Filed electronically with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
February 29, 2000
File No. 33-5724
File No. 811-4670
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
FORM N-1A
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
Pre-Effective Amendment No.
----
Post-Effective Amendment No. 43
----
and
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940
Amendment No. 46
----
Global/International Fund, Inc.
-------------------------------
(Exact name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)
345 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10154
----------------------------- -----
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's Telephone Number, including Area Code: (617) 295-2567
--------------
Caroline Pearson
Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc.
Two International Place, Boston, MA 02110
-----------------------------------------
(Name and Address of Agent for Service)
It is proposed that this filing will become effective
Immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b)
-------
on ___________ pursuant to paragraph (b)
-------
X 60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)
-------
on ___________ pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)
-------
75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)
-------
On ___________ pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of Rule 485
-------
If appropriate, check the following:
------- this post-effective amendment designates a new effective
date for a previously filed post-effective amendment
<PAGE>
GLOBAL/INTERNATIONAL FUND, INC.
Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund
Global Discovery Fund
Kemper Global Discovery Fund
Scudder Global Bond Fund
Scudder International Bond Fund
2
<PAGE>
SCUDDER INVESTMENTS(SM)
[LOGO]
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
BOND/GLOBAL
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scudder Global/International
Income Funds
Scudder Global
Bond Fund Fund #061
Scudder Emerging Markets
Income Fund Fund #076
Prospectus
March 1, 2000
As with all mutual funds, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) does not
approve or disapprove these shares or determine whether the information in this
prospectus is truthful or complete. It is a criminal offense for anyone to
inform you otherwise.
<PAGE>
Scudder Global/International Income Funds
How the funds work
2 Global Bond Fund
6 Emerging Markets Income Fund
11 Other Policies and Risks
13 Who Manages and Oversees the Funds
16 Financial Highlights
How to invest in the funds
19 How to Buy Shares
20 How to Exchange or Sell Shares
21 Policies You Should Know About
26 Understanding Distributions and Taxes
<PAGE>
How the funds work
These funds invest mainly in foreign bonds as a way of seeking current income
and, secondarily, capital growth. Each fund follows its own goal.
Remember that mutual funds are investments, not bank deposits. They're not
insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency, and you could
lose money by investing in them.
You can access all Scudder fund prospectuses online at: www.scuder.com
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ticker symbol | SSTGX fund number | 061
Scudder Global Bond Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Approach
The fund seeks total return, with an emphasis on current income; capital
appreciation is a secondary goal. It does this by investing at least 65% of
total assets in high quality bonds of issuers from around the world, including
the United States. The fund can buy many types of income-producing securities,
among them U.S. and foreign government bonds, corporate bonds and mortgage- and
asset-backed securities.
In making their buy and sell decisions, the managers typically consider a number
of factors, such as currency and economic outlooks, credit quality, possible
interest rate movements, security characteristics and changes in supply and
demand within the global bond markets.
In choosing individual bonds, the managers use independent analysis to look for
bonds that have attractive yields and show improving credit. The managers
prefer, but may not exclusively invest in, bonds that are denominated in stable
or strengthening currencies.
The managers may favor different types of securities at different times, while
still maintaining variety in terms of the countries, issuers and types of
securities represented.
Although the managers may adjust the fund's duration (a measure of sensitivity
to interest rate movements), they generally intend to keep it between 4 and 6
years. To a more limited extent, the fund may utilize various types of
derivatives (contracts whose value is based on, for example, indices, currencies
or securities).
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CREDIT QUALITY POLICIES
This fund normally invests at least 65% of total assets in intermediate- and
long-term bonds of the top two grades of credit quality, and at least 15% of
total assets in dollar-denominated securities.
The fund could put up to 15% of net assets in junk bonds as low as the fourth
credit grade (i.e., grade BB/Ba). Compared to investment-grade bonds, junk bonds
may pay higher yields and have higher volatility and risk of default.
2 | Scudder Global Bond Fund
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] Investors who want exposure to global bond markets with a portfolio of
high quality securities may be interested in this fund.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Main Risks to Investors
There are several risk factors that could hurt the fund's performance, cause you
to lose money or make the fund perform less well than other investments.
As with most bond funds, the most important factor is market interest rates --
in this case, global interest rates. A rise in interest rates generally means a
fall in bond prices and, in turn, a fall in the value of your investment. (As a
rule, a 1% rise in interest rates means a 1% fall in value for every year of
duration.) An increase in its duration would make the fund more sensitive to
this risk. Foreign bonds tend to be more volatile than their U.S. counterparts,
for reasons ranging from political and economic uncertainties to a higher risk
that essential information may be incomplete or wrong. Because the fund isn't
diversified and can invest a larger percentage of assets in a given issuer than
a diversified fund, factors affecting that issuer could affect fund performance.
When the dollar value of a foreign currency falls, so does the value of any
investments the fund owns that are denominated in that currency. This is
separate from market risk, and may add to market losses or reduce market gains.
Other factors that could affect performance include:
o the managers could be wrong in their analysis of economic trends,
geographical areas, industries, issuers or other matters
o a bond could decline in credit quality or go into default; this risk is
greater with junk and foreign bonds
o some types of bonds could be paid off substantially earlier than expected,
which would hurt fund performance; with mortgage- or asset-backed
securities, any unexpected behavior in interest rates could hurt
performance and increase the volatility
o derivatives could produce disproportionate losses
o at times, market conditions might make it hard to value some investments or
to get an attractive price for them
Scudder Global Bond Fund | 3
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] While a fund's past performance isn't necessarily a sign of how it will
do in the future, it can be valuable for an investor to know. This page
looks at fund performance two different ways: year by year and over
time.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Fund's Track Record
The bar chart shows how fund returns have varied from year to year, which may
give some idea of risk. The table shows average annual total returns for the
fund and a broad-based market index (which, unlike the fund, does not have any
fees or expenses). The performance of both the fund and the index varies over
time. All figures on this page assume reinvestment of dividends and
distributions.
THE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT CONTAINS A BAR CHART HERE
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31 each year
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
'92 5.49
'93 6.74
'94 -1.13
'95 7.74
'96 3.11
'97 0.37
'98 11.45
'99 -4.07
Best Quarter: 5.23%, Q3 1998 Worst Quarter: -4.19%, Q1 1997
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31/1999
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 Year 5 Years Since Inception*
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fund -4.07 3.58 4.31
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index -4.27 6.42 7.45
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index: Salomon Brothers World Government Bond Index, an unmanaged index of
worldwide fixed-rate government bonds with remaining maturities greater than one
year. Prior to 12/27/1995, the Salomon Brothers Currency-Hedged World Government
Bond Index (1-3 years) was used as a comparative index.
* Fund Inception: 3/1/1991. Index comparison begins 3/1/1991.
On 12/27/1995, the fund changed from a short term global income fund to its
current goal and strategy. Performance before that date would have been
different had the current goal and strategy been in effect.
In the chart, total returns from 1992 through 1999 would have been lower if
operating expenses hadn't been reduced.
In the table, total returns from inception through 1999 would have been lower if
operating expenses hadn't been reduced.
4 | Scudder Global Bond Fund
<PAGE>
How Much Investors Pay
This fund has no sales charge or other shareholder fees. The fund does have
annual operating expenses, and as a shareholder you pay them indirectly.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fee Table
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Fees (paid directly from your investment) None
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Operating Expenses (deducted from fund assets)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Management Fee 0.75%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution (12b-1) Fee None
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Expenses* 0.66%
-------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-------
Total Annual Operating Expenses 1.41%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expense Reimbursement 0.16%
-------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Annual Operating Expenses** 1.25%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Includes costs of shareholder servicing, custody, accounting services
and similar expenses, which may vary with fund size and other factors.
** By contract, total annual operating expenses are capped at 1.25%
through 2/28/2001.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expense Example
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This example is designed to help you compare this fund's expenses to those of
other funds. The example assumes the expenses above remain the same, and
includes one year of capped expenses in each period. It also assumes that you
invested $10,000, earned 5% annual returns, reinvested all dividends and
distributions and sold your shares at the end of each period. This is only an
example; your actual expenses will be different.
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$127 $431 $756 $1,677
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scudder Global Bond Fund | 5
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ticker symbol | SCEMX fund number | 076
Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Approach
The fund seeks to provide high current income and, secondarily, long-term
capital appreciation. It does this by investing at least 65% of total assets in
high yield bonds and other debt securities issued by governments and
corporations in emerging market countries. Historically, the managers have
tended to emphasize Latin America, but may also invest in Asia, Africa, the
Middle East and Eastern Europe. To help manage risk, the fund invests at least
65% of total assets in dollar-denominated securities. The fund also does not
invest more than 40% of total assets in any one country. The fund may invest up
to 35% of total assets in debt securities from developed markets and up to 20%
of total assets in U.S. debt securities including those that are rated below
investment-grade.
In making their buy and sell decisions, the managers typically consider a number
of factors, including economic and currency outlooks, interest rate movements,
capital flows, debt levels, inflation trends, credit quality of issuers,
security characteristics and changes in supply and demand within global bond
markets.
In choosing individual bonds, the managers use independent analysis to look for
bonds that have attractive yields and show improving credit. The managers prefer
bonds that are denominated in stable or strengthening currencies, but may invest
in bonds denominated in other currencies if deemed attractive.
The managers may favor different types of securities at different times, while
still maintaining variety in terms of the countries, issuers and types of
securities represented.
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CREDIT QUALITY POLICIES
This fund normally invests at least 65% of total assets in junk bonds, which are
those below the fourth credit grade (i.e., grade BB/Ba and below). Compared to
investment-grade bonds, junk bonds may pay higher yields and have higher
volatility and risk of default. The fund may invest up to 5% of net assets in
bonds of grade D/C, which are usually in default.
The fund may invest up to 35% of total assets in investment grade bonds, but
normally invests less in them.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6 | Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund
<PAGE>
Although the managers may adjust the fund's duration (a measure of sensitivity
to interest rate movements), they generally intend to keep it between 2.5 and
5.5 years. Also, while they're permitted to use various types of derivatives
(contracts whose value is based on, for example, indices, currencies or
securities), the managers don't intend to use them as principal investments and
might not use them at all.
Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund | 7
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] This fund may be appropriate for investors who understand the risks of
high yield bonds and want exposure to emerging markets.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Main Risks to Investors
There are several risk factors that could hurt the fund's performance, cause you
to lose money or make the fund perform less well than other investments.
For this fund, the main factor is the economies in the emerging markets it
invests in. Because issuers of high yield bonds may be in uncertain financial
health, high yield bond prices can be vulnerable to bad economic news, or even
the expectation of bad news. This may affect a company, industry, country,
region or the high yield market as a whole. In some cases, bonds may decline in
credit quality or go into default. Emerging markets bonds tend to be
significantly more volatile then their U.S. counterparts, for reasons ranging
from political and economic uncertainties to a higher risk that essential
information may be incomplete or wrong.
A second major factor is market interest rates. A rise in interest rates
generally means a fall in bond prices and, in turn, a fall in the value of your
investment. An increase in its duration would make the fund more sensitive to
this risk.
Because the fund isn't diversified and can invest a larger percentage of assets
in a given issuer than a diversified fund, factors affecting that issuer could
affect fund performance. Similarly, if the fund emphasizes a given market, such
as Latin America, factors affecting that market will affect performance.
Other factors that could affect performance include:
o the managers could be wrong in their analysis of economic trends,
geographical areas, industries, issuers or other matters
o currency fluctuations could cause non-dollar denominated investments to
lose value
o at times, market conditions might make it hard to value some investments or
to get an attractive price for them
o derivatives could produce disproportionate losses
8 | Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] While a fund's past performance isn't necessarily a sign of how it will
do in the future, it can be valuable for an investor to know. This page
looks at fund performance two different ways: year by year and over
time.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Fund's Track Record
The bar chart shows how fund returns have varied from year to year, which may
give some idea of risk. The table shows average annual total returns for the
fund and a broad-based market index (which, unlike the fund, does not have any
fees or expenses). The performance of both the fund and the index varies over
time. All figures on this page assume reinvestment of dividends and
distributions.
THE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT CONTAINS A BAR CHART HERE
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31 each year
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
'94 -8.06
'95 19.48
'96 34.55
'97 13.12
'98 -30.30
'99 22.71
Best Quarter: 14.64%, Q2 1995 Worst Quarter: -33.73%, Q3 1998
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31/1999
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 Year 5 Years Since Inception*
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fund 22.71 9.24 6.14
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index 25.97 16.58 9.73
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index: J.P. Morgan Emerging Markets Bond Index Plus (EMBI+), an unmanaged index
that tracks total returns for emerging market debt instruments that trade
outside the country of issue.
In the chart, total returns from 1994 through 1996 would have been lower if
operating expenses hadn't been reduced.
In the table, total returns from the date of inception through 1996 would have
been lower if operating expenses hadn't been reduced.
* Fund inception: 12/31/1993. Index comparison begins 1/1/1994.
Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund | 9
<PAGE>
How Much Investors Pay
This fund has no sales charges or other shareholder fees. The fund does have
annual operating expenses and as a shareholder you pay them indirectly.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fee Table
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Fees (paid directly from your investment) None
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Operating Expenses (deducted from fund assets)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Management Fee 1.00%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution (12b-1) Fee None
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Expenses* 0.75%
-------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Annual Operating Expenses 1.75%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Includes costs of shareholder servicing, custody, accounting services and
similar expenses, which may vary with fund size and other factors.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expense Example
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This example is designed to help you compare this fund's expenses to those of
other funds. The example assumes the expenses above remain the same. It also
assumes that you invested $10,000, earned 5% annual returns, reinvested all
dividends and distributions and sold your shares at the end of each period. This
is only an example; your actual expenses will be different.
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$178 $551 $949 $2,062
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
10 | Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund
<PAGE>
Other Policies and Risks
While the fund-by-fund sections on the previous pages describe the main points
of each fund's strategy and risks, there are a few other issues to know about:
o Although major changes tend to be infrequent, a fund's Board could change
that fund's investment goal without seeking shareholder approval.
o As a temporary defensive measure, either of these funds could shift up to
100% of their assets into investments such as money market securities. This
could prevent losses, but would mean that the fund was not pursuing its
goal.
o These funds may trade more securities than some other bond funds. This
could raise transaction costs (and lower performance) and could mean higher
taxable distributions.
o The investment adviser to the funds measures credit quality at the time it
buys securities, using independent ratings or, for unrated securities, its
own credit analysis. If a security's credit quality changes, the portfolio
managers will decide what to do with the security, based on their
assessment of what would benefit shareholders most.
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FOR MORE INFORMATION
This prospectus doesn't tell you about every policy or risk of investing in the
funds.
If you want more information on the funds' allowable securities and investment
practices and the characteristics and risks of each one, you may want to request
a copy of the Statement of Additional Information (the back cover tells you how
to do this).
Keep in mind that there is no assurance that any mutual fund will achieve its
goal.
Other Policies and Risks | 11
<PAGE>
Euro conversion
Funds which invest in foreign securities could be affected by accounting
differences, changes in tax treatment or other issues related to the conversion
of certain European currencies into the euro, which is already underway. The
investment adviser is working to address euro-related issues as they occur and
has been notified that other key service providers are taking similar steps.
Still, there's some risk that this problem could materially affect a fund's
operation (including its ability to calculate net asset value and to handle
purchases and redemptions), its investments or securities markets in general.
12 | Other Policies and Risks
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] Scudder Kemper, the company with overall responsibility for managing
the funds, takes a team approach to asset management.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Who Manages and Oversees the Funds
The investment adviser
The funds' investment adviser is Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc., 345 Park
Avenue, New York, NY. Scudder Kemper has more than 80 years of experience
managing mutual funds, and currently has more than $290 billion in assets under
management.
Each fund is managed by a team of investment professionals, who individually
represent different areas of expertise and who together develop investment
strategies and make buy and sell decisions. Supporting the fund managers are
Scudder Kemper's many economists, research analysts, traders and other
investment specialists, located in offices across the United States and around
the world.
As payment for serving as investment adviser, Scudder Kemper receives a
management fee from each fund. Below are the actual rates paid by each fund for
the 12 months through the most recent fiscal year end, as a percentage of
average daily net assets.
Fund Fee Paid
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scudder Global Bond Fund 0.50%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund 1.00%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Who Manages and Oversees the Funds | 13
<PAGE>
The portfolio managers
The following people handle the day-to-day management of each fund in this
prospectus.
Scudder Global Bond Fund Scudder Emerging Markets
Income Fund
Jan C. Faller
Lead Portfolio Manager Susan E. Dahl
o Began investment career in 1988 Lead Portfolio Manager
o Joined the adviser in 1999 o Began investment career in 1987
o Joined the fund team in 1999 o Joined the adviser in 1987
o Joined the fund team in 1994
Jeremy L. Ragus
o Began investment career in 1981 M. Isabel Saltzman
o Joined the adviser in 1990 o Began investment career in 1979
o Joined the fund team in 1999 o Joined the adviser in 1990
o Joined the fund team in 1993
14 | Who Manages and Oversees the Funds
<PAGE>
The Board
A mutual fund's Board is responsible for the general oversight of the fund's
business. The majority of the Board is not affiliated with Scudder Kemper. The
independent members have primary responsibility for assuring that each fund is
managed in the best interests of its shareholders. The following people comprise
each fund's Board.
Directors Honorary Directors
Sheryle J. Bolton Paul Bancroft III
o Chief Executive Officer, o Venture Capitalist and
Scientific Learning Corporation Consultant
William T. Burgin Thomas J. Devine
o General Partner, Bessemer o Consultant
Venture Partners
William H. Gleysteen, Jr.
Keith R. Fox o Consultant
o Private equity investor o Guest Scholar, Brookings
Institution
William H. Luers
o Chairman and President, U.N. Robert G. Stone, Jr.
Association of America o Chairman Emeritus and
Director, Kirby Corporation
Kathryn L. Quirk
o Managing Director,
Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc.
Joan E. Spero
o President, Doris Duke
Charitable Foundation
Who Manages and Oversees the Funds | 15
<PAGE>
Financial Highlights
These tables are designed to help you understand each fund's financial
performance in recent years. The figures in the first part of each table are for
a single share. The total return figures represent the percentage that an
investor in a particular fund would have earned (or lost), assuming all
dividends and distributions were reinvested. This information has been audited
by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, whose report, along with each fund's financial
statements, is included in that fund's annual report (see "Shareholder reports"
on the back cover).
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Scudder Global Bond Fund
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years Ended October 31, 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value, beginning of period $ 9.92 $ 9.71 $10.25 $10.53 $10.78
-------------------------------------------
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income (loss) from investment operations:
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income .49 .62 .59 .67 .80
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) (.58) .21 (.54) (.28) (.25)
on investment transactions
-------------------------------------------
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations (.09) .83 .05 .39 .55
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less distributions from:
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (.33) (.60) (.14) (.42) (.36)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tax return of capital (.16) (.02) (.45) (.25) (.44)
-------------------------------------------
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total distributions (.49) (.62) (.59) (.67) (.80)
Net asset value, end of period $ 9.34 $ 9.92 $ 9.71 $10.25 $10.53
-------------------------------------------
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Return (%) (a) (.99) 8.91 0.66 3.97 5.43
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios and Supplemental Data
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets, end of period ($ millions) 85 108 135 217 357
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of operating expenses, before 1.41 1.48 1.39 1.28 1.20
expense reductions, to average daily net
assets (%)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of operating expenses, net, to 1.16 1.00 1.00 1.00 1.00
average daily net assets (%)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of net investment income to 5.04 6.43 6.00 6.67 7.73
average daily net assets (%)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 148.5 218.3 256.5 335.7 182.8
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(a) Total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced.
On December 27, 1995, the Fund adopted its current name and objectives.
Prior to that date, the fund was known as the Scudder Short Term Global
Income Fund and its investment objective was to provide high current income
through short-term instruments. Financial information prior to December 27,
1995 should not be considered representative of the present fund.
16 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years Ended October 31, 1999(a) 1998(a) 1997(a) 1996(a) 1995
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value, beginning of period $ 7.04 $12.22 $12.98 $10.26 $11.05
-------------------------------------------
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income .63 1.04 1.06 1.20 1.14
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) .49 (3.71) .46 2.71 (.82)
on investments
-------------------------------------------
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations 1.12 (2.67) 1.52 3.91 .32
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less distributions:
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From net investment income (.64) (1.01) (1.10) (1.19) (1.11)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From net realized gains on investment -- (1.50) (1.18) -- --
transactions
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From tax return on capital (.06) -- -- -- --
-------------------------------------------
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total distributions (.70) (2.51) (2.28) (1.19) (1.11)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $ 7.46 $ 7.04 $12.22 $12.98 $10.26
-------------------------------------------
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Return (%) 16.70 (27.60) 12.34 39.78(b) 3.46(b)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios and Supplemental Data
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets, end of period ($ millions) 192 214 324 305 169
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of operating expenses to average 1.75 1.56 1.49 1.44 1.50
daily net assets (%)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of net investment income to 8.82 9.97 8.03 10.05 12.83
average daily net assets (%)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 326.8 239.7 409.5 430.0 302.2
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(a) Based on monthly average shares outstanding during the period.
(b) Total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced.
Financial Highlights | 17
<PAGE>
How to invest in the funds
The following pages tell you how to invest in these funds and what to expect as
a shareholder. If you're investing directly with Scudder, all of this
information applies to you.
If you're investing through a "third party provider" -- for example, a workplace
retirement plan, financial supermarket or financial adviser -- your provider may
have its own policies or instructions, and you should follow those.
<PAGE>
How to Buy Shares
Use these instructions to invest directly with Scudder. Make out your check to
"The Scudder Funds."
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
First investment Additional investments
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
$2,500 or more for regular $100 or more for regular
accounts accounts
$1,000 or more for IRAs $50 or more for IRAs
$50 or more with an Automatic
Investment Plan
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By mail or express o Fill out and sign an o Send a check and a Scudder
(see below) application investment slip to us at the
appropriate address below
o Send it to us at the
appropriate address, along o If you don't have an
with an investment check investment slip, simply include
a letter with your name,
account number, the full
name of the fund and your
investment instructions
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By wire o Call 1-800-SCUDDER for o Call 1-800-SCUDDER for
instructions instructions
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By phone -- o Call 1-800-SCUDDER for
instructions
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
With an automatic -- o To set up regular investments
investment from a bank checking account,
plan call 1-800-SCUDDER
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Using -- o Call 1-800-SCUDDER
QuickBuy
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] Regular mail:
The Scudder Funds, PO Box 2291, Boston, MA 02107-2291
Express, registered or certified mail:
The Scudder Funds, 66 Brooks Drive, Braintree, MA 02184-3839
Fax number: 1-800-821-6234 (for exchanging and selling only)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
How to Buy Shares | 19
<PAGE>
How to Exchange or Sell Shares
Use these instructions to exchange or sell shares in an account opened directly
with Scudder.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exchanging into another fund Selling shares
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
$2,500 or more to open a new Some transactions, including
account ($1,000 for IRAs) most for over $100,000, can
only be ordered in writing; if
$100 or more for exchanges you're in doubt, see page 23
between existing accounts
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By phone or wire o Call 1-800-SCUDDER for o Call 1-800-SCUDDER for
instructions instructions
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Using SAIL(TM) o Call 1-800- 343-2890 and o Call 1-800-343-2890 and
follow the instructions follow the instructions
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By mail, Write a letter that includes: Write a letter that includes:
express or fax
(see previous o the fund, class and account o the fund, class and account
page) number you're exchanging number from which you want to
out of sell shares
o the dollar amount or number o the dollar amount or number
of shares you want to exchange of shares you want to sell
o the name and class of the o your name(s), signature(s)
fund you want to exchange into and address, as they appear on
your account
o your name(s), signature(s)
and address, as they appear on o a daytime telephone number
your account
o a daytime telephone number
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
With an automatic -- o To set up regular cash
withdrawal payments from a Scudder
plan account, call 1-800-SCUDDER
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Using -- o Call 1-800-SCUDDER
QuickSell
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
20 | How to Exchange or Sell Shares
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] Questions? You can speak to a Scudder representative between 8 a.m. and
8 p.m. eastern time on any fund business day by calling 1-800-SCUDDER.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Policies You Should Know About
Along with the instructions on the previous pages, the policies below may affect
you as a shareholder. Some of this information, such as the section on dividends
and taxes, applies to all investors, including those investing through
investment providers.
If you are investing through an investment provider, check the materials you got
from them. As a general rule, you should follow the information in those
materials wherever it contradicts the information given here. Please note that
an investment provider may charge its own fees.
Policies about transactions
The funds are open for business each day the New York Stock Exchange is open.
Each fund calculates its share price every business day, as of the close of
regular trading on the Exchange (typically 4 p.m. eastern time, but sometimes
earlier, as in the case of scheduled half-day trading or unscheduled suspensions
of trading).
You can place an order to buy or sell shares at any time. Once your order is
received by Scudder Service Corporation, and they have determined that it is a
"good order," it will be processed at the next share price calculated.
Because orders placed through investment providers must be forwarded to Scudder
Service Corporation before they can be processed, you'll need to allow extra
time. A representative of your investment provider should be able to tell you
when your order will be processed.
Policies You Should Know About | 21
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] The Scudder Web site can be a valuable resource for shareholders with
Internet access. Go to www.scudder.com to get up-to-date information,
review balances or even place orders for exchanges.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SAIL(TM), the Scudder Automated Information Line, is available 24 hours a day by
calling 1-800-343-2890. You can use SAIL to get information on Scudder funds
generally and on accounts held directly at Scudder. You can also use it to make
exchanges and sell shares.
QuickBuy and QuickSell let you set up a link between a Scudder account and a
bank account. Once this link is in place, you can move money between the two
with a phone call. You'll need to make sure your bank has Automated Clearing
House (ACH) services. To set up QuickBuy or QuickSell on a new account, see the
account application; to add it to an existing account, call 1-800-SCUDDER.
When you call us to sell shares, we may record the call, ask you for certain
information, or take other steps designed to prevent fraudulent orders. It's
important to understand that as long as we take reasonable steps to ensure that
an order appears genuine, we are not responsible for any losses that may occur.
When you ask us to send or receive a wire, please note that while we don't
charge a fee to receive wires, we will deduct a $5 fee from all wires sent from
us to your bank. Your bank may charge its own fees for handling wires. The funds
can only accept wires of $100 or more.
Exchanges among Scudder funds are an option for shareholders who bought their
fund shares directly from Scudder and many other investors as well. Exchanges
are a shareholder privilege, not a right: we may reject any exchange order,
particularly when there appears to be a pattern of "market timing" or other
frequent purchases and sales. We may also reject purchase orders, for these or
other reasons.
22 | Policies You Should Know About
<PAGE>
When you want to sell more than $100,000 worth of shares, you'll usually need to
place your order in writing and include a signature guarantee. The only
exception is if you want money wired to a bank account that is already on file
with us; in that case, you don't need a signature guarantee. Also, you don't
need a signature guarantee for an exchange, although we may require one in
certain other circumstances.
A signature guarantee is simply a certification of your signature -- a valuable
safeguard against fraud. You can get a signature guarantee from most brokers,
banks, savings institutions and credit unions. Note that you can't get a
signature guarantee from a notary public.
Money from shares you sell is normally sent out within one business day of when
your order is processed (not when it is received), although it could be delayed
for up to seven days. There are also two circumstances when it could be longer:
when you are selling shares you bought recently by check and that check hasn't
cleared yet (maximum delay: 15 days) or when unusual circumstances prompt the
SEC to allow further delays.
Policies You Should Know About | 23
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] If you ever have difficulty placing an order by phone or fax, you can
always send us your order in writing.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
How the funds calculate share prices
Each fund's share price is its net asset value per share, or NAV. To calculate
NAV, the funds use the following equation:
TOTAL ASSETS - TOTAL LIABILITIES
---------------------------------- = NAV
TOTAL NUMBER OF SHARES OUTSTANDING
We typically use market prices to value securities. However, when a market price
isn't available, or when we have reason to believe it doesn't represent market
realities, we may use fair value methods approved by a fund's Board. In such a
case, the fund's value for a security is likely to be different from quoted
market prices.
Because the funds invest in securities that are traded primarily in foreign
markets, the value of their holdings could change at a time when you aren't able
to buy or sell fund shares. This is because some foreign markets are open on
days when the funds don't price their shares.
24 | Policies You Should Know About
<PAGE>
Other rights we reserve
You should be aware that we may do any of the following:
o withhold 31% of your distributions as federal income tax if you have been
notified by the IRS that you are subject to backup withholding, or if you
fail to provide us with a correct taxpayer ID number or certification that
you are exempt from backup withholding
o charge you $10 a year if your account balance falls below $2,500, and close
your account and send you the proceeds if your balance falls below $1,000;
in either case, we will give you 60 days' notice so you can either increase
your balance or close your account (these policies don't apply to
retirement accounts, to investors with $100,000 or more in Scudder fund
shares or in any case where a fall in share price created the low balance)
o reject a new account application if you don't provide a correct Social
Security or other tax ID number; if the account has already been opened, we
may give you 30 days' notice to provide the correct number
o pay you for shares you sell by "redeeming in kind," that is, by giving you
marketable securities (which typically will involve brokerage costs for you
to liquidate) rather than cash; generally, the fund won't make a redemption
in kind unless your requests over a 90-day period total more than $250,000
or 1% of the value of the fund's net assets, whichever is less
o change, add or withdraw various services, fees and account policies (for
example, we may change or terminate the exchange privilege at any time)
Policies You Should Know About | 25
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] Because each shareholder's tax situation is unique, it's always a good
idea to ask your tax professional about the tax consequences of your
investments, including any state and local tax consequences.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Understanding Distributions and Taxes
By law, a mutual fund is required to pass through to its shareholders virtually
all of its net earnings. A fund can earn money in two ways: by receiving
interest, dividends or other income from securities it holds, and by selling
securities for more than it paid for them. (A fund's earnings are separate from
any gains or losses stemming from your own purchase of shares.) A fund may not
always pay a distribution for a given period.
Scudder Global Bond Fund has a regular schedule for paying out any earnings to
shareholders:
o Income and short-term capital gains: declared daily and paid monthly
o Long-term capital gains: December, or otherwise as needed
Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund intends to pay dividends and distributions
to its shareholders quarterly in March, June, September and December.
You can choose how to receive your dividends and distributions. You can have
them all automatically reinvested in fund shares or all sent to you by check.
Tell us your preference on your application. If you don't indicate a preference,
your dividends and distributions will all be reinvested. For retirement plans,
reinvestment is the only option.
Buying and selling fund shares will usually have tax consequences for you
(except in an IRA or other tax-advantaged account). Your sales of shares may
result in a capital gain or loss for you; whether long-term or short-term
depends on how long you owned the shares. For tax purposes, an exchange is the
same as a sale.
26 | Understanding Distributions and Taxes
<PAGE>
The tax status of the fund earnings you receive, and your own fund transactions,
generally depends on their type:
Generally taxed at ordinary income rates
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
o short-term capital gains from selling fund shares
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
o taxable income dividends you receive from a fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
o short-term capital gains distributions you receive from a fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Generally taxed at capital gains rates
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
o long-term capital gains from selling fund shares
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
o long-term capital gains distributions you receive from a fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
You may be able to claim a tax credit or deduction for your share of any foreign
taxes that each fund pays.
Each fund will send you detailed tax information every January. These statements
tell you the amount and the tax category of any dividends or distributions you
received. They also have certain details on your purchases and sales of shares.
The tax status of dividends and distributions is the same whether you reinvest
them or not. Dividends or distributions declared in the last quarter of a given
year are taxed in that year, even though you may not receive the money until the
following January.
If you invest right before a fund pays a dividend, you'll be getting some of
your investment back as a taxable dividend. You can avoid this, if you want, by
investing after the fund declares a dividend. In tax-advantaged retirement
accounts you don't need to worry about this.
Understanding Distributions and Taxes | 27
<PAGE>
Notes
<PAGE>
Notes
<PAGE>
To Get More Information
Shareholder reports -- These include commentary from each fund's management team
about recent market conditions and the effects of a fund's strategies on its
performance. For each fund, they also have detailed performance figures, a list
of everything the fund owns and the fund's financial statements. Shareholders
get these reports automatically. To reduce costs, we may mail one copy per
household. For more copies, call 1-800-SCUDDER.
Statement of Additional Information (SAI) -- This tells you more about each
fund's features and policies, including additional risk information. The SAI is
incorporated by reference into this document (meaning that it's legally part of
this prospectus).
If you'd like to ask for copies of these documents, or if you're a shareholder
and have questions, please contact Scudder or the SEC (see below). Materials you
get from Scudder are free; those from the SEC involve a copying fee. If you
like, you can look over these materials at the SEC's Public Reference Room in
Washington, DC or request them electronically at [email protected].
Scudder Funds SEC
PO Box 2291 450 Fifth Street, N.W.
Boston, MA 02107-2291 Washington, DC 20549-6009
1-800-SCUDDER 1-202-942-8090
www.scudder.com www.sec.gov
Fund Name SEC File #
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scudder Global Bond Fund 811-4670
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund 811-4670
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
SCUDDER GLOBAL BOND FUND
A series of Global/International Fund, Inc.
A Non-Diversified Mutual Fund Series
which Seeks Total Return with an Emphasis on Current Income
by Investing Principally in high-grade Bonds Denominated
in Foreign Currencies and the U.S. Dollar
and, Secondarily, Capital Appreciation
and
SCUDDER EMERGING MARKETS INCOME FUND
A series of Global/International Fund, Inc.
A Non-Diversified Mutual Fund Series which Seeks
High Current Income and, Secondarily,
Long-Term Capital Appreciation through Investment
Primarily in High-Yielding Debt Securities
Issued in Emerging Markets
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
March 1, 2000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This combined Statement of Additional Information is not a prospectus
and should be read in conjunction with the combined prospectus of Scudder Global
Bond Fund and Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund dated March 1, 2000, as
amended from time to time, a copy of which may be obtained without charge by
writing to Scudder Investor Services, Inc., Two International Place, Boston,
Massachusetts 02110-4103.
Each Annual Report to Shareholders for Scudder Global Bond Fund and
Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund dated October 31, 1999, is incorporated by
reference and is hereby deemed to be part of this Statement of Additional
Information.
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Page
<S> <C>
THE FUNDS' INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES............................................................1
General Investment Objective and Policies of Global Bond Fund...................................1
General Investment Objectives and Policies of Emerging Markets Income Fund......................2
Master/feeder structure.........................................................................4
Special Investment Considerations of the Funds..................................................4
Investments and Investment Techniques...........................................................6
Investment Restrictions........................................................................29
PURCHASES...............................................................................................30
Additional Information About Opening An Account................................................30
Minimum balances...............................................................................30
Additional Information About Making Subsequent Investments by Telephone
Order..........................................................................................31
Additional Information About Making Subsequent Investments by QuickBuy.........................31
Checks.........................................................................................32
Wire Transfer of Federal Funds.................................................................32
Share Price....................................................................................32
Share Certificates.............................................................................32
Other Information..............................................................................32
EXCHANGES AND REDEMPTIONS...............................................................................33
Exchanges......................................................................................33
Redemption by Telephone........................................................................34
Redemption by QuickSell........................................................................34
Redemption by Mail or Fax......................................................................35
Redemption-in-Kind.............................................................................35
Other Information..............................................................................36
FEATURES AND SERVICES OFFERED BY THE FUNDS..............................................................36
The No-Load Concept(TM)........................................................................36
Internet access................................................................................37
Dividends and Capital Gains Distribution Options...............................................37
Reports to Shareholders........................................................................38
Transaction Summaries..........................................................................38
THE SCUDDER FAMILY OF FUNDS.............................................................................38
SPECIAL PLAN ACCOUNTS...................................................................................40
Scudder Retirement Plans: Profit-Sharing and Money Purchase Pension Plans for
Corporations and Self-Employed Individuals...................................................40
Scudder 401(k): Cash or Deferred Profit-Sharing Plan for Corporations and
Self-Employed
Individuals..................................................................................40
Scudder IRA: Individual Retirement Account....................................................41
Scudder Roth IRA: Individual Retirement Account...............................................41
Scudder 403(b) Plan............................................................................42
Automatic Withdrawal Plan......................................................................42
Group or Salary Deduction Plan.................................................................42
Automatic Investment Plan......................................................................42
Uniform Transfers/Gifts to Minors Act..........................................................43
DIVIDENDS AND CAPITAL GAINS DISTRIBUTIONS...............................................................43
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION.................................................................................43
Average Annual Total Return....................................................................43
Cumulative Total Return........................................................................44
Total Return...................................................................................45
Yield of Emerging Markets Income Fund..........................................................45
Comparison of Fund Performance.................................................................45
ORGANIZATION OF THE FUNDS...............................................................................47
i
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued)
Page
INVESTMENT ADVISER......................................................................................48
Personal Investments by Employees of the Adviser...............................................50
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS..................................................................................51
REMUNERATION............................................................................................54
Responsibilities of the Board-- Board and Committee Meetings ..................................54
Compensation of Officers and Directors.........................................................54
DISTRIBUTOR.............................................................................................55
TAXES ...............................................................................................56
PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS..................................................................................60
Brokerage Commissions..........................................................................60
Portfolio Turnover.............................................................................61
NET ASSET VALUE.........................................................................................61
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION..................................................................................62
Experts........................................................................................62
Other Information..............................................................................62
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS....................................................................................64
Global Bond Fund...............................................................................64
Emerging Markets Income Fund...................................................................63
APPENDIX
</TABLE>
ii
<PAGE>
THE FUNDS' INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
On May 29, 1998, the name "Scudder Global Fund, Inc." was changed to
"Global/International Fund, Inc." Global/International Fund, Inc., a Maryland
corporation of which Scudder Global Bond Fund ("Global Bond Fund") and Scudder
Emerging Markets Income Fund ("Emerging Markets Income Fund") are no-load,
non-diversified series, is referred to herein as the "Corporation." These series
sometimes are jointly referred to herein as the "Funds." The Corporation is an
open-end, management investment company, which continuously offers and redeems
its shares. The Corporation is a company of the type commonly known as a mutual
fund.
Descriptions in this Statement of Additional Information of a
particular investment practice or technique in which a Fund may engage (such as
short selling, hedging, etc.) or a financial instrument which a Fund may
purchase (such as options, forward foreign currency contracts, etc.) are meant
to describe the spectrum of investments that Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc.
(the "Adviser"), in its discretion, might, but is not required to, use in
managing each Fund's portfolio assets. The Adviser may, in its discretion, at
any time employ such practice, technique or instrument for one or more funds but
not for all funds advised by it. Furthermore, it is possible that certain types
of financial instruments or investment techniques described herein may not be
available, permissible, economically feasible or effective for their intended
purposes in all markets. Certain practices, techniques, or instruments may not
be principal activities of a Fund but, to the extent employed, could from time
to time have a material impact on the Fund's performance.
Except as otherwise indicated, each Fund's objectives and policies are
not fundamental and may be changed without a shareholder vote. There can be no
assurance that a Fund will achieve its objectives.
Changes in portfolio securities are made on the basis of investment
considerations, and it is against the policy of management to make changes for
trading purposes.
General Investment Objective and Policies of Global Bond Fund
Global Bond Fund may provide investors with a convenient way to invest
in a managed portfolio of debt securities denominated in foreign currencies and
the U.S. dollar. The Fund's objective is to provide total return with an
emphasis on current income by investing primarily in high-grade bonds
denominated in foreign currencies and the U.S.
dollar. As a secondary objective, the Fund will seek capital appreciation.
To achieve its objectives, the Fund will invest principally in a
managed portfolio of high-grade intermediate- and long-term bonds denominated in
the U.S. dollar and foreign currencies, including bonds denominated in the
European Currency Unit (ECU). (Intermediate-term bonds generally have maturities
between three and eight years and long-term bonds generally have maturities of
greater than eight years.) Portfolio investments will be selected on the basis
of, among other things, yields, credit quality, and the fundamental outlooks for
currency and interest rate trends in different parts of the globe, taking into
account the ability to hedge a degree of currency or local bond price risk.
At least 65% of the Fund's total assets will consist of high-grade debt
securities, which are those rated in one of the three highest rating categories
of one of the major U.S. rating services or, if unrated, considered to be of
equivalent quality in local currency terms as determined by the Adviser. These
securities are rated AAA, AA or A by Standard & Poor's Ratings Service, a
division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. ("S&P") or Aaa, Aa, or A by Moody's
Investor Services, Inc. ("Moody's").
The Fund may also invest up to 15% of its net assets in debt securities
rated BBB by S&P or Baa by Moody's and lower, or unrated securities considered
to be of equivalent quality by the Adviser. The Fund will not invest in any
securities rated B or lower. (See "Specialized Investment Techniques of the
Funds.")
The Fund's investments may include:
<PAGE>
o Debt securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government,
its agencies or instrumentalities
o Debt securities issued or guaranteed by a foreign national
government, its agencies, instrumentalities or political
subdivisions
o Debt securities issued or guaranteed by supranational
organizations (e.g., European Investment Bank, Inter- American
Development Bank or the World Bank)
o Corporate debt securities
o Bank or bank holding company debt securities
o Other debt securities, including those convertible into common
stock
The Fund may invest in zero coupon securities, indexed securities,
mortgage and asset-backed securities and may engage in strategic transactions.
The Fund may purchase securities which are not publicly offered. If such
securities are purchased, they may be subject to restrictions which may make
them illiquid. See "Investment Restrictions."
The Fund intends to select its investments from a number of country and
market sectors. It may invest substantially in the issuers of one or more
countries and will have investments in debt securities of issuers from a minimum
of three different countries.
Under normal conditions, the Fund will invest at least 15% of its total
assets in U.S. dollar-denominated securities, issued domestically or abroad. For
temporary defensive or emergency purposes, however, the Fund may invest without
limit in U.S. debt securities, including short-term money market securities. It
is impossible to predict for how long such alternative strategies will be
utilized.
General Investment Objectives and Policies of Emerging Markets Income Fund
Emerging Markets Income Fund's primary investment objective is to
provide investors with high current income. As a secondary objective, the Fund
seeks long-term capital appreciation. In pursuing these goals, the Fund invests
primarily in high-yielding debt securities issued by governments and
corporations in emerging markets. Many nations in developing regions of the
world have undertaken sweeping political and economic changes that favor
increased business activity and demand for capital. In the opinion of the
Adviser, these changes present attractive investment opportunities, both in
terms of income and appreciation potential, for long-term investors.
The Fund involves above-average bond fund risk and can invest entirely
in high yield/high risk bonds. It is designed as a long-term investment and not
for short-term trading purposes, and should not be considered a complete
investment program. While designed to provide a high level of current income,
the Fund may not be appropriate for all income investors. The Fund should not be
viewed as a substitute for a money market or short-term bond fund. The Fund
invests in lower quality securities of emerging market issuers, some of which
have in the past defaulted on certain of their financial obligations.
Investments in emerging markets can be volatile. The Fund's share price and
yield can fluctuate daily in response to political events, changes in the
perceived creditworthiness of emerging nations, fluctuations in interest rates
and, to a certain extent, movements in foreign currencies. The securities in
which the Fund may invest are further described below.
In seeking high current income and, secondarily, long-term capital
appreciation, the Fund invests, under normal market conditions, at least 65% of
its total assets in debt securities issued by governments, government-related
entities and corporations in emerging markets, or the return on which is derived
primarily from emerging markets. The Fund considers "emerging markets" to
include any country that is defined as an emerging or developing economy by any
one of the following: the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development
(i.e., the World Bank), the International Finance Corporation or the United
Nations or its authorities.
While the Fund takes a global approach to portfolio management, the
Adviser currently weights its investments toward countries in Latin America,
specifically Argentina, Brazil, Mexico and Venezuela. Latin America, and these
four countries in particular, offers the largest and most liquid debt markets of
the emerging nations around the globe in the past few years. In addition to
Latin America, the Adviser may pursue investment opportunities in Asia, Africa,
the Middle East and the developing countries of Europe, primarily in Eastern
Europe. The Fund deems an issuer to be located in an emerging market if (i) the
issuer is organized under the laws of an emerging market country; (ii) the
issuer's principal securities trading market is in an emerging market; or (iii)
at least 50% of the issuer's non-current
2
<PAGE>
assets, capitalization, gross revenue or profit in any one of the two most
recent fiscal years is derived from (directly or indirectly from subsidiaries)
assets or activities located in emerging markets.
Although the Fund may invest in a wide variety of high-yielding debt
obligations, under normal conditions it must invest at least 50% of its assets
in sovereign debt securities issued or guaranteed by governments, government-
related entities and central banks based in emerging markets (including
participations in and assignments of portions of loans between governments and
financial institutions); government owned, controlled or sponsored entities
located in emerging markets; entities organized and operated for the purpose of
restructuring investment characteristics of instruments issued by government or
government-related entities in emerging markets; and debt obligations issued by
supranational organizations such as the Asian Development Bank and the
Inter-American Development Bank, among others.
The Fund may also consider for purchase any debt securities issued by
commercial banks and companies in emerging markets. The Fund may invest in both
fixed- and floating-rate issues. Debt instruments held by the Fund take the form
of bonds, notes, bills, debentures, convertible securities, warrants, bank
obligations, short-term paper, loan participations, loan assignments and trust
interests. The Fund may invest regularly in "Brady Bonds," which are debt
securities issued under the framework of the Brady Plan as a mechanism for
debtor countries to restructure their outstanding bank loans. Most "Brady Bonds"
have their principal collateralized by zero coupon U.S. Treasury bonds.
To reduce currency risk, the Fund invests at least 65% of its assets in
U.S. dollar-denominated debt securities. Therefore, no more than 35% of the
Fund's total assets may be invested in debt securities denominated in foreign
currencies.
The Fund is not restricted by limits on weighted average portfolio
maturity or the maturity of an individual issue. The weighted average maturity
of the Fund's portfolio is actively managed and may vary from period to period
based upon the Adviser's assessment of economic and market conditions, taking
into account the Fund's investment objectives.
In addition to maturity, the Fund's investments are actively managed in
terms of geographic, industry and currency allocation. In managing the Fund's
portfolio, the Adviser takes into account such factors as the credit quality of
issuers, changes in and levels of interest rates, projected economic growth
rates, capital flows, debt levels, trends in inflation, anticipated movements in
foreign currencies, and government initiatives.
While the Fund is not "diversified" for purposes of the Investment
Company Act of 1940 (the "1940 Act"), it intends to invest in a minimum of three
countries at any one time and will not commit more than 40% of its total assets
to issuers in a single country.
By focusing on fixed-income instruments issued in emerging markets, the
Fund invests predominantly in debt securities that are rated below
investment-grade, or unrated but equivalent to those rated below
investment-grade by internationally recognized rating agencies such as S&P or
Moody's. Debt securities rated below BBB by S&P or below Baa by Moody's are
considered to be below investment-grade. These types of high yield/high risk
debt obligations (commonly referred to as "junk bonds") are predominantly
speculative with respect to the capacity to pay interest and repay principal in
accordance with their terms and generally involve a greater risk of default and
more volatility in price than securities in higher rating categories, such as
investment-grade U.S. bonds. On occasion, the Fund may invest up to 5% of its
net assets in non-performing securities whose quality is comparable to
securities rated as low as D by S&P or C by Moody's. A large portion of the
Fund's bond holdings may trade at substantial discounts from face value.
The Fund may invest up to 35% of its total assets in securities other
than debt obligations issued in emerging markets. These holdings include debt
securities and money market instruments issued by corporations and governments
based in developed markets including up to 20% of total assets in U.S.
fixed-income instruments. However, for temporary, defensive or emergency
purposes, the Fund may invest without limit in U.S. debt securities, including
short-term money market securities. It is impossible to predict for how long
such alternative strategies will be utilized. In addition, the Fund may engage
in strategic transactions for hedging purposes and to enhance potential gain.
The Fund may also acquire shares of closed-end investment companies that invest
primarily in emerging market debt securities. To the extent the Fund invests in
such closed-end investment companies, shareholders will incur certain
duplicative fees and expenses, including investment advisory fees.
3
<PAGE>
Master/feeder structure
The Board of Directors has the discretion to retain the current
distribution arrangement for each Fund while investing in a master fund in a
master/feeder fund structure as described below.
A master/feeder fund structure is one in which a fund (a "feeder
fund"), instead of investing directly in a portfolio of securities, invests most
or all of its investment assets in a separate registered investment company (the
"master fund") with substantially the same investment objective and policies as
the feeder fund. Such a structure permits the pooling of assets of two or more
feeder funds, preserving separate identities or distribution channels at the
feeder fund level. Based on the premise that certain of the expenses of
operating an investment portfolio are relatively fixed, a larger investment
portfolio may eventually achieve a lower ratio of operating expenses to average
net assets. An existing investment company is able to convert to a feeder fund
by selling all of its investments, which involves brokerage and other
transaction costs and realization of a taxable gain or loss, or by contributing
its assets to the master fund and avoiding transaction costs and, if proper
procedures are followed, the realization of taxable gain or loss.
Interfund Borrowing and Lending Program
The Corporation's Board of Directors has approved the filing of an application
for exemptive relief with the SEC which would permit the Funds to participate in
an interfund lending program among certain investment companies advised by the
Adviser. If the Funds receive the requested relief, the interfund lending
program would allow the participating funds to borrow money from and loan money
to each other for temporary or emergency purposes. The program would be subject
to a number of conditions designed to ensure fair and equitable treatment of all
participating funds, including the following: (1) no fund may borrow money
through the program unless it receives a more favorable interest rate than a
rate approximating the lowest interest rate at which bank loans would be
available to any of the participating funds under a loan agreement; and (2) no
fund may lend money through the program unless it receives a more favorable
return than that available from an investment in repurchase agreements and, to
the extent applicable, money market cash sweep arrangements. In addition, a fund
would participate in the program only if and to the extent that such
participation is consistent with the fund's investment objectives and policies
(for instance, money market funds would normally participate only as lenders and
tax exempt funds only as borrowers). Interfund loans and borrowings would extend
overnight, but could have a maximum duration of seven days. Loans could be
called on one day's notice. A fund may have to borrow from a bank at a higher
interest rate if an interfund loan is called or not renewed. Any delay in
repayment to a lending fund could result in a lost investment opportunity or
additional costs. The program is subject to the oversight and periodic review of
the Boards of the participating funds. To the extent the Funds are actually
engaged in borrowing through the interfund lending program, the Funds, as a
matter of non-fundamental policy, may not borrow for other than temporary or
emergency purposes (and not for leveraging), except that the Funds may engage in
reverse repurchase agreements and dollar rolls for any purpose.
Special Investment Considerations of Both Funds
The Funds are intended to provide individual and institutional
investors with an opportunity to invest a portion of their assets in globally
and/or internationally oriented portfolios, according to the Funds' respective
objectives and policies, and are designed for long-term investors who can accept
international investment risk. Management of the Funds believes that allocation
of assets on a global or international basis decreases the degree to which
events in any one country, including the U.S., will affect an investor's entire
investment holdings. In the period since World War II, many leading foreign
economies have grown more rapidly than the U.S. economy, thus providing
investment opportunities; although there can be no assurance that this will be
true in the future. As with any long-term investment, the value of the Funds'
shares when sold may be higher or lower than when purchased.
Investors should recognize that investing in foreign securities
involves certain special considerations, including those set forth below, which
are not typically associated with investing in U.S. securities and which may
favorably or unfavorably affect the Funds' performances. As foreign companies
are not generally subject to uniform standards, practices and requirements, with
respect to accounting, auditing and financial reporting, as are domestic
companies, there may be less publicly available information about a foreign
company than about a domestic company. Many foreign securities markets, while
growing in volume of trading activity, have substantially less volume than the
U.S. market, and securities of some foreign issuers are less liquid and more
volatile than securities of domestic issuers. Similarly, volume and liquidity in
most foreign bond markets is less than in the U.S. and, at times, volatility of
price can
4
<PAGE>
be greater than in the U.S. Further, foreign markets have different clearance
and settlement procedures and in certain markets there have been times when
settlements have been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities
transactions making it difficult to conduct such transactions. Delays in
settlement could result in temporary periods when assets of a Fund are
uninvested and no return is earned thereon. The inability of a Fund to make
intended security purchases due to settlement problems could cause the Fund to
miss attractive investment opportunities. Inability to dispose of portfolio
securities due to settlement problems either could result in losses to a Fund
due to subsequent declines in value of the portfolio security or, if the Fund
has entered into a contract to sell the security, could result in possible
liability to the purchaser. Fixed commissions on some foreign securities
exchanges and bid to asked spreads in foreign bond markets are generally higher
than negotiated commissions on U.S. exchanges and bid to asked spreads in the
U.S. bond market, although the Funds will endeavor to achieve the most favorable
net results on their portfolio transactions. Further, the Funds may encounter
difficulties or be unable to pursue legal remedies and obtain judgments in
foreign courts. There is generally less governmental supervision and regulation
of business and industry practices, securities exchanges, brokers and listed
companies than in the U.S. It may be more difficult for the Funds' agents to
keep currently informed about corporate actions such as stock dividends or other
matters which may affect the prices of portfolio securities. Communications
between the U.S. and foreign countries may be less reliable than within the
U.S., thus increasing the risk of delayed settlements of portfolio transactions
or loss of certificates for portfolio securities. Payment for securities without
delivery may be required in certain foreign markets. In addition, with respect
to certain foreign countries, there is the possibility of expropriation or
confiscatory taxation, political or social instability, or diplomatic
developments, which could affect U.S. investments in those countries.
Investments in foreign securities may also entail certain risks, such as
possible currency blockages or transfer restrictions, and the difficulty of
enforcing rights in other countries. Moreover, individual foreign economies may
differ favorably or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as growth
of gross national product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment, resource
self-sufficiency and balance of payments position. The management of the Funds
seeks to mitigate the risks associated with the foregoing considerations through
continuous professional management.
These considerations generally are more of a concern in developing
countries. For example, the possibility of revolution and the dependence on
foreign economic assistance may be greater in these countries than in developed
countries. Investments in companies domiciled in developing countries may be
subject to potentially greater risks than investments in developed countries.
Investments in foreign securities usually will involve currencies of
foreign countries. Because of the considerations discussed above, the value of
the assets of the Funds as measured in U.S. dollars may be affected favorably or
unfavorably by changes in foreign currency exchange rates and exchange control
regulations, and the Funds may incur costs in connection with conversions
between various currencies. Although the Funds value their assets daily in terms
of U.S. dollars, they do not intend to convert their holdings of foreign
currencies into U.S. dollars on a daily basis. They will do so from time to
time, and investors should be aware of the costs of currency conversion.
Although foreign exchange dealers do not charge a fee for conversion, they do
realize a profit based on the difference (the "spread") between the prices at
which they are buying and selling various currencies. Thus, a dealer may offer
to sell a foreign currency to a Fund at one rate, while offering a lesser rate
of exchange should the Fund desire to resell that currency to the dealer. The
Funds will conduct their foreign currency exchange transactions either on a spot
(i.e., cash) basis at the spot rate prevailing in the foreign currency exchange
market, or through entering into strategic transactions involving currencies
(see "Strategic Transactions and Derivatives").
Because the Funds may be invested in both U.S. and foreign securities
markets, changes in a Fund's share price may have a low correlation with
movements in the U.S. markets. Each Fund's share price will reflect the
movements of both the different stock and bond markets in which it is invested
and of the currencies in which the investments are denominated; the strength or
weakness of the U.S. dollar against foreign currencies may account for part of
each Fund's investment performance. Foreign securities such as those purchased
by a Fund may be subject to foreign governmental taxes which could reduce the
yield on such securities, although a shareholder of the Fund may, subject to
certain limitations, be entitled to claim a credit or deduction for U.S. federal
income tax purposes for his or her proportionate share of such foreign taxes
paid by the Fund (see "TAXES"). U.S. and foreign securities markets do not
always move in step with each other, and the total returns from different
markets may vary significantly. The Funds invest in many securities markets
around the world in an attempt to take advantage of opportunities wherever they
may arise.
Because of the Funds' investment considerations discussed above and the
investment policies, investment in shares of a Fund is not intended to provide a
complete investment program for an investor.
5
<PAGE>
Neither Fund can guarantee a gain or eliminate the risk of loss. The
net asset value of each Fund's shares will increase or decrease with changes in
the market price of the Fund's investments, and there is no assurance that each
Fund's objectives will be achieved.
Special Investment Considerations of Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund
Brady Bonds. Emerging Markets Income Fund may invest in Brady Bonds, which are
securities created through the exchange of existing commercial bank loans to
public and private entities in certain emerging markets for new bonds in
connection with debt restructurings under a debt restructuring plan introduced
by former U.S. Secretary of the Treasury, Nicholas F. Brady (the "Brady Plan").
Brady Plan debt restructurings have been implemented to date in Argentina,
Bulgaria, Brazil, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Jordan, Mexico,
Morocco, Nigeria, the Philippines, Poland, and Uruguay.
Brady Bonds have been issued only recently, and for that reason do not
have a long payment history. Brady Bonds may be collateralized or
uncollateralized, are issued in various currencies (but primarily the U.S.
dollar) and are actively traded in over-the-counter secondary markets.
Dollar-denominated, collateralized Brady Bonds, which may be fixed-rate
bonds or floating-rate bonds, are generally collateralized in full as to
principal by U.S. Treasury zero coupon bonds having the same maturity as the
bonds. Interest payments on many Brady Bonds generally are collateralized by
cash or securities in an amount that, in the case of fixed rate bonds, is equal
to at least one year of rolling interest payments or, in the case of floating
rate bonds, initially is equal to at least one year's rolling interest payments
based on the applicable interest rate at that time and is adjusted at regular
intervals thereafter. Brady Bonds are often viewed as having three or four
valuation components: the collateralized repayment of principal at final
maturity; the collateralized interest payments; the uncollateralized interest
payments; and any uncollateralized repayment of principal at maturity (these
uncollateralized amounts constitute the "residual risk"). In light of the
residual risk of Brady Bonds and the history of defaults of countries issuing
Brady Bonds, with respect to commercial bank loans by public and private
entities, investments in Brady Bonds may be viewed as speculative.
Sovereign Debt. Emerging Markets Income Fund may invest in sovereign debt which
can involve a high degree of risk. The governmental entity that controls the
repayment of sovereign debt may not be able or willing to repay the principal
and/or interest when due in accordance with the terms of such debt. A
governmental entity's willingness or ability to repay principal and interest due
in a timely manner may be affected by, among other factors, its cash flow
situation, the extent of its foreign reserves, the availability of sufficient
foreign exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of the debt
service burden to the economy as a whole, the governmental entity's policy
towards the International Monetary Fund, and the political constraints to which
a governmental entity may be subject. Governmental entities may also be
dependent on expected disbursements from foreign governments, multilateral
agencies and others abroad to reduce principal and interest arrearages on their
debt. The commitment on the part of these governments, agencies and others to
make such disbursements may be conditioned on a governmental entity's
implementation of economic reforms and/or economic performance and the timely
service of such debtor's obligations. Failure to implement such reforms, achieve
such levels of economic performance or repay principal or interest when due may
result in the cancellation of such third parties' commitments to lend funds to
the governmental entity, which may further impair such debtor's ability or
willingness to service its debts in a timely manner. Consequently, governmental
entities may default on their sovereign debt. Holders of sovereign debt
(including the Fund) may be requested to participate in the rescheduling of such
debt and to extend further loans to governmental entities. There is no
bankruptcy proceeding by which sovereign debt on which governmental entities
have defaulted may be collected in whole or in part.
Loan Participations and Assignments. Emerging Markets Income Fund may invest in
fixed- and floating-rate loans ("Loans") arranged through private negotiations
between an issuer of emerging market debt instruments and one or more financial
institutions ("Lenders"). The Fund's investments in Loans are expected in most
instances to be in the form of participations in Loans ("Participations") and
assignments of portions of Loans ("Assignments") from third parties.
Participations typically will result in the Fund having a contractual
relationship only with the Lender and not with the borrower. The Fund will have
the right to receive payments of principal, interest and any fees to which it is
entitled only from the Lender selling the Participation and only upon receipt by
the Lender of the payments from the borrower. In connection with purchasing
Participations, the Fund generally will have no right to enforce compliance by
the borrower with the terms of the loan agreement relating to the Loan, nor any
rights of set-off against the borrower, and the Fund
6
<PAGE>
may not directly benefit from any collateral supporting the Loan in which it has
purchased the Participation. As a result, the Fund will assume the credit risk
of both the borrower and the Lender that is selling the Participation. In the
event of the insolvency of the Lender selling a Participation, the Fund may be
treated as a general creditor of the Lender and may not benefit from any set-off
between the Lender and the borrower. The Fund will acquire Participations only
if the Lender interpositioned between the Fund and the borrower is determined by
the Adviser to be creditworthy.
When the Fund purchases Assignments from Lenders, it will acquire
direct rights against the borrower on the Loan. Because Assignments are arranged
through private negotiations between potential assignees and potential
assignors, however, the rights and obligations acquired by the Fund as the
purchaser of an Assignment may differ from, and may be more limited than, those
held by the assigning Lender.
The Fund may have difficulty disposing of Assignments and
Participations. Because no liquid market for these obligations typically exists,
the Fund anticipates that these obligations could be sold only to a limited
number of institutional investors. The lack of a liquid secondary market will
have an adverse effect on the Fund's ability to dispose of particular
Assignments or Participations when necessary to meet the Fund's liquidity needs
or in response to a specific economic event, such as a deterioration in the
creditworthiness of the borrower. The lack of a liquid secondary market for
Assignments and Participations may also make it more difficult for the Fund to
assign a value to those securities for purposes of valuing the Fund's portfolio
and calculating its net asset value.
Investments and Investment Techniques
Foreign Securities. Each Fund is designed for investors who can accept currency
and other forms of international investment risk. The Adviser believes that
allocation of each Fund's assets on a global basis decreases the degree to which
events in any one country, including the U.S., will affect an investor's entire
investment holdings. In the period since World War II, many leading foreign
economies have grown more rapidly than the U.S. economy and from time to time
have had interest rate levels that had a higher real return than the U.S. bond
market. Consequently, the securities of foreign issuers have provided attractive
returns relative to the returns provided by the securities of U.S. issuers,
although there can be no assurance that this will be true in the future.
Investors should recognize that investing in foreign securities
involves certain special considerations, including those set forth below, which
are not typically associated with investing in U.S. securities and which may
affect a Fund's performance favorably or unfavorably. As foreign companies are
not generally subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting
standards, practices and requirements comparable to those applicable to domestic
companies, there may be less publicly available information about a foreign
company than about a domestic company. Many foreign stock markets, while growing
in volume of trading activity, have substantially less volume than that of the
New York Stock Exchange, Inc. (the "Exchange"), and securities of some foreign
issuers are less liquid and more volatile than securities of domestic issuers.
Similarly, volume and liquidity in most foreign bond markets is less than that
in the U.S. market and at times, volatility of price can be greater than in the
U.S. Further, foreign markets have different clearance and settlement procedures
and in certain markets there have been times when settlements have been unable
to keep pace with the volume of securities transactions, making it difficult to
conduct such transactions. Delays in settlement could result in temporary
periods when assets of a Fund are uninvested and no return is earned thereon.
The inability of a Fund to make intended security purchases due to settlement
problems could cause the Fund to miss attractive investment opportunities.
Inability to dispose of portfolio securities due to settlement problems either
could result in losses to a Fund due to subsequent declines in value of the
portfolio security or, if a Fund has entered into a contract to sell the
security, could result in possible liability to the purchaser. Fixed commissions
on some foreign securities exchanges are generally higher than negotiated
commissions on U.S. exchanges, although the Adviser will endeavor to achieve the
most favorable net results on each Fund's portfolio transactions. Further, a
Fund may encounter difficulties or be unable to pursue legal remedies and obtain
judgment in foreign courts. There is generally less government supervision and
regulation of business and industry practices, securities exchanges, brokers and
listed companies than in the U.S. It may be more difficult for a Fund's agents
to keep currently informed about corporate actions such as stock dividends or
other matters that may affect the prices of portfolio securities. Communications
between the U.S. and foreign countries may be less reliable than within the
U.S., thus increasing the risk of delayed settlements of portfolio transactions
or loss of certificates for portfolio securities. In addition, with respect to
certain foreign countries, there is the possibility of nationalization,
expropriation, the imposition of confiscatory or withholding taxation,
political, social or economic instability, or diplomatic developments that could
affect U.S. investments in those countries. Investments in foreign securities
may also entail certain risks, such as possible currency blockages or transfer
7
<PAGE>
restrictions, and the difficulty of enforcing rights in other countries.
Moreover, individual foreign economies may differ favorably or unfavorably from
the U.S. economy in such respects as growth of gross national product, rate of
inflation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and balance of
payments position. The Adviser seeks to mitigate the risks to each Fund
associated with the foregoing considerations through investment variation and
continuous professional management.
Eastern Europe. Investments in companies domiciled in Eastern European countries
may be subject to potentially greater risks than those of other foreign issuers.
These risks include (i) potentially less social, political and economic
stability; (ii) the small current size of the markets for such securities and
the low volume of trading, which result in less liquidity and in greater price
volatility; (iii) certain national policies which may restrict a Fund's
investment opportunities, including restrictions on investment in issuers or
industries deemed sensitive to national interests; (iv) foreign taxation; (v)
the absence of developed legal structures governing private or foreign
investment or allowing for judicial redress for injury to private property; (vi)
the absence, until recently in certain Eastern European countries, of a capital
market structure or market-oriented economy; and (vii) the possibility that
recent favorable economic developments in Eastern Europe may be slowed or
reversed by unanticipated political or social events in such countries, or in
the countries of the former Soviet Union.
Investments in such countries involve risks of nationalization,
expropriation and confiscatory taxation. The Communist governments of a number
of East European countries expropriated large amounts of private property in the
past, in many cases without adequate compensation, and there may be no assurance
that such expropriation will not occur in the future. In the event of such
expropriation, a Fund could lose a substantial portion of any investments it has
made in the affected countries. Further, no accounting standards exist in East
European countries. Finally, even though certain East European currencies may be
convertible into U.S. dollars, the conversion rates may be artificial to the
actual market values and may be adverse to a Fund's shareholders.
Foreign Currencies. Investments in foreign securities usually will involve
currencies of foreign countries. Moreover, a Fund may temporarily hold funds in
bank deposits in foreign currencies during the completion of investment programs
and may purchase forward foreign currency contracts, foreign currency futures
contracts and options on such contracts. Because of these factors, the value of
the assets of a Fund as measured in U.S. dollars may be affected favorably or
unfavorably by changes in foreign currency exchange rates and exchange control
regulations, and a Fund may incur costs in connection with conversions between
various currencies. Although the Funds' custodian values each Fund's assets
daily in terms of U.S. dollars, none of the Funds intends to convert its
holdings of foreign currencies into U.S. dollars on a daily basis. A Fund will
do so from time to time, and investors should be aware of the costs of currency
conversion. Although foreign exchange dealers do not charge a fee for
conversion, they do realize a profit based on the difference (the "spread")
between the prices at which they are buying and selling various currencies.
Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign currency to a Fund at one rate, while
offering a lesser rate of exchange should the Fund desire to resell that
currency to the dealer. A Fund will conduct its foreign currency exchange
transactions either on a spot (i.e., cash) basis at the spot rate prevailing in
the foreign currency exchange market, or through entering into forward or
futures contracts to purchase or sell foreign currencies.
Because a Fund normally will be invested in both U.S. and foreign
securities markets, changes in the Fund's share price may have a low correlation
with movements in the U.S. markets. A Fund's share price will reflect the
movements of both the different stock and bond markets in which it is invested
and of the currencies in which the investments are denominated; the strength or
weakness of the U.S. dollar against foreign currencies may account for part of
the Fund's investment performance. U.S. and foreign securities markets do not
always move in step with each other, and the total returns from different
markets may vary significantly. The Funds invest in many securities markets
around the world in an attempt to take advantage of opportunities wherever they
may arise.
Investing in Emerging Markets. Most emerging securities markets may have
substantially less volume and are subject to less government supervision than
U.S. securities markets. Securities of many issuers in emerging markets may be
less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable domestic issuers. In
addition, there is less regulation of securities exchanges, securities dealers,
and listed and unlisted companies in emerging markets than in the U.S.
Emerging markets also have different clearance and settlement
procedures, and in certain markets there have been times when settlements have
been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transactions. Delays in
settlement could result in temporary periods when a portion of the assets of a
Fund is uninvested and no cash is earned
8
<PAGE>
thereon. The inability of a Fund to make intended security purchases due to
settlement problems could cause the Fund to miss attractive investment
opportunities. Inability to dispose of portfolio securities due to settlement
problems could result either in losses to the Fund due to subsequent declines in
value of the portfolio security or, if the Fund has entered into a contract to
sell the security, could result in possible liability to the purchaser. Costs
associated with transactions in foreign securities are generally higher than
costs associated with transactions in U.S. securities. Such transactions also
involve additional costs for the purchase or sale of foreign currency.
Foreign investment in certain emerging market debt obligations is
restricted or controlled to varying degrees. These restrictions or controls may
at times limit or preclude foreign investment in certain emerging markets debt
obligations and increase the costs and expenses of a Fund. Certain emerging
markets require prior governmental approval of investments by foreign persons,
limit the amount of investment by foreign persons in a particular company, limit
the investment by foreign persons only to a specific class of securities of a
company that may have less advantageous rights than the classes available for
purchase by domiciliaries of the countries and/or impose additional taxes on
foreign investors. Certain emerging markets may also restrict investment
opportunities in issuers in industries deemed important to national interest.
Certain emerging markets may require governmental approval for the
repatriation of investment income, capital or the proceeds of sales of
securities by foreign investors. In addition, if a deterioration occurs in an
emerging market's balance of payments or for other reasons, a country could
impose temporary restrictions on foreign capital remittances. A Fund could be
adversely affected by delays in, or a refusal to grant, any required
governmental approval for repatriation of capital, as well as by the application
to the Fund of any restrictions on investments.
In the course of investment in emerging market debt obligations, a Fund
will be exposed to the direct or indirect consequences of political, social and
economic changes in one or more emerging markets. Political changes in emerging
market countries may affect the willingness of an emerging market country
governmental issuer to make or provide for timely payments of its obligations.
The country's economic status, as reflected, among other things, in its
inflation rate, the amount of its external debt and its gross domestic product,
also affects its ability to honor its obligations. While the Fund manages its
assets in a manner that will seek to minimize the exposure to such risks, and
will further reduce risk by owning the bonds of many issuers, there can be no
assurance that adverse political, social or economic changes will not cause a
Fund to suffer a loss of value in respect of the securities in the Fund's
portfolio.
The risk also exists that an emergency situation may arise in one or
more emerging markets as a result of which trading of securities may cease or
may be substantially curtailed and prices for a Fund's securities in such
markets may not be readily available. The Corporation may suspend redemption of
its shares for any period during which an emergency exists, as determined by the
Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). Accordingly if a Fund believes
that appropriate circumstances exist, it will promptly apply to the SEC for a
determination that an emergency is present. During the period commencing from a
Fund's identification of such condition until the date of the SEC action, the
Fund's securities in the affected markets will be valued at fair value
determined in good faith by or under the direction of the Corporation's Board of
Directors.
Volume and liquidity in most foreign bond markets are less than in the
U.S. and securities of many foreign companies are less liquid and more volatile
than securities of comparable U.S. companies. Fixed commissions on foreign
securities exchanges are generally higher than negotiated commissions on U.S.
exchanges, although each Fund endeavors to achieve the most favorable net
results on its portfolio transactions. There is generally less government
supervision and regulation of business and industry practices, securities
exchanges, brokers, dealers and listed companies than in the U.S. Mail service
between the U.S. and foreign countries may be slower or less reliable than
within the U.S., thus increasing the risk of delayed settlements of portfolio
transactions or loss of certificates for portfolio securities. In addition, with
respect to certain emerging markets, there is the possibility of expropriation
or confiscatory taxation, political or social instability, or diplomatic
developments, which could affect the Fund's investments in those countries.
Moreover, individual emerging market economies may differ favorably or
unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as growth of gross national
product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment, and resource self-sufficiency
and balance of payments position.
A Fund may have limited legal recourse in the event of a default with
respect to certain debt obligations it holds. If the issuer of a fixed-income
security owned by a Fund defaults, the Fund may incur additional expenses to
seek recovery. Debt obligations issued by emerging market country governments
differ from debt obligations of private
9
<PAGE>
entities; remedies from defaults on debt obligations issued by emerging market
governments, unlike those on private debt, must be pursued in the courts of the
defaulting party itself. A Fund's ability to enforce its rights against private
issuers may be limited. The ability to attach assets to enforce a judgment may
be limited. Legal recourse is therefore somewhat diminished. Bankruptcy,
moratorium and other similar laws applicable to private issuers of debt
obligations may be substantially different from those of other countries. The
political context, expressed as an emerging market governmental issuer's
willingness to meet the terms of the debt obligation, for example, is of
considerable importance. In addition, no assurance can be given that the holders
of commercial bank debt may not contest payments to the holders of debt
obligations in the event of default under commercial bank loan agreements. With
four exceptions, (Panama, Cuba, Costa Rica and Yugoslavia), no sovereign
emerging markets borrower has defaulted on an external bond issue since World
War II.
Income from securities held by a Fund could be reduced by a withholding
tax on the source or other taxes imposed by the emerging market countries in
which the Fund makes its investments. A Fund's net asset value may also be
affected by changes in the rates or methods of taxation applicable to the Fund
or to entities in which the Fund has invested. The Adviser will consider the
cost of any taxes in determining whether to acquire any particular investments,
but can provide no assurance that the taxes will not be subject to change.
Many emerging markets have experienced substantial, and in some periods
extremely high rates of inflation for many years. Inflation and rapid
fluctuations in inflation rates have had and may continue to have adverse
effects on the economies and securities markets of certain emerging market
countries. In an attempt to control inflation, wage and price controls have been
imposed in certain countries. Of these countries, some, in recent years, have
begun to control inflation through prudent economic policies.
Emerging market governmental issuers are among the largest debtors to
commercial banks, foreign governments, international financial organizations and
other financial institutions. Certain emerging market governmental issuers have
not been able to make payments of interest on or principal of debt obligations
as those payments have come due. Obligations arising from past restructuring
agreements may affect the economic performance and political and social
stability of those issuers.
Governments of many emerging market countries have exercised and
continue to exercise substantial influence over many aspects of the private
sector through the ownership or control of many companies, including some of the
largest in any given country. As a result, government actions in the future
could have a significant effect on economic conditions in emerging markets,
which in turn, may adversely affect companies in the private sector, general
market conditions and prices and yields of certain of the securities in a Fund's
portfolio. Expropriation, confiscatory taxation, nationalization, political,
economic or social instability or other similar developments have occurred
frequently over the history of certain emerging markets and could adversely
affect a Fund's assets should these conditions recur.
The ability of emerging market country governmental issuers to make
timely payments on their obligations is likely to be influenced strongly by the
issuer's balance of payments, including export performance, and its access to
international credits and investments. An emerging market whose exports are
concentrated in a few commodities could be vulnerable to a decline in the
international prices of one or more of those commodities. Increased
protectionism on the part of an emerging market's trading partners could also
adversely affect the country's exports and diminish its trade account surplus,
if any. To the extent that emerging markets receive payment for its exports in
currencies other than dollars or non-emerging market currencies, its ability to
make debt payments denominated in dollars or non-emerging market currencies
could be affected.
To the extent that an emerging market country cannot generate a trade
surplus, it must depend on continuing loans from foreign governments,
multilateral organizations or private commercial banks, aid payments from
foreign governments and on inflows of foreign investment. The access of emerging
markets to these forms of external funding may not be certain, and a withdrawal
of external funding could adversely affect the capacity of emerging market
country governmental issuers to make payments on their obligations. In addition,
the cost of servicing emerging market debt obligations can be affected by a
change in international interest rates since the majority of these obligations
carry interest rates that are adjusted periodically based upon international
rates.
Another factor bearing on the ability of emerging market countries to
repay debt obligations is the level of international reserves of the country.
Fluctuations in the level of these reserves affect the amount of foreign
exchange
10
<PAGE>
readily available for external debt payments and thus could have a bearing on
the capacity of emerging market countries to make payments on these debt
obligations.
Investing in Latin America. Investing in securities of Latin American issuers
may entail risks relating to the potential political and economic instability of
certain Latin American countries and the risks of expropriation,
nationalization, confiscation or the imposition of restrictions on foreign
investment and on repatriation of capital invested. In the event of
expropriation, nationalization or other confiscation by any country, a Fund
could lose its entire investment in any such country.
The securities markets of Latin American countries are substantially
smaller, less developed, less liquid and more volatile than the major securities
markets in the U.S. Disclosure and regulatory standards are in many respects
less stringent than U.S. standards. Furthermore, there is a lower level of
monitoring and regulation of the markets and the activities of investors in such
markets.
The limited size of many Latin American securities markets and limited
trading volume in the securities of Latin American issuers compared to volume of
trading in the securities of U.S. issuers could cause prices to be erratic for
reasons apart from factors that affect the soundness and competitiveness of the
securities issuers. For example, limited market size may cause prices to be
unduly influenced by traders who control large positions. Adverse publicity and
investors' perceptions, whether or not based on in-depth fundamental analysis,
may decrease the value and liquidity of portfolio securities.
Each Fund may invest a portion of its assets in securities denominated
in currencies of Latin American countries. Accordingly, changes in the value of
these currencies against the U.S. dollar may result in corresponding changes in
the U.S. dollar value of the Fund's assets denominated in those currencies.
Some Latin American countries also may have managed currencies, which
are not free floating against the U.S. dollar. In addition, there is risk that
certain Latin American countries may restrict the free conversion of their
currencies into other currencies. Further, certain Latin American currencies may
not be internationally traded. Certain of these currencies have experienced a
steep devaluation relative to the U.S. dollar. Any devaluations in the
currencies in which a Fund's portfolio securities are denominated may have a
detrimental impact on the Fund's net asset value.
The economies of individual Latin American countries may differ
favorably or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as the rate of
growth of gross domestic product, the rate of inflation, capital reinvestment,
resource self-sufficiency and balance of payments position. Certain Latin
American countries have experienced high levels of inflation which can have a
debilitating effect on an economy, although some have begun to control inflation
in recent years through prudent economic policies. Furthermore, certain Latin
American countries may impose withholding taxes on dividends payable to a Fund
at a higher rate than those imposed by other foreign countries. This may reduce
a Fund's investment income available for distribution to shareholders.
Certain Latin American countries such as Argentina, Brazil and Mexico
are among the world's largest debtors to commercial banks and foreign
governments. At times, certain Latin American countries have declared moratoria
on the payment of principal and/or interest on outstanding debt.
Latin America is a region rich in natural resources such as oil,
copper, tin, silver, iron ore, forestry, fishing, livestock and agriculture. The
region has a large population (roughly 300 million) representing a large
domestic market. Economic growth was strong in the 1960s and 1970s, but slowed
dramatically (and in some instances was negative) in the 1980s as a result of
poor economic policies, higher international interest rates, and the denial of
access to new foreign capital. Although a number of Latin American countries are
currently experiencing lower rates of inflation and higher rates of real growth
in gross domestic product than they have in the past, other Latin American
countries continue to experience significant problems, including high inflation
rates and high interest rates. Capital flight has proven a persistent problem
and external debt has been forcibly restructured. Political turmoil, high
inflation, capital repatriation restrictions, and nationalization have further
exacerbated conditions.
Governments of many Latin American countries have exercised and
continue to exercise substantial influence over many aspects of the private
sector through the ownership or control of many companies, including some of the
largest in those countries. As a result, government actions in the future could
have a significant effect on economic
11
<PAGE>
conditions which may adversely affect prices of certain portfolio securities.
Expropriation, confiscatory taxation, nationalization, political, economic or
social instability or other similar developments, such as military coups, have
occurred in the past and could also adversely affect a Fund's investments in
this region.
Changes in political leadership, the implementation of market oriented
economic policies, such as privatization, trade reform and fiscal and monetary
reform are among the recent steps taken to renew economic growth. External debt
is being restructured and flight capital (domestic capital that has left home
country) has begun to return. Inflation control efforts have also been
implemented. Free Trade Zones are being discussed in various areas around the
region, the most notable being a free zone among Mexico, the U.S. and Canada and
another zone among four countries in the southernmost point of Latin America.
Currencies are typically weak, but most are now relatively free floating, and it
is not unusual for the currencies to undergo wide fluctuations in value over
short periods of time due to changes in the market.
Investing in the Pacific Basin. Economies of individual Pacific Basin countries
may differ favorably or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as
growth of gross national product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment,
resource self-sufficiency, interest rate levels, and balance of payments
position. Of particular importance, most of the economies in this region of the
world are heavily dependent upon exports, particularly to developed countries,
and, accordingly, have been and may continue to be adversely affected by trade
barriers, managed adjustments in relative currency values, and other
protectionist measures imposed or negotiated by the U.S. and other countries
with which they trade. These economies also have been and may continue to be
negatively impacted by economic conditions in the U.S. and other trading
partners, which can lower the demand for goods produced in the Pacific Basin.
With respect to the Peoples Republic of China and other markets in
which each Fund may participate, there is the possibility of nationalization,
expropriation or confiscatory taxation, political changes, government
regulation, social instability or diplomatic developments that could adversely
impact a Pacific Basin country or the Fund's investment in the debt of that
country.
Foreign companies, including Pacific Basin companies, are not generally
subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards,
practices and disclosure requirements comparable to those applicable to U.S.
companies. Consequently, there may be less publicly available information about
such companies than about U.S. companies. Moreover, there is generally less
government supervision and regulation in the Pacific Basin than in the U.S.
Investing in Europe. Most Eastern European nations, including Hungary, Poland,
Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, and Romania have had centrally planned,
socialist economies since shortly after World War II. A number of their
governments, including those of Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Poland are
currently implementing or considering reforms directed at political and economic
liberalization, including efforts to foster multi-party political systems,
decentralize economic planning, and move toward free market economies. At
present, no Eastern European country has a developed stock market, but Poland,
Hungary, and the Czech Republic have small securities markets in operation.
Ethnic and civil conflict currently rage through the former Yugoslavia. The
outcome is uncertain.
Both the European Community (the "EC") and Japan, among others, have
made overtures to establish trading arrangements and assist in the economic
development of the Eastern European nations. A great deal of interest also
surrounds opportunities created by the reunification of East and West Germany.
Following reunification, the Federal Republic of Germany has remained a firm and
reliable member of the EC and numerous other international alliances and
organizations. To reduce inflation caused by the unification of East and West
Germany, Germany has adopted a tight monetary policy which has led to weakened
exports and a reduced domestic demand for goods and services. However, in the
long-term, reunification could prove to be an engine for domestic and
international growth.
The conditions that have given rise to these developments are
changeable, and there is no assurance that reforms will continue or that their
goals will be achieved.
Portugal is a genuinely emerging market which has experienced rapid
growth since the mid-1980s, except for a brief period of stagnation over
1990-91. Portugal's government remains committed to privatization of the
financial system away from one dependent upon the banking system to a more
balanced structure appropriate for the requirements of a modern economy.
Inflation continues to be about three times the EC average.
12
<PAGE>
Economic reforms launched in the 1980s continue to benefit Turkey in
the 1990s. Turkey's economy has grown steadily since the early 1980s, with real
growth in per capita Gross Domestic Product (the "GDP") increasing more than 6%
annually. Agriculture remains the most important economic sector, employing
approximately 55% of the labor force, and accounting for nearly 20% of GDP and
20% of exports. Inflation and interest rates remain high, and a large budget
deficit will continue to cause difficulties in Turkey's substantial
transformation to a dynamic free market economy.
Like many other Western economies, Greece suffered severely from the
global oil price hikes of the 1970s, with annual GDP growth plunging from 8% to
2% in the 1980s, and inflation, unemployment, and budget deficits rising
sharply. The fall of the socialist government in 1989 and the inability of the
conservative opposition to obtain a clear majority have led to business
uncertainty and the continued prospects for flat economic performance. Once
Greece has sorted out its political situation, it will have to face the
challenges posed by the steadily increasing integration of the EC, including the
progressive lowering of trade and investment barriers. Tourism continues as a
major industry, providing a vital offset to a sizable commodity trade deficit.
Securities traded in certain emerging European securities markets may
be subject to risks due to the inexperience of financial intermediaries, the
lack of modern technology and the lack of a sufficient capital base to expand
business operations. Additionally, former Communist regimes of a number of
Eastern European countries had expropriated a large amount of property, the
claims of which have not been entirely settled. There can be no assurance that
the Fund's investments in Eastern Europe would not also be expropriated,
nationalized or otherwise confiscated. Finally, any change in leadership or
policies of Eastern European countries, or countries that exercise a significant
influence over those countries, may halt the expansion of or reverse the
liberalization of foreign investment policies now occurring and adversely affect
existing investment opportunities.
Investing in Africa. Africa is a continent of roughly 50 countries with a total
population of approximately 840 million people. Literacy rates (the percentage
of people who are over 15 years of age and who can read and write) are
relatively low, ranging from 20% to 60%. The primary industries include crude
oil, natural gas, manganese ore, phosphate, bauxite, copper, iron, diamond,
cotton, coffee, cocoa, timber, tobacco, sugar, tourism and cattle.
Many of the countries are fraught with political instability. However,
there has been a trend over the past five years toward democratization. Many
countries are moving from a military style, Marxist, or single party government
to a multi-party system. Still, there remain many countries that do not have a
stable political process. Other countries have been enmeshed in civil wars and
border clashes.
Economically, the Northern Rim countries (including Morocco, Egypt and
Algeria) and Nigeria, Zimbabwe and South Africa are the wealthier countries on
the continent. The market capitalization of these countries has been growing
recently as more international companies invest in Africa and as local companies
start to list on the exchanges. However, religious and ethnic strife has been a
significant source of instability.
On the other end of the economic spectrum are countries, such as
Burkinafaso, Madagascar and Malawi, that are considered to be among the poorest
or least developed in the world. These countries are generally landlocked or
have poor natural resources. The economies of many African countries are heavily
dependent on international oil prices. Of all the African industries, oil has
been the most lucrative, accounting for 40% to 60% of many countries' GDP.
Debt Securities. Each Fund may invest in debt securities if the Adviser
determines that the capital appreciation on debt securities is likely to exceed
that of common stocks. Portfolio debt investments will be selected on the basis
of capital appreciation potential, by evaluating, among other things, potential
yield, if any, credit quality, and the fundamental outlooks for currency and
interest rate trends in different parts of the world, taking into account the
ability to hedge a degree of currency or local bond price risk. The Funds may
purchase "investment-grade" bonds, which are those rated Aaa, Aa, A or Baa by
Moody's or AAA, AA, A or BBB by S&P or, if unrated, judged to be of equivalent
quality as determined by the Adviser. Bonds rated Baa or BBB may have
speculative elements as well as investment-grade characteristics. Below
investment-grade securities, are those rated below Baa by Moody's or below BBB
by S&P and in unrated securities of equivalent quality. Global Bond Fund may
invest up to 15% of its net assets in securities rated below BBB or below Baa,
but may not invest in securities rated B or lower by Moody's and S&P or in
equivalent unrated securities.
13
<PAGE>
High Yield, High Risk Securities. Below investment grade securities (rated below
Baa by Moody's and below BBB by S&P and commonly referred to as "high yield" or
"junk" bonds) or unrated securities of equivalent quality in the Adviser's
judgment, carry a high degree of risk (including the possibility of default or
bankruptcy of the issuers of such securities), generally involve greater
volatility of price and risk of principal and income, and may be less liquid,
than securities in the higher rating categories and are considered speculative.
The lower the ratings of such debt securities, the greater their risks render
them like equity securities. Global Bond Fund may invest up to 15% of its net
assets, and Emerging Markets Income Fund may invest up to 100% of its net
assets. See the Appendix to this Statement of Additional Information for a more
complete description of the ratings assigned by ratings organizations and their
respective characteristics.
An economic downturn could disrupt the high-yield market and impair the
ability of issuers to repay principal and interest. Also, an increase in
interest rates would likely have a greater adverse impact on the value of such
obligations than on higher quality debt securities. During an economic downturn
or period of rising interest rates, highly leveraged issues may experience
financial stress which could adversely affect their ability to service their
principal and interest payment obligations. Prices and yields of high-yield
securities will fluctuate over time and, during periods of economic uncertainty,
volatility of high-yield securities may adversely affect a Fund's net asset
value. In addition, investments in high-yield zero coupon or pay-in-kind bonds,
rather than income-bearing high-yield securities, may be more speculative and
may be subject to greater fluctuations in value due to changes in interest
rates.
The trading market for high-yield securities may be thin to the extent
that there is no established retail secondary market. A thin trading market may
limit the ability of a Fund to accurately value high-yield securities in its
portfolio and to dispose of those securities. Adverse publicity and investor
perceptions may decrease the values and liquidity of high-yield securities.
These securities may also involve special registration responsibilities,
liabilities and costs, and liquidity and valuation difficulties.
Credit quality in the high-yield securities market can change suddenly
and unexpectedly, and even recently issued credit ratings may not fully reflect
the actual risks posed by a particular high-yield security. For these reasons,
it is the policy of the Adviser not to rely exclusively on ratings issued by
established credit rating agencies, but to supplement such ratings with its own
independent and on-going review of credit quality. The achievement of a Fund's
investment objective by investment in such securities may be more dependent on
the Adviser's credit analysis than is the case for higher quality bonds. Should
the rating of a portfolio security be downgraded, the Adviser will determine
whether it is in the best interest of the Fund to retain or dispose of such
security.
Prices for below investment-grade securities may be affected by
legislative and regulatory developments. For example, new federal rules require
savings and loan institutions to gradually reduce their holdings of this type of
security. Also, recent legislation restricts the issuer's tax deduction for
interest payments on these securities. Such legislation may significantly
depress the prices of outstanding securities of this type. For more information
regarding tax issues related to high-yield securities (see "TAXES").
Convertible Securities. Each Fund may invest in convertible securities, that is,
bonds, notes, debentures, preferred stocks and other securities which are
convertible into common stock. Investments in convertible securities can provide
an opportunity for capital appreciation and/or income through interest and
dividend payments by virtue of their conversion or exchange features. Each Fund
each limits its purchases of convertible securities to debt securities
convertible into common stock.
The convertible securities in which a Fund may invest are either fixed
income or zero coupon debt securities which may be converted or exchanged at a
stated or determinable exchange ratio into underlying shares of common stock.
The exchange ratio for any particular convertible security may be adjusted from
time to time due to stock splits, dividends, spin-offs, other corporate
distributions or scheduled changes in the exchange ratio. Convertible debt
securities and convertible preferred stocks, until converted, have general
characteristics similar to both debt and equity securities. Although to a lesser
extent than with debt securities generally, the market value of convertible
securities tends to decline as interest rates increase and, conversely, tends to
increase as interest rates decline. In addition, because of the conversion or
exchange feature, the market value of convertible securities typically changes
as the market value of the underlying common stocks changes, and, therefore,
also tends to follow movements in the general market for equity securities. A
unique feature of convertible securities is that as the market price of the
underlying common stock declines, convertible securities tend to trade
increasingly on a yield basis, and so may not experience market value
14
<PAGE>
declines to the same extent as the underlying common stock. When the market
price of the underlying common stock increases, the prices of the convertible
securities tend to rise as a reflection of the value of the underlying common
stock, although typically not as much as the underlying common stock. While no
securities investments are without risk, investments in convertible securities
generally entail less risk than investments in common stock of the same issuer.
As debt securities, convertible securities are investments which
provide for a stream of income (or in the case of zero coupon securities,
accretion of income) with generally higher yields than common stocks. Of course,
like all debt securities, there can be no assurance of income or principal
payments because the issuers of the convertible securities may default on their
obligations. Convertible securities generally offer lower yields than
non-convertible securities of similar quality because of their conversion or
exchange features.
Convertible securities generally are subordinated to other similar but
non-convertible securities of the same issuer, although convertible bonds, as
corporate debt obligations, enjoy seniority in right of payment to all equity
securities, and convertible preferred stock is senior to common stock, of the
same issuer. However, because of the subordination feature, convertible bonds
and convertible preferred stock typically have lower ratings than similar
non-convertible securities.
Convertible securities may be issued as fixed income obligations that
pay current income or as zero coupon notes and bonds, including Liquid Yield
Option Notes ("LYONs"(TM)). Zero coupon securities pay no cash income and are
sold at substantial discounts from their value at maturity. When held to
maturity, their entire income, which consists of accretion of discount, comes
from the difference between the issue price and their value at maturity. Zero
coupon convertible securities offer the opportunity for capital appreciation as
increases (or decreases) in market value of such securities closely follow the
movements in the market value of the underlying common stock. Zero coupon
convertible securities generally are expected to be less volatile than the
underlying common stocks as they usually are issued with shorter maturities (15
years or less) and are issued with options and/or redemption features
exercisable by the holder of the obligation entitling the holder to redeem the
obligation and receive a defined cash payment.
Illiquid Securities. Each Fund may purchase securities other than in the open
market. While such purchases may often offer attractive opportunities for
investment not otherwise available on the open market, the securities so
purchased are often "restricted securities" or "not readily marketable," i.e.,
securities which cannot be sold to the public without registration under the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"), or the availability of an
exemption from registration (such as Rule 144A) or because they are subject to
other legal or contractual delays in or restrictions on resale. This investment
practice, therefore, could have the effect of increasing the level of
illiquidity of a Fund. It is each Fund's policy that illiquid securities
(including repurchase agreements of more than seven days duration, certain
restricted securities, and other securities which are not readily marketable)
may not constitute, at the time of purchase, more than 15% of the value of the
Funds' net assets. The Corporation's Board of Directors has approved guidelines
for use by the Adviser in determining whether a security is illiquid.
Generally speaking, restricted securities may be sold (i) only to
qualified institutional buyers; (ii) in a privately negotiated transaction to a
limited number of purchasers; (iii) in limited quantities after they have been
held for a specified period of time and other conditions are met pursuant to an
exemption from registration; or (iv) in a public offering for which a
registration statement is in effect under the 1933 Act. Issuers of restricted
securities may not be subject to the disclosure and other investor protection
requirements that would be applicable if their securities were publicly traded.
If adverse market conditions were to develop during the period between a Fund's
decision to sell a restricted or illiquid security and the point at which the
Fund is permitted or able to sell such security, the Fund might obtain a price
less favorable than the price that prevailed when it decided to sell. Where a
registration statement is required for the resale of restricted securities, a
Fund may be required to bear all or part of the registration expenses. A Fund
may be deemed to be an "underwriter" for purposes of the 1933 Act when selling
restricted securities to the public and, in such event, the Fund may be liable
to purchasers of such securities if the registration statement prepared by the
issuer is materially inaccurate or misleading.
Dollar Rolls. Global Bond Fund may enter into "dollar roll" transactions, which
consist of the sale by the Fund to a bank or broker/dealer (the "counterparty")
of GNMA certificates or other mortgage-backed securities together with a
commitment to purchase similar, but not identical, securities at a future date,
at the same price. The counterparty receives all principal and interest
payments, including prepayments, made on the security while the counterparty is
the holder. The Fund receives a fee from the counterparty as consideration for
entering into the commitment to purchase.
15
<PAGE>
Dollar rolls may be renewed over a period of several months with a different
repurchase price and a cash settlement made at each renewal without physical
delivery of securities. Moreover, the transaction may be preceded by a firm
commitment agreement pursuant to which the Fund agrees to buy a security on a
future date.
The Fund will not use such transactions for leveraging purposes and,
accordingly, will segregate cash or liquid assets in an amount sufficient to
meet its purchase obligations under the transactionsThe Fund will also maintain
asset coverage of at least 300% for all outstanding firm commitments, dollar
rolls and other borrowings. Notwithstanding such safeguards, the Funds' overall
investment exposure may be increased by such transactions to the extent that
each Fund bears a risk of loss on the securities it is committed to purchase, as
well as on the segregated assets.
Dollar rolls are treated for purposes of the 1940 Act as borrowings of
each Fund because they involve the sale of a security coupled with an agreement
to repurchase. Like all borrowings, a dollar roll involves costs to the Funds.
For example, while each Fund receives a fee as consideration for agreeing to
repurchase the security, each Fund forgoes the right to receive all principal
and interest payments while the counterparty holds the security. These payments
to the counterparty may exceed the fee received by the Funds, thereby
effectively charging each Fund interest on its borrowing. Further, although each
Fund can estimate the amount of expected principal prepayment over the term of
the dollar roll, a variation in the actual amount of prepayment could increase
or decrease the cost of the Funds' borrowing.
The entry into dollar rolls involves potential risks of loss which are
different from those of the securities underlying the transactions. For example,
if the counterparty becomes insolvent, the Funds' right to purchase from the
counterparty might be restricted. Additionally, the value of such securities may
change adversely before each Fund is able to purchase them. Similarly, each Fund
may be required to purchase securities in connection with a dollar roll at a
higher price than may otherwise be available on the open market. Since, as noted
above, the counterparty is required to deliver a similar, but not identical
security to each Fund, the security which each Fund is required to buy under the
dollar roll may be worth less than an identical security. Finally, there can be
no assurance that the Funds' use of the cash that it receives from a dollar roll
will provide a return that exceeds borrowing costs.
The Directors of the Corporation on behalf of the Funds have adopted
guidelines to ensure that those securities received are substantially identical
to those sold. To reduce the risk of default, each Fund will engage in such
transactions only with banks and broker-dealers selected pursuant to such
guidelines.
Repurchase Agreements. Each Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with
member banks of the Federal Reserve System, any foreign bank or with any
domestic or foreign broker/dealer which is recognized as a reporting government
securities dealer, if the creditworthiness of the bank or broker/dealer has been
determined by the Adviser to be at least as high as that of other obligations a
Fund may purchase. In addition, Global Bond Fund may enter into repurchase
agreements with any foreign bank or with any domestic or foreign broker/dealer
which is recognized as a reporting government securities dealer, if the
creditworthiness of the bank or broker/dealer has been determined by the Adviser
to be at least as high as that of other obligations the Fund may purchase.
A repurchase agreement provides a means for a Fund to earn income on
funds for periods as short as overnight. It is an arrangement under which the
purchaser (i.e., a Fund) acquires a debt security ("Obligation") and the seller
agrees, at the time of sale, to repurchase the Obligation at a specified time
and price. Securities subject to a repurchase agreement are held in a segregated
account and the value of such securities is kept at least equal to the
repurchase price on a daily basis. The repurchase price may be higher than the
purchase price, the difference being income to a Fund, or the purchase and
repurchase prices may be the same, with interest at a stated rate due to a Fund
together with the repurchase price on repurchase. In either case, the income to
a Fund is unrelated to the interest rate on the Obligation itself. Obligations
will be physically held by the Fund's custodian (Brown Brothers Harriman and Co.
for Global Bond Fund) or in the Federal Reserve Book Entry system.
For purposes of the 1940 Act, a repurchase agreement is deemed to be a
loan from a Fund to the seller of the Obligation subject to the repurchase
agreement and is therefore subject to that Fund's investment restrictions
applicable to loans. It is not clear whether a court would consider the
Obligation purchased by a Fund subject to a repurchase agreement as being owned
by the Fund or as being collateral for a loan by the Fund to the seller. In the
event of the commencement of bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings with respect
to the seller of the Obligation before repurchase of the Obligation under a
repurchase agreement, a Fund may encounter delay and incur costs before being
able to sell the security. Delays may involve loss of interest or decline in
price of the Obligation. If the court characterizes the
16
<PAGE>
transaction as a loan and a Fund has not perfected a security interest in the
Obligation, the Fund may be required to return the Obligation to the seller's
estate and be treated as an unsecured creditor of the seller. As an unsecured
creditor, a Fund would be at risk of losing some or the entire principal and
income involved in the transaction. As with any unsecured debt instrument
purchased for a Fund, the Adviser seeks to minimize the risk of loss through
repurchase agreements by analyzing the creditworthiness of the obligor, in this
case the seller of the Obligation. Apart from the risk of bankruptcy or
insolvency proceedings, there is also the risk that the seller may fail to
repurchase the security. However, if the market value of the Obligation subject
to the repurchase agreement becomes less than the repurchase price (including
interest), a Fund will direct the seller of the Obligation to deliver additional
securities so that the market value of all securities subject to the repurchase
agreement will equal or exceed the repurchase price. It is possible that a Fund
will be unsuccessful in seeking to enforce the seller's contractual obligation
to deliver additional securities. A repurchase agreement with foreign banks may
be available with respect to government securities of the particular foreign
jurisdiction, and such repurchase agreements involve risks similar to repurchase
agreements with U.S. entities.
Repurchase Commitments. Global Bond Fund may enter into repurchase commitments
with any party deemed creditworthy by the Adviser, including foreign banks and
broker/dealers, if the transaction is entered into for investment purposes and
the counterparty's creditworthiness is at least equal to that of issuers of
securities which a Fund may purchase. Such transactions may not provide a Fund
with collateral marked-to-market during the term of the commitment.
Indexed Securities. Each Fund may invest in indexed securities, the value of
which is linked to currencies, interest rates, commodities, indices or other
financial indicators ("reference instruments"). Most indexed securities have
maturities of three years or less.
Indexed securities differ from other types of debt securities in which
the Fund may invest in several respects. First, the interest rate or, unlike
other debt securities, the principal amount payable at maturity of an indexed
security may vary based on changes in one or more specified reference
instruments, such as an interest rate compared with a fixed interest rate or the
currency exchange rates between two currencies (neither of which need be the
currency in which the instrument is denominated). The reference instrument need
not be related to the terms of the indexed security. For example, the principal
amount of a U.S. dollar denominated indexed security may vary based on the
exchange rate of two foreign currencies. An indexed security may be positively
or negatively indexed; that is, its value may increase or
decrease if the value of the reference instrument increases. Further, the change
in the principal amount payable or the interest rate of an indexed security may
be a multiple of the percentage change (positive or negative) in the value of
the underlying reference instrument(s).
Investment in indexed securities involves certain risks. In addition to
the credit risk of the security's issuer and the normal risks of price changes
in response to changes in interest rates, the principal amount of indexed
securities may decrease as a result of changes in the value of reference
instruments. Further, in the case of certain indexed securities in which the
interest rate is linked to a reference instrument, the interest rate may be
reduced to zero, and any further declines in the value of the security may then
reduce the principal amount payable on maturity. Finally, indexed securities may
be more volatile than the reference instruments underlying indexed securities.
When-Issued Securities. Global Bond Fund may from time to time purchase
securities on a "when-issued" or "forward delivery" basis for payment and
delivery at a later date. The price of such securities, which may be expressed
in yield terms, is fixed at the time the commitment to purchase is made, but
delivery and payment for the when-issued or forward delivery securities takes
place at a later date. During the period between purchase and settlement, no
payment is made by a Fund to the issuer and no interest accrues to the Fund. To
the extent that assets of a Fund are held in cash pending the settlement of a
purchase of securities, the Fund would earn no income; however, it is the Fund's
intention to be fully invested to the extent practicable and subject to the
policies stated above. While when-issued or forward delivery securities may be
sold prior to the settlement date, a Fund intends to purchase such securities
with the purpose of actually acquiring them unless a sale appears desirable for
investment reasons. At the time a Fund makes the commitment to purchase a
security on a when-issued or forward delivery basis, it will record the
transaction and reflect the value of the security in determining its net asset
value. At the time of settlement, the market value of the when-issued or forward
delivery securities may be more or less than the purchase price. Each Fund does
not believe that its net asset value or income will be adversely affected by its
purchase of securities on a when-issued or forward delivery basis.
17
<PAGE>
Zero Coupon Securities. Each Fund may invest in zero coupon securities which pay
no cash income and are sold at substantial discounts from their value at
maturity. When held to maturity, their entire income, which consists of
accretion of discount, comes from the difference between the issue price and
their value at maturity. Zero coupon securities are subject to greater market
value fluctuations from changing interest rates than debt obligations of
comparable maturities which make current distributions of interest (cash). Zero
coupon securities which are convertible into common stock offer the opportunity
for capital appreciation as increases (or decreases) in market value of such
securities closely follows the movements in the market value of the underlying
common stock. Zero coupon convertible securities generally are expected to be
less volatile than the underlying common stocks, as they usually are issued with
maturities of 15 years or less and are issued with options and/or redemption
features exercisable by the holder of the obligation entitling the holder to
redeem the obligation and receive a defined cash payment.
Zero coupon securities include securities issued directly by the U.S.
Treasury, and U.S. Treasury bonds or notes and their unmatured interest coupons
and receipts for their underlying principal ("coupons") which have been
separated by their holder, typically a custodian bank or investment brokerage
firm. A holder will separate the interest coupons from the underlying principal
(the "corpus") of the U.S. Treasury security. A number of securities firms and
banks have stripped the interest coupons and receipts and then resold them in
custodial receipt programs with a number of different names, including "Treasury
Income Growth Receipts" (TIGRS(TM)) and Certificate of Accrual on Treasuries
(CATS(TM)). The underlying U.S. Treasury bonds and notes themselves are held in
book-entry form at the Federal Reserve Bank or, in the case of bearer securities
(i.e., unregistered securities which are owned ostensibly by the bearer or
holder thereof), in trust on behalf of the owners thereof. Counsel to the
underwriters of these certificates or other evidences of ownership of the U.S.
Treasury securities have stated that, for federal tax and securities purposes,
in their opinion purchasers of such certificates, such as the Fund, most likely
will be deemed the beneficial holder of the underlying U.S. Government
securities. The Fund understands that the staff of the Division of Investment
Management of the SEC no longer considers such privately stripped obligations to
be U.S. Government securities, as defined in the 1940 Act.
The U.S. Treasury has facilitated transfers of ownership of zero coupon
securities by accounting separately for the beneficial ownership of particular
interest coupon and corpus payments on Treasury securities through the Federal
Reserve book-entry record keeping system. The Federal Reserve program as
established by the Treasury Department is known as "STRIPS" or "Separate Trading
of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities." Under the STRIPS program,
the Fund will be able to have its beneficial ownership of zero coupon securities
recorded directly in the book-entry record-keeping system in lieu of having to
hold certificates or other evidences of ownership of the underlying U.S.
Treasury securities.
When U.S. Treasury obligations have been stripped of their unmatured interest
coupons by the holder, the principal or corpus is sold at a deep discount
because the buyer receives only the right to receive a future fixed payment on
the security and does not receive any rights to periodic interest (cash)
payments. Once stripped or separated, the corpus and coupons may be sold
separately. Typically, the coupons are sold separately or grouped with other
coupons with like maturity dates and sold bundled in such form. Purchasers of
stripped obligations acquire, in effect, discount obligations that are
economically identical to the zero coupon securities that the Treasury sells
itself (see "TAXES").
Lending of Portfolio Securities. Each Fund may seek to increase its income by
lending portfolio securities. Such loans may be made to registered
broker/dealers and are required to be secured continuously by collateral in
cash, U.S. Government Securities and liquid high grade debt obligations
maintained on a current basis at an amount at least equal to the market value
and accrued interest of the securities loaned. Each Fund has the right to call a
loan and obtain the securities loaned on no more than five days' notice. During
the existence of a loan, a Fund will continue to receive the equivalent of any
distributions paid by the issuer on the securities loaned and will also receive
compensation based on investment of the collateral. As with other extensions of
credit there are risks of delay in recovery or even loss of rights in the
collateral should the borrower of the securities fail financially. However, the
loans will be made only to firms deemed by the Adviser to be in good standing.
The value of the securities loaned will not exceed 5% of the value of a Funds'
total assets at the time any loan is made.
18
<PAGE>
Mortgage-Backed Securities and Mortgage Pass-Through Securities. Global Bond
Fund may also invest in mortgage-backed securities, which are interests in pools
of mortgage loans, including mortgage loans made by savings and loan
institutions, mortgage bankers, commercial banks and others. Pools of mortgage
loans are assembled as securities for sale to investors by various governmental,
government-related and private organizations as further described below. The
Fund may also invest in debt securities which are secured with collateral
consisting of mortgage-backed securities (see "Collateralized Mortgage
Obligations"), and in other types of mortgage-related securities.
A decline in interest rates may lead to a faster rate of repayment of
the underlying mortgages, and expose the Fund to a lower rate of return upon
reinvestment. To the extent that such mortgage-backed securities are held by the
Fund, the prepayment right will tend to limit to some degree the increase in net
asset value of the Fund because the value of the mortgage-backed securities held
by the Fund may not appreciate as rapidly as the price of non-callable debt
securities.
When interest rates rise, mortgage prepayment rates tend to decline,
thus lengthening the life of mortgage-related securities and increasing their
volatility, affecting the price volatility of the Fund's shares.
Interests in pools of mortgage-backed securities differ from other
forms of debt securities, which normally provide for periodic payment of
interest in fixed amounts with principal payments at maturity or specified call
dates. Instead, these securities provide a monthly payment which consists of
both interest and principal payments. In effect, these payments are a
"pass-through" of the monthly payments made by the individual borrowers on their
mortgage loans, net of any fees paid to the issuer or guarantor of such
securities. Additional payments are caused by repayments of principal resulting
from the sale of the underlying property, refinancing or foreclosure, net of
fees or costs which may be incurred. Because principal may be prepaid at any
time, mortgage-backed securities may involve significantly greater price and
yield volatility than traditional debt securities. Some mortgage-related
securities (such as securities issued by the Government National Mortgage
Association) are described as "modified pass-through." These securities entitle
the holder to receive all interest and principal payments owed on the mortgage
pool, net of certain fees, at the scheduled payment dates regardless of whether
or not the mortgagor actually makes the payment.
The principal governmental guarantor of mortgage-related securities is
the Government National Mortgage Association ("GNMA"). GNMA is a wholly-owned
U.S. Government corporation within the Department of Housing and Urban
Development. GNMA is authorized to guarantee, with the full faith and credit of
the U.S. Government, the timely payment of principal and interest on securities
issued by institutions approved by GNMA (such as savings and loan institutions,
commercial banks and mortgage bankers) and backed by pools of FHA-insured or
VA-guaranteed mortgages. These guarantees, however, do not apply to the market
value or yield of mortgage-backed securities or to the value of Fund shares.
Also, GNMA securities often are purchased at a premium over the maturity value
of the underlying mortgages. This premium is not guaranteed and will be lost if
prepayment occurs.
Government-related guarantors (i.e., not backed by the full faith and
credit of the U.S. Government) include the Federal National Mortgage Association
("FNMA") and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("FHLMC"). FNMA is a
government-sponsored corporation owned entirely by private stockholders. It is
subject to general regulation by the Secretary of Housing and Urban Development.
FNMA purchases conventional (i.e., not insured or guaranteed by any government
agency) mortgages from a list of approved seller/servicers which include state
and federally-chartered savings and loan associations, mutual savings banks,
commercial banks and credit unions and mortgage bankers. Pass- through
securities issued by FNMA are guaranteed as to timely payment of principal and
interest by FNMA but are not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S.
Government.
FHLMC is a corporate instrumentality of the U.S. Government and was
created by Congress in 1970 for the purpose of increasing the availability of
mortgage credit for residential housing. Its stock is owned by the twelve
Federal Home Loan Banks. FHLMC issues Participation Certificates ("PCs") which
represent interests in conventional mortgages from FHLMC's national portfolio.
FHLMC guarantees the timely payment of interest and ultimate collection of
principal, but PCs are not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S.
Government.
Commercial banks, savings and loan institutions, private mortgage
insurance companies, mortgage bankers and other secondary market issuers also
create pass-through pools of conventional mortgage loans. Such issuers may, in
19
<PAGE>
addition, be the originators and/or servicers of the underlying mortgage loans
as well as the guarantors of the mortgage-related securities. Pools created by
such non-governmental issuers generally offer a higher rate of interest than
government and government-related pools because there are no direct or indirect
government or agency guarantees of payments. However, timely payment of interest
and principal of these pools may be supported by various forms of insurance or
guarantees, including individual loan, title, pool and hazard insurance and
letters of credit. The insurance and guarantees are issued by governmental
entities, private insurers and the mortgage poolers. Such insurance and
guarantees and the creditworthiness of the issuers thereof will be considered in
determining whether a mortgage-related security meets the Fund's investment
quality standards. There can be no assurance that the private insurers or
guarantors can meet their obligations under the insurance policies or guarantee
arrangements. Global Bond Fund may buy mortgage-related securities without
insurance or guarantees, if through an examination of the loan experience and
practices of the originators/servicers and poolers, the Adviser determines that
the securities meet the Fund's quality standards. Although the market for such
securities is becoming increasingly liquid, securities issued by certain private
organizations may not be readily marketable.
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations ("CMO"s). Global Bond Fund may invest in
CMOs. A CMO is a hybrid between a mortgage-backed bond and a mortgage
pass-through security. Similar to a bond, interest and prepaid principal are
paid, in most cases, semiannually. CMOs may be collateralized by whole mortgage
loans but are more typically collateralized by portfolios of mortgage
pass-through securities guaranteed by GNMA, FHLMC, or FNMA, and their income
streams.
CMOs are structured into multiple classes, each bearing a different
stated maturity. Actual maturity and average life will depend upon the
prepayment experience of the collateral. CMOs provide for a modified form of
call protection through a de facto breakdown of the underlying pool of mortgages
according to how quickly the loans are repaid. Monthly payment of principal
received from the pool of underlying mortgages, including prepayments, is first
returned to investors holding the shortest maturity class. Investors holding the
longer maturity classes receive principal only after the first class has been
retired. An investor is partially guarded against a sooner than desired return
of principal because of the sequential payments. The prices of certain CMOs,
depending on their structure and the rate of prepayments, can be volatile. Some
CMOs may not be as liquid as other securities.
In a typical CMO transaction, a corporation issues multiple series,
(e.g., A, B, C, Z) of CMO bonds ("Bonds"). Proceeds of the Bond offering are
used to purchase mortgages or mortgage pass-through certificates ("Collateral").
The Collateral is pledged to a third party director as security for the Bonds.
Principal and interest payments from the Collateral are used to pay principal on
the Bonds in the order A, B, C, Z. The Series A, B, and C bonds all bear current
interest. Interest on the Series Z Bond is accrued and added to principal and a
like amount is paid as principal on the Series A, B, or C Bond currently being
paid off. When the Series A, B, and C Bonds are paid in full, interest and
principal on the Series Z Bond begins to be paid currently. With some CMOs, the
issuer serves as a conduit to allow loan originators (primarily builders or
savings and loan associations) to borrow against their loan portfolios.
FHLMC Collateralized Mortgage Obligations. FHLMC CMOs are debt obligations of
FHLMC issued in multiple classes having different maturity dates which are
secured by the pledge of a pool of conventional mortgage loans purchased by
FHLMC. Unlike FHLMC PCs, payments of principal and interest on the CMOs are made
semiannually, as opposed to monthly. The amount of principal payable on each
semiannual payment date is determined in accordance with FHLMC's mandatory
sinking fund schedule, which, in turn, is equal to approximately 100% of FHA
prepayment experience applied to the mortgage collateral pool. All sinking fund
payments in the CMOs are allocated to the retirement of the individual classes
of bonds in the order of their stated maturities. Payment of principal on the
mortgage loans in the collateral pool in excess of the amount of FHLMC's minimum
sinking fund obligation for any payment date are paid to the holders of the CMOs
as additional sinking fund payments. Because of the "pass-through" nature of all
principal payments received on the collateral pool in excess of FHLMC's minimum
sinking fund requirement, the rate at which principal of the CMOs is actually
repaid is likely to be such that each class of bonds will be retired in advance
of its scheduled maturity date.
If collection of principal (including prepayments) on the mortgage
loans during any semiannual payment period is not sufficient to meet FHLMC's
minimum sinking fund obligation on the next sinking fund payment date, FHLMC
agrees to make up the deficiency from its general funds.
20
<PAGE>
Criteria for the mortgage loans in the pool backing the CMOs are
identical to those of FHLMC PCs. FHLMC has the right to substitute collateral in
the event of delinquencies and/or defaults.
Other Mortgage-Backed Securities. The Adviser expects that governmental,
government-related or private entities may create mortgage loan pools and other
mortgage-related securities offering mortgage pass-through and mortgage-
collateralized investments in addition to those described above. The mortgages
underlying these securities may include alternative mortgage instruments, that
is, mortgage instruments whose principal or interest payments may vary or whose
terms to maturity may differ from customary long-term fixed rate mortgages.
Global Bond Fund will not purchase mortgage-backed securities or any other
assets which, in the opinion of the Adviser, are illiquid, in accordance with
the nonfundamental investment restriction on securities which are not readily
marketable discussed below. As new types of mortgage-related securities are
developed and offered to investors, the Adviser will, consistent with Global
Bond Fund's investment objective, policies and quality standards, consider
making investments in such new types of mortgage-related securities.
Other Asset-Backed Securities. The securitization techniques used to develop
mortgage-backed securities are now being applied to a broad range of assets.
Through the use of trusts and special purpose corporations, various types of
assets, including automobile loans, computer leases and credit card receivables,
are being securitized in pass-through structures similar to the mortgage
pass-through structures described above or in a structure similar to the CMO
structure. Consistent with the Fund's investment objectives and policies, Global
Bond Fund may invest in these and other types of asset-backed securities that
may be developed in the future. In general, the collateral supporting these
securities is of shorter maturity than mortgage loans and is less likely to
experience substantial prepayments with interest rate fluctuations.
Several types of asset-backed securities have already been offered to
investors, including Certificates of Automobile ReceivablesSM ("CARSSM"). CARSSM
represent undivided fractional interests in a trust whose assets consist of a
pool of motor vehicle retail installment sales contracts and security interests
in the vehicles securing the contracts. Payments of principal and interest on
CARSSM are passed through monthly to certificate holders, and are guaranteed up
to certain amounts and for a certain time period by a letter of credit issued by
a financial institution unaffiliated with the directors or originator of the
Corporation. An investor's return on CARSSM may be affected by early prepayment
of principal on the underlying vehicle sales contracts. If the letter of credit
is exhausted, the Corporation may be prevented from realizing the full amount
due on a sales contract because of state law requirements and restrictions
relating to foreclosure sales of vehicles and the obtaining of deficiency
judgments following such sales or because of depreciation, damage or loss of a
vehicle, the application of federal and state bankruptcy and insolvency laws, or
other factors. As a result, certificate holders may experience delays in
payments or losses if the letter of credit is exhausted.
Asset-backed securities present certain risks that are not presented by
mortgage-backed securities. Primarily, these securities may not have the benefit
of any security interest in the related assets. Credit card receivables are
generally unsecured and the debtors are entitled to the protection of a number
of state and federal consumer credit laws, many of which give such debtors the
right to set off certain amounts owed on the credit cards, thereby reducing the
balance due. There is the possibility that recoveries on repossessed collateral
may not, in some cases, be available to support payments on these securities.
Asset-backed securities are often backed by a pool of assets
representing the obligations of a number of different parties. To lessen the
effect of failures by obligors on underlying assets to make payments, the
securities may contain elements of credit support which fall into two
categories: (i) liquidity protection, and (ii) protection against losses
resulting from ultimate default by an obligor on the underlying assets.
Liquidity protection refers to the provision of advances, generally by the
entity administering the pool of assets, to ensure that the receipt of payments
on the underlying pool occurs in a timely fashion. Protection against losses
resulting from default ensures ultimate payment of the obligations on at least a
portion of the assets in the pool. This protection may be provided through
insurance policies or letters of credit obtained by the issuer or sponsor from
third parties, through various means of structuring the transaction or through a
combination of such approaches. Global Bond Fund will not pay any additional or
separate fees for credit support. The degree of credit support provided for each
issue is generally based on historical information respecting the level of
credit risk associated with the underlying assets. Delinquency or loss in excess
of that anticipated or failure of the credit support could adversely affect the
return on an investment in such a security.
21
<PAGE>
Global Bond Fund may also invest in residual interests in asset-backed
securities. In the case of asset-backed securities issued in a pass-through
structure, the cash flow generated by the underlying assets is applied to make
required payments on the securities and to pay related administrative expenses.
The residual in an asset-backed security pass-through structure represents the
interest in any excess cash flow remaining after making the foregoing payments.
The amount of residual cash flow resulting from a particular issue of
asset-backed securities will depend on, among other things, the characteristics
of the underlying assets, the coupon rates on the securities, prevailing
interest rates, the amount of administrative expenses and the actual prepayment
experience on the underlying assets. Asset-backed security residuals not
registered under the 1933 Act may be subject to certain restrictions on
transferability. In addition, there may be no liquid market for such securities.
The availability of asset-backed securities may be affected by
legislative or regulatory developments. It is possible that such developments
may require Global Bond Fund to dispose of any then existing holdings of such
securities.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements. Emerging Markets Income Fund may enter into
"reverse repurchase agreements," which are repurchase agreements in which the
Fund, as the seller of the securities, agrees to repurchase them at an agreed
time and price. The Fund maintains a segregated account in connection with
outstanding reverse repurchase agreements. The Fund will enter into reverse
repurchase agreements only when the Adviser believes that the interest income to
be earned from the investment of the proceeds of the transaction will be greater
than the interest expense of the transaction.
Borrowing. As a matter of fundamental policy, each Fund will not borrow money,
except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or
modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time. While
the Directors do not currently intend to borrow for investment leverage
purposes, if such a strategy were implemented in the future it would increase
the Funds' volatility and the risk of loss in a declining market. Borrowing by a
Fund will involve special risk considerations. Although the principal of a
Fund's borrowings will be fixed, a Fund's assets may change in value during the
time a borrowing is outstanding, thus increasing exposure to capital risk.
Synthetic Investments. In certain circumstances, Emerging Markets Income Fund
may wish to obtain the price performance of a security without actually
purchasing the security in circumstances where, for example, the security is
illiquid, or is unavailable for direct investment or available only on less
attractive terms. In such circumstances, the Fund may invest in synthetic or
derivative alternative investments ("Synthetic Investments") that are based upon
or otherwise relate to the economic performance of the underlying securities.
Synthetic Investments may include swap transactions, notes or units with
variable redemption amounts, and other similar instruments and contracts.
Synthetic Investments typically do not represent beneficial ownership of the
underlying security, usually are not collateralized or otherwise secured by the
counterparty and may or may not have any credit enhancements attached to them.
Accordingly, Synthetic Investments involve exposure not only to the
creditworthiness of the issuer of the underlying security, changes in exchange
rates and future governmental actions taken by the jurisdiction in which the
underlying security is issued, but also to the creditworthiness and legal
standing of the counterparties involved. In addition, Synthetic Investments
typically are illiquid
Strategic Transactions and Derivatives. Each Fund may, but are not required to,
utilize various other investment strategies as described below for a variety of
purposes, such as hedging various market risks, managing the effective maturity
or duration of the fixed-income securities in each Fund's portfolio or enhancing
potential gain. These strategies may be executed through the use of derivative
contracts.
In the course of pursuing these investment strategies, a Fund may
purchase and sell exchange-listed and over-the-counter put and call options on
securities, equity and fixed-income indices and other instruments, purchase and
sell futures contracts and options thereon, enter into various transactions such
as swaps, caps, floors, collars, currency forward contracts, currency futures
contracts, currency swaps or options on currencies, or currency futures and
various other currency transactions (collectively, all the above are called
"Strategic Transactions"). In addition, strategic transactions may also include
new techniques, instruments or strategies that are permitted as regulatory
changes occur. Strategic Transactions may be used without limit (subject to
certain limits imposed by the 1940 Act) to attempt to protect against possible
changes in the market value of securities held in or to be purchased for a
Fund's portfolio resulting from securities markets or currency exchange rate
fluctuations, to protect a Fund's unrealized gains in the value of its portfolio
securities, to facilitate the sale of such securities for investment purposes,
to manage the effective
22
<PAGE>
maturity or duration of a Fund's portfolio, or to establish a position in the
derivatives markets as a substitute for purchasing or selling particular
securities. Some Strategic Transactions may also be used to enhance potential
gain although no more than 5% of a Fund's assets will be committed to Strategic
Transactions entered into for non-hedging purposes. Any or all of these
investment techniques may be used at any time and in any combination, and there
is no particular strategy that dictates the use of one technique rather than
another, as use of any Strategic Transaction is a function of numerous variables
including market conditions. The ability of a Fund to utilize these Strategic
Transactions successfully will depend on the Adviser's ability to predict
pertinent market movements, which cannot be assured. Each Fund will comply with
applicable regulatory requirements when implementing these strategies,
techniques and instruments. Strategic Transactions will not be used to alter
fundamental investment purposes and characteristics of the Fund, and the Fund
will segregate assets (or as provided by applicable regulations, enter into
certain offsetting positions) to cover its obligations under options, futures
and swaps to limit leveraging of the Fund.
Strategic Transactions, including derivative contracts, have risks
associated with them including possible default by the other party to the
transaction, illiquidity and, to the extent the Adviser's view as to certain
market movements is incorrect, the risk that the use of such Strategic
Transactions could result in losses greater than if they had not been used. Use
of put and call options may result in losses to a Fund, force the sale or
purchase of portfolio securities at inopportune times or for prices higher than
(in the case of put options) or lower than (in the case of call options) current
market values, limit the amount of appreciation a Fund can realize on its
investments or cause a Fund to hold a security it might otherwise sell. The use
of currency transactions can result in a Fund incurring losses as a result of a
number of factors including the imposition of exchange controls, suspension of
settlements, or the inability to deliver or receive a specified currency. The
use of options and futures transactions entails certain other risks. In
particular, the variable degree of correlation between price movements of
futures contracts and price movements in the related portfolio position of a
Fund creates the possibility that losses on the hedging instrument may be
greater than gains in the value of a Fund's position. In addition, futures and
options markets may not be liquid in all circumstances and certain
over-the-counter options may have no markets. As a result, in certain markets, a
Fund might not be able to close out a transaction without incurring substantial
losses, if at all. Although the use of futures and options transactions for
hedging should tend to minimize the risk of loss due to a decline in the value
of the hedged position, at the same time they tend to limit any potential gain
which might result from an increase in value of such position. Finally, the
daily variation margin requirements for futures contracts would create a greater
ongoing potential financial risk than would purchases of options, where the
exposure is limited to the cost of the initial premium. Losses resulting from
the use of Strategic Transactions would reduce net asset value, and possibly
income, and such losses can be greater than if the Strategic Transactions had
not been utilized.
General Characteristics of Options. Put options and call options typically have
similar structural characteristics and operational mechanics regardless of the
underlying instrument on which they are purchased or sold. Thus, the following
general discussion relates to each of the particular types of options discussed
in greater detail below. In addition, many Strategic Transactions involving
options require segregation of Fund assets in special accounts, as described
below under "Use of Segregated and Other Special Accounts."
A put option gives the purchaser of the option, upon payment of a
premium, the right to sell, and the writer the obligation to buy, the underlying
security, commodity, index, currency or other instrument at the exercise price.
For instance, a Fund's purchase of a put option on a security might be designed
to protect its holdings in the underlying instrument (or, in some cases, a
similar instrument) against a substantial decline in the market value by giving
a Fund the right to sell such instrument at the option exercise price. A call
option, upon payment of a premium, gives the purchaser of the option the right
to buy, and the seller the obligation to sell, the underlying instrument at the
exercise price. A Fund's purchase of a call option on a security, financial
future, index, currency or other instrument might be intended to protect a Fund
against an increase in the price of the underlying instrument that it intends to
purchase in the future by fixing the price at which it may purchase such
instrument. An American style put or call option may be exercised at any time
during the option period while a European style put or call option may be
exercised only upon expiration or during a fixed period prior thereto. Each Fund
is authorized to purchase and sell exchange listed options and over-the-counter
options ("OTC options"). Exchange listed options are issued by a regulated
intermediary such as the Options Clearing Corporation ("OCC"), which guarantees
the performance of the obligations of the parties to such options. The
discussion below uses the OCC as an example, but is also applicable to other
financial intermediaries.
With certain exceptions, OCC issued and exchange listed options
generally settle by physical delivery of the underlying security or currency,
although in the future cash settlement may become available. Index options and
23
<PAGE>
Eurodollar instruments are cash settled for the net amount, if any, by which the
option is "in-the-money" (i.e., where the value of the underlying instrument
exceeds, in the case of a call option, or is less than, in the case of a put
option, the exercise price of the option) at the time the option is exercised.
Frequently, rather than taking or making delivery of the underlying instrument
through the process of exercising the option, listed options are closed by
entering into offsetting purchase or sale transactions that do not result in
ownership of the new option.
A Fund's ability to close out its position as a purchaser or seller of
an OCC or exchange listed put or call option is dependent, in part, upon the
liquidity of the option market. Among the possible reasons for the absence of a
liquid option market on an exchange are: (i) insufficient trading interest in
certain options; (ii) restrictions on transactions imposed by an exchange; (iii)
trading halts, suspensions or other restrictions imposed with respect to
particular classes or series of options or underlying securities including
reaching daily price limits; (iv) interruption of the normal operations of the
OCC or an exchange; (v) inadequacy of the facilities of an exchange or OCC to
handle current trading volume; or (vi) a decision by one or more exchanges to
discontinue the trading of options (or a particular class or series of options),
in which event the relevant market for that option on that exchange would cease
to exist, although outstanding options on that exchange would generally continue
to be exercisable in accordance with their terms.
The hours of trading for listed options may not coincide with the hours
during which the underlying financial instruments are traded. To the extent that
the option markets close before the markets for the underlying financial
instruments, significant price and rate movements can take place in the
underlying markets that cannot be reflected in the option markets.
OTC options are purchased from or sold to securities dealers, financial
institutions or other parties ("Counterparties") through direct bilateral
agreement with the Counterparty. In contrast to exchange listed options, which
generally have standardized terms and performance mechanics, all the terms of an
OTC option, including such terms as method of settlement, term, exercise price,
premium, guarantees and security, are set by negotiation of the parties. Each
Fund will only sell OTC options (other than OTC currency options) that are
subject to a buy-back provision permitting a Fund to require the Counterparty to
sell the option back to a Fund at a formula price within seven days. Each Fund
expects generally to enter into OTC options that have cash settlement
provisions, although it is not required to do so.
Unless the parties provide for it, there is no central clearing or
guaranty function in an OTC option. As a result, if the Counterparty fails to
make or take delivery of the security, currency or other instrument underlying
an OTC option it has entered into with a Fund or fails to make a cash settlement
payment due in accordance with the terms of that option, a Fund will lose any
premium it paid for the option as well as any anticipated benefit of the
transaction. Accordingly, the Adviser must assess the creditworthiness of each
such Counterparty or any guarantor or credit enhancement of the Counterparty's
credit to determine the likelihood that the terms of the OTC option will be
satisfied. Each Fund will engage in OTC option transactions only with U.S.
government securities dealers recognized by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York
as "primary dealers" or broker/dealers, domestic or foreign banks or other
financial institutions which have received (or the guarantors of the obligation
of which have received) a short-term credit rating of A-1 from S&P or P-1 from
Moody's or an equivalent rating from any nationally recognized statistical
rating organization ("NRSRO") or, in the case of OTC currency transactions, are
determined to be of equivalent credit quality by the Adviser. The staff of the
Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") currently takes the position that
OTC options purchased by a Fund, and portfolio securities "covering" the amount
of a Fund's obligation pursuant to an OTC option sold by it (the cost of the
sell-back plus the in-the-money amount, if any) are illiquid, and are subject to
each Fund's limitation on investing no more than 15% of its net assets in
illiquid securities.
If a Fund sells a call option, the premium that it receives may serve
as a partial hedge, to the extent of the option premium, against a decrease in
the value of the underlying securities or instruments in its portfolio or will
increase a Fund's income. The sale of put options can also provide income.
Each Fund may purchase and sell call options on securities including
U.S. Treasury and agency securities, mortgage-backed securities, foreign
sovereign debt, corporate debt securities, equity securities (including
convertible securities) and Eurodollar instruments that are traded on U.S. and
foreign securities exchanges and in the over-the-counter markets, and on
securities indices, currencies and futures contracts. Each Fund will not
purchase call options unless the aggregate premiums paid on all options held by
the Fund at any time do not exceed 20% of its total assets. All calls sold by a
Fund must be "covered" (i.e., a Fund must own the securities or futures contract
subject to the call) or
24
<PAGE>
must meet the asset segregation requirements described below as long as the call
is outstanding. Even though a Fund will receive the option premium to help
protect it against loss, a call sold by a Fund exposes that Fund during the term
of the option to possible loss of opportunity to realize appreciation in the
market price of the underlying security or instrument and may require that Fund
to hold a security or instrument which it might otherwise have sold.
Each Fund may purchase and sell put options on securities including
U.S. Treasury and agency securities, mortgage-backed securities, foreign
sovereign debt, corporate debt securities, equity securities (including
convertible securities) and Eurodollar instruments (whether or not it holds the
above securities in its portfolio), and on securities indices, currencies and
futures contracts other than futures on individual corporate debt and individual
equity securities. Each Fund will not purchase put options unless the aggregate
premiums paid on all options held by the Fund at any time do not exceed 20% of
its total assets. Each Fund will not sell put options if, as a result, more than
50% of a Fund's total assets would be required to be segregated to cover its
potential obligations under such put options other than those with respect to
futures and options thereon. In selling put options, there is a risk that a Fund
may be required to buy the underlying security at a disadvantageous price above
the market price.
General Characteristics of Futures. Each Fund may enter into futures contracts
or purchase or sell put and call options on such futures as a hedge against
anticipated interest rate, currency or equity market changes, and for duration
management, risk management, and return enhancement purposes. Futures are
generally bought and sold on the commodities exchanges where they are listed,
with payment of initial and variation margin as described below. The sale of a
futures contract creates a firm obligation by a Fund, as seller, to deliver to
the buyer the specific type of instrument called for in the contract at a
specific future time for a specified price (or, with respect to index futures
and Eurodollar instruments, the net cash amount). Options on futures contracts
are similar to options on securities except that an option on a futures contract
gives the purchaser the right in return for the premium paid to assume a
position in a futures contract and obligates the seller to deliver such
position.
Each Fund's use of futures and options thereon will in all cases be
consistent with applicable regulatory requirements and in particular the rules
and regulations of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and will be entered
into for bona fide hedging, risk management (including duration management) or
other portfolio and return enhancement management purposes. Typically,
maintaining a futures contract or selling an option thereon requires a Fund to
deposit with a financial intermediary as security for its obligations an amount
of cash or other specified assets (initial margin) which initially is typically
1% to 10% of the face amount of the contract (but may be higher in some
circumstances). Additional cash or assets (variation margin) may be required to
be deposited thereafter on a daily basis as the mark to market value of the
contract fluctuates. The purchase of an option on financial futures involves
payment of a premium for the option without any further obligation on the part
of a Fund. If a Fund exercises an option on a futures contract it will be
obligated to post initial margin (and potential subsequent variation margin) for
the resulting futures position just as it would for any position. Futures
contracts and options thereon are generally settled by entering into an
offsetting transaction but there can be no assurance that the position can be
offset prior to settlement at an advantageous price, nor that delivery will
occur.
Each Fund will not enter into a futures contract or related option
(except for closing transactions) if, immediately thereafter, the sum of the
amount of its initial margin and premiums on open futures contracts and options
thereon would exceed 5% of that Fund's total assets (taken at current value);
however, in the case of an option that is in-the-money at the time of the
purchase, the in-the-money amount may be excluded in calculating the 5%
limitation. The segregation requirements with respect to futures contracts and
options thereon are described below.
Options on Securities Indices and Other Financial Indices. Each Fund also may
purchase and sell call and put options on securities indices and other financial
indices and in so doing can achieve many of the same objectives it would achieve
through the sale or purchase of options on individual securities or other
instruments. Options on securities indices and other financial indices are
similar to options on a security or other instrument except that, rather than
settling by physical delivery of the underlying instrument, they settle by cash
settlement, i.e., an option on an index gives the holder the right to receive,
upon exercise of the option, an amount of cash if the closing level of the index
upon which the option is based exceeds, in the case of a call, or is less than,
in the case of a put, the exercise price of the option (except if, in the case
of an OTC option, physical delivery is specified). This amount of cash is equal
to the excess of the closing price of the index over the exercise price of the
option, which also may be multiplied by a formula value. The seller of the
option is obligated, in return for the premium received, to make delivery of
this amount. The gain or loss on an option on an index depends on price
movements in the instruments making up the market, market
25
<PAGE>
segment, industry or other composite on which the underlying index is based,
rather than price movements in individual securities, as is the case with
respect to options on securities.
Currency Transactions. Each Fund may engage in currency transactions with
Counterparties primarily in order to hedge, or manage the risk of the value of
portfolio holdings denominated in particular currencies against fluctuations in
relative value. Currency transactions include forward currency contracts,
exchange listed currency futures, exchange listed and OTC options on currencies,
and currency swaps. A forward currency contract involves a privately negotiated
obligation to purchase or sell (with delivery generally required) a specific
currency at a future date, which may be any fixed number of days from the date
of the contract agreed upon by the parties, at a price set at the time of the
contract. A currency swap is an agreement to exchange cash flows based on the
notional difference among two or more currencies and operates similarly to an
interest rate swap, which is described below. Each Fund may enter into currency
transactions with Counterparties which have received (or the guarantors of the
obligations which have received) a credit rating of A-1 or P-1 by S&P or
Moody's, respectively, or that have an equivalent rating from a NRSRO or (except
for OTC currency options) are determined to be of equivalent credit quality by
the Adviser.
Each Fund's dealings in forward currency contracts and other currency
transactions such as futures, options, options on futures and swaps generally
will be limited to hedging involving either specific transactions or portfolio
positions except as described below. Transaction hedging is entering into a
currency transaction with respect to specific assets or liabilities of a Fund,
which will generally arise in connection with the purchase or sale of its
portfolio securities or the receipt of income therefrom. Position hedging is
entering into a currency transaction with respect to portfolio security
positions denominated or generally quoted in that currency.
Each Fund generally will not enter into a transaction to hedge currency
exposure to an extent greater, after netting all transactions intended wholly or
partially to offset other transactions, than the aggregate market value (at the
time of entering into the transaction) of the securities held in its portfolio
that are denominated or generally quoted in or currently convertible into such
currency, other than with respect to proxy hedging or cross hedging as described
below.
Each Fund may also cross-hedge currencies by entering into transactions
to purchase or sell one or more currencies that are expected to decline in value
relative to other currencies to which that Fund has or in which that Fund
expects to have portfolio exposure.
To reduce the effect of currency fluctuations on the value of existing
or anticipated holdings of portfolio securities, each Fund may also engage in
proxy hedging. Proxy hedging is often used when the currency to which a Fund's
portfolio is exposed is difficult to hedge or to hedge against the dollar. Proxy
hedging entails entering into a commitment or option to sell a currency whose
changes in value are generally considered to be correlated to a currency or
currencies in which some or all of a Fund's portfolio securities are or are
expected to be denominated, in exchange for U.S. dollars. The amount of the
commitment or option would not exceed the value of that Fund's securities
denominated in correlated currencies. For example, if the Adviser considers that
the Austrian schilling is correlated to the German deutschemark (the "D-mark"),
a Fund holds securities denominated in schillings and the Adviser believes that
the value of schillings will decline against the U.S. dollar, the Adviser may
enter into a commitment or option to sell D-marks and buy dollars. Currency
hedging involves some of the same risks and considerations as other transactions
with similar instruments. Currency transactions can result in losses to a Fund
if the currency being hedged fluctuates in value to a degree or in a direction
that is not anticipated. Further, there is the risk that the perceived
correlation between various currencies may not be present or may not be present
during the particular time that a Fund is engaging in proxy hedging. If a Fund
enters into a currency hedging transaction, that Fund will comply with the asset
segregation requirements described below.
Risks of Currency Transactions. Currency transactions are subject to risks
different from those of other portfolio transactions. Because currency control
is of great importance to the issuing governments and influences economic
planning and policy, purchases and sales of currency and related instruments can
be negatively affected by government exchange controls, blockages, and
manipulations or exchange restrictions imposed by governments. These can result
in losses to a Fund if it is unable to deliver or receive currency or funds in
settlement of obligations and could also cause hedges it has entered into to be
rendered useless, resulting in full currency exposure as well as incurring
transaction costs. Buyers and sellers of currency futures are subject to the
same risks that apply to the use of futures generally. Further, settlement of a
currency futures contract for the purchase of most currencies must occur at a
bank based in the issuing nation. Trading options on currency futures is
relatively new, and the ability to establish and close out positions
26
<PAGE>
on such options is subject to the maintenance of a liquid market which may not
always be available. Currency exchange rates may fluctuate based on factors
extrinsic to that country's economy.
Combined Transactions. Each Fund may enter into multiple transactions, including
multiple options transactions, multiple futures transactions, multiple currency
transactions (including forward currency contracts) and multiple interest rate
transactions and any combination of futures, options, currency and interest rate
transactions ("component" transactions), instead of a single Strategic
Transaction, as part of a single or combined strategy when, in the opinion of
the Adviser, it is in the best interests of a Fund to do so. A combined
transaction will usually contain elements of risk that are present in each of
its component transactions. Although combined transactions are normally entered
into based on the Adviser's judgment that the combined strategies will reduce
risk or otherwise more effectively achieve the desired portfolio management
goal, it is possible that the combination will instead increase such risks or
hinder achievement of the portfolio management objective.
Swaps, Caps, Floors and Collars. Among the Strategic Transactions into which
each Fund may enter are interest rate, currency, index and other swaps and the
purchase or sale of related caps, floors and collars. Each Fund expects to enter
into these transactions primarily to preserve a return or spread on a particular
investment or portion of its portfolio, to protect against currency
fluctuations, as a duration management technique or to protect against any
increase in the price of securities a Fund anticipates purchasing at a later
date. Each Fund will not sell interest rate caps or floors where it does not own
securities or other instruments providing the income stream a Fund may be
obligated to pay. Interest rate swaps involve the exchange by a Fund with
another party of their respective commitments to pay or receive interest, e.g.,
an exchange of floating rate payments for fixed rate payments with respect to a
notional amount of principal. A currency swap is an agreement to exchange cash
flows on a notional amount of two or more currencies based on the relative value
differential among them and an index swap is an agreement to swap cash flows on
a notional amount based on changes in the values of the reference indices. The
purchase of a cap entitles the purchaser to receive payments on a notional
principal amount from the party selling such cap to the extent that a specified
index exceeds a predetermined interest rate or amount. The purchase of a floor
entitles the purchaser to receive payments on a notional principal amount from
the party selling such floor to the extent that a specified index falls below a
predetermined interest rate or amount. A collar is a combination of a cap and a
floor that preserves a certain return within a predetermined range of interest
rates or values.
Each Fund will usually enter into swaps on a net basis, i.e., the two
payment streams are netted out in a cash settlement on the payment date or dates
specified in the instrument, with a Fund receiving or paying, as the case may
be, only the net amount of the two payments. Inasmuch as the Fund will segregate
assets (or enter into offsetting positions) to cover its obligations under
swaps, the Adviser and the Funds believe such obligations do not constitute
senior securities under the 1940 Act and, accordingly, will not treat them as
being subject to its borrowing restrictions. Each Fund will not enter into any
swap, cap, floor or collar transaction unless, at the time of entering into such
transaction, the unsecured long-term debt of the Counterparty, combined with any
credit enhancements, is rated at least A by S&P or Moody's or has an equivalent
rating from a NRSRO or is determined to be of equivalent credit quality by the
Adviser. If there is a default by the Counterparty, the Fund may have
contractual remedies pursuant to the agreements related to the transaction. The
swap market has grown substantially in recent years with a large number of banks
and investment banking firms acting both as principals and as agents utilizing
standardized swap documentation. As a result, the swap market has become
relatively liquid. Caps, floors and collars are more recent innovations for
which standardized documentation has not yet been fully developed and,
accordingly, they are less liquid than swaps.
Eurodollar Instruments. Each Fund may make investments in Eurodollar
instruments. Eurodollar instruments are U.S. dollar-denominated futures
contracts or options thereon which are linked to the London Interbank Offered
Rate ("LIBOR"), although foreign currency-denominated instruments are available
from time to time. Eurodollar futures contracts enable purchasers to obtain a
fixed rate for the lending of funds and sellers to obtain a fixed rate for
borrowings. The Funds might use Eurodollar futures contracts and options thereon
to hedge against changes in LIBOR, to which many interest rate swaps and
fixed-income instruments are linked.
Risks of Strategic Transactions Outside the U.S. When conducted outside the
U.S., Strategic Transactions may not be regulated as rigorously as in the U.S.,
may not involve a clearing mechanism and related guarantees, and are subject to
the risk of governmental actions affecting trading in, or the prices of, foreign
securities, currencies and other instruments. The value of such positions also
could be adversely affected by: (i) other complex foreign political, legal and
economic factors, (ii) lesser availability than in the U.S. of data on which to
make trading decisions, (iii) delays in a
27
<PAGE>
Fund's ability to act upon economic events occurring in foreign markets during
non-business hours in the U.S., (iv) the imposition of different exercise and
settlement terms and procedures and margin requirements than in the U.S., and
(v) lower trading volume and liquidity.
Use of Segregated and Other Special Accounts. Many Strategic Transactions, in
addition to other requirements, require that the Funds segregate cash or liquid
assets with its custodian to the extent that obligations are not otherwise
"covered" through ownership of the underlying security, financial instrument or
currency. In general, either the full amount of any obligation by a Fund to pay
or deliver securities or assets must be covered at all times by the securities,
instruments or currency required to be delivered, or, subject to any regulatory
restrictions, an amount of cash or liquid assets at least equal to the current
amount of the obligation must be segregated with the custodian. The segregated
assets cannot be sold or transferred unless equivalent assets are substituted in
their place or it is no longer necessary to segregate them. For example, a call
option written by a Fund will require that Fund to hold the securities subject
to the call (or securities convertible into the needed securities without
additional consideration) or to segregate cash or liquid assets sufficient to
purchase and deliver the securities if the call is exercised. A call option sold
by a Fund on an index will require that Fund to own portfolio securities which
correlate with the index or to segregate cash or liquid assets equal to the
excess of the index value over the exercise price on a current basis. A put
option written by a Fund requires that Fund to segregate cash or liquid assets
equal to the exercise price.
Except when a Fund enters into a forward contract for the purchase or
sale of a security denominated in a particular currency, which requires no
segregation, a currency contract which obligates a Fund to buy or sell currency
will generally require that Fund to hold an amount of that currency or liquid
assets denominated in that currency equal to that Fund's obligations or to
segregate liquid assets equal to the amount of that Fund's obligation.
OTC options entered into by a Fund, including those on securities,
currency, financial instruments or indices and OCC issued and exchange listed
index options, will generally provide for cash settlement. As a result, when a
Fund sells these instruments it will only segregate an amount of cash or liquid
assets equal to its accrued net obligations, as there is no requirement for
payment or delivery of amounts in excess of the net amount. These amounts will
equal 100% of the exercise price in the case of a non cash-settled put, the same
as an OCC guaranteed listed option sold by a Fund, or the in-the-money amount
plus any sell-back formula amount in the case of a cash-settled put or call. In
addition, when a Fund sells a call option on an index at a time when the
in-the-money amount exceeds the exercise price, that Fund will segregate, until
the option expires or is closed out, cash or cash equivalents equal in value to
such excess. OCC issued and exchange listed options sold by a Fund other than
those above generally settle with physical delivery, or with an election of
either physical delivery or cash settlement and that Fund will segregate an
amount of cash or liquid assets equal to the full value of the option. OTC
options settling with physical delivery, or with an election of either physical
delivery or cash settlement will be treated the same as other options settling
with physical delivery.
In the case of a futures contract or an option thereon, a Fund must
deposit initial margin and possible daily variation margin in addition to
segregating cash or liquid assets sufficient to meet its obligation to purchase
or provide securities or currencies, or to pay the amount owed at the expiration
of an index-based futures contract. Such liquid assets may consist of cash, cash
equivalents, liquid debt or equity securities or other acceptable assets.
With respect to swaps, a Fund will accrue the net amount of the excess,
if any, of its obligations over its entitlements with respect to each swap on a
daily basis and will segregate an amount of cash or liquid securities having a
value equal to the accrued excess. Caps, floors and collars require segregation
of assets with a value equal to a Fund's net obligation, if any.
Strategic Transactions may be covered by other means when consistent
with applicable regulatory policies. Each Fund may also enter into offsetting
transactions so that its combined position, coupled with any segregated cash or
liquid assets, equals its net outstanding obligation in related options and
Strategic Transactions. For example, a Fund could purchase a put option if the
strike price of that option is the same or higher than the strike price of a put
option sold by that Fund. Moreover, instead of segregating assets if a Fund held
a futures or forward contract, it could purchase a put option on the same
futures or forward contract with a strike price as high or higher than the price
of the contract held. Other Strategic Transactions may also be offset in
combinations. If the offsetting transaction terminates at the time of or after
the primary transaction no segregation is required, but if it terminates prior
to such time, cash or liquid assets equal to any remaining obligation would need
to be segregated.
28
<PAGE>
Warrants. Each Fund may invest in warrants up to 5% of the value of its total
assets. The holder of a warrant has the right, until the warrant expires, to
purchase a given number of shares of a particular issuer at a specified price.
Such investments can provide a greater potential for profit or loss than an
equivalent investment in the underlying security. Prices of warrants do not
necessarily move, however, in tandem with the prices of the underlying
securities and are, therefore, considered speculative investments. Warrants pay
no dividends and confer no rights other than a purchase option. Thus, if a
warrant held by a Fund were not exercised by the date of its expiration, the
Fund would lose the entire purchase price of the warrant.
Investment Restrictions
Unless specified to the contrary, the following fundamental policies
may not be changed without the approval of a majority of the outstanding voting
securities of each Fund which, under the 1940 Act and the rules thereunder and
as used in this Statement of Additional Information, means the lesser of (1) 67%
or more of the voting securities present at such meeting, if the holders of more
than 50% of the outstanding voting securities of a Fund are present or
represented by proxy, or (2) more than 50% of the outstanding voting securities
of a Fund. The Funds are under no restriction as to the amount of portfolio
securities which may be bought or sold.
If a percentage restriction on investment or utilization of assets as
set forth under "Investment Restrictions" and "Other Investment Policies" above
is adhered to at the time an investment is made, a later change in percentage
resulting from changes in the value or the total cost of a Funds' assets will
not be considered a violation of the restriction.
Each Fund has elected to be classified as a non-diversified series of
an open-end investment company. In addition, as a matter of fundamental policy,
each Fund may not:
(1) borrow money, except as permitted under the Investment Company
Act of 1940, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by
regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time;
(2) issue senior securities, except as permitted under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and as interpreted
or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from
time to time;
(3) purchase physical commodities or contracts relating to
physical commodities;
(4) concentrate its investments in a particular industry, as that
term is used in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as
amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory
authority having jurisdiction, from time to time;
(5) engage in the business of underwriting securities issued by
others, except to the extent that the Fund may be deemed to be
an underwriter in connection with the disposition of portfolio
securities;
(6) purchase or sell real estate, which term does not include
securities or companies which deal in real estate or interests
therein, except that the Fund reserves freedom of action to
hold and to sell real estate acquired as a result of the
Fund's ownership of securities; or
(7) make loans except as permitted under the Investment Company
Act of 1940, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by
regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.
The Directors of the Corporation have voluntarily adopted certain
policies and restrictions which are observed in the conduct of the Funds'
affairs. These represent intentions of the Directors based upon current
circumstances. They differ from fundamental investment policies in that they may
be changed or amended by action of the Directors without requiring prior notice
to or approval of shareholders.
As a matter of non-fundamental policy each Fund does not currently
intend to:
(1) borrow money in an amount greater than 5% of its total assets,
except (i) for temporary or emergency purposes and (ii) by
engaging in reverse repurchase agreements, dollar rolls, or
other investments or transactions described in the Fund's
registration statement which may be deemed to be borrowings;
29
<PAGE>
(2) purchase securities on margin or make short sales, except (i)
short sales against the box, (ii) in connection with arbitrage
transactions, (iii) for margin deposits in connection with
futures contracts, options or other permitted investments,
(iv) that transactions in futures contracts and options shall
not be deemed to constitute selling securities short, and (v)
that the Fund may obtain such short-term credits as may be
necessary for the clearance of securities transactions;
(3) purchase options, unless the aggregate premiums paid on all
such options held by the Fund at any time do not exceed 20% of
its total assets; or sell put options, if as a result, the
aggregate value of the obligations underlying such put options
would exceed 50% of its total assets;
(4) enter into futures contracts or purchase options thereon
unless immediately after the purchase, the value of the
aggregate initial margin with respect to such futures
contracts entered into on behalf of the Fund and the premiums
paid for such options on futures contracts do not exceed 5% of
the fair market value of the Fund's total assets; provided
that in the case of an option that is in-the-money at the time
of purchase, the in-the-money amount may be excluded in
computing the 5% limit;
(5) purchase warrants if as a result, such securities, taken at
the lower of cost or market value, would represent more than
5% of the value of the Fund's total assets (for this purpose,
warrants acquired in units or attached to securities will be
deemed to have no value); and
(6) lend portfolio securities in an amount greater than 5% of its
total assets.
PURCHASES
Additional Information About Opening An Account
Clients having a regular investment counsel account with the Adviser or
its affiliates and members of their immediate families, officers and employees
of the Adviser or of any affiliated organization and their immediate families,
members of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. ("NASD") and
banks may, if they prefer, subscribe initially for at least $2,500 of Fund
shares through Scudder Investor Services, Inc. (the "Distributor") by letter,
fax, TWX, or telephone.
Shareholders of other Scudder funds who have submitted an account
application and have a certified Tax Identification Number, clients having a
regular investment counsel account with the Adviser or its affiliates and
members of their immediate families, officers and employees of the Adviser or of
any affiliated organization and their immediate families, members of the NASD,
and banks may open an account by wire. These investors must call
1-800-225-SCUDDER to get an account number. During the call, the investor will
be asked to indicate the Fund name, amount to be wired ($2,500 minimum), name of
bank or trust company from which the wire will be sent, the exact registration
of the new account, the taxpayer identification or Social Security number,
address and telephone number. The investor must then call the bank to arrange a
wire transfer to The Scudder Funds, State Street Bank and Trust Company, Boston,
MA 02110, ABA Number 011000028, DDA Account Number: 9903-5552. The investor must
give the Scudder fund name, account name and the new account number. Finally,
the investor must send the completed and signed application to the Fund
promptly.
The minimum initial purchase amount is less than $2,500 under certain
special plan accounts.
Minimum balances
Shareholders should maintain a share balance worth at least $2,500
($1,000 for fiduciary accounts such as IRAs, and custodial accounts such as
Uniform Gift to Minor Act, and Uniform Trust to Minor Act accounts), which
amount may be changed by the Board of Directors. A shareholder may open an
account with at least $1,000 ($500 for fiduciary/custodial accounts), if an
automatic investment plan (AIP) of $100/month ($50/month for fiduciary/custodial
accounts) is established. Scudder group retirement plans and certain other
accounts have similar or lower minimum share balance requirements.
30
<PAGE>
Each Fund reserves the right, following 60 days' written notice to
applicable shareholders, to:
o assess an annual $10 per Fund charge (with the Fee to be paid
to the Fund) for any non-fiduciary/non-custodial account
without an automatic investment plan (AIP) in place and a
balance of less than $2,500; and
o redeem all shares in Fund accounts below $1,000 where a
reduction in value has occurred due to a redemption, exchange
or transfer out of the account. The Fund will mail the
proceeds of the redeemed account to the shareholder.
Reductions in value that result solely from market activity will not
trigger an involuntary redemption. Shareholders with a combined household
account balance in any of the Scudder Funds of $100,000 or more, as well as
group retirement and certain other accounts will not be subject to a fee or
automatic redemption.
Fiduciary (e.g., IRA or Roth IRA) and custodial accounts (e.g., UGMA or
UTMA) with balances below $100 are subject to automatic redemption following 60
days' written notice to applicable shareholders.
Additional Information About Making Subsequent Investments by Telephone Order
Subsequent purchase orders for $10,000 or more and for an amount not
greater than four times the value of the shareholder's account may be placed by
telephone, fax, etc. by established shareholders (except by Scudder Individual
Retirement Account (IRA), Scudder Horizon Plan, Scudder Profit Sharing and Money
Purchase Pension Plans, Scudder 401(k) and Scudder 403(b) Plan holders), members
of the NASD, and banks. Orders placed in this manner may be directed to any
office of the Distributor listed in the Fund's prospectus. Contact the
Distributor at 1-800-SCUDDER for additional information. A confirmation of the
purchase will be mailed out promptly following receipt of a request to buy.
Federal regulations require that payment be received within three business days.
If payment is not received within that time, the order is subject to
cancellation. In the event of such cancellation or cancellation at the
purchaser's request, the purchaser will be responsible for any loss incurred by
the Fund or the principal underwriter by reason of such cancellation. If the
purchaser is a shareholder, the Corporation shall have the authority, as agent
of the shareholder, to redeem shares in the account in order to reimburse the
Fund or the principal underwriter for the loss incurred. Net losses on such
transactions which are not recovered from the purchaser will be absorbed by the
principal underwriter. Any net profit on the liquidation of unpaid shares will
accrue to the Fund.
Additional Information About Making Subsequent Investments by QuickBuy
Shareholders, whose predesignated bank account of record is a member of
the Automated Clearing House Network (ACH) and who have elected to participate
in the QuickBuy program, may purchase shares of the Fund by telephone. Through
this service shareholders may purchase up to $250,000. To purchase shares by
QuickBuy, shareholders should call before the close of regular trading on the
New York Stock Exchange, Inc. (the "Exchange"), normally 4 p.m. eastern time.
Proceeds in the amount of your purchase will be transferred from your bank
checking account two or three business days following your call. For requests
received by the close of regular trading on the Exchange, shares will be
purchased at the net asset value per share calculated at the close of trading on
the day of your call. QuickBuy requests received after the close of regular
trading on the Exchange will begin their processing and be purchased at the net
asset value calculated the following business day. If you purchase shares by
QuickBuy and redeem them within seven days of the purchase, the Fund may hold
the redemption proceeds for a period of up to seven business days. If you
purchase shares and there are insufficient funds in your bank account the
purchase will be canceled and you will be subject to any losses or fees incurred
in the transaction. QuickBuy transactions are not available for most retirement
plan accounts. However, QuickBuy transactions are available for Scudder IRA
accounts.
In order to request purchases by QuickBuy, shareholders must have
completed and returned to the Transfer Agent the application, including the
designation of a bank account from which the purchase payment will be debited.
New investors wishing to establish QuickBuy may so indicate on the application.
Existing shareholders who wish to add QuickBuy to their account may do so by
completing a QuickBuy Enrollment Form. After sending in an enrollment form,
shareholders should allow 15 days for this service to be available.
Each Fund employs procedures, including recording telephone calls,
testing a caller's identity, and sending written confirmation of telephone
transactions, designed to give reasonable assurance that instructions
communicated by
31
<PAGE>
telephone are genuine, and to discourage fraud. To the extent that each Fund
does not follow such procedures, it may be liable for losses due to unauthorized
or fraudulent telephone instructions. Each Fund will not be liable for acting
upon instructions communicated by telephone that it reasonably believes to be
genuine.
Checks
A certified check is not necessary, but checks are only accepted
subject to collection at full face value in U.S. funds and must be drawn on, or
payable through, a U.S. bank.
If shares of a Fund are purchased by a check which proves to be
uncollectible, the Corporation reserves the right to cancel the purchase
immediately and the purchaser will be responsible for any loss incurred by the
Trust or the principal underwriter by reason of such cancellation. If the
purchaser is a shareholder, the Corporation will have the authority, as agent of
the shareholder, to redeem shares in the account in order to reimburse the Fund
or the principal underwriter for the loss incurred. Investors whose orders have
been canceled may be prohibited from, or restricted in, placing future orders in
any of the Scudder funds.
Wire Transfer of Federal Funds
To obtain the net asset value determined as of the close of regular
trading on the Exchange on a selected day, your bank must forward federal funds
by wire transfer and provide the required account information so as to be
available to the Fund prior to the close of regular trading on the Exchange
(normally 4 p.m. eastern time).
The bank sending an investor's federal funds by bank wire may charge
for the service. Presently, the Distributor pays a fee for receipt by State
Street Bank and Trust Company (the "Custodian") of "wired funds," but the right
to charge investors for this service is reserved.
Boston banks are closed on certain holidays although the Exchange may
be open. These holidays include Columbus Day (the 2nd Monday in October) and
Veterans Day (November 11). Investors are not able to purchase shares by wiring
federal funds on such holidays because the Custodian is not open to receive such
federal funds on behalf of the Fund.
Share Price
Purchases will be filled without sales charge at the net asset value
next computed after receipt of the application in good order. Net asset value
normally will be computed as of the close of regular trading on each day during
which the Exchange is open for trading. Orders received after the close of
regular trading on the Exchange will receive the next business day's net asset
value. If the order has been placed by a member of the NASD, other than the
Distributor, it is the responsibility of that member broker, rather than the
Fund, to forward the purchase order to Scudder Service Corporation (the
"Transfer Agent") by the close of regular trading on the Exchange.
Share Certificates
Due to the desire of the Corporation's management to afford ease of
redemption, certificates will not be issued to indicate ownership in the Fund.
Share certificates now in a shareholder's possession may be sent to the Transfer
Agent for cancellation and credit to such shareholder's account. Shareholders
who prefer may hold the certificates in their possession until they wish to
exchange or redeem such shares.
Other Information
Each Fund has authorized certain members of the NASD other than the
Distributor to accept purchase and redemption orders for the Fund's shares.
Those brokers may also designate other parties to accept purchase and redemption
orders on the Fund's behalf. Orders for purchase or redemption will be deemed to
have been received by the Fund when such brokers or their authorized designees
accept the orders. Subject to the terms of the contract between the Fund and the
broker, ordinarily orders will be priced at the Fund's net asset value next
computed after acceptance by such brokers or their authorized designees.
Further, if purchases or redemptions of the Funds' shares are arranged and
settlement is made at an investor's election through any other authorized NASD
member, that member may, at its
32
<PAGE>
discretion, charge a fee for that service. The Board of Directors and the
Distributor, also the Funds' principal underwriter, each has the right to limit
the amount of purchases by and to refuse to sell to, any person. The Directors
and the Distributor may suspend or terminate the offering of shares of a Fund at
any time for any reason.
The Board of Directors and the Distributor each has the right to limit,
for any reason, the amount of purchases by, and to refuse to, sell to any
person, and each may suspend or terminate the offering of shares of a Fund at
any time for any reasons.
The Tax Identification Number section of the application must be
completed when opening an account. Applications and purchase orders without a
correct certified tax identification number and certain other certified
information (e.g. from exempt organizations, certification of exempt status)
will be returned to the investor. Each Fund reserves the right, following 30
days' notice, to redeem all shares in accounts without a correct certified
Social Security or tax identification number. A shareholder may avoid
involuntary redemption by providing each Fund with a tax identification number
during the 30-day notice period.
The Corporation may issue shares at net asset value in connection with
any merger or consolidation with, or acquisition of the assets of, any
investment company or personal holding company, subject to the requirements of
the 1940 Act.
EXCHANGES AND REDEMPTIONS
Exchanges
Exchanges are comprised of a redemption from one Scudder fund and a
purchase into another Scudder fund. The purchase side of the exchange either may
be an additional investment into an existing account or may involve opening a
new account in the other fund. When an exchange involves a new account, the new
account will be established with the same registration, tax identification
number, address, telephone redemption option, "Scudder Automated Information
Line" (SAIL) transaction authorization and dividend option as the existing
account. Other features will not carry over automatically to the new account.
Exchanges to a new fund account must be for a minimum of $2,500. When an
exchange represents an additional investment into an existing account, the
account receiving the exchange proceeds must have identical registration, tax
identification number, address, and account options/features as the account of
origin. Exchanges into an existing account must be for $100 or more.
If the account receiving the exchange proceeds is to be different in
any respect, the exchange request must be in writing and must contain an
original signature guarantee as described under "Transaction information --
Signature guarantees" in the Funds' prospectuses.
Exchange orders received before the close of regular trading on the
Exchange on any business day will ordinarily be executed at respective net asset
values determined on that day. Exchange orders received after the close of
trading will be executed on the following business day.
Investors may also request, at no extra charge, to have exchanges
automatically executed on a predetermined schedule from one Scudder fund to an
existing account in another Scudder fund, at current net asset value, through
Scudder's Automatic Exchange Program. Exchanges must be for a minimum of $50.
Shareholders may add this free feature over the telephone or in writing.
Automatic Exchanges will continue until the shareholder requests by telephone or
in writing to have the feature removed, or until the originating account is
depleted. The Corporation and the Transfer Agent each reserves the right to
suspend or terminate the privilege of the Automatic Exchange Program at any
time.
There is no charge to the shareholder for any exchange described above.
An exchange into another Scudder fund is a redemption of shares, and therefore
may result in tax consequences (gain or loss) to the shareholder, and the
proceeds of such an exchange may be subject to backup withholding (see "TAXES").
Investors currently receive the exchange privilege, including exchange
by telephone, automatically without having to elect it. The Funds employ
procedures, including recording telephone calls, testing a caller's identity,
and sending written confirmation of telephone transactions, designed to give
reasonable assurance that instructions
33
<PAGE>
communicated by telephone are genuine, and to discourage fraud. To the extent
that each Fund does not follow such procedures, it may be liable for losses due
to unauthorized or fraudulent telephone instructions. The Funds will not be
liable for acting upon instructions communicated by telephone that they
reasonably believe to be genuine. The Funds and the Transfer Agent each reserves
the right to suspend or terminate the privilege of exchanging by telephone or
fax at any time.
The Scudder funds into which investors may make an exchange are listed
under "THE SCUDDER FAMILY OF FUNDS" herein. Before making an exchange,
shareholders should obtain from the Distributor a prospectus of the Scudder fund
into which the exchange is being contemplated. The exchange privilege may not be
available for certain Scudder funds or classes thereof. For more information,
please call 1-800-225-SCUDDER.
Scudder retirement plans may have different exchange requirements.
Please refer to appropriate plan literature.
Redemption by Telephone
Shareholders currently receive the right, automatically without having
to elect it, to redeem by telephone up to $50,000 and have the proceeds mailed
to their address of record. Shareholders may request to have the proceeds mailed
or wired to their predesignated bank account. In order to request redemptions by
telephone, shareholders must have completed and returned to the Transfer Agent
an application, including the designation of a bank account to which the
redemption proceeds are to be sent.
(a) NEW INVESTORS wishing to establish the telephone redemption
privilege must complete the appropriate section on the
application.
(b) EXISTING SHAREHOLDERS (except those who are Scudder IRA,
Scudder pension and profit- sharing, Scudder 401(k) and
Scudder 403(b) Planholders) who wish to establish telephone
redemption to a predesignated bank account or who want to
change the bank account previously designated to receive
redemption proceeds should either return a Telephone
Redemption Option Form (available upon request), or send a
letter identifying the account and specifying the exact
information to be changed. The letter must be signed exactly
as the shareholder's name(s) appears on the account. An
original signature and an original signature guarantee are
required for each person in whose name the account is
registered.
If a request for a redemption to a shareholder's bank account is made
by telephone or fax, payment will be made by Federal Reserve bank wire to the
bank account designated on the application, unless a request is made that the
redemption be mailed to the designated bank account. There will be a $5 charge
for all wire redemptions.
Note: Investors designating a savings bank to receive their
telephone redemption proceeds are advised that if the savings
bank is not a participant in the Federal Reserve System,
redemption proceeds must be wired through a commercial bank
which is a correspondent of the savings bank. As this may
delay receipt by the shareholder's account, it is suggested
that investors wishing to use a savings bank discuss wire
procedures with their bank and submit any special wire
transfer information with the telephone redemption
authorization. If appropriate wire information is not
supplied, redemption proceeds will be mailed to the designated
bank.
The Funds employ procedures, including recording telephone calls,
testing a caller's identity, and sending written confirmation of telephone
transactions, designed to give reasonable assurance that instructions
communicated by telephone are genuine, and to discourage fraud. To the extent
that each Fund does not follow such procedures, it may be liable for losses due
to unauthorized or fraudulent telephone instructions. The Funds will not be
liable for acting upon instructions communicated by telephone that it reasonably
believes to be genuine.
Redemption by QuickSell
Shareholders, whose predesignated bank account of record is a member of
the Automated Clearing House Network (ACH) and who have elected to participate
in the QuickSell program may sell shares of a Fund by telephone. Redemptions
must be for at least $250. Proceeds in the amount of your redemption will be
transferred to your bank
34
<PAGE>
checking account two or three business days following your call. For requests
received by the close of regular trading on the Exchange, normally 4:00 p.m.
eastern time, shares will be redeemed at the net asset value per share
calculated at the close of trading on the day of your call. QuickSell requests
received after the close of regular trading on the Exchange will begin their
processing and be redeemed at the net asset value calculated the following
business day. QuickSell transactions are not available for Scudder IRA accounts
and most other retirement plan accounts.
In order to request redemptions by QuickSell, shareholders must have
completed and returned to the Transfer Agent the application, including the
designation of a bank account to which redemption proceeds will be credited. New
investors wishing to establish QuickSell may so indicate on the application.
Existing shareholders who wish to add QuickSell to their account may do so by
completing a QuickSell Enrollment Form. After sending in an enrollment form,
shareholders should allow for 15 days for this service to be available.
Each Fund employs procedures, including recording telephone calls,
testing a caller's identity, and sending written confirmation of telephone
transactions, designed to give reasonable assurance that instructions
communicated by telephone are genuine, and to discourage fraud. To the extent
that a Fund does not follow such procedures, it may be liable for losses due to
unauthorized or fraudulent telephone instructions. A Fund will not be liable for
acting upon instructions communicated by telephone that it reasonably believes
to be genuine.
Redemption by Mail or Fax
Any existing share certificates representing shares being redeemed must
accompany a request for redemption and be duly endorsed or accompanied by a
proper stock assignment form with signature(s) guaranteed.
Any existing share certificates representing shares being redeemed must
accompany a request for redemption and be duly endorsed or accompanied by a
proper stock assignment form with a signature guarantee as explained in the
Funds' prospectuses.
In order to ensure proper authorization before redeeming shares, the
Transfer Agent may request additional documents such as, but not restricted to,
stock powers, trust instruments, certificates of death, appointments as
executor, certificates of corporate authority and waivers of tax required in
some states when settling estates.
It is suggested that shareholders holding share certificates or shares
registered in other than individual names contact the Transfer Agent prior to
redemptions to ensure that all necessary documents accompany the request. When
shares are held in the name of a corporation, trust, fiduciary agent, attorney
or partnership, the Transfer Agent requires, in addition to the stock power,
certified evidence of authority to sign. These procedures are for the protection
of shareholders and should be followed to ensure prompt payment. Redemption
requests must not be conditional as to date or price of the redemption. Proceeds
of a redemption will be sent within seven business days after receipt by the
Transfer Agent of a request for redemption that complies with the above
requirements. Delays of more than seven days of payment for shares tendered for
redemption may result but only until the purchase check has cleared.
The requirements for IRA redemptions are different from those for
regular accounts. For more information, please call 1-800-225-SCUDDER.
Redemption-in-Kind
The Corporation reserves the right, if conditions exist which make cash
payments undesirable, to honor any request for redemption or repurchase order by
making payment in whole or in part in readily marketable securities chosen by
the Corporation and valued as they are for purposes of computing a Fund's net
asset value (a redemption-in- kind). If payment is made in securities, a
shareholder may incur transaction expenses in converting these securities into
cash. The Corporation has elected, however, to be governed by Rule 18f-1 under
the 1940 Act as a result of which each Fund is obligated to redeem shares, with
respect to any one shareholder during any 90-day period, solely in cash up to
the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the net asset value of the relevant Fund at the
beginning of the period.
35
<PAGE>
Other Information
Clients, officers or employees of the Adviser or of an affiliated
organization, and members of such clients', officers' or employees' immediate
families, banks and members of the NASD may direct repurchase requests to a Fund
through Scudder Investor Services, Inc. at Two International Place, Boston,
Massachusetts 02110-4103 by letter, fax, TWX, or telephone. A two-part
confirmation will be mailed out promptly after receipt of the repurchase
request. A written request in good order with a proper original signature
guarantee, as described in each Fund's prospectus under "Transaction information
- -- Signature guarantees," should be sent with a copy of the invoice to Scudder
Funds, c/o Scudder Confirmed Processing, Two International Place, Boston,
Massachusetts 02110-4103. Failure to deliver shares or required documents (see
above) by the settlement date may result in cancellation of the trade and the
shareholder will be responsible for any loss incurred by a Fund or the principal
underwriter by reason of such cancellation. Net losses on such transactions
which are not recovered from the shareholder will be absorbed by the principal
underwriter. Any net gains so resulting will accrue to a Fund. For this group,
repurchases will be carried out at the net asset value next computed after such
repurchase requests have been received. The arrangements described in this
paragraph for repurchasing shares are discretionary and may be discontinued at
any time.
If a shareholder redeems all shares in the account after the record
date of a dividend, the shareholder will receive in addition to the net asset
value thereof, all declared but unpaid dividends thereon. The value of shares
redeemed or repurchased may be more or less than the shareholder's cost
depending on the net asset value at the time of redemption or repurchase. The
Corporation does not impose a redemption or repurchase charge. Redemption of
shares, including an exchange into another Scudder fund, may result in tax
consequences (gain or loss) to the shareholder and the proceeds of such
redemptions may be subject to backup withholding. (See "TAXES.")
Shareholders who wish to redeem shares from Special Plan Accounts
should contact the employer, trustee or custodian of the Plan for the
requirements.
The determination of net asset value may be suspended at times and a
shareholder's right to redeem shares and to receive payment may be suspended at
times during which (a) the Exchange is closed, other than customary weekend and
holiday closings, (b) trading on the Exchange is restricted for any reason, (c)
an emergency exists as a result of which disposal by a Fund of securities owned
by it is not reasonably practicable or it is not reasonably practicable for a
Fund fairly to determine the value of its net assets, or (d) the SEC may by
order permit such a suspension for the protection of the Corporation's
shareholders; provided that applicable rules and regulations of the SEC (or any
succeeding governmental authority) shall govern as to whether the conditions
prescribed in (b) or (c) exist.
FEATURES AND SERVICES OFFERED BY THE FUNDS
The No-Load Concept(TM)
Investors are encouraged to be aware of the full ramifications of
mutual fund fee structures, and of how Scudder distinguishes its Scudder Family
of Funds from the vast majority of mutual funds available today. The primary
distinction is between load and no-load funds.
Load funds generally are defined as mutual funds that charge a fee for
the sale and distribution of fund shares. There are three types of loads:
front-end loads, back-end loads, and asset-based 12b-1 fees. 12b-1 fees are
distribution- related fees charged against fund assets and are distinct from
service fees, which are charged for personal services and/or maintenance of
shareholder accounts. Asset-based sales charges and service fees are typically
paid pursuant to distribution plans adopted under 12b-1 under the 1940 Act.
A front-end load is a sales charge, which can be as high as 8.50% of
the amount invested. A back-end load is a contingent deferred sales charge,
which can be as high as 8.50% of either the amount invested or redeemed. The
maximum front-end or back-end load varies, and depends upon whether or not a
fund also charges a 12b-1 fee and/or a service fee or offers investors various
sales-related services such as dividend reinvestment. The maximum charge for a
12b-1 fee is 0.75% of a fund's average annual net assets, and the maximum charge
for a service fee is 0.25% of a fund's average annual net assets.
36
<PAGE>
A no-load fund does not charge a front-end or back-end load, but can
charge a small 12b-1 fee and/or service fee against fund assets. Under the
National Association of Securities Dealers Conduct Rules, a mutual fund can call
itself a "no-load" fund only if the 12b-1 fee and/or service fee does not exceed
0.25% of a fund's average annual net assets.
Because funds and classes in the Scudder Family of Funds do not pay any
asset-based sales charges or service fees, Scudder uses the phrase no-load to
distinguish Scudder funds and classes from other no-load funds. Scudder
pioneered the no-load concept when it created the nation's first no-load fund in
1928, and later developed the nation's first family of no-load mutual funds.
Internet access
World Wide Web Site -- The address of the Scudder Funds site is
http://www.scudder.com. The site offers guidance on global investing and
developing strategies to help meet financial goals and provides access to the
Scudder investor relations department via e-mail. The site also enables users to
access or view fund prospectuses and profiles with links between summary
information in Profiles and details in the Prospectus. Users can fill out new
account forms on-line, order free software, and request literature on funds.
Account Access -- Scudder is among the first mutual fund families to allow
shareholders to manage their fund accounts through the World Wide Web. Scudder
Fund shareholders can view a snapshot of current holdings, review account
activity and move assets between Scudder Fund accounts.
Scudder's personal portfolio capabilities -- known as SEAS (Scudder
Electronic Account Services) -- are accessible only by current Scudder Fund
shareholders who have set up a Personal Page on Scudder's Web site. Using a
secure Web browser, shareholders sign on to their account with their Social
Security number and their SAIL password. As an additional security measure,
users can change their current password or disable access to their portfolio
through the World Wide Web.
An Account Activity option reveals a financial history of transactions
for an account, with trade dates, type and amount of transaction, share price
and number of shares traded. For users who wish to trade shares between Scudder
Funds, the Fund Exchange option provides a step-by-step procedure to exchange
shares among existing fund accounts or to new Scudder Fund accounts.
Dividends and Capital Gains Distribution Options
Investors have freedom to choose whether to receive cash or to reinvest
any dividends from net investment income or distributions from realized capital
gains in additional shares of a Fund. A change of instructions for the method of
payment must be received by the Transfer Agent at least five days prior to a
dividend record date. Shareholders also may change their dividend option either
by calling 1-800-SCUDDER or by sending written instructions to the Transfer
Agent. Please include your account number with your written request. See "How to
Buy Shares" in the Funds' prospectuses for the address.
Reinvestment is usually made at the closing net asset value determined
on the business day following the record date. Investors may leave standing
instructions with the Transfer Agent designating their option for either
reinvestment or cash distribution of any income dividends or capital gains
distributions. If no election is made, dividends and distributions will be
invested in additional shares of a Fund.
Investors may also have dividends and distributions automatically
deposited in their predesignated bank account through Scudder's
DistributionsDirect Program. Shareholders who elect to participate in the
DistributionsDirect Program, and whose predesignated checking account of record
is with a member bank of the Automated Clearing House Network (ACH) can have
income and capital gain distributions automatically deposited to their personal
bank account usually within three business days after the Fund pays its
distribution. A DistributionsDirect request form can be obtained by calling
1-800-SCUDDER. Confirmation statements will be mailed to shareholders as
notification that distributions have been deposited.
37
<PAGE>
Investors choosing to participate in Scudder's Automatic Withdrawal
Plan must reinvest any dividends or capital gains. For most retirement plan
accounts, the reinvestment of dividends and capital gains is also required.
Reports to Shareholders
The Trust issues shareholders unaudited semiannual financial statements
and annual financial statements audited by independent accountants, including a
list of investments held and statements of assets and liabilities, operations,
changes in net assets and financial highlights. The Trust presently intends to
distribute to shareholders informal quarterly reports during the intervening
quarters, containing a statement of the investments of the Funds.
Transaction Summaries
Annual summaries of all transactions in each Fund account are available
to shareholders. The summaries may be obtained by calling 1-800-SCUDDER.
THE SCUDDER FAMILY OF FUNDS
The Scudder Family of Funds is America's first family of mutual funds
and the nation's oldest family of no-load mutual funds; a list of Scudder funds
follows.
MONEY MARKET
Scudder U.S. Treasury Money Fund
Scudder Cash Investment Trust
Scudder Money Market Series+
Scudder Government Money Market Series+
TAX FREE MONEY MARKET
Scudder Tax Free Money Fund
Scudder Tax Free Money Market Series+
Scudder California Tax Free Money Fund*
Scudder New York Tax Free Money Fund*
TAX FREE
Scudder Limited Term Tax Free Fund
Scudder Medium Term Tax Free Fund
Scudder Managed Municipal Bonds
Scudder High Yield Tax Free Fund
Scudder California Tax Free Fund*
Scudder Massachusetts Limited Term Tax Free Fund*
Scudder Massachusetts Tax Free Fund*
Scudder New York Tax Free Fund*
Scudder Ohio Tax Free Fund*
U.S. INCOME
Scudder Short Term Bond Fund
Scudder GNMA Fund
Scudder Income Fund
Scudder Corporate Bond Fund
Scudder High Yield Bond Fund
- --------
+ The institutional class of shares is not part of the Scudder Family of
Funds.
* These funds are not available for sale in all states. For information,
contact Scudder Investor Services, Inc.
38
<PAGE>
GLOBAL INCOME
Scudder Global Bond Fund
Scudder International Bond Fund
Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund
ASSET ALLOCATION
Scudder Pathway Series: Conservative Portfolio
Scudder Pathway Series: Balanced Portfolio
Scudder Pathway Series: Growth Portfolio
U.S. GROWTH AND INCOME
Scudder Balanced Fund
Scudder Dividend & Growth Fund
Scudder Growth and Income Fund
Scudder Select 500 Fund
Scudder 500 Index Fund
Scudder Real Estate Investment Fund
U.S. GROWTH
Value
Scudder Large Company Value Fund
Scudder Value Fund**
Scudder Small Company Value Fund
Scudder Micro Cap Fund
Growth
Scudder Classic Growth Fund**
Scudder Large Company Growth Fund
Scudder Select 1000 Growth Fund
Scudder Development Fund
Scudder 21st Century Growth Fund
GLOBAL EQUITY
Worldwide
Scudder Global Fund
Scudder International Value Fund
Scudder International Growth and Income Fund
Scudder International Fund***
Scudder International Growth Fund
Scudder Global Discovery Fund**
Scudder Emerging Markets Growth Fund
Scudder Gold Fund
Regional
Scudder Greater Europe Growth Fund
Scudder Pacific Opportunities Fund
Scudder Latin America Fund
The Japan Fund, Inc.
- --------
** Only the Scudder Shares are part of the Scudder Family of Funds.
*** Only the International Shares are part of the Scudder Family of Funds.
39
<PAGE>
INDUSTRY SECTOR FUNDS
Choice Series
Scudder Financial Services Fund
Scudder Health Care Fund
Scudder Technology Fund
SCUDDER PREFERRED SERIES
Scudder Tax Managed Growth Fund
Scudder Tax Managed Small Company Fund
The net asset values of most Scudder funds can be found daily in the
"Mutual Funds" section of The Wall Street Journal under "Scudder Funds," and in
other leading newspapers throughout the country. Investors will notice the net
asset value and offering price are the same, reflecting the fact that no sales
commission or "load" is charged on the sale of shares of the Scudder funds. The
latest seven-day yields for the money-market funds can be found every Monday and
Thursday in the "Money-Market Funds" section of The Wall Street Journal. This
information also may be obtained by calling the Scudder Automated Information
Line (SAIL) at 1-800-343-2890.
Certain Scudder funds or classes thereof may not be available for
purchase or exchange. For more information, please call 1-800-225-SCUDDER.
SPECIAL PLAN ACCOUNTS
Detailed information on any Scudder investment plan, including the
applicable charges, minimum investment requirements and disclosures made
pursuant to Internal Revenue Service (the "IRS") requirements, may be obtained
by contacting Scudder Investor Services, Inc., Two International Place, Boston,
Massachusetts 02110-4103 or by calling toll free, 1-800-225-2470. The
discussions of the plans below describe only certain aspects of the federal
income tax treatment of the plan. The state tax treatment may be different and
may vary from state to state. It is advisable for an investor considering the
funding of the investment plans described below to consult with an attorney or
other investment or tax adviser with respect to the suitability requirements and
tax aspects thereof.
Shares of the Fund may also be a permitted investment under profit
sharing and pension plans and IRAs other than those offered by the Fund's
distributor depending on the provisions of the relevant plan or IRA.
None of the plans assures a profit or guarantees protection against
depreciation, especially in declining markets.
Scudder Retirement Plans: Profit-Sharing and Money Purchase
Pension Plans for Corporations and Self-Employed Individuals
Shares of the Fund may be purchased as the investment medium under a
plan in the form of a Scudder Profit-Sharing Plan (including a version of the
Plan which includes a cash-or-deferred feature) or a Scudder Money Purchase
Pension Plan (jointly referred to as the Scudder Retirement Plans) adopted by a
corporation, a self-employed individual or a group of self-employed individuals
(including sole proprietorships and partnerships), or other qualifying
organization. Each of these forms was approved by the IRS as a prototype. The
IRS's approval of an employer's plan under Section 401(a) of the Internal
Revenue Code will be greatly facilitated if it is in such approved form. Under
certain circumstances, the IRS will assume that a plan, adopted in this form,
after special notice to any employees, meets the requirements of Section 401(a)
of the Internal Revenue Code as to form.
Scudder 401(k): Cash or Deferred Profit-Sharing Plan
for Corporations and Self-Employed Individuals
Shares of the Fund may be purchased as the investment medium under a
plan in the form of a Scudder 401(k) Plan adopted by a corporation, a
self-employed individual or a group of self-employed individuals (including sole
proprietors and partnerships), or other qualifying organization. This plan has
been approved as a prototype by the IRS.
40
<PAGE>
Scudder IRA: Individual Retirement Account
Shares of the Fund may be purchased as the underlying investment for an
Individual Retirement Account which meets the requirements of Section 408(a) of
the Internal Revenue Code.
A single individual who is not an active participant in an
employer-maintained retirement plan, such as a pension or profit sharing plan, a
governmental plan, a simplified employee pension plan, a simple retirement
account, or a tax-deferred annuity program (a "qualified plan"), and a married
individual who is not an active participant in a qualified plan and whose spouse
is also not an active participant in a qualified plan, are eligible to make tax
deductible contributions of up to $2,000 to an IRA prior to the year such
individual attains age 70 1/2. In addition, certain individuals who are active
participants in qualified plans (or who have spouses who are active
participants) are also eligible to make tax-deductible contributions to an IRA;
the annual amount, if any, of the contribution which such an individual will be
eligible to deduct will be determined by the amount of his, her, or their
adjusted gross income for the year. If an individual is an active participant,
the deductibility of his or her IRA contributions in 2000 is phased out if the
individual has gross income between $32,000 and $42,000 and is single, if the
individual has gross income between $52,000 and $62,000 and is married filing
jointly, or if the individual has gross income between $0 and $10,000 and is
married filing separately; the phase-out ranges for individuals who are single
or married filing jointly are subject to annual adjustment through 2005 and
2007, respectively. If an individual is married filing jointly and the
individual's spouse is an active participant but the individual is not, the
deductibility of his or her IRA contributions is phased out if their combined
gross income is between $150,000 and $160,000. Whenever the adjusted gross
income limitation prohibits an individual from contributing what would otherwise
be the maximum tax-deductible contribution he or she could make, the individual
will be eligible to contribute the difference to an IRA in the form of
nondeductible contributions.
An eligible individual may contribute as much as $2,000 of qualified
income (earned income or, under certain circumstances, alimony) to an IRA each
year (up to $2,000 per individual for married couples, even if only one spouse
has earned income). All income and capital gains derived from IRA investments
are reinvested and compound tax-deferred until distributed. Such tax-deferred
compounding can lead to substantial retirement savings.
Scudder Roth IRA: Individual Retirement Account
Shares of the Fund may be purchased as the underlying investment for a
Roth Individual Retirement Account which meets the requirements of Section 408A
of the Internal Revenue Code.
A single individual earning below $95,000 can contribute up to $2,000
per year to a Roth IRA. The maximum contribution amount diminishes and gradually
falls to zero for single filers with adjusted gross incomes ranging from $95,000
to $110,000. Married couples earning less than $150,000 combined, and filing
jointly, can contribute a full $4,000 per year ($2,000 per IRA). The maximum
contribution amount for married couples filing jointly phases out from $150,000
to $160,000.
An eligible individual can contribute money to a traditional IRA and a
Roth IRA as long as the total contribution to all IRAs does not exceed $2,000.
No tax deduction is allowed under Section 219 of the Internal Revenue Code for
contributions to a Roth IRA. Contributions to a Roth IRA may be made even after
the individual for whom the account is maintained has attained age 70 1/2.
All income and capital gains derived from Roth IRA investments are
reinvested and compounded tax-free. Such tax-free compounding can lead to
substantial retirement savings. No distributions are required to be taken prior
to the death of the original account holder. If a Roth IRA has been established
for a minimum of five years, distributions can be taken tax-free after reaching
age 59 1/2, for a first-time home purchase ($10,000 maximum, one-time use) or
upon death or disability. All other distributions of earnings from a Roth IRA
are taxable and subject to a 10% tax penalty unless an exception applies.
Exceptions to the 10% penalty include: disability, certain medical expenses, the
purchase of health insurance for an unemployed individual and qualified higher
education expenses.
An individual with an income of $100,000 or less (who is not married
filing separately) can roll his or her existing IRA into a Roth IRA. However,
the individual must pay taxes on the taxable amount in his or her traditional
41
<PAGE>
IRA. Individuals who complete the rollover in 1998 will be allowed to spread the
tax payments over a four-year period. After 1998, all taxes on such a rollover
will have to be paid in the tax year in which the rollover is made.
Scudder 403(b) Plan
Shares of the Fund may also be purchased as the underlying investment
for tax sheltered annuity plans under the provisions of Section 403(b)(7) of the
Internal Revenue Code. In general, employees of tax-exempt organizations
described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (such as hospitals,
churches, religious, scientific, or literary organizations and educational
institutions) or a public school system are eligible to participate in a 403(b)
plan.
Automatic Withdrawal Plan
Non-retirement plan shareholders may establish an Automatic Withdrawal
Plan to receive monthly, quarterly or periodic redemptions from his or her
account for any designated amount of $50 or more. Shareholders may designate
which day they want the automatic withdrawal to be processed. The check amounts
may be based on the redemption of a fixed dollar amount, fixed share amount,
percent of account value or declining balance. The Plan provides for income
dividends and capital gains distributions, if any, to be reinvested in
additional shares. Shares are then liquidated as necessary to provide for
withdrawal payments. Since the withdrawals are in amounts selected by the
investor and have no relationship to yield or income, payments received cannot
be considered as yield or income on the investment and the resulting
liquidations may deplete or possibly extinguish the initial investment and any
reinvested dividends and capital gains distributions. Requests for increases in
withdrawal amounts or to change the payee must be submitted in writing, signed
exactly as the account is registered, and contain signature guarantee(s) as
described under "Transaction information -- Redeeming shares -- Signature
guarantees" in the Fund's prospectus. Any such requests must be received by the
Fund's transfer agent ten days prior to the date of the first automatic
withdrawal. An Automatic Withdrawal Plan may be terminated at any time by the
shareholder, the Trust or its agent on written notice, and will be terminated
when all shares of the Fund under the Plan have been liquidated or upon receipt
by the Trust of notice of death of the shareholder.
An Automatic Withdrawal Plan request form can be obtained by calling
1-800-225-SCUDDER.
Group or Salary Deduction Plan
An investor may join a Group or Salary Deduction Plan where
satisfactory arrangements have been made with Scudder Investor Services, Inc.
for forwarding regular investments through a single source. The minimum annual
investment is $240 per investor which may be made in monthly, quarterly,
semiannual or annual payments. The minimum monthly deposit per investor is $20.
Except for trustees or custodian fees for certain retirement plans, at present
there is no separate charge for maintaining group or salary deduction plans;
however, the Trust and its agents reserve the right to establish a maintenance
charge in the future depending on the services required by the investor.
The Trust reserves the right, after notice has been given to the
shareholder, to redeem and close a shareholder's account in the event that the
shareholder ceases participating in the group plan prior to investment of $1,000
per individual or in the event of a redemption which occurs prior to the
accumulation of that amount or which reduces the account value to less than
$1,000 and the account value is not increased to $1,000 within a reasonable time
after notification. An investor in a plan who has not purchased shares for six
months shall be presumed to have stopped making payments under the plan.
Automatic Investment Plan
Shareholders may arrange to make periodic investments through automatic
deductions from checking accounts by completing the appropriate form and
providing the necessary documentation to establish this service. The minimum
investment is $50.
The Automatic Investment Plan involves an investment strategy called
dollar cost averaging. Dollar cost averaging is a method of investing whereby a
specific dollar amount is invested at regular intervals. By investing the same
dollar amount each period, when shares are priced low the investor will purchase
more shares than when the share price is higher. Over a period of time this
investment approach may allow the investor to reduce the average price of the
42
<PAGE>
shares purchased. However, this investment approach does not assure a profit or
protect against loss. This type of regular investment program may be suitable
for various investment goals such as, but not limited to, college planning or
saving for a home.
Uniform Transfers/Gifts to Minors Act
Grandparents, parents or other donors may set up custodian accounts for
minors. The minimum initial investment is $1,000 unless the donor agrees to
continue to make regular share purchases for the account through Scudder's
Automatic Investment Plan (AIP). In this case, the minimum initial investment is
$500.
The Trust reserves the right, after notice has been given to the
shareholder and custodian, to redeem and close a shareholder's account in the
event that regular investments to the account cease before the $1,000 minimum is
reached.
DIVIDENDS AND CAPITAL GAINS DISTRIBUTIONS
Each Fund intends to follow the practice of distributing substantially
all and in no event less than 90% of its investment company taxable income
including any excess of net realized short-term capital gains over net realized
long-term capital losses. A Fund may follow the practice of distributing the
entire excess of net realized long-term capital gains over net realized
short-term capital losses. However, a Fund may retain all or part of such gain
for reinvestment, after paying the related federal income taxes for which the
shareholders may then claim a credit against their federal income tax liability.
If a Fund does not distribute an amount of capital gains and/or ordinary income
required to be distributed by an excise tax provision of the Code, it may be
subject to such tax. In certain circumstances, a Fund may determine that it is
in the interest of shareholders to distribute less than such an amount. (See
"TAXES.")
Global Bond Fund intends to declare daily and distribute monthly
substantially all of its net investment income (excluding short-term capital
gains) resulting from Fund investment activity. Distributions, if any, of net
realized capital gains (short-term and long-term) will normally be made in
December. Distributions of certain realized gains or losses on the sale or
retirement of securities denominated in foreign currencies held by the Fund, to
the extent attributable to fluctuations in currency exchange rates, as well as
certain other gains or losses attributable to exchange rate fluctuations, are
treated as ordinary income or loss and will also normally be made in December.
Emerging Markets Income Fund intends to distribute investment company
taxable income (exclusive of net short-term capital gains in excess of net
long-term capital losses) quarterly in March, June, September and December each
year. Distributions, if any, of net realized capital gain during each fiscal
year will normally be made in December. Additional distributions may be made if
necessary.
All distributions will be made in shares of a Fund and confirmations
will be mailed to each shareholder unless a shareholder has elected to receive
cash, in which case a check will be sent. Distributions are taxable, whether
made in shares or cash. (See "TAXES.")
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
From time to time, quotations of the Funds' performance may be included
in advertisements, sales literature or reports to shareholders or prospective
investors. These performance figures are calculated in the following manner:
Average Annual Total Return
Average annual total return is the average annual compound rate of
return for the periods of one year, five years and the life of a Fund, each
ended on the last day of a recent calendar quarter. Average annual total return
quotations reflect changes in the price of the Funds' shares and assume that all
dividends and capital gains distributions during the respective periods were
reinvested in Fund shares. Average annual total return is calculated by
computing the average annual compound rates of return of a hypothetical
investment over such periods, according to the following formula (average annual
total return is then expressed as a percentage):
43
<PAGE>
T = (ERV/P)1/n - 1
Where:
P = a hypothetical initial investment of $1,000
T = Average Annual Total Return
N = number of years
ERV = ending redeemable value: ERV is the value,
at the end of the applicable period,
of a hypothetical $1,000 investment made
at the beginning of the applicable period.
Average Annual Total Return for periods ended October 31, 1999
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
One Year Five Years Ten Year Life of the Fund
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Global Bond Fund* -0.99%# 3.54%# - 4.48%(1)#
Emerging Markets Income Fund -16.70%# 6.54%# - 4.93%(2)#
</TABLE>
(1) For the period beginning March 1, 1991.
* On December 27, 1995, the Fund adopted its present name and objective.
Prior to that date, the Fund was known as Scudder Short Term Global
Income Fund and its objective was high current income. Since adopting
its current objectives (November 1, 1995), the cumulative return is
11.2% for the four-year period ended October 31, 1999. Total returns
for the periods ended October 31, 1995 should not be considered
representative of the present Fund under its current objectives.
(2) For the period beginning December 31, 1993.
# If the Adviser had not maintained expenses, the average annual returns
for periods indicated would have been lower.
Cumulative Total Return
Cumulative total return is the cumulative rate of return on a
hypothetical initial investment of $1,000 for a specified period. Cumulative
total return quotations reflect changes in the price of the Funds' shares and
assume that all dividends and capital gains distributions during the period were
reinvested in Fund shares. Cumulative total return is calculated by computing
the cumulative rates of return of a hypothetical investment over such periods,
according to the following formula (cumulative total return is then expressed as
a percentage):
C = (ERV/P) -1
Where:
C = Cumulative Total Return
P = a hypothetical initial investment of $1,000
ERV = ending redeemable value: ERV is the value,
at the end of the applicable period, of a
hypothetical $1,000 investment made
at the beginning of the applicable period.
Cumulative Total Return for periods ended October 31, 1999
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
One Year Five Years Ten Year Life of the Fund
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Global Bond Fund* -0.99%# 18.98%# - 46.23%(1)#
Emerging Markets Income Fund 16.70%# l37.26%# - 32.40(2)#
</TABLE>
(1) For the period beginning March 1, 1991.
* On December 27, 1995, the Fund adopted its present name and objective.
Prior to that date, the Fund was known as Scudder Short Term Global
Income Fund and its objective was high current income. Financial
44
<PAGE>
information for the periods ended October 31, 1995 should not be
considered representative of the present Fund under its current
objectives.
(2) For the period beginning December 31, 1993.
# If the Adviser had not maintained expenses, the cumulative total
returns for periods indicated would have been lower.
Total Return
Total return is the rate of return on an investment for a specified
period of time calculated in the same manner as cumulative total return.
Yield of Emerging Markets Income Fund
Yield of Emerging Markets Income Fund is the net annualized SEC yield
of the Fund based on a specified 30- day (or one month) period assuming
semiannual compounding of income. Yield is calculated by dividing the net
investment income per share earned during the period by the maximum offering
price per share on the last day of the period, according to the following
formula:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YIELD = 2[(a-b/cd + 1)6-1]
Where:
<S> <C> <C>
a = dividends and interest earned during the period, including
amortization of market premium or accretion of market
discount
b = expenses accrued for the period (net of reimbursements)
c = the average daily number of shares outstanding during the
period that were entitled to receive dividends
d = the maximum offering price per share on the last day of the
period
</TABLE>
The SEC net annualized yield for the 30-day period ended October 31,
1999 was 4.85% for Global Bond Fund. On December 27, 1995, the Fund adopted its
present name and objective. Prior to that date, the Fund was known as Scudder
Short Term Global Income Fund and its objective was high current income. Since
adopting its current objectives (November 1, 1995), the cumulative return is
11.2% for the four-year period ended October 31, 1999. Total returns for the
periods ended October 31, 1995 should not be considered representative of the
present Fund under its current objectives.
The SEC yield of Emerging Markets Income Fund for the 30-day period
ended October 31, 1999 was 8.36%.
Calculation of the Fund's yield does not take into account "Section 988
Transactions." (See "TAXES.")
Quotations of each Fund's performance are historical, show the
performance of a hypothetical investment, and are not intended to indicate
future performance. An investor's shares when redeemed may be worth more or less
than their original cost. Performance of a Fund will vary based on changed in
market conditions and the level of the Fund's expenses.
Comparison of Fund Performance
In connection with communicating its performance to current or
prospective shareholders, a Fund also may compare these figures to the
performance of unmanaged indices which may assume reinvestment of dividends or
interest but generally do not reflect deductions for administrative and
management costs. From time to time, in advertising and marketing literature, a
Fund's performance may be compared to the performance of broad groups of mutual
funds with similar investment goals, as tracked by independent organizations..
From time to time, in marketing and other Fund literature, Directors
and officers of the Funds, the Funds' portfolio manager, or members of the
portfolio management team may be depicted and quoted to give prospective and
current shareholders a better sense of the outlook and approach of those who
manage the Funds. In addition, the amount of assets that the Adviser has under
management in various geographical areas may be quoted in advertising and
marketing materials.
45
<PAGE>
Historical information on the value of the dollar versus foreign
currencies may be used from time to time in advertisements concerning the Funds.
Such historical information is not indicative of future fluctuations in the
value of the U.S. dollar against these currencies. In addition, marketing
materials may cite country and economic statistics and historical stock market
performance for any of the countries in which a Fund invests.
From time to time, in advertising and marketing literature, a Fund's
performance may be compared to the performance of broad groups of mutual funds
with similar investment goals, as tracked by independent organizations.
From time to time, in marketing and other Fund literature, Directors
and officers of a Fund, the Fund's portfolio manager, or members of the
portfolio management team may be depicted and quoted to give prospective and
current shareholders a better sense of the outlook and approach of those who
manage the Fund. In addition, the amount of assets that the Adviser has under
management in various geographical areas may be quoted in advertising and
marketing materials.
The Funds may be advertised as an investment choice in Scudder's
college planning program. Statistical and other information, as provided by the
Social Security Administration, may be used in marketing materials pertaining to
retirement planning in order to estimate future payouts of social security
benefits. Estimates may be used on demographic and economic data.
Marketing and other Fund literature may include a description of the
potential risks and rewards associated with an investment in the Funds. The
description may include a "risk/return spectrum" which compares the Funds to
other Scudder funds or broad categories of funds, such as money market, bond or
equity funds, in terms of potential risks and returns. Money market funds are
designed to maintain a constant $1.00 share price and have a fluctuating yield.
Share price, yield and total return of a bond fund will fluctuate. The share
price and return of an equity fund also will fluctuate. The description may also
compare the Funds to bank products, such as certificates of deposit. Unlike
mutual funds, certificates of deposit are insured up to $100,000 by the U.S.
government and offer a fixed rate of return.
Because bank products guarantee the principal value of an investment
and money market funds seek stability of principal, these investments are
considered to be less risky than investments in either bond or equity funds,
which may involve the loss of principal. However, all long-term investments,
including investments in bank products, may be subject to inflation risk, which
is the risk of erosion of the value of an investment as prices increase over a
long time period. The risks/returns associated with an investment in bond or
equity funds depend upon many factors. For bond funds these factors include, but
are not limited to, a fund's overall investment objective, the average portfolio
maturity, credit quality of the securities held, and interest rate movements.
For equity funds, factors include a fund's overall investment objective, the
types of equity securities held and the financial position of the issuers of the
securities. The risks/returns associated with an investment in international
bond or equity funds also will depend upon currency exchange rate fluctuation.
A risk/return spectrum generally will position the various investment
categories in the following order: bank products, money market funds, bond funds
and equity funds. Shorter-term bond funds generally are considered less risky
and offer the potential for less return than longer-term bond funds. The same is
true of domestic bond funds relative to international bond funds, and bond funds
that purchase higher quality securities relative to bond funds that purchase
lower quality securities. Growth and income equity funds are generally
considered to be less risky and offer the potential for less return than growth
funds. In addition, international equity funds usually are considered more risky
than domestic equity funds but generally offer the potential for greater return.
Risk/return spectrums also may depict funds that invest in both
domestic and foreign securities or a combination of bond and equity securities.
Evaluation of Fund performance or other relevant statistical
information made by independent sources may also be used in advertisements
concerning the Funds, including reprints of, or selections from, editorials or
articles about these Funds.
46
<PAGE>
ORGANIZATION OF THE FUNDS
The Funds are separate series of Global/International Fund, Inc., a
Maryland corporation organized on May 15, 1986. The name of the Corporation was
changed, effective May 29, 1998, from Scudder Global Fund, Inc. The Corporation
currently consists of five series: Scudder Global Bond Fund, Scudder
International Bond Fund, Scudder Global Fund, Global Discovery Fund and Scudder
Emerging Markets Income Fund. The Board of Directors has
subdivided the shares of Global Discovery Fund into four classes, namely, the
Scudder Shares and the Global Discovery Fund Kemper Class A, Class B and Class C
shares.
The authorized capital stock of the Corporation consists of 800 million
shares with $0.01 par value, 300 million shares of which are allocated to
Scudder Global Bond Fund, 200 million shares of which are allocated to Scudder
International Bond Fund and 100 million shares each are allocated to Scudder
Global Fund, Global Discovery Fund and Scudder Emerging Markets Growth Fund.
Each share of each series of the Corporation (or class thereof) has equal rights
as to each other share of that series (or class) as to voting for directors,
redemption, dividends and liquidation. The Directors have the authority to issue
additional series of shares and to designate the relative rights and preferences
as between the different series. All shares issued and outstanding are fully
paid and non-assessable, transferable, and redeemable at net asset value at the
option of the shareholder. Shares have no pre-emptive or conversion rights.
Shares of the Corporation entitle their holders to one vote per share;
however, separate votes are taken by each series on matters affecting an
individual series and by class on matters affecting an individual class. For
example, a change in investment policy for a series would be voted upon only by
shareholders of the series involved. Additionally, approval of the investment
advisory agreement is a matter to be determined separately by each series.
Approval by the shareholders of one series is effective as to that series
whether or not enough votes are received from the shareholders of the other
series to approve such agreement as to the other series.
The shares of the Corporation have non-cumulative voting rights, which
means that the holders of more than 50% of the shares voting for the election of
Directors can elect 100% of the directors if they choose to do so, and, in such
event, the holders of the remaining less than 50% of the shares voting for the
election of Directors will not be able to elect any person or persons to the
Board of Directors.
The Directors, in their discretion, may authorize the division of
shares of different series of the Funds (or shares of either series) into
different classes and may authorize shares of different classes to be
distributed by different methods. Although shareholders of different classes of
a series would have an interest in the same portfolio of assets, shareholders of
different classes may bear different expenses in connection with different
methods of distribution. .
Maryland corporate law provides that a Director of the Corporation
shall not be liable for actions taken in good faith, in a manner he or she
reasonably believes to be in the best interests of the Corporation and with the
care that an ordinarily prudent person in a like position would use under
similar circumstances. In so acting, a Director shall be fully protected in
relying in good faith upon the records of the Corporation and upon reports made
to the Corporation by persons selected in good faith by the Directors as
qualified to make such reports. The By-Laws provide that the Corporation will
indemnify Directors and officers of the Corporation against liabilities and
expenses reasonably incurred in connection with litigation in which they may be
involved because of their positions with the Corporation, to the fullest extent
permitted by Maryland corporate law as amended from time to time. However,
nothing in the Articles of Incorporation, as amended, or the By-Laws protects or
indemnifies a Director or officer against any liability to which he or she would
otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross
negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his or
her office.
47
<PAGE>
6 INVESTMENT ADVISER
Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. (the "Adviser"), an investment counsel
firm, acts as investment adviser to the Fund. This organization, the predecessor
of which is Scudder, Stevens & Clark, Inc., is one of the most experienced
investment counsel firms in the U. S. It was established as a partnership in
1919 and pioneered the practice of providing investment counsel to individual
clients on a fee basis. In 1928 it introduced the first no-load mutual fund to
the public. In 1953 the Adviser introduced Scudder International Fund, Inc., the
first mutual fund available in the U.S. investing internationally in securities
of issuers in several foreign countries. The predecessor firm reorganized from a
partnership to a corporation on June 28, 1985. On December 31, 1997, Zurich
Insurance Company ("Zurich") acquired a majority interest in the Adviser, and
Zurich Kemper Investments, Inc., a Zurich subsidiary, became part of the
Adviser. The Adviser's name changed to Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. On
September 7, 1998, the businesses of Zurich (including Zurich's 70% interest in
Scudder Kemper) and the financial services businesses of B.A.T Industries p.l.c.
("B.A.T") were combined to form a new global insurance and financial services
company known as Zurich Financial Services Group. By way of a dual holding
company structure, former Zurich shareholders initially owned approximately 57%
of Zurich Financial Services Group, with the balance initially owned by former
B.A.T shareholders.
Founded in 1872, Zurich is a multinational, public corporation
organized under the laws of Switzerland. Its home office is located at
Mythenquai 2, 8002 Zurich, Switzerland. Historically, Zurich's earnings have
resulted from its operations as an insurer as well as from its ownership of its
subsidiaries and affiliated companies (the "Zurich Insurance Group"). Zurich and
the Zurich Insurance Group provide an extensive range of insurance products and
services and have branch offices and subsidiaries in more than 40 countries
throughout the world.
The principal source of the Adviser's income is professional fees
received from providing continuous investment advice, and the firm derives no
income from brokerage or underwriting of securities. Today, it provides
investment counsel for many individuals and institutions, including insurance
companies, colleges, industrial corporations, and financial and banking
organizations, as well as providing investment advice to over 280 open and
closed-end mutual funds. The Adviser maintains a large research department,
which conducts continuous studies of the factors that affect the position of
various industries, companies and individual securities. The Adviser receives
published reports and statistical compilations from issuers and other sources,
as well as analyses from brokers and dealers who may execute portfolio
transactions for the Adviser's clients. However, the Adviser regards this
information and material as an adjunct to its own research activities. The
Adviser's international investment management team travels the world,
researching hundreds of companies. In selecting the securities in which the
Funds may invest, the conclusions and investment decisions of the Adviser with
respect to the Funds are based primarily on the analyses of its own research
department.
Certain investments may be appropriate for a Fund and also for other
clients advised by the Adviser. Investment decisions for a Fund and other
clients are made with a view to achieving their respective investment objectives
and after consideration of such factors as their current holdings, availability
of cash for investment and the size of their investments generally. Frequently,
a particular security may be bought or sold for only one client or in different
amounts and at different times for more than one but less than all clients.
Likewise, a particular security may be bought for one or more clients when one
or more other clients are selling the security. In addition, purchases or sales
of the same security may be made for two or more clients on the same day. In
such event, such transactions will be allocated among the clients in a manner
believed by the Adviser to be equitable to each. In some cases, this procedure
could have an adverse effect on the price or amount of the securities purchased
or sold by a Fund. Purchase and sale orders for a Fund may be combined with
those of other clients of the Adviser in the interest of achieving the most
favorable net results to the Fund.
The present investment management agreements (the "Agreements") became
effective September 7, 1998, were approved at a shareholder meeting held on
December 15, 1998 and were most recently approved by the Directors on September
14, 1999.
The Agreements will continue in effect until September 30, 2000 and
from year to year thereafter only if their continuance is approved annually by
the vote of a majority of those Directors who are not parties to such Agreements
or interested persons of the Adviser or the Corporation, cast in person at a
meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval, and either by a vote
of the Corporation's Directors or of a majority of the outstanding voting
securities of the
48
<PAGE>
respective Fund. The Agreements may be terminated at any time without payment of
penalty by either party on sixty days' written notice and automatically
terminate in the event of their assignment.
Under each Agreement, the Adviser regularly provides a Fund with
continuing investment management for the Fund's portfolio consistent with the
Fund's investment objectives, policies and restrictions and determines what
securities shall be purchased for the portfolio of the Fund, what portfolio
securities shall be held or sold by the Fund, and what portion of the Fund's
assets shall be held uninvested, subject always to the provisions of the
Corporation's Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws, of the 1940 Act and the
Code and to the Fund's investment objectives, policies and restrictions, and
subject, further, to such policies and instructions as the Directors of the
Corporation may from time to time establish. The Adviser also advises and
assists the officers of the Corporation in taking such steps as are necessary or
appropriate to carry out the decisions of its Directors and the appropriate
committees of the Directors regarding the conduct of the business of the
Corporation.
Under each Agreement, the Adviser also renders significant
administrative services (not otherwise provided by third parties) necessary for
a Fund's operations as an open-end investment company including, but not limited
to, preparing reports and notices to the Directors and shareholders,
supervising, negotiating contractual arrangements with, and monitoring various
third-party service providers to the Fund (such as the Fund's transfer agent,
pricing agents, custodians, accountants and others); preparing and making
filings with the SEC and other regulatory agencies; assisting in the preparation
and filing of the Fund's federal, state and local tax returns; preparing and
filing the Fund's federal excise tax returns; assisting with investor and public
relations matters; monitoring the valuation of securities and the calculation of
net asset value; monitoring the registration of shares of the Fund under
applicable federal and state securities laws; maintaining the Fund's books and
records to the extent not otherwise maintained by a third party; assisting in
establishing accounting policies of the Funds; assisting in the resolution of
accounting and legal issues; establishing and monitoring the Fund's operating
budget; processing the payment of the Fund's bills; assisting the Fund in, and
otherwise arranging for, the payment of distributions and dividends and
otherwise assisting the Fund in the conduct of its business, subject to the
direction and control of the Directors.
The Adviser pays the compensation and expenses (except those of
attending Board and committee meetings outside New York, New York and Boston,
Massachusetts) of all directors, officers and executive employees of the
Corporation affiliated with the Adviser and makes available, without expense to
the Funds, the services of such directors, officers and employees as may duly be
elected officers, subject to their individual consent to serve and to any
limitations imposed by law, and provides the Funds' office space and facilities.
Global Bond Fund pays the Adviser an annual fee equal to 0.75 of 1.00%
of the first $1 billion of average daily net assets of such Fund and 0.70 of
1.00% of such net assets in excess of $1 billion. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1997, the Adviser did not impose a portion of its management fee
amounting to $664,865, and the portion imposed amounted to $604,704. For the
fiscal year ended October 31, 1998, the Adviser did not impose a portion of its
management fee amounting to $554,345, and the portion imposed amounted to
$314,786. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1999, the Adviser did not impose
a portion of its management fee amounting to $554,345, and the portion imposed
amounted to $314,786. Until February 28, 1999, expenses had been contractually
maintained at 1.00%. Effective March 1, 1999 until February 29, 2001, total Fund
operating expenses are contractually maintained at 1.25%. For the fiscal year
ended October 31, 1999, the Adviser did not impose a portion of its management
fee amounting to $247,004, and the portion imposed amounted to $484,739, of
which $127,303 was unpaid at October 31, 1999.
Emerging Markets Income Fund pays the Adviser a fee equal to an annual
rate of 1.00% of the Fund's average daily net assets. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1997 and 1998 the management fee amounted to $3,563,175 and
$3,051,240, respectively. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1999, the fee
imposed amounted to $1,971,328, of which $152,997 was unpaid at October 31,
1999.
Under each Agreement, a Fund is responsible for all of its other
expenses including organization expenses; fees and expenses incurred in
connection with membership in investment company organizations; broker's
commissions; legal, auditing and accounting expenses; taxes and governmental
fees; the fees and expenses of the Transfer Agent; the cost of preparing share
certificates or any other expenses, including clerical expenses of issue,
redemption or repurchase of shares of capital stock; the expenses of and the
fees for registering or qualifying securities for sale; the fees and expenses of
the Directors, officers and employees who are not affiliated with the Adviser;
the cost of printing and
49
<PAGE>
distributing reports and notices to shareholders; and the fees and disbursements
of custodians. The Corporation may arrange to have third parties assume all or
part of the expenses of sale, underwriting and distribution of shares of Funds.
Each Fund is also responsible for its expenses incurred in connection with
litigation, proceedings and claims and the legal obligation it may have to
indemnify its officers and Directors with respect thereto. The custodian
agreements provide that the custodian shall compute each Fund's net asset value.
The Agreements expressly provide that the Adviser shall not be required to pay a
pricing agent of the Funds for portfolio pricing services, if any.
Each Agreement identifies the Adviser as the exclusive licensee of the
rights to use and sublicense the names "Scudder," "Scudder Kemper Investments,
Inc." and "Scudder, Stevens and Clark, Inc." (together, the "Scudder Marks").
Under this license, the Corporation, with respect to each Fund, has the
non-exclusive right to use and sublicense the Scudder name and marks as part of
its name, and to use the Scudder Marks in the Corporation's investment products
and services.
Each Agreement provides that the Adviser shall not be liable for any
error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the relevant
Fund in connection with matters to which the Agreements relate, except a loss
resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of
the Adviser in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard by the
Adviser of its obligations and duties under the Agreements.
Officers and employees of the Adviser from time to time may have
transactions with various banks, including the Funds' custodian banks. It is the
Adviser's opinion that the terms and conditions of those transactions which have
occurred were not influenced by existing or potential custodial or other Fund
relationships.
The Adviser may serve as Adviser to other funds with investment
objectives and policies similar to those of the Funds that may have different
distribution arrangements or expenses, which may affect performance.
None of the officers or Directors may have dealings with the Funds as
principals in the purchase or sale of securities, except as individual
subscribers or holders of shares of the Funds.
The term Scudder Investments is the designation given to the services
provided by Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. and its affiliates to the Scudder
Family of Funds.
Pursuant to an Agreement between the Adviser and AMA Solutions, Inc., a
subsidiary of the American Medical Association (the "AMA"), dated May 9, 1997,
the Adviser has agreed, subject to applicable state regulations, to pay AMA
Solutions, Inc. royalties in an amount equal to 5% of the management fee
received by the Adviser with respect to assets invested by AMA members in
Scudder funds in connection with the AMA InvestmentLink(SM) Program. The Adviser
will also pay AMA Solutions, Inc. a general monthly fee, currently in the amount
of $833. The AMA and AMA Solutions, Inc. are not engaged in the business of
providing investment advice and neither is registered as an investment adviser
or broker/dealer under federal securities laws. Any person who participates in
the AMA InvestmentLink(SM) Program will be a customer of the Adviser (or of a
subsidiary thereof) and not the AMA or AMA Solutions, Inc. AMA
InvestmentLink(SM) is a service mark of AMA Solutions, Inc.
Personal Investments by Employees of the Adviser
Employees of the Adviser are permitted to make personal securities
transactions, subject to requirements and restrictions set forth in the
Adviser's Code of Ethics. The Code of Ethics contains provisions and
requirements designed to identify and address certain conflicts of interest
between personal investment activities and the interests of investment advisory
clients such as the Funds. Among other things, the Code of Ethics, which
generally complies with standards recommended by the Investment Company
Institute's Advisory Group on Personal Investing, prohibits certain types of
transactions absent prior approval, imposes time periods during which personal
transactions may not be made in certain securities, and requires the submission
of duplicate broker confirmations and monthly reporting of securities
transactions. Additional restrictions apply to portfolio managers, traders,
research analysts and others involved in the investment advisory process.
Exceptions to these and other provisions of the Code of Ethics may be granted in
particular circumstances after review by appropriate personnel.
50
<PAGE>
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
----------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Position with
Underwriter,
Name, Age and Position Scudder Investor
Address with Corporation Principal Occupation** Services, Inc.
- ------- ---------------- ---------------------- --------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Nicholas Bratt (50)++@ President, all series except Managing Director of Scudder --
Scudder Global Fund Kemper Investments, Inc.
William E. Holzer++@ (49) President, Scudder Global Managing Director of Scudder --
Fund Kemper Investments, Inc.
Sheryle J. Bolton (53) Director Chief Executive Officer and --
Scientific Learning Director, Scientific Learning
Corporation Corporation, Former President
1995 University Ave. and Chief Operating Officer,
Suite 400 Physicians Online, Inc.
San Francisco, CA 94704 (electronic transmission of
clinical information for
physicians (1994-1995)
William T. Burgin (56) Director General Partner, Bessemer --
83 Walnut Street Venture Partners; General
Wellesley, MA 02181-2101 Partner, Deer & Company;
Director, Fort James
Corporation; Director, Galileo
Corporation; Director of
various privately held
companies
Keith R. Fox (45) Director Private Equity Investor, Exeter --
10 East 53rd Street Capital Management
New York, NY 10022 Corporation
William H. Luers (70) Director Chairman and President of the --
The United Nations United .Nations Association
Association of America of America
801 Second Avenue (organizer/researcher of U.N.-
New York, NY 10017 supporting entities);
Retired, President, The
Metropolitan Museum of Art
(1986 to 1999)
Kathryn L. Quirk*#++(46) Director, Vice President Managing Director of Scudder Director, Senior Vice
and Assistant Secretary Kemper Investments, Inc. President, Chief Legal
Officer and Assistant
Clerk
51
<PAGE>
Position with
Underwriter,
Name, Age and Position Scudder Investor
Address with Corporation Principal Occupation** Services, Inc.
- ------- ---------------- ---------------------- --------------
Joan E. Spero (55) Director President, Doris Duke --
Doris Duke Charitable Charitable Foundation(1997-
Foundation present); Undersecretary of
650 Fifth Avenue State for Economic, Business
19th Floor and Agricultural Affairs
New York, NY 10128 (March 1993-January 1997)
Paul Bancroft III (69) Honorary Director Venture Capitalist and
79 Pine Lane Consultant: Retired President,
Box 6639 Chief Executive Officer and
Snowmass Village, CO Director, Besemer Securities
81615 Corporation
Thomas J. Devine (72) Honorary Director Consultant --
450 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10022
William H. Gleysteen, Jr. Honorary Director Consultant; Guest Scholar, --
(72) Brookings Institution;
4937 Crescent Street President, The Japan Society,
Bethesda, MD 20816 Inc. (1989-December 1995)
Robert G. Stone, Jr. (76) Honorary Director Chairman Emeritus and --
405 Lexington Avenue Director, Kirby Corporation
New York, NY 10174 (inland and offshore marine
transportation and diesel
repairs)
Jan C. Faller ( )+ Vice President Vice President of Scudder --
Kemper Investments, Inc.
Ann M. McCreary++(43) Vice President Managing Director of Scudder --
Kemper Investments, Inc.
Gerald J. Moran++ (59) Vice President Senior Vice President of --
Scudder Kemper Investments,
Inc.
Isabel M. Saltzman+ (44) Vice President Managing Director of Scudder --
Kemper Investments, Inc.
John R. Hebble+ (41) Treasurer Senior Vice President of Assistant Treasurer
Scudder Kemper Investments,
Inc.
52
<PAGE>
Position with
Underwriter,
Name, Age and Position Scudder Investor
Address with Corporation Principal Occupation** Services, Inc.
- ------- ---------------- ---------------------- --------------
John Millette (37)+ Vice President and Assistant Vice President of --
Secretary Scudder Kemper Investments,
Inc.
Caroline Pearson+ (37) Assistant Secretary Senior Vice President of Clerk
Scudder Kemper Investments,
Inc.; Associate, Dechert Price
& Rhoads (law firm) 1989 -
1997
</TABLE>
* Ms. Quirk is considered by the Corporation and its counsel to be a
person who is an "interested person" of the Adviser or of the
Corporation (as defined in the 1940 Act).
** Unless otherwise stated, all the Directors and officers have been
associated with their respective companies for more than five years,
but not necessarily in the same capacity.
# Ms. Quirk is a member of the Executive Committee, which may exercise
the powers of the Directors when they are not in session.
+ Address: Two International Place, Boston, Massachusetts
++ Address: 345 Park Avenue, New York, New York
@ The President of a series shall have the status of Vice President of
the Corporation.
To the knowledge of the Corporation, as of January 31, 2000, all
Directors and Officers as a group owned beneficially (as the term is defined in
Section 13(d) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) less than 1% of the
shares of Global Bond Fund and Emerging Markets Income Fund outstanding on such
date.
To the knowledge of the Corporation, as of January 31, 2000, 580,012
shares in the aggregate, 6.88% of the outstanding shares, of Global Bond Fund,
were held in the name of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., 101 Montgomery Street, San
Francisco, CA 94104-4122, who may be deemed to be the beneficial owner of
certain of these shares, but disclaims any beneficial ownership therein.
To the knowledge of the Corporation, as of January 31, 2000, 5,066,716
shares in the aggregate, 22.59% of the outstanding shares, of the Fund, were
Francisco, CA 94104-4122, who may be deemed to be the beneficial owner of
certain of these shares, but disclaims any beneficial ownership therein.
Except as stated above, to the knowledge of the Corporation, as of
January 31, 2000, no person owned beneficially more than 5% of a Fund's
outstanding shares.
The Directors and officers also serve in similar capacities with
respect to other Scudder funds.
53
<PAGE>
REMUNERATION
Responsibilities of the Board -- Board and Committee Meetings
The Board of Directors is responsible for the general oversight of each
Fund's business. A majority of the Board's members are not affiliated with
Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. These "Independent Directors" have primary
responsibility for assuring that each Fund is managed in the best interests of
its shareholders.
The Board of Directors meets at least quarterly to review the
investment performance of each Fund and other operational matters, including
policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance with various regulatory
requirements. At least annually, the Independent Directors review the fees paid
to the Adviser and its affiliates for investment advisory services and other
administrative and shareholder services. In this regard, they evaluate, among
other things, each Fund's investment performance, the quality and efficiency of
the various other services provided, costs incurred by the Adviser and its
affiliates and comparative information regarding fees and expenses of
competitive funds. They are assisted in this process by each Fund's independent
public accountants and by independent legal counsel selected by the Independent
Directors.
All the Independent Directors serve on the Committee on Independent
Directors, which nominates Independent Directors and considers other related
matters, and the Audit Committee, which selects each Fund's independent public
accountants and reviews accounting policies and controls. In addition,
Independent Directors from time to time have established and served on task
forces and subcommittees focusing on particular matters such as investment,
accounting and shareholder service issues. Compensation of Officers and
Directors
The Independent Directors receive the following compensation from the
Funds of Global/International Fund, Inc.: an annual director's fee of $3,500; a
fee of $325 for attendance at each board meeting, audit committee meeting or
other meeting held for the purposes of considering arrangements between the
Corporation on behalf of each Fund and the Adviser or any affiliate of the
Adviser; $100 for all other committee meetings; and reimbursement of expenses
incurred for travel to and from Board Meetings. No additional compensation is
paid to any Independent Director for travel time to meetings, attendance at
directors' educational seminars or conferences, service on industry or
association committees, participation as speakers at directors' conferences or
service on special director task forces or subcommittees. Independent Directors
do not receive any employee benefits such as pension or retirement benefits or
health insurance. Notwithstanding the schedule of fees, the Independent
Directors have in the past and may in the future waive a portion of their
compensation.
The Independent Directors also serve in the same capacity for other
funds managed by the Adviser. These funds differ broadly in type and complexity
and in some cases have substantially different Director fee schedules. The
following table shows the aggregate compensation received by each Independent
Director during 1999 from the Corporation and from all of the Scudder funds as a
group.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name Global/International Fund, Inc.* All Scudder Funds
---- -------------------------------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Paul Bancroft III** $31,500 $159,991 (25 funds)
Honorary Director
Sheryle J. Bolton $38,000 $179,860 (24 funds)
Director
William T. Burgin $36,375 $160,325 (23 funds)
Director
Keith R. Fox $36,375 $160,325 (23 funds)
Director
54
<PAGE>
Name Global/International Fund, Inc.* All Scudder Funds
---- -------------------------------- -----------------
William H. Gleysteen, $0.00 $19,933@ (2 funds)
Jr. Honorary Director
William H. Luers $39,625 $212,596 (26 funds)
Director
Joan E. Spero*** $39,625 $175,275 (23 funds)
Director
</TABLE>
* Global/International Fund, Inc. consists of five funds: Scudder Global
Fund, Scudder International Bond Fund, Scudder Global Bond Fund, Global
Discovery Fund and Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund.
** Elected as Honorary Director in December 1999, after serving as
Director.
*** Elected as Director of the Corporation in September 1998.
@ This amount does not reflect $6,208 in retirement benefits accrued as
part of Fund Complex expenses, and $3,000, in estimated annual benefits
payable upon retirement. Retirement benefits accrued and proposed are
to be paid to Mr. Gleysteen as additional compensation for serving on
the Board of The Japan Fund, Inc.
Members of the Board of Directors who are employees of the Adviser or
its affiliates receive no direct compensation from the Corporation, although
they are compensated as employees of the Adviser, or its affiliates, as a result
of which they may be deemed to participate in fees paid by each Fund.
DISTRIBUTOR
The Corporation has an underwriting agreement with Scudder Investor
Services, Inc., Two International Place, Boston, MA 02110 (the "Distributor"), a
Massachusetts corporation, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Adviser, a
Delaware corporation. The Corporation's underwriting agreement dated September
7, 1998 will remain in effect until September 30, 2000 and from year to year
thereafter only if its continuance is approved annually by a majority of the
Board of Directors who are not parties to such agreement or interested persons
of any such party and either by a vote of a majority of the Directors or a
majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Corporation. The Directors
most recently approved the underwriting agreement on September 14, 1999.
Under the principal underwriting agreement, the Corporation is
responsible for: the payment of all fees and expenses in connection with the
preparation and filing with the SEC of the Funds' registration statement and
prospectuses and any amendments and supplements thereto, the registration and
qualification of shares for sale in the various states, including registering
the Corporation as a broker/dealer in various states; the fees and expenses of
preparing, printing and mailing prospectuses annually to existing shareholders
(see below for expenses relating to prospectuses paid by the Distributor),
notices, proxy statements, reports or other communications to shareholders of a
Fund; the cost of printing and mailing confirmations of purchases of shares and
any prospectuses accompanying such confirmations; any issue taxes or any initial
transfer taxes; a portion of shareholder toll-free telephone charges and
expenses of shareholder service representatives, the cost of wiring funds for
share purchases and redemptions (unless paid by the shareholder who initiates
the transaction); the cost of printing and postage of business reply envelopes;
and a portion of the cost of computer terminals used by both the Corporation and
the Distributor.
The Distributor will pay for printing and distributing prospectuses or
reports prepared for its use in connection with the offering of the Funds'
shares to the public and preparing, printing and mailing any other literature or
advertising in connection with the offering of shares of a Fund to the public.
The Distributor will pay all fees and expenses in connection with its
qualification and registration as a broker or dealer under federal and state
laws, a portion of the cost of toll-free telephone service and expenses of
service representatives, a portion of the cost of computer terminals, and of any
activity which is primarily intended to result in the sale of shares issued by
the Corporation unless a Rule 12b-1 Plan is in effect which provides that a Fund
shall bear some or all of such expenses.
55
<PAGE>
Note: Although the Funds currently have no 12b-1 Plan, the Funds
would also pay those fees and expenses permitted to be paid or
assumed by a Fund pursuant to a 12b-1 Plan, if any, adopted by
a Fund, notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary in
the underwriting agreement.
As agent, the Distributor currently offers the Funds' shares on a
continuous basis to investors in all states. The underwriting agreement provides
that the Distributor accepts orders for shares at net asset value as no sales
commission or load is charged the investor. The Distributor has made no firm
commitment to acquire shares of the Corporation.
TAXES
Each Fund has elected to be treated as a regulated investment company
under Subchapter M of the Code, or a predecessor statute and has qualified as
such since its inception. It intends to continue to qualify for such treatment.
Such qualification does not involve governmental supervision or management of
investment practices or policy.
A regulated investment company qualifying under Subchapter M of the
Code is required to distribute to its shareholders at least 90 percent of its
investment company taxable income (including net short-term capital gain) and
generally is not subject to federal income tax to the extent that it distributes
annually its investment company taxable income and net realized capital gains in
the manner required under the Code.
If for any taxable year a Fund does not qualify for the special federal
income tax treatment afforded regulated investment companies, all of its taxable
income will be subject to federal income tax at regular corporate rates (without
any deduction for distributions to its shareholders).
Each Fund is subject to a 4% nondeductible excise tax on amounts
required to be but not distributed under a prescribed formula. The formula
requires payment to shareholders during a calendar year of distributions
representing at least 98% of a Fund's ordinary income for the calendar year, at
least 98% of the excess of its capital gains over capital losses (adjusted for
certain ordinary losses) realized during the one-year period ending October 31
during such year, and all ordinary income and capital gains for prior years that
were not previously distributed.
Investment company taxable income generally is made up of dividends,
interest and net short-term capital gains in excess of net long-term capital
losses, less expenses. Net realized capital gains for a fiscal year are computed
by taking into account any capital loss carryforward of a Fund.
At October 31, 1999, Global Bond Fund had a net tax basis capital loss
carryforward of approximately $7,990,000, which may be applied against any
realized net taxable capital gains of each succeeding year until fully utilized
or until October 31, 2002, ($686,000), October 31, 2003 ($5,010,000), October
31, 2004 ($737,000) and October 31, 2007 ($1,557,000), the respective expiration
dates, whichever occurs first.
At October 31, 1999, Emerging Markets Income Fund had a net tax basis
capital loss carryforward of approximately $115,201,000, which may be applied
against any realized net taxable capital gains of each succeeding year until
fully utilized or until October 31, 2006, ($60,953,000) or October 31, 2007
($54,248,000), the respective expiration dates.
If any net realized long-term capital gains in excess of net realized
short-term capital losses are retained by a Fund for reinvestment, requiring
federal income taxes to be paid thereon by a Fund, that Fund intends to elect to
treat such capital gains as having been distributed to shareholders. As a
result, each shareholder will report such capital gains as long-term capital
gains, will be able to claim a proportionate share of federal income taxes paid
by a Fund on such gains as a credit against the shareholder's federal income tax
liability, and will be entitled to increase the adjusted tax basis of the
shareholder's Fund shares by the difference between such reported gains and the
shareholder's tax credit. If a Fund makes such an election, it may not be
treated as having met the excise tax distribution requirement.
Distributions of investment company taxable income are taxable to
shareholders as ordinary income.
Dividends from domestic corporations are not expected to comprise a
substantial part of a Fund's gross income. If any such dividends constitute a
portion of a Fund's gross income, a portion of the income distributions of that
Fund may be eligible for the 70% deduction for dividends received by
corporations. Shareholders will be informed of the
56
<PAGE>
portion of dividends which so qualify. The dividends-received deduction is
reduced to the extent the shares of a Fund with respect to which the dividends
are received are treated as debt-financed under federal income tax law and is
eliminated if either those shares or shares of the Fund are deemed to have been
held by the Fund or the shareholder, as the case may be, for less than 46 days
during the 90-day period beginning 45 days before the shares become ex-dividend.
Properly designated distributions of the excess of net long-term
capital gain over net short-term capital loss are taxable to shareholders as
long-term capital gains, regardless of the length of time the shares of a Fund
have been held by such shareholders. Such distributions are not eligible for the
dividends-received deduction. Any loss realized upon the redemption of shares
held at the time of redemption for six months or less will be treated as a
long-term capital loss to the extent of any amounts treated as distributions of
long-term capital gain during such six-month period.
Distributions of investment company taxable income and net realized
capital gains will be taxable as described above, whether received in shares or
in cash. Shareholders electing to receive distributions in the form of
additional shares will have a cost basis for federal income tax purposes in each
share so received equal to the net asset value of a share on the reinvestment
date.
All distributions of investment company taxable income and net realized
capital gain, whether received in shares or in cash, must be reported by each
shareholder on his or her federal income tax return. Dividends declared in
October, November or December with a record date in such a month will be deemed
to have been received by shareholders on December 31, if paid during January of
the following year. Redemptions of shares, including exchanges for shares of
another Scudder fund, may result in tax consequences (gain or loss) to the
shareholder and are also subject to these reporting requirements.
An individual may make a deductible IRA contribution of up to $2,000
or, if less, the amount of the individual's earned income for any taxable year
only if (i) neither the individual nor his or her spouse (unless filing separate
returns) is an active participant in an employer's retirement plan, or (ii) the
individual (and his or her spouse, if applicable) has an adjusted gross income
below a certain level ($52,000 for married individuals filing a joint return,
with a phase-out of the deduction for adjusted gross income between $52,000 and
$62,000; $32,000 for a single individual, with a phase-out for adjusted gross
income between $32,000 and $42,000). However, an individual not permitted to
make a deductible contribution to an IRA for any such taxable year may
nonetheless make nondeductible contributions up to $2,000 to an IRA (up to
$2,500 per individual for married couples if only one spouse has earned income)
for that year. There are special rules for determining how withdrawals are to be
taxed if an IRA contains both deductible and nondeductible amounts. In general,
a proportionate amount of each withdrawal will be deemed to be made from
nondeductible contributions; amounts treated as a return of nondeductible
contributions will not be taxable. Also, annual contributions may be made to a
spousal IRA even if the spouse has earnings in a given year if the spouse elects
to be treated as having no earnings (for IRA contribution purposes) for the
year.
Distributions by a Fund result in a reduction in the net asset value of
that Fund's shares. Should a distribution reduce the net asset value below a
shareholder's cost basis, such distribution would nevertheless be taxable to the
shareholder as ordinary income or capital gain as described above, even though,
from an investment standpoint, it may constitute a partial return of capital. In
particular, investors should consider the tax implications of buying shares just
prior to a distribution. The price of shares purchased at that time includes the
amount of the forthcoming distribution. Those purchasing just prior to a
distribution will then receive a partial return of capital upon the
distribution, which will nevertheless be taxable to them.
Each Fund intends to qualify for and may make the election permitted
under Section 853 of the Code so that shareholders may (subject to limitations)
be able to claim a credit or deduction on their federal income tax returns for,
and will be required to treat as part of the amounts distributed to them, their
pro rata portion of qualified taxes paid by a Fund to foreign countries (which
taxes relate primarily to investment income). Each Fund may make an election
under Section 853 of the Code, provided that more than 50% of the value of the
total assets of a Fund at the close of the taxable year consists of securities
in foreign corporations. The foreign tax credit available to shareholders is
subject to certain limitations imposed by the Code except in the case of certain
electing individual shareholders who have limited creditable foreign taxes and
no foreign source income other than passive investment-type income. Furthermore,
the foreign tax credit is eliminated with respect to foreign taxes withheld on
dividends if the dividend-paying shares or the shares of the Fund are held by
the Fund or the shareholder, as the case may be, for less than 16 days (46 days
in the case
57
<PAGE>
of preferred shares) during the 30-day period (90-day period for preferred
shares) beginning 15 days (45 days for preferred shares) before the shares
become ex-dividend. In addition, if a Fund fails to satisfy these holding period
requirements, it cannot elect under Section 853 to pass through to shareholders
the ability to claim a deduction for the related foreign taxes.
The Fund may make an election to mark to market its shares of these
foreign investment companies in lieu of being subject to U.S. federal income
taxation. At the end of each taxable year to which the election applies, the
Fund would report as ordinary income the amount by which the fair market value
of the foreign company's stock exceeds the Fund's adjusted basis in these
shares; any mark to market losses and any loss from an actual disposition of
shares would be deductible as ordinary loss to the extent of any net mark to
market gains included in income in prior years. The effect of the election would
be to treat excess distributions and gain on dispositions as ordinary income
which is not subject to a fund level tax when distributed to shareholders as a
dividend. Alternatively, the Fund may elect to include as income and gain its
share of the ordinary earnings and net capital gain of certain foreign
investment companies in lieu of being taxed in the manner described above.
Equity options (including covered call options written on portfolio
stock) and over-the-counter options on debt securities written or purchased by a
Fund will be subject to tax under Section 1234 of the Code. In general, no loss
will be recognized by a Fund upon payment of a premium in connection with the
purchase of a put or call option. The character of any gain or loss recognized
(i.e. long-term or short-term) will generally depend, in the case of a lapse or
sale of the option, on a Fund's holding period for the option, and in the case
of the exercise of a put option, on a Fund's holding period for the underlying
property. The purchase of a put option may constitute a short sale for federal
income tax purposes, causing an adjustment in the holding period of any property
in a Fund's portfolio similar to the property underlying the put option. If a
Fund writes an option, no gain is recognized upon its receipt of a premium. If
the option lapses or is closed out, any gain or loss is treated as short-term
capital gain or loss. If a call option is exercised, the character of the gain
or loss depends on the holding period of the underlying stock.
Positions of a Fund which consist of at least one stock and at least
one stock option or other position with respect to a related security which
substantially diminishes that Fund's risk of loss with respect to such stock
could be treated as a "straddle" which is governed by Section 1092 of the Code,
the operation of which may cause deferral of losses, adjustments in the holding
periods of stocks or securities and conversion of short-term capital losses into
long-term capital losses. An exception to these straddle rules exists for
certain "qualified covered call options" on stock written by the relevant Fund.
Many futures and forward contracts entered into by a Fund and listed
nonequity options written or purchased by a Fund (including options on debt
securities, options on futures contracts, options on securities indices and
options on currencies), will be governed by Section 1256 of the Code. Absent a
tax election to the contrary, gain or loss attributable to the lapse, exercise
or closing out of any such position generally will be treated as 60% long-term
and 40% short-term capital gain or loss, and on the last trading day of the
Fund's fiscal year, all outstanding Section 1256 positions will be marked to
market (i.e., treated as if such positions were closed out at their closing
price on such day), with any resulting gain or loss recognized as 60% long-term
and 40% short-term capital gain or loss. Under Section 988 of the Code,
discussed below, foreign currency gain or loss from foreign currency-related
forward contracts, certain futures and options and similar financial instruments
entered into or acquired by a Fund will be treated as ordinary income or loss.
If a Fund writes a covered call option on portfolio stock, no gain is
recognized upon its receipt of a premium. If the option lapses or is closed out,
any gain or loss is treated as short-term capital gain or loss. If the option is
exercised, the character of the gain or loss depends on the holding period of
the underlying stock.
Positions of a Fund which consist of at least one position not governed
by Section 1256 and at least one futures or forward contract or nonequity option
or other position governed by Section 1256 which substantially diminishes that
Fund's risk of loss with respect to such other position will be treated as a
"mixed straddle." Although mixed straddles are subject to the straddle rules of
Section 1092 of the Code, the operation of which may cause deferral of losses,
adjustments in the holding periods of securities and conversion of short-term
capital losses into long-term capital losses, certain tax elections exist for
them which reduce or eliminate the operation of these rules. Each Fund will
monitor its transactions in options, foreign currency futures and forward
contracts and may make certain tax elections in connection with these
investments.
58
<PAGE>
Notwithstanding any of the foregoing, recent tax law changes may
require the Fund to recognize gain (but not loss) from a constructive sale of
certain "appreciated financial positions" if the Fund enters into a short sale,
offsetting notional principal contract, futures or forward contract transaction
with respect to the appreciated position or substantially identical property.
Appreciated financial positions subject to this constructive sale treatment are
interests (including options, futures and forward contracts and short sales) in
stock, partnership interests, certain actively traded trust instruments and
certain debt instruments. Constructive sale treatment of appreciated financial
positions does not apply to certain transactions closed in the 90-day period
ending with the 30th day after the close of the Fund's taxable year, if certain
conditions are met.
Similarly, if a Fund enters into a short sale of property that becomes
substantially worthless, the Fund will be required to recognize gain at that
time as though it had closed the short sale. Future regulations may apply
similar treatment to other strategic transactions with respect to property that
becomes substantially worthless.
Under the Code, gains or losses attributable to fluctuations in
exchange rates which occur between the time a Fund accrues receivables or
liabilities denominated in a foreign currency and the time that Fund actually
collects such receivables or pays such liabilities generally are treated as
ordinary income or ordinary loss. Similarly, on disposition of debt securities
denominated in a foreign currency and on disposition of certain options, futures
and forward contracts, gains or losses attributable to fluctuations in the value
of foreign currency between the date of acquisition of the security or contract
and the date of disposition are also treated as ordinary gain or loss. These
gains or losses, referred to under the Code as "Section 988" gains or losses,
may increase or decrease the amount of a Fund's investment company taxable
income to be distributed to its shareholders as ordinary income.
Each Fund may make an election to mark to market its shares of these
foreign investment companies, in lieu of being subject to U.S. federal income
taxation. At the end of each taxable year to which the election applies, each
Fund would report as ordinary income the amount by which the fair market value
of the foreign company's stock exceeds the Fund's adjusted basis in these
shares; any mark-to-market losses and any loss from an actual disposition of
stock would be deductible as ordinary losses to the extent of any net
mark-to-market gains previously included in income in prior years. The effect of
this election would be to treat excess distributions and gain on dispositions as
ordinary income which is not subject to a Fund-level tax when distributed to
shareholders as a dividend. Alternatively, the Funds may elect to include as
income and gain their share of the ordinary earnings and net capital gain of
certain foreign investment companies in lieu of being taxed in the manner
described above.
If a Fund holds zero coupon securities or other securities which are
issued at a discount a portion of the difference between the issue price and the
face value of such securities ("original issue discount") will be treated as
income to the Fund each year, even though the Fund will not receive cash
interest payments from these securities. This original issue discount (imputed
income) will comprise a part of the investment company taxable income of the
Fund which must be distributed to shareholders in order to maintain the
qualification of the Fund as a regulated investment company and to avoid federal
income tax at the Fund level. In addition, if a Fund invests in certain high
yield original issue discount obligations issued by corporations, a portion of
the original issue discount accruing on the obligation may be eligible for the
deduction for dividends received by corporations. In such event, dividends of
investment company taxable income received from a Fund by its corporate
shareholders, to the extent attributable to such portion of accrued original
issue discount, may be eligible for this deduction for dividends received by
corporations if so designated by a Fund in a written notice to shareholders.
Each Fund will be required to report to the Internal Revenue Service
all distributions of investment company taxable income and capital gains as well
as gross proceeds from the redemption or exchange of Fund shares, except in the
case of certain exempt shareholders. Under the backup withholding provisions of
Section 3406 of the Code, distributions of investment company taxable income and
capital gains and proceeds from the redemption or exchange of the shares of a
regulated investment company may be subject to withholding of federal income tax
at the rate of 31% in the case of non-exempt shareholders who fail to furnish
the investment company with their taxpayer identification numbers and with
required certifications regarding their status under the federal income tax law.
Withholding may also be required if a Fund is notified by the IRS or a broker
that the taxpayer identification number furnished by the shareholder is
incorrect or that the shareholder has previously failed to report interest or
dividend income. If the
59
<PAGE>
withholding provisions are applicable, any such distributions and proceeds,
whether taken in cash or reinvested in additional shares, will be reduced by the
amounts required to be withheld.
Shareholders of each Fund may be subject to state and local taxes on
distributions received from a Fund and on redemptions of a Fund's shares.
The foregoing discussion of U.S. federal income tax law relates solely
to the application of that law to U.S. persons, i.e., U.S. citizens and
residents and U.S. corporations, partnerships, trusts and estates. Each
shareholder who is not a U.S. person should consider the U.S. and foreign tax
consequences of ownership of shares of a Fund, including the possibility that
such a shareholder may be subject to a U.S. withholding tax at a rate of 30% (or
at a lower rate under an applicable income tax treaty) on amounts constituting
ordinary income received by him or her, where such amounts are treated as income
from U.S. sources under the Code.
Shareholders should consult their tax advisers about the application of
the provisions of tax law described in this Statement of Additional Information
in light of their particular tax situations.
PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS
Brokerage Commissions
Allocation of brokerage is supervised by the Adviser.
The primary objective of the Adviser in placing orders for the purchase
and sale of securities for a Fund is to obtain the most favorable net results,
taking into account such factors as price, commission where applicable, size of
order, difficulty of execution and skill required of the executing
broker/dealer. The Adviser seeks to evaluate the overall reasonableness of
brokerage commissions paid (to the extent applicable) through the familiarity of
the Distributor with commissions charged on comparable transactions, as well as
by comparing commissions paid by a Fund to reported commissions paid by others.
The Adviser reviews on a routine basis commission rates, execution and
settlement services performed, making internal and external comparisons.
The Funds' purchases and sales of fixed-income securities are generally
placed by the Adviser with primary market makers for these securities on a net
basis, without any brokerage commission being paid by a Fund. Trading does,
however, involve transaction costs. Transactions with dealers serving as primary
market makers reflect the spread between the bid and asked prices. Purchases of
underwritten issues may be made, which will include an underwriting fee paid to
the underwriter.
When it can be done consistently with the policy of obtaining the most
favorable net results, it is the Adviser's practice to place such orders with
broker/dealers who supply research, market and statistical information to a
Fund. The term "research, market and statistical information" includes advice as
to the value of securities; the advisability of investing in, purchasing or
selling securities; the availability of securities or purchasers or sellers of
securities; and analyses and reports concerning issuers, industries, securities,
economic factors and trends, portfolio strategy and the performance of accounts.
The Adviser is authorized when placing portfolio transactions for a Fund to pay
a brokerage commission in excess of that which another broker might charge for
executing the same transaction on account of execution services and the receipt
of research, market or statistical information. The Adviser will not place
orders with broker/dealers on the basis that the broker/dealer has or has not
sold shares of a Fund. In effecting transactions in over-the-counter securities,
orders are placed with the principal market makers for the security being traded
unless, after exercising care, it appears that more favorable results are
available elsewhere.
To the maximum extent feasible, it is expected that the Adviser will
place orders for portfolio transactions through the Distributor, which is a
corporation registered as a broker-dealer and a subsidiary of the Adviser; the
Distributor will place orders on behalf of the Funds with issuers, underwriters
or other brokers and dealers. The Distributor will not receive any commission,
fee or other remuneration from the Funds for this service.
Although certain research, market and statistical information from
broker/dealers may be useful to a Fund and to the Adviser, it is the opinion of
the Adviser that such information only supplements the Adviser's own research
effort since the information must still be analyzed, weighed, and reviewed by
the Adviser's staff. Such information may be
60
<PAGE>
useful to the Adviser in providing services to clients other than a Fund, and
the Adviser in connection with a Fund uses not all such information. Conversely,
such information provided to the Adviser by broker/dealers through whom other
clients of the Adviser effect securities transactions may be useful to the
Adviser in providing services to a Fund.
The Directors review from time to time whether the recapture for the
benefit of a Fund of some portion of the brokerage commissions or similar fees
paid by a Fund on portfolio transactions is legally permissible and advisable.
For the fiscal years ended October 31, 1997, 1998 and 1999, neither
Global Bond Fund nor Emerging Markets Income Fund paid brokerage commissions.
Portfolio Turnover
Average annual portfolio turnover rate is the ratio of the lesser of
sales or purchases to the monthly average value of the portfolio securities
owned during the year, excluding from both the numerator and the denominator all
securities with maturities at the time of acquisition of one year or less.
Global Bond Fund's portfolio turnover rate for each of the fiscal years
ended October 31, 1999 and 1998 was 148.5% and 218.3%, respectively.
Emerging Markets Income Fund's portfolio turnover rate for each of the
fiscal years ended October 31, 1999 and 1998 was 326.8% and 239.7%,
respectively.
Recent economic and market conditions necessitated more active trading,
resulting in the higher portfolio turnover rates. A higher rate involves greater
transaction expenses to a Fund and may result in the realization of net capital
gains, which would be taxable to shareholders when distributed. Purchases and
sales are made for a Fund's portfolio whenever necessary, in management's
opinion, to meet the Fund's objectives. Under normal investment conditions,
Global Bond Fund's portfolio turnover rate is expected to exceed 200%.
NET ASSET VALUE
The net asset value of shares of the Fund is computed as of the close
of regular trading on the Exchange on each day the Exchange is open for trading
(the "Value Time"). The Exchange is scheduled to be closed on the following
holidays: New Year's Day, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good
Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas,
and on the preceding Friday or subsequent Monday when one of these holidays
falls on a Saturday or Sunday, respectively. Net asset value per share is
determined by dividing the value of the total assets of the Fund, less all
liabilities, by the total number of shares outstanding.
An exchange-traded equity security is valued at its most recent sale
price on the exchange it is traded as of the Value Time. Lacking any sales, the
security is valued at the calculated mean between the most recent bid quotation
and the most recent asked quotation (the "Calculated Mean") on such exchange as
of the Value Time. Lacking a Calculated Mean quotation the security is valued at
the most recent bid quotation on such exchange as of the Value Time. An equity
security which is traded on the National Association of Securities Dealers
Automated Quotation ("Nasdaq") system will be valued at its most recent sale
price on such system as of the Value Time. Lacking any sales, the security will
be valued at the most recent bid quotation as of the Value Time. The value of an
equity security not quoted on the Nasdaq system, but traded in another
over-the-counter market, is its most recent sale price if there are any sales of
such security on such market as of the Value Time. Lacking any sales, the
security is valued at the Calculated Mean quotation for such security as of the
Value Time. Lacking a Calculated Mean quotation the security is valued at the
most recent bid quotation as of the Value Time.
Debt securities, other than money market instruments, are valued at
prices supplied by the Fund's pricing agent(s) which reflect broker/dealer
supplied valuations and electronic data processing techniques. Money market
instruments with an original maturity of sixty days or less maturing at par
shall be valued at amortized cost, which the Board believes approximates market
value. If it is not possible to value a particular debt security pursuant to
these valuation methods, the value of such security is the most recent bid
quotation supplied by a bona fide marketmaker. If it
61
<PAGE>
is not possible to value a particular debt security pursuant to the above
methods, the Adviser may calculate the price of that debt security, subject to
limitations established by the Board.
An exchange traded options contract on securities, currencies, futures
and other financial instruments is valued at its most recent sale price on such
exchange. Lacking any sales, the options contract is valued at the Calculated
Mean. Lacking any Calculated Mean, the options contract is valued at the most
recent bid quotation in the case of a purchased options contract, or the most
recent asked quotation in the case of a written options contract. An options
contract on securities, currencies and other financial instruments traded
over-the-counter is valued at the most recent bid quotation in the case of a
purchased options contract and at the most recent asked quotation in the case of
a written options contract. Futures contracts are valued at the most recent
settlement price. Foreign currency exchange forward contracts are valued at the
value of the underlying currency at the prevailing exchange rate.
If a security is traded on more than one exchange, or upon one or more
exchanges and in the over-the-counter market, quotations are taken from the
market in which the security is traded most extensively.
If, in the opinion of the Fund's Valuation Committee, the value of a
portfolio asset as determined in accordance with these procedures does not
represent the fair market value of the portfolio asset, the value of the
portfolio asset is taken to be an amount which, in the opinion of the Valuation
Committee, represents fair market value on the basis of all available
information. The value of other portfolio holdings owned by the Fund is
determined in a manner which, in the discretion of the Valuation Committee most
fairly reflects fair market value of the property on the valuation date.
Following the valuations of securities or other portfolio assets in
terms of the currency in which the market quotation used is expressed ("Local
Currency"), the value of these portfolio assets in terms of U.S. dollars is
calculated by converting the Local Currency into U.S. dollars at the prevailing
currency exchange rate on the valuation date.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Experts
The financial highlights of each Fund included in the Funds' combined
prospectus and the Financial Statements incorporated by reference in this
combined Statement of Additional Information have been so included or
incorporated by reference in reliance on the reports of PricewaterhouseCoopers
LLP, 160 Federal Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02110, independent accountants,
and given on the authority of that firm as experts in accounting and auditing.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP audits the financial statements of each Fund and
provides other audit, tax, and related services.
Other Information
Many of the investment changes in a Fund will be made at prices
different from those prevailing at the time they may be reflected in a regular
report to shareholders of the Fund. These transactions will reflect investment
decisions made by the Adviser in the light of the objectives and policies of the
Fund, and such factors as its other portfolio holdings and tax considerations
and should not be construed as recommendations for similar action by other
investors.
The CUSIP number for Global Bond Fund is 378947-40-2.
The CUSIP number for Emerging Markets Income Fund is 378947-10-5.
Each Fund has a fiscal year end of October 31.
The law firm of Dechert Price & Rhoads is counsel for the Funds.
The Corporation employs Brown Brothers Harriman and Co., 40 Water
Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109 as Custodian for each Fund. Brown Brothers
Harriman and Co. have entered into agreements with foreign subcustodians
approved by the Directors of the Corporation pursuant to Rule 17f-5 of the 1940
Act.
62
<PAGE>
Scudder Fund Accounting Corporation
Scudder Fund Accounting Corporation ("SFAC"), Two International Place,
Boston, Massachusetts, 02210- 4103, a subsidiary of the Adviser, computes net
asset value for the Funds. Each Fund pays Scudder Fund Accounting Corporation an
annual fee equal to 0.08% of the first $150 million of average net assets, 0.06%
of such assets in excess of $150 million and 0.04% of such assets in excess of
$1 billion.
For the fiscal years ended October 31, 1997, 1998 and 1999, Global Bond
Fund incurred fees of $156,250, $105,220 and $89,318, respectively, of which
$13,332 was unpaid on October 31,1999.
For the fiscal years ended October 31, 1997, 1998 and 1999, Emerging
Markets Income Fund incurred fees of $258,022, $225,422 and $163,968,
respectively, of which $26,591 was unpaid on October 31, 1999.
Scudder Service Corporation
Scudder Service Corporation ("SSC"), P.O. Box 2291, Boston,
Massachusetts 02107-2291, a subsidiary of the Adviser, is the transfer,
dividend-paying and shareholder service agent for each Fund. Each Fund pays SSC
an annual fee of $25.00 for each account maintained for a participant.
For the fiscal years ended October 31, 1997, 1998 and 1999, Global Bond
Fund incurred fees of $375,659, $250,999 and $201,430, respectively, of which
$30,794 was unpaid on October 31, 1999.
For the fiscal years ended October 31, 1997, 1998 and 1999, Emerging
Markets Income Fund incurred fees of $606,320, $556,145 and $443,319,
respectively, of which $61,881 was unpaid on October 31, 1999.
Scudder Trust Company
Scudder Trust Company ("STC"), an affiliate of the Adviser, provides
subaccounting and recordkeeping services for shareholder accounts in certain
retirement and employee benefit plans. Annual service fees are paid by the Fund
to STC, Two International Place, Boston, Massachusetts 02110-4103 for such
accounts. Each Fund pays STC an annual fee of $29.00 per shareholder account.
For the fiscal years ended October 31, 1997, 1998 and 1999, Global Bond
Fund incurred fees of $16,092, $13,737 and $11,702, respectively, of which
$2,890 was unpaid on October 31, 1999.
For the fiscal years ended October 31, 1997, 1998 and 1999, Emerging
Markets Income Fund incurred fees of $33,703, $41,122 and $56,013, respectively,
of which $13,150 was unpaid on October 31, 1999.
The Directors of the Corporation have considered the appropriateness of
using this combined Statement of Additional Information for the Funds. There is
a possibility that a Fund might become liable for any misstatement, inaccuracy,
or incomplete disclosure in this Statement of Additional Information concerning
the other Fund.
The Funds, or the Adviser (including any affiliate of the Adviser), or
both, may pay unaffiliated third parties for providing recordkeeping and other
administrative services with respect to accounts of participants in retirement
plans or other beneficial owners of Fund shares whose interests are held in an
omnibus account.
The Funds' prospectus and this Statement of Additional Information omit
certain information contained in the Registration Statement which the
Corporation has filed with the SEC under the Securities Act of 1933 and
reference is hereby made to the Registration Statement for further information
with respect to the Fund and the securities offered hereby. This Registration
Statement is available for inspection by the public at the SEC in Washington,
D.C.
63
<PAGE>
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Global Bond Fund
The financial statements, including the Investment Portfolio of Global
Bond Fund, together with the Report of Independent Accountants, Financial
Highlights and notes to financial statements, are incorporated by reference and
attached hereto in the Annual Report to Shareholders of the Fund dated October
31, 1999, and are hereby deemed to be part of this Statement of Additional
Information.
Emerging Markets Income Fund
The financial statements, including the Investment Portfolio of
Emerging Markets Income Fund, together with the Report of Independent
Accountants, Financial Highlights and notes to financial statements, are
incorporated by reference and attached hereto in the Annual Report to
Shareholders of the Fund dated October 31, 1998, and are hereby deemed to be
part of this Statement of Additional Information.
64
<PAGE>
APPENDIX
The following is a description of the ratings given by Moody's and S&P
to corporate and municipal bonds.
Ratings of Municipal and Corporate Bonds
S&P:
Debt rated AAA has the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poor's.
Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong. Debt rated AA
has a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal and differs from
the highest rated issues only in small degree. Debt rated A has a strong
capacity to pay interest and repay principal although it is somewhat more
susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic
conditions than debt in higher rated categories. Debt rated BBB is regarded as
having an adequate capacity to pay interest and repay principal. Whereas it
normally exhibits adequate protection parameters, adverse economic conditions or
changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay
interest and repay principal for debt in this category than in higher rated
categories.
Debt rated BB, B, CCC, CC and C is regarded as having predominantly
speculative characteristics with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay
principal. BB indicates the least degree of speculation and C the highest. While
such debt will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these
are outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposures to adverse conditions.
Debt rated BB has less near-term vulnerability to default than other
speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to
adverse business, financial, or economic conditions which could lead to
inadequate capacity to meet timely interest and principal payments. The BB
rating category is also used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is
assigned an actual or implied BBB- rating. Debt rated B has a greater
vulnerability to default but currently has the capacity to meet interest
payments and principal repayments. Adverse business, financial, or economic
conditions will likely impair capacity or willingness to pay interest and repay
principal. The B rating category is also used for debt subordinated to senior
debt that is assigned an actual or implied BB or BB- rating.
Debt rated CCC has a currently identifiable vulnerability to default,
and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions to
meet timely payment of interest and repayment of principal. In the event of
adverse business, financial, or economic conditions, it is not likely to have
the capacity to pay interest and repay principal. The CCC rating category is
also used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or
implied B or B- rating. The rating CC typically is applied to debt subordinated
to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied CCC rating. The rating C
typically is applied to debt subordinated to senior debt which is assigned an
actual or implied CCC- debt rating. The C rating may be used to cover a
situation where a bankruptcy petition has been filed, but debt service payments
are continued. The rating C1 is reserved for income bonds on which no interest
is being paid. Debt rated D is in payment default. The D rating category is used
when interest payments or principal payments are not made on the date due even
if the applicable grace period had not expired, unless S&P believes that such
payments will be made during such grace period. The D rating also will be used
upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition if debt service payments are
jeopardized.
Moody's:
Bonds, which are rated Aaa, are judged to be of the best quality. They
carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as
"gilt edge." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally
stable margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are
likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair
the fundamentally strong position of such issues. Bonds, which are rated Aa, are
judged to be of high quality by all standards. Together with the Aaa group they
comprise what are generally known as high grade bonds. They are rated lower than
the best bonds because margins of protection may not be as large as in Aaa
securities or fluctuation of protective elements may be of greater amplitude or
there may be other elements present which make the long term risks appear
somewhat larger than in Aaa securities. Bonds which are rated A possess many
favorable investment attributes and are to be considered as upper medium grade
obligations. Factors giving security to principal and interest are considered
adequate but elements may be present which suggest a susceptibility to
impairment sometime in the future.
<PAGE>
Bonds, which are rated Baa, are considered as medium grade obligations,
i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments
and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in
fact have speculative characteristics as well. Bonds, which are rated Ba, are
judged to have speculative elements; their future cannot be considered as well
assured. Often the protection of interest and principal payments may be very
moderate and thereby not well safeguarded during other good and bad times over
the future. Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class. Bonds,
which are rated B generally, lack characteristics of the desirable investment.
Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of other terms of
the contract over any long period of time may be small.
Bonds, which are rated Caa, are of poor standing. Such issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal or
interest. Bonds, which are rated Ca, represent obligations that are speculative
in a high degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked
shortcomings. Bonds which are rated C are the lowest rated class of bonds and
issues so rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever
attaining any real investment standing.
66
<PAGE>
[LOGO] SCUDDER INVESTMENTS (SM)
- -----------------------------
EQUITY/GLOBAL
- -----------------------------
Scudder Global
Discovery Fund*
Fund #010
Prospectus
March 1, 2000
* This fund is properly known as
Global Discovery Fund
As with all mutual funds, the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) does not
approve or disapprove these shares or determine whether the information in this
prospectus is truthful or complete. It is a criminal offense for anyone to
inform you otherwise.
<PAGE>
Scudder Global Discovery Fund
How the fund works
2 Investment Approach
3 Main Risks To Investors
4 The Fund's Track Record
5 How Much Investors Pay
6 ther Policies and Risks
7 Who Manages and Oversees the Fund
9 Financial Highlights
How to invest in the fund
11 How to Buy Shares
12 How to Exchange or Sell Shares
13 Policies You Should Know About
18 Understanding Distributions and Taxes
<PAGE>
How the fund works
On the next few pages, you'll find information about this fund's investment
goal, the main strategies it uses to pursue that goal, and the main risks that
could affect its performance.
Whether you are considering investing in the fund or are already a shareholder,
you'll probably want to look this information over carefully. You may want to
keep it on hand for reference as well.
Remember that mutual funds are investments, not bank deposits. They're not
insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. Their share
prices will go up and down, so be aware that you could lose money.
You can access all Scudder fund prospectuses online at www.scudder.com
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ticker symbol | SGSCX fund number | 010
Scudder Global Discovery Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Approach
The fund seeks above-average capital appreciation over the long term. The fund
invests at least 65% of total assets in common stocks and other equities of
small companies throughout the world (companies with market values similar to
the smallest 20% of the Salomon Brothers Broad Market Index). The fund generally
focuses on countries with developed economies (including the U.S.). As of
December 31, 1999, companies in which the fund invests typically have a market
capitalization of between $75 million and $5.7 billion.
In choosing stocks, the portfolio managers use a combination of three analytical
disciplines:
Bottom-up research. The managers look for companies that appear to have
effective management, strong competitive positioning, vigorous research and
development efforts and sound balance sheets.
Growth orientation. The managers generally look for companies that have
above-average potential for sustainable growth of revenue or earnings compared
to large companies, and whose market value appears reasonable in light of their
business prospects.
Analysis of regional themes. The managers look for significant social, economic,
industrial and demographic changes, seeking to identify stocks that may benefit
from them.
The managers may favor different securities at different times, while still
maintaining variety in terms of the countries and industries represented.
The fund will normally sell a stock when the managers believe its price is
unlikely to go much higher, its fundamentals have deteriorated, other
investments offer better opportunities or in the course of adjusting its
emphasis on a given country.
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER INVESTMENTS
While most of the fund's equities are common stocks, some may be other types of
equities, such as convertible stocks or preferred stocks. The fund may invest up
to 35% of total assets in common stocks and other equities of large companies or
in debt securities (of which, 5% of net assets may be junk bonds, i.e., grade BB
and below).
Although the fund is permitted to use various types of derivatives (contracts
whose value is based on, for example, indices, currencies or securities), they
don't intend to use them as principal investments, and might not use them at
all.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 | Scudder Global Discovery Fund
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] This fund may interest long-term investors who
want to diversify a large-cap or domestic
portfolio of investments.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Main Risks to Investors
There are several factors that could hurt the fund's performance, cause you to
lose money or make the fund perform less well than other investments.
The most important factor with this fund is how U.S. and foreign stock markets
perform -- something that depends on a large number of factors, including
economic, political and demographic trends. When U.S. and foreign stock prices
fall, you should expect the value of your investment to fall as well. Foreign
stocks tend to be more volatile than their U.S. counterparts, for reasons
ranging from political and economic uncertainties to a higher risk that
essential information may be incomplete or wrong. These risks tend to be greater
in emerging markets.
Compared to large company stocks, small and mid-size stocks tend to be more
volatile, in part because these companies tend to be less established and the
valuation of their stocks often depends on future expectations. Because a stock
represents ownership in its issuer, stock prices can be hurt by poor management,
shrinking product demand and other business risks. These may affect single
companies as well as groups of companies. In addition, changing currency rates
could add to the fund's investment losses or reduce its investment gains.
Other factors that could affect performance include:
o the managers could be wrong in their analysis of economic trends,
countries, industries, companies or other matters
o growth stocks may be out of favor for certain periods
o derivatives could produce disproportionate losses
o at times, it could be hard to value some investments or to get an
attractive price for them
3 | Scudder Global Discovery Fund
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] While a fund's past performance isn't
necessarily a sign of how it will do in the
future, it can be valuable for an investor to
different ways: year by year and over time.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Fund's Track Record
The bar chart shows how returns for the fund's Scudder Shares have varied from
year to year, which may give some idea of risk. The table shows average annual
total returns for the fund's Scudder Shares and a broad-based market index
(which, unlike the fund, does not have any fees or expenses). The performance of
both the fund and the index varies over time. All figures on this page assume
reinvestment of dividends and distributions.
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31 each year
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
THE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT CONTAINS A BAR CHART HERE
BAR CHART DATA:
-0.07 38.18 -7.68 17.84 21.47 9.93 16.43 64.62
`92 `93 `94 `95 `96 `97 `98 '99
Best Quarter: 41.47%, Q4 1999 Worst Quarter: -16.62%, Q3 1998
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Average Annual Total Return (%) as of 12/31/1999
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
1 Year 5 Years Since Inception*
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Fund 64.62 24.70 18.08
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Index 22.34 13.03 11.18
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Index: The Salomon Brothers World Equity Extended Market Index, an
unmanaged index of small capitalization stocks from 22 countries.
* Since 9/10/1991. Index comparison begins 9/30/1991.
In the chart, total returns from 1992 through 1994 and for 1996 would have been
lower if operating expenses hadn't been reduced.
In the table, total returns from inception through 1994 and for 1996 would have
been lower if operating expenses hadn't been reduced.
4 | Scudder Global Discovery Fund
<PAGE>
How Much Investors Pay
This fund has no sales charges or other shareholder fees. The fund does have
annual operating expenses, and as a shareholder you pay them indirectly. This
table shows fees for the fund's Scudder Shares.
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Fee Table
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Fees (paid directly from your investment) None
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Operating Expenses (deducted from fund assets)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Management Fee 1.10%
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution (12b-1) Fee None
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Other Expenses* 0.58%
-------
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Total Annual Operating Expenses 1.68%
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
* Includes costs of shareholder servicing, custody, accounting services
and similar expenses, which may vary with fund size and other factors.
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Expense Example
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Based on the costs above, this example is designed to help you compare expenses
of the fund's Scudder Shares to those of other funds. The example assumes
operating expenses remain the same and that you invested $10,000, earned 5%
annual returns, reinvested all dividends and distributions and sold your shares
at the end of each period. This is only an example; your actual expenses will be
different.
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
$171 $530 $913 $1,987
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
5 | Scudder Global Discovery Fund
<PAGE>
Other Policies and Risks
While the sections on the previous pages describe the main points of the fund's
strategy and risks, there are a few other issues to know about:
o Although major changes tend to be infrequent, the fund's Board could
change the fund's goal without seeking shareholder approval.
o As a temporary defensive measure, the fund could shift up to 100% of
assets into investments such as money market securities. This could
prevent losses, but would mean that the fund was not pursuing its goal.
o This fund may trade securities more actively than many funds, which
could mean higher expenses (thus lowering return) and higher taxable
distributions.
Euro conversion
Funds that invest in foreign securities could be affected by accounting
differences, changes in tax treatment or other issues related to the conversion
of certain European currencies into the euro, which is already underway. The
investment adviser is working to address euro-related issues as they occur and
understands that other key service providers are taking similar steps. Still,
there's some risk that this problem could materially affect a fund's operation
(including its ability to calculate net asset value and to handle purchases and
redemptions), its investments or securities markets in general.
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FOR MORE INFORMATION
This prospectus doesn't tell you about every policy or risk of investing in the
fund.
If you want more information on the fund's allowable securities and investment
practices and the characteristics and risks of each one, request a copy of the
Statement of Additional Information (see back cover).
Keep in mind that there is no assurance that any mutual fund will achieve its
goal.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6 | Other Policies and Risks
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] Scudder Kemper, the company with overall
responsibility for managing the fund, takes a
takes a team approach to asset management.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Who Manages and Oversees the Fund
The investment adviser
The fund's investment adviser is Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc., 345 Park
Avenue, New York, NY. Scudder Kemper has more than 80 years of experience
managing mutual funds, and currently has more than $290 billion in assets under
management.
The fund is managed by a team of investment professionals, who individually
represent different areas of expertise and who together develop investment
strategies and make buy and sell decisions. Supporting the fund managers are
Scudder Kemper's many economists, research analysts, traders, and other
investment specialists, located in offices across the United States and around
the world.
As payment for serving as investment adviser, Scudder Kemper receives a
management fee from the fund. For the most recent fiscal year, the actual amount
the fund paid in management fees was 1.10% of average daily net assets.
The portfolio managers
The following people handle the day-to-day management of the fund.
Gerald J. Moran Sewall Hodges
Lead Portfolio Manager o Began investment career
o Began investment career in 1986
in 1968 o Joined the adviser in 1995
o Joined the adviser in 1968 o Joined the fund team
o Joined the fund team in 1995
in 1992
Steven T. Stokes
o Began investment career
in 1986
o Joined the adviser in 1996
o Joined the fund team
in 1999
7 | Who Manages and Oversees the Fund
<PAGE>
The Board
A mutual fund's Board is responsible for the general oversight of the fund's
business. The majority of the Board is not affiliated with Scudder Kemper. The
independent members have primary responsibility for assuring that the fund is
managed in the best interests of its shareholders. The following people comprise
the fund's Board.
Directors Honorary Directors
Sheryle J. Bolton Paul Bancroft III
o Chief Executive Officer, o Venture Capitalist and Consultant
Scientific Learning Corporation
Thomas J. Devine
William T. Burgin o Consultant
o General Partner,
Bessemer Venture Partners William H. Gleysteen
o Consultant
Keith R. Fox o Guest Scholar,
o Private Equity Investor Brookings Institution
William H. Luers Robert G. Stone
o Chairman and President, U.N. o Chairman Emeritus and Director,
Association of America Kirby Corporation
Kathryn L. Quirk
o Managing Director,
Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc.
Joan E. Spero
o President, Doris Duke
Charitable Foundation
8 | Who Manages and Oversees the Fund
<PAGE>
Financial Highlights
This table is designed to help you understand the financial performance of the
fund's Scudder Shares in recent years. The figures in the first part of each
table are for a single share. The total return figures represent the percentage
that an investor in the fund would have earned (or lost), assuming all dividends
and distributions were reinvested. This information has been audited by
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, whose report, along with the fund's financial
statements, is included in the annual report (see "Shareholder reports" on the
back cover).
Scudder Global Discovery Fund (b)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years Ended October 31, 1999(a) 1998(a) 1997(a) 1996(a) 1995
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value, beginning of period $19.81 $21.64 $20.45 $17.54 $16.27
-------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (.13) (.10) (.12) (.04) (.03)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments 8.49 .32 2.30 3.59 1.38
-------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations 8.36 .22 2.18 3.55 1.35
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less distributions:
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From net investment income -- (.64) (.13) (.20) --
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From net realized gains on investment
transactions -- (1.41) (.86) (.44) (.08)
-------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total distributions -- (2.05) (.99) (.64) (.08)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $28.17 $19.81 $21.64 $20.45 $17.54
-------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Return (%) 41.95 1.19 11.14 20.97 8.32
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios and Supplemental Data
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets, end of period ($ millions) 404 310 349 351 255
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of operating expenses to average
daily net assets (%) 1.68 1.65 1.63 1.60 1.69
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of net investment income to average
daily net assets (%) (.66) (.45) (.58) (.20) (.12)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 64 41 61 63 44
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(a) Based on monthly average shares outstanding during the period.
(b) On April 16, 1998 existing shares of the fund were designated as
Scudder Shares and are generally not available to new investors.
9 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
How to invest in the fund
The following pages tell you how to invest in the fund and what to expect as a
shareholder. If you're investing directly with Scudder, all of this information
applies to you.
If you're investing through a "third party provider" -- for example, a workplace
retirement plan, financial supermarket or financial adviser -- your provider may
have its own policies or instructions, and you should follow those.
<PAGE>
How to Buy Shares
Use these instructions to invest directly with Scudder. Make out your check to
"The Scudder Funds."
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
First investment Additional investments
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
$2,500 or more for regular $100 or more for regular
accounts accounts
$1,000 or more for IRAs $50 or more for IRAs
$50 or more with an Automatic
Investment Plan
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By mail or express o Fill out and sign an o Send a check and a Scudder
(see below) application investment slip to us at the
appropriate address below
o Send it to us at the
appropriate address, along o If you don't have an
with an investment check investment slip, simply
include a letter with your
name, account number, the
full name of the fund and
your investment instructions
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By wire o Call 1-800-SCUDDER for o Call 1-800-SCUDDER for
instructions instructions
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By phone -- o Call 1-800-SCUDDER for
instructions
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
With an o To set up regular investments
automatic from a bank checking account,
investment plan -- call 1-800-SCUDDER
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Using
QuickBuy -- o Call 1-800-SCUDDER
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] Regular mail:
The Scudder Funds, PO Box 2291, Boston, MA 02107-2291
Express, registered or certified mail:
The Scudder Funds, 66 Brooks Drive, Braintree, MA 02184-3839
Fax number: 1-800-821-6234 (for exchanging and selling only)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
11 | How to Buy Shares
<PAGE>
How to Exchange or Sell Shares
Use these instructions to exchange or sell shares in an account opened directly
with Scudder.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exchanging into another fund Selling shares
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$2,500 or more to open a new Some transactions, including
account ($1,000 for IRAs) most for over $100,000, can only
be ordered in writing; if you're in
$100 or more for exchanges doubt, see page 15
between existing accounts
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
By phone o Call 1-800-SCUDDER for o Call 1-800-SCUDDER for
or wire instructions instructions
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Using SAIL(TM) o Call 1-800- 343-2890 and o Call 1-800-343-2890 and
follow the instructions follow the instructions
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By mail, Write a letter that includes: Write a letter that includes:
express or fax
(see previous o the fund, class and account o the fund, class and account
page) number you're exchanging number from which you want to
out of sell shares
o the dollar amount or number o the dollar amount or number
of shares you want to exchange of shares you want to sell
o the name and class of the o your name(s), signature(s)
fund you want to exchange into and address, as they appear
on your account
o your name(s), signature(s)
and address, as they appear o a daytime telephone number
on your account
o a daytime telephone number
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
With an automatic o To set up regular cash
withdrawal plan -- payments from a Scudder
account, call 1-800-SCUDDER
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Using QuickSell -- o Call 1-800-SCUDDER
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
12 | How to Exchange or Sell Shares
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] Questions? You can speak to a Scudder representative between 8 a.m. and
8 p.m. Eastern time on any fund business day by calling 1-800-SCUDDER.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Policies You Should Know About
Along with the instructions on the previous pages, the policies below may affect
you as a shareholder. Some of this information, such as the section on dividends
and taxes, applies to all investors, including those investing through
investment providers.
If you are investing through an investment provider, check the materials you got
from them. As a general rule, you should follow the information in those
materials wherever it contradicts the information given here. Please note that
an investment provider may charge its own fees.
In either case, keep in mind that the information in this prospectus applies
only to the fund's Scudder Shares. The fund does have other share classes, which
are described in a separate prospectus and which have different fees,
requirements and services.
Policies about transactions
The fund is open for business each day the New York Stock Exchange is open. The
fund calculates its share price for its Scudder Shares every business day, as of
the close of regular trading on the Exchange (typically 4 p.m. Eastern time, but
sometimes earlier, as in the case of scheduled half-day trading or unscheduled
suspensions of trading).
You can place an order to buy or sell shares at any time. Once your order is
received by Scudder Service Corporation, and they have determined that it is a
"good order," it will be processed at the next share price calculated.
Because orders placed through investment providers must be forwarded to Scudder
Service Corporation before they can be processed, you'll need to allow extra
time. A representative of your investment provider should be able to tell you
when your order will be processed.
Policies You Should Know About | 13
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] The Scudder Web site can be a valuable resource for shareholders with
Internet access. Go to www.scudder.com to get up-to-date information,
review balances or even place orders for exchanges.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SAIL(TM), the Scudder Automated Information Line, is available 24 hours a day by
calling 1-800-343-2890. You can use SAIL to get information on Scudder funds
generally and on accounts held directly at Scudder. You can also use it to make
exchanges and sell shares.
QuickBuy and QuickSell let you set up a link between a Scudder account and a
bank account. Once this link is in place, you can move money between the two
with a phone call. You'll need to make sure your bank has Automated Clearing
House (ACH) services. To set up QuickBuy or QuickSell on a new account, see the
account application; to add it to an existing account, call 1-800-SCUDDER.
When you call us to sell shares, we may record the call, ask you for certain
information, or take other steps designed to prevent fraudulent orders. It's
important to understand that as long as we take reasonable steps to ensure that
an order appears genuine, we are not responsible for any losses that may occur.
When you ask us to send or receive a wire, please note that while we don't
charge a fee to receive wires, we will deduct a $5 fee from all wires sent from
us to your bank. Your bank may charge its own fees for handling wires. The funds
can only accept wires of $100 or more.
14 | Policies You Should Know About
<PAGE>
Exchanges among Scudder funds are an option for shareholders who bought their
fund shares directly from Scudder and many other investors as well. Exchanges
are a shareholder privilege, not a right: we may reject any exchange order,
particularly when there appears to be a pattern of "market timing" or other
frequent purchases and sales. We may also reject purchase orders, for these or
other reasons.
When you want to sell more than $100,000 worth of shares, you'll usually need to
place your order in writing and include a signature guarantee. The only
exception is if you want money wired to a bank account that is already on file
with us; in that case, you don't need a signature guarantee. Also, you don't
need a signature guarantee for an exchange, although we may require one in
certain other circumstances.
A signature guarantee is simply a certification of your signature -- a valuable
safeguard against fraud. You can get a signature guarantee from most brokers,
banks, savings institutions and credit unions. Note that you can't get a
signature guarantee from a notary public.
Money from shares you sell is normally sent out within one business day of when
your order is processed (not when it is received), although it could be delayed
for up to seven days. There are also two circumstances when it could be longer:
when you are selling shares you bought recently by check and that check hasn't
cleared yet (maximum delay: 15 days) or when unusual circumstances prompt the
SEC to allow further delays.
Policies You Should Know About | 15
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] If you ever have difficulty placing an order by phone or fax,
you can always send us your order in writing.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
How the fund calculates share price
The share price for the fund's Scudder Shares is its net asset value per share,
or NAV. To calculate NAV, the fund uses the following equation, taking figures
for this share class only:
TOTAL ASSETS - TOTAL LIABILITIES
---------------------------------- = NAV
TOTAL NUMBER OF SHARES OUTSTANDING
We typically use market prices to value securities. However, when a market price
isn't available, or when we have reason to believe it doesn't represent market
realities, we may use fair value methods approved by the fund's Board. In such a
case, the fund's value for a security is likely to be different from quoted
market prices.
To the extent that the fund invests in securities that are traded primarily in
foreign markets, the value of its holdings could change at a time when you
aren't able to buy or sell fund shares. This is because some foreign markets are
open on days when the fund doesn't price its shares.
16 | Policies You Should Know About
<PAGE>
Other rights we reserve
You should be aware that we may do any of the following:
o withhold 31% of your distributions as federal income tax if you have
been notified by the IRS that you are subject to backup withholding, or
if you fail to provide us with a correct taxpayer ID number or
certification that you are exempt from backup withholding
o charge you $10 a year if your account balance falls below $2,500, and
close your account and send you the proceeds if your balance falls
below $1,000; in either case, we will give you 60 days' notice so you
can either increase your balance or close your account (these policies
don't apply to retirement accounts, to investors with $100,000 or more
in Scudder fund shares or in any case where a fall in share price
created the low balance)
o reject a new account application if you don't provide a correct Social
Security or other tax ID number; if the account has already been
opened, we may give you 30 days' notice to provide the correct number
o pay you for shares you sell by "redeeming in kind," that is, by giving
you marketable securities (which typically will involve brokerage costs
for you to liquidate) rather than cash; in most cases, the fund
generally won't make a redemption in kind unless your requests over a
90-day period total more than $250,000 or 1% of the value of the fund's
net assets, whichever is less
o change, add or withdraw various services, fees and account policies
(for example, we may change or terminate the exchange privilege at any
time)
Policies You Should Know About | 17
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] Because each shareholder's tax situation is unique, it's always a good
idea to ask your tax professional about the tax consequences of your
investments, including any state and local tax consequences.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Understanding Distributions and Taxes
By law, a mutual fund is required to pass through to its shareholders virtually
all of its net earnings. A fund can earn money in two ways: by receiving
interest, dividends or other income from securities it holds, and by selling
securities for more than it paid for them. (A fund's earnings are separate from
any gains or losses stemming from your own purchase of shares.) A fund may not
always pay a distribution for a given period.
The fund intends to pay dividends and distributions to its shareholders in
December, and if necessary may do so at other times as well.
You can choose how to receive your dividends and distributions. You can have
them all automatically reinvested in fund shares or all sent to you by check.
Tell us your preference on your application. If you don't indicate a preference,
your dividends and distributions will all be reinvested. For retirement plans,
reinvestment is the only option.
Buying and selling fund shares will usually have tax consequences for you
(except in an IRA or other tax-advantaged account). Your sales of shares may
result in a capital gain or loss for you; whether long-term or short-term
depends on how long you owned the shares. For tax purposes, an exchange is the
same as a sale.
18 | Understanding Distributions and Taxes
<PAGE>
The tax status of the fund earnings you receive, and your own fund transactions,
generally depends on their type:
Generally taxed at ordinary income rates
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
o short-term capital gains from selling fund shares
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
o taxable income dividends you receive from the fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
o short-term capital gains distributions you receive from the fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Generally taxed at capital gains rates
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
o long-term capital gains from selling fund shares
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
o long-term capital gains distributions you receive from the fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
You may be able to claim a tax credit or deduction for your share of any foreign
taxes the fund pays.
The fund will send you detailed tax information every January. These statements
tell you the amount and the tax category of any dividends or distributions you
received. They also have certain details on your purchases and sales of shares.
The tax status of dividends and distributions is the same whether you reinvest
them or not. Dividends or distributions declared in the last quarter of a given
year are taxed in that year, even though you may not receive the money until the
following January.
If you invest right before the fund pays a dividend, you'll be getting some of
your investment back as a taxable dividend. You can avoid this, if you want, by
investing after the fund declares a dividend. In tax-advantaged retirement
accounts you don't need to worry about this.
Corporations may be able to take a dividends-received deduction for a portion of
income dividends they receive.
Understanding Distributions and Taxes | 19
<PAGE>
Notes
<PAGE>
Notes
<PAGE>
To Get More Information
Shareholder reports -- These include commentary from the fund's management team
about recent market conditions and the effect of the fund's strategies on its
performance. They also have detailed performance figures, a list of everything
the fund owns and the fund's financial statements. Shareholders get these
reports automatically. To reduce costs, we mail one copy per household. For more
copies, call 1-800-SCUDDER.
Statement of Additional Information (SAI) -- This tells you more about the
fund's features and policies, including additional risk information. The SAI is
incorporated by reference into this document (meaning that it's legally part of
this prospectus).
If you'd like to ask for copies of these documents, or if you're a shareholder
and have questions, please contact Scudder or the SEC (see below). Materials you
get from Scudder are free; those from the SEC involve a copying fee. If you
like, you can look over these materials at the SEC's Public Reference Room in
Washington, DC or request them electronically at [email protected].
Scudder Funds SEC
PO Box 2291 450 Fifth Street, N.W.
Boston, MA 02107-2291 Washington, DC 20549-0102
1-800-SCUDDER 1-202-942-8090
www.scudder.com www.sec.gov
SEC File Number 811-4670
<PAGE>
GLOBAL DISCOVERY FUND -- SCUDDER SHARES
Global Discovery Fund is a series of Global/International Fund, Inc.
A Diversified Mutual Fund Series Which Seeks
Above-Average Capital Appreciation over the Long Term by
Investing Primarily in the Equity Securities of Small
Companies Located Throughout the World
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
March 1, 2000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This Statement of Additional Information is not a prospectus. The
prospectus of the Scudder Shares class of Global Discovery Fund dated March 1,
2000, as amended from time to time, may be obtained without charge by writing to
Scudder Investor Services, Inc., Two International Place, Boston, Massachusetts
02110-4103 or by calling 1-800-225-2470.
The Annual Report to Shareholders of Scudder Global Discovery Fund
dated October 31, 1999, is incorporated by reference and are hereby deemed to be
part of this Statement of Additional Information.
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
<S> <C>
THE FUND'S INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES............................................................1
General Investment Objective and Policies.......................................................1
Risk Factors....................................................................................2
Specialized Investment Techniques...............................................................9
Investment Restrictions........................................................................13
PURCHASES...............................................................................................21
Additional Information About Opening An Account................................................21
Minimum Balances...............................................................................21
Additional Information About Making Subsequent Investments.....................................21
Additional Information About Making Subsequent Investments by QuickBuy.........................22
Checks.........................................................................................22
Wire Transfer of Federal Funds.................................................................22
Share Price....................................................................................22
Share Certificates.............................................................................22
Other Information..............................................................................22
EXCHANGES AND REDEMPTIONS...............................................................................21
Exchanges......................................................................................23
Redemption by Telephone........................................................................24
Redemption by QuickSell........................................................................25
Redemption by Mail or Fax......................................................................26
Redemption-in-Kind.............................................................................26
Other Information..............................................................................27
FEATURES AND SERVICES OFFERED BY THE FUND...............................................................27
The No-Load Concept............................................................................27
Internet Access................................................................................28
Dividend and Capital Gain Distribution Options.................................................28
Diversification................................................................................29
Reports to Shareholders........................................................................29
Transaction Summaries..........................................................................29
THE SCUDDER FAMILY OF FUNDS.............................................................................30
SPECIAL PLAN ACCOUNTS...................................................................................29
Scudder Retirement Plans: Profit-Sharing and Money Purchase Pension Plans for Corporations
and Self-Employed Individuals..................................................................32
Scudder 401(k): Cash or Deferred Profit-Sharing Plan for Corporations and
Self-Employed Individuals......................................................................33
Scudder IRA: Individual Retirement Account....................................................33
Scudder Roth IRA: Individual Retirement Account...............................................33
Scudder 403(b) Plan............................................................................34
Automatic Withdrawal Plan......................................................................34
Group or Salary Deduction Plan.................................................................34
Automatic Investment Plan......................................................................34
Uniform Transfers/Gifts to Minors Act..........................................................35
DIVIDENDS AND CAPITAL GAINS DISTRIBUTIONS...............................................................35
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION.................................................................................35
Average Annual Total Return....................................................................35
Cumulative Total Return........................................................................36
Total Return...................................................................................36
Comparison of Portfolio Performance............................................................38
i
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued)
Page
Taking a Global Approach.......................................................................38
ORGANIZATION OF THE FUND................................................................................36
INVESTMENT ADVISER......................................................................................38
Personal Investments by Employees of the Adviser...............................................41
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS..................................................................................41
REMUNERATION............................................................................................43
Responsibilities of the Board -- Board and Committee Meetings..................................43
Compensation of Officers and Directors.........................................................44
DISTRIBUTOR.............................................................................................45
TAXES...................................................................................................45
PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS..................................................................................49
Brokerage......................................................................................49
Portfolio Turnover.............................................................................50
NET ASSET VALUE.........................................................................................50
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION..................................................................................51
Experts........................................................................................51
Other Information..............................................................................51
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS....................................................................................52
APPENDIX
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
THE FUND'S INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
Global Discovery Fund (the "Fund") is a diversified series of
Global/International Fund, Inc. (the "Corporation"), an open-end management
investment company which continuously offers and redeems its shares at net asset
value. The Fund is a company of the type commonly known as a mutual fund.
Scudder Global Discovery Fund changed its name to Global Discovery Fund on April
16, 1998.
Global Discovery Fund offers the following classes of shares: Scudder
Shares (the "Scudder Shares" or "Shares"), and Kemper Global Discovery Fund
Class A, B and C Shares. Only the Scudder Shares of Global Discovery Fund are
offered herein.
Changes in portfolio securities are made on the basis of investment
considerations, and it is against the policy of management to make changes for
trading purposes. The Fund cannot guarantee a gain or eliminate the risk of loss
and the net asset value of the Fund's shares will increase or decrease with
changes in the market price of the Fund's investments.
Foreign securities such as those that may be purchased by the Fund may
be subject to foreign governmental taxes which could reduce the yield, if any,
on such securities, although a shareholder of the Fund may, subject to certain
limitations, be entitled to claim a credit or deduction for U.S. federal income
tax purposes for his or her proportionate share of such foreign taxes paid by
the Fund. (See "TAXES.")
Because of the Fund's investment considerations discussed herein and
their investment policies, investment in Shares of the Fund is not intended to
provide a complete investment program for an investor. The value of the Fund's
Shares when sold may be higher or lower than when purchased.
General Investment Objective and Policies
Descriptions in this Statement of Additional Information of a
particular investment practice or technique in which Global Discovery Fund may
engage (such as short selling, hedging, etc.) or a financial instrument in which
the Fund may purchase (such as options, forward foreign currency contracts,
etc.) are meant to descrbe the spectrum of investments that Scudder Kemper
Investments, Inc. (the "Adviser"), in its discretion, might, but is not required
to, use in managing the Fund's portfolio assets. The Adviser may, in its
discretion, at any time employ such practice, technique or instrument for one or
more funds but not for all fund advised by it. Furthermore, it is possible that
certain types of financial instruments or investment techniques described herein
may not be available, permissible, economically feasible or effective for their
intended purposes in all markets. Certain practices, techniques, or instruments
may not be principal activities of the Fund but, to the extent employed, could
from time to time have a material impact on the Fund's performance.
Global Discovery Fund seeks above-average capital appreciation over the
long term by investing primarily in the equity securities of small companies
located throughout the world. The Fund is designed for investors looking for
above-average appreciation potential (when compared with the overall domestic
stock market as reflected by Standard & Poor's 500 Corporation Composite Price
Index) and the benefits of investing globally, but who are willing to accept
above-average stock market risk, the impact of currency fluctuation and little
or no current income.
In pursuit of its objective, the Fund generally invests in small,
rapidly growing companies which offer the potential for above-average returns
relative to larger companies, yet are frequently overlooked and thus undervalued
by the market. The Fund has the flexibility to invest in any region of the
world. It can invest in companies based in emerging markets, typically in the
Far East, Latin America and Eastern Europe, as well as in firms operating in
developed economies, such as those of the United States, Japan and Western
Europe.
The Adviser invests the Fund's assets in companies it believes offer
above-average earnings, cash flow or asset growth potential. It also invests in
companies which may receive greater market recognition over time. The Adviser
believes that these factors offer significant opportunity for long-term capital
appreciation. The Adviser evaluates investments for the Fund from both a
macroeconomic and microeconomic perspective, using fundamental analysis,
including field research. The Adviser analyzes the growth potential and relative
value of possible investments. When evaluating an individual company, the
Adviser takes into consideration numerous factors, including the depth and
quality of management; a company's product line, business strategy and
competitive position; research and development efforts; financial strength,
including degree of leverage; cost structure; revenue and earnings growth
potential; price-earnings ratios and other stock valuation measures.
Secondarily, the Adviser weighs the attractiveness of the country and region in
which a company is located.
<PAGE>
While the Fund's Adviser believes that smaller, lesser-known companies
can offer greater growth potential than larger, more established firms, the
former also involve greater risk and price volatility. To help reduce risk, the
Fund expects, under usual market conditions, to diversify its portfolio widely
by company, industry and country. Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests
at least 65% of its total assets in the equity securities of small companies.
The Fund intends to allocate investments among at least three countries at all
times, one of which may be the United States.
The Fund invests primarily in companies whose individual equity market
capitalization would place them in the same size range as companies in
approximately the lowest 20% of world market capitalization as represented by
the Salomon Brothers Broad Market Index, an index comprised of equity securities
of more than 6,500 small-, medium- and large-sized companies based in 22 markets
around the globe. As of December 31, 1999, companies in which the Fund typically
invests have a market capitalization of between $75 million and $5.7 billion.
The equity securities in which the Fund may invest consist of common
stocks, preferred stocks (either convertible or nonconvertible), rights and
warrants. These securities may be listed on the U.S. or foreign securities
exchanges or traded over-the-counter. For capital appreciation purposes, the
Fund may purchase notes, bonds, debentures, government securities and zero
coupon bonds (any of which may be convertible or nonconvertible). The Fund may
invest in foreign securities and American Depositary Receipts which may be
sponsored or unsponsored. The Fund may also invest in closed-end investment
companies holding foreign securities, enter into repurchase agreements and
engage in strategic transactions. For temporary defensive purposes, the Fund
may, during periods in which conditions in securities markets warrant, invest
without limit in cash and cash equivalents. It is impossible to predict how long
such alternative strategies will be utilized. More information about investment
techniques is provided under "Specialized Investment Techniques of the Funds."
Small Company Risk. The Adviser believes that smaller companies often have sales
and earnings growth rates which exceed those of larger companies, and that such
growth rates may in turn be reflected in more rapid share price appreciation
over time. However, investing in smaller company stocks involves greater risk
than is customarily associated with investing in larger, more established
companies. For example, smaller companies can have limited product lines,
markets, or financial and managerial resources. Smaller companies may also be
dependent on one or a few key persons, and may be more susceptible to losses and
risks of bankruptcy. Also, the securities of smaller companies may be thinly
traded (and therefore have to be sold at a discount from current market prices
or sold in small lots over an extended period of time). Transaction costs in
smaller company stocks may be higher than those of larger companies.
Master/feeder structure. The Board of Directors has the discretion to retain the
current distribution arrangement for the Fund while investing in a master fund
in a master/feeder structure fund as described below.
A master/feeder fund structure is one in which a fund (a "feeder
fund"), instead of investing directly in a portfolio of securities, invests most
or all of its investment assets in a separate registered investment company (the
"master fund") with substantially the same investment objective and policies as
the feeder fund. Such a structure permits the pooling of assets of two or more
feeder funds, preserving separate identities or distribution channels at the
feeder fund level. Based on the premise that certain of the expenses of
operating an investment portfolio are relatively fixed, a larger investment
portfolio may eventually achieve a lower ratio of operating expenses to average
net assets. An existing investment company is able to convert to a feeder fund
by selling all of its investments, which involves brokerage and other
transaction costs and realization of a taxable gain or loss, or by contributing
its assets to the master fund and avoiding transaction costs and, if proper
procedures are followed, the realization of taxable gain or loss.
Interfund Borrowing and Lending Program. The Fund has received exemptive relief
from the SEC which permits the Fund to participate in an interfund lending
program among certain investment companies advised by the Adviser. The interfund
lending program allows the participating funds to borrow money from and loan
money to each other for temporary or emergency purposes. The program is subject
to a number of conditions designed to ensure fair and equitable treatment of all
participating funds, including the following: (1) no fund may borrow money
through the program unless it receives a more favorable interest rate than a
rate approximating the lowest interest rate at which bank loans would be
available to any of the participating funds under a loan agreement; and (2) no
fund may lend money through the program unless it receives a more favorable
return than that available from an investment in repurchase agreements and, to
the extent applicable, money market cash sweep arrangements. In addition, a fund
may participate in the program only if and to the extent that such participation
is consistent with the fund's investment objectives and policies (for instance,
money market funds would normally participate only as lenders and tax exempt
funds only as borrowers). Interfund loans and borrowings may extend overnight,
but could have a maximum duration of seven days. Loans may be called on one
day's notice. A fund may have to borrow from a bank at a higher interest rate if
an interfund loan is called or not renewed. Any delay in repayment to a lending
fund could result in a lost investment opportunity or additional costs. The
program is subject to the oversight and periodic review of the Boards of the
participating funds. To the extent the Fund is actually engaged in
2
<PAGE>
borrowing through the interfund lending program, the Fund, as a matter of
non-fundamental policy, may not borrow for other than temporary or emergency
purposes (and not for leveraging), except that the Fund may engage in reverse
repurchase agreements and dollar rolls for any purpose.
Risk Factors
Foreign Securities. Global Discovery Fund is intended to provide individual and
institutional investors with an opportunity to invest a portion of their assets
in a diversified portfolio of securities of U.S. and foreign companies located
worldwide and is designed for long-term investors who can accept international
investment risk. The Fund is designed for investors who can accept currency and
other forms of international investment risk. The Adviser believes that
allocation of the Fund's assets on a global basis decreases the degree to which
events in any one country, including the U.S., will affect an investor's entire
investment holdings. In the period since World War II, many leading foreign
economies have grown more rapidly than the U.S. economy and from time to time
have had interest rate levels that had a higher real return than the U.S. bond
market. Consequently, the securities of foreign issuers have provided attractive
returns relative to the returns provided by the securities of U.S. issuers,
although there can be no assurance that this will be true in the future.
Investors should recognize that investing in foreign securities
involves certain special considerations, including those set forth below, which
are not typically associated with investing in U.S. securities and which may
affect the Fund's performance favorably or unfavorably. As foreign companies are
not generally subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting
standards, practices and requirements comparable to those applicable to domestic
companies, there may be less publicly available information about a foreign
company than about a domestic company. Many foreign stock markets, while growing
in volume of trading activity, have substantially less volume than that of the
New York Stock Exchange, and securities of some foreign issuers are less liquid
and more volatile than securities of domestic issuers. Similarly, volume and
liquidity in most foreign bond markets is less than that in the U.S. market and
at times, volatility of price can be greater than in the U.S. Further, foreign
markets have different clearance and settlement procedures and in certain
markets there have been times when settlements have been unable to keep pace
with the volume of securities transactions, making it difficult to conduct such
transactions. Delays in settlement could result in temporary periods when assets
of the Fund are uninvested and no return is earned thereon. The inability of the
Fund to make intended security purchases due to settlement problems could cause
the Fund to miss attractive investment opportunities. Inability to dispose of
portfolio securities due to settlement problems either could result in losses to
the Fund due to subsequent declines in value of the portfolio security or, if
the Fund has entered into a contract to sell the security, could result in
possible liability to the purchaser. Fixed commissions on some foreign
securities exchanges are generally higher than negotiated commissions on U.S.
exchanges, although the Adviser will endeavor to achieve the most favorable net
results on the Fund's portfolio transactions. Further, the Fund may encounter
difficulties or be unable to pursue legal remedies and obtain judgment in
foreign courts. There is generally less government supervision and regulation of
business and industry practices, securities exchanges, brokers and listed
companies than in the U.S. It may be more difficult for the Fund's agents to
keep currently informed about corporate actions such as stock dividends or other
matters which may affect the prices of portfolio securities. Communications
between the U.S. and foreign countries may be less reliable than within the
U.S., thus increasing the risk of delayed settlements of portfolio transactions
or loss of certificates for portfolio securities. In addition, with respect to
certain foreign countries, there is the possibility of nationalization,
expropriation, the imposition of confiscatory or withholding taxation,
political, social or economic instability, or diplomatic developments which
could affect U.S. investments in those countries. Investments in foreign
securities may also entail certain risks, such as possible currency blockages or
transfer restrictions, and the difficulty of enforcing rights in other
countries. Moreover, individual foreign economies may differ favorably or
unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as growth of gross national
product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and
balance of payments position. The Adviser seeks to mitigate the risks to the
Fund associated with the foregoing considerations through investment variation
and continuous professional management.
Eastern Europe. Investments in companies domiciled in Eastern European countries
may be subject to potentially greater risks than those of other foreign issuers.
These risks include (i) potentially less social, political and economic
stability; (ii) the small current size of the markets for such securities and
the low volume of trading, which result in less liquidity and in greater price
volatility; (iii) certain national policies which may restrict the Fund's
investment opportunities, including restrictions on investment in issuers or
industries deemed sensitive to national interests; (iv) foreign taxation; (v)
the absence of developed legal structures governing private or foreign
investment or allowing for judicial redress for injury to private property; (vi)
the absence, until recently in certain Eastern European countries, of a capital
market structure or market-oriented economy; and (vii) the possibility that
recent favorable economic developments in Eastern Europe may be slowed or
reversed by unanticipated political or social events in such countries, or in
the countries of the former Soviet Union. Global Discovery Fund may invest up to
5% of its total assets in the securities of issuers domiciled in Eastern
European countries.
3
<PAGE>
Investments in such countries involve risks of nationalization,
expropriation and confiscatory taxation. The Communist governments of a number
of East European countries expropriated large amounts of private property in the
past, in many cases without adequate compensation, and there may be no assurance
that such expropriation will not occur in the future. In the event of such
expropriation, the Fund could lose a substantial portion of any investments it
has made in the affected countries. Further, no accounting standards exist in
East European countries. Finally, even though certain East European currencies
may be convertible into U.S. dollars, the conversion rates may be artificial to
the actual market values and may be adverse to the Fund's shareholders.
Foreign Currencies. Investments in foreign securities usually will involve
currencies of foreign countries. Moreover, the Fund may temporarily hold funds
in bank deposits in foreign currencies during the completion of investment
programs and may purchase forward foreign currency contracts, foreign currency
futures contracts and options on such contracts. Because of these factors, the
value of the assets of the Fund as measured in U.S. dollars may be affected
favorably or unfavorably by changes in foreign currency exchange rates and
exchange control regulations, and the Fund may incur costs in connection with
conversions between various currencies. Although the Funds' custodian values the
Fund's assets daily in terms of U.S. dollars, none of the Funds intends to
convert its holdings of foreign currencies into U.S. dollars on a daily basis.
The Fund will do so from time to time, and investors should be aware of the
costs of currency conversion. Although foreign exchange dealers do not charge a
fee for conversion, they do realize a profit based on the difference (the
"spread") between the prices at which they are buying and selling various
currencies. Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign currency to the Fund at
one rate, while offering a lesser rate of exchange should the Fund desire to
resell that currency to the dealer. The Fund will conduct its foreign currency
exchange transactions either on a spot (i.e., cash) basis at the spot rate
prevailing in the foreign currency exchange market, or through entering into
forward or futures contracts to purchase or sell foreign currencies.
Because the Fund normally will be invested in both U.S. and foreign
securities markets, changes in the Fund's share price may have a low correlation
with movements in the U.S. markets. The Fund's share price will reflect the
movements of both the different stock and bond markets in which it is invested
and of the currencies in which the investments are denominated; the strength or
weakness of the U.S. dollar against foreign currencies may account for part of
the Fund's investment performance. U.S. and foreign securities markets do not
always move in step with each other, and the total returns from different
markets may vary significantly. The Funds invest in many securities markets
around the world in an attempt to take advantage of opportunities wherever they
may arise.
Investing in Emerging Markets. Most emerging securities markets may have
substantially less volume and are subject to less government supervision than
U.S. securities markets. Securities of many issuers in emerging markets may be
less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable domestic issuers. In
addition, there is less regulation of securities exchanges, securities dealers,
and listed and unlisted companies in emerging markets than in the U.S.
Emerging markets also have different clearance and settlement
procedures, and in certain markets there have been times when settlements have
been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transactions. Delays in
settlement could result in temporary periods when a portion of the assets of the
Fund is uninvested and no cash is earned thereon. The inability of the Fund to
make intended security purchases due to settlement problems could cause the Fund
to miss attractive investment opportunities. Inability to dispose of portfolio
securities due to settlement problems could result either in losses to the Fund
due to subsequent declines in value of the portfolio security or, if the Fund
has entered into a contract to sell the security, could result in possible
liability to the purchaser. Costs associated with transactions in foreign
securities are generally higher than costs associated with transactions in U.S.
securities. Such transactions also involve additional costs for the purchase or
sale of foreign currency.
Foreign investment in certain emerging market debt obligations is
restricted or controlled to varying degrees. These restrictions or controls may
at times limit or preclude foreign investment in certain emerging markets debt
obligations and increase the costs and expenses of the Fund. Certain emerging
markets require prior governmental approval of investments by foreign persons,
limit the amount of investment by foreign persons in a particular company, limit
the investment by foreign persons only to a specific class of securities of a
company that may have less advantageous rights than the classes available for
purchase by domiciliaries of the countries and/or impose additional taxes on
foreign investors. Certain emerging markets may also restrict investment
opportunities in issuers in industries deemed important to national interest.
Certain emerging markets may require governmental approval for the
repatriation of investment income, capital or the proceeds of sales of
securities by foreign investors. In addition, if a deterioration occurs in an
emerging market's balance of payments or for other reasons, a country could
impose temporary restrictions on foreign capital remittances. The Fund could be
adversely affected by delays in, or a refusal to grant, any required
governmental approval for repatriation of capital, as well as by the application
to the Fund of any restrictions on investments.
4
<PAGE>
In the course of investment in emerging market debt obligations, the
Fund will be exposed to the direct or indirect consequences of political, social
and economic changes in one or more emerging markets. Political changes in
emerging market countries may affect the willingness of an emerging market
country governmental issuer to make or provide for timely payments of its
obligations. The country's economic status, as reflected, among other things, in
its inflation rate, the amount of its external debt and its gross domestic
product, also affects its ability to honor its obligations. While the Fund
manages its assets in a manner that will seek to minimize the exposure to such
risks, and will further reduce risk by owning the bonds of many issuers, there
can be no assurance that adverse political, social or economic changes will not
cause the Fund to suffer a loss of value in respect of the securities in the
Fund's portfolio.
The risk also exists that an emergency situation may arise in one or
more emerging markets as a result of which trading of securities may cease or
may be substantially curtailed and prices for the Fund's securities in such
markets may not be readily available. The Corporation may suspend redemption of
its shares for any period during which an emergency exists, as determined by the
Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). Accordingly if the Fund believes
that appropriate circumstances exist, it will promptly apply to the SEC for a
determination that an emergency is present. During the period commencing from
the Fund's identification of such condition until the date of the SEC action,
the Fund's securities in the affected markets will be valued at fair value
determined in good faith by or under the direction of the Corporation's Board of
Directors.
Volume and liquidity in most foreign bond markets are less than in the
U.S. and securities of many foreign companies are less liquid and more volatile
than securities of comparable U.S. companies. Fixed commissions on foreign
securities exchanges are generally higher than negotiated commissions on U.S.
exchanges, although the Fund endeavors to achieve the most favorable net results
on its portfolio transactions. There is generally less government supervision
and regulation of business and industry practices, securities exchanges,
brokers, dealers and listed companies than in the U.S. Mail service between the
U.S. and foreign countries may be slower or less reliable than within the U.S.,
thus increasing the risk of delayed settlements of portfolio transactions or
loss of certificates for portfolio securities. In addition, with respect to
certain emerging markets, there is the possibility of expropriation or
confiscatory taxation, political or social instability, or diplomatic
developments which could affect the Fund's investments in those countries.
Moreover, individual emerging market economies may differ favorably or
unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as growth of gross national
product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and
balance of payments position.
The Fund may have limited legal recourse in the event of a default with
respect to certain debt obligations it holds. If the issuer of a fixed-income
security owned by the Fund defaults, the Fund may incur additional expenses to
seek recovery. Debt obligations issued by emerging market country governments
differ from debt obligations of private entities; remedies from defaults on debt
obligations issued by emerging market governments, unlike those on private debt,
must be pursued in the courts of the defaulting party itself. The Fund's ability
to enforce its rights against private issuers may be limited. The ability to
attach assets to enforce a judgment may be limited. Legal recourse is therefore
somewhat diminished. Bankruptcy, moratorium and other similar laws applicable to
private issuers of debt obligations may be substantially different from those of
other countries. The political context, expressed as an emerging market
governmental issuer's willingness to meet the terms of the debt obligation, for
example, is of considerable importance. In addition, no assurance can be given
that the holders of commercial bank debt may not contest payments to the holders
of debt obligations in the event of default under commercial bank loan
agreements. With four exceptions, (Panama, Cuba, Costa Rica and Yugoslavia), no
sovereign emerging markets borrower has defaulted on an external bond issue
since World War II.
Income from securities held by the Fund could be reduced by a
withholding tax on the source or other taxes imposed by the emerging market
countries in which the Fund makes its investments. The Fund's net asset value
may also be affected by changes in the rates or methods of taxation applicable
to the Fund or to entities in which the Fund has invested. The Adviser will
consider the cost of any taxes in determining whether to acquire any particular
investments, but can provide no assurance that the taxes will not be subject to
change.
Many emerging markets have experienced substantial, and in some periods
extremely high rates of inflation for many years. Inflation and rapid
fluctuations in inflation rates have had and may continue to have adverse
effects on the economies and securities markets of certain emerging market
countries. In an attempt to control inflation, wage and price controls have been
imposed in certain countries. Of these countries, some, in recent years, have
begun to control inflation through prudent economic policies.
Emerging market governmental issuers are among the largest debtors to
commercial banks, foreign governments, international financial organizations and
other financial institutions. Certain emerging market governmental issuers have
not been able to make payments of interest on or principal of debt obligations
as those payments have come due. Obligations arising from past restructuring
agreements may affect the economic performance and political and social
stability of those issuers.
5
<PAGE>
Governments of many emerging market countries have exercised and
continue to exercise substantial influence over many aspects of the private
sector through the ownership or control of many companies, including some of the
largest in any given country. As a result, government actions in the future
could have a significant effect on economic conditions in emerging markets,
which in turn, may adversely affect companies in the private sector, general
market conditions and prices and yields of certain of the securities in the
Fund's portfolio. Expropriation, confiscatory taxation, nationalization,
political, economic or social instability or other similar developments have
occurred frequently over the history of certain emerging markets and could
adversely affect the Fund's assets should these conditions recur.
The ability of emerging market country governmental issuers to make
timely payments on their obligations is likely to be influenced strongly by the
issuer's balance of payments, including export performance, and its access to
international credits and investments. An emerging market whose exports are
concentrated in a few commodities could be vulnerable to a decline in the
international prices of one or more of those commodities. Increased
protectionism on the part of an emerging market's trading partners could also
adversely affect the country's exports and diminish its trade account surplus,
if any. To the extent that emerging markets receive payment for its exports in
currencies other than dollars or non-emerging market currencies, its ability to
make debt payments denominated in dollars or non-emerging market currencies
could be affected.
To the extent that an emerging market country cannot generate a trade
surplus, it must depend on continuing loans from foreign governments,
multilateral organizations or private commercial banks, aid payments from
foreign governments and on inflows of foreign investment. The access of emerging
markets to these forms of external funding may not be certain, and a withdrawal
of external funding could adversely affect the capacity of emerging market
country governmental issuers to make payments on their obligations. In addition,
the cost of servicing emerging market debt obligations can be affected by a
change in international interest rates since the majority of these obligations
carry interest rates that are adjusted periodically based upon international
rates.
Another factor bearing on the ability of emerging market countries to
repay debt obligations is the level of international reserves of the country.
Fluctuations in the level of these reserves affect the amount of foreign
exchange readily available for external debt payments and thus could have a
bearing on the capacity of emerging market countries to make payments on these
debt obligations.
Investing in Latin America. Investing in securities of Latin American issuers
may entail risks relating to the potential political and economic instability of
certain Latin American countries and the risks of expropriation,
nationalization, confiscation or the imposition of restrictions on foreign
investment and on repatriation of capital invested. In the event of
expropriation, nationalization or other confiscation by any country, the Fund
could lose its entire investment in any such country.
The securities markets of Latin American countries are substantially
smaller, less developed, less liquid and more volatile than the major securities
markets in the U.S. Disclosure and regulatory standards are in many respects
less stringent than U.S. standards. Furthermore, there is a lower level of
monitoring and regulation of the markets and the activities of investors in such
markets.
The limited size of many Latin American securities markets and limited
trading volume in the securities of Latin American issuers compared to volume of
trading in the securities of U.S. issuers could cause prices to be erratic for
reasons apart from factors that affect the soundness and competitiveness of the
securities issuers. For example, limited market size may cause prices to be
unduly influenced by traders who control large positions. Adverse publicity and
investors' perceptions, whether or not based on in-depth fundamental analysis,
may decrease the value and liquidity of portfolio securities.
The Fund may invest a portion of its assets in securities denominated
in currencies of Latin American countries. Accordingly, changes in the value of
these currencies against the U.S. dollar may result in corresponding changes in
the U.S. dollar value of the Fund's assets denominated in those currencies.
Some Latin American countries also may have managed currencies, which
are not free floating against the U.S. dollar. In addition, there is risk that
certain Latin American countries may restrict the free conversion of their
currencies into other currencies. Further, certain Latin American currencies may
not be internationally traded. Certain of these currencies have experienced a
steep devaluation relative to the U.S. dollar. Any devaluations in the
currencies in which the Fund's portfolio securities are denominated may have a
detrimental impact on the Fund's net asset value.
The economies of individual Latin American countries may differ
favorably or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as the rate of
growth of gross domestic product, the rate of inflation, capital reinvestment,
resource self-
6
<PAGE>
sufficiency and balance of payments position. Certain Latin American countries
have experienced high levels of inflation which can have a debilitating effect
on an economy, although some have begun to control inflation in recent years
through prudent economic policies. Furthermore, certain Latin American countries
may impose withholding taxes on dividends payable to the Fund at a higher rate
than those imposed by other foreign countries. This may reduce the Fund's
investment income available for distribution to shareholders.
Certain Latin American countries such as Argentina, Brazil and Mexico
are among the world's largest debtors to commercial banks and foreign
governments. At times, certain Latin American countries have declared moratoria
on the payment of principal and/or interest on outstanding debt.
Latin America is a region rich in natural resources such as oil,
copper, tin, silver, iron ore, forestry, fishing, livestock and agriculture. The
region has a large population (roughly 300 million) representing a large
domestic market. Economic growth was strong in the 1960s and 1970s, but slowed
dramatically (and in some instances was negative) in the 1980s as a result of
poor economic policies, higher international interest rates, and the denial of
access to new foreign capital. Although a number of Latin American countries are
currently experiencing lower rates of inflation and higher rates of real growth
in gross domestic product than they have in the past, other Latin American
countries continue to experience significant problems, including high inflation
rates and high interest rates. Capital flight has proven a persistent problem
and external debt has been forcibly restructured. Political turmoil, high
inflation, capital repatriation restrictions, and nationalization have further
exacerbated conditions.
Governments of many Latin American countries have exercised and
continue to exercise substantial influence over many aspects of the private
sector through the ownership or control of many companies, including some of the
largest in those countries. As a result, government actions in the future could
have a significant effect on economic conditions which may adversely affect
prices of certain portfolio securities. Expropriation, confiscatory taxation,
nationalization, political, economic or social instability or other similar
developments, such as military coups, have occurred in the past and could also
adversely affect the Fund's investments in this region.
Changes in political leadership, the implementation of market oriented
economic policies, such as privatization, trade reform and fiscal and monetary
reform are among the recent steps taken to renew economic growth. External debt
is being restructured and flight capital (domestic capital that has left home
country) has begun to return. Inflation control efforts have also been
implemented. Free Trade Zones are being discussed in various areas around the
region, the most notable being a free zone among Mexico, the U.S. and Canada and
another zone among four countries in the southernmost point of Latin America.
Currencies are typically weak, but most are now relatively free floating, and it
is not unusual for the currencies to undergo wide fluctuations in value over
short periods of time due to changes in the market.
Investing in the Pacific Basin. Economies of individual Pacific Basin countries
may differ favorably or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as
growth of gross national product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment,
resource self-sufficiency, interest rate levels, and balance of payments
position. Of particular importance, most of the economies in this region of the
world are heavily dependent upon exports, particularly to developed countries,
and, accordingly, have been and may continue to be adversely affected by trade
barriers, managed adjustments in relative currency values, and other
protectionist measures imposed or negotiated by the U.S. and other countries
with which they trade. These economies also have been and may continue to be
negatively impacted by economic conditions in the U.S. and other trading
partners, which can lower the demand for goods produced in the Pacific Basin.
With respect to the Peoples Republic of China and other markets in
which the Fund may participate, there is the possibility of nationalization,
expropriation or confiscatory taxation, political changes, government
regulation, social instability or diplomatic developments that could adversely
impact a Pacific Basin country or the Fund's investment in the debt of that
country.
Foreign companies, including Pacific Basin companies, are not generally
subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards,
practices and disclosure requirements comparable to those applicable to U.S.
companies. Consequently, there may be less publicly available information about
such companies than about U.S. companies. Moreover, there is generally less
government supervision and regulation in the Pacific Basin than in the U.S.
Investing in Europe. Most Eastern European nations, including Hungary, Poland,
Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, and Romania have had centrally planned,
socialist economies since shortly after World War II. A number of their
governments, including those of Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Poland are
currently implementing or considering reforms directed at political and economic
liberalization, including efforts to foster multi-party political systems,
decentralize economic planning, and move toward free market economies. At
present, no Eastern European country has a developed stock market,
7
<PAGE>
but Poland, Hungary, and the Czech Republic have small securities markets in
operation. Ethnic and civil conflict currently rage through the former
Yugoslavia. The outcome is uncertain.
Both the European Community (the "EC") and Japan, among others, have
made overtures to establish trading arrangements and assist in the economic
development of the Eastern European nations. A great deal of interest also
surrounds opportunities created by the reunification of East and West Germany.
Following reunification, the Federal Republic of Germany has remained a firm and
reliable member of the EC and numerous other international alliances and
organizations. To reduce inflation caused by the unification of East and West
Germany, Germany has adopted a tight monetary policy which has led to weakened
exports and a reduced domestic demand for goods and services. However, in the
long-term, reunification could prove to be an engine for domestic and
international growth.
The conditions that have given rise to these developments are
changeable, and there is no assurance that reforms will continue or that their
goals will be achieved.
Portugal is a genuinely emerging market which has experienced rapid
growth since the mid-1980s, except for a brief period of stagnation over
1990-91. Portugal's government remains committed to privatization of the
financial system away from one dependent upon the banking system to a more
balanced structure appropriate for the requirements of a modern economy.
Inflation continues to be about three times the EC average.
Economic reforms launched in the 1980s continue to benefit Turkey in
the 1990s. Turkey's economy has grown steadily since the early 1980s, with real
growth in per capita Gross Domestic Product (the "GDP") increasing more than 6%
annually. Agriculture remains the most important economic sector, employing
approximately 55% of the labor force, and accounting for nearly 20% of GDP and
20% of exports. Inflation and interest rates remain high, and a large budget
deficit will continue to cause difficulties in Turkey's substantial
transformation to a dynamic free market economy.
Like many other Western economies, Greece suffered severely from the
global oil price hikes of the 1970s, with annual GDP growth plunging from 8% to
2% in the 1980s, and inflation, unemployment, and budget deficits rising
sharply. The fall of the socialist government in 1989 and the inability of the
conservative opposition to obtain a clear majority have led to business
uncertainty and the continued prospects for flat economic performance. Once
Greece has sorted out its political situation, it will have to face the
challenges posed by the steadily increasing integration of the EC, including the
progressive lowering of trade and investment barriers. Tourism continues as a
major industry, providing a vital offset to a sizable commodity trade deficit.
Securities traded in certain emerging European securities markets may
be subject to risks due to the inexperience of financial intermediaries, the
lack of modern technology and the lack of a sufficient capital base to expand
business operations. Additionally, former Communist regimes of a number of
Eastern European countries had expropriated a large amount of property, the
claims of which have not been entirely settled. There can be no assurance that
the Fund's investments in Eastern Europe would not also be expropriated,
nationalized or otherwise confiscated. Finally, any change in leadership or
policies of Eastern European countries, or countries that exercise a significant
influence over those countries, may halt the expansion of or reverse the
liberalization of foreign investment policies now occurring and adversely affect
existing investment opportunities.
Investing in Africa. Africa is a continent of roughly 50 countries with a total
population of approximately 840 million people. Literacy rates (the percentage
of people who are over 15 years of age and who can read and write) are
relatively low, ranging from 20% to 60%. The primary industries include crude
oil, natural gas, manganese ore, phosphate, bauxite, copper, iron, diamond,
cotton, coffee, cocoa, timber, tobacco, sugar, tourism and cattle.
Many of the countries are fraught with political instability. However,
there has been a trend over the past five years toward democratization. Many
countries are moving from a military style, Marxist, or single party government
to a multi-party system. Still, there remain many countries that do not have a
stable political process. Other countries have been enmeshed in civil wars and
border clashes.
Economically, the Northern Rim countries (including Morocco, Egypt and
Algeria) and Nigeria, Zimbabwe and South Africa are the wealthier countries on
the continent. The market capitalization of these countries has been growing
recently as more international companies invest in Africa and as local companies
start to list on the exchanges. However, religious and ethnic strife has been a
significant source of instability.
On the other end of the economic spectrum are countries, such as
Burkinafaso, Madagascar and Malawi, that are considered to be among the poorest
or least developed in the world. These countries are generally landlocked or
have poor
8
<PAGE>
natural resources. The economies of many African countries are heavily dependent
on international oil prices. Of all the African industries, oil has been the
most lucrative, accounting for 40% to 60% of many countries' GDP. However,
general decline in oil prices has had an adverse impact on many economies.
Specialized Investment Techniques
Debt Securities. If the Adviser determines that the capital appreciation on debt
securities is likely to exceed that of common stocks, the Fund may invest in
debt securities of foreign and U.S. issuers. Portfolio debt investments will be
selected on the basis of capital appreciation potential, by evaluating, among
other things, potential yield, if any, credit quality, and the fundamental
outlooks for currency and interest rate trends in different parts of the world,
taking into account the ability to hedge a degree of currency or local bond
price risk. The Fund may purchase "investment-grade" bonds, which are those
rated Aaa, Aa, A or Baa by Moody's Investors Service ("Moody's") or AAA, AA, A
or BBB by Standard & Poor's Ratings Services ("S&P"), a division of The
McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc. or, if unrated, judged to be of equivalent quality
as determined by the Adviser. Bonds rated Baa or BBB may have speculative
elements as well as investment-grade characteristics. The Fund may also invest
up to 5% of its net assets in debt securities which are rated below
investment-grade, that is, rated below Baa by Moody's or below BBB by S&P and in
unrated securities of equivalent quality.
High Yield/High Risk Securities. Below investment-grade securities, commonly
referred to as "junk bonds" (rated Ba and lower by Moody's and BB and lower by
S&P), or unrated securities of equivalent quality, in which the Fund may invest
up to 5% of its net assets, carry a high degree of risk (including the
possibility of default or bankruptcy of the issuers of such securities),
generally involve greater volatility of price and risk of principal and income,
and may be less liquid, than securities in the higher rating categories and are
considered speculative. The lower the ratings of such debt securities, the
greater their risks render them like equity securities. See the Appendix to this
Statement of Additional Information for a more complete description of the
ratings assigned by ratings organizations and their respective characteristics.
Economic downturns may disrupt the high yield market and impair the
ability of issuers to repay principal and interest. Also, an increase in
interest rates would likely have a greater adverse impact on the value of such
obligations than on comparable higher quality debt securities. During an
economic downturn or period of rising interest rates, highly leveraged issues
may experience financial stress which could adversely affect their ability to
service their principal and interest payment obligations. Prices and yields of
high yield securities will fluctuate over time and, during periods of economic
uncertainty, volatility of high yield securities may adversely affect the Fund's
net asset value. In addition, investments in high yield zero coupon or
pay-in-kind bonds, rather than income-bearing high yield securities, may be more
speculative and may be subject to greater fluctuations in value due to changes
in interest rates.
The trading market for high yield securities may be thin to the extent
that there is no established retail secondary market or because of a decline in
the value of such securities. A thin trading market may limit the ability of the
Fund to accurately value high yield securities in the Fund's portfolio and to
dispose of those securities. Adverse publicity and investor perceptions may
decrease the values and liquidity of high yield securities. These securities may
also involve special registration responsibilities, liabilities and costs, and
liquidity and valuation difficulties.
Credit quality in the high yield securities market can change suddenly
and unexpectedly, and even recently issued credit ratings may not fully reflect
the actual risks posed by a particular high-yield security. For these reasons,
it is the policy of the Adviser not to rely exclusively on ratings issued by
established credit rating agencies, but to supplement such ratings with its own
independent and on-going review of credit quality. The achievement of the Fund's
investment objective by investment in such securities may be more dependent on
the Adviser's credit analysis than is the case for higher quality bonds. Should
the rating of a portfolio security be downgraded, the Adviser will determine
whether it is in the best interest of the Fund to retain or dispose of such
security.
Prices for below investment-grade securities may be affected by
legislative and regulatory developments. For example, new federal rules require
savings and loan institutions to gradually reduce their holdings of this type of
security. Also, Congress has from time to time considered legislation which
would restrict or eliminate the corporate tax deduction for interest payments in
these securities and regulate corporate restructurings. Such legislation may
significantly depress the prices of outstanding securities of this type. For
more information regarding tax issues related to high yield securities, see
"TAXES."
Convertible Securities. The Fund may invest in convertible securities, that is,
bonds, notes, debentures, preferred stocks and other securities which are
convertible into common stock. Investments in convertible securities can provide
an opportunity for capital appreciation and/or income through interest and
dividend payments by virtue of their conversion or exchange features.
9
<PAGE>
The convertible securities in which the Fund may invest are either
fixed income or zero coupon debt securities which may be converted or exchanged
at a stated or determinable exchange ratio into underlying shares of common
stock. The exchange ratio for any particular convertible security may be
adjusted from time to time due to stock splits, dividends, spin-offs, other
corporate distributions or scheduled changes in the exchange ratio. Convertible
debt securities and convertible preferred stocks, until converted, have general
characteristics similar to both debt and equity securities. Although to a lesser
extent than with debt securities generally, the market value of convertible
securities tends to decline as interest rates increase and, conversely, tends to
increase as interest rates decline. In addition, because of the conversion or
exchange feature, the market value of convertible securities typically changes
as the market value of the underlying common stocks changes, and, therefore,
also tends to follow movements in the general market for equity securities. A
unique feature of convertible securities is that as the market price of the
underlying common stock declines, convertible securities tend to trade
increasingly on a yield basis, and so may not experience market value declines
to the same extent as the underlying common stock. When the market price of the
underlying common stock increases, the prices of the convertible securities tend
to rise as a reflection of the value of the underlying common stock, although
typically not as much as the underlying common stock. While no securities
investments are without risk, investments in convertible securities generally
entail less risk than investments in common stock of the same issuer.
As debt securities, convertible securities are investments which
provide for a stream of income (or in the case of zero coupon securities,
accretion of income) with generally higher yields than common stocks. Of course,
like all debt securities, there can be no assurance of income or principal
payments because the issuers of the convertible securities may default on their
obligations. Convertible securities generally offer lower yields than
non-convertible securities of similar quality because of their conversion or
exchange features.
Convertible securities generally are subordinated to other similar but
non-convertible securities of the same issuer, although convertible bonds, as
corporate debt obligations, enjoy seniority in right of payment to all equity
securities, and convertible preferred stock is senior to common stock, of the
same issuer. However, because of the subordination feature, convertible bonds
and convertible preferred stock typically have lower ratings than similar
non-convertible securities.
Convertible securities may be issued as fixed income obligations that
pay current income or as zero coupon notes and bonds, including Liquid Yield
Option Notes ("LYONs"(TM)). Zero coupon securities pay no cash income and are
sold at substantial discounts from their value at maturity. When held to
maturity, their entire income, which consists of accretion of discount, comes
from the difference between the issue price and their value at maturity. Zero
coupon convertible securities offer the opportunity for capital appreciation as
increases (or decreases) in market value of such securities closely follow the
movements in the market value of the underlying common stock. Zero coupon
convertible securities generally are expected to be less volatile than the
underlying common stocks as they usually are issued with shorter maturities (15
years or less) and are issued with options and/or redemption features
exercisable by the holder of the obligation entitling the holder to redeem the
obligation and receive a defined cash payment.
Illiquid Securities. The Fund may occasionally purchase securities other than in
the open market. While such purchases may often offer attractive opportunities
for investment not otherwise available on the open market, the securities so
purchased are often "restricted securities" or "not readily marketable," i.e.,
securities which cannot be sold to the public without registration under the
Securities Act of 1933 (the "1933 Act") or the availability of an exemption from
registration (such as Rules 144 or 144A) or because they are subject to other
legal or contractual delays in or restrictions on resale.
Generally speaking, restricted securities may be sold only to qualified
institutional buyers, or in a privately negotiated transaction to a limited
number of purchasers, or in limited quantities after they have been held for a
specified period of time and other conditions are met pursuant to an exemption
from registration, or in a public offering for which a registration statement is
in effect under the 1933 Act. The Fund may be deemed to be an "underwriter" for
purposes of the 1933 Act when selling restricted securities to the public, and
in such event the Fund may be liable to purchasers of such securities if the
registration statement prepared by the issuer, or the prospectus forming a part
of it, is materially inaccurate or misleading.
Repurchase Agreements. The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with member
banks of the Federal Reserve System, with any domestic or foreign broker/dealer
which is recognized as a reporting government securities dealer, or any foreign
bank, if the repurchase agreement is fully secured by government securities of
the particular foreign jurisdiction, if the creditworthiness of the bank or
broker/dealer has been determined by the Adviser to be at least as high as that
of other obligations the Fund may purchase, or to be at least equal to that of
issuers of commercial paper rated within the two highest grades assigned by
Moody's or S&P.
10
<PAGE>
A repurchase agreement provides a means for the Fund to earn income on
assets for periods as short as overnight. It is an arrangement under which the
Fund acquires a security ("Obligation") and the seller agrees, at the time of
sale, to repurchase the Obligation at a specified time and price. Obligations
subject to a repurchase agreement are held in a segregated account and the value
of such securities kept at least equal to the repurchase price on a daily basis.
The repurchase price may be higher than the purchase price, the difference being
income to the Fund, or the purchase and repurchase prices may be the same, with
interest at a stated rate due to the Fund together with the repurchase price
upon repurchase. In either case, the income to the Fund is unrelated to the
interest rate on the Obligation itself. Obligations will be held by the
custodian or in the Federal Reserve Book Entry system.
For purposes of the 1940 Act, a repurchase agreement is deemed to be a
loan from the Fund to the seller of the Obligation subject to the repurchase
agreement and is therefore subject to that Fund's investment restriction
applicable to loans. It is not clear whether a court would consider the
Obligation purchased by the Fund subject to a repurchase agreement as being
owned by the Fund or as being collateral for a loan by the Fund to the seller.
In the event of the commencement of bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings with
respect to the seller of the Obligation before repurchase of the Obligation
under a repurchase agreement, the Fund may encounter delay and incur costs
before being able to sell the security. Delays may involve loss of interest or
decline in price of the Obligation. If the court characterizes the transaction
as a loan and the Fund has not perfected a security interest in the Obligation,
the Fund may be required to return the Obligation to the seller's estate and be
treated as an unsecured creditor of the seller. As an unsecured creditor, the
Fund would be at risk of losing some or all of the principal and income involved
in the transaction. As with any unsecured debt instrument purchased for the
Fund, the Adviser seeks to minimize the risk of loss through repurchase
agreements by analyzing the creditworthiness of the obligor, in this case the
seller of the Obligation. Apart from the risk of bankruptcy or insolvency
proceedings, there is also the risk that the seller may fail to repurchase the
Obligation, in which case the Fund may incur a loss if the proceeds to the Fund
of the sale to a third party are less than the repurchase price. To protect
against such potential loss, if the market value (including interest) of the
Obligation subject to the repurchase agreement becomes less than the repurchase
price (including interest), the Fund will direct the seller of the Obligation to
deliver additional securities so that the market value (including interest) of
all securities subject to the repurchase agreement will equal or exceed the
repurchase price. It is possible that the Fund will be unsuccessful in seeking
to impose on the seller a contractual obligation to deliver additional
securities. A repurchase agreement with foreign banks may be available with
respect to government securities of the particular foreign jurisdiction, and
such repurchase agreements involve risks similar to repurchase agreements with
U.S.
entities.
When-Issued Securities. The Fund may from time to time purchase securities on a
"when-issued" or "forward delivery" basis for payment and delivery at a later
date. The price of such securities, which may be expressed in yield terms, is
fixed at the time the commitment to purchase is made, but delivery and payment
for the when-issued or forward delivery securities takes place at a later date.
During the period between purchase and settlement, no payment is made by the
Fund to the issuer and no interest accrues to the Fund. To the extent that
assets of the Fund are held in cash pending the settlement of a purchase of
securities, the Fund would earn no income; however, it is the Fund's intention
to be fully invested to the extent practicable and subject to the policies
stated above. While when-issued or forward delivery securities may be sold prior
to the settlement date, the Fund intends to purchase such securities with the
purpose of actually acquiring them unless a sale appears desirable for
investment reasons. At the time the Fund makes the commitment to purchase a
security on a when-issued or forward delivery basis, it will record the
transaction and reflect the value of the security in determining its net asset
value. At the time of settlement, the market value of the when-issued or forward
delivery securities may be more or less than the purchase price. The Fund does
not believe that its net asset value or income will be adversely affected by its
purchase of securities on a when-issued or forward delivery basis. The Fund will
establish a segregated account with the Funds' custodian in which it will
maintain cash or liquid assets equal in value to commitments for when-issued or
forward delivery securities. Such segregated securities either will mature or,
if necessary, be sold on or before the settlement date. The Fund will not enter
into such transactions for leverage purposes.
Lending of Portfolio Securities. The Fund may seek to increase its income by
lending portfolio securities. Under present regulatory policies, including those
of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the SEC, such loans
may be made to member firms of the New York Stock Exchange (the "Exchange"), and
would be required to be secured continuously by collateral in cash or liquid
assets maintained on a current basis at an amount at least equal to the market
value and accrued interest of the securities loaned. The Fund would have the
right to call a loan and obtain the securities loaned on no more than five days'
notice. During the existence of a loan, the Fund would continue to receive the
equivalent of the interest paid by the issuer on the securities loaned and would
also receive compensation based on investment of the collateral. As with other
extensions of credit there are risks of delay in recovery or even loss of rights
in the collateral should the borrower of the securities fail financially.
However, the loans would be made only to firms deemed by the Adviser to be of
good standing, and when, in the judgment of the Adviser, the consideration which
can be earned currently from securities loans of this type justifies the
attendant risk. If the Fund determines to make securities loans, the value of
the securities loaned will not exceed 5% of the value of the Fund's total assets
at the time any loan is made.
11
<PAGE>
Zero Coupon Securities. The Fund may invest in zero coupon securities which pay
no cash income and are sold at substantial discounts from their value at
maturity. When held to maturity, their entire income, which consists of
accretion of discount, comes from the difference between the issue price and
their value at maturity. Zero coupon securities are subject to greater market
value fluctuations from changing interest rates than debt obligations of
comparable maturities which make current distributions of interest (cash). Zero
coupon securities which are convertible into common stock offer the opportunity
for capital appreciation as increases (or decreases) in market value of such
securities closely follows the movements in the market value of the underlying
common stock. Zero coupon convertible securities generally are expected to be
less volatile than the underlying common stocks, as they usually are issued with
maturities of 15 years or less and are issued with options and/or redemption
features exercisable by the holder of the obligation entitling the holder to
redeem the obligation and receive a defined cash payment.
Zero coupon securities include securities issued directly by the U.S.
Treasury, and U.S. Treasury bonds or notes and their unmatured interest coupons
and receipts for their underlying principal ("coupons") which have been
separated by their holder, typically a custodian bank or investment brokerage
firm. A holder will separate the interest coupons from the underlying principal
(the "corpus") of the U.S. Treasury security. A number of securities firms and
banks have stripped the interest coupons and receipts and then resold them in
custodial receipt programs with a number of different names, including "Treasury
Income Growth Receipts" (TIGRS(TM)) and Certificate of Accrual on Treasuries
(CATS(TM)). The underlying U.S. Treasury bonds and notes themselves are held in
book-entry form at the Federal Reserve Bank or, in the case of bearer securities
(i.e., unregistered securities which are owned ostensibly by the bearer or
holder thereof), in trust on behalf of the owners thereof. Counsel to the
underwriters of these certificates or other evidences of ownership of the U.S.
Treasury securities have stated that, for federal tax and securities purposes,
in their opinion purchasers of such certificates, such as the Fund, most likely
will be deemed the beneficial holder of the underlying U.S. Government
securities. The Fund understands that the staff of the Division of Investment
Management of the SEC no longer considers such privately stripped obligations to
be U.S. Government securities, as defined in the 1940 Act.
The U.S. Treasury has facilitated transfers of ownership of zero coupon
securities by accounting separately for the beneficial ownership of particular
interest coupon and corpus payments on Treasury securities through the Federal
Reserve book-entry record keeping system. The Federal Reserve program as
established by the Treasury Department is known as "STRIPS" or "Separate Trading
of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities." Under the STRIPS program,
the Fund will be able to have its beneficial ownership of zero coupon securities
recorded directly in the book-entry record-keeping system in lieu of having to
hold certificates or other evidences of ownership of the underlying U.S.
Treasury securities.
When U.S. Treasury obligations have been stripped of their unmatured
interest coupons by the holder, the principal or corpus is sold at a deep
discount because the buyer receives only the right to receive a future fixed
payment on the security and does not receive any rights to periodic interest
(cash) payments. Once stripped or separated, the corpus and coupons may be sold
separately. Typically, the coupons are sold separately or grouped with other
coupons with like maturity dates and sold bundled in such form. Purchasers of
stripped obligations acquire, in effect, discount obligations that are
economically identical to the zero coupon securities that the Treasury sells
itself (see "TAXES").
The U.S. Treasury has facilitated transfers of ownership of zero coupon
securities by accounting separately for the beneficial ownership of particular
interest coupon and corpus payments on Treasury securities through the Federal
Reserve book-entry record keeping system. The Federal Reserve program as
established by the Treasury Department is known as "STRIPS" or "Separate Trading
of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities." Under the STRIPS program,
the Fund will be able to have its beneficial ownership of zero coupon securities
recorded directly in the book-entry record-keeping system in lieu of having to
hold certificates or other evidences of ownership of the underlying U.S.
Treasury securities.
When U.S. Treasury obligations have been stripped of their unmatured
interest coupons by the holder, the principal or corpus is sold at a deep
discount because the buyer receives only the right to receive a future fixed
payment on the security and does not receive any rights to periodic interest
(cash) payments. Once stripped or separated, the corpus and coupons may be sold
separately. Typically, the coupons are sold separately or grouped with other
coupons with like maturity dates and sold bundled in such form. Purchasers of
stripped obligations acquire, in effect, discount obligations that are
economically identical to the zero coupon securities that the Treasury sells
itself (see "TAXES").
Real Estate Investment Trusts ("REITs"). The Fund may invest in REITs. REITs are
sometimes informally characterized as equity REITs, mortgage REITs and hybrid
REITs. Investment in REITs may subject the Fund to risks associated with the
direct ownership of real estate, such as decreases in real estate values,
overbuilding, increased competition and other risks related to local or general
economic conditions, increases in operating costs and property taxes, changes in
zoning laws, casualty or condemnation losses, possible environmental
liabilities, regulatory limitations on rent and fluctuations in rental income.
Equity REITs generally experience these risks directly through fee or leasehold
interests, whereas mortgage REITs
12
<PAGE>
generally experience these risks indirectly through mortgage interests, unless
the mortgage REIT forecloses on the underlying real estate. Changes in interest
rates may also affect the value of the Fund's investment in REITs. For instance,
during periods of declining interest rates, certain mortgage REITs may hold
mortgages that the mortgagors elect to prepay, which prepayment may diminish the
yield on securities issued by those REITs.
Certain REITs have relatively small market capitalization, which may
tend to increase the volatility of the market price of their securities.
Furthermore, REITs are dependent upon specialized management skills, have
limited diversification and are, therefore, subject to risks inherent in
operating and financing a limited number of projects. REITs are also subject to
heavy cash flow dependency, defaults by borrowers and the possibility of failing
to qualify for tax-free pass-through of income under the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986, as amended, and to maintain exemption from the registration
requirements of the Investment Company Act of 1940. By investing in REITs
indirectly through the Fund, a shareholder will bear not only his or her
proportionate share of the expenses of the Fund, but also, indirectly, similar
expenses of the REITs. In addition, REITs depend generally on their ability to
generate cash flow to make distributions to shareholders.
FHLMC Collateralized Mortgage Obligations. FHLMC CMOs are debt obligations of
FHLMC issued in multiple classes having different maturity dates which are
secured by the pledge of a pool of conventional mortgage loans purchased by
FHLMC. Unlike FHLMC PCs, payments of principal and interest on the CMOs are made
semiannually, as opposed to monthly. The amount of principal payable on each
semiannual payment date is determined in accordance with FHLMC's mandatory
sinking fund schedule, which, in turn, is equal to approximately 100% of FHA
prepayment experience applied to the mortgage collateral pool. All sinking fund
payments in the CMOs are allocated to the retirement of the individual classes
of bonds in the order of their stated maturities. Payment of principal on the
mortgage loans in the collateral pool in excess of the amount of FHLMC's minimum
sinking fund obligation for any payment date are paid to the holders of the CMOs
as additional sinking fund payments. Because of the "pass-through" nature of all
principal payments received on the collateral pool in excess of FHLMC's minimum
sinking fund requirement, the rate at which principal of the CMOs is actually
repaid is likely to be such that each class of bonds will be retired in advance
of its scheduled maturity date.
If collection of principal (including prepayments) on the mortgage
loans during any semiannual payment period is not sufficient to meet FHLMC's
minimum sinking fund obligation on the next sinking fund payment date, FHLMC
agrees to make up the deficiency from its general funds.
Criteria for the mortgage loans in the pool backing the CMOs are
identical to those of FHLMC PCs. FHLMC has the right to substitute collateral in
the event of delinquencies and/or defaults.
Other Mortgage-Backed Securities. The Adviser expects that governmental,
government-related or private entities may create mortgage loan pools and other
mortgage-related securities offering mortgage pass-through and
mortgage-collateralized investments in addition to those described above. The
mortgages underlying these securities may include alternative mortgage
instruments, that is, mortgage instruments whose principal or interest payments
may vary or whose terms to maturity may differ from customary long-term fixed
rate mortgages.
Borrowing. As a matter of fundamental policy, the Fund will not borrow money,
except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or
modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time. While
the Directors do not currently intend to borrow for investment leverage
purposes, if such a strategy were implemented in the future it would increase
the Fund's volatility and the risk of loss in a declining market. Borrowing by
the Fund will involve special risk considerations. Although the principal of the
Fund's borrowings will be fixed, the Fund's assets may change in value during
the time a borrowing is outstanding, thus increasing exposure to capital risk.
Strategic Transactions and Derivatives. The Fund may, but is not required to,
utilize various other investment strategies as described below for a variety of
purposes, such as hedging various market risks, managing the effective maturity
or duration of fixed-income securities in the Fund's portfolio, or enhancing
potential gain. These strategies may be executed through the use of derivative
contracts.
In the course of pursuing these investment strategies, the Fund may
purchase and sell exchange-listed and over-the-counter put and call options on
securities, equity and fixed-income indices and other instruments, purchase and
sell futures contracts and options thereon, enter into various transactions such
as swaps, caps, floors, collars, currency forward contracts, currency futures
contracts, currency swaps or options on currencies, or currency futures and
various other currency transactions (collectively, all the above are called
"Strategic Transactions"). In addition, strategic transactions may also include
new techniques, instruments or strategies that are permitted as regulatory
changes occur. Strategic Transactions may be used without limit (subject to
certain limitations imposed by the 1940 Act) to attempt to protect against
possible changes in the market value of securities held in or to be purchased
for the Fund's portfolio resulting from securities markets or
13
<PAGE>
currency exchange rate fluctuations, to protect the Fund's unrealized gains in
the value of its portfolio securities, to facilitate the sale of such securities
for investment purposes, to manage the effective maturity or duration of
fixed-income securities in the Fund's portfolio, or to establish a position in
the derivatives markets as a substitute for purchasing or selling particular
securities. Some Strategic Transactions may also be used to enhance potential
gain although no more than 5% of the Fund's assets will be committed to
Strategic Transactions entered into for non-hedging purposes. Any or all of
these investment techniques may be used at any time and in any combination, and
there is no particular strategy that dictates the use of one technique rather
than another, as use of any Strategic Transaction is a function of numerous
variables including market conditions. The ability of the Fund to utilize these
Strategic Transactions successfully will depend on the Adviser's ability to
predict pertinent market movements, which cannot be assured. The Fund will
comply with applicable regulatory requirements when implementing these
strategies, techniques and instruments. Strategic Transactions will not be used
to alter fundamental investment purposes and characteristics of the Fund, and
the Fund will segregate assets (or as provided by applicable regulations, enter
into certain offsetting positions) to cover its obligations under options,
futures and swaps to limit leveraging of the Fund.
Strategic Transactions, including derivative contracts, have risks
associated with them including possible default by the other party to the
transaction, illiquidity and, to the extent the Adviser's view as to certain
market movements is incorrect, the risk that the use of such Strategic
Transactions could result in losses greater than if they had not been used. Use
of put and call options may result in losses to the Fund, force the sale or
purchase of portfolio securities at inopportune times or for prices higher than
(in the case of put options) or lower than (in the case of call options) current
market values, limit the amount of appreciation the Fund can realize on its
investments or cause the Fund to hold a security it might otherwise sell. The
use of currency transactions can result in the Fund incurring losses as a result
of a number of factors including the imposition of exchange controls, suspension
of settlements, or the inability to deliver or receive a specified currency. The
use of options and futures transactions entails certain other risks. In
particular, the variable degree of correlation between price movements of
futures contracts and price movements in the related portfolio position of the
Fund creates the possibility that losses on the hedging instrument may be
greater than gains in the value of the Fund's position. In addition, futures and
options markets may not be liquid in all circumstances and certain
over-the-counter options may have no markets. As a result, in certain markets,
the Fund might not be able to close out a transaction without incurring
substantial losses, if at all. Although the use of futures and options
transactions for hedging should tend to minimize the risk of loss due to a
decline in the value of the hedged position, at the same time they tend to limit
any potential gain which might result from an increase in value of such
position. Finally, the daily variation margin requirements for futures contracts
would create a greater ongoing potential financial risk than would purchases of
options, where the exposure is limited to the cost of the initial premium.
Losses resulting from the use of Strategic Transactions would reduce net asset
value, and possibly income, and such losses can be greater than if the Strategic
Transactions had not been utilized.
General Characteristics of Options. Put options and call options typically have
similar structural characteristics and operational mechanics regardless of the
underlying instrument on which they are purchased or sold. Thus, the following
general discussion relates to each of the particular types of options discussed
in greater detail below. In addition, many Strategic Transactions involving
options require segregation of Fund assets in special accounts, as described
below under "Use of Segregated and Other Special Accounts."
A put option gives the purchaser of the option, upon payment of a
premium, the right to sell, and the writer the obligation to buy, the underlying
security, commodity, index, currency or other instrument at the exercise price.
For instance, the Fund's purchase of a put option on a security might be
designed to protect its holdings in the underlying instrument (or, in some
cases, a similar instrument) against a substantial decline in the market value
by giving the Fund the right to sell such instrument at the option exercise
price. A call option, upon payment of a premium, gives the purchaser of the
option the right to buy, and the seller the obligation to sell, the underlying
instrument at the exercise price. The Fund's purchase of a call option on a
security, financial future, index, currency or other instrument might be
intended to protect the Fund against an increase in the price of the underlying
instrument that it intends to purchase in the future by fixing the price at
which it may purchase such instrument. An American style put or call option may
be exercised at any time during the option period while a European style put or
call option may be exercised only upon expiration or during a fixed period prior
thereto. The Fund is authorized to purchase and sell exchange listed options and
over-the-counter options ("OTC options"). Exchange listed options are issued by
a regulated intermediary such as the Options Clearing Corporation ("OCC"), which
guarantees the performance of the obligations of the parties to such options.
The discussion below uses the OCC as an example, but is also applicable to other
financial intermediaries.
With certain exceptions, OCC issued and exchange listed options
generally settle by physical delivery of the underlying security or currency,
although in the future cash settlement may become available. Index options and
Eurodollar instruments are cash settled for the net amount, if any, by which the
option is "in-the-money" (i.e., where the value of the underlying instrument
exceeds, in the case of a call option, or is less than, in the case of a put
option, the exercise price of the
14
<PAGE>
option) at the time the option is exercised. Frequently, rather than taking or
making delivery of the underlying instrument through the process of exercising
the option, listed options are closed by entering into offsetting purchase or
sale transactions that do not result in ownership of the new option.
The Fund's ability to close out its position as a purchaser or seller
of an OCC or exchange listed put or call option is dependent, in part, upon the
liquidity of the option market. Among the possible reasons for the absence of a
liquid option market on an exchange are: (i) insufficient trading interest in
certain options; (ii) restrictions on transactions imposed by an exchange; (iii)
trading halts, suspensions or other restrictions imposed with respect to
particular classes or series of options or underlying securities including
reaching daily price limits; (iv) interruption of the normal operations of the
OCC or an exchange; (v) inadequacy of the facilities of an exchange or OCC to
handle current trading volume; or (vi) a decision by one or more exchanges to
discontinue the trading of options (or a particular class or series of options),
in which event the relevant market for that option on that exchange would cease
to exist, although outstanding options on that exchange would generally continue
to be exercisable in accordance with their terms.
The hours of trading for listed options may not coincide with the hours
during which the underlying financial instruments are traded. To the extent that
the option markets close before the markets for the underlying financial
instruments, significant price and rate movements can take place in the
underlying markets that cannot be reflected in the option markets.
OTC options are purchased from or sold to securities dealers, financial
institutions or other parties ("Counterparties") through direct bilateral
agreement with the Counterparty. In contrast to exchange listed options, which
generally have standardized terms and performance mechanics, all the terms of an
OTC option, including such terms as method of settlement, term, exercise price,
premium, guarantees and security, are set by negotiation of the parties. The
Fund will only sell OTC options (other than OTC currency options) that are
subject to a buy-back provision permitting the Fund to require the Counterparty
to sell the option back to the Fund at a formula price within seven days. The
Fund expects generally to enter into OTC options that have cash settlement
provisions, although it is not required to do so.
Unless the parties provide for it, there is no central clearing or
guaranty function in an OTC option. As a result, if the Counterparty fails to
make or take delivery of the security, currency or other instrument underlying
an OTC option it has entered into with the Fund or fails to make a cash
settlement payment due in accordance with the terms of that option, the Fund
will lose any premium it paid for the option as well as any anticipated benefit
of the transaction. Accordingly, the Adviser must assess the creditworthiness of
each such Counterparty or any guarantor or credit enhancement of the
Counterparty's credit to determine the likelihood that the terms of the OTC
option will be satisfied. The Fund will engage in OTC option transactions only
with U.S. government securities dealers recognized by the Federal Reserve Bank
of New York as "primary dealers" or broker/dealers, domestic or foreign banks or
other financial institutions which have received (or the guarantors of the
obligation of which have received) a short-term credit rating of A-1 from S&P or
P-1 from Moody's or an equivalent rating from any nationally recognized
statistical rating organization ("NRSRO") or, in the case of OTC currency
transactions, are determined to be of equivalent credit quality by the Adviser.
The staff of the SEC currently takes the position that OTC options purchased by
the Fund, and portfolio securities "covering" the amount of the Fund's
obligation pursuant to an OTC option sold by it (the cost of the sell-back plus
the in-the-money amount, if any) are illiquid, and are subject to the Fund's
limitation on investing no more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid
securities.
If the Fund sells a call option, the premium that it receives may serve
as a partial hedge, to the extent of the option premium, against a decrease in
the value of the underlying securities or instruments in its portfolio or will
increase the Fund's income. The sale of put options can also provide income.
The Fund may purchase and sell call options on securities including
U.S. Treasury and agency securities, mortgage-backed securities, foreign
sovereign debt, corporate debt securities, equity securities (including
convertible securities) and Eurodollar instruments that are traded on U.S. and
foreign securities exchanges and in the over-the-counter markets, and on
securities indices, currencies and futures contracts. All calls sold by the Fund
must be "covered" (i.e., the Fund must own the securities or futures contract
subject to the call) or must meet the asset segregation requirements described
below as long as the call is outstanding. Even though the Fund will receive the
option premium to help protect it against loss, a call sold by the Fund exposes
the Fund during the term of the option to possible loss of opportunity to
realize appreciation in the market price of the underlying security or
instrument and may require the Fund to hold a security or instrument which it
might otherwise have sold.
The Fund may purchase and sell put options on securities including U.S.
Treasury and agency securities, mortgage-backed securities, foreign sovereign
debt, corporate debt securities, equity securities (including convertible
securities) and Eurodollar instruments (whether or not it holds the above
securities in its portfolio), and on securities indices, currencies and
15
<PAGE>
futures contracts other than futures on individual corporate debt and individual
equity securities. The Fund will not sell put options if, as a result, more than
50% of the Fund's total assets would be required to be segregated to cover its
potential obligations under such put options other than those with respect to
futures and options thereon. In selling put options, there is a risk that the
Fund may be required to buy the underlying security at a disadvantageous price
above the market price.
General Characteristics of Futures. The Fund may enter into futures contracts or
purchase or sell put and call options on such futures as a hedge against
anticipated interest rate, currency or equity market changes, and for duration
management, risk management and return enhancement purposes. Futures are
generally bought and sold on the commodities exchanges where they are listed
with payment of initial and variation margin as described below. The sale of a
futures contract creates a firm obligation by the Fund, as seller, to deliver to
the buyer the specific type of financial instrument called for in the contract
at a specific future time for a specified price (or, with respect to index
futures and Eurodollar instruments, the net cash amount). Options on futures
contracts are similar to options on securities except that an option on a
futures contract gives the purchaser the right in return for the premium paid to
assume a position in a futures contract and obligates the seller to deliver such
position.
The Fund's use of futures and options thereon will in all cases be
consistent with applicable regulatory requirements and in particular the rules
and regulations of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and will be entered
into for bona fide hedging, risk management (including duration management) or
other portfolio and return enhancement management purposes. Typically,
maintaining a futures contract or selling an option thereon requires the Fund to
deposit with a financial intermediary as security for its obligations an amount
of cash or other specified assets (initial margin) which initially is typically
1% to 10% of the face amount of the contract (but may be higher in some
circumstances). Additional cash or assets (variation margin) may be required to
be deposited thereafter on a daily basis as the mark to market value of the
contract fluctuates. The purchase of an option on financial futures involves
payment of a premium for the option without any further obligation on the part
of the Fund. If the Fund exercises an option on a futures contract it will be
obligated to post initial margin (and potential subsequent variation margin) for
the resulting futures position just as it would for any position. Futures
contracts and options thereon are generally settled by entering into an
offsetting transaction but there can be no assurance that the position can be
offset prior to settlement at an advantageous price, nor that delivery will
occur.
The Fund will not enter into a futures contract or related option
(except for closing transactions) if, immediately thereafter, the sum of the
amount of its initial margin and premiums on open futures contracts and options
thereon would exceed 5% of the Fund's total assets (taken at current value);
however, in the case of an option that is in-the-money at the time of the
purchase, the in-the-money amount may be excluded in calculating the 5%
limitation. The segregation requirements with respect to futures contracts and
options thereon are described below.
Options on Securities Indices and Other Financial Indices. The Fund also may
purchase and sell call and put options on securities indices and other financial
indices and in so doing can achieve many of the same objectives it would achieve
through the sale or purchase of options on individual securities or other
instruments. Options on securities indices and other financial indices are
similar to options on a security or other instrument except that, rather than
settling by physical delivery of the underlying instrument, they settle by cash
settlement, i.e., an option on an index gives the holder the right to receive,
upon exercise of the option, an amount of cash if the closing level of the index
upon which the option is based exceeds, in the case of a call, or is less than,
in the case of a put, the exercise price of the option (except if, in the case
of an OTC option, physical delivery is specified). This amount of cash is equal
to the excess of the closing price of the index over the exercise price of the
option, which also may be multiplied by a formula value. The seller of the
option is obligated, in return for the premium received, to make delivery of
this amount. The gain or loss on an option on an index depends on price
movements in the instruments making up the market, market segment, industry or
other composite on which the underlying index is based, rather than price
movements in individual securities, as is the case with respect to options on
securities.
Currency Transactions. The Fund may engage in currency transactions with
Counterparties primarily in order to hedge, or manage the risk of the value of
portfolio holdings denominated in particular currencies against fluctuations in
relative value. Currency transactions include forward currency contracts,
exchange listed currency futures, exchange listed and OTC options on currencies,
and currency swaps. A forward currency contract involves a privately negotiated
obligation to purchase or sell (with delivery generally required) a specific
currency at a future date, which may be any fixed number of days from the date
of the contract agreed upon by the parties, at a price set at the time of the
contract. A currency swap is an agreement to exchange cash flows based on the
notional difference among two or more currencies and operates similarly to an
interest rate swap, which is described below. The Fund may enter into currency
transactions with Counterparties which have received (or the guarantors of the
obligations which have received) a credit rating of A-1 or P-1 by S&P or
Moody's, respectively, or that have an equivalent rating from a NRSRO or (except
for OTC currency options) are determined to be of equivalent credit quality by
the Adviser.
16
<PAGE>
The Fund's dealings in forward currency contracts and other currency
transactions such as futures, options, options on futures and swaps generally
will be limited to hedging involving either specific transactions or portfolio
positions except as described below. Transaction hedging is entering into a
currency transaction with respect to specific assets or liabilities of the Fund,
which will generally arise in connection with the purchase or sale of its
portfolio securities or the receipt of income therefrom. Position hedging is
entering into a currency transaction with respect to portfolio security
positions denominated or generally quoted in that currency.
The Fund generally will not enter into a transaction to hedge currency
exposure to an extent greater, after netting all transactions intended wholly or
partially to offset other transactions, than the aggregate market value (at the
time of entering into the transaction) of the securities held in its portfolio
that are denominated or generally quoted in or currently convertible into such
currency, other than with respect to proxy hedging or cross hedging as described
below.
The Fund may also cross-hedge currencies by entering into transactions
to purchase or sell one or more currencies that are expected to decline in value
relative to other currencies to which the Fund has or in which the Fund expects
to have portfolio exposure.
To reduce the effect of currency fluctuations on the value of existing
or anticipated holdings of portfolio securities, the Fund may also engage in
proxy hedging. Proxy hedging is often used when the currency to which the Fund's
portfolio is exposed is difficult to hedge or to hedge against the dollar. Proxy
hedging entails entering into a commitment or option to sell a currency whose
changes in value are generally considered to be correlated to a currency or
currencies in which some or all of the Fund's portfolio securities are or are
expected to be denominated, in exchange for U.S. dollars. The amount of the
commitment or option would not exceed the value of the Fund's securities
denominated in correlated currencies. For example, if the Adviser considers that
the Austrian schilling is correlated to the German deutschemark (the "D-mark"),
the Fund holds securities denominated in schillings and the Adviser believes
that the value of schillings will decline against the U.S. dollar, the Adviser
may enter into a commitment or option to sell D-marks and buy dollars. Currency
hedging involves some of the same risks and considerations as other transactions
with similar instruments. Currency transactions can result in losses to the Fund
if the currency being hedged fluctuates in value to a degree or in a direction
that is not anticipated. Further, there is the risk that the perceived
correlation between various currencies may not be present or may not be present
during the particular time that the Fund is engaging in proxy hedging. If the
Fund enters into a currency hedging transaction, the Fund will comply with the
asset segregation requirements described below.
Risks of Currency Transactions. Currency transactions are subject to risks
different from those of other portfolio transactions. Because currency control
is of great importance to the issuing governments and influences economic
planning and policy, purchases and sales of currency and related instruments can
be negatively affected by government exchange controls, blockages, and
manipulations or exchange restrictions imposed by governments. These can result
in losses to the Fund if it is unable to deliver or receive currency or funds in
settlement of obligations and could also cause hedges it has entered into to be
rendered useless, resulting in full currency exposure as well as incurring
transaction costs. Buyers and sellers of currency futures are subject to the
same risks that apply to the use of futures generally. Further, settlement of a
currency futures contract for the purchase of most currencies must occur at a
bank based in the issuing nation. Trading options on currency futures is
relatively new, and the ability to establish and close out positions on such
options is subject to the maintenance of a liquid market which may not always be
available. Currency exchange rates may fluctuate based on factors extrinsic to
that country's economy.
Combined Transactions. The Fund may enter into multiple transactions, including
multiple options transactions, multiple futures transactions, multiple currency
transactions (including forward currency contracts) and multiple interest rate
transactions and any combination of futures, options, currency and interest rate
transactions ("component" transactions), instead of a single Strategic
Transaction, as part of a single or combined strategy when, in the opinion of
the Adviser, it is in the best interests of the Fund to do so. A combined
transaction will usually contain elements of risk that are present in each of
its component transactions. Although combined transactions are normally entered
into based on the Adviser's judgment that the combined strategies will reduce
risk or otherwise more effectively achieve the desired portfolio management
goal, it is possible that the combination will instead increase such risks or
hinder achievement of the portfolio management objective.
Swaps, Caps, Floors and Collars. Among the Strategic Transactions into which the
Fund may enter are interest rate, currency, index and other swaps and the
purchase or sale of related caps, floors and collars. The Fund expects to enter
into these transactions primarily to preserve a return or spread on a particular
investment or portion of its portfolio, to protect against currency
fluctuations, as a duration management technique or to protect against any
increase in the price of securities the Fund anticipates purchasing at a later
date. The Fund will not sell interest rate caps or floors where it does not own
securities or other instruments providing the income stream the Fund may be
obligated to pay. Interest rate swaps involve the exchange by the Fund with
another party of their respective commitments to pay or receive interest, e.g.,
an exchange of
17
<PAGE>
floating rate payments for fixed rate payments with respect to a notional amount
of principal. A currency swap is an agreement to exchange cash flows on a
notional amount of two or more currencies based on the relative value
differential among them and an index swap is an agreement to swap cash flows on
a notional amount based on changes in the values of the reference indices. The
purchase of a cap entitles the purchaser to receive payments on a notional
principal amount from the party selling such cap to the extent that a specified
index exceeds a predetermined interest rate or amount. The purchase of a floor
entitles the purchaser to receive payments on a notional principal amount from
the party selling such floor to the extent that a specified index falls below a
predetermined interest rate or amount. A collar is a combination of a cap and a
floor that preserves a certain return within a predetermined range of interest
rates or values. The Fund will usually enter into swaps on a net basis, i.e.,
the two payment streams are netted out in a cash settlement on the payment date
or dates specified in the instrument, with the Fund receiving or paying, as the
case may be, only the net amount of the two payments. Inasmuch as the Fund will
segregate assets (or enter into offsetting positions) to cover its obligations
under swaps, the Adviser and the Fund believe such obligations do not constitute
senior securities under the 1940 Act and, accordingly, will not treat them as
being subject to its borrowing restrictions. The Fund will not enter into any
swap, cap, floor or collar transaction unless, at the time of entering into such
transaction, the unsecured long-term debt of the Counterparty, combined with any
credit enhancements, is rated at least A by S&P or Moody's or has an equivalent
rating from a NRSRO or is determined to be of equivalent credit quality by the
Adviser. If there is a default by the Counterparty, the Fund may have
contractual remedies pursuant to the agreements related to the transaction. The
swap market has grown substantially in recent years with a large number of banks
and investment banking firms acting both as principals and as agents utilizing
standardized swap documentation. As a result, the swap market has become
relatively liquid. Caps, floors and collars are more recent innovations for
which standardized documentation has not yet been fully developed and,
accordingly, they are less liquid than swaps.
Eurodollar Instruments. The Fund may make investments in Eurodollar instruments.
Eurodollar instruments are U.S. dollar-denominated futures contracts or options
thereon which are linked to the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR"),
although foreign currency-denominated instruments are available from time to
time. Eurodollar futures contracts enable purchasers to obtain a fixed rate for
the lending of funds and sellers to obtain a fixed rate for borrowings. The Fund
might use Eurodollar futures contracts and options thereon to hedge against
changes in LIBOR, to which many interest rate swaps and fixed income instruments
are linked.
Risks of Strategic Transactions Outside the U.S. When conducted outside the
U.S., Strategic Transactions may not be regulated as rigorously as in the U.S.,
may not involve a clearing mechanism and related guarantees, and are subject to
the risk of governmental actions affecting trading in, or the prices of, foreign
securities, currencies and other instruments. The value of such positions also
could be adversely affected by: (i) other complex foreign political, legal and
economic factors, (ii) lesser availability than in the U.S. of data on which to
make trading decisions, (iii) delays in the Fund's ability to act upon economic
events occurring in foreign markets during non-business hours in the U.S., (iv)
the imposition of different exercise and settlement terms and procedures and
margin requirements than in the U.S., and (v) lower trading volume and
liquidity.
Use of Segregated and Other Special Accounts. Many Strategic Transactions, in
addition to other requirements, require that the Fund segregate cash or liquid
assets with its custodian to the extent Fund obligations are not otherwise
"covered" through ownership of the underlying security, financial instrument or
currency. In general, either the full amount of any obligation by the Fund to
pay or deliver securities or assets must be covered at all times by the
securities, instruments or currency required to be delivered, or, subject to any
regulatory restrictions, an amount of cash or liquid assets at least equal to
the current amount of the obligation must be segregated with the custodian. The
segregated assets cannot be sold or transferred unless equivalent assets are
substituted in their place or it is no longer necessary to segregate them. For
example, a call option written by the Fund will require the Fund to hold the
securities subject to the call (or securities convertible into the needed
securities without additional consideration) or to segregate cash or liquid
assets sufficient to purchase and deliver the securities if the call is
exercised. A call option sold by the Fund on an index will require the Fund to
own portfolio securities which correlate with the index or to segregate cash or
liquid assets equal to the excess of the index value over the exercise price on
a current basis. A put option written by the Fund requires the Fund to segregate
cash or liquid assets equal to the exercise price.
Except when the Fund enters into a forward contract for the purchase or
sale of a security denominated in a particular currency, which requires no
segregation, a currency contract which obligates the Fund to buy or sell
currency will generally require the Fund to hold an amount of that currency or
liquid assets denominated in that currency equal to the Fund's obligations or to
segregate cash or liquid assets equal to the amount of the Fund's obligation.
OTC options entered into by the Fund, including those on securities,
currency, financial instruments or indices and OCC issued and exchange listed
index options, will generally provide for cash settlement. As a result, when the
Fund sells these instruments it will only segregate an amount of cash or liquid
assets equal to its accrued net obligations, as there is no
18
<PAGE>
requirement for payment or delivery of amounts in excess of the net amount.
These amounts will equal 100% of the exercise price in the case of a non
cash-settled put, the same as an OCC guaranteed listed option sold by the Fund,
or the in-the-money amount plus any sell-back formula amount in the case of a
cash-settled put or call. In addition, when the Fund sells a call option on an
index at a time when the in-the-money amount exceeds the exercise price, the
Fund will segregate, until the option expires or is closed out, cash or cash
equivalents equal in value to such excess. OCC issued and exchange listed
options sold by the Fund other than those above generally settle with physical
delivery, or with an election of either physical delivery or cash settlement and
the Fund will segregate an amount of cash or liquid assets equal to the full
value of the option. OTC options settling with physical delivery, or with an
election of either physical delivery or cash settlement will be treated the same
as other options settling with physical delivery.
In the case of a futures contract or an option thereon, the Fund must
deposit initial margin and possible daily variation margin in addition to
segregating cash or liquid assets sufficient to meet its obligation to purchase
or provide securities or currencies, or to pay the amount owed at the expiration
of an index-based futures contract. Such liquid assets may consist of cash, cash
equivalents, liquid debt or equity securities or other acceptable assets.
With respect to swaps, the Fund will accrue the net amount of the
excess, if any, of its obligations over its entitlements with respect to each
swap on a daily basis and will segregate an amount of cash or liquid assets
having a value equal to the accrued excess. Caps, floors and collars require
segregation of assets with a value equal to the Fund's net obligation, if any.
Strategic Transactions may be covered by other means when consistent
with applicable regulatory policies. The Fund may also enter into offsetting
transactions so that its combined position, coupled with any segregated assets,
equals its net outstanding obligation in related options and Strategic
Transactions. For example, the Fund could purchase a put option if the strike
price of that option is the same or higher than the strike price of a put option
sold by the Fund. Moreover, instead of segregating cash or liquid assets if the
Fund held a futures or forward contract, it could purchase a put option on the
same futures or forward contract with a strike price as high or higher than the
price of the contract held. Other Strategic Transactions may also be offset in
combinations. If the offsetting transaction terminates at the time of or after
the primary transaction no segregation is required, but if it terminates prior
to such time, cash or liquid assets equal to any remaining obligation would need
to be segregated.
Investment Company Securities. The Fund may acquire securities of other
investment companies to the extent consistent with its investment objective and
subject to the limitations of the 1940 Act. The Fund will indirectly bear its
proportionate share of any management fees and other expenses paid by such other
investment companies.
For example, the Fund may invest in a variety of investment companies which seek
to track the composition and performance of specific indexes or a specific
portion of an index. These index-based investments hold substantially all of
their assets in securities representing their specific index. Accordingly, the
main risk of investing in index-based investments is the same as investing in a
portfolio of equity securities comprising the index. The market prices of
index-based investments will fluctuate in accordance with both changes in the
market value of their underlying portfolio securities and due to supply and
demand for the instruments on the exchanges on which they are traded (which may
result in their trading at a discount or premium to their NAVs). Index-based
investments may not replicate exactly the performance of their specified index
because of transaction costs and because of the temporary unavailability of
certain component securities of the index.
Examples of index-based investments include:
SPDRs(R): SPDRs, an acronym for "Standard & Poor's Depositary Receipts," are
based on the S&P 500 Composite Stock Price Index. They are issued by the SPDR
Trust, a unit investment trust that holds shares of substantially all the
companies in the S&P 500 in substantially the same weighting and seeks to
closely track the price performance and dividend yield of the Index.
MidCap SPDRs(R): MidCap SPDRs are based on the S&P MidCap 400 Index. They are
issued by the MidCap SPDR Trust, a unit investment trust that holds a portfolio
of securities consisting of substantially all of the common stocks in the S&P
MidCap 400 Index in substantially the same weighting and seeks to closely track
the price performance and dividend yield of the Index.
Select Sector SPDRs(R): Select Sector SPDRs are based on a particular sector or
group of industries that are represented by a specified Select Sector Index
within the Standard & Poor's Composite Stock Price Index. They are issued by The
Select
19
<PAGE>
Sector SPDR Trust, an open-end management investment company with nine
portfolios that each seeks to closely track the price performance and dividend
yield of a particular Select Sector Index.
DIAMONDS(SM): DIAMONDS are based on the Dow Jones Industrial Average(SM). They
are issued by the DIAMONDS Trust, a unit investment trust that holds a portfolio
of all the component common stocks of the Dow Jones Industrial Average and seeks
to closely track the price performance and dividend yield of the Dow.
Nasdaq-100 Shares: Nasdaq-100 Shares are based on the Nasdaq 100 Index. They are
issued by the Nasdaq-100 Trust, a unit investment trust that holds a portfolio
consisting of substantially all of the securities, in substantially the same
weighting, as the component stocks of the Nasdaq-100 Index and seeks to closely
track the price performance and dividend yield of the Index.
WEBs(SM): WEBs, an acronym for "World Equity Benchmark Shares," are based on 17
country-specific Morgan Stanley Capital International Indexes. They are issued
by the WEBs Index Fund, Inc., an open-end management investment company that
seeks to generally correspond to the price and yield performance of a specific
Morgan Stanley Capital International Index.
Investment Restrictions
Unless specified to the contrary, the following fundamental policies
may not be changed without the approval of a majority of the outstanding voting
securities of the Fund which, under the 1940 Act and the rules thereunder and as
used in this Statement of Additional Information, means the lesser of (1) 67% or
more of the voting securities of the Fund present at such meeting, if the
holders of more than 50% of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund are
present or represented by proxy, or (2) more than 50% of the outstanding voting
securities of the Fund.
If a percentage restriction on investment or utilization of assets as
set forth under "Investment Restrictions" and "Other Investment Policies" above
is adhered to at the time an investment is made, a later change in percentage
resulting from changes in the value or the total cost of the Fund's assets will
not be considered a violation of the restriction.
The Fund has elected to be classified as a diversified series of an
open-end investment company. In addition, as a matter of fundamental policy, the
Fund may not:
1. borrow money, except as permitted under the Investment Company
Act of 1940, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by
regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time;
2. issue senior securities, except as permitted under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and as interpreted
or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from
time to time;
3. purchase physical commodities or contracts relating to
physical commodities;
4. concentrate its investments in a particular industry, as that
term is used in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as
amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory
authority having jurisdiction, from time to time;
5. engage in the business of underwriting securities issued by
others, except to the extent that the Fund may be deemed to be
an underwriter in connection with the disposition of portfolio
securities;
6. purchase or sell real estate, which term does not include
securities or companies which deal in real estate or interests
therein, except that the Fund reserves freedom of action to
hold and to sell real estate acquired as a result of the
Fund's ownership of securities; or
7. make loans except as permitted under the Investment Company
Act of 1940, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by
regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.
Nonfundamental policies may be changed by the Directors of the
Corporation and without shareholder approval. As a matter of nonfundamental
policy, the Fund does not currently intend to:
20
<PAGE>
1. borrow money in an amount greater than 5% of its total assets,
except (i) for temporary or emergency purposes and (ii) by
engaging in reverse repurchase agreements, dollar rolls, or
other investments or transactions described in the Fund's
registration statement which may be deemed to be borrowings;
2. enter into either of reverse repurchase agreements or dollar
rolls in an amount greater than 5% of its total assets;
3. purchase securities on margin or make short sales, except (i)
short sales against the box, (ii) in connection with arbitrage
transactions, (iii) for margin deposits in connection with
futures contracts, options or other permitted investments,
(iv) that transactions in futures contracts and options shall
not be deemed to constitute selling securities short, and (v)
that the Fund may obtain such short-term credits as may be
necessary for the clearance of securities transactions;
4. purchase options, unless the aggregate premiums paid on all
such options held by the Fund at any time do not exceed 20% of
its total assets; or sell put options, if as a result, the
aggregate value of the obligations underlying such put options
would exceed 50% of its total assets;
5. enter into futures contracts or purchase options thereon
unless immediately after the purchase, the value of the
aggregate initial margin with respect to such futures
contracts entered into on behalf of the Fund and the premiums
paid for such options on futures contracts does not exceed 5%
of the fair market value of the Fund's total assets; provided
that in the case of an option that is in-the-money at the time
of purchase, the in-the-money amount may be excluded in
computing the 5% limit;
6. purchase warrants if as a result, such securities, taken at
the lower of cost or market value, would represent more than
5% of the value of the Fund's total assets (for this purpose,
warrants acquired in units or attached to securities will be
deemed to have no value); and
7. lend portfolio securities in an amount greater than 5% of its
total assets.
If a percentage restriction on investment or utilization of assets as
set forth under "Investment Restrictions" above is adhered to at the time an
investment is made, a later change in percentage resulting from changes in the
value or the total cost of the Fund's assets will not be considered a violation
of the restriction.
PURCHASES
Scudder Shares of Global Discovery Fund require a $2,500 minimum
initial investment and a minimum subsequent investment of $100. The minimum
investment requirements may be waived or lowered for investments effected
through banks and other institutions that have entered into special arrangements
with the Fund and for investments effected on a group basis by certain other
entities and their employees, such as pursuant to a payroll deduction plan and
for investments made in an Individual Retirement Account offered by the Fund.
Investment minimums may also be waived for Directors and officers of the Fund.
The Fund, Scudder Investor Services, Inc., Kemper Distributors, Inc. and Scudder
Financial Intermediary Services Group each reserves the right to reject any
purchase order. All funds will be invested in full and fractional shares.
Additional Information About Opening An Account
Clients having a regular investment counsel account with the Adviser or
its affiliates and members of their immediate families, officers and employees
of the Adviser or of any affiliated organization and their immediate families,
members of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. ("NASD") and
banks may, if they prefer, subscribe initially for at least $2,500 of Fund
shares through Scudder Investor Services, Inc. (the "Distributor") by letter,
fax, or telephone.
Shareholders of other Scudder funds who have submitted an account
application and have a certified Tax Identification Number, clients having a
regular investment counsel account with the Adviser or its affiliates and
members of their immediate families, officers and employees of the Adviser or of
any affiliated organization and their immediate families, members of the NASD,
and banks may open an account by wire. These investors must call 1-800-225-5163
to get an account number. During the call, the investor will be asked to
indicate the Fund name, amount to be wired ($2,500 minimum), name of bank or
trust company from which the wire will be sent, the exact registration of the
new account, the taxpayer identification or Social Security number, address and
telephone number. The investor must then call the bank to
21
<PAGE>
arrange a wire transfer to The Scudder Funds, State Street Bank and Trust
Company, Boston, MA 02110, ABA Number 011000028, DDA Account Number: 9903-5552.
The investor must give the Scudder fund name, account name and the new account
number. Finally, the investor must send the completed and signed application to
the Fund promptly.
The minimum initial purchase amount is less than $2,500 under certain
special plan accounts.
Minimum Balances
Shareholders should maintain a share balance worth at least $2,500
($1,000 for fiduciary accounts such as IRAs, and custodial accounts such as
Uniform Gifts to Minors Act, and Uniform Transfers to Minors Act accounts),
which amount may be changed by the Board of Directors. A shareholder may open an
account with at least $1,000 ($500 for fiduciary/custodial accounts), if an
automatic investment plan (AIP) of $100/month ($50/month for fiduciary/custodial
accounts) is established. Scudder group retirement plans and certain other
accounts have similar or lower minimum share balance requirements.
The Fund reserves the right, following 60 days' written notice to
applicable shareholders, to:
o assess an annual $10 per fund charge (with the fee to be paid
to the Fund) for any non-fiduciary/non-custodial account
without an automatic investment plan (AIP) in place and a
balance of less than $2,500; and
o redeem all shares in Fund accounts below $1,000 where a
reduction in value has occurred due to a redemption, exchange
or transfer out of the account. The Fund will mail the
proceeds of the redeemed account to the shareholder at the
address of record.
Reductions in value that result solely from market activity will not
trigger an annual fee or involuntary redemption. Shareholders with a combined
household account balance in any of the Scudder Funds of $100,000 or more, as
well as group retirement and certain other accounts will not be subject to a fee
or automatic redemption.
Fiduciary (e.g., IRA or Roth IRA) and custodial accounts (e.g., UGMA or
UTMA) with balances below $100 are subject to automatic redemption following 60
days' written notice to applicable shareholders.
Additional Information About Making Subsequent Investments
Subsequent purchase orders for $10,000 or more and for an amount not
greater than four times the value of the shareholder's account may be placed by
telephone, fax, etc. by established shareholders (except by Scudder Individual
Retirement Account (IRA), Scudder Horizon Plan, Scudder Profit Sharing and Money
Purchase Pension Plans, Scudder 401(k) and Scudder 403(b) Plan holders), members
of the NASD, and banks. Contact the Distributor at 1-800-SCUDDER for additional
information. A confirmation of the purchase will be mailed out promptly
following receipt of a request to buy. Federal regulations require that payment
be received within three business days. If payment is not received within that
time, the order is subject to cancellation. In the event of such cancellation or
cancellation at the purchaser's request, the purchaser will be responsible for
any loss incurred by the Fund or the principal underwriter by reason of such
cancellation. If the purchaser is a shareholder, the Corporation shall have the
authority, as agent of the shareholder, to redeem shares in the account in order
to reimburse the Fund or the principal underwriter for the loss incurred. Net
losses on such transactions which are not recovered from the purchaser will be
absorbed by the principal underwriter. Any net profit on the liquidation of
unpaid shares will accrue to the Fund.
Additional Information About Making Subsequent Investments by QuickBuy
Shareholders, whose predesignated bank account of record is a member of
the Automated Clearing House Network (ACH) and who have elected to participate
in the QuickBuy program, may purchase shares of the Fund by telephone. Through
this service shareholders may purchase up to $250,000. To purchase shares by
QuickBuy, shareholders should call before the close of regular trading on the
New York Stock Exchange, Inc. (the "Exchange"), normally 4 p.m. eastern time.
Proceeds in the amount of your purchase will be transferred from your bank
checking account two or three business days following your call. For requests
received by the close of regular trading on the Exchange, shares will be
purchased at the net asset value per share calculated at the close of trading on
the day of your call. QuickBuy requests received after the close of regular
trading on the Exchange will begin their processing and be purchased at the net
asset value calculated the following business day. If you purchase shares by
QuickBuy and redeem them within seven days of the purchase, the Fund may hold
the redemption proceeds for a period of up to seven days. If you purchase shares
and there are insufficient funds in your bank account the purchase will be
canceled and you may be subject to any losses or fees incurred in the
transaction.
22
<PAGE>
QuickBuy transactions are not available for most retirement plan accounts.
However, QuickBuy transactions are available for Scudder IRA accounts.
In order to request purchases by QuickBuy, shareholders must have
completed and returned to the Transfer Agent the application, including the
designation of a bank account from which the purchase payment will be debited.
New investors wishing to establish QuickBuy may so indicate on the application.
Existing shareholders who wish to add QuickBuy to their account may do so by
completing a QuickBuy Enrollment Form. After sending in an enrollment form,
shareholders should allow 15 days for this service to be available.
The Fund employs procedures, including recording telephone calls,
testing a caller's identity, and sending written confirmation of telephone
transactions, designed to give reasonable assurance that instructions
communicated by telephone are genuine, and to discourage fraud. To the extent
that a Fund does not follow such procedures, it may be liable for losses due to
unauthorized or fraudulent telephone instructions. The Fund will not be liable
for acting upon instructions communicated by telephone that it reasonably
believes to be genuine.
Checks
A certified check is not necessary, but checks are only accepted
subject to collection at full face value in U.S. funds and must be drawn on, or
payable through, a U.S. bank.
If shares of the Fund are purchased by a check which proves to be
uncollectible, the Corporation reserves the right to cancel the purchase
immediately and the purchaser may be responsible for any loss incurred by the
Trust or the principal underwriter by reason of such cancellation. If the
purchaser is a shareholder, the Corporation will have the authority, as agent of
the shareholder, to redeem shares in the account in order to reimburse the Fund
or the principal underwriter for the loss incurred. Investors whose orders have
been canceled may be prohibited from, or restricted in, placing future orders in
any of the Scudder funds.
Wire Transfer of Federal Funds
To obtain the net asset value determined as of the close of regular
trading on the Exchange on a selected day, your bank must forward federal funds
by wire transfer and provide the required account information so as to be
available to the Fund prior to the close of regular trading on the Exchange
(normally 4 p.m. eastern time).
The bank sending an investor's federal funds by bank wire may charge
for the service. Presently, the Distributor pays a fee for receipt by State
Street Bank and Trust Company (the "Custodian") of "wired funds," but the right
to charge investors for this service is reserved.
Boston banks are closed on certain holidays although the Exchange may
be open. These holidays include Columbus Day (the 2nd Monday in October) and
Veterans Day (November 11). Investors are not able to purchase shares by wiring
federal funds on such holidays because the Custodian is not open to receive such
federal funds on behalf of the Fund.
Share Price
Purchases will be filled without sales charge at the net asset value
next computed after the receipt of a purchase request in good order. Net asset
value normally will be computed as of the close of regular trading on each day
during which the Exchange is open for trading. Orders received after the close
of regular trading on the Exchange will receive the next business day's net
asset value. If the order has been placed by a member of the NASD, other than
the Distributor, it is the responsibility of that member broker, rather than the
Fund, to forward the purchase order to Scudder Service Corporation (the
"Transfer Agent") by the close of regular trading on the Exchange.
Share Certificates
Due to the desire of the Corporation's management to afford ease of
redemption, certificates will not be issued to indicate ownership in the Fund.
Share certificates now in a shareholder's possession may be sent to the Transfer
Agent for cancellation and credit to such shareholder's account. Shareholders
who prefer may hold the certificates in their possession until they wish to
exchange or redeem such shares.
23
<PAGE>
Other Information
The Fund has authorized certain members of the NASD other than the
Distributor to accept purchase and redemption orders for its shares. Those
brokers may also designate other parties to accept purchase and redemption
orders on the Fund's behalf. Orders for purchase or redemption will be deemed to
have been received by the Fund when such brokers or their authorized designees
accept the orders. Subject to the terms of the contract between the Fund and the
broker, ordinarily orders will be priced at the Fund's net asset value next
computed after acceptance by such brokers or their authorized designees.
Further, if purchases or redemptions of the Fund's shares are arranged and
settlement is made at an investor's election through any other authorized NASD
member, that member may, at its discretion, charge a fee for that service. The
Board of Directors and the Distributor, also the Fund's principal underwriter,
each has the right to limit the amount of purchases by, and to refuse to sell
to, any person. The Directors and the Distributor may suspend or terminate the
offering of Fund shares at any time for any reason.
The Board of Directors and the Distributor each has the right to limit,
for any reason, the amount of purchases by, and to refuse to, sell to any
person, and each may suspend or terminate the offering of Fund shares at any
time for any reasons.
The Tax Identification Number section of the application must be
completed when opening an account. Applications and purchase orders without a
correct certified tax identification number and certain other certified
information (e.g. from exempt organizations, certification of exempt status)
will be returned to the investor. The Fund reserves the right, following 30
days' notice, to redeem all shares in accounts without a correct certified
Social Security or tax identification number. A shareholder may avoid
involuntary redemption by providing the Fund with a tax identification number
during the 30-day notice period.
The Corporation may issue shares at net asset value in connection with
any merger or consolidation with, or acquisition of the assets of, any
investment company or personal holding company, subject to the requirements of
the 1940 Act.
EXCHANGES AND REDEMPTIONS
Exchanges
Exchanges are comprised of a redemption from one Scudder fund and
purchase into another Scudder fund. The purchase side of the exchange may be
either an additional investment into an existing account or may involve opening
a new account in another fund. When an exchange involves a new account, the new
account will be established with the same registration, tax identification
number, address, telephone redemption option, "Scudder Automated Information
Line" (SAIL) transaction authorization and dividend option as the existing
account. Other features will not carry over automatically to the new account.
Exchanges into a new fund account must be for a minimum of $2,500. When an
exchange represents an additional investment into an existing account, the
account receiving the exchange proceeds must have identical registration, tax
identification number, address, and account options/features as the account of
origin. Exchanges into an existing account must be for $100 or more. If the
account receiving the exchange proceeds is to be different in any respect, the
exchange request must be in writing and must contain an original signature
guarantee.
Exchange orders received before the close of regular trading on the
Exchange on any business day ordinarily will be executed at the respective net
asset values determined on that day. Exchange orders received after the close of
regular trading on the Exchange will be executed on the following business day.
Investors may also request, at no extra charge, to have exchanges
automatically executed on a predetermined schedule from one Scudder fund to an
existing account in another Scudder fund, at current net asset value, through
Scudder's Automatic Exchange Program. Exchanges must be for a minimum of $50.
Shareholders may add this free feature over the telephone or in writing.
Automatic exchanges will continue until the shareholder requests by telephone or
in writing to have the feature removed, or until the originating account is
depleted. The Corporation and the Transfer Agent each reserves the right to
suspend or terminate the privilege of the Automatic Exchange Program at any
time.
There is no charge to the shareholder for any exchange described above
(except for exchanges from funds which impose a redemption fee on shares held
less than a year). An exchange into another Scudder fund is a redemption of
shares, and therefore may result in tax consequences (gain or loss) to the
shareholder and the proceeds of such exchange may be subject to backup
withholding. (See "TAXES.")
24
<PAGE>
Investors currently receive the exchange privilege, including exchange
by telephone, automatically without having to elect it. The Fund employs
procedures, including recording telephone calls, testing a caller's identity,
and sending written confirmation of telephone transactions, designed to give
reasonable assurance that instructions communicated by telephone are genuine,
and to discourage fraud. To the extent that the Fund does not follow such
procedures, it may be liable for losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent
telephone instructions. The Fund will not be liable for acting upon instructions
communicated by telephone that it reasonably believes to be genuine. The Fund
and the Transfer Agent each reserves the right to suspend or terminate the
privilege of exchanging by telephone or fax at any time.
The Scudder funds into which investors may make an exchange are listed
under "THE SCUDDER FAMILY OF FUNDS" herein. Before making an exchange,
shareholders should obtain from the Distributor a prospectus of the Scudder fund
into which the exchange is being contemplated. The exchange privilege may not be
available for certain Scudder funds or classes thereof. For more information,
please call 1-800-225-5163.
Scudder retirement plans may have different exchange requirements.
Please refer to appropriate plan literature.
Redemption by Telephone
Shareholders currently receive the right, automatically without having
to elect it, to redeem by telephone up to $100,000 and have proceeds mailed to
their address of record. Shareholders may also request to have the proceeds
mailed or wired to their predesignated bank account. In order to request wire
redemptions by telephone, shareholders must have completed and returned to the
Transfer Agent the application, including the designation of a bank account to
which the redemption proceeds are to be sent.
(a) NEW INVESTORS wishing to establish telephone redemption to a
predesignated bank account must complete the appropriate
section on the application.
(b) EXISTING SHAREHOLDERS (except those who are Scudder IRA,
Scudder Pension and Profit-Sharing, Scudder 401(k) and Scudder
403(b) Planholders) who wish to establish telephone redemption
to a predesignated bank account or who want to change the bank
account previously designated to receive redemption payments
should either return a Telephone Redemption Option Form
(available upon request) or send a letter identifying the
account and specifying the exact information to be changed.
The letter must be signed exactly as the shareholder's name(s)
appears on the account. An original signature and an original
signature guarantee are required for each person in whose name
the account is registered.
Telephone redemption is not available with respect to shares
represented by share certificates or shares held in certain retirement accounts.
If a request for redemption to a shareholder's bank account is made by
telephone or fax, payment will be by Federal Reserve bank wire to the bank
account designated on the application, unless a request is made that the
redemption check be mailed to the designated bank account. There will be a $5
charge for all wire redemptions.
Note: Investors designating a savings bank to receive their
telephone redemption proceeds are advised that if the savings
bank is not a participant in the Federal Reserve System,
redemption proceeds must be wired through a commercial bank
which is a correspondent of the savings bank. As this may
delay receipt by the shareholder's account, it is suggested
that investors wishing to use a savings bank discuss wire
procedures with their bank and submit any special wire
transfer information with the telephone redemption
authorization. If appropriate wire information is not
supplied, redemption proceeds will be mailed to the designated
bank.
The Corporation employs procedures, including recording telephone
calls, testing a caller's identity, and sending written confirmation of
telephone transactions, designed to give reasonable assurance that instructions
communicated by telephone are genuine, and to discourage fraud. To the extent
that the Corporation does not follow such procedures, it may be liable for
losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent telephone instructions. The Corporation
will not be liable for acting upon instructions communicated by telephone that
it reasonably believes to be genuine.
25
<PAGE>
Redemption requests by telephone (technically a repurchase by agreement
between the Fund and the shareholder) of shares purchased by check will not be
accepted until the purchase check has cleared which may take up to seven
business days.
Redemption by QuickSell
Shareholders, whose predesignated bank account of record is a member of
the Automated Clearing House Network (ACH) and who have elected to participate
in the QuickSell program may sell shares of the Fund by telephone. Redemptions
must be for at least $250. Proceeds in the amount of your redemption will be
transferred to your bank checking account two or three business days following
your call. For requests received by the close of regular trading on the
Exchange, normally 4:00 p.m. eastern time, shares will be redeemed at the net
asset value per share calculated at the close of trading on the day of your
call. QuickSell requests received after the close of regular trading on the
Exchange will begin their processing and be redeemed at the net asset value
calculated the following business day. QuickSell transactions are not available
for Scudder IRA accounts and most other retirement plan accounts.
In order to request redemptions by QuickSell, shareholders must have
completed and returned to the Transfer Agent the application, including the
designation of a bank account to which redemption proceeds will be credited. New
investors wishing to establish QuickSell may so indicate on the application.
Existing shareholders who wish to add QuickSell to their account may do so by
completing a QuickSell Enrollment Form. After sending in an enrollment form,
shareholders should allow 15 days for this service to be available.
The Fund employs procedures, including recording telephone calls,
testing a caller's identity, and sending written confirmation of telephone
transactions, designed to give reasonable assurance that instructions
communicated by telephone are genuine, and to discourage fraud. To the extent
that the Fund does not follow such procedures, it may be liable for losses due
to unauthorized or fraudulent telephone instructions. The Fund will not be
liable for acting upon instructions communicated by telephone that it reasonably
believes to be genuine.
Redemption by Mail or Fax
In order to ensure proper authorization before redeeming shares, the
Transfer Agent may request additional documents such as, but not restricted to,
stock powers, trust instruments, certificates of death, appointments as
executor/executrix, certificates of corporate authority and waivers of tax
(required in some states when settling estates).
It is suggested that shareholders holding shares registered in other
than individual names contact the Transfer Agent prior to redemptions to ensure
that all necessary documents accompany the request. When shares are held in the
name of a corporation, trust, fiduciary, agent, attorney or partnership, the
Transfer Agent requires, in addition to the stock power, certified evidence of
authority to sign. These procedures are for the protection of shareholders and
should be followed to ensure prompt payment. Redemption requests must not be
conditional as to date or price of the redemption. Proceeds of a redemption will
be sent within five business days after receipt by the Transfer Agent of a
request for redemption that complies with the above requirements. Delays in
payment of more than seven days for shares tendered for repurchase or redemption
may result, but only until the purchase check has cleared.
The requirements for IRA redemptions are different from those for
regular accounts. For more information please call 1-800-SCUDDER.
Redemption-in-Kind
The Corporation reserves the right, if conditions exist which make cash
payments undesirable, to honor any request for redemption or repurchase order by
making payment in whole or in part in readily marketable securities chosen by
the Corporation and valued as they are for purposes of computing the Fund's net
asset value (a redemption-in-kind). If payment is made in securities, a
shareholder may incur transaction expenses in converting these securities into
cash. The Corporation has elected, however, to be governed by Rule 18f-1 under
the 1940 Act as a result of which the Fund is obligated to redeem shares, with
respect to any one shareholder during any 90-day period, solely in cash up to
the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the net asset value of the relevant Fund at the
beginning of the period.
26
<PAGE>
Other Information
Clients, officers or employees of the Adviser or of an affiliated
organization, and members of such clients', officers' or employees' immediate
families, banks and members of the NASD may direct repurchase requests to the
Fund through Scudder Investor Services, Inc. at Two International Place, Boston,
Massachusetts 02110-4103 by letter, fax, TWX, or telephone. A two-part
confirmation will be mailed out promptly after receipt of the repurchase
request. A written request in good order with a proper original signature
guarantee, as described in the Fund's prospectus under "Transaction information
- -- Signature guarantees," should be sent with a copy of the invoice to Scudder
Funds, c/o Scudder Confirmed Processing, Two International Place, Boston,
Massachusetts 02110-4103. Failure to deliver shares or required documents (see
above) by the settlement date may result in cancellation of the trade and the
shareholder will be responsible for any loss incurred by the Fund or the
principal underwriter by reason of such cancellation. Net losses on such
transactions which are not recovered from the shareholder will be absorbed by
the principal underwriter. Any net gains so resulting will accrue to the Fund.
For this group, repurchases will be carried out at the net asset value next
computed after such repurchase requests have been received. The arrangements
described in this paragraph for repurchasing shares are discretionary and may be
discontinued at any time.
If a shareholder redeems all shares in the account after the record
date of a dividend, the shareholder will receive, in addition to the net asset
value thereof, all declared but unpaid dividends thereon. The value of shares
redeemed or repurchased may be more or less than the shareholder's cost
depending on the net asset value at the time of redemption or repurchase. The
Corporation does not impose a redemption or repurchase charge although wire
charges may be applicable for redemption proceeds wired to an investor's bank
account. Redemption of shares, including an exchange into another Scudder fund,
may result in tax consequences (gain or loss) to the shareholder and the
proceeds of such redemptions may be subject to backup withholding. (See
"TAXES.")
Shareholders who wish to redeem shares from Special Plan Accounts
should contact the employer, trustees or custodian of the Plan for the
requirements.
The determination of net asset value may be suspended at times and a
shareholder's right to redeem shares and to receive payment may be suspended at
times during which (a) the Exchange is closed, other than customary weekend and
holiday closings, (b) trading on the Exchange is restricted for any reason, (c)
an emergency exists as a result of which disposal by the Fund of securities
owned by it is not reasonably practicable or it is not reasonably practicable
for the Fund fairly to determine the value of its net assets, or (d) a
governmental body having jurisdiction over the Fund may by order of the SEC
permit such a suspension for the protection of the Corporation's shareholders;
provided that applicable rules and regulations of the SEC (or any succeeding
governmental authority) shall govern as to whether the conditions prescribed in
(b), (c) or (d) exist.
Shareholders should maintain a share balance worth at least $2,500
($1,000 for IRAs, Uniform Gift to Minor Act, and Uniform Trust to Minor Act
accounts), which amount may be changed by the Board of Directors. Scudder
retirement plans have similar or lower minimum balance requirements. A
shareholder may open an account with at least $1,000 ($500 for an UGMA, UTMA,
IRA and other retirement accounts), if an automatic investment plan (AIP) of
$100/month ($50/month for an UGMA, UTMA, IRA and other retirement accounts) is
established.
Shareholders who maintain a non-fiduciary account balance of less than
$2,500 in the Fund, without establishing an AIP, will be assessed an annual
$10.00 per fund charge with the fee to be reinvested in the Fund. The $10.00
charge will not apply to shareholders with a combined household account balance
in any of the Scudder Funds of $100,000 or more. The Fund reserves the right,
following 60 days' written notice to shareholders, to redeem all shares in
accounts below $250, including accounts of new investors, where a reduction in
value has occurred due to a redemption or exchange out of the account. The Fund
will mail the proceeds of the redeemed account to the shareholder at the address
of record. Reductions in value that result solely from market activity will not
trigger an involuntary redemption. UGMA, UTMA, IRA and other retirement accounts
will not be assessed the $10.00 charge or be subject to automatic liquidation.
FEATURES AND SERVICES OFFERED BY THE FUND
The No-Load Concept
Investors are encouraged to be aware of the full ramifications of
mutual fund fee structures, and of how Scudder distinguishes funds in its
Scudder Family of Funds from the vast majority of mutual funds available today.
The primary distinction is between load and no-load funds.
27
<PAGE>
Load funds generally are defined as mutual funds that charge a fee for
the sale and distribution of fund shares. There are three types of loads:
front-end loads, back-end loads, and asset-based 12b-1 fees. 12b-1 fees are
distribution-related fees charged against fund assets and are distinct from
service fees, which are charged for personal services and/or maintenance of
shareholder accounts. Asset-based sales charges and service fees are typically
paid pursuant to distribution plans adopted under 12b-1 under the 1940 Act.
A front-end load is a sales charge, which can be as high as 8.50% of
the amount invested. A back-end load is a contingent deferred sales charge,
which can be as high as 8.50% of either the amount invested or redeemed. The
maximum front-end or back-end load varies, and depends upon whether or not the
Fund also charges a 12b-1 fee and/or a service fee or offers investors various
sales-related services such as dividend reinvestment. The maximum charge for a
12b-1 fee is 0.75% of the Fund's average annual net assets, and the maximum
charge for a service fee is 0.25% of the Fund's average annual net assets.
A no-load fund does not charge a front-end or back-end load, but can
charge a small 12b-1 fee and/or service fee against fund assets. Under the NASD
Conduct Rules, a mutual fund can call itself a "no-load" fund only if the 12b-1
fee and/or service fee does not exceed 0.25% of the Fund's average annual net
assets.
Because Scudder funds and classes in the Scudder Family of Funds do not
pay any asset-based sales charges or service fees, Scudder developed and
trademarked the phrase no-load to distinguish funds and classes in the Scudder
Family of Funds from other no-load mutual funds. Scudder pioneered the no-load
concept when it created the nation's first no-load fund in 1928, and later
developed the nation's first family of no-load mutual funds. The Scudder Family
of Funds consists of those Funds or classes of Funds advised by Scudder which
are offered without commissions to purchase or redeem shares or to exchange from
one Fund to another.
Investors are encouraged to review the fee table of the Fund's
prospectus for more specific information about the rates at which management
fees and other expenses are assessed.
Internet access
World Wide Web Site -- The address of the Scudder Funds site is
http://funds.scudder.com. The site offers guidance on global investing and
developing strategies to help meet financial goals and provides access to the
Scudder investor relations department via e-mail. The site also enables users to
access or view fund prospectuses and profiles with links between summary
information in Profiles and details in the Prospectus. Users can fill out new
account forms on-line, order free software, and request literature on funds.
Account Access -- Scudder is among the first mutual fund families to allow
shareholders to manage their fund accounts through the World Wide Web. Scudder
Fund shareholders can view a snapshot of current holdings, review account
activity and move assets between Scudder Fund accounts.
Scudder's personal portfolio capabilities -- known as SEAS (Scudder
Electronic Account Services) -- are accessible only by current Scudder Fund
shareholders who have set up a Personal Page on Scudder's Web site. Using a
secure Web browser, shareholders sign on to their account with their Social
Security number and their SAIL password. As an additional security measure,
users can change their current password or disable access to their portfolio
through the World Wide Web.
An Account Activity option reveals a financial history of transactions
for an account, with trade dates, type and amount of transaction, share price
and number of shares traded. For users who wish to trade shares between Scudder
Funds, the Fund Exchange option provides a step-by-step procedure to exchange
shares among existing fund accounts or to new Scudder Fund accounts.
Dividend and Capital Gain Distribution Options
Investors have freedom to choose whether to receive cash or to reinvest
any dividends from net investment income or distributions from realized capital
gains in additional shares of the same Fund. A change of instructions for the
method of payment must be received by the Transfer Agent at least five days
prior to a dividend record date. Shareholders may change their dividend option
either by calling 1-800-225-5163 or by sending written instructions to the
Transfer Agent. Please include your account number with your written request.
See "How to contact Scudder" in the Fund's Prospectus for the address.
28
<PAGE>
Reinvestment is usually made at the closing net asset value determined
on the business day following the record date. Investors may leave standing
instructions with the Transfer Agent designating their option for either
reinvestment or cash distribution of any income dividends or capital gains
distributions. If no election is made, dividends and distributions will be
invested in additional shares of the relevant Fund.
Investors may also have dividends and distributions automatically
deposited in their predesignated bank account through Scudder's
DistributionsDirect Program. Shareholders who elect to participate in the
DistributionsDirect Program, and whose predesignated checking account of record
is with a member bank of the Automated Clearing House Network (ACH) can have
income and capital gain distributions automatically deposited to their personal
bank account usually within three business days after the Fund pays its
distribution. A DistributionsDirect request form can be obtained by calling
1-800-225-5163. Confirmation statements will be mailed to shareholders as
notification that distributions have been deposited.
Investors choosing to participate in Scudder's Automatic Withdrawal
Plan must reinvest any dividends or capital gains. For most retirement plan
accounts, the reinvestment of dividends and capital gains is also required.
Diversification
Your investment in the Fund represents an interest in a large,
diversified portfolio of carefully selected securities. Diversification may
protect you against the possible risks of concentrating in fewer securities or
in a specific market sector.
Reports to Shareholders
The Corporation issues to the Fund's shareholders semiannual and annual
financial statements audited by independent accountants, including a list of
investments held and statements of assets and liabilities, operations, changes
in net assets and financial highlights.
Transaction Summaries
Annual summaries of all transactions in the Fund account are available
to shareholders. The summaries may be obtained by calling 1-800-225-5163.
THE SCUDDER FAMILY OF FUNDS
The Scudder Family of Funds is America's first family of mutual funds
and the nation's oldest family of no-load mutual funds; a list of Scudder's
funds follows.
MONEY MARKET
Scudder U.S. Treasury Money Fund
Scudder Cash Investment Trust
Scudder Money Market Series^+
Scudder Government Money Market Series^+
TAX FREE MONEY MARKET
Scudder Tax Free Money Fund
Scudder Tax Free Money Market Series^+
Scudder California Tax Free Money Fund*
Scudder New York Tax Free Money Fund*
- ---------------------------------
^+ The institutional class of shares is not part of the Scudder Family of
Funds.
29
<PAGE>
TAX FREE
Scudder Limited Term Tax Free Fund
Scudder Medium Term Tax Free Fund
Scudder Managed Municipal Bonds
Scudder High Yield Tax Free Fund
Scudder California Tax Free Fund*
Scudder Massachusetts Limited Term Tax Free Fund*
Scudder Massachusetts Tax Free Fund*
Scudder New York Tax Free Fund*
Scudder Ohio Tax Free Fund*
U.S. INCOME
Scudder Short Term Bond Fund
Scudder GNMA Fund
Scudder Income Fund
Scudder Corporate Bond Fund
Scudder High Yield Bond Fund
GLOBAL INCOME
Scudder Global Bond Fund
Scudder International Bond Fund
Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund
ASSET ALLOCATION
Scudder Pathway Series: Conservative Portfolio
Scudder Pathway Series: Balanced Portfolio
Scudder Pathway Series: Growth Portfolio
U.S. GROWTH AND INCOME
Scudder Balanced Fund
Scudder Dividend & Growth Fund
Scudder Growth and Income Fund
- -------------------------------
* These funds are not available for sale in all states. For information,
contact Scudder Investor Services, Inc.
30
<PAGE>
Scudder Select 500 Fund
Scudder 500 Index Fund
Scudder Real Estate Investment Fund
U.S. GROWTH
Value
Scudder Large Company Value Fund
Scudder Value Fund**
Scudder Small Company Value Fund
Scudder Micro Cap Fund
Growth
Scudder Classic Growth Fund**
Scudder Large Company Growth Fund
Scudder Select 1000 Growth Fund
Scudder Development Fund
Scudder 21st Century Growth Fund
GLOBAL EQUITY
Worldwide
Scudder Global Fund
Scudder International Value Fund
Scudder International Growth and Income Fund
Scudder International Fund***
Scudder International Growth Fund
Scudder Global Discovery Fund**
Scudder Emerging Markets Growth Fund
Scudder Gold Fund
Regional
Scudder Greater Europe Growth Fund
Scudder Pacific Opportunities Fund
- ---------------------------------
** Only the Scudder Shares are part of the Scudder Family of Funds.
*** Only the International Shares are part of the Scudder Family of Funds.
31
<PAGE>
Scudder Latin America Fund
The Japan Fund, Inc.
INDUSTRY SECTOR FUNDS
Choice Series
Scudder Financial Services Fund
Scudder Health Care Fund
Scudder Technology Fund
SCUDDER PREFERRED SERIES
Scudder Tax Managed Growth Fund
Scudder Tax Managed Small Company Fund
The net asset values of most Scudder funds can be found daily in the
"Mutual Funds" section of The Wall Street Journal under "Scudder Funds," and in
other leading newspapers throughout the country. Investors will notice the net
asset value and offering price are the same, reflecting the fact that no sales
commission or "load" is charged on the sale of shares of the Scudder funds. The
latest seven-day yields for the money-market funds can be found every Monday and
Thursday in the "Money-Market Funds" section of The Wall Street Journal. This
information also may be obtained by calling the Scudder Automated Information
Line (SAIL) at 1-800-343-2890.
Certain Scudder funds or classes thereof may not be available for
purchase or exchange. For more information, please call 1-800-225-5163.
SPECIAL PLAN ACCOUNTS
Detailed information on any Scudder investment plan, including the
applicable charges, minimum investment requirements and disclosures made
pursuant to Internal Revenue Service (the "IRS") requirements, may be obtained
by contacting Scudder Investor Services, Inc., Two International Place, Boston,
Massachusetts 02110-4103 or by calling toll free, 1-800-225-2470. The
discussions of the plans below describe only certain aspects of the federal
income tax treatment of the plan. The state tax treatment may be different and
may vary from state to state. It is advisable for an investor considering the
funding of the investment plans described below to consult with an attorney or
other investment or tax adviser with respect to the suitability requirements and
tax aspects thereof.
Shares of the Fund may also be a permitted investment under profit
sharing and pension plans and IRAs other than those offered by the Fund's
distributor depending on the provisions of the relevant plan or IRA.
None of the plans assures a profit or guarantees protection against
depreciation, especially in declining markets.
Scudder Retirement Plans: Profit-Sharing and Money Purchase
Pension Plans for Corporations and Self-Employed Individuals
Shares of the Fund may be purchased as the investment medium under a
plan in the form of a Scudder Profit-Sharing Plan (including a version of the
Plan which includes a cash-or-deferred feature) or a Scudder Money Purchase
Pension Plan (jointly referred to as the Scudder Retirement Plans) adopted by a
corporation, a self-employed individual or a group of self-employed individuals
(including sole proprietorships and partnerships), or other qualifying
organization. Each of these forms was approved by the IRS as a prototype. The
IRS's approval of an employer's plan under Section 401(a) of the Internal
Revenue Code will be greatly facilitated if it is in such approved form. Under
certain circumstances, the IRS will assume that a plan, adopted in this form,
after special notice to any employees, meets the requirements of Section 401(a)
of the Internal Revenue Code as to form.
32
<PAGE>
Scudder 401(k): Cash or Deferred Profit-Sharing Plan
for Corporations and Self-Employed Individuals
Shares of the Fund may be purchased as the investment medium under a
plan in the form of a Scudder 401(k) Plan adopted by a corporation, a
self-employed individual or a group of self-employed individuals (including sole
proprietors and partnerships), or other qualifying organization. This plan has
been approved as a prototype by the IRS.
Scudder IRA: Individual Retirement Account
Shares of the Fund may be purchased as the underlying investment for an
Individual Retirement Account which meets the requirements of Section 408(a) of
the Internal Revenue Code.
A single individual who is not an active participant in an
employer-maintained retirement plan, a simplified employee pension plan, or a
tax-deferred annuity program (a "qualified plan"), and a married individual who
is not an active participant in a qualified plan and whose spouse is also not an
active participant in a qualified plan, are eligible to make tax deductible
contributions of up to $2,000 to an IRA prior to the year such individual
attains age 70 1/2. In addition, certain individuals who are active participants
in qualified plans (or who have spouses who are active participants) are also
eligible to make tax-deductible contributions to an IRA; the annual amount, if
any, of the contribution which such an individual will be eligible to deduct
will be determined by the amount of his, her, or their adjusted gross income for
the year. Whenever the adjusted gross income limitation prohibits an individual
from contributing what would otherwise be the maximum tax-deductible
contribution he or she could make, the individual will be eligible to contribute
the difference to an IRA in the form of nondeductible contributions.
An eligible individual may contribute as much as $2,000 of qualified
income (earned income or, under certain circumstances, alimony) to an IRA each
year (up to $2,000 per individual for married couples even if only one spouse
has earned income). All income and capital gains derived from IRA investments
are reinvested and compound tax-deferred until distributed. Such tax-deferred
compounding can lead to substantial retirement savings.
Scudder Roth IRA: Individual Retirement Account
Shares of the Fund may be purchased as the underlying investment for a
Roth Individual Retirement Account which meets the requirements of Section 408A
of the Internal Revenue Code.
A single individual earning below $95,000 can contribute up to $2,000
per year to a Roth IRA. The maximum contribution amount diminishes and gradually
falls to zero for single filers with adjusted gross incomes ranging from $95,000
to $110,000. Married couples earning less than $150,000 combined, and filing
jointly, can contribute a full $4,000 per year ($2,000 per IRA). The maximum
contribution amount for married couples filing jointly phases out from $150,000
to $160,000.
An eligible individual can contribute money to a traditional IRA and a
Roth IRA as long as the total contribution to all IRAs does not exceed $2,000.
No tax deduction is allowed under Section 219 of the Internal Revenue Code for
contributions to a Roth IRA. Contributions to a Roth IRA may be made even after
the individual for whom the account is maintained has attained age 70 1/2.
All income and capital gains derived from Roth IRA investments are
reinvested and compounded tax-free. Such tax-free compounding can lead to
substantial retirement savings. No distributions are required to be taken prior
to the death of the original account holder. If a Roth IRA has been established
for a minimum of five years, distributions can be taken tax-free after reaching
age 59 1/2, for a first-time home purchase ($10,000 maximum, one-time use) or
upon death or disability. All other distributions of earnings from a Roth IRA
are taxable and subject to a 10% tax penalty unless an exception applies.
Exceptions to the 10% penalty include: disability, certain medical expenses, the
purchase of health insurance for an unemployed individual and qualified higher
education expenses.
An individual with an income of $100,000 or less (who is not married
filing separately) can roll his or her existing IRA into a Roth IRA. However,
the individual must pay taxes on the taxable amount in his or her traditional
IRA. Individuals who complete the rollover in 1998 will be allowed to spread the
tax payments over a four-year period. After 1998, all taxes on such a rollover
will have to be paid in the tax year in which the rollover is made.
33
<PAGE>
Scudder 403(b) Plan
Shares of the Fund may also be purchased as the underlying investment
for tax sheltered annuity plans under the provisions of Section 403(b)(7) of the
Internal Revenue Code. In general, employees of tax-exempt organizations
described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (such as hospitals,
churches, religious, scientific, or literary organizations and educational
institutions) or a public school system are eligible to participate in a 403(b)
plan.
Automatic Withdrawal Plan
Non-retirement plan shareholders may establish an Automatic Withdrawal
Plan to receive monthly, quarterly or periodic redemptions from his or her
account for any designated amount of $50 or more. Shareholders may designate
which day they want the automatic withdrawal to be processed. The check amounts
may be based on the redemption of a fixed dollar amount, fixed share amount,
percent of account value or declining balance. The Plan provides for income
dividends and capital gains distributions, if any, to be reinvested in
additional shares. Shares are then liquidated as necessary to provide for
withdrawal payments. Since the withdrawals are in amounts selected by the
investor and have no relationship to yield or income, payments received cannot
be considered as yield or income on the investment and the resulting
liquidations may deplete or possibly extinguish the initial investment and any
reinvested dividends and capital gains distributions. Requests for increases in
withdrawal amounts or to change the payee must be submitted in writing, signed
exactly as the account is registered, and contain signature guarantee(s) as
described under "Transaction information -- Redeeming shares -- Signature
guarantees" in the Fund's prospectus. Any such requests must be received by the
Fund's transfer agent ten days prior to the date of the first automatic
withdrawal. An Automatic Withdrawal Plan may be terminated at any time by the
shareholder, the Corporation or its agent on written notice, and will be
terminated when all shares of the Fund under the Plan have been liquidated or
upon receipt by the Corporation of notice of death of the shareholder.
An Automatic Withdrawal Plan request form can be obtained by calling
1-800-225-5163.
Group or Salary Deduction Plan
An investor may join a Group or Salary Deduction Plan where
satisfactory arrangements have been made with Scudder Investor Services, Inc.
for forwarding regular investments through a single source. The minimum annual
investment is $240 per investor which may be made in monthly, quarterly,
semiannual or annual payments. The minimum monthly deposit per investor is $20.
Except for trustees or custodian fees for certain retirement plans, at present
there is no separate charge for maintaining group or salary deduction plans;
however, the Corporation and its agents reserve the right to establish a
maintenance charge in the future depending on the services required by the
investor.
The Corporation reserves the right, after notice has been given to the
shareholder, to redeem and close a shareholder's account in the event that the
shareholder ceases participating in the group plan prior to investment of $1,000
per individual or in the event of a redemption which occurs prior to the
accumulation of that amount or which reduces the account value to less than
$1,000 and the account value is not increased to $1,000 within a reasonable time
after notification. An investor in a plan who has not purchased shares for six
months shall be presumed to have stopped making payments under the plan.
Automatic Investment Plan
Shareholders may arrange to make periodic investments through automatic
deductions from checking accounts by completing the appropriate form and
providing the necessary documentation to establish this service. The minimum
investment is $50.
The Automatic Investment Plan involves an investment strategy called
dollar cost averaging. Dollar cost averaging is a method of investing whereby a
specific dollar amount is invested at regular intervals. By investing the same
dollar amount each period, when shares are priced low the investor will purchase
more shares than when the share price is higher. Over a period of time this
investment approach may allow the investor to reduce the average price of the
shares purchased. However, this investment approach does not assure a profit or
protect against loss. This type of regular investment program may be suitable
for various investment goals such as, but not limited to, college planning or
saving for a home.
34
<PAGE>
Uniform Transfers/Gifts to Minors Act
Grandparents, parents or other donors may set up custodian accounts for
minors. The minimum initial investment is $1,000 unless the donor agrees to
continue to make regular share purchases for the account through Scudder's
Automatic Investment Plan (AIP). In this case, the minimum initial investment is
$500.
The Corporation reserves the right, after notice has been given to the
shareholder and custodian, to redeem and close a shareholder's account in the
event that regular investments to the account cease before the $1,000 minimum is
reached.
DIVIDENDS AND CAPITAL GAINS DISTRIBUTIONS
The Fund intends to follow the practice of distributing substantially
all of its investment company taxable income which includes any excess of net
realized short-term capital gains over net realized long-term capital losses.
The Fund may follow the practice of distributing the entire excess of net
realized long-term capital gains over net realized short-term capital losses.
However, the Fund may retain all or part of such gain for reinvestment, after
paying the related federal taxes for which shareholders may then be able to
claim a credit against their federal tax liability. If the Fund does not
distribute the amount of capital gain and/or ordinary income required to be
distributed by an excise tax provision of the Code, the Fund may be subject to
that excise tax. In certain circumstances, the Fund may determine that it is in
the interest of shareholders to distribute less than the required amount. (See
"TAXES.")
The Fund intends to distribute investment company taxable income and
any net realized capital gains in December each year. Any dividends or capital
gains distributions declared in October, November or December with a record date
in such a month and paid during the following January will be treated by
shareholders for federal income tax purposes as if received on December 31 of
the calendar year declared. Additional distributions may be made if necessary.
All distributions will be made in shares of the Fund and confirmations
will be mailed to each shareholder unless a shareholder has elected to receive
cash, in which case a check will be sent. Distributions are taxable, whether
made in shares or cash. (See "TAXES.")
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
From time to time, quotations of the Shares' performance may be
included in advertisements, sales literature or reports to shareholders or
prospective investors. Effective April 16, 1998, Global Discovery Fund was
divided into four classes of shares. Shares of Global Discovery Fund outstanding
on that date were redesignated Scudder Shares of the Fund. The performance
information will be calculated separately for each class of Global Discovery
Fund's shares. These performance figures are calculated in the following manner:
Average Annual Total Return
Average Annual Total Return is the average annual compound rate of
return for, where applicable, the periods of one year, five years, ten years (or
such shorter periods as may be applicable dating from the commencement of the
Fund's operations), all ended on the last day of a recent calendar quarter.
Average annual total return quotations reflect changes in the price of the
Fund's shares and assume that all dividends and capital gains distributions
during the respective periods were reinvested in Fund shares. Average annual
total return is calculated by finding the average annual compound rates of
return of a hypothetical investment, over such periods, according to the
following formula (average annual total return is then expressed as a
percentage):
T = (ERV/P)^1/n - 1
Where:
P = a hypothetical initial investment
of $1,000
T = Average Annual Total Return
N = number of years
ERV = ending redeemable value: ERV is
the value, at the end of the
applicable period, of a
hypothetical $1,000 investment
made at the beginning of the
applicable period.
35
<PAGE>
Average Annual Total Return for periods ended October 31, 1999
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
One Year Five Years Life of the Fund
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Global Discovery Fund* 41.95% 15.91% 14.18%(1)
</TABLE>
(1) For the period beginning September 10, 1991.
* On April 16, 1998, Global Discovery Fund adopted its present name.
Prior to that date, the Fund was known as Scudder Global Discovery Fund
since it changed its name from Scudder Global Small Company Fund on
March 6, 1996. Performance information provided is for the Fund's
Scudder Shares class.
Cumulative Total Return
Cumulative Total Return is the cumulative rate of return on a
hypothetical initial investment of $1,000 for a specified period. Cumulative
Total Return quotations reflect changes in the price of the Fund's shares and
assume that all dividends and capital gains distributions during the period were
reinvested in Fund shares. Cumulative Total Return is calculated by finding the
cumulative rates of a return of a hypothetical investment over such periods,
according to the following formula (Cumulative Total Return is then expressed as
a percentage):
C = (ERV/P) - 1
Where:
C = Cumulative Total Return
P = a hypothetical initial investment
of $1,000
ERV = ending redeemable value: ERV is
the value, at the end of the
applicable period, of a
hypothetical $1,000 investment
made at the beginning of the
applicable period.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Cumulative Total Return for periods ended October 31, 1999
One Year Five Years Life of the Fund
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Global Discovery Fund* 41.95% 109.18% 194.26%(1)
</TABLE>
(1) For the period beginning September 10, 1991.
* On April 16, 1998, Global Discovery Fund adopted its present name.
Prior to that date, the Fund was known as Scudder Global Discovery Fund
since it changed its name from Scudder Global Small Company Fund on
March 6, 1996. Performance information provided is for the Fund's
Scudder Shares class.
Total Return
Total Return is the rate of return on an investment for a specified
period of time calculated in the same manner as Cumulative Total Return.
Comparison of Fund PerformanceComparison of Fund Performance
In connection with communicating its performance to current or
prospective shareholders, the Fund also may compare these figures to the
performance of unmanaged indices which may assume reinvestment of dividends or
interest but generally do not reflect deductions for administrative and
management costs.
From time to time, in advertising and marketing literature, a Fund's
performance may be compared to the performance of broad groups of mutual funds
with similar investment goals, as tracked by independent organizations.
From time to time, in marketing and other Fund literature, Directors
and officers of the Fund, the Fund's portfolio manager, or members of the
portfolio management team may be depicted and quoted to give prospective and
current shareholders a better sense of the outlook and approach of those who
manage the Fund. In addition, the amount of assets that the Adviser has under
management in various geographical areas may be quoted in advertising and
marketing materials.
36
<PAGE>
The Fund may be advertised as an investment choice in Scudder's college
planning program.
Marketing and other Fund literature may include a description of the
potential risks and rewards associated with an investment in the Fund. The
description may include a "risk/return spectrum" which compares the Fund to
other Scudder funds or broad categories of funds, such as money market, bond or
equity funds, in terms of potential risks and returns. Money market funds are
designed to maintain a constant $1.00 share price and have a fluctuating yield.
Share price, yield and total return of a bond fund will fluctuate. The share
price and return of an equity fund also will fluctuate. The description may also
compare the Fund to bank products, such as certificates of deposit. Unlike
mutual funds, certificates of deposit are insured up to $100,000 by the U.S.
government and offer a fixed rate of return.
Because bank products guarantee the principal value of an investment
and money market funds seek stability of principal, these investments are
considered to be less risky than investments in either bond or equity funds,
which may involve the loss of principal. However, all long-term investments,
including investments in bank products, may be subject to inflation risk, which
is the risk of erosion of the value of an investment as prices increase over a
long time period. The risks/returns associated with an investment in bond or
equity funds depend upon many factors. For bond funds these factors include, but
are not limited to, a fund's overall investment objective, the average portfolio
maturity, credit quality of the securities held, and interest rate movements.
For equity funds, factors include a fund's overall investment objective, the
types of equity securities held and the financial position of the issuers of the
securities. The risks/returns associated with an investment in international
bond or equity funds also will depend upon currency exchange rate fluctuation.
A risk/return spectrum generally will position the various investment
categories in the following order: bank products, money market funds, bond funds
and equity funds. Shorter-term bond funds generally are considered less risky
and offer the potential for less return than longer-term bond funds. The same is
true of domestic bond funds relative to international bond funds, and bond funds
that purchase higher quality securities relative to bond funds that purchase
lower quality securities. Growth and income equity funds are generally
considered to be less risky and offer the potential for less return than growth
funds. In addition, international equity funds usually are considered more risky
than domestic equity funds but generally offer the potential for greater return.
Evaluation of Fund performance or other relevant statistical
information made by independent sources may also be used in advertisements
concerning the Fund, including reprints of, or selections from, editorials or
articles about the Fund.
ORGANIZATION OF THE FUND
The Fund is a separate series of Global/International Fund, Inc., a
Maryland corporation organized on May 15, 1986. The name of the Corporation was
changed from Scudder Global Fund, Inc. on May 28, 1998. The name of the Fund was
changed, effective April 16, 1998, from Scudder Global Discovery Fund to Global
Discovery Fund. The Corporation's shares are currently divided into five series:
Global Discovery Fund, Scudder Global Fund, Scudder Emerging Markets Income
Fund, Scudder Global Bond Fund and Scudder International Bond Fund. The Fund's
shares are currently divided into four classes: the Scudder Shares, and Kemper
Global Discovery Fund Class A, B and C shares. Although shareholders of
different classes of a series have an interest in the same portfolio of assets,
shareholders of different classes may bear different expenses in connection with
different methods of distribution.
The authorized capital stock of the Corporation consists of 800 million
shares with $.01 par value, of which 100 million shares are allocated to Global
Discovery Fund. Each share of each series of the Corporation has equal voting
rights as to each other share of that series as to voting for Directors,
redemption, dividends and liquidation. Shareholders have one vote for each share
held. All shares issued and outstanding are fully paid and non-assessable,
transferable, and redeemable at net asset value at the option of the
shareholder. Shares have no pre-emptive or conversion rights.
Shares of the Corporation entitle their holders to one vote per share;
however, separate votes are taken by each series on matters affecting an
individual series. For example, a change in investment policy for a series would
be voted upon only by shareholders of the series involved. Additionally,
approval of the investment advisory agreement is a matter to be determined
separately by each series. Approval by the shareholders of one series is
effective as to that series whether or not enough votes are received from the
shareholders of the other series to approve such agreement as to the other
series.
The shares of the Corporation have non-cumulative voting rights, which
means that the holders of more than 50% of the shares voting for the election of
Directors can elect 100% of the Directors if they choose to do so, and, in such
event, the holders of the remaining less than 50% of the shares voting for the
election of Directors will not be able to elect any person or persons to the
Board of Directors.
37
<PAGE>
Each share of each class of the Fund shall be entitled to one vote (or
fraction thereof in respect of a fractional share) on matters that such shares
(or class of shares) shall be entitled to vote. Shareholders of the Fund shall
vote together on any matter, except to the extent otherwise required by the 1940
Act, or when the Board of Directors has determined that the matter affects only
the interest of shareholders of one or more classes of the Fund, in which case
only the shareholders of such class or classes of the Fund shall be entitled to
vote thereon. Any matter shall be deemed to have been effectively acted upon
with respect to the Fund if acted upon as provided in Rule 18f-2 under the 1940
Act, or any successor rule, and in the Fund's Articles of Incorporation. As used
in the Prospectus and in this Statement of Additional Information, the term
"majority", when referring to the approvals to be obtained from shareholders in
connection with general matters affecting the Fund and all additional portfolios
(e.g., election of directors), means the vote of the lesser of (i) 67% of the
Fund's shares represented at a meeting if the holders of more than 50% of the
outstanding shares are present in person or by proxy, or (ii) more than 50% of
the Fund's outstanding shares. The term "majority", when referring to the
approvals to be obtained from shareholders in connection with matters affecting
a single Fund or any other single portfolio (e.g., annual approval of investment
management contracts), means the vote of the lesser of (i) 67% of the shares of
the portfolio represented at a meeting if the holders of more than 50% of the
outstanding shares of the portfolio are present in person or by proxy, or (ii)
more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the portfolio. Shareholders are
entitled to one vote for each full share held and fractional votes for
fractional shares held.
The Directors, in their discretion, may authorize the division of
shares of a series into different classes permitting shares of different classes
to be distributed by different methods. Although shareholders of different
classes of a series would have an interest in the same portfolio of assets,
shareholders of any subsequently created classes may bear different expenses in
connection with different methods of distribution of their classes.
Maryland corporate law provides that a Director of the Corporation
shall not be liable for actions taken in good faith, in a manner he or she
reasonably believes to be in the best interests of the Corporation and with the
care that an ordinarily prudent person in a like position would use under
similar circumstances. In so acting, a Director shall be fully protected in
relying in good faith upon the records of the Corporation and upon reports made
to the Corporation by persons selected in good faith by the Directors as
qualified to make such reports.
The Articles of Amendment and Restatement provide that the Directors of
the Corporation, to the fullest extent permitted by Maryland General Corporation
Law and the 1940 Act shall not be liable to the Corporation or its shareholders
for damages. As a result, Directors of the Corporation may be immune from
liability in certain instances in which they could otherwise be held liable. The
Articles and the By-Laws provide that the Corporation will indemnify its
Directors, officers, employees or agents against liabilities and expenses
incurred in connection with litigation in which they may be involved because of
their offices with the Corporation to the fullest extent permitted by applicable
law. Nothing in the Articles or the By-Laws protects or indemnifies a Director,
officer, employee or agent against any liability to which he or she would
otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross
negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of that
person's office.
No series of the Corporation shall be liable for the obligations of any
other series.
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Investment Adviser
Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. (the "Adviser"), an investment counsel
firm, acts as investment adviser to the Fund. This organization, the predecessor
of which is Scudder, Stevens & Clark, Inc., is one of the most experienced
investment counsel firms in the U. S. It was established as a partnership in
1919 and pioneered the practice of providing investment counsel to individual
clients on a fee basis. In 1928 it introduced the first no-load mutual fund to
the public. In 1953 the Adviser introduced Scudder International Fund, Inc., the
first mutual fund available in the U.S. investing internationally in securities
of issuers in several foreign countries. The predecessor firm reorganized from a
partnership to a corporation on June 28, 1985. On December 31, 1997, Zurich
Insurance Company ("Zurich") acquired a majority interest in the Adviser, and
Zurich Kemper Investments, Inc., a Zurich subsidiary, became part of the
Adviser. The Adviser's name changed to Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. On
September 7, 1998, the businesses of Zurich (including Zurich's 70% interest in
Scudder Kemper) and the financial services businesses of B.A.T Industries p.l.c.
("B.A.T") were combined to form a new global insurance and financial services
company known as Zurich Financial Services Group. By way of a dual holding
company structure, former Zurich shareholders initially owned approximately 57%
of Zurich Financial Services Group, with the balance initially owned by former
B.A.T shareholders.
38
<PAGE>
Founded in 1872, Zurich is a multinational, public corporation
organized under the laws of Switzerland. Its home office is located at
Mythenquai 2, 8002 Zurich, Switzerland. Historically, Zurich's earnings have
resulted from its operations as an insurer as well as from its ownership of its
subsidiaries and affiliated companies (the "Zurich Insurance Group"). Zurich and
the Zurich Insurance Group provide an extensive range of insurance products and
services and have branch offices and subsidiaries in more than 40 countries
throughout the world.
The principal source of the Adviser's income is professional fees
received from providing continuous investment advice. Today, it provides
investment counsel for many individuals and institutions, including insurance
companies, colleges, industrial corporations, and financial and banking
organizations as well as providing investment advice to over 280 open and
closed-end mutual funds.
The Adviser maintains a large research department, which conducts
continuous studies of the factors that affect the position of various
industries, companies and individual securities. The Adviser receives published
reports and statistical compilations from issuers and other sources, as well as
analyses from brokers and dealers who may execute portfolio transactions for the
Adviser's clients. However, the Adviser regards this information and material as
an adjunct to its own research activities. The Adviser's international
investment management team travels the world, researching hundreds of companies.
In selecting the securities in which the Fund may invest, the conclusions and
investment decisions of the Adviser with respect to the Funds are based
primarily on the analyses of its own research department.
Certain investments may be appropriate for the fund and also for other
clients advised by the Adviser. Investment decisions for a fund and other
clients are made with a view to achieving their respective investment objectives
and after consideration of such factors as their current holdings, availability
of cash for investment and the size of their investments generally. Frequently,
a particular security may be bought or sold for only one client or in different
amounts and at different times for more than one but less than all clients.
Likewise, a particular security may be bought for one or more clients when one
or more other clients are selling the security. In addition, purchases or sales
of the same security may be made for two or more clients on the same day. In
such event, such transactions will be allocated among the clients in a manner
believed by the Adviser to be equitable to each. In some cases, this procedure
could have an adverse effect on the price or amount of the securities purchased
or sold by a fund. Purchase and sale orders for a fund may be combined with
those of other clients of the Adviser in the interest of achieving the most
favorable net results to that fund.
In certain cases, the investments for the fund are managed by the same
individuals who manage one or more other mutual funds advised by the Adviser,
that have similar names, objectives and investment styles. You should be aware
that the Fund is likely to differ from these other mutual funds in size, cash
flow pattern and tax matters. Accordingly, the holdings and performance of the
Fund can be expected to vary from those of these other mutual funds.
The present investment management agreements were approved by the
Directors on August 7, 1999 on and became effective on September 7, 1998. The
Agreement will continue in effect until September 30, 2000 only if their
continuance is approved annually by the vote of a majority of those Directors
who are not parties to such Agreement or interested persons of the Adviser or
the Corporation, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on
such approval, and either by a vote of the Corporation's Directors or of a
majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund. The Agreement may be
terminated at any time without payment of penalty by either party on sixty days'
written notice and automatically terminate in the event of its assignment.
The term Scudder Investments is the designation given to the services
provided by Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. and its affiliates to the Scudder
Family of Funds.
Under the agreement, the Adviser regularly provides the Fund with
continuing investment management for the Fund's portfolio consistent with the
Fund's investment objective, policies and restrictions and determines what
securities shall be purchased, held or sold, and what portion of the Fund's
assets shall be held uninvested, subject always to the provisions of the
Corporation's Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws, of the 1940 Act and the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986 and to the Fund's investment objectives, policies
and restrictions, as each may be amended, and subject, further, to such policies
and instructions as the Board of Directors may from time to time establish.
Under the agreement, the Adviser renders significant administrative
services (not otherwise provided by third parties) necessary for the Fund's
operations as an open-end investment company including, but not limited to,
preparing reports and notices to the Directors and shareholders; supervising,
negotiating contractual arrangements with, and monitoring various third-party
service providers to the Fund (such as the Fund's transfer agent, pricing
agents, custodian, accountants and others); preparing and making filings with
the SEC and other regulatory agencies; assisting in the preparation and filing
of the Fund's federal, state and local tax returns; preparing and filing the
Fund's federal excise tax returns; assisting with
39
<PAGE>
investor and public relations matters; monitoring the valuation of securities
and the calculation of net asset value; monitoring the registration of shares of
the Fund under applicable federal and state securities laws; maintaining the
Fund's books and records to the extent not otherwise maintained by a third
party; assisting in establishing accounting policies of the Fund; assisting in
the resolution of accounting and legal issues; establishing and monitoring the
Fund's operating budget; processing the payment of the Fund's bills; assisting
the Fund in, and otherwise arranging for, the payment of distributions and
dividends and otherwise assisting the Fund in the conduct of its business,
subject to the direction and control of the Directors.
The Adviser pays the compensation and expenses except those for
attending Board and committee meetings outside New York, New York and Boston,
Massachusetts of all Directors, officers and executive employees of the
Corporation affiliated with the Adviser and makes available, without expense to
the Funds, the services of such directors, officers and employees of the Adviser
as may duly be elected officers, subject to their individual consent to serve
and to any limitations imposed by law, and provides the Funds' office space and
facilities.
For these services, Global Discovery Fund pays the Adviser an annual
fee equal to 1.10% of the average daily net assets of such Fund. For the fiscal
year ended October 31, 1997, the management fee amounted to $3,960,949. For the
fiscal year ended October 31, 1998, the management fee amounted to $3,960,160.
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1999, the management fee amounted to
$4,401,513, of which $879,688 was unpaid at October 31, 1999.
The fee is payable monthly, provided the Fund will make such interim
payments as may be requested by the Adviser not to exceed 75% of the amount of
the fee then accrued on the books of the Fund and unpaid. Under the agreement,
the Fund is responsible for all of its other expenses including: organization
expenses; fees and expenses incurred in connection with membership in investment
company organizations; broker's commissions; legal, auditing and accounting
expenses; the calculation of net asset value; taxes and governmental fees; the
fees and expenses of the Transfer Agent; the cost of preparing share
certificates and any other expenses, including expenses of issuance, redemption
or repurchase of shares; the expenses of and the fees for registering or
qualifying securities for sale; the fees and expenses of the Directors, officers
and employees who are not affiliated with the Adviser; the cost of printing and
distributing reports and notices to shareholders; and the fees and disbursements
of custodians. The Fund may arrange to have third parties assume all or part of
the expenses of sale, underwriting and distribution of shares of the Fund. The
Fund is also responsible for expenses of shareholders' meetings, the cost of
responding to shareholders' inquiries, and expenses incurred in connection with
litigation, proceedings and claims and the legal obligation it may have to
indemnify its officers and Directors with respect thereto.
The Agreement identified the Adviser as the exclusive licensee of the
rights to use and sublicense the names "Scudder," "Scudder Kemper Investments,
Inc." and "Scudder Stevens and Clark, Inc." (together, the "Scudder Marks").
Under this license, the Corporation, with respect to the Funds, has the
non-exclusive right to use and sublicense the Scudder name and marks as part of
its name, and to use the Scudder Marks in the Corporation's investment products
and services.
In reviewing the terms of the agreement and in discussions with the
Adviser concerning such Agreement, the Directors who are not "interested
persons" of the Corporation have been represented by independent counsel at the
relevant Fund's expense.
The agreement provides that the Adviser shall not be liable for any
error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Fund in
connection with matters to which the Agreement relates, except a loss resulting
from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the
Adviser in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard by the
Adviser of its obligations and duties under the Agreement.
Officers and employees of the Adviser from time to time may have
transactions with various banks, including the Funds' custodian bank. It is the
Adviser's opinion that the terms and conditions of those transactions which have
occurred were not influenced by existing or potential custodial or other Fund
relationships.
None of the officers or Directors may have dealings with the Fund as
principals in the purchase or sale of securities, except as individual
subscribers or holders of shares of the Fund.
The term Scudder Investments is the designation given to the services
provided by Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. and its affiliates to the Scudder
Family of Funds.
40
<PAGE>
AMA InvestmentLink(SM) Program
Pursuant to an Agreement between the Adviser and AMA Solutions, Inc., a
subsidiary of the American Medical Association (the "AMA"), dated May 9, 1997,
the Adviser has agreed, subject to applicable state regulations, to pay AMA
Solutions, Inc. royalties in an amount equal to 5% of the management fee
received by the Adviser with respect to assets invested by AMA members in
Scudder funds in connection with the AMA InvestmentLink(SM) Program. The Adviser
will also pay AMA Solutions, Inc. a general monthly fee, currently in the amount
of $833. The AMA and AMA Solutions, Inc. are not engaged in the business of
providing investment advice and neither is registered as an investment adviser
or broker/dealer under federal securities laws. Any person who participates in
the AMA InvestmentLink(SM) Program will be a customer of the Adviser (or of a
subsidiary thereof) and not the AMA or AMA Solutions, Inc. AMA
InvestmentLink(SM) is a service mark of AMA Solutions, Inc.
Personal Investments by Employees of the Adviser
Employees of the Adviser are permitted to make personal securities
transactions, subject to requirements and restrictions set forth in the
Adviser's Code of Ethics. The Code of Ethics contains provisions and
requirements designed to identify and address certain conflicts of interest
between personal investment activities and the interests of investment advisory
clients such as the Funds. Among other things, the Code of Ethics, which
generally complies with standards recommended by the Investment Company
Institute's Advisory Group on Personal Investing, prohibits certain types of
transactions absent prior approval, imposes time periods during which personal
transactions may not be made in certain securities, and requires the submission
of duplicate broker confirmations and monthly reporting of securities
transactions. Additional restrictions apply to portfolio managers, traders,
research analysts and others involved in the investment advisory process.
Exceptions to these and other provisions of the Code of Ethics may be granted in
particular circumstances after review by appropriate personnel.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
Position with
Underwriter,
Scudder Investor
Name, Address and Age Position with Corporation Principal Occupation** Services, Inc.
- --------------------- ------------------------- ---------------------- --------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Nicholas Bratt*#@++ (51) President -- Global Discovery Managing Director of --
Fund Scudder Kemper
Investments, Inc.
Sheryle J. Bolton (53) Director Chief Executive Officer --
Scientific Learning Corporation and Director, Board of
1995 University Avenue Directors, Scientific
Suite 400 Learning Corporation;
Berkeley, CA 94704 Former President and
Chief Operating Officer,
Physicians Online, Inc.
(electronic transmission
of clinical information
for physicians
[1994-1995])
William T. Burgin (56) Director General Partner, Bessemer --
83 Walnut Street Venture Partners; General
Wellesley, MA 02481-2101 Partner, Deer & Company;
Director, Fort James
Corporation; Director of
various privately held
companies
Thomas J. Devine (73) Honorary Director Consultant --
450 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10022
41
<PAGE>
Position with
Underwriter,
Scudder Investor
Name, Address and Age Position with Corporation Principal Occupation** Services, Inc.
- --------------------- ------------------------- ---------------------- --------------
Keith R. Fox (45) Director Private Equity Investor, --
10 East 53rd Street Exeter Capital Management
New York, NY 10022 Corporation
William H. Gleysteen, Jr. (73) Honorary Director Consultant; Guest --
4937 Crescent Street Scholar, Brookings
Bethesda, MD 20816 Institution; President,
The Japan Society
(1989-1995)
William H. Luers (70) Director Chairman and President, --
993 Fifth Avenue U.N. Association of the
New York, NY 10028 U.S.A.; President, The
Metropolitan Museum of
Art (1986-1999)
Kathryn L. Quirk*++# (47) Director, Vice President and Managing Director of Director, Senior Vice
Assistant Secretary Scudder Kemper President, Chief Legal
Investments, Inc. Officer and Assistant
Clerk
Joan E. Spero (55) Director President, Doris Duke --
Doris Duke Charitable Foundation Charitable Foundation;
650 Fifth Avenue - 19th Floor Department of State
New York, NY 10128 Undersecretary of State
for Economic Business and
Agricultural Affairs
(1993-1997)
Robert G. Stone, Jr. (75) Honorary Director Chairman Emeritus and --
405 Lexington Avenue Director, Kirby
New York, NY 10174 Corporation (inland and
offshore marine
transportation and diesel
repairs)
Ann M. McCreary++ (43) Vice President Managing Director of --
Scudder Kemper
Investments, Inc.
Gerald J. Moran++ (59) Vice President Senior Vice President of --
Scudder Kemper
Investments, Inc.
John Millette+(37) Vice President and Secretary Assistant Vice President --
of Scudder Kemper
Investments, Inc.
John R. Hebble+ (41) Treasurer Senior Vice President of Assistant Treasurer
Scudder Kemper
Investments, Inc.
42
<PAGE>
Position with
Underwriter,
Scudder Investor
Name, Address and Age Position with Corporation Principal Occupation** Services, Inc.
- --------------------- ------------------------- ---------------------- --------------
Caroline Pearson+ (37) Assistant Secretary Senior Vice President of --
Scudder Kemper
Investments, Inc.;
Associate, Dechert Price
& Rhoads (law firm),
1989-1997
M. Isabel Saltzman+ (45) Vice President Managing Director of --
Scudder Kemper
Investments, Inc.
</TABLE>
* Mr. Bratt and Ms. Quirk are considered by the Corporation and its counsel
to be persons who are "interested persons" of the Adviser or of the
Corporation (within the meaning of the 1940 Act).
** Unless otherwise stated, all the Directors and officers have been
associated with their respective companies for more than five years, but
not necessarily in the same capacity.
# Mr. Fox and Ms. Quirk are members of the Executive Committee, which may
exercise powers of the Directors when they are not in session.
@ The President of a series shall have the status of Vice President of the
Corporation.
+ Address: Two International Place, Boston, Massachusetts 02110
++ Address: 345 Park Avenue, New York, New York 10154
Certain accounts for which the Adviser acts as investment adviser owned
2,219,985 shares in the aggregate of Global Discovery Fund, or 13.62% of the
outstanding shares on January 31, 2000. The Adviser may be deemed to be the
beneficial owner of such shares of Global Discovery Fund, but disclaims any
beneficial ownership therein.
As of January 31, 2000, 1,000,163 shares in the aggregate, 6.13% of the
outstanding shares of Scudder Global Discovery Fund were held in the name of
Charles Schwab & Co., 101 Montgomery Street, San Francisco, CA 94104-4122, who
may be deemed to be the beneficial owner of certain of these shares, but
disclaims any beneficial ownership therein.
To the knowledge of the Trust, as of January 31, 2000 all Directors and
officers as a group owned beneficially (as the term is defined in Section 13(d)
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) 39,995 shares, or 2.45% of the shares
of Global Discovery Fund outstanding on such date.
To the knowledge of the Trust, except as stated above, as of January
31, 2000, no person owned beneficially more than 5% of the Fund's outstanding
shares.
The Directors and officers of the Corporation also serve in similar
capacities with respect to other Scudder Funds.
REMUNERATION
Responsibilities of the Board -- Board and Committee Meetings
The Board of Directors is responsible for the general oversight of the
Fund's business. A majority of the Board's members are not affiliated with
Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. These "Independent Directors" have primary
responsibility for assuring that the Fund is managed in the best interests of
its shareholders.
The Board of Directors meets at least quarterly to review the
investment performance of the Fund and other operational matters, including
policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance with various regulatory
requirements. At least annually, the Independent Directors review the fees paid
to the Adviser and its affiliates for investment advisory services and other
administrative and shareholder services. In this regard, they evaluate, among
other things, the Fund's investment performance, the quality and efficiency of
the various other services provided, costs incurred by the Adviser and its
affiliates and comparative information regarding fees and expenses of
competitive funds. They are assisted in this process by the Fund's independent
public accountants and by independent legal counsel selected by the Independent
Directors.
43
<PAGE>
All the Independent Directors serve on the Committee on Independent
Directors, which nominates Independent Directors and considers other related
matters, and the Audit Committee, which selects the Fund's independent public
accountants and reviews accounting policies and controls. In addition,
Independent Directors from time to time have established and served on task
forces and subcommittees focusing on particular matters such as investment,
accounting and shareholder service issues.
Compensation of Officers and Directors
The Independent Directors receive the following compensation from
Global Discovery Fund of Global/International Fund, Inc.: an annual trustee's
fee of $3,500; a fee of $325 for attendance at each board meeting, audit
committee meeting or other meeting held for the purposes of considering
arrangements between the Trust on behalf of the Fund and the Adviser or any
affiliate of the Adviser; $100 for all other committee meetings; and
reimbursement of expenses incurred for travel to and from Board Meetings. No
additional compensation is paid to any Independent Director for travel time to
meetings, attendance at directors' educational seminars or conferences, service
on industry or association committees, participation as speakers at directors'
conferences or service on special trustee task forces or subcommittees.
Independent Directors do not receive any employee benefits such as pension or
retirement benefits or health insurance. Notwithstanding the schedule of fees,
the Independent Directors have in the past and may in the future waive a portion
of their compensation.
The Independent Directors also serve in the same capacity for other
funds managed by the Adviser. These funds differ broadly in type and complexity
and in some cases have substantially different Director fee schedules. The
following table shows the aggregate compensation received by each Independent
Director during 1999 from the Corporation and from all of the Scudder funds as a
group.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name Global/International Fund, Inc.* All Scudder Funds
- ---- -------------------------------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C>
Paul Bancroft III, Director $31,500 $159,991 (25 funds)
Sheryle J. Bolton, Director $38,000 $179,860 (24 funds)
William T. Burgin, Director $36,375 $160,325 (23 funds)
Keith R. Fox, Director $36,375 $160,325 (23 funds)
William H. Gleysteen, Jr., $0 $19,933@ (2 funds)
Honorary Director
William H. Luers, Director $39,625 $224,233 (28 funds)
Joan E. Spero $39,625 $175,275 (23 funds)
</TABLE>
* Global/International Fund, Inc. consists of five funds: Scudder Global
Fund, Scudder International Bond Fund, Scudder Global Bond Fund, Global
Discovery Fund and Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund.
@ This amount does not reflect $6,208 in retirement benefits accrued as
part of Fund Complex expenses, and $3,000, in estimated annual benefits
payable upon retirement. Retirement benefits accrued and proposed are
to be paid to Mr. Gleysteen as additional compensation for serving on
the Board of The Japan Fund, Inc.
Members of the Board of Directors who are employees of the Adviser or
its affiliates receive no direct compensation from the Corporation, although
they are compensated as employees of the Adviser, or its affiliates, as a result
of which they may be deemed to participate in fees paid by each Fund.
DISTRIBUTOR
The Corporation, on behalf of the Fund, has an underwriting agreement
with Scudder Investor Services, Inc., Two International Place, Boston,
Massachusetts, 02110-4103 (the "Distributor"), a Massachusetts corporation,
which is a subsidiary of the Adviser, a Delaware corporation. The Corporation's
underwriting agreement dated September 7, 1998
44
<PAGE>
will remain in effect from year to year thereafter only if its continuance is
approved annually by a majority of the members of the Directors who are not
parties to such agreement or interested persons of any such party and either by
vote of a majority of the Directors or a majority of the outstanding voting
securities of the Corporation. The underwriting agreement was most recently
approved by the Directors on August 7, 1999.
Under the underwriting agreement, the Corporation is responsible for:
the payment of all fees and expenses in connection with the preparation and
filing with the SEC of the Corporation's registration statement and prospectus
and any amendments and supplements thereto, the registration and qualification
of shares for sale in the various states, including registering the Corporation
as a broker/dealer in various states as required; the fees and expenses of
preparing, printing and mailing prospectuses (see below for expenses relating to
prospectuses paid by the Distributor), notices, proxy statements, reports or
other communications (including newsletters) to shareholders of the Fund; the
cost of printing and mailing confirmations of purchases of shares and the
prospectuses accompanying such confirmations; any issue taxes or any initial
transfer taxes; any of shareholder toll-free telephone charges and expenses of
shareholder service representatives; the cost of wiring funds for share
purchases and redemptions (unless paid by the shareholder who initiates the
transaction); the cost of printing and postage of business reply envelopes; and
any of the cost of computer terminals used by both the Corporation and the
Distributor.
The Distributor will pay for printing and distributing prospectuses or
reports prepared for its use in connection with the offering of Fund shares to
the public and preparing, printing and mailing any other literature or
advertising in connection with the offering of shares of the Fund to the public.
The Distributor will pay all fees and expenses in connection with its
qualification and registration as a broker or dealer under federal and state
laws, any of the cost of toll-free telephone service and expenses of service
representatives, any of the cost of computer terminals, and of any activity
which is primarily intended to result in the sale of shares issued by the
Corporation.
Note: Although the Scudder Shares currently has no 12b-1 Plan and
shareholder approval would be required in order to adopt one,
the underwriting agreement provides that the Fund will also
pay those fees and expenses permitted to be paid or assumed by
the Fund pursuant to a 12b-1 Plan, if any, adopted by the
Fund, notwithstanding any other provision to the contrary in
the underwriting agreement, and the Fund or a third party will
pay those fees and expenses not specifically allocated to the
Distributor in the underwriting agreement.
As agent, the Distributor currently offers the Fund's shares on a
continuous basis to investors in all states. The underwriting agreement provides
that the Distributor accepts orders for shares at net asset value as no sales
commission or load is charged to the investor. The Distributor has made no firm
commitment to acquire shares of the Corporation.
TAXES
The Fund has elected to be treated as a regulated investment company
under Subchapter M of the Code, or a predecessor statute and has qualified as
such since its inception. Such qualification does not involve governmental
supervision or management of investment practices or policy.
A regulated investment company qualifying under Subchapter M of the
Code is required to distribute to its shareholders at least 90% of its
investment company taxable income (including net short-term capital gain) and
generally is not subject to federal income tax to the extent that it distributes
annually its investment company taxable income and net realized capital gains in
the manner required under the Code. Global Discovery Fund intends to distribute
at least annually all of its respective investment company taxable income and
net realized capital gains and therefore do not expect to pay federal income
tax, although in certain circumstances the Fund may determine that it is in the
interest of shareholders to distribute less than that amount.
The Fund is subject to a 4% nondeductible excise tax on amounts
required to be but not distributed under a prescribed formula. The formula
requires the Fund to distribute to shareholders during a calendar year an amount
equal to at least 98% of the Fund's ordinary income for the calendar year, at
least 98% of the excess of its capital gains over capital losses (adjusted for
certain ordinary losses) realized during the one-year period ending October 31
during such year, and all ordinary income and capital gains for prior years that
were not previously distributed.
Investment company taxable income includes dividends, interest, net
short-term capital gains in excess of net long-term capital losses, and certain
foreign currency gains, if any, less expenses and certain foreign currency
losses, if any. Net realized capital gains for a fiscal year are computed by
taking into account any capital loss carryforward of the Fund.
45
<PAGE>
If any net realized long-term capital gains in excess of net realized
short-term capital losses are retained by the Fund for reinvestment, requiring
federal income taxes to be paid thereon by the Fund, the Fund intends to elect
to treat such capital gains as having been distributed to shareholders. As a
result, each shareholder will report such capital gains as long-term capital
gains taxable to shareholders at a maximum 20% or 28% capital gains rate
(depending on the Fund's holding period for the assets giving rise to the gain),
will be able to claim a relative share of federal income taxes paid by the Fund
on such gains as a credit against personal federal income tax liability, and
will be entitled to increase the adjusted tax basis on Fund shares by the
difference between a pro rata share of such gains owned and the individual tax
credit.
Distributions of investment company taxable income are taxable to
shareholders as ordinary income.
Dividends from domestic corporations are expected to comprise some
portion of the Fund's gross income. To the extent that such dividends constitute
any of the Fund's gross income, a portion of the income distributions of the
Fund will be eligible for the deduction for dividends received by corporations.
Shareholders will be informed of the portion of dividends which so qualify. The
dividends-received deduction is reduced to the extent that either the Fund
shares, or the underlying shares of stock held by the Fund, with respect to
which dividends are received, are treated as debt-financed under federal income
tax law and is eliminated if either those shares or shares of the Fund are
deemed to have been held by the Fund or the shareholder, as the case may be, for
less than 46 days during the 90-day period beginning 45 days before the shares
become ex-dividend.
Properly designated distributions of the excess of net long-term
capital gains over net short-term capital losses are taxable to shareholders at
a maximum 20% or 28% capital gains rate (depending on the Fund's holding period
for the assets giving rise to the gain), regardless of the length of time the
shares of the Fund have been held by such individual shareholders. Such
distributions are not eligible for the dividends-received deduction. Any loss
realized upon the redemption of shares held at the time of redemption for six
months or less from the date of their purchase will be treated as a long-term
capital loss to the extent of any amounts treated as distributions of long-term
capital gain during such six-month period.
Distributions of investment company taxable income and net realized
capital gains will be taxable as described above, whether received in shares or
in cash. Shareholders electing to receive distributions in the form of
additional shares will have a cost basis for federal income tax purposes in each
share so received equal to the net asset value of a share on the reinvestment
date.
All distributions of investment company taxable income and net realized
capital gain, whether received in shares or in cash, must be reported by each
shareholder on his or her federal income tax return. Dividends and capital gains
distributions declared in October, November or December and payable to
shareholders of record in such a month will be deemed to have been received by
shareholders on December 31 if paid during January of the following year.
Redemptions of shares, including exchanges for shares of another Scudder fund,
may result in tax consequences (gain or loss) to the shareholder and are also
subject to these reporting requirements.
A qualifying individual may make a deductible IRA contribution of up to
$2,000 or, if less, the amount of the individual's earned income for any taxable
year only if (i) neither the individual nor his or her spouse (unless filing
separate returns) is an active participant in an employer's retirement plan, or
(ii) the individual (and his or her spouse, if applicable) has an adjusted gross
income below a certain level ($40,050 for married individuals filing a joint
return, with a phase-out of the deduction for adjusted gross income between
$40,050 and $50,000; $25,050 for a single individual, with a phase-out for
adjusted gross income between $25,050 and $35,000). However, an individual not
permitted to make a deductible contribution to an IRA for any such taxable year
may nonetheless make nondeductible contributions up to $2,000 to an IRA (up to
$2,000 per individual for married couples if only one spouse has earned income)
for that year. There are special rules for determining how withdrawals are to be
taxed if an IRA contains both deductible and nondeductible amounts. In general,
a proportionate amount of each withdrawal will be deemed to be made from
nondeductible contributions; amounts treated as a return of nondeductible
contributions will not be taxable. Also, annual contributions may be made to a
spousal IRA even if the spouse has earnings in a given year if the spouse elects
to be treated as having no earnings (for IRA contribution purposes) for the
year.
Distributions by the Fund result in a reduction in the net asset value
of the Fund's shares. Should a distribution reduce the net asset value below a
shareholder's cost basis, such distribution would nevertheless be taxable to the
shareholder as ordinary income or capital gain as described above, even though,
from an investment standpoint, it may constitute a partial return of capital. In
particular, investors should consider the tax implications of buying shares just
prior to a distribution. The price of shares purchased at that time includes the
amount of the forthcoming distribution. Those purchasing just prior to a
distribution will then receive a partial return of capital upon the
distribution, which will nevertheless be taxable to them.
46
<PAGE>
Dividend and interest income received by the Fund from sources outside
the U.S. may be subject to withholding and other taxes imposed by such foreign
jurisdictions. Tax conventions between certain countries and the U.S. may reduce
or eliminate these foreign taxes, however, and foreign countries generally do
not impose taxes on capital gains in respect of investments by foreign
investors.
The Fund may invest in shares of certain foreign corporations which may
be classified under the Code as passive foreign investment companies ("PFICs").
If the Fund receives a so-called "excess distribution" with respect to PFIC
stock, the Fund itself may be subject to a tax on a portion of the excess
distribution. Certain distributions from a PFIC as well as gains from the sale
of the PFIC shares are treated as "excess distributions." In general, under the
PFIC rules, an excess distribution is treated as having been realized ratably
over the period during which the Fund held the PFIC shares. The Fund will be
subject to tax on the portion, if any, of an excess distribution that is
allocated to prior Fund taxable years and an interest factor will be added to
the tax, as if the tax had been payable in such prior taxable years. Excess
distributions allocated to the current taxable year are characterized as
ordinary income even though, absent application of the PFIC rules, certain
excess distributions might have been classified as capital gain.
The Fund may make an election to mark to market its shares of these
foreign investment companies in lieu of being subject to U.S. federal income
taxation. At the end of each taxable year to which the election applies, the
Fund would report as ordinary income the amount by which the fair market value
of the foreign company's stock exceeds the Fund's adjusted basis in these
shares; any mark to market losses and any loss from an actual disposition of
shares would be deductible as ordinary loss to the extent of any net mark to
market gains included in income in prior years. The effect of the election would
be to treat excess distributions and gain on dispositions as ordinary income
which is not subject to a fund level tax when distributed to shareholders as a
dividend. Alternatively, the Fund may elect to include as income and gain its
share of the ordinary earnings and net capital gain of certain foreign
investment companies in lieu of being taxed in the manner described above.
Equity options (including options on stock and options on narrow-based
stock indices) written or purchased by the Fund and over-the-counter options on
debt securities written or purchased by the Fund will be subject to tax under
Section 1234 of the Code. In general, no loss is recognized by the Fund upon
payment of a premium in connection with the purchase of a put or call option.
The character of any gain or loss recognized (i.e., long-term or short-term)
will generally depend in the case of a lapse or sale of the option on the Fund's
holding period for the option and in the case of an exercise of the option on
the Fund's holding period for the underlying stock. The purchase of a put option
may constitute a short sale for federal income tax purposes, causing an
adjustment in the holding period of the underlying security or substantially
identical security in the Fund's portfolio. If the Fund writes a put or call
option, no gain is recognized upon its receipt of a premium. If the option
lapses or is closed out, any gain or loss is treated as a short-term capital
gain or loss. If a call option written by the Fund is exercised any resulting
gain or loss is a short-term or long-term capital gain or loss depending on the
holding period of the underlying security. The exercise of a put option written
by the Fund is not a taxable transaction for the Fund.
Many futures contracts and certain foreign currency forward contracts
entered into by the Fund and all listed non-equity options written or purchased
by the Fund (including options on futures contracts and options on broad-based
stock indices) will be governed by Section 1256 of the Code. Absent a tax
election to the contrary, gain or loss attributable to the lapse, exercise or
closing out of any such position generally will be treated as 60% long-term and
40% short-term capital gain or loss, and on the last trading day of the Fund's
fiscal year, all outstanding Section 1256 positions will be marked to market
(i.e. treated as if such positions were closed out at their closing price on
such day), with any resulting gain or loss recognized as 60% long-term and 40%
short-term. Under Section 988 of the Code, discussed below, foreign currency
gain or loss from foreign currency-related forward contracts and similar
financial instruments entered into or acquired by the Fund will be treated as
ordinary income. Under certain circumstances, entry into a futures contract to
sell a security may constitute a short sale for federal income tax purposes,
causing an adjustment in the holding period of the underlying security or a
substantially identical security in the Fund's portfolio.
Positions of the Fund which consist of at least one stock and at least
one stock option or other position with respect to a related security which
substantially diminishes the Fund's risk of loss with respect to such stock
could be treated as a "straddle" which is governed by Section 1092 of the Code,
the operation of which may cause deferral of losses, adjustments in the holding
periods of stock or securities and conversion of short-term capital losses into
long-term capital losses. An exception to these straddle rules exists for any
"qualified covered call options" on stock written by the Fund.
Positions of the Fund which consist of at least one position not
governed by Section 1256 and at least one futures contract or forward contract
or nonequity option governed by Section 1256 which substantially diminishes the
Fund's risk of loss with respect to such other position will be treated as a
"mixed straddle." Mixed straddles are subject to the straddle rules
47
<PAGE>
of Section 1092 of the Code, and may result in the deferral of losses if the
non-Section 1256 position is in an unrealized gain at the end of a reporting
period.
Notwithstanding any of the foregoing, recent tax law changes may
require the Fund to recognize gain (but not loss) from a constructive sale of
certain "appreciated financial positions" if the Fund enters into a short sale,
offsetting notional principal contract, futures or forward contract transaction
with respect to the appreciated position or substantially identical property.
Appreciated financial positions subject to this constructive sale treatment are
interests (including options, futures and forward contracts and short sales) in
stock, partnership interests, certain actively traded trust instruments and
certain debt instruments. Constructive sale treatment of appreciated financial
positions does not apply to certain transactions closed in the 90-day period
ending with the 30th day after the close of the Fund's taxable year, if certain
conditions are met.
Similarly, if the Fund enters into a short sale of property that
becomes substantially worthless, the Fund will be required to recognize gain at
that time as though it had closed the short sale. Future regulations may apply
similar treatment to other strategic transactions with respect to property that
becomes substantially worthless.
Under the Code, gains or losses attributable to fluctuations in
exchange rates which occur between the time the Fund accrues receivables or
liabilities denominated in a foreign currency and the time the Fund actually
collects such receivables, or pays such liabilities, generally are treated as
ordinary income or ordinary loss. Similarly, on disposition of debt securities
denominated in a foreign currency and on disposition of certain futures
contracts, forward contracts and options, gains or losses attributable to
fluctuations in the value of foreign currency between the date of acquisition of
the security or contract and the date of disposition are also treated as
ordinary gain or loss. These gains or losses, referred to under the Code as
"Section 988" gains or losses, may increase or decrease the amount of the Fund's
investment company taxable income to be distributed to its shareholders as
ordinary income.
A portion of the difference between the issue price of zero coupon
securities and their face value ("original issue discount") is considered to be
income to the Fund each year, even though the Fund will not receive cash
interest payments from these securities. This original issue discount (imputed
income) will comprise a part of the investment company taxable income of the
Fund which must be distributed to shareholders in order to maintain the
qualification of the Fund as a regulated investment company and to avoid federal
income tax at the level of the Fund. Shareholders will be subject to income tax
on such original issue discount, whether or not they elect to receive their
distributions in cash.
If the Fund invests in stock of certain passive foreign investment
companies, that Fund may be subject to U.S. federal income taxation on a portion
of any "excess distribution" with respect to, or gain from the disposition of,
such stock. The tax would be determined by allocating such distribution or gain
ratably to each day of the Fund's holding period for the stock. The distribution
or gain so allocated to any taxable year of the Fund, other than the taxable
year of the excess distribution or disposition, would be taxed to the Fund at
the highest ordinary income rate in effect for such year, and the tax would be
further increased by an interest charge to reflect the value of the tax deferral
deemed to have resulted from the ownership of the foreign company's stock. Any
amount of distribution or gain allocated to the taxable year of the distribution
or disposition would be included in the Fund's investment company taxable income
and, accordingly, would not be taxable to the Fund to the extent distributed by
the Fund as a dividend to its shareholders.
The Fund may make an election to market its shares of these foreign
investment companies, in lieu of being subject to U.S. federal income taxation.
At the end of each taxable year to which the election applies, the Fund would
report as ordinary income the amount by which the fair market value of the
foreign company's stock exceeds the Fund's adjusted basis in these shares; any
mark-to-market losses and any loss from an actual disposition of stock would be
deductible as ordinary losses to the extent of any net mark-to-market gains
previously included in income in prior years. The effect of this election would
be to treat excess distributions and gain on dispositions as ordinary income
which is not subject to the Fund-level tax when distributed to shareholders as a
dividend. Alternatively, the Funds may elect to include as income and gain their
share of the ordinary earnings and net capital gain of certain foreign
investment companies in lieu of being taxed in the manner described above.
The Fund will be required to report to the IRS all distributions of
investment company taxable income and capital gains as well as gross proceeds
from the redemption or exchange of Fund shares, except in the case of certain
exempt shareholders. Under the backup withholding provisions of Section 3406 of
the Code, distributions of investment company taxable income and capital gains
and proceeds from the redemption or exchange of the shares of a regulated
investment company may be subject to withholding of federal income tax at the
rate of 31% in the case of non-exempt shareholders who fail to furnish the
investment company with their taxpayer identification numbers and with required
certifications regarding their status under the federal income tax law.
Withholding may also be required if the Fund is notified by the IRS or a broker
that the taxpayer identification number furnished by the shareholder is
incorrect or that the shareholder has previously failed
48
<PAGE>
to report interest or dividend income. If the withholding provisions are
applicable, any such distributions and proceeds, whether taken in cash or
reinvested in additional shares, will be reduced by the amounts required to be
withheld.
Shareholders of the Fund may be subject to state and local taxes on
distributions received from the Fund and on redemptions of the Fund's shares.
Each distribution is accompanied by a brief explanation of the form and
character of the distribution. In January of each year the Fund issues to each
shareholder a statement of the federal income tax status of all distributions.
Each distribution is accompanied by a brief explanation of the form and
character of the distribution. In January of each year the Corporation issues to
each shareholder a statement of the federal income tax status of all
distributions.
The foregoing discussion of U.S. federal income tax law relates solely
to the application of that law to U.S. persons, i.e., U.S. citizens and
residents and U.S. corporations, partnerships, trusts and estates. Each
shareholder who is not a U.S. person should consider the U.S. and foreign tax
consequences of ownership of shares of the Fund, including the possibility that
such a shareholder may be subject to a U.S. withholding tax at a rate of 30% (or
at a lower rate under an applicable income tax treaty) on amounts constituting
ordinary income received by him or her, where such amounts are treated as income
from U.S. sources under the Code.
Dividend and interest income received by the Fund from sources outside
the U.S. may be subject to withholding and other taxes imposed by such foreign
jurisdictions. Tax conventions between certain countries and the U.S. may reduce
or eliminate these foreign taxes, however, and foreign countries generally do
not impose taxes on capital gains respecting investments by foreign investors.
Shareholders should consult their tax advisers about the application of
the provisions of tax law described in this Statement of Additional Information
in light of their particular tax situations.
PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS
Brokerage
Allocation of brokerage is supervised by the Adviser.
The primary objective of the Adviser in placing orders for the purchase
and sale of securities for the Fund's portfolio is to obtain the most favorable
net results taking into account such factors as price, commission where
applicable, size of order, difficulty of execution and skill required of the
executing broker/dealer. The Adviser seeks to evaluate the overall
reasonableness of brokerage commissions paid (to the extent applicable) through
familiarity with commissions charged on comparable transactions, as well as by
comparing commissions paid by the Fund to reported commissions paid by others.
The Adviser reviews on a routine basis commission rates, execution and
settlement services performed, making internal and external comparisons.
The Fund's purchases and sales of fixed-income securities are generally
placed by the Adviser with primary market makers for these securities on a net
basis, without any brokerage commission being paid by the Fund. Trading does,
however, involve transaction costs. Transactions with dealers serving as primary
market makers reflect the spread between the bid and asked prices. Purchases of
underwritten issues may be made, which will include an underwriting fee paid to
the underwriter.
When it can be done consistently with the policy of obtaining the most
favorable net results, it is the Adviser's practice to place such orders with
broker/dealers who supply research, market and statistical information to the
Fund. The term "research, market and statistical information" includes advice as
to the value of securities; the advisability of investing in, purchasing or
selling securities; the availability of securities or purchasers or sellers of
securities; and analyses and reports concerning issuers, industries, securities,
economic factors and trends, portfolio strategy and the performance of accounts.
The Adviser is authorized when placing portfolio transactions for the Fund to
pay a brokerage commission in excess of that which another broker might charge
for executing the same transaction on account of the receipt of research, market
or statistical information. In effecting transactions in over-the-counter
securities, orders are placed with the principal market makers for the security
being traded unless, after exercising care, it appears that more favorable
results are available elsewhere.
49
<PAGE>
In selecting among firms believed to meet the criteria for handling a
particular transaction, the Adviser may give consideration to those firms that
have sold or are selling shares of the Fund or other funds managed by the
Adviser.
To the maximum extent feasible, it is expected that the Adviser will
place orders for portfolio transactions through Scudder Investor Services, Inc.
("SIS"), a corporation registered as a broker-dealer and a subsidiary of the
Adviser. SIS will place orders on behalf of the Fund with issuers, underwriters
or other brokers and dealers. SIS will not receive any commission, fee or other
remuneration from the Fund for this service.
Although certain research, market and statistical information from
broker/dealers may be useful to the Fund and to the Adviser, it is the opinion
of the Adviser that such information only supplements its own research effort
since the information must still be analyzed, weighed and reviewed by the
Adviser's staff. Such information may be useful to the Adviser in providing
services to clients other than the Fund and not all such information is used by
the Adviser in connection with the Fund. Conversely, such information provided
to the Adviser by broker/dealers through whom other clients of the Adviser
effect securities transactions may be useful to the Adviser in providing
services to the Fund.
The Directors of the Fund review from time to time whether the
recapture for the benefit of the Fund of some portion of the brokerage
commissions or similar fees paid by the Fund on portfolio transactions is
legally permissible and advisable.
The Fund's average portfolio turnover rate is the ratio of the lesser
of sales or purchases to the monthly average value of the portfolio securities
owned during the year, excluding all securities with maturities or expiration
dates at the time of acquisition of one year or less. A higher rate involves
greater brokerage transaction expenses to the Fund and may result in the
realization of net capital gains, which would be taxable to shareholders when
distributed. Purchases and sales are made for the Fund's portfolio whenever
necessary, in management's opinion, to meet the Fund's objective.
For the fiscal years ended October 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997, Global
Discovery Fund paid brokerage commissions of $509,685, $526,742 and $759,086,
respectively. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1999, $454,169 (89.11% of
the total brokerage commissions) resulted from orders placed, consistent with
the policy of seeking to obtain the most favorable net results, with brokers and
dealers who provided supplementary research, market and statistical information
to the Fund or the Adviser. The total amount of brokerage transactions
aggregated $465,504,428, of which $390,035,622 (83.79% of all brokerage
transactions), were transactions which included research transactions.
Portfolio Turnover
The Fund's average annual portfolio turnover rate (defined by the SEC
as the ratio of the lesser of sales or purchases to the monthly average value of
such securities owned during the year, excluding all securities with maturities
at the time of acquisition of one year or less). Purchases and sales are made
for the Fund's portfolio whenever necessary, in management's opinion, to meet
the Fund's objective. The Fund's portfolio turnover rates for the fiscal years
ended October 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997 were 64.0%, 40.6% and 60.5%, respectively.
NET ASSET VALUE
The net asset value of shares of the Fund is computed as of the close
of regular trading on the Exchange on each day the Exchange is open for trading
(the "Value Time"). The Exchange is scheduled to be closed on the following
holidays: New Year's Day, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good
Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas,
and on the preceding Friday or subsequent Monday when one of these holidays
falls on a Saturday or Sunday, respectively. Net asset value per share is
determined by dividing the value of the total assets of the Fund, less all
liabilities, by the total number of shares outstanding.
An exchange-traded equity security is valued at its most recent sale
price on the exchange it is traded as of the Value Time. Lacking any sales, the
security is valued at the calculated mean between the most recent bid quotation
and the most recent asked quotation (the "Calculated Mean") on such exchange as
of the Value Time. Lacking a Calculated Mean quotation the security is valued at
the most recent bid quotation on such exchange as of the Value Time. An equity
security which is traded on the National Association of Securities Dealers
Automated Quotation ("Nasdaq") system will be valued at its most recent sale
price on such system as of the Value Time. Lacking any sales, the security will
be valued at the most recent bid quotation as of the Value Time. The value of an
equity security not quoted on the Nasdaq system, but traded in another
over-the-counter market, is its most recent sale price if there are any sales of
such security on such market as of the Value Time. Lacking any sales, the
security is valued at the Calculated Mean quotation for such security as of the
Value Time. Lacking a Calculated Mean quotation the security is valued at the
most recent bid quotation as of the Value Time.
50
<PAGE>
Debt securities, other than money market instruments, are valued at
prices supplied by the Fund's pricing agent(s) which reflect broker/dealer
supplied valuations and electronic data processing techniques. Money market
instruments with an original maturity of sixty days or less maturing at par
shall be valued at amortized cost, which the Board believes approximates market
value. If it is not possible to value a particular debt security pursuant to
these valuation methods, the value of such security is the most recent bid
quotation supplied by a bona fide marketmaker. If it is not possible to value a
particular debt security pursuant to the above methods, the Adviser may
calculate the price of that debt security, subject to limitations established by
the Board.
An exchange traded options contract on securities, currencies, futures
and other financial instruments is valued at its most recent sale price on such
exchange. Lacking any sales, the options contract is valued at the Calculated
Mean. Lacking any Calculated Mean, the options contract is valued at the most
recent bid quotation in the case of a purchased options contract, or the most
recent asked quotation in the case of a written options contract. An options
contract on securities, currencies and other financial instruments traded
over-the-counter is valued at the most recent bid quotation in the case of a
purchased options contract and at the most recent asked quotation in the case of
a written options contract. Futures contracts are valued at the most recent
settlement price. Foreign currency exchange forward contracts are valued at the
value of the underlying currency at the prevailing exchange rate.
If a security is traded on more than one exchange, or upon one or more
exchanges and in the over-the-counter market, quotations are taken from the
market in which the security is traded most extensively.
If, in the opinion of the Fund's Valuation Committee, the value of a
portfolio asset as determined in accordance with these procedures does not
represent the fair market value of the portfolio asset, the value of the
portfolio asset is taken to be an amount which, in the opinion of the Valuation
Committee, represents fair market value on the basis of all available
information. The value of other portfolio holdings owned by the Fund is
determined in a manner which, in the discretion of the Valuation Committee most
fairly reflects fair market value of the property on the valuation date.
Following the valuations of securities or other portfolio assets in
terms of the currency in which the market quotation used is expressed ("Local
Currency"), the value of these portfolio assets in terms of U.S. dollars is
calculated by converting the Local Currency into U.S. dollars at the prevailing
currency exchange rate on the valuation date.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Experts
The Financial Highlights of the Fund included in the prospectus and the
Financial Statements incorporated by reference in this Statement of Additional
Information have been so included or incorporated by reference in reliance on
the report of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, One Post Office Square, Boston,
Massachusetts 02109, independent accountants, and given on the authority of that
firm as experts in accounting and auditing. PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP is
responsible for performing annual audits of the financial statements and
financial highlights of the Fund in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards, and the preparation of federal tax returns.
Other Information
Many of the investment changes in the Fund will be made at prices
different from those prevailing at the time such changes may be reflected in a
regular report to shareholders of the Fund. These transactions will reflect
investment decisions made by the Adviser in light of the investment objectives
and policies of the Fund, and such factors as its other portfolio holdings and
tax considerations should not be construed as recommendations for similar action
by other investors.
The CUSIP number of the Scudder Shares of Global Discovery Fund is:
811150-40-8.
The Fund's fiscal year end is October 31.
The law firm of Dechert Price & Rhoads is counsel for the Fund.
Brown Brothers Harriman & Co., 40 Water Street, Boston, Massachusetts
02109, is employed as custodian for the Fund. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. has
entered into agreements with foreign subcustodians approved by the Directors of
the Corporation pursuant to Rule 17f-5 of the Investment Company Act.
51
<PAGE>
Scudder Fund Accounting Corporation ("SFAC"), Two International Place,
Boston, Massachusetts 02110-4103, a subsidiary of the Adviser, computes net
asset value for the Fund. The Fund pays SFAC an annual fee equal to 0.065% of
the first $150 million of average daily net assets, 0.040% of such assets in
excess of $150 million and 0.020% of such assets in excess of $1 billion, plus
holding and transaction charges for this service. Scudder Fund Accounting
Corporation charged Global Discovery Fund an aggregate fee of $416,308 (of which
$77,999 was unpaid at October 31, 1999), $302,281 and $207,838 for the fiscal
years ended October 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997, respectively.
Information set forth below for periods prior to April 16, 1998 with
respect to Global Discovery Fund is provided at the Fund level since that Fund
consisted of one class of shares (which class was re-designated as "Scudder
Global Discovery Shares") until April 16, 1998.
Scudder Service Corporation, P.O. Box 2291, Boston, Massachusetts
02107-2291, a subsidiary of the Adviser, is the transfer and dividend paying
agent for the Scudder Shares. Scudder Service Corporation also serves as
shareholder service agent and provides subaccounting and recordkeeping services
for shareholder accounts in certain retirement and employee benefit plans. The
Fund pays Scudder Service Corporation an annual fee for each account maintained
as a participant. The fee incurred by Global Discovery Fund for the year ended
October 31, 1997 amounted to $851,578. The fee incurred by Global Discovery Fund
on behalf of the Scudder Shares, for the year ended October 31, 1998, amounted
to $734,090. The fee incurred by Global Discovery Fund on behalf of the Scudder
Shares, for the year ended October 31, 1999, amounted to $652,269, of which
$102,077 was unpaid at October 31, 1999.
Scudder Trust Company, an affiliate of the Adviser, provides
subaccounting and recordkeeping services for shareholder accounts in certain
retirement and employee benefit plans. Annual service fees are paid by the Funds
to Scudder Trust Company, Two International Place, Boston, Massachusetts
02110-4103 for such accounts. The Fund pays Scudder Trust company an annual fee
of $26.00 per shareholder account. The fee incurred by Global Discovery Fund for
the year ended October 31, 1997 amounted to $186,872. The fee incurred by Global
Discovery Fund for the year ended October 31, 1998 amounted to $200,043, of
which $17,404 was unpaid at October 31, 1998. The fee incurred by Global
Discovery Fund for the year ended October 31, 1999 amounted to $222,376, of
which $58,347 was unpaid at October 31, 1999.
The Fund's prospectus and this Statement of Additional Information omit
certain information contained in the Registration Statement which the
Corporation has filed with the SEC under the 1933 Act and reference is hereby
made to the Registration Statement for further information with respect to the
Fund and the securities offered hereby. This Registration Statement is available
for inspection by the public at the SEC in Washington, D.C.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Global Discovery Fund
The financial statements, including the Investment Portfolio of Global
Discovery Fund -- Scudder Shares, together with the Report of Independent
Accountants, and Financial Highlights, are incorporated by reference and
attached hereto in the Annual Report to Shareholders of the Fund dated October
31, 1999, and are deemed to be a part of this Statement of Additional
Information.
52
<PAGE>
APPENDIX
The following is a description of the ratings given by Moody's and S&P
to corporate and municipal bonds.
Ratings of Municipal and Corporate Bonds
S&P:
Debt rated AAA has the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poor's.
Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong. Debt rated AA
has a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal and differs from
the highest rated issues only in small degree. Debt rated A has a strong
capacity to pay interest and repay principal although it is somewhat more
susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic
conditions than debt in higher rated categories. Debt rated BBB is regarded as
having an adequate capacity to pay interest and repay principal. Whereas it
normally exhibits adequate protection parameters, adverse economic conditions or
changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay
interest and repay principal for debt in this category than in higher rated
categories.
Debt rated BB, B, CCC, CC and C is regarded as having predominantly
speculative characteristics with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay
principal. BB indicates the least degree of speculation and C the highest. While
such debt will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these
are outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposures to adverse conditions.
Debt rated BB has less near-term vulnerability to default than other
speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to
adverse business, financial, or economic conditions which could lead to
inadequate capacity to meet timely interest and principal payments. The BB
rating category is also used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is
assigned an actual or implied BBB- rating. Debt rated B has a greater
vulnerability to default but currently has the capacity to meet interest
payments and principal repayments. Adverse business, financial, or economic
conditions will likely impair capacity or willingness to pay interest and repay
principal. The B rating category is also used for debt subordinated to senior
debt that is assigned an actual or implied BB or BB- rating.
Debt rated CCC has a currently identifiable vulnerability to default,
and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions to
meet timely payment of interest and repayment of principal. In the event of
adverse business, financial, or economic conditions, it is not likely to have
the capacity to pay interest and repay principal. The CCC rating category is
also used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or
implied B or B- rating. The rating CC typically is applied to debt subordinated
to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied CCC rating. The rating C
typically is applied to debt subordinated to senior debt which is assigned an
actual or implied CCC- debt rating. The C rating may be used to cover a
situation where a bankruptcy petition has been filed, but debt service payments
are continued. The rating C1 is reserved for income bonds on which no interest
is being paid. Debt rated D is in payment default. The D rating category is used
when interest payments or principal payments are not made on the date due even
if the applicable grace period had not expired, unless S&P believes that such
payments will be made during such grace period. The D rating also will be used
upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition if debt service payments are
jeopardized.
Moody's:
Bonds which are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They
carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as
"gilt edge." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally
stable margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are
likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair
the fundamentally strong position of such issues. Bonds which are rated Aa are
judged to be of high quality by all standards. Together with the Aaa group they
comprise what are generally known as high grade bonds. They are rated lower than
the best bonds because margins of protection may not be as large as in Aaa
securities or fluctuation of protective elements may be of greater amplitude or
there may be other elements present which make the long term risks appear
somewhat larger than in Aaa securities. Bonds which are rated A possess many
favorable investment attributes and are to be considered as upper medium grade
obligations. Factors giving security to principal and interest are considered
adequate but elements may be present which suggest a susceptibility to
impairment sometime in the future.
Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium grade obligations,
i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments
and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in
fact have speculative characteristics as well. Bonds which are rated Ba are
judged to have speculative
<PAGE>
elements; their future cannot be considered as well assured. Often the
protection of interest and principal payments may be very moderate and thereby
not well safeguarded during other good and bad times over the future.
Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class. Bonds which are rated
B generally lack characteristics of the desirable investment. Assurance of
interest and principal payments or of maintenance of other terms of the contract
over any long period of time may be small.
Bonds which are rated Caa are of poor standing. Such issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal or
interest. Bonds which are rated Ca represent obligations which are speculative
in a high degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked
shortcomings. Bonds which are rated C are the lowest rated class of bonds and
issues so rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever
attaining any real investment standing.
<PAGE>
LONG-TERM
INVESTING
IN A
SHORT-TERM
WORLD(SM)
March 1, 2000
Prospectus
K E M P E R G L O B A L / I N T E R N A T I O N A L F U N D S
Kemper Asian Growth Fund
Kemper Emerging Markets Growth Fund
Kemper Global Blue Chip Fund
Global Discovery Fund
Kemper Global Income Fund
Kemper International Fund
Kemper Latin America Fund
Kemper New Europe Fund
As with all mutual funds, the Securities and
Exchange Commission (SEC) does not approve
or disapprove these shares or determine
whether the information in this prospectus
is truthful or complete. It is a criminal
offense for anyone to inform you otherwise.
[LOGO] KEMPER FUNDS
<PAGE>
HOW THE INVESTING IN
FUNDS WORK THE FUNDS
2 Kemper Asian Growth 32 Kemper International 75 Choosing A Share
Fund Fund Class
8 Kemper Emerging 38 Kemper Latin America 81 How To Buy Shares
Markets Growth Fund Fund
82 How To Exchange
14 Kemper Global Blue 44 Kemper New Europe Or Sell Shares
Chip Fund Fund
83 Policies You Should
20 Kemper Global 51 Other Policies and Know About
Discovery Fund Risks
91 Understanding
26 Kemper Global Income 53 Financial Highlights Distributions And
Fund Taxes
<PAGE>
How The Funds Work
These funds invest significantly in foreign securities. Seven of the funds focus
on stocks, one mainly on bonds. Each fund is dedicated to a particular region of
the world or a particular investment theme, and follows its own investment goal.
Remember that mutual funds are investments, not bank deposits. They're not
guaranteed or insured by the FDIC or any other government agency. Their share
prices will go up and down, so be aware that you could lose money.
<PAGE>
TICKER SYMBOLS CLASS: A) KANAX B) KANBX C) KANCX
Kemper
Asian Growth Fund
FUND GOAL The fund seeks long-term capital growth.
2 | Kemper Asian Growth Fund
<PAGE>
The Fund's Main Strategy
The fund invests at least 85% of total assets in common stocks and other Asian
equities (equities that are issued by companies organized under the laws of an
Asian country or traded mainly on Asian markets and do more than half of their
business in Asia). The fund generally focuses on emerging Asian markets, such as
China, Indonesia, Korea and Thailand.
In choosing stocks, the portfolio managers use a combination of three analytical
disciplines:
Bottom-up research. The managers look for individual companies with identifiable
market niches and sound balance sheets, among other factors.
Growth orientation. The managers generally look for companies that seem to offer
the potential for sustainable above-average growth of revenue or earnings
relative to each stock's own market.
Analysis of regional themes. The managers look for significant social, economic,
industrial and demographic changes, with an eye toward identifying countries,
industries and companies that may benefit from these changes.
The managers may favor securities from different countries and industries at
different times, while still maintaining variety in terms of the countries and
industries represented.
The fund will normally sell a stock when the managers believe it has reached its
fair value, other investments offer better opportunities or when adjusting its
exposure to a given country or industry.
[ICON]--------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER INVESTMENTS
While most of the fund's equities are common stocks, some may be other types of
equities, such as convertible stocks or preferred stocks. The fund may invest up
to 15% of total assets in debt securities of any issuer or credit quality,
including junk bonds (i.e., grade BB and below) or in non-Asian equities.
3 | Kemper Asian Growth Fund
<PAGE>
The Main Risks Of Investing In The Fund
There are several factors that could hurt fund performance, cause you to lose
money or make the fund perform less well than other investments.
The most important factor with this fund is how Asian stock markets perform --
something that depends on a large number of factors, including economic,
political and demographic trends. When Asian stock prices fall, you should
expect the value of your investment to fall as well. The fact that the fund
concentrates on a single geographical region could affect fund performance. For
example, Asian companies could be hurt by such factors as regional economic
downturns (some Asian economies are currently in recession), currency
devaluations, the inability of governments or banking systems to bring about
reforms or trade barriers on exports.
Emerging markets, a category that includes most Asian countries, tend to be more
volatile than developed markets, for reasons ranging from political and economic
uncertainties to poor regulation and liquidity to a higher risk that essential
information may be incomplete or wrong.
Because a stock represents ownership in its issuer, stock prices can be hurt by
poor management, shrinking product demand and other business risks. These may
affect single companies as well as groups of companies. In addition, changing
currency rates could add to the fund's investment losses or reduce its
investment gains.
Other factors that could affect performance include:
o the managers could be wrong in their analysis of economic trends,
countries, industries, companies or other matters
o growth stocks may be out of favor for certain periods
o at times, market conditions might make it hard to value some
investments or to get an attractive price for them
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This fund may make sense for investors interested in diversifying a growth
portfolio with exposure to emerging countries in Asia.
4 | Kemper Asian Growth Fund
<PAGE>
Performance
The bar chart shows how the total returns for the fund's Class A shares have
varied from year to year, which may give some idea of risk. The chart doesn't
reflect sales loads; if it did, returns would be lower. The table shows how the
fund's returns over different periods average out.
For context, the table has a broad-based market index (which, unlike the fund,
has no fees or expenses). All figures on this page assume reinvestment of
dividends and distributions. As always, past performance is no guarantee of
future results.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31 each year Class A Shares
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT CONTAINS A BAR CHART HERE
BAR CHART DATA:
1997 -34.60
1998 -19.02
1999 71.97
Best quarter: 40.35%, Q2 '99 Worst quarter: -33.05%, Q2 '98
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31/1999
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since 12/31/98 Since 10/21/96
1 Year Life of Class
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A 62.14% -2.85%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B 68.21 -2.50
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C 69.16 -2.18
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index 49.83 -0.57*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index: The Morgan Stanley Capital International All Country Asia Free Ex-Japan
Index is a capitalized weighted index that is representative of the equity
securities for the following countries: Hong Kong, Indonesia, Korea (at 20%),
Malaysia, Philippines free, Singapore free and Thailand.
* Index comparison begins 10/31/96.
In the chart, total returns from 1997 through 1999 would have been lower if
operating expenses hadn't been reduced.
The table includes the effects of maximum sales loads. In the table, total
returns from inception through 1999 would have been lower if operating expenses
hadn't been reduced.
5 | Kemper Asian Growth Fund
<PAGE>
How Much Investors Pay
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold
shares of the fund.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fee Table Class A Class B Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Fees, paid directly from your investment
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed On Purchases
(as % of offering price) 5.75% None None
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as % of
redemption proceeds) None* 4.00% 1.00%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Operating Expenses, deducted from fund assets
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Management Fee 0.85% 0.85% 0.85%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution (12b-1) Fee None 0.75 0.75
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Expenses** 3.19 3.35 4.26
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Annual Operating Expenses 4.04 4.95 5.86
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expense Reimbursement 1.84 2.17 3.06
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Annual Operating Expenses*** 2.20 2.78 2.80
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The redemption of shares purchased at net asset value under the Large
Order NAV Purchase Privilege (see "Policies You Should Know About --
Policies about transactions") may be subject to a contingent deferred
sales charge of 1.00% if redeemed within one year of purchase and 0.50%
if redeemed during the second year following purchase.
** Includes costs of shareholder servicing, custody, accounting services
and similar expenses, which may vary with fund size and other factors.
"Other Expenses" are restated to reflect changes in certain
administrative and regulatory fees.
*** By contract, total operating expenses are capped at 2.20%, 2.78% and
2.80% for Class A, Class B and Class C shares, respectively, through
02/28/2001.
Based on the figures above (including one year of capped expenses in each
period), this example is designed to help you compare the expenses of each share
class to those of other funds. The example assumes operating expenses remain the
same and that you invested $10,000, earned 5% annual returns and reinvested all
dividends and distributions. This is only an example; actual expenses will be
different.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Example 1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, assuming you sold your shares at the end of each period
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A shares $785 $1,576 $2,381 $4,464
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B shares 681 1,594 2,507 4,502
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C shares 383 1,471 2,638 5,469
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, assuming you kept your shares
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A shares $785 $1,576 $2,381 $4,464
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B shares 281 1,294 2,307 4,502
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C shares 283 1,471 2,638 5,469
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6 | Kemper Asian Growth Fund
<PAGE>
THE INVESTMENT ADVISOR
The fund's investment advisor is Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc., 345 Park
Avenue, New York, NY. Scudder Kemper has more than 80 years of experience
managing mutual funds and currently has more than $290 billion in assets under
management.
Scudder Kemper takes a team approach to asset management, bringing together
professionals from many investment disciplines. Supporting each team are Scudder
Kemper's many economists, research analysts, traders and other investment
specialists, located across the United States and around the world.
For serving as the fund's investment advisor, Scudder Kemper receives a
management fee from the fund. For the most recent fiscal year, the actual amount
the fund paid in management fees was 0.00%* of average daily net assets.
* Reflecting the effect of expense limitations and/or fee waivers then in
effect.
[ICON]--------------------------------------------------------------------------
FUND MANAGERS
The following people handle the fund's day-to-day
management:
Tien Yu Sieh Theresa Gusman
Lead Portfolio Manager o Began investment career
o Began investment career in 1983
in 1990 o Joined the advisor in
o Joined the advisor in 1996 1992
o Joined the fund team o Joined the fund team
in 1999 in 1998
Elizabeth J. Allan
o Began investment career
in 1982
o Joined the advisor in 1987
o Joined the fund team
in 1998
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The fund is managed by a team of investment professionals who work together to
develop the fund's investment strategies.
7 | Kemper Asian Growth Fund
<PAGE>
TICKER SYMBOLS CLASS: A) KEMAX B) KEMBX C) KEMCX
Kemper
Emerging Markets
Growth Fund
FUND GOAL The fund seeks long-term capital growth.
8 | Kemper Emerging Markets Growth Fund
<PAGE>
The Fund's Main Strategy
The fund invests at least 65% of total assets in common stocks and other
equities from emerging market countries, which are located in Latin America,
Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Eastern Europe.
In choosing stocks, the portfolio managers use a combination of three analytical
disciplines:
Bottom-up research. The managers look for individual companies that have
exceptional business prospects (due to factors that may range from market
dominance to innovative products or services).
Growth orientation. The managers generally look for companies that seem to offer
the potential for sustainable above-average growth of revenue or earnings
relative to each stock's own market.
Top-down analysis. The managers look for significant social, economic,
industrial and demographic changes, with an eye toward identifying countries,
industries and companies that may benefit from these changes.
The managers may favor securities from different countries and industries at
different times, while still maintaining variety in terms of the countries and
industries represented.
The fund will normally sell a stock when the managers believe it has reached its
fair value, other investments offer better opportunities or when adjusting its
exposure to a given country or industry.
[ICON]--------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER INVESTMENTS
While most of the fund's equities are common stocks, some may be other types of
equities, such as convertible stocks or preferred stocks. The fund may invest up
to 35% of total assets in developed foreign and U.S. equities, and may invest up
to 35% of total assets in emerging market and U.S. debt securities, including
junk bonds (i.e., grade BB and below). Compared to investment-grade bonds, junk
bonds may pay higher yields and have higher volatility and risk of default.
9 | Kemper Emerging Markets Growth Fund
<PAGE>
The Main Risks Of Investing In The Fund
There are several factors that could hurt fund performance, cause you to lose
money or make the fund perform less well than other investments.
The most important factor with this fund is how emerging market stocks perform
- -- something that depends on a large number of factors, including economic,
political and demographic trends. When emerging market stock prices fall, you
should expect the value of your investment to fall as well. If the fund
emphasizes a given market, such as Latin America, factors affecting that market
will affect performance. Emerging markets tend to be more volatile than
developed markets, for reasons ranging from political and economic uncertainties
to poor regulation and liquidity to a higher risk that essential information may
be incomplete or wrong.
Because a stock represents ownership in its issuer, stock prices can be hurt by
poor management, shrinking product demand and other business risks. These may
affect single companies as well as groups of companies. The fact that the fund
is not diversified and may invest in relatively few companies increases fund
risk, because any factors affecting a given company could affect performance. In
addition, changing currency rates could add to the fund's investment losses or
reduce its investment gains.
Other factors that could affect performance include:
o the managers could be wrong in their analysis of economic trends,
countries, industries, companies or other matters
o growth stocks may be out of favor for certain periods
o at times, market conditions might make it hard to value some
investments or to get an attractive price for them
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This fund may make sense for investors interested in adding exposure to
countries located in emerging markets.
10 | Kemper Emerging Markets Growth Fund
<PAGE>
Performance
The bar chart shows the total return for the fund's Class A shares, which may
give some idea of risk. The chart doesn't reflect sales loads; if it did,
returns would be lower. The table shows how the fund's returns over different
periods average out.
For context, the table has a broad-based market index (which, unlike the fund,
has no fees or expenses). All figures on this page assume reinvestment of
dividends and distributions. As always, past performance is no guarantee of
future results.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31 Class A Shares
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT CONTAINS A BAR CHART HERE
BAR CHART DATA:
1999 49.26
Best quarter: 30.89%, Q4 '99 Worst quarter: -7.31%, Q3 '99
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31/1999
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since 12/31/98 Since 1/9/98
1 Year Life of Class
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A 40.60% 9.77%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B 45.01 10.70
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C 48.01 12.21
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index 66.65 18.81*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index: IFCI Emerging Markets Investable Index, a U.S. dollar-denominated index
comprised of stocks of countries classified as either low- or middle-income
economies by the World Bank regardless of their particular stage of development.
* Index comparison begins 1/31/98.
In the chart, total returns for 1999 would have been lower if operating expenses
hadn't been reduced.
The table includes the effects of maximum sales loads. In the table, total
returns from inception through 1999 would have been lower if operating expenses
hadn't been reduced.
11 | Kemper Emerging Markets Growth Fund
<PAGE>
How Much Investors Pay
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold
shares of the fund.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fee Table Class A Class B Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Fees, paid directly from your investment
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed On Purchases
(as % of offering price) 5.75% None None
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as % of
redemption proceeds) None* 4.00% 1.00%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Operating Expenses, deducted from fund assets
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Management Fee 1.25% 1.25% 1.25%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution (12b-1) Fee None 0.75 0.75
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Expenses** 13.14 13.36 13.63
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Annual Operating Expenses 14.39 15.36 15.63
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expense Reimbursement 12.11 12.18 12.48
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Annual Operating Expenses*** 2.28 3.18 3.15
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The redemption of shares purchased at net asset value under the Large
Order NAV Purchase Privilege (see "Policies You Should Know About --
Policies about transactions") may be subject to a contingent deferred
sales charge of 1.00% if redeemed within one year of purchase and 0.50%
if redeemed during the second year following purchase.
** Includes costs of shareholder servicing, custody, accounting services
and similar expenses, which may vary with fund size and other factors.
"Other Expenses" are restated to reflect changes in certain
administrative and regulatory fees.
*** By contract, total operating expenses are capped at 2.28%, 3.18% and
3.15% for Class A, Class B and Class C shares, respectively, through
2/28/2001.
Based on the figures above (including one year of capped expenses in each
period), this example is designed to help you compare the expenses of each share
class to those of other funds. The example assumes operating expenses remain the
same and that you invested $10,000, earned 5% annual returns and reinvested all
dividends and distributions. This is only an example; actual expenses will be
different.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Example 1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, assuming you sold your shares at the end of each period
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A $793 $3,324 $5,401 $9,111
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B 721 3,433 5,593 9,156
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C 418 3,172 5,452 9,340
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, assuming you kept your shares
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A $793 $3,324 $5,401 $9,111
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B 321 3,133 5,393 9,156
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C 318 3,172 5,452 9,340
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
12 | Kemper Emerging Markets Growth Fund
<PAGE>
THE INVESTMENT ADVISOR
The fund's investment advisor is Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc., 345 Park
Avenue, New York, NY. Scudder Kemper has more than 80 years of experience
managing mutual funds and currently has more than $290 billion in assets under
management.
Scudder Kemper takes a team approach to asset management, bringing together
professionals from many investment disciplines. Supporting each team are Scudder
Kemper's many economists, research analysts, traders and other investment
specialists, located across the United States and around the world.
For serving as the fund's investment advisor, Scudder Kemper receives a
management fee from the fund. For the most recent fiscal year, the actual amount
the fund paid in management fees was 0.00%* of average daily net assets.
* Reflecting the effect of expense limitations and/or fee waivers then in
effect.
[ICON]--------------------------------------------------------------------------
FUND MANAGERS
The following people handle the fund's day-to-day
management:
Joyce E. Cornell Theresa Gusman
Lead Portfolio Manager o Began investment career
o Began investment career in 1983
in 1987 o Joined the advisor in
o Joined the advisor in 1991 1992
o Joined the fund team o Joined the fund team
in 1998 in 1998
Andre J. DeSimone Tara C. Kenney
o Began investment career o Began investment career
in 1981 in 1984
o Joined the advisor in 1997 o Joined the advisor in
o Joined the fund team 1995
in 1998 o Joined the fund team
in 1998
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The fund is managed by a team of investment professionals who work together to
develop the fund's investment strategies.
13 | Kemper Emerging Markets Growth Fund
<PAGE>
TICKER SYMBOLS CLASS: A) KGLAX B) KGLBX C) KGLCX
Kemper
Global Blue Chip Fund
FUND GOAL The fund seeks long-term capital growth.
14 | Kemper Global Blue Chip Fund
<PAGE>
The Fund's Main Strategy
The fund invests at least 65% of total assets in common stocks and other
equities of "blue chip" companies throughout the world. These are large, well
known companies that typically have an established earnings and dividends
history, easy access to credit, solid positions in their industries and strong
management. Although the fund may invest in any country, it primarily focuses on
countries with developed economies (including the U.S.).
In choosing stocks, the portfolio managers look for those blue-chip companies
that appear likely to benefit from global economic trends or have promising new
technologies or products.
The managers may favor securities from different countries and industries at
different times, while still maintaining variety in terms of the countries and
industries represented.
The fund will normally sell a stock when the managers believe it has reached its
fair value, when its fundamental factors have changed or when adjusting its
exposure to a given country or industry.
[ICON]--------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER INVESTMENTS
While most of the fund's equities are common stocks, some may be other types of
equities, such as convertible stocks or preferred stocks. While the fund invests
mainly in developed countries, it may invest up to 15% of total assets in
emerging market debt or equity securities of emerging markets (of which, 5% of
net assets may be junk bonds, i.e., grade BB and below).
15 | Kemper Global Blue Chip Fund
<PAGE>
The Main Risks Of Investing In The Fund
There are several factors that could hurt fund performance, cause you to lose
money or make the fund perform less well than other investments.
The most important factor with this fund is how U.S. and foreign stock markets
perform -- something that depends on a large number of factors, including
economic, political and demographic trends. When U.S. and foreign stock prices
fall, especially prices of large company stocks, you should expect the value of
your investment to fall as well. Foreign stocks tend to be more volatile than
their U.S. counterparts, for reasons ranging from political and economic
uncertainties to a higher risk that essential information may be incomplete or
wrong.
Large company stocks at times may not perform as well as stocks of smaller or
mid-size companies. Because a stock represents ownership in its issuer, stock
prices can be hurt by poor management, shrinking product demand and other
business risks. These may affect single companies as well as groups of
companies. In addition, changing currency rates could add to the fund's
investment losses or reduce its investment gains.
Other factors that could affect performance include:
o the managers could be wrong in their analysis of economic trends,
countries, industries, companies or other matters
o at times, market conditions might make it hard to value some
investments or to get an attractive price for them
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you are interested in large-cap stocks and want to look beyond U.S. markets,
this fund could be suitable for you.
16 | Kemper Global Blue Chip Fund
<PAGE>
Performance
The bar chart shows how the total returns for the fund's Class A shares have
varied from year to year, which may give some idea of risk. The chart doesn't
reflect sales loads; if it did, returns would be lower. The table shows how the
fund's returns over different periods average out.
For context, the table has a broad-based market index (which, unlike the fund,
has no fees or expenses). All figures on this page assume reinvestment of
dividends and distributions. As always, past performance is no guarantee of
future results.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31 each year Class A Shares
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT CONTAINS A BAR CHART HERE
BAR CHART DATA:
1998 13.79
1999 28.23
Best quarter: 18.78%, Q4 '99 Worst quarter: -8.00%, Q3 '98
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31/1999
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since 12/31/98 Since 12/31/97
1 Year Life of Class
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A 20.85% 17.25%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B 24.02 18.34
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C 27.07 19.73
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index 25.34 25.07
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index: The MSCI (Morgan Stanley Capital International) World Index measures
performance of a range of developed country general stock markets, including the
United States, Canada, Europe, Australia, New Zealand and the Far East.
In the chart, total returns from 1998 through 1999 would have been lower if
operating expenses hadn't been reduced.
The table includes the effects of maximum sales loads. In the table, total
returns from inception through 1999 would have been lower if operating expenses
hadn't been reduced.
17 | Kemper Global Blue Chip Fund
<PAGE>
How Much Investors Pay
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold
shares of the fund.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fee Table Class A Class B Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Fees, paid directly from your investment
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed On Purchases
(as % of offering price) 5.75% None None
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as % of
redemption proceeds) None* 4.00% 1.00%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Operating Expenses, deducted from fund assets
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Management Fee 1.00% 1.00% 1.00%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution (12b-1) Fee None 0.75 0.75
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Expenses** 3.44 3.84 4.14
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Annual Operating Expenses 4.44 5.59 5.89
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expense Reimbursement 2.64 2.91 3.24
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Annual Operating Expenses*** 1.80 2.68 2.65
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The redemption of shares purchased at net asset value under the Large Order
NAV Purchase Privilege (see "Policies You Should Know About -- Policies about
transactions") may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge of 1.00% if
redeemed within one year of purchase and 0.50% if redeemed during the second
year following purchase.
** Includes costs of shareholder servicing, custody, accounting services and
similar expenses, which may vary with fund size and other factors. "Other
Expenses" are restated to reflect changes in certain administrative and
regulatory fees.
*** By contract, total operating expenses are capped at 1.80%, 2.68% and 2.65%
for Class A, Class B and Class C shares, respectively, through 2/28/2001.
Based on the figures above (including one year of capped expenses in each
period), this example is designed to help you compare the expenses of each share
class to those of other funds. The example assumes operating expenses remain the
same and that you invested $10,000, earned 5% annual returns and reinvested all
dividends and distributions. This is only an example; actual expenses will be
different.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Example 1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, assuming you sold your shares at the end of each period
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A shares $747 $1,616 $2,495 $4,735
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B shares 671 1,708 2,732 4,874
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C shares 368 1,464 2,638 5,483
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, assuming you kept your shares
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A shares $747 $1,616 $2,495 $4,735
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B shares 271 1,408 2,532 4,874
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C shares 268 1,464 2,638 5,483
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
18 | Kemper Global Blue Chip Fund
<PAGE>
THE INVESTMENT ADVISOR
The fund's investment advisor is Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc., 345 Park
Avenue, New York, NY. Scudder Kemper has more than 80 years of experience
managing mutual funds and currently has more than $290 billion in assets under
management.
Scudder Kemper takes a team approach to asset management, bringing together
professionals from many investment disciplines. Supporting each team are Scudder
Kemper's many economists, research analysts, traders and other investment
specialists, located across the United States and around the world.
For serving as the fund's investment advisor, Scudder Kemper receives a
management fee from the fund. For the most recent fiscal year, the actual amount
the fund paid in management fees was 0.00%* of average daily net assets.
* Reflecting the effect of expense limitations and/or fee waivers then in
effect.
[ICON]--------------------------------------------------------------------------
FUND MANAGERS
The following people handle the fund's day-to-day
management:
Diego Espinosa William E. Holzer
Lead Portfolio Manager o Began investment career
o Began investment career in 1970
in 1991 o Joined the advisor in
o Joined the advisor in 1996 1980
o Joined the fund team in o Joined the fund team in
1998 1998
Nicholas Bratt
o Began investment career
in 1974
o Joined the advisor in 1976
o Joined the fund team in
1998
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The fund is managed by a team of investment professionals who work together to
develop the fund's investment strategies.
19 | Kemper Global Blue Chip Fund
<PAGE>
TICKER SYMBOLS CLASS: A) KGDAX B) KGDBX C) KGDCX
Kemper
Global Discovery Fund*
FUND GOAL The fund seeks above-average long-term capital appreciation.
* Kemper Global Discovery Fund is properly known as Global Discovery
Fund.
20 | Kemper Global Discovery Fund
<PAGE>
The Fund's Main Strategy
The fund invests at least 65% of total assets in common stocks and other
equities of small companies throughout the world (companies with market values
similar to the smallest 20% of the Salomon Brothers Broad Market Index). The
fund generally focuses on countries with developed economies (including the
U.S.). As of December 31, 1999, companies in which the fund invests typically
have a market capitalization of between $75 million and $5.7 billion.
In choosing stocks, the portfolio managers use a combination of three analytical
disciplines:
Bottom-up research. The managers look for companies that appear to have
effective management, strong competitive positioning, vigorous research and
development efforts and sound balance sheets.
Growth orientation. The managers generally look for companies that have
above-average potential for sustainable growth of revenue or earnings compared
to large companies, and whose market value appears reasonable in light of their
business prospects.
Analysis of regional themes. The managers look for significant social, economic,
industrial and demographic changes, seeking to identify stocks that may benefit
from them.
The managers may favor different securities at different times, while still
maintaining variety in terms of the countries and industries represented.
The fund will normally sell a stock when the managers believe its price is
unlikely to go much higher, its fundamentals have deteriorated, other
investments offer better opportunities or in the course of adjusting its
emphasis on a given country.
[ICON]--------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER INVESTMENTS
While most of the fund's equities are common stocks, some may be other types of
equities, such as convertible stocks or preferred stocks. The fund may invest up
to 35% of total assets in common stocks and other equities of large companies or
in debt securities (of which, 5% of net assets may be junk bonds, i.e. grade BB
and below).
21 | Kemper Global Discovery Fund
<PAGE>
The Main Risks Of Investing In The Fund
There are several factors that could hurt the fund's performance, cause you to
lose money or make the fund perform less well than other investments.
The most important factor with this fund is how U.S. and foreign stock markets
perform -- something that depends on a large number of factors, including
economic, political and demographic trends. When U.S. and foreign stock prices
fall, you should expect the value of your investment to fall as well. Foreign
stocks tend to be more volatile than their U.S. counterparts, for reasons
ranging from political and economic uncertainties to a higher risk that
essential information may be incomplete or wrong. These risks tend to be greater
in emerging markets.
Compared to large company stocks, small and mid-size stocks tend to be more
volatile, in part because these companies tend to be less established and the
valuation of their stocks often depends on future expectations. Because a stock
represents ownership in its issuer, stock prices can be hurt by poor management,
shrinking product demand and other business risks. These may affect single
companies as well as groups of companies. In addition, changing currency rates
could add to the fund's investment losses or reduce its investment gains.
Other factors that could affect performance include:
o the managers could be wrong in their analysis of economic trends,
countries, industries, companies or other matters
o growth stocks may be out of favor for certain periods
o at times, it could be hard to value some investments or to get an
attractive price for them
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This fund may interest long-term investors who want to diversify a large-cap or
domestic portfolio of investments.
22 | Kemper Global Discovery Fund
<PAGE>
Performance
The bar chart shows the total return for the fund's Class A shares, which may
give some idea of risk. The chart doesn't reflect sales loads; if it did,
returns would be lower. The table shows how the fund's returns over different
periods average out.
For context, the table has a broad-based market index (which, unlike the fund,
has no fees or expenses). All figures on this page assume reinvestment of
dividends and distributions. As always, past performance is no guarantee of
future results.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31 Class A Shares
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT CONTAINS A BAR CHART HERE
BAR CHART DATA:
1999 64.15
Best quarter: 41.23%, Q4 '99 Worst quarter: -5.43%, Q3 '99
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31/1999
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since 12/31/98 Since 4/16/98
1 Year Life of Class
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A 54.68% 23.94%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B 59.70 28.00
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C 62.83 29.53
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index 22.36 8.10*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index: Salomon Brothers World Equity Extended Market Index, an unmanaged small
capitalization stock universe of 22 countries.
* Index comparison begins 4/30/98.
In the chart, total returns for 1999 would have been lower if operating expenses
hadn't been reduced.
The table includes the effects of maximum sales loads. In the table, total
returns from inception through 1999 would have been lower if operating expenses
hadn't been reduced.
23 | Kemper Global Discovery Fund
<PAGE>
How Much Investors Pay
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold
shares of the fund.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fee Table Class A Class B Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Fees, paid directly from your investment
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed On Purchases
(as % of offering price) 5.75% None None
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as % of
redemption proceeds) None* 4.00% 1.00%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Operating Expenses, deducted from fund assets
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Management Fee 1.10% 1.10% 1.10%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution (12b-1) Fee None 0.75 0.75
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Expenses** 1.20 1.63 1.19
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Annual Operating Expenses 2.30 3.48 3.04
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expense Reimbursement 0.29 0.65 0.24
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Annual Operating Expenses*** 2.01 2.83 2.80
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The redemption of shares purchased at net asset value under the Large
Order NAV Purchase Privilege (see "Policies You Should Know About --
Policies about transactions") may be subject to a contingent deferred
sales charge of 1.00% if redeemed within one year of purchase and 0.50%
if redeemed during the second year following purchase.
** Includes costs of shareholder servicing, custody, accounting services
and similar expenses, which may vary with fund size and other factors.
"Other Expenses" are restated to reflect changes in certain
administrative and regulatory fees.
*** By contract, total operating expenses are capped at 2.01%, 2.83% and
2.80% for Class A, Class B and Class C shares, respectively, through
2/28/2001.
Based on the figures above (including one year of capped expenses in each
period), this example is designed to help you compare the expenses of each share
class to those of other funds. The example assumes operating expenses remain the
same and that you invested $10,000, earned 5% annual returns and reinvested all
dividends and distributions. This is only an example; actual expenses will be
different.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Example 1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, assuming you sold your shares at the end of each period
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A shares $767 $1,226 $1,710 $3,038
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B shares 686 1,308 1,952 3,202
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C shares 383 917 1,575 3,338
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, assuming you kept your shares
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A shares $767 $1,226 $1,710 $3,038
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B shares 286 1,008 1,752 3,202
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C shares 283 917 1,575 3,338
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
24 | Kemper Global Discovery Fund
<PAGE>
THE INVESTMENT ADVISOR
The fund's investment advisor is Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc., 345 Park
Avenue, New York, NY. Scudder Kemper has more than 80 years of experience
managing mutual funds and currently has more than $290 billion in assets under
management.
Scudder Kemper takes a team approach to asset management, bringing together
professionals from many investment disciplines. Supporting each team are Scudder
Kemper's many economists, research analysts, traders and other investment
specialists, located across the United States and around the world.
For serving as the fund's investment advisor, Scudder Kemper receives a
management fee from the fund. For the most recent fiscal year, the actual amount
the fund paid in management fees was 0.88% of average daily net assets.
[ICON]--------------------------------------------------------------------------
FUND MANAGERS
The following people handle the fund's day-to-day
management:
Gerald J. Moran Steven T. Stokes
Lead Portfolio Manager o Began investment career
o Began investment career in 1986
in 1968 o Joined the advisor in
o Joined the advisor in 1968 1996
o Joined the fund team o Joined the fund team
in 1991 in 1999
Sewall Hodges
o Began investment career
in 1978
o Joined the advisor in 1995
o Joined the fund team
in 1996
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The fund is managed by a team of investment professionals who work together to
develop the fund's investment strategies.
25 | Kemper Global Discovery Fund
<PAGE>
TICKER SYMBOLS CLASS: A) KGIAX B) KGIBX C) KGICX
Kemper
Global Income Fund
FUND GOAL The fund seeks to provide high current income consistent with
prudent total return asset management.
26 | Kemper Global Income Fund
<PAGE>
The Fund's Main Strategy
The fund invests at least 65% of total assets in foreign and U.S.
investment-grade bonds and other income-producing securities. While the fund may
invest in securities issued by any issuer and in any currency, it generally
focuses on issuers in developed markets, such as Australia, Canada, Japan, New
Zealand, the U.S. and Western Europe, and on securities of other countries that
are denominated in the currencies of these countries or the euro.
In making their buy and sell decisions, the portfolio managers typically
consider a number of factors, including economic outlooks, interest rate
movements, inflation trends, security characteristics and changes in supply and
demand within global bond markets. In choosing individual bonds, the managers
use independent analysis to look for bonds that have attractive yields and good
credit. The managers may favor securities from different countries and issuers
at different times, while still maintaining variety in terms of countries and
issuers represented.
Although the managers may adjust the fund's duration (a measure of sensitivity
to interest rate movements), they generally intend to keep it between 4.0 and
6.0 years.
[ICON]--------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER INVESTMENTS
This fund normally invests at least 65% of total assets in investment-grade
bonds, which are those in the top four credit grades (i.e., as low as BBB/Baa).
The fund may invest up to 35% of net assets in foreign or domestic debt
securities of any credit quality, including junk bonds (i.e., grade BB and
below). Compared to investment-grade bonds, junk bonds may pay higher yields and
have higher volatility and risk of default.
27 | Kemper Global Income Fund
<PAGE>
The Main Risks Of Investing In The Fund
There are several factors that could hurt fund performance, cause you to lose
money or make the fund perform less well than other investments.
For this fund, the main factor is global interest rates. A rise in interest
rates generally means a fall in bond prices -- and, in turn, a fall in the value
of your investment. (As a general rule, a 1% rise in interest rates means a 1%
fall in value for every year of duration.)
Foreign markets tend to be more volatile than U.S. markets, for reasons ranging
from political and economic uncertainties to poor regulation to a higher risk
that essential information may be incomplete or wrong.
Another major factor is currency exchange rates. When the dollar value of a
foreign currency falls, so does the value of any investments the fund owns that
are denominated in that currency. This is separate from market risk, and may add
to market losses or reduce market gains.
The fact that the fund is not diversified and may invest in securities of
relatively few issuers increases its risk, because any factors affecting a given
company could affect performance. Similarly, if the fund emphasizes a given
market, such as Canada, or a given industry, factors affecting that market or
industry will affect performance.
Other factors that could affect performance include:
o the managers could be wrong in their analysis of economic trends,
countries, issuers, industries or other matters
o a bond could fall in credit quality or go into default; this risk is
greater for junk bonds
o some types of bonds could be paid off earlier than expected, which
would hurt the fund's performance
o at times, market conditions might make it hard to value some
investments or to get an attractive price for them
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This fund may make sense for investors seeking a less aggressive approach to
international income investing.
28 | Kemper Global Income Fund
<PAGE>
Performance
The bar chart shows how the total returns for the fund's Class A shares have
varied from year to year, which may give some idea of risk. The chart doesn't
reflect sales loads; if it did, returns would be lower. The table shows how the
fund's returns over different periods average out.
For context, the table has a broad-based market index (which, unlike the fund,
has no fees or expenses). All figures on this page assume reinvestment of
dividends and distributions. As always, past performance is no guarantee of
future results.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31 each year Class A Shares
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT CONTAINS A BAR CHART HERE
BAR CHART DATA:
1990 22.66
1991 11.13
1992 -1.90
1993 10.23
1994 -1.47
1995 19.89
1996 5.87
1997 1.80
1998 10.48
1999 -6.38
Best quarter: 11.23%, Q1 '95 Worst quarter: -4.32%, Q1 '92
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31/1999
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since Since Since 5/31/94 Since
12/31/98 12/31/94 Life of Class 12/31/89
1 Year 5 Years B/C 10 Years
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A -10.58% 5.01% -- 6.36%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B -9.66 5.07 4.88% --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C -7.06 5.30 5.08 --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index -4.27 6.42 6.30 8.03
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index: Salomon Brothers World Government Bond Index, an unmanaged index on a
U.S. dollar total return basis, with all dividends reinvested, and includes
government bonds from 14 countries. The minimum maturity is one year.
The table includes the effects of maximum sales loads.
29 | Kemper Global Income Fund
<PAGE>
How Much Investors Pay
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold
shares of the fund.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fee Table Class A Class B Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Fees, paid directly from your investment
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed On Purchases
(as % of offering price) 4.50% None None
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as % of
redemption proceeds) None* 4.00% 1.00%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Operating Expenses, deducted from fund assets
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Management Fee 0.75% 0.75% 0.75%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution (12b-1) Fee None 0.75 0.75
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Expenses** 0.96 0.89 0.86
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Annual Operating Expenses 1.71 2.39 2.36
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The redemption of shares purchased at net asset value under the Large
Order NAV Purchase Privilege (see "Policies You Should Know About --
Policies about transactions") may be subject to a contingent deferred
sales charge of 1.00% if redeemed within one year of purchase and 0.50%
if redeemed during the second year following purchase.
** Includes costs of shareholder servicing, custody, accounting services
and similar expenses, which may vary with fund size and other factors.
"Other Expenses" are restated to reflect changes in certain
administrative and regulatory fees.
Based on the figures above, this example is designed to help you compare the
expenses of each share class to those of other funds. The example assumes
operating expenses remain the same and that you invested $10,000, earned 5%
annual returns and reinvested all dividends and distributions. This is only an
example; actual expenses will be different.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Example 1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, assuming you sold your shares at the end of each period
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A shares $616 $965 $1,336 $2,379
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B shares 642 1,045 1,475 2,403
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C shares 339 736 1,260 2,696
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, assuming you kept your shares
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A shares $616 $965 $1,336 $2,379
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B shares 242 745 1,275 2,403
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C shares 239 736 1,260 2,696
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
30 | Kemper Global Income Fund
<PAGE>
THE INVESTMENT ADVISOR
The fund's investment advisor is Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc., 345 Park
Avenue, New York, NY. Scudder Kemper has more than 80 years of experience
managing mutual funds and currently has more than $290 billion in assets under
management.
Scudder Kemper takes a team approach to asset management, bringing together
professionals from many investment disciplines. Supporting each team are Scudder
Kemper's many economists, research analysts, traders and other investment
specialists, located across the United States and around the world.
For serving as the fund's investment advisor, Scudder Kemper receives a
management fee from the fund. For the most recent fiscal year, the actual amount
the fund paid in management fees was 0.75% of average daily net assets.
Scudder Investments (U.K.) Limited, 1 South Place, London, U.K., an affiliate of
Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc., is the sub-advisor for Kemper Global Income
Fund. Scudder Investments (U.K.) Limited has served as sub-advisor for mutual
funds since December, 1996 and investment advisor for certain institutional
accounts since August, 1998.
Scudder Investments (U.K.) Limited renders investment advisory and management
services with regard to the portion of the fund's portfolio as allocated to
Scudder Investments (U.K.) Limited by Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. from
time-to-time for management, including services related to foreign securities,
foreign currency transactions and related investments.
[ICON]--------------------------------------------------------------------------
FUND MANAGERS
The following people handle the fund's day-to-day management:
Jan C. Faller Jeremy L. Ragus
Co-Lead Portfolio Manager o Began investment career
o Began investment career in 1977
in 1988 o Joined the advisor
o Joined the advisor in 1999 in 1990
o Joined the fund team in 1999 o Joined the fund team
in 1999
Robert Stirling
Co-Lead Portfolio Manager
o Began investment career
in 1984
o Joined the sub-advisor
in 1995
o Joined the fund team in 1999
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The fund is managed by a team of investment professionals who
work together to develop the fund's investment strategies.
31 | Kemper Global Income Fund
<PAGE>
TICKER SYMBOLS CLASS: A) KITAX B) KINBX C) KITCX
Kemper
International Fund
FUND GOAL The fund seeks total return through a combination of capital
growth and income.
32 | Kemper International Fund
<PAGE>
The Fund's Main Strategy
The fund invests at least 80% of total assets in foreign securities (securities
issued by foreign-based issuers). The fund invests at least 65% of total assets
in common stocks of established foreign companies with the potential for capital
growth, income or both. The fund may invest more than 25% of total assets in any
given developed country that the manager believes poses no unique investment
risk.
In choosing stocks, the portfolio managers use a combination of three analytical
disciplines:
Bottom-up research. The managers look for individual companies that have sound
financial strength, good business prospects and strong competitive positioning
and above-average earnings growth, among other factors.
Top-down analysis. The managers consider the economic outlooks for various
countries and geographical areas, favoring those they believe have sound
economic conditions and open markets.
Analysis of global themes. The managers look for significant changes in the
business environment, with an eye toward identifying industries that may benefit
from these changes.
The managers may favor securities from different countries and industries at
different times, while still maintaining variety in terms of the countries and
industries represented.
The fund will normally sell a stock when the managers believe it has reached its
fair value, its underlying investment theme has matured or the reasons for
originally investing no longer apply.
[ICON]--------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER INVESTMENTS
While most of the fund's equities are common stocks, some may be other types of
equities, such as convertible stocks or preferred stocks. The fund may invest up
to 35% of net assets in foreign or domestic debt securities of any credit
quality, including junk bonds (i.e., grade BB and below). Compared to
investment-grade bonds, junk bonds may pay higher yields and have higher
volatility and risk of default.
33 | Kemper International Fund
<PAGE>
The Main Risks Of Investing In The Fund
There are several factors that could hurt fund performance, cause you to lose
money or make the fund perform less well than other investments.
The most important factor with this fund is how foreign stock markets perform --
something that depends on a large number of factors, including economic,
political and demographic trends. When foreign stock prices fall, you should
expect the value of your investment to fall as well.
Foreign stocks may at times be more volatile than their U.S. counterparts, for
reasons ranging from political and economic uncertainties to a higher risk that
essential information may be incomplete or wrong.
Because a stock represents ownership in its issuer, stock prices can be hurt by
poor management, shrinking product demand and other business risks. These may
affect single companies as well as groups of companies. In addition, changing
currency rates could add to the fund's investment losses or reduce its
investment gains.
Other factors that could affect performance include:
o the managers could be wrong in their analysis of economic trends,
countries, industries, companies or other matters
o bond investments could be hurt by rising interest rates or declines in
credit quality
o at times, market conditions might make it hard to value some
investments or to get an attractive price for them
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investors who are looking for a broadly diversified international fund may want
to consider this fund.
34 | Kemper International Fund
<PAGE>
Performance
The bar chart shows how the total returns for the fund's Class A shares have
varied from year to year, which may give some idea of risk. The chart doesn't
reflect sales loads; if it did, returns would be lower. The table shows how the
fund's returns over different periods average out.
For context, the table has a broad-based market index (which, unlike the fund,
has no fees or expenses). All figures on this page assume reinvestment of
dividends and distributions. As always, past performance is no guarantee of
future results.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31 each year Class A Shares
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT CONTAINS A BAR CHART HERE
BAR CHART DATA:
1990 -7.50
1991 9.13
1992 -4.79
1993 35.65
1994 -4.00
1995 12.96
1996 17.05
1997 9.00
1998 7.88
1999 41.30
Best quarter: 29.96%, Q4 '99 Worst quarter: -17.89%, Q3 '98
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average Annual Total Returns (%) as 12/31/1999
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since Since 5/31/94 Since
Since 12/31/98 12/31/94 Life of Class 12/31/89
1 Year 5 Years B/C 10 Years
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A 33.20% 15.68% -- 9.99%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B 37.34 15.90 13.62% --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C 40.42 16.03 13.73 --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index 27.30 13.15 11.81 7.33
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index: MSCI EAFE Index (Morgan Stanley Capital International Europe,
Austral-Asia, Far East Index), a generally accepted benchmark for performance of
major overseas markets.
The table includes the effects of maximum sales loads. In the table and the
chart, total returns for 1990 would have been lower if operating expenses hadn't
been reduced.
35 | Kemper International Fund
<PAGE>
How Much Investors Pay
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold
shares of the fund.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fee Table Class A Class B Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Fees, paid directly from your investment
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed On Purchases
(as % of offering price) 5.75% None None
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as % of
redemption proceeds) None* 4.00% 1.00%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Operating Expenses, deducted from fund assets
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Management Fee 0.74% 0.74% 0.74%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution (12b-1) Fee None 0.75 0.75
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Expenses** 0.88 0.97 0.86
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Annual Operating Expenses 1.62 2.46 2.35
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The redemption of shares purchased at net asset value under the Large Order
NAV Purchase Privilege (see "Policies You Should Know About -- Policies
about transactions") may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge of
1.00% if redeemed within one year of purchase and 0.50% if redeemed during
the second year following purchase.
** Includes costs of shareholder servicing, custody, accounting services and
similar expenses, which may vary with fund size and other factors. "Other
Expenses" are restated to reflect changes in certain administrative and
regulatory fees.
Based on the figures above, this example is designed to help you compare the
expenses of each share class to those of other funds. The example assumes
operating expenses remain the same and that you invested $10,000, earned 5%
annual returns and reinvested all dividends and distributions. This is only an
example; actual expenses will be different.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Example 1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, assuming you sold your shares at the end of each period
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A shares $730 $1,057 $1,406 $2,386
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B shares 649 1,067 1,511 2,399
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C shares 338 733 1,255 2,686
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, assuming you kept your shares
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A shares $730 $1,057 $1,406 $2,386
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B shares 249 767 1,311 2,399
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C shares 238 733 1,255 2,686
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
36 | Kemper International Fund
<PAGE>
THE INVESTMENT ADVISOR
The fund's investment advisor is Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc., 345 Park
Avenue, New York, NY. Scudder Kemper has more than 80 years of experience
managing mutual funds and currently has more than $290 billion in assets under
management.
Scudder Kemper takes a team approach to asset management, bringing together
professionals from many investment disciplines. Supporting each team are Scudder
Kemper's many economists, research analysts, traders and other investment
specialists, located across the United States and around the world.
For serving as the fund's investment advisor, Scudder Kemper receives a
management fee from the fund. For the most recent fiscal year, the actual amount
the fund paid in management fees was 0.74% of average daily net assets.
Scudder Investments (U.K.) Limited, 1 South Place, London, U.K., an affiliate of
Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc., is the sub-advisor for Kemper International
Fund. Scudder Investments (U.K.) Limited has served as sub-advisor for mutual
funds since December, 1996 and investment advisor for certain institutional
accounts since August, 1998.
Scudder Investments (U.K.) Limited renders investment advisory and management
services with regard to the portion of the fund's portfolio as allocated to
Scudder Investments (U.K.) Limited by Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. from
time-to-time for management, including services related to foreign securities,
foreign currency transactions and related investments.
[ICON]--------------------------------------------------------------------------
FUND MANAGERS
The following people handle the fund's day-to-day
management:
Irene Cheng Marc Slendebroek
Lead Portfolio Manager o Began investment career
o Began investment career in 1990
in 1985 o Joined the sub-advisor
o Joined the advisor in 1993 in 1994
o Joined the fund team o Joined the fund team
in 1999 in 1998
Nicholas Bratt Carol L. Franklin
o Began investment career o Began investment career
in 1974 in 1975
o Joined the advisor in 1976 o Joined the advisor
o Joined the fund team in 1981
in 2000 o Joined the fund team
in 2000
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The fund is managed by a team of investment professionals who work together to
develop the fund's investment strategies.
37 | Kemper International Fund
<PAGE>
TICKER SYMBOLS CLASS: A) KLAAX B) KLABX C) KLACX
Kemper
Latin America Fund
FUND GOAL The fund seeks long-term capital appreciation.
38 | Kemper Latin America Fund
<PAGE>
The Fund's Main Strategy
The fund invests at least 65% of total assets in Latin American common stocks
and other equities that are issued by companies organized under the laws of a
Latin American country or traded on Latin American markets and do more than half
of their business in Latin America. The fund generally focuses on Argentina,
Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Mexico and Peru.
In choosing stocks, the portfolio managers use a combination of three analytical
disciplines:
Bottom-up research. The managers look for individual companies with competitive
business positions, good technologies, and sound balance sheets, among other
factors. The managers also consider the quality of management, the impact of
government regulations and trade initiatives and the cost of labor and raw
materials.
Growth orientation. The managers generally look for companies that seem to offer
the potential for sustainable above-average growth of revenue or earnings
relative to each stock's own market.
Analysis of regional themes. The managers look for significant social, economic,
industrial and demographic changes, with an eye toward identifying countries,
industries and companies that may benefit from these changes.
The managers may favor securities from different countries and industries at
different times, while still maintaining variety in terms of the countries and
industries represented.
The fund will normally sell a stock when the managers believe it has reached its
fair value, other investments offer better opportunities or when adjusting its
exposure to a given country or industry.
[ICON]--------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER INVESTMENTS
While most of the fund's equities are common stocks, some may be other types of
equities, such as convertible stocks or preferred stocks. The fund may invest up
to 35% of total assets in non-Latin American (including U.S.) debt and equity
securities, including junk bonds (i.e., grade BB and below). Compared to
investment-grade bonds, junk bonds may pay higher yields and have higher
volatility and risk of default.
39 | Kemper Latin America Fund
<PAGE>
The Main Risks Of Investing In The Fund
There are several factors that could hurt fund performance, cause you to lose
money or make the fund perform less well than other investments.
The most important factor with this fund is how Latin American stock markets
perform -- something that depends on a large number of factors, including
economic, political and demographic trends. When Latin American stock prices
fall, you should expect the value of your investment to fall as well. The fact
that the fund concentrates on a single geographical region could affect fund
performance. For example, Latin American companies could be hurt by such factors
as regional economic downturns, currency devaluations, runaway inflation, shifts
in government policy or fluctuations in commodity prices. Similarly, the fact
that the fund is not diversified and may invest in relatively few companies
increases its risk, because any factors affecting a given company could affect
performance.
Emerging markets, including Latin American countries, tend to be more volatile
than developed markets, for reasons ranging from political and economic
uncertainties to poor regulation and liquidity to a higher risk that essential
information may be incomplete or wrong. Stock prices can be hurt by poor
management, shrinking product demand and other business risks. These may affect
single companies as well as groups of companies. In addition, changing currency
rates could add to the fund's investment losses or reduce its investment gains.
Other factors that could affect performance include:
o the managers could be wrong in their analysis of economic trends,
countries, industries, companies or other matters
o bond investments could be hurt by rising interest rates or declines in
credit quality
o at times, market conditions might make it hard to value some
investments or to get an attractive price for them
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This fund may interest investors who believe in the long-term growth potential
of Latin American stocks and can accept above-average risks.
40 | Kemper Latin America Fund
<PAGE>
Performance
The bar chart shows how the total returns for the fund's Class A shares have
varied from year to year, which may give some idea of risk. The chart doesn't
reflect sales loads; if it did, returns would be lower. The table shows how the
fund's returns over different periods average out.
For context, the table has a broad-based market index (which, unlike the fund,
has no fees or expenses). All figures on this page assume reinvestment of
dividends and distributions. As always, past performance is no guarantee of
future results.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31 each year Class A Shares
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT CONTAINS A BAR CHART HERE
BAR CHART DATA:
1998 -24.32
1999 50.98
Best quarter: 34.56%, Q4 '99 Worst quarter: -19.35%, Q3 '98
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31/1999
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since 12/31/98 Since 12/31/97
1 Year Life of Class
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A 42.39% 3.77%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B 46.65 4.55
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C 49.86 5.97
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index 61.85 2.13
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index: IFC Latin America Investable Return Index, a U.S. dollar-denominated
index comprised of Latin America's stock markets without reference to the
stock's availability to overseas investors.
In the chart, total returns from 1998 through 1999 would have been lower if
operating expenses hadn't been reduced.
The table includes the effects of maximum sales loads. In the table, total
returns from inception through 1999 would have been lower if operating expenses
hadn't been reduced.
41 | Kemper Latin America Fund
<PAGE>
How Much Investors Pay
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold
shares of the fund.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fee Table Class A Class B Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Fees, paid directly from your investment
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed On Purchases
(as % of offering price) 5.75% None None
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as % of
redemption proceeds) None* 4.00% 1.00%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Operating Expenses, deducted from fund assets
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Management Fee 1.25% 1.25% 1.25%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution (12b-1) Fee None 0.75 0.75
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Expenses** 17.92 17.85 18.69
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Annual Operating Expenses 19.17 19.85 20.69
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expense Reimbursement 16.98 16.78 17.65
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net Annual Operating Expenses*** 2.19 3.07 3.04
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The redemption of shares purchased at net asset value under the Large
Order NAV Purchase Privilege (see "Policies You Should Know About --
Policies about transactions") may be subject to a contingent deferred
sales charge of 1.00% if redeemed within one year of purchase and 0.50%
if redeemed during the second year following purchase.
** Includes costs of shareholder servicing, custody, accounting services
and similar expenses, which may vary with fund size and other factors.
"Other Expenses" are restated to reflect changes in certain
administrative and regulatory fees.
*** By contract, total operating expenses are capped at 2.19%, 3.07% and
3.04% for Class A, Class B and Class C shares, respectively, through
2/28/2001.
Based on the figures above (including one year of capped expenses in each
period), this example is designed to help you compare the expenses of each share
class to those of other funds. The example assumes operating expenses remain the
same and that you invested $10,000, earned 5% annual returns and reinvested all
dividends and distributions. This is only an example; actual expenses will be
different.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Example 1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, assuming you sold your shares at the end of each period
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A shares $784 $3,992 $6,355 $9,886
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B shares 710 4,078 6,493 9,900
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C shares 407 3,890 6,437 10,031
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, assuming you kept your shares
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A shares $784 $3,992 $6,355 $9,886
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B shares 310 3,778 6,293 9,900
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C shares 307 3,890 6,437 10,031
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
42 | Kemper Latin America Fund
<PAGE>
THE INVESTMENT ADVISOR
The fund's investment advisor is Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc., 345 Park
Avenue, New York, NY. Scudder Kemper has more than 80 years of experience
managing mutual funds and currently has more than $290 billion in assets under
management.
Scudder Kemper takes a team approach to asset management, bringing together
professionals from many investment disciplines. Supporting each team are Scudder
Kemper's many economists, research analysts, traders and other investment
specialists, located across the United States and around the world.
For serving as the fund's investment advisor, Scudder Kemper receives a
management fee from the fund. For the most recent fiscal year, the actual amount
the fund paid in management fees was 0.00%* of average daily net assets.
* Reflecting the effect of expense limitations and/or fee waivers then in
effect.
[ICON]--------------------------------------------------------------------------
FUND MANAGERS
The following people handle the fund's day-to-day
management:
Tara C. Kenney Paul H. Rogers
Lead Portfolio Manager o Began investment career
o Began investment career in 1985
in 1984 o Joined the advisor in
o Joined the advisor in 1995 1994
o Joined the fund team o Joined the fund team
in 1997 in 1997
Edmund B. Games, Jr.
o Began investment career
in 1960
o Joined the advisor in 1960
o Joined the fund team
in 1997
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The fund is managed by a team of investment professionals who work together to
develop the fund's investment strategies.
43 | Kemper Latin America Fund
<PAGE>
TICKER SYMBOLS CLASS: A) KNEAX B) KNEBX C) KNECX
Kemper
New Europe Fund
FUND GOAL The fund seeks long-term capital appreciation.
44 | Kemper New Europe Fund
<PAGE>
The Fund's Main Strategy
The fund invests at least 65% of total assets in European common stocks and
other equities (equities that are traded mainly on European markets or are
issued by companies that are based in Europe or do more than half of their
business there). The fund generally focuses on common stocks of companies in the
more established markets of Western and Southern Europe such as Finland,
Germany, France, Italy, Spain and Portugal.
In choosing stocks, the portfolio managers use a combination of three analytical
disciplines:
Bottom-up research. The managers look for individual companies with new or
dominant products or technologies, among other factors.
Growth orientation. The managers look for stocks that seem to offer the
potential for sustainable above-average growth of revenues or earnings relative
to each stock's own market and whose market prices are reasonable in light of
their potential growth.
Top-down analysis. The managers consider the outlook for economic, political,
industrial and demographic trends and how they may affect various countries,
sectors and industries.
The managers may favor securities from different countries and industries at
different times, while still maintaining variety in terms of the countries and
industries represented.
The fund will normally sell a stock when it has reached a target price, the
managers believe other investments offer better opportunities or when adjusting
its exposure to a given country or industry.
[ICON]--------------------------------------------------------------------------
OTHER INVESTMENTS
While most of the fund's equities are common stocks, some may be other types of
equities, such as convertible stocks or preferred stocks. The fund may invest up
to 20% of total assets in European debt securities of any credit quality,
including junk bonds (i.e., grade BB and below). Compared to investment-grade
bonds, junk bonds may pay higher yields and have higher volatility and risk of
default.
45 | Kemper New Europe Fund
<PAGE>
The Main Risks Of Investing In The Fund
There are several factors that could hurt fund performance, cause you to lose
money or make the fund perform less well than other investments.
The most important factor with this fund is how European stock markets perform
- -- something that depends on a large number of factors, including economic,
political and demographic trends. When European stock prices fall, you should
expect the value of your investment to fall as well.
The fact that the fund focuses on a single geographical region could affect fund
performance. For example, European companies could be hurt by such factors as
regional economic downturns or difficulties with the European Economic and
Monetary Union (EMU). Eastern European companies can be very sensitive to
political and economic developments. The fact that the fund is not diversified
and may invest in relatively few companies increases its risk, because any
factors affecting a given company could affect performance.
European stocks may at times be more volatile than their U.S. counterparts, for
reasons ranging from political and economic uncertainties to a higher risk that
essential information may be incomplete or wrong. Because a stock represents
ownership in its issuer, stock prices can be hurt by poor management, shrinking
product demand and other business risks. These may affect single companies as
well as groups of companies. In addition, changing currency rates could add to
the fund's investment losses or reduce its investment gains.
Other factors that could affect performance include:
o the managers could be wrong in their analysis of economic trends,
countries, industries, companies or other matters
o growth stocks may be out of favor for certain periods
o bond investments could be hurt by rising interest rates or declines in
credit quality
o at times, market conditions might make it hard to value some
investments or to get an attractive price for them
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This fund may appeal to investors who seek long-term growth and want to gain
exposure to Europe's established markets.
46 | Kemper New Europe Fund
<PAGE>
Performance
The bar chart shows how the total returns for the fund's Class M shares have
varied from year to year, which may give some idea of risk. The chart doesn't
reflect sales loads; if it did, returns would be lower. The table shows how the
fund's returns over different periods average out.
The performance of Class M shares shown in the bar chart and performance table
reflects performance from when the fund was a closed-end fund (through
09/03/99). Because the fund had no daily sales and redemptions, its performance
as a closed-end fund may have been higher than if it had operated as an open-end
fund.
For context, the table has a broad-based market index (which, unlike the fund,
has no fees or expenses). All figures on this page assume reinvestment of
dividends and distributions. As always, past performance is no guarantee of
future results.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31 each year Class M Shares
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT CONTAINS A BAR CHART HERE
BAR CHART DATA:
1991 3.06
1992 -9.59
1993 25.62
1994 -0.27
1995 18.97
1996 34.38
1997 20.03
1998 34.39
1999 51.83
Best quarter: 37.93%, Q4 '99 Worst quarter: -16.81%, Q3 '98
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31/1999
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since
Since 12/31/98 Since 12/31/94 2/16/90 Life
1 Year 5 Years of Class
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class M 51.83% 31.39% 15.93%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index 16.23 22.54 15.05*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Index: The Morgan Stanley Capital International Europe Equity Index, an
unmanaged index that is generally representative of the equity securities of the
European markets.
* Index comparison begins 02/28/90.
Class A, B and C shares do not have a full calendar year of operations and their
performance is not shown above. The performance of Class M shares does not
reflect any sales charges. The performance of the other classes is subject to
sales charges and would be lower.
47 | Kemper New Europe Fund
<PAGE>
How Much Investors Pay
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold
shares of the fund.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fee Table Class A Class B Class C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Fees, paid directly from your investment
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) Imposed 5.75% None None None
On Purchases (as % of offering price)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) None* 4.00% 1.00% None
(as % of redemption proceeds)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Redemption fee (as % of amount redeemed, None None None 2.00%**
if applicable)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exchange Fee None None None 2.00%**
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Operating Expenses, deducted from fund assets
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Management Fee 0.75% 0.75% 0.75% 0.75%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution (12b-1) Fee None 0.75 0.75 None
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Other Expenses*** 1.05 1.20 1.20 0.70
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Annual Operating Expenses**** 1.80 2.70 2.70 1.45
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* The redemption of shares purchased at net asset value under the Large
Order NAV Purchase Privilege (see "Policies You Should Know About --
Policies about transactions") may be subject to a contingent deferred
sales charge of 1.00% if redeemed within one year of purchase and 0.50%
if redeemed during the second year following purchase.
** A 2% redemption fee, which is retained by the fund, is imposed upon
redemptions or exchanges of shares held less than one year, with
limited exceptions (see "Policies You Should Know About -- Redemption
Fee).
*** Includes costs of shareholder servicing, custody, accounting services
and similar expenses, which may vary with fund size and other factors.
**** The fund was reorganized from a closed-end fund to an open-end fund on
September 3, 1999. The fees and expenses of open-end funds are, in many
cases, different than those of closed-end funds. Accordingly, the
expense ratios shown above are estimated for the fund's current fiscal
year ending October 31, 2001, based on the fund's current fee schedule
and expenses incurred by the fund during its most recent fiscal year
adjusted for any open-end related expenses. By contract, total
operating expenses are capped at 1.80%, 2.70% and 2.70% for Class A,
Class B and Class C shares, respectively, through 2/28/2001.
48 | Kemper New Europe Fund
<PAGE>
Based on the figures on the previous page (including one year of capped expenses
in each period except for Class M shares), this example is designed to help you
compare the expenses of each share class to those of other funds. The example
assumes operating expenses remain the same and that you invested $10,000, earned
5% annual returns and reinvested all dividends and distributions. This is only
an example; actual expenses will be different.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Example 1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, assuming you sold your shares at the end of each period
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A shares $747 $1,109 $1,494 $2,569
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B shares 673 1,138 1,630 2,615
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C shares 373 838 1,430 3,032
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class M shares 345 649 976 1,900
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, assuming you kept your shares
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A shares $747 $1,109 $1,494 $2,569
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B shares 273 838 1,430 2,615
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C shares 273 838 1,430 3,032
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class M shares 345 649 976 1,900
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
49 | Kemper New Europe Fund
<PAGE>
THE INVESTMENT ADVISOR
The fund's investment advisor is Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc., 345 Park
Avenue, New York, NY. Scudder Kemper has more than 80 years of experience
managing mutual funds and currently has more than $290 billion in assets under
management.
Scudder Kemper takes a team approach to asset management, bringing together
professionals from many investment disciplines. Supporting each team are Scudder
Kemper's many economists, research analysts, traders and other investment
specialists, located across the United States and around the world.
For serving as the fund's investment advisor, Scudder Kemper receives a
management fee from the fund. For the most recent fiscal year, the actual amount
the fund paid in management fees was 0.96% of average daily net assets.
[ICON]--------------------------------------------------------------------------
FUND MANAGERS
The following people handle the fund's day-to-day
management:
Carol L. Franklin Joan R. Gregory
Lead Portfolio Manager o Began investment career
o Began investment career in 1989
in 1975 o Joined the advisor in
o Joined the advisor in 1981 1992
o Joined the fund team o Joined the fund team
in 1990 in 1992
Nicholas Bratt Marc Slendebroek
o Began investment career o Began investment career
in 1974 in 1990
o Joined the advisor in 1976 o Joined the advisor in
o Joined the fund team 1994
in 1999 o Joined the fund team
in 1998
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The fund is managed by a team of investment professionals who work together to
develop the fund's investment strategies.
50 | Kemper New Europe Fund
<PAGE>
Other Policies And Risks
While the previous pages describe the main points of each fund's strategy and
risks, there are a few other issues to know about:
o Although major changes tend to be infrequent, each fund's Board could
change that fund's investment goal without seeking shareholder
approval.
o As a temporary defensive measure, any of these funds could shift up to
100% of assets into investments such as money market securities. This
could prevent losses, but would mean that the fund would not be
pursuing its goal.
o Scudder Kemper establishes a security's credit quality when it buys the
security, using independent ratings or, for unrated securities, its own
credit determination. When ratings don't agree, a fund may use the
higher rating. If a security's credit quality falls, the advisor will
determine whether selling it would be in the shareholders' best
interests.
o The funds may trade securities more actively than many funds, which
could mean higher expenses (thus lowering return) and higher taxable
distributions.
o Although the managers are permitted to use various types of derivatives
(contracts whose value is based on, for example, indices, currencies or
securities), the managers don't intend to use them as principal
investments, and might not use them at all. With derivatives there is a
risk that they could produce disproportionate losses.
Keep in mind that there is no assurance that any mutual fund will achieve its
goal.
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This prospectus doesn't tell you about every policy or risk of investing in a
fund. For more information, request a copy of the Statement of Additional
Information (see back cover).
51 | Other Policies And Risks
<PAGE>
Euro conversion
Funds that invest in foreign securities could be affected by accounting
differences, changes in tax treatment or other issues related to the conversion
of certain European currencies into the euro, which is already underway. The
investment advisor is working to address euro-related issues as they occur and
has been notified that other key service providers are taking similar steps.
Still, there's some risk that this problem could materially affect a fund's
operation (including its ability to calculate net asset value and to handle
purchases and redemptions), its investments or securities markets in general.
51 | Other Policies And Risks
<PAGE>
Financial Highlights
These tables are designed to help you understand each fund's financial
performance in recent years. The figures in the first part of each table are for
a single share. The total return figures represent the percentage that an
investor in a particular fund would have earned (or lost), assuming all
dividends and distributions were reinvested. This information has been audited
by Ernst & Young LLP (except Kemper Global Discovery Fund, which has been
audited by Pricewaterhouse-Coopers LLP), whose reports, along with each fund's
financial statements, are included in that fund's annual report (see
"Shareholder reports" on the back cover).
Kemper Asian Growth Fund
Class A
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended November 30, 1999 1998 1997 1996(a)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period $5.41 $6.65 $10.04 $9.50
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (.01)(b) .11 .08 --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain
(loss) on investment transactions 2.65 (1.27) (3.47) .54
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations 2.64 (1.16) (3.39) .54
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less distributions from net investment
income -- (.08) -- --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $8.05 $5.41 $6.65 $10.04
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (%) (d) 48.80(c) (17.66)(c) (33.76)(c) 5.68**
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets and supplemental data
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets at end of period ($
thousands) 12,685 4,047 3,549 827
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of expenses before expense
reductions (%) 3.35 2.65 2.62 1.46*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of expenses after expense
reductions (%) 1.76 1.80 1.60 1.46*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of net investment income (loss)
(%) (.17) 2.05 .97 .74*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 80 131 155 74*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) For the period from October 21, 1996 (commencement of operations) to
November 30, 1996.
(b) Based on monthly average shares outstanding during the period.
(c) Total return would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced.
(d) Total return does not reflect the effect of sales charges.
* Annualized
** Not annualized
53 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Class B
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended November 30, 1999 1998 1997 1996(a)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period $5.34 $6.58 $10.03 $9.50
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (.02)(b) .06 -- --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain
(loss) on investment transactions 2.59 (1.28) (3.45) .53
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations 2.57 (1.22) (3.45) .53
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less distributions from net investment
income -- (.02) -- --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $7.91 $5.34 $6.58 $10.03
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (%) (d) 48.13(c) (18.65)(c)(34.40)(c)5.58**
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets and supplemental data
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets at end of period ($
thousands) 8,674 3,035 2,545 941
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of expenses before expense
reductions (%) 4.25 4.29 3.51 2.34*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of expenses after expense
reductions (%) 1.91 2.78 2.57 2.34*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of net investment income (loss)
(%) (.32) 1.07 -- (.14)*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 80 131 155 74*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) For the period from October 21, 1996 (commencement of operations) to
November 30, 1996.
(b) Based on monthly average shares outstanding during the period.
(c) Total return would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced.
(d) Total return does not reflect the effect of sales charges.
* Annualized
** Not annualized
54 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Class C
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended November 30, 1999 1998 1997 1996(a)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period $5.35 $6.60 $10.03 $9.50
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (.08)(b) .05 -- --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain
(loss) on investment transactions 2.56 (1.28) (3.43) .53
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations 2.48 (1.23) (3.43) .53
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less distributions from net investment
income -- (.02) -- --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $7.83 $5.35 $6.60 $10.03
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (%) (d) 46.36(c) (18.72)(c)(34.20)(c)5.58**
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets and supplemental data
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets at end of period ($
thousands) 1,182 334 304 180
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of expenses, before expense
reductions (%) 5.17 4.56 3.55 2.34*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of expenses, after expense
reductions (%) 2.81 2.71 2.54 2.34*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of net investment income (loss)
(%) (1.22) 1.14 .03 (.14)*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 80 131 155 74*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) For the period from October 21, 1996 (commencement of operations) to
November 30, 1996.
(b) Based on monthly average shares outstanding during the period.
(c) Total return would have been lower had certain expenses not been
reduced.
(d) Total return does not reflect the effect of sales charges.
* Annualized
** Not annualized
55 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Kemper Emerging Markets Growth Fund
Class A
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999(a) 1998(b)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period $7.80 $9.50
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (.02)(a) .03
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 1.71 (1.73)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations 1.69 (1.70)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $9.49 $7.80
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (not annualized) (%) 21.67 (17.89)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, before expense reductions (%) 10.23 22.38
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, net (%) 2.19 2.28
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (%) (.22) .40
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999(a) 1998(b)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period $7.74 $9.50
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment loss (.09)(a) (.01)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 1.68 (1.75)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations 1.59 (1.76)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $9.33 $7.74
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (not annualized) (%) 20.54 (18.53)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, before expense reductions (%) 11.25 24.06
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, net (%) 3.06 3.18
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (%) (.93) (.50)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) Per share data was determined based on average shares outstanding.
(b) For the period from January 9, 1998 (commencement of operations) to October
31, 1998.
56 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Class C
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999(a) 1998(b)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period $7.76 $9.50
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (.10)(a) .03
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 1.69 (1.71)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations 1.59 (1.74)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $9.35 $7.76
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (not annualized) (%) 20.49 (18.32)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, before expense reductions (%) 11.55 24.03
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, net (%) 3.03 3.15
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (%) (1.13) (.47)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Supplemental data for all classes
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999(a) 1998(b)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets at end of period $3,493,300 1,771,222
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate (annualized) (%) 78 69
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) Per share data was determined based on average shares outstanding.
(b) For the period from January 9, 1998 (commencement of operations) to October
31, 1998.
Note: Total return does not reflect the effect of any sales charges. Scudder
Kemper Investments, Inc. has agreed to temporarily waive its management fee and
absorb certain operating expenses of the fund.
57 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Kemper Global Blue Chip Fund
Class A
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999(a) 1998(b)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period $10.21 $9.50
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income .03(a) .05
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain 1.64 .66
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations 1.67 .71
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $11.88 $10.21
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (not annualized) (%) 16.26 7.47
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets (annualized)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses before expense reductions (%) 3.35 6.06
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, net (%) 1.80 1.80
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (%) .24 .92
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999(a) 1998(b)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period $10.13 $9.50
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (.07)(a) --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain 1.61 .63
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations 1.54 .63
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $11.67 $10.13
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (not annualized) (%) 15.10 6.63
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets (annualized)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses before expense reductions (%) 4.54 7.69
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, net (%) 2.68 2.68
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (%) (.64) .04
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) Per share data was determined based on monthly average shares outstanding
during the period.
(b) For the period ended December 31, 1997 (commencement of operations) to
October 31, 1998.
58 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Class C
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999(a) 1998(b)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period $10.14 $9.50
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (.07) --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain 1.62 .64
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations 1.55 .64
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $11.69 $10.14
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (not annualized) (%) 15.19 6.74
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets (annualized)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses before expense reductions (%) 4.85 7.66
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, net (%) 2.65 2.65
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (%) (.61) .07
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Supplemental data for all classes
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999(a) 1998(b)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets at end of period $22,977,660 9,539,623
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate (annualized) (%) 68 84
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) Per share data was determined based on monthly average shares outstanding
during the period.
(b) For the period ended December 31, 1997 (commencement of operations) to
October 31, 1998.
Note: Total return does not reflect the effect of any sales charges. Scudder
Kemper Investments, Inc. has agreed to temporarily waive its management fee and
absorb certain operating expenses of the fund. The Ratios to Average Net Assets
are computed without this expense waiver or absorption.
59 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Kemper Global Discovery Fund
Class A
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999 1998(a)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period $19.78 $23.98
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (b) (.24) (.09)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments 8.51 (4.11)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations 8.27 (4.20)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $28.05 $19.78
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (%) (c)(d) 41.61 (17.51)**
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios and Supplemental Data
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets, end of period ($ millions) 55 11
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of operating expenses to average daily net assets
(%) 2.01 1.95*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of operating expenses, before expense reductions,
to average daily net assets (%) 2.26 2.20*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of net investment income to average daily
net assets (%) (.98) (1.00)*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 64 41
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) For the period April 16, 1998 (commencement of sales of Class A shares) to
October 31, 1998.
(b) Based on monthly average shares outstanding during the period.
(c) Total return does not reflect the effect of any sales charges.
(d) Total return would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced.
* Annualized
** Not annualized
60 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Class B
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999 1998(a)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period $19.70 $23.98
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (b) (.43) (.18)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments 8.42 (4.10)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations 7.99 (4.28)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $27.69 $19.70
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (%) (c)(d) 40.43 (17.85)**
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios and Supplemental Data
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets, end of period ($ millions) 27 6
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of operating expenses to average daily net assets
(%) 2.83 2.83*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of operating expenses, before expense reductions,
to average daily net assets (%) 3.44 3.13*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of net investment income to average daily
net assets (%) (1.81) (1.87)*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 64 41
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) For the period April 16, 1998 (commencement of sales of Class B shares) to
October 31, 1998.
(b) Based on monthly average shares outstanding during the period.
(c) Total return does not reflect the effect of any sales charges.
(d) Total return would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced.
* Annualized
** Not annualized
61 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Class C
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999 1998(a)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period $19.70 $23.98
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (b) (.43) (.17)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments 8.44 (4.11)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations 8.01 (4.28)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $27.71 $19.70
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (%) (c)(d) 40.41 (17.85)**
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios and Supplemental Data
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets, end of period ($ millions) 8 2
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of operating expenses to average daily net assets
(%) 2.80 2.80*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of operating expenses, before expense reductions,
to average daily net assets (%) 3.00 3.23*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of net investment income to average daily
net assets (%) (1.79) (1.88)*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 64 41
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) For the period April 16, 1998 (commencement of sales of Class C shares) to
October 31, 1998.
(b) Based on monthly average shares outstanding during the period.
(c) Total return does not reflect the effect of any sales charges.
(d) Total return would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced.
* Annualized
** Not annualized
62 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Kemper Global Income Fund
Class A
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended December 31, 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning
of period $8.94 $8.58 $8.97 $9.05 $8.55
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) .32(a) .37(a) .48(a) .52(a) .61
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investment
transactions (.88) .50 (.33) (.02) 1.05
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations (.56) .87 .15 .50 1.66
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less distributions from:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (.13) (.40) (.47) (.58) (1.16)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tax return of capital (.27) (.11) (.07) -- --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total distributions (.40) (.51) (.54) (.58) (1.16)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $7.98 $8.94 $8.58 $8.97 $9.05
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (%) (b) (6.38) 10.48 1.80 5.87 19.89
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets and supplemental data
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets, end of period
($ in thousands) 49,407 69,913 72,145 86,240 102,988
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of expenses before
expense reductions (%) 1.68 1.58 1.32 1.48 1.34
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of expenses after
expense reductions (%) 1.67 1.58 1.32 1.48 1.34
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of net investment
income (loss) (%) 3.80 4.31 5.56 5.77 6.43
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 165 313 283 276 220
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) Based on monthly average shares outstanding during the period.
(b) Total return does not reflect the effect of sales charges.
63 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Class B
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended December 31, 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning
of period $8.96 $8.60 $9.00 $9.09 $8.56
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) .26(a) .31(a) .41(a) .46(a) .56
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investment
transactions (.88) .49 (.33) (.02) 1.05
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations (.62) .80 .08 .44 1.61
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less distributions from:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (.11) (.34) (.42) (.53) (1.08)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tax return of capital (.23) (.10) (.06) -- --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total distributions (.34) (.44) (.48) (.53) (1.08)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $8.00 $8.96 $8.60 $9.00 $9.09
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (%) (b) (6.98) 9.56 1.03 5.11 19.21
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets and supplemental data
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets, end of period
($ in thousands) 6,955 12,536 25,735 44,678 49,692
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of expenses before
expense reductions (%) 2.37 2.32 2.18 2.14 1.98
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of expenses after
expense reductions (%) 2.36 2.32 2.18 2.14 1.98
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of net investment
income (loss) (%) 3.11 3.57 4.70 5.11 5.79
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 165 313 283 276 220
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) Based on monthly average shares outstanding during the period.
(b) Total return does not reflect the effect of sales charges.
64 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Class C
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended December 31, 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning
of period $8.99 $8.62 $9.02 $9.09 $8.56
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) .27(a) .32(a) .42(a) .48(a) .57
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investment
transactions (.90) .49 (.33) (.02) 1.05
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations (.63) .81 .09 .46 1.62
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less distributions from:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (.11) (.34) (.43) (.53) (1.09)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tax return of capital (.24) (.10) (.06) -- --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total distributions (.35) (.44) (.49) (.53) (1.09)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $8.01 $8.99 $8.62 $9.02 $9.09
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (%) (b) (7.06) 9.72 1.09 5.31 19.26
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets and supplemental data
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets, end of period
($ in thousands) 1,340 2,346 1,149 821 253
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of expenses before
expense reductions (%) 2.32 2.13 2.11 2.06 2.06
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of expenses after
expense reductions (%) 2.31 2.13 2.11 2.06 2.06
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of net investment
income (loss) (%) 3.16 3.76 4.77 5.19 5.71
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 165 313 283 276 220
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Notes:
(a) Based on monthly average shares outstanding during the period.
(b) Total return does not reflect the effect of sales charges.
65 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Kemper International Fund
Class A
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of year $12.10 $12.68 $11.96 $10.59 $11.13
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (.01) .04 -- .04 .07
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain 2.57 .01 1.52 1.50 .05
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations 2.56 .05 1.52 1.54 .12
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less dividends:
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution from net
investment income -- (.08) (.12) (.12) --
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution from net
realized gain (1.81) (.55) (.68) (.05) (.66)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total dividends (1.81) (.63) (.80) (.17) (.66)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year $12.85 $12.10 $12.68 $11.96 $10.59
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (%) 23.47(a) .45 13.49 14.70 1.69
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, before expense reductions
(%) 1.59 1.64 1.57 1.64 1.57
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, net (%) 1.59 1.64 1.57 1.64 1.57
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (%) (.12) .36 .16 .34 .83
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
66 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Class B
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of year $11.90 $12.50 $11.81 $10.46 $11.09
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (.11) (.08) (.12) (.06) (.02)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain 2.52 .03 1.51 1.47 .05
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations 2.41 (.05) 1.39 1.41 .03
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less dividends:
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution from net
investment income -- -- (.02) (.01) --
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution from net
realized gain (1.81) (.55) (.68) (.05) (.66)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total dividends (1.81) (.55) (.70) (.06) (.66)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $12.50 $11.90 $12.50 $11.81 $10.46
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (%) 22.50(a) (.37) 12.32 13.59 .84
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, before expense
reductions (%) 2.44 2.62 2.57 2.53 2.50
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, net (%) 2.43 2.62 2.57 2.53 2.50
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (%) (.96) (.62) (.84) (.55) (.10)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) If the Advisor had not reimbursed the fund, the total return for the
year ended October 31, 1999 would have been lower.
67 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Class C
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period $11.91 $12.51 $11.81 $10.46 $11.09
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (.10) (.08) (.09) (.06) (.02)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain 2.51 .03 1.49 1.47 .05
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations 2.41 (.05) 1.40 1.41 .03
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less dividends:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution from net
investment income -- -- (.02) (.01) --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution from net
realized gain (1.81) (.55) (.68) (.05) (.66)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total dividends (1.81) (.55) (.70) (.06) (.66)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $12.51 $11.91 $12.51 $11.81 $10.46
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (%) 22.49(a) (.37) 12.45 13.59 .84
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, before expense
reductions (%) 2.33 2.55 2.49 2.50 2.50
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, net (%) 2.32 2.55 2.49 2.50 2.50
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (%) (.85) (.55) (.76) (.52) (.10)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Supplemental data for all classes
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets at end of year
(in thousands) $658,211 604,684 588,069 472,243 364,708
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 140 105 76 104 114
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) If the Advisor had not reimbursed the fund, the total return for the year
ended October 31, 1999 would have been lower.
Note: Total return does not reflect the effect of any sales charges. Per share
data were determined based on average shares outstanding for the years ended
1995, 1996 and 1998, respectively.
68 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Kemper Latin America Fund
Class A
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999(a) 1998(b)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period $7.31 $9.50
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income .07 .06
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) .80 (2.25)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations .87 (2.19)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution from net investment income (.06) --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $8.12 $7.31
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (not annualized) (%) 12.01 (23.05)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets (annualized)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, before expense reductions (%) 9.16 12.75
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, net (%) 2.19 2.21
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (%) .87 1.38
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999(a) 1998(b)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period $7.26 $9.50
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (.01) .04
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) .81 (2.28)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations .80 (2.24)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $8.06 $7.26
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (not annualized) (%) 11.02 (23.58)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets (annualized)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, before expense reductions (%) 9.93 14.38
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, net (%) 3.06 3.09
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (%) (.13) .50
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) Per share data was determined based on monthly average shares outstanding
during the period.
(b) For the period from December 31, 1997 (commencement of operations) to
October 31, 1998.
69 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Class C
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999(a) 1998(b)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period $7.26 $9.50
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income -- .04
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) .80 (2.28)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations .80 (2.24)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $8.06 $7.26
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (not annualized) (%) 11.02 (23.58)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets (annualized)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, before expense reductions (%) 10.73 14.34
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses, net (%) 3.04 3.06
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (%) (.02) .53
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Supplemental data for all classes
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999(a) 1998(b)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets at end of period $2,462,031 1,460,498
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 76 55
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) Per share data was determined based on monthly average shares outstanding
during the period.
(b) For the period from December 31, 1997 (commencement of operations) to
October 31, 1998.
Note: Total return does not reflect the effect of any sales charges. Scudder
Kemper Investments, Inc. has agreed to temporarily waive its management fee and
absorb certain operating expenses of the fund.
70 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Kemper New Europe Fund
Class A
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999(a)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period $14.27
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (b) (.03)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain .63
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations .60
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $14.87
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (not annualized) (%) (c) 4.20
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets (annualized)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses (%) 1.63
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (%) (1.21)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999(a)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period $13.91
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (b) (.05)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain .63
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations .58
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $14.49
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (not annualized) (%) (c) 4.17
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets (annualized)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses (%) 2.36
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (%) (1.95)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) For the period September 3, 1999 (commencement of Class) to October 31,
1999.
(b) Based on monthly average shares outstanding during the period.
(c) Total investment returns reflect changes in net asset value per share during
each period and assume that dividends and capital gains distributions, if
any, were reinvested.
71 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Class C
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999(a)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning of period $14.02
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (b) (.04)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized gain .64
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations .60
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $14.62
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (not annualized) (%) (c) 4.28
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets (annualized)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses (%) 2.40
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (%) (1.99)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) For the period September 3, 1999 (commencement of Class) to October 31,
1999.
(b) Based on monthly average shares outstanding during the period.
(c) Total investment returns reflect changes in net asset value per share during
each period and assume that dividends and capital gains distributions, if
any, were reinvested.
Note: Total return does not reflect the effect of any sales charges. Prior to
September 3, 1999, the fund operated as a closed-end investment company. On
September 3, 1999, the fund became an open-end investment company and offered
three additional classes of shares.
72 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Class M
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, beginning
of period $22.23 $19.96 $16.60 $13.24 $11.61
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (a) (.00)(c) (.00) (.01) .05 .05
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investment
transactions 4.62 4.47 3.43 3.36 1.58
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment operations 4.62 4.47 3.42 3.41 1.63
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less distributions from:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (.03) (.09) (.06) (.05) --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized gains on
investment transactions (6.36) (2.11) -- -- --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total distributions (6.39) (2.20) (.06) (.05) --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Redemption fees .13 -- -- -- --
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $20.59 $22.23 $19.96 $16.60 $13.24
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total return (%)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Per share net asset value (%)
(b)(d) 27.95 27.70 20.66 25.92 14.04
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios to average net assets
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses (%) 1.68(e) 1.41 1.49 1.51 1.62
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income (loss) (%) (.00) (.01) (.03) .31 .39
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Supplemental data for all classes
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Years ended October 31, 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets at end of period ($
millions) $295 359 320 266 213
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 57.8 41.4 44.7 35.3 32.4
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(a) Based on monthly average shares outstanding during the period.
(b) Total investment returns reflect changes in net asset value per share during
each period and assume that dividends and capital gains distributions, if
any, were reinvested.
(c) Net investment income per share includes non-recurring dividend income
amounting to $.08 per share.
(d) The performance of Class M shares reflects performance of the fund in
closed-end form. The fund's performance may have been lower if it had
operated as an open-end fund during these periods.
(e) Includes reorganization expense ratio of .20%.
Note: Total return does not reflect the effect of any sales charges.
73 | Financial Highlights
<PAGE>
Investing In The Funds
The following pages tell you about many of the services, choices and benefits of
being a Kemper Funds shareholder. You'll also find information on how to check
the status of your account using the method that's most convenient for you.
You can find out more about the topics covered here by speaking with your
financial representative or a representative of your workplace retirement plan
or other investment provider.
<PAGE>
Choosing A Share Class
In this prospectus, there are three share classes for each fund. Each class has
its own fees and expenses, offering you a choice of cost structures.
For Kemper New Europe Fund, Class M shares represent the initial shares of the
fund and are no longer offered. Class M shares are not subject to a contingent
deferred sales charge or a Rule 12b-1 distribution fee. Class M shares are
subject to a 2% fee on all redemptions (including redemptions in kind) and
exchanges. Class M shares will automatically convert to Class A shares on
September 3, 2000.
Before you invest, take a moment to look over the characteristics of each share
class, so that you can be sure to choose the class that's right for you. You may
want to ask your financial representative to help you with this decision.
We describe each share class in detail on the following pages. But first, you
may want to look at the table below, which gives you a brief comparison of the
main features of each class.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Classes and features Points to help you compare
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A
o Sales charges of up to 5.75%, o Some investors may be able to
charged when you buy shares reduce or eliminate their sales
charges; see page 84
o In most cases, no charges when you
sell shares o Total annual expenses are lower
than those for Class B or Class C
o No distribution fee
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B
o No charges when you buy shares o The deferred sales charge rate
falls to zero after six years
o Deferred sales charge of up to
4.00%, charged when you sell shares o Shares automatically convert to
you bought within the last six years Class A six years after purchase,
which means lower annual expenses
o 0.75% distribution fee going forward
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C
o No charges when you buy shares o The deferred sales charge rate is
lower, but your shares never convert
o Deferred sales charge of 1.00%, to Class A, so annual expenses
charged when you sell shares you remain higher
bought within the last year
o 0.75% distribution fee
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
75 | Choosing A Share Class
<PAGE>
Class A shares
Class A shares have a sales charge that varies with the amount you invest:
All funds except Kemper Global Income Fund
Sales charge Sales charge
as a % of as a % of your
Your investment offering price net investment
- ---------------------------------------------------------
Up to $50,000 5.75% 6.10%
- ---------------------------------------------------------
$50,000-$99,999 4.50 4.71
- ---------------------------------------------------------
$100,000-$249,999 3.50 3.63
- ---------------------------------------------------------
$250,000-$499,999 2.60 2.67
- ---------------------------------------------------------
$500,000-$999,999 2.00 2.04
- ---------------------------------------------------------
$1 million or more See page 85
- ---------------------------------------------------------
Kemper Global Income Fund
Sales charge Sales charge
as a % of as a % of your
Your investment offering price net investment
- ---------------------------------------------------------
Up to $100,000 4.50% 4.71%
- ---------------------------------------------------------
$100,000-$249,999 3.50 3.63
- ---------------------------------------------------------
$250,000-$499,999 2.60 2.67
- ---------------------------------------------------------
$500,000-$999,999 2.00 2.04
- ---------------------------------------------------------
$1 million or more See page 85
- ---------------------------------------------------------
The offering price includes the sales charge.
76 | Choosing A Share Class
<PAGE>
You may be able to lower your Class A sales charges if:
o you plan to invest at least $50,000 ($100,000 for Kemper Global Income
Fund) over the next 24 months ("letter of intent")
o the amount of Kemper shares you already own (including shares in
certain other Kemper funds) plus the amount you're investing now is at
least $50,000 ($100,000 for Kemper Global Income Fund) ("cumulative
discount")
o you are investing a total of $50,000 ($100,000 for Kemper Global Income
Fund) or more in several Kemper funds at once ("combined purchases")
The point of these three features is to let you count investments made at other
times for purposes of calculating your present sales charge. Any time you can
use the privileges to "move" your investment into a lower sales charge category
in the table above, it's generally beneficial for you to do so. You can take
advantage of these methods by filling in the appropriate sections of your
application or by speaking with your financial representative.
77 | Choosing A Share Class
<PAGE>
You may be able to buy Class A shares without sales charges when you are:
o reinvesting dividends or distributions
o investing through certain workplace retirement plans
o participating in an investment advisory program under which you pay a
fee to an investment advisor or other firm for portfolio management
services
There are a number of additional provisions that apply in order to be eligible
for a sales charge waiver. The fund may waive the sales charges for investors in
other situations as well. Your financial representative or Kemper can answer
your questions and help you determine if you are eligible.
If you're investing $1 million or more, either as a lump sum or through one of
the sales charge reduction features described on the previous page, you may be
eligible to buy Class A shares without sales charges. However, you may be
charged a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) of 1.00% on any shares you
sell within the first year of owning them, and a similar charge of 0.50% on
shares you sell within the second year of owning them. This CDSC is waived under
certain circumstances (see "Policies You Should Know About"). Your financial
representative or Kemper can answer your questions and help you determine if
you're eligible.
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class A shares may make sense for long-term investors, especially those who are
eligible for reduced or eliminated sales charges.
78 | Choosing A Share Class
<PAGE>
Class B shares
With Class B shares, you pay no up-front sales charges to the fund. Class B
shares do have a 12b-1 plan, under which a distribution fee of 0.75% is deducted
from fund assets each year. This means the annual expenses for Class B shares
are somewhat higher (and their performance correspondingly lower) compared to
Class A shares, which don't have a 12b-1 fee. After six years, Class B shares
automatically convert to Class A, which has the net effect of lowering the
annual expenses from the seventh year on.
Class B shares have a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC). This charge
declines over the years you own shares, and disappears completely after six
years of ownership. But for any shares you sell within those six years, you may
be charged as follows:
Year after you bought shares CDSC on shares you sell
- -----------------------------------------------------------
First year 4.00%
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Second or third year 3.00
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Fourth or fifth year 2.00
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Sixth year 1.00
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Seventh year and later None
(automatic conversion to
Class A)
- -----------------------------------------------------------
This CDSC is waived under certain circumstances (see "Policies You Should Know
About"). Your financial representative or Kemper can answer your questions and
help you determine if you're eligible.
While Class B shares don't have any front-end sales charges, their higher annual
expenses (due to 12b-1 fees) mean that over the years you could end up paying
more than the equivalent of the maximum allowable front-end sales charge.
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class B shares are designed for long-term investors who prefer to see all of
their investment go to work right away, and can accept somewhat higher annual
expenses.
79 | Choosing A Share Class
<PAGE>
Class C shares
Like Class B shares, Class C shares have no up-front sales charges and have a
12b-1 plan under which a distribution fee of 0.75% is deducted from fund assets
each year. Because of this fee, the annual expenses for Class C shares are
similar to those of Class B shares, but higher than those for Class A shares
(and the performance of Class C shares is correspondingly lower than that of
Class A).
Unlike Class B shares, Class C shares do NOT automatically convert to Class A
after six years, so they continue to have higher annual expenses.
Class C shares have a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC), but only on
shares you sell within one year of buying them:
Year after you bought shares CDSC on shares you sell
- ----------------------------------------------------------
First year 1.00%
- ----------------------------------------------------------
Second year and later None
- ----------------------------------------------------------
This CDSC is waived under certain circumstances (see "Policies You Should Know
About"). Your financial representative or Kemper can answer your questions and
help you determine if you're eligible.
While Class C shares don't have any front-end sales charges, their higher annual
expenses (due to 12b-1 fees) mean that over the years you could end up paying
more than the equivalent of the maximum allowable front-end sales charge.
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Class C shares may appeal to investors who plan to sell shares within six years
of buying them, or who aren't certain of their investment time horizon.
80 | Choosing A Share Class
<PAGE>
How to Buy Shares
Once you've chosen a share class, use these instructions to make investments.
Make out any checks to "Kemper Funds."
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
First investment Additional investments
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$1,000 or more for regular accounts $100 or more for regular accounts
$250 or more for IRAs $50 or more for IRAs
$50 or more with an Automatic
Investment Plan
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Through a financial representative
o Contact your representative using o Contact your representative using
the method that's most convenient for the method that's most convenient
you for you
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By mail or express mail (see below)
o Fill out and sign an application o Send a check and a Kemper
investment slip to us at the
o Send it to us at the appropriate appropriate address below
address, along with an investment
check o If you don't have an investment
slip, simply include a letter with
your name, account number, the full
name of the fund and the share class
and your investment instructions
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By wire
o Call (800) 621-1048 for instructions o Call (800) 621-1048 for instructions
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By phone
- -- o Call (800) 621-1048 for
instructions
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
With an automatic investment plan
- -- o To set up regular investments,
call (800) 621-1048
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
On the Internet
o Follow the instructions at o Follow the instructions at
www.kemper.com www.kemper.com
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regular mail: Kemper Funds, PO Box 219415, Kansas City, MO 64121-9415
Express, registered or certified mail:
Kemper Service Company, 811 Main Street, Kansas City, MO 64105-2005
Fax number: (800) 818-7526 (for exchanging and selling only)
81 | How to Buy Shares
<PAGE>
How to Exchange Or Sell Shares
Use these instructions to exchange or sell shares in your account.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exchanging into another fund Selling shares
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$1,000 or more to open a new account Some transactions, including most
for over $50,000, can only be
$100 or more for exchanges between ordered in writing with a signature
existing accounts guarantee; if you're in doubt, see
page 92
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Through a financial representative
o Contact your representative by the o Contact your representative by
method that's most convenient the method that's most convenient
for you for you
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By phone or wire
o Call (800) 621-1048 for instructions o Call (800) 621-1048 for instructions
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By mail, express mail or fax
(see previous page)
Write a letter that includes:
Write a letter that includes:
o the fund, class and account
o the fund, class and account number number from which you want to sell
you're exchanging out of shares
o the dollar amount or number of o the dollar amount or number of
shares you want to exchange shares you want to sell
o the name and class of the fund you o your name(s), signature(s) and
want to exchange into address, as they appear on your
account
o your name(s), signature(s) and
address, as they appear on your account o a daytime telephone number
o a daytime telephone number
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
With a systematic exchange plan With a systematic withdrawal plan
o To set up regular exchanges from a o To set up regular cash payments
Kemper fund account, call from a Kemper fund account, call
(800) 621-1048 (800) 621-1048
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
On the Internet
o Follow the instructions at o Follow the instructions at
www.kemper.com www.kemper.com
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
82 | How to Exchange or Sell Shares
<PAGE>
Policies You Should Know About
Along with the instructions on the previous pages, the policies below may affect
you as a shareholder.
If you are investing through an investment provider, check the materials you
received from them. As a general rule, you should follow the information in
those materials wherever it contradicts the information given here. Please note
that an investment provider may charge its own fees.
Policies about transactions
The funds are open for business each day the New York Stock Exchange is open.
Each fund calculates its share price every business day, as of the close of
regular trading on the Exchange (typically 3 p.m. Central time, but sometimes
earlier, as in the case of scheduled half-day trading or unscheduled suspensions
of trading).
You can place an order to buy or sell shares at any time. Once your order is
received by Kemper Service Company, and they have determined that it is a "good
order," it will be processed at the next share price calculated.
Because orders placed through investment providers must be forwarded to Kemper
Service Company before they can be processed, you'll need to allow extra time. A
representative of your investment provider should be able to tell you when your
order will be processed.
KemperACCESS, the Kemper Automated Information Line, is available 24 hours a day
by calling (800) 972-3060. You can use Kemper ACCESS to get information on
Kemper funds generally and on accounts held directly at Kemper. You can also use
it to make exchanges and sell shares.
83 | Policies You Should Know About
<PAGE>
EXPRESS-Transfer lets you set up a link between a Kemper account and a bank
account. Once this link is in place, you can move money between the two with a
phone call. You'll need to make sure your bank has Automated Clearing House
(ACH) services. Transactions take two to three days to be completed, and there
is a $100 minimum. To set up EXPRESS-Transfer on a new account, see the account
application; to add it to an existing account, call (800) 621-1048.
Share certificates are available on written request. However, we don't recommend
them unless you want them for a specific purpose, because they can only be sold
by mailing them in, and if they're ever lost they're difficult and expensive to
replace.
When you call us to sell shares, we may record the call, ask you for certain
information or take other steps designed to prevent fraudulent orders. It's
important to understand that, with respect to certain pre-authorized privileges,
as long as we take reasonable steps to ensure that an order appears genuine, we
are not responsible for any losses that may occur.
When you ask us to send or receive a wire, please note that while we don't
charge a fee to send or receive wires, it's possible that your bank may do so.
Wire transactions are normally completed within 24 hours. The funds can only
send or accept wires of $1,000 or more.
Exchanges among Kemper funds are an option for most shareholders. Exchanges are
a shareholder privilege, not a right: we may reject any exchange order,
particularly when there appears to be a pattern of "market timing" or other
frequent purchases and sales. We may also reject or limit purchase orders, for
these or other reasons.
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Kemper Web site can be a valuable resource for shareholders with Internet
access. Go to www.kemper.com to get up-to-date information, review balances or
even place orders for exchanges.
84 | Policies You Should Know About
<PAGE>
When you want to sell more than $50,000 worth of shares, or send the proceeds to
a third party or to a new address, you'll usually need to place your order in
writing and include a signature guarantee. The only exception is if you want
money wired to a bank account that is already on file with us; in that case, you
don't need a signature guarantee. Also, you don't need a signature guarantee for
an exchange, although we may require one in certain other circumstances.
A signature guarantee is simply a certification of your signature -- a valuable
safeguard against fraud. You can get a signature guarantee from most brokers,
banks, savings institutions and credit unions. Note that you can't get a
signature guarantee from a notary public.
When you sell shares that have a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC), we
calculate the CDSC as a percentage of what you paid for the shares or what you
are selling them for -- whichever results in the lowest charge to you. In
processing orders to sell shares, we turn to the shares with the lowest CDSC
first. Exchanges from one Kemper fund into another don't affect CDSCs: for each
investment you make, the date you first bought Kemper shares is the date we use
to calculate a CDSC on that particular investment.
There are certain cases in which you may be exempt from a CDSC. These include:
o the death or disability of an account owner (including a joint owner)
o withdrawals made through a systematic withdrawal plan
o withdrawals related to certain retirement or benefit plans
o redemptions for certain loan advances, hardship provisions or returns
of excess contributions from retirement plans
o For Class A shares purchased through the Large Order NAV Purchase
Privilege, redemption of shares whose dealer of record at the time of
the investment notifies Kemper Distributors that the dealer is waiving
the applicable commission.
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you ever have difficulty placing an order by phone or fax, you can always
send us your order in writing.
85 | Policies You Should Know About
<PAGE>
In each of these cases, there are a number of additional provisions that apply
in order to be eligible for a CDSC waiver. Your financial representative or
Kemper can answer your questions and help you determine if you are eligible.
If you sell shares in a Kemper fund and then decide to invest with Kemper again
within six months, you can take advantage of the "reinstatement feature." With
this feature, you can put your money back into the same class of a Kemper fund
at its current NAV and for purposes of sales charges it will be treated as if it
had never left Kemper. You'll also be reimbursed (in the form of fund shares)
for any CDSC you paid when you sold your shares. Future CDSC calculations will
be based on your original investment date, rather than your reinstatement date.
There is also an option that lets investors who sold Class B shares buy Class A
shares with no sales charge, although they won't be reimbursed for any CDSC they
paid. You can only use the reinstatement feature once for any given group of
shares. To take advantage of this feature, contact Kemper or your financial
representative.
Money from shares you sell is normally sent out within one business day of when
your order is processed, although it could be delayed for up to seven days.
There are also two circumstances when it could be longer: when you are selling
shares you bought recently by check and that check hasn't cleared yet (maximum
delay: 10 days) or when unusual circumstances prompt the SEC to allow further
delays. Certain expedited redemption processes may also be delayed when you are
selling recently purchased shares.
86 | Policies You Should Know About
<PAGE>
Redemption Fee (Class M shares)
Upon the redemption or exchange of Class M shares of the fund (including
redemptions in kind) until September 3, 2000, a fee of 2% of the current net
asset value of the shares will be assessed and retained by the fund for the
benefit of the remaining shareholders. This fee is intended to discourage short
term trading in a vehicle intended for long term investment, to avoid
transaction and other expenses caused by early redemptions and to facilitate
portfolio management. The fee is not a deferred sales charge and is not a
commission paid to the investment manager or its subsidiaries. The fund reserves
the right to modify the terms of or terminate this fee at any time.
The fee applies to all redemptions from the fund and exchanges to other Kemper
Funds by Class M shareholders. The fee is applied to the shares being redeemed
or exchanged in the order in which they were purchased.
87 | Policies You Should Know About
<PAGE>
How the funds calculate share price
For each fund in this prospectus, the price at which you buy shares is as
follows:
Class A shares -- net asset value per share, or NAV, adjusted to allow for any
applicable sales charges (see "Choosing A Share Class")
Class B, Class C and Class M shares -- net asset value per share, or NAV
To calculate NAV, each share class of each fund uses the following equation:
TOTAL ASSETS - TOTAL LIABILITIES
-------------------------------------- = NAV
TOTAL NUMBER OF SHARES OUTSTANDING
For each fund and share class in this prospectus, the price at which you sell
shares is also the NAV, although for Class B and Class C investors a contingent
deferred sales charge may be taken out of the proceeds (see "Choosing A Share
Class").
We typically use market prices to value securities. However, when a market price
isn't available, or when we have reason to believe it doesn't represent market
realities, we may use fair value methods approved by a fund's Board. In such a
case, the fund's value for a security is likely to be different from quoted
market prices.
Because each fund invests in securities that are traded primarily in foreign
markets, the value of its holdings could change at a time when you aren't able
to buy or sell fund shares. This is because some foreign markets are open on
days when the fund doesn't price its shares.
88 | Policies You Should Know About
<PAGE>
Other rights we reserve
For each fund in this prospectus, you should be aware that we may do any of the
following:
o withhold 31% of your distributions as federal income tax if we have
been notified by the IRS that you are subject to backup withholding, or
if you fail to provide us with a correct taxpayer ID number or
certification that you are exempt from backup withholding
o reject a new account application if you don't provide a correct Social
Security or other tax ID number; if the account has already been
opened, we may give you 30 days' notice to provide the correct number
o charge you $9 each calendar quarter if your account balance is below
$1,000 for the entire quarter; this policy doesn't apply to most
retirement accounts or if you have an automatic investment plan
o pay you for shares you sell by "redeeming in kind," that is, by giving
you marketable securities (which typically will involve brokerage costs
for you to liquidate) rather than cash; with respect to Kemper Asian
Growth Fund, Global Discovery Fund, Kemper Global Income Fund and
Kemper New Europe Fund, the funds generally won't make a redemption in
kind unless your requests over a 90-day period total more than $250,000
or 1%, whichever is less, of a portfolio's net assets; the other funds
may make similar arrangements
89 | Policies You Should Know About
<PAGE>
o prior to September 3, 2000, all redemptions of Kemper New Europe Fund
Class M shares that total more than $500,000 over a 90-day period will
be paid in kind; in addition to paying the usual 2% redemption fee,
shareholders that are subject to redemption in kind may bear additional
expenses greater than 1% of the value of the shares redeemed, and must
submit their redemption request in writing using a form available from
Kemper Service Company
o change, add or withdraw various services, fees and account policies
(for example, we may change or terminate the exchange privilege at any
time)
90 | Policies You Should Know About
<PAGE>
Understanding Distributions And Taxes
By law, a mutual fund is required to pass through to its shareholders virtually
all of its net earnings. A fund can earn money in two ways: by receiving
interest, dividends or other income from securities it holds, and by selling
securities for more than it paid for them. (A fund's earnings are separate from
any gains or losses stemming from your own purchase of shares.) A fund may not
always pay a distribution for a given period.
The funds intend to pay dividends and distributions to their shareholders in
November or December, and if necessary may do so at other times as well.
You can choose how to receive your dividends and distributions. You can have
them all automatically reinvested in fund shares (at NAV), all sent to you by
check, have one type reinvested and the other sent to you by check or have them
invested in a different fund. Tell us your preference on your application. If
you don't indicate a preference, your dividends and distributions will all be
reinvested without sales charges. For retirement plans, reinvestment is the only
option.
Buying and selling fund shares will usually have tax consequences for you
(except in an IRA or other tax-advantaged account). Your sales of shares may
result in a capital gain or loss for you; whether long-term or short-term
depends on how long you owned the shares. For tax purposes, an exchange is the
same as a sale.
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Because each shareholder's tax situation is unique, ask your tax professional
about the tax consequences of your investments, including any state and local
tax consequences.
91 | Understanding Distributions And Taxes
<PAGE>
The tax status of the fund earnings you receive, and your own fund transactions,
generally depends on their type:
Generally taxed at ordinary income rates
- -------------------------------------------------------
o short-term capital gains from selling fund shares
- -------------------------------------------------------
o income dividends you receive from a fund
- -------------------------------------------------------
o short-term capital gains distributions received from a
fund
- -------------------------------------------------------
Generally taxed at capital gains rates
- -------------------------------------------------------
o long-term capital gains from selling fund shares
- -------------------------------------------------------
o long-term capital gains distributions received from a
fund
- -------------------------------------------------------
You may be able to claim a tax credit or deduction for your share of any foreign
taxes your fund pays.
Your fund will send you detailed tax information every January. These statements
tell you the amount and the tax category of any dividends or distributions you
received. They also have certain details on your purchases and sales of shares.
The tax status of dividends and distributions is the same whether you reinvest
them or not. Dividends or distributions declared in the last quarter of a given
year are taxed in that year, even though you may not receive the money until the
following January.
If you invest right before the fund pays a dividend, you'll be getting some of
your investment back as a taxable dividend. You can avoid this, if you want, by
investing after the fund declares a dividend. In tax-advantaged retirement
accounts you don't need to worry about this.
Corporations may be able to take a dividends- received deduction for a portion
of income dividends they receive.
92 | Understanding Distributions And Taxes
<PAGE>
Notes
<PAGE>
To Get More Information
Shareholder reports -- These include commentary from each fund's management team
about recent market conditions and the effects of a fund's strategies on its
performance. For each fund, they also have detailed performance figures, a list
of everything the fund owns, and the fund's financial statements. Shareholders
get these reports automatically. To reduce costs, we mail one copy per
household. For more copies, call (800) 621-1048.
Statements of Additional Information (SAIs) -- These tell you more about each
fund's features and policies, including additional risk information. The SAIs
are incorporated by reference into this document (meaning that they are legally
part of this prospectus).
If you'd like to ask for copies of these documents, or if you're a shareholder
and have questions, please contact Kemper or the SEC (see below). Materials you
get from Kemper are free; those from the SEC involve a copying fee. If you like,
you can look over these materials in person at the SEC's Public Reference Room
in Washington, DC or request them electronically at [email protected].
SEC
450 Fifth Street, N.W.
Washington, DC 20549-0102
www.sec.gov
Tel (202) 942-8090
Kemper Funds
222 South Riverside Plaza
Chicago, IL 60606-5808
www.kemper.com
Tel (800) 621-1048
SEC File Numbers
Kemper Asian Growth Fund 811-7731
Kemper Emerging Markets Growth Fund 811-08395
Kemper Global Blue Chip Fund 811-08395
Global Discovery Fund 811-4670
Kemper Global Income Fund 811-5829
Kemper International Fund 811-3136
Kemper Latin America Fund 811-08395
Kemper New Europe Fund 811-5969
Principal Underwriter
Kemper Distributors, Inc.
222 South Riverside Plaza
Chicago, IL 60606-5808
www.kemper.com E-mail
[email protected] Tel (800) 621-1048
[LOGO] KEMPER FUNDS
Long-term investing in short-term world(SM)
<PAGE>
KEMPER GLOBAL DISCOVERY FUND
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
March 1, 2000
Kemper Global Discovery Fund
222 South Riverside Plaza, Chicago, Illinois 60606
1-800-621-1048
This Statement of Additional Information is not a prospectus. It is the
Statement of Additional Information for Class A, B and C Shares (the "Shares" or
"Kemper Shares") of Global Discovery Fund (the "Fund"). This Statement of
Additional Information should be read in conjunction with the combined
prospectus of the Shares dated March 1, 2000. The prospectus may be obtained
without charge from the Fund at the address or telephone number on this cover or
the firm from which this Statement of Additional Information was received and is
also available along with other related materials at the Securities and Exchange
Commission's Internet web site (http://www.sec.gov).
---------
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
----
Investment Restrictions............................................... 2
Investment Policies and Techniques.................................... 3
Dividends, Distributions and Taxes.................................... 25
Investment Adviser and Underwriter.................................... 32
Portfolio Transactions................................................ 38
Purchase and Redemption of Shares..................................... 40
Performance........................................................... 54
Officers and Directors................................................ 57
Shareholder Rights.................................................... 61
Appendix.............................................................. A-1
The financial statements appearing in the Fund's 1999 Annual Report to
Shareholders is incorporated herein by reference. The Annual Report for the Fund
accompanies this document and may be obtained without charge by calling
1-800-621-1048. Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. (the "Adviser") serves as the
Fund's investment adviser.
(RECYCLED LOGO) printed on recycled paper
<PAGE>
INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS
The Fund has adopted certain fundamental investment restrictions which cannot be
changed without approval of a "majority" of its outstanding voting shares. As
defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"), this
means the lesser of (1) 67% of the Fund's shares present at a meeting where more
than 50% of the outstanding shares are present in person or by proxy; or (2)
more than 50% of the Fund's outstanding shares.
Any investment restrictions herein which involve a maximum percentage
of securities or assets shall not be considered to be violated unless an excess
over the percentage occurs immediately after and is caused by an acquisition or
encumbrance of securities or assets of, or borrowings by, the Fund.
The Fund has elected to be classified as a diversified series of an
open-end investment company.
The Fund may not, as a fundamental policy:
1. borrow money, except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as
amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory
authority having jurisdiction, from time to time;
2. issue senior securities, except as permitted under the 1940
Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory
authority having jurisdiction, from time to time;
3. purchase physical commodities or contracts relating to
physical commodities;
4. concentrate its investments in a particular industry, as that
term is used in the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted
or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from
time to time;
5. engage in the business of underwriting securities issued by
others, except to the extent that the Fund may be deemed to be
an underwriter in connection with the disposition of portfolio
securities;
6. purchase or sell real estate, which term does not include
securities or companies which deal in real estate or interests
therein, except that the Fund reserves freedom of action to
hold and to sell real estate acquired as a result of the
Fund's ownership of securities; or
7. make loans to other persons except as permitted under the
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and as interpreted
or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from
time to time.
Other Investment Policies
The Directors of the Corporation have voluntarily adopted certain policies and
restrictions which are observed in the conduct of the Fund's affairs. These
represent intentions of the Directors based upon current circumstances. They
differ from fundamental investment policies in that they may be changed or
amended by action of the Directors without requiring prior notice to, or
approval of, shareholders.
As a matter of non-fundamental policy, the Fund currently does not
intend to:
(1) borrow money in an amount greater than 5% of its total assets,
except (i) for temporary or emergency purposes and (ii) by
engaging in reverse repurchase agreements, dollar rolls, or
other investments or transactions described in the Fund's
registration statement which may be deemed to be borrowings;
2
<PAGE>
(2) enter into either of reverse repurchase agreements or dollar
rolls in an amount greater than 5% of its total assets;
(3) purchase securities on margin or make short sales, except (i)
short sales against the box, (ii) in connection with arbitrage
transactions, (iii) for margin deposits in connection with
futures contracts, options or other permitted investments,
(iv) that transactions in futures contracts and options shall
not be deemed to constitute selling securities short, and (v)
that the Fund may obtain such short-term credits as may be
necessary for the clearance of securities transactions;
(4) purchase options, unless the aggregate premiums paid on all
such options held by the Fund at any time do not exceed 20% of
its total assets; or sell put options, if as a result, the
aggregate value of the obligations underlying such put options
would exceed 50% of its total assets;
(5) enter into futures contracts or purchase options thereon
unless immediately after the purchase, the value of the
aggregate initial margin with respect to such futures
contracts entered into on behalf of the Fund and the premiums
paid for such options on futures contracts does not exceed 5%
of the fair market value of the Fund's total assets; provided
that in the case of an option that is in-the-money at the time
of purchase, the in-the-money amount may be excluded in
computing the 5% limit;
(6) purchase warrants if as a result, such securities, taken at
the lower of cost or market value, would represent more than
5% of the value of the Fund's total assets (for this purpose,
warrants acquired in units or attached to securities will be
deemed to have no value); and
(7) lend portfolio securities in an amount greater than 5% of its
total assets.
In addition, other non-fundamental policies may be established from
time to time by the Fund's Directors and would not require the approval of
shareholders.
Master/feeder fund structure. The Corporation's Board of Directors has
the discretion to retain the current distribution arrangement for the Fund while
investing in a master fund in a master/feeder fund structure as described below.
A master/feeder fund structure is one in which a fund (a "feeder
fund"), instead of investing directly in a portfolio of securities, invests most
or all of its investment assets in a separate registered investment company (the
"master fund") with substantially the same investment objective and policies as
the feeder fund. Such a structure permits the pooling of assets of two or more
feeder funds, preserving separate identities or distribution channels at the
feeder fund level. Based on the premise that certain of the expenses of
operating an investment portfolio are relatively fixed, a larger investment
portfolio may eventually achieve a lower ratio of operating expenses to average
net assets. An existing investment company is able to convert to a feeder fund
by selling all of its investments, which involves brokerage and other
transaction costs and realization of a taxable gain or loss, or by contributing
its assets to the master fund and avoiding transaction costs and, if proper
procedures are followed, the realization of taxable gain or loss.
INVESTMENT POLICIES AND TECHNIQUES
General. Descriptions in this Statement of Additional Information of a
particular investment practice or technique in which the Fund may engage (such
as short selling, hedging, etc.) or a financial instrument which the Fund may
purchase (such as options, forward foreign currency contracts, etc.) are meant
to describe the spectrum of investments that Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc.
(the "Adviser"), in its discretion, might, but is not required to, use in
managing the Fund's portfolio assets. The Adviser may, in its discretion, at any
time employ such practice, technique or instrument for one or more funds but not
for all funds advised by it. Furthermore, it is possible that
3
<PAGE>
certain types of financial instruments or investment techniques described herein
may not be available, permissible, economically feasible or effective for their
intended purposes in all markets. Certain practices, techniques, or instruments
may not be principal activities of the Fund but, to the extent employed, could
from time to time have a material impact on the Fund's performance.
Global Discovery Fund is a diversified series of Global/International
Fund, Inc. (the "Corporation"), an open-end management investment company. The
Fund's investment objective is to seek above-average capital appreciation over
the long term by investing primarily in the equity securities of small companies
located throughout the world. The Fund's investment objective is non-fundamental
and may be changed without a vote of shareholders. The Fund is designed for
investors looking for above-average appreciation potential (when compared with
the overall domestic stock market as reflected by Standard & Poor's Corporation
500 Composite Price Index) and the benefits of investing globally, but who are
willing to accept above-average stock market risk, the impact of currency
fluctuation and little or no current income.
In pursuit of its objective, the Fund generally invests in small,
rapidly growing companies which offer the potential for above-average returns
relative to larger companies, yet are frequently overlooked and thus undervalued
by the market. The Fund has the flexibility to invest in any region of the
world. It can invest in companies based in emerging markets, typically in the
Far East, Latin America and Eastern Europe, as well as in firms operating in
developed economies, such as those of the United States, Japan and Western
Europe.
The Fund's investment adviser, Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. (the
"Adviser"), invests the Fund's assets in companies it believes offer
above-average earnings, cash flow or asset growth potential. It also invests in
companies which may receive greater market recognition over time. The Adviser
believes that these factors offer significant opportunity for long-term capital
appreciation. The Adviser evaluates investments for the Fund from both a
macroeconomic and microeconomic perspective, using fundamental analysis,
including field research. The Adviser analyzes the growth potential and relative
value of possible investments. When evaluating an individual company, the
Adviser takes into consideration numerous factors, including the depth and
quality of management; a company's product line, business strategy and
competitive position; research and development efforts; financial strength,
including degree of leverage; cost structure; revenue and earnings growth
potential; price-earnings ratios and other stock valuation measures.
Secondarily, the Adviser weighs the attractiveness of the country and region in
which a company is located.
While the Adviser believes that smaller, lesser-known companies can
offer greater growth potential than larger, more established firms, the former
also involve greater risk and price volatility. To help reduce risk, the Fund
expects, under usual market conditions, to diversify its portfolio widely by
company, industry and country. Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests at
least 65% of its total assets in the equity securities of small companies. The
Fund intends to allocate investments among at least three countries at all
times, one of which may be the United States.
The Fund invests primarily in companies whose individual equity market
capitalization would place them in the same size range as companies in
approximately the lowest 20% of world market capitalization as represented by
the Salomon Brothers Broad Market Index, an index comprised of equity securities
of more than 6,500 small-, medium- and large-sized companies based in 22 markets
around the globe. Based on this policy, the companies represented in the Fund's
portfolio typically will have individual equity market capitalizations of
between approximately $50 million and $2 billion, although the Fund will be free
to invest in smaller capitalization issues. Furthermore, the median market
capitalization of the companies in which the Fund invests will not exceed $750
million.
The equity securities in which the Fund may invest consist of common
stocks, preferred stocks (either convertible or nonconvertible), rights and
warrants. These securities may be listed on the U.S. or foreign securities
exchanges or traded over-the-counter. For capital appreciation purposes, the
Fund may purchase notes, bonds, debentures, government securities and zero
coupon bonds (any of which may be convertible or nonconvertible). The Fund may
invest in foreign securities and American Depositary Receipts which may be
sponsored or unsponsored.
4
<PAGE>
The Fund may also invest in closed-end investment companies holding foreign
securities, enter into repurchase agreements and reverse repurchase agreements,
invest in illiquid securities, purchase securities on a when-issued or forward
delivery basis, and engage in strategic transactions, including derivatives. For
temporary defensive purposes, the Fund may, during periods in which conditions
in securities markets warrant, invest without limit in cash and cash
equivalents. It is impossible to accurately predict how long such alternative
strategies will be utilized.
INTERFUND BORROWING AND LENDING PROGRAM. The Fund has received exemptive relief
from the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") which permits the Fund
to participate in an interfund lending program among certain investment
companies advised by the Adviser. The interfund lending program allows the
participating funds to borrow money from and loan money to each other for
temporary or emergency purposes. The program is subject to a number of
conditions designed to ensure fair and equitable treatment of all participating
funds, including the following: (1) no fund may borrow money through the program
unless it receives a more favorable interest rate than a rate approximating the
lowest interest rate at which bank loans would be available to any of the
participating funds under a loan agreement; and (2) no fund may lend money
through the program unless it receives a more favorable return than that
available from an investment in repurchase agreements and, to the extent
applicable, money market cash sweep arrangements. In addition, a fund may
participate in the program only if and to the extent that such participation is
consistent with the fund's investment objectives and policies (for instance,
money market funds would normally participate only as lenders and tax exempt
funds only as borrowers). Interfund loans and borrowings may extend overnight,
but could have a maximum duration of seven days. Loans may be called on one
day's notice. A fund may have to borrow from a bank at a higher interest rate if
an interfund loan is called or not renewed. Any delay in repayment to a lending
fund could result in a lost investment opportunity or additional costs. The
program is subject to the oversight and periodic review of the Boards of the
participating funds. To the extent the Fund is actually engaged in borrowing
through the interfund lending program, the Fund, as a matter of non-fundamental
policy, may not borrow for other than temporary or emergency purposes (and not
for leveraging), except that the Fund may engage in reverse repurchase
agreements and dollar rolls for any purpose.
Common Stocks. Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests primarily in common
stocks. Common stock is issued by companies to raise cash for business purposes
and represents a proportionate interest in the issuing companies. Therefore, the
Fund participates in the success or failure of any company in which it holds
stock. The market values of common stock can fluctuate significantly, reflecting
the business performance of the issuing company, investor perception and general
economic or financial market movements. Smaller companies are especially
sensitive to these factors and may even become valueless. Despite the risk of
price volatility, however,
5
<PAGE>
common stocks also offer the greatest potential for gain on investment, compared
to other classes of financial assets such as bonds or cash equivalents.
Small Company Risk. The Adviser believes that smaller companies often have sales
and earnings growth rates which exceed those of larger companies, and that such
growth rates may in turn be reflected in more rapid share price appreciation
over time. However, investing in smaller company stocks involves greater risk
than is customarily associated with investing in larger, more established
companies. For example, smaller companies can have limited product lines,
markets, or financial and managerial resources. Smaller companies may also be
dependent on one or a few key persons, and may be more susceptible to losses and
risks of bankruptcy. Also, the securities of smaller companies may be thinly
traded (and therefore have to be sold at a discount from current market prices
or sold in small lots over an extended period of time). Transaction costs in
smaller company stocks may be higher than those of larger companies.
Foreign Securities. The Fund is intended to provide individual and institutional
investors with an opportunity to invest a portion of their assets in a
diversified portfolio of securities of U.S. and foreign companies located
worldwide and is designed for long-term investors who can accept international
investment risk. The Fund is designed for investors who can accept currency and
other forms of international investment risk. The Adviser believes that
allocation of the Fund's assets on a global basis decreases the degree to which
events in any one country, including the U.S., will affect an investor's entire
investment holdings. In the period since World War II, many leading foreign
economies have grown more rapidly than the U.S. economy and from time to time
have had interest rate levels that had a higher real return than the U.S. bond
market. Consequently, the securities of foreign issuers have provided attractive
returns relative to the returns provided by the securities of U.S. issuers,
although there can be no assurance that this will be true in the future.
Investors should recognize that investing in foreign securities
involves certain special considerations, including those set forth below, which
are not typically associated with investing in U.S. securities and which may
affect the Fund's performance favorably or unfavorably. As foreign companies are
not generally subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting
standards, practices and requirements comparable to those applicable to domestic
companies, there may be less publicly available information about a foreign
company than about a domestic company. Many foreign stock markets, while growing
in volume of trading activity, have substantially less volume than that of the
New York Stock Exchange, and securities of some foreign issuers are less liquid
and more volatile than securities of domestic issuers. Similarly, volume and
liquidity in most foreign bond markets is less than that in the U.S. market and
at times, volatility of price can be greater than in the U.S. Further, foreign
markets have different clearance and settlement procedures and in certain
markets there have been times when settlements have been unable to keep pace
with the volume of securities transactions, making it difficult to conduct such
transactions. Delays in settlement could result in temporary periods when assets
of the Fund are uninvested and no return is earned thereon. The inability of the
Fund to make intended security purchases due to settlement problems could cause
the Fund to miss attractive investment opportunities. Inability to dispose of
portfolio securities due to settlement problems either could result in losses to
the Fund due to subsequent declines in value of the portfolio security or, if
the Fund has entered into a contract to sell the security, could result in
possible liability to the purchaser. Fixed commissions on some foreign
securities exchanges are generally higher than negotiated commissions on U.S.
exchanges, although the Adviser will endeavor to achieve the most favorable net
results on the Fund's portfolio transactions. Further, the Fund may encounter
difficulties or be unable to pursue legal remedies and obtain judgment in
foreign courts. There is generally less government supervision and regulation of
business and industry practices, securities exchanges, brokers and listed
companies than in the U.S. It may be more difficult for the Fund's agents to
keep currently informed about corporate actions such as stock dividends or other
matters which may affect the prices of portfolio securities. Communications
between the U.S. and foreign countries may be less reliable than within the
U.S., thus increasing the risk of delayed settlements of portfolio transactions
or loss of certificates for portfolio securities. In addition, with respect to
certain foreign countries, there is the possibility of nationalization,
expropriation, the imposition of confiscatory or withholding taxation,
political, social or economic instability, or diplomatic developments which
could affect U.S. investments in those countries. Investments in foreign
securities may also entail certain risks, such as possible currency blockages or
transfer restrictions, and the difficulty of enforcing rights in other
countries. Moreover, individual foreign economies may differ favorably or
6
<PAGE>
unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as growth of gross national
product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and
balance of payments position. The Adviser seeks to mitigate the risks to the
Fund associated with the foregoing considerations through investment variation
and continuous professional management.
Eastern Europe. Investments in companies domiciled in Eastern European countries
may be subject to potentially greater risks than those of other foreign issuers.
These risks include (i) potentially less social, political and economic
stability; (ii) the small current size of the markets for such securities and
the low volume of trading, which result in less liquidity and in greater price
volatility; (iii) certain national policies which may restrict the Fund's
investment opportunities, including restrictions on investment in issuers or
industries deemed sensitive to national interests; (iv) foreign taxation; (v)
the absence of developed legal structures governing private or foreign
investment or allowing for judicial redress for injury to private property; (vi)
the absence, until recently in certain Eastern European countries, of a capital
market structure or market-oriented economy; and (vii) the possibility that
recent favorable economic developments in Eastern Europe may be slowed or
reversed by unanticipated political or social events in such countries, or in
the countries of the former Soviet Union. The Fund may invest up to 5% of its
total assets in the securities of issuers domiciled in Eastern European
countries.
Investments in such countries involve risks of nationalization,
expropriation and confiscatory taxation. The Communist governments of a number
of East European countries expropriated large amounts of private property in the
past, in many cases without adequate compensation, and there may be no assurance
that such expropriation will not occur in the future. In the event of such
expropriation, the Fund could lose a substantial portion of any investments it
has made in the affected countries. Further, no accounting standards exist in
East European countries. Finally, even though certain East European currencies
may be convertible into U.S. dollars, the conversion rates may be artificial to
the actual market values and may be adverse to the Fund's shareholders.
Foreign Currencies. Investments in foreign securities usually will involve
currencies of foreign countries. Moreover, the Fund may temporarily hold funds
in bank deposits in foreign currencies during the completion of investment
programs and may purchase forward foreign currency contracts, foreign currency
futures contracts and options on such contracts. Because of these factors, the
value of the assets of the Fund as measured in U.S. dollars may be affected
favorably or unfavorably by changes in foreign currency exchange rates and
exchange control regulations, and the Fund may incur costs in connection with
conversions between various currencies. Although the Fund's custodian values
each Fund's assets daily in terms of U.S. dollars, the Fund does not intend to
convert its holdings of foreign currencies into U.S. dollars on a daily basis.
The Fund will do so from time to time, and investors should be aware of the
costs of currency conversion. Although foreign exchange dealers do not charge a
fee for conversion, they do realize a profit based on the difference (the
"spread") between the prices at which they are buying and selling various
currencies. Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign currency to the Fund at
one rate, while offering a lesser rate of exchange should the Fund desire to
resell that currency to the dealer. The Fund will conduct its foreign currency
exchange transactions either on a spot (i.e., cash) basis at the spot rate
prevailing in the foreign currency exchange market, or through entering into
forward or futures contracts to purchase or sell foreign currencies.
Because the Fund normally will be invested in both U.S. and foreign
securities markets, changes in the Fund's share price may have a low correlation
with movements in the U.S. markets. The Fund's share price will reflect the
movements of both the different stock and bond markets in which it is invested
and of the currencies in which the investments are denominated; the strength or
weakness of the U.S. dollar against foreign currencies may account for part of
the Fund's investment performance. U.S. and foreign securities markets do not
always move in step with each other, and the total returns from different
markets may vary significantly. The Fund invests in many securities markets
around the world in an attempt to take advantage of opportunities wherever they
may arise.
Investing in Emerging Markets. Most emerging securities markets may have
substantially less volume and are subject to less government supervision than
U.S. securities markets. Securities of many issuers in emerging markets may be
less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable domestic issuers. In
addition, there is less
7
<PAGE>
regulation of securities exchanges, securities dealers, and listed and unlisted
companies in emerging markets than in the U.S.
Emerging markets also have different clearance and settlement
procedures, and in certain markets there have been times when settlements have
been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities transactions. Delays in
settlement could result in temporary periods when a portion of the assets of the
Fund is uninvested and no cash is earned thereon. The inability of the Fund to
make intended security purchases due to settlement problems could cause the Fund
to miss attractive investment opportunities. Inability to dispose of portfolio
securities due to settlement problems could result either in losses to the Fund
due to subsequent declines in value of the portfolio security or, if the Fund
has entered into a contract to sell the security, could result in possible
liability to the purchaser. Costs associated with transactions in foreign
securities are generally higher than costs associated with transactions in U.S.
securities. Such transactions also involve additional costs for the purchase or
sale of foreign currency.
Foreign investment in certain emerging market debt obligations is
restricted or controlled to varying degrees. These restrictions or controls may
at times limit or preclude foreign investment in certain emerging markets debt
obligations and increase the costs and expenses of the Fund. Certain emerging
markets require prior governmental approval of investments by foreign persons,
limit the amount of investment by foreign persons in a particular company, limit
the investment by foreign persons only to a specific class of securities of a
company that may have less advantageous rights than the classes available for
purchase by domiciliaries of the countries and/or impose additional taxes on
foreign investors. Certain emerging markets may also restrict investment
opportunities in issuers in industries deemed important to national interest.
Certain emerging markets may require governmental approval for the
repatriation of investment income, capital or the proceeds of sales of
securities by foreign investors. In addition, if a deterioration occurs in an
emerging market's balance of payments or for other reasons, a country could
impose temporary restrictions on foreign capital remittances. The Fund could be
adversely affected by delays in, or a refusal to grant, any required
governmental approval for repatriation of capital, as well as by the application
to the Fund of any restrictions on investments.
In the course of investment in emerging market debt obligations, the
Fund will be exposed to the direct or indirect consequences of political, social
and economic changes in one or more emerging markets. Political changes in
emerging market countries may affect the willingness of an emerging market
country governmental issuer to make or provide for timely payments of its
obligations. The country's economic status, as reflected, among other things, in
its inflation rate, the amount of its external debt and its gross domestic
product, also affects its ability to honor its obligations. While the Fund
manages its assets in a manner that will seek to minimize the exposure to such
risks, and will further reduce risk by owning the bonds of many issuers, there
can be no assurance that adverse political, social or economic changes will not
cause the Fund to suffer a loss of value in respect of the securities in the
Fund's portfolio.
The risk also exists that an emergency situation may arise in one or
more emerging markets as a result of which trading of securities may cease or
may be substantially curtailed and prices for the Fund's securities in such
markets may not be readily available. The Corporation may suspend redemption of
its shares for any period during which an emergency exists, as determined by the
Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). Accordingly if the Fund believes
that appropriate circumstances exist, it will promptly apply to the SEC for a
determination that an emergency is present. During the period commencing from
the Fund's identification of such condition until the date of the SEC action,
the Fund's securities in the affected markets will be valued at fair value
determined in good faith by or under the direction of the Corporation's Board of
Directors.
Volume and liquidity in most foreign bond markets are less than in the
U.S. and securities of many foreign companies are less liquid and more volatile
than securities of comparable U.S. companies. Fixed commissions on foreign
securities exchanges are generally higher than negotiated commissions on U.S.
exchanges, although the Fund endeavors to achieve the most favorable net results
on its portfolio transactions. There is generally less
8
<PAGE>
government supervision and regulation of business and industry practices,
securities exchanges, brokers, dealers and listed companies than in the U.S.
Mail service between the U.S. and foreign countries may be slower or less
reliable than within the U.S., thus increasing the risk of delayed settlements
of portfolio transactions or loss of certificates for portfolio securities. In
addition, with respect to certain emerging markets, there is the possibility of
expropriation or confiscatory taxation, political or social instability, or
diplomatic developments which could affect the Fund's investments in those
countries. Moreover, individual emerging market economies may differ favorably
or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as growth of gross
national product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment, resource
self-sufficiency and balance of payments position. The chart below sets forth
the risk ratings of selected emerging market countries' sovereign debt
securities.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Sovereign Risk Ratings for Selected Emerging Market Countries as of February, 2000
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Country Moody's Standard & Poor's
Chile Baa1 A-
Turkey B1 B
Mexico Ba1*** BB
Czech Republic Baa1 A-
Hungary Baa1 BBB+
Colombia Ba2 BB+
Venezuela B2 B
Morocco Ba1 BB
Argentina B1 BB
Brazil B2 B+
Poland Baa1 BBB
Ivory Coast NR NR
</TABLE>
The Fund may have limited legal recourse in the event of a default with
respect to certain debt obligations it holds. If the issuer of a fixed-income
security owned by the Fund defaults, the Fund may incur additional expenses to
seek recovery. Debt obligations issued by emerging market country governments
differ from debt obligations of private entities; remedies from defaults on debt
obligations issued by emerging market governments, unlike those on private debt,
must be pursued in the courts of the defaulting party itself. The Fund's ability
to enforce its rights against private issuers may be limited. The ability to
attach assets to enforce a judgment may be
9
<PAGE>
limited. Legal recourse is therefore somewhat diminished. Bankruptcy, moratorium
and other similar laws applicable to private issuers of debt obligations may be
substantially different from those of other countries. The political context,
expressed as an emerging market governmental issuer's willingness to meet the
terms of the debt obligation, for example, is of considerable importance. In
addition, no assurance can be given that the holders of commercial bank debt may
not contest payments to the holders of debt obligations in the event of default
under commercial bank loan agreements.
Income from securities held by the Fund could be reduced by a
withholding tax on the source or other taxes imposed by the emerging market
countries in which the Fund makes its investments. The Fund's net asset value
may also be affected by changes in the rates or methods of taxation applicable
to the Fund or to entities in which the Fund has invested. The Adviser will
consider the cost of any taxes in determining whether to acquire any particular
investments, but can provide no assurance that the taxes will not be subject to
change.
Many emerging markets have experienced substantial, and in some periods
extremely high rates of inflation for many years. Inflation and rapid
fluctuations in inflation rates have had and may continue to have adverse
effects on the economies and securities markets of certain emerging market
countries. In an attempt to control inflation, wage and price controls have been
imposed in certain countries. Of these countries, some, in recent years, have
begun to control inflation through prudent economic policies.
Emerging market governmental issuers are among the largest debtors to
commercial banks, foreign governments, international financial organizations and
other financial institutions. Certain emerging market governmental issuers have
not been able to make payments of interest on or principal of debt obligations
as those payments have come due. Obligations arising from past restructuring
agreements may affect the economic performance and political and social
stability of those issuers.
Governments of many emerging market countries have exercised and
continue to exercise substantial influence over many aspects of the private
sector through the ownership or control of many companies, including some of the
largest in any given country. As a result, government actions in the future
could have a significant effect on economic conditions in emerging markets,
which in turn, may adversely affect companies in the private sector, general
market conditions and prices and yields of certain of the securities in the
Fund's portfolio. Expropriation, confiscatory taxation, nationalization,
political, economic or social instability or other similar developments have
occurred frequently over the history of certain emerging markets and could
adversely affect the Fund's assets should these conditions recur.
The ability of emerging market country governmental issuers to make
timely payments on their obligations is likely to be influenced strongly by the
issuer's balance of payments, including export performance, and its access to
international credits and investments. An emerging market whose exports are
concentrated in a few commodities could be vulnerable to a decline in the
international prices of one or more of those commodities. Increased
protectionism on the part of an emerging market's trading partners could also
adversely affect the country's exports and diminish its trade account surplus,
if any. To the extent that emerging markets receive payment for its exports in
currencies other than dollars or non-emerging market currencies, its ability to
make debt payments denominated in dollars or non-emerging market currencies
could be affected.
To the extent that an emerging market country cannot generate a trade
surplus, it must depend on continuing loans from foreign governments,
multilateral organizations or private commercial banks, aid payments from
foreign governments and on inflows of foreign investment. The access of emerging
markets to these forms of external funding may not be certain, and a withdrawal
of external funding could adversely affect the capacity of emerging market
country governmental issuers to make payments on their obligations. In addition,
the cost of servicing emerging market debt obligations can be affected by a
change in international interest rates since the majority of these obligations
carry interest rates that are adjusted periodically based upon international
rates.
Another factor bearing on the ability of emerging market countries to
repay debt obligations is the level of international reserves of the country.
Fluctuations in the level of these reserves affect the amount of foreign
10
<PAGE>
exchange readily available for external debt payments and thus could have a
bearing on the capacity of emerging market countries to make payments on these
debt obligations.
Investing in Latin America. Investing in securities of Latin American issuers
may entail risks relating to the potential political and economic instability of
certain Latin American countries and the risks of expropriation,
nationalization, confiscation or the imposition of restrictions on foreign
investment and on repatriation of capital invested. In the event of
expropriation, nationalization or other confiscation by any country, the Fund
could lose its entire investment in any such country.
The securities markets of Latin American countries are substantially
smaller, less developed, less liquid and more volatile than the major securities
markets in the U.S. Disclosure and regulatory standards are in many respects
less stringent than U.S. standards. Furthermore, there is a lower level of
monitoring and regulation of the markets and the activities of investors in such
markets.
The limited size of many Latin American securities markets and limited
trading volume in the securities of Latin American issuers compared to volume of
trading in the securities of U.S. issuers could cause prices to be erratic for
reasons apart from factors that affect the soundness and competitiveness of the
securities issuers. For example, limited market size may cause prices to be
unduly influenced by traders who control large positions. Adverse publicity and
investors' perceptions, whether or not based on in-depth fundamental analysis,
may decrease the value and liquidity of portfolio securities.
The Fund may invest a portion of its assets in securities denominated
in currencies of Latin American countries. Accordingly, changes in the value of
these currencies against the U.S. dollar may result in corresponding changes in
the U.S. dollar value of the Fund's assets denominated in those currencies.
Some Latin American countries also may have managed currencies, which
are not free floating against the U.S. dollar. In addition, there is risk that
certain Latin American countries may restrict the free conversion of their
currencies into other currencies. Further, certain Latin American currencies may
not be internationally traded. Certain of these currencies have experienced a
steep devaluation relative to the U.S. dollar. Any devaluations in the
currencies in which the Fund's portfolio securities are denominated may have a
detrimental impact on the Fund's net asset value.
The economies of individual Latin American countries may differ
favorably or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as the rate of
growth of gross domestic product, the rate of inflation, capital reinvestment,
resource self-sufficiency and balance of payments position. Certain Latin
American countries have experienced high levels of inflation which can have a
debilitating effect on an economy, although some have begun to control inflation
in recent years through prudent economic policies. Furthermore, certain Latin
American countries may impose withholding taxes on dividends payable to the Fund
at a higher rate than those imposed by other foreign countries. This may reduce
the Fund's investment income available for distribution to shareholders.
Certain Latin American countries such as Argentina, Brazil and Mexico
are among the world's largest debtors to commercial banks and foreign
governments. At times, certain Latin American countries have declared moratoria
on the payment of principal and/or interest on outstanding debt.
Latin America is a region rich in natural resources such as oil,
copper, tin, silver, iron ore, forestry, fishing, livestock and agriculture. The
region has a large population (roughly 300 million) representing a large
domestic market. Economic growth was strong in the 1960s and 1970s, but slowed
dramatically (and in some instances was negative) in the 1980s as a result of
poor economic policies, higher international interest rates, and the denial of
access to new foreign capital. Although a number of Latin American countries are
currently experiencing lower rates of inflation and higher rates of real growth
in gross domestic product than they have in the past, other Latin American
countries continue to experience significant problems, including high inflation
rates and high interest rates. Capital flight has proven a persistent problem
and external debt has been forcibly restructured. Political turmoil, high
inflation, capital repatriation restrictions, and nationalization have further
exacerbated conditions.
11
<PAGE>
Governments of many Latin American countries have exercised and
continue to exercise substantial influence over many aspects of the private
sector through the ownership or control of many companies, including some of the
largest in those countries. As a result, government actions in the future could
have a significant effect on economic conditions which may adversely affect
prices of certain portfolio securities. Expropriation, confiscatory taxation,
nationalization,
political, economic or social instability or other similar developments, such
as military coups, have occurred in the past and could also adversely affect
the Fund's investments in this region.
Changes in political leadership, the implementation of market oriented
economic policies, such as privatization, trade reform and fiscal and monetary
reform are among the recent steps taken to renew economic growth. External debt
is being restructured and flight capital (domestic capital that has left home
country) has begun to return. Inflation control efforts have also been
implemented. Free Trade Zones are being discussed in various areas around the
region, the most notable being a free zone among Mexico, the U.S. and Canada and
another zone among four countries in the southernmost point of Latin America.
Currencies are typically weak, but most are now relatively free floating, and it
is not unusual for the currencies to undergo wide fluctuations in value over
short periods of time due to changes in the market.
Investing in the Pacific Basin. Economies of individual Pacific Basin countries
may differ favorably or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as
growth of gross national product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment,
resource self-sufficiency, interest rate levels, and balance of payments
position. Of particular importance, most of the economies in this region of the
world are heavily dependent upon exports, particularly to developed countries,
and, accordingly, have been and may continue to be adversely affected by trade
barriers, managed adjustments in relative currency values, and other
protectionist measures imposed or negotiated by the U.S. and other countries
with which they trade. These economies also have been and may continue to be
negatively impacted by economic conditions in the U.S. and other trading
partners, which can lower the demand for goods produced in the Pacific Basin.
With respect to the Peoples Republic of China and other markets in
which each Fund may participate, there is the possibility of nationalization,
expropriation or confiscatory taxation, political changes, government
regulation, social instability or diplomatic developments that could adversely
impact a Pacific Basin country or the Fund's investment in the debt of that
country.
Foreign companies, including Pacific Basin companies, are not generally
subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards,
practices and disclosure requirements comparable to those applicable to U.S.
companies. Consequently, there may be less publicly available information about
such companies than about U.S. companies. Moreover, there is generally less
government supervision and regulation in the Pacific Basin than in the U.S.
Investing in Europe. Most Eastern European nations, including Hungary, Poland,
Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, and Romania have had centrally planned,
socialist economies since shortly after World War II. A number of their
governments, including those of Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Poland are
currently implementing or considering reforms directed at political and economic
liberalization, including efforts to foster multi-party political systems,
decentralize economic planning, and move toward free market economies. The
conditions that have given rise to these developments are changeable, and there
is no assurance that reforms will continue or that their goals will be achieved.
Portugal is a genuinely emerging market which has experienced rapid
growth since the mid-1980s, except for a brief period of stagnation over
1990-91. Portugal's government remains committed to privatization of the
financial system away from one dependent upon the banking system to a more
balanced structure appropriate for the requirements of a modern economy.
Economic reforms launched in the 1980s continue to benefit Turkey.
Turkey's economy has grown steadily since the early 1980s, with real growth in
per capita Gross Domestic Product (the "GDP") increasing
12
<PAGE>
more than 6% annually. Agriculture remains the most important economic sector,
employing approximately 55% of the labor force, and accounting for nearly 20% of
GDP and 20% of exports. Inflation and interest rates remain high, and a large
budget deficit will continue to cause difficulties in Turkey's substantial
transformation to a dynamic free market economy.
Like many other Western economies, Greece suffered severely from the
global oil price hikes of the 1970s, with annual GDP growth plunging from 8% to
2% in the 1980s, and inflation, unemployment, and budget deficits rising
sharply. The fall of the socialist government in 1989 and the inability of the
conservative opposition to obtain a clear majority have led to business
uncertainty and the continued prospects for flat economic performance. Once
Greece has sorted out its political situation, it will have to face the
challenges posed by the steadily increasing integration of the EC, including the
progressive lowering of trade and investment barriers. Tourism continues as a
major industry, providing a vital offset to a sizable commodity trade deficit.
Securities traded in certain emerging European securities markets may
be subject to risks due to the inexperience of financial intermediaries, the
lack of modern technology and the lack of a sufficient capital base to expand
business operations. Additionally, former Communist regimes of a number of
Eastern European countries had expropriated a large amount of property, the
claims of which have not been entirely settled. There can be no assurance that
the Fund's investments in Eastern Europe would not also be expropriated,
nationalized or otherwise confiscated. Finally, any change in leadership or
policies of Eastern European countries, or countries that exercise a significant
influence over those countries, may halt the expansion of or reverse the
liberalization of foreign investment policies now occurring and adversely affect
existing investment opportunities.
Investing in Africa. Africa is a continent of roughly 50 countries with a total
population of approximately 840 million people. Literacy rates (the percentage
of people who are over 15 years of age and who can read and write) are
relatively low, ranging from 20% to 60%. The primary industries include crude
oil, natural gas, manganese ore, phosphate, bauxite, copper, iron, diamond,
cotton, coffee, cocoa, timber, tobacco, sugar, tourism and cattle.
Many of the countries are fraught with political instability. However,
there has been a trend over the past five years toward democratization. Many
countries are moving from a military style, Marxist, or single party government
to a multi-party system. Still, there remain many countries that do not have a
stable political process. Other countries have been enmeshed in civil wars and
border clashes.
Economically, the Northern Rim countries (including Morocco, Egypt and
Algeria) and Nigeria, Zimbabwe and South Africa are the wealthier countries on
the continent. The market capitalization of these countries has been growing
recently as more international companies invest in Africa and as local companies
start to list on the exchanges. However, religious and ethnic strife has been a
significant source of instability.
On the other end of the economic spectrum are countries, such as
Burkinafaso, Madagascar and Malawi, that are considered to be among the poorest
or least developed in the world. These countries are generally landlocked or
have poor natural resources. The economies of many African countries are heavily
dependent on international oil prices. Of all the African industries, oil has
been the most lucrative, accounting for 40% to 60% of many countries' GDP.
However, the general decline in oil prices has had an adverse impact on many
economies.
Debt Securities. If the Adviser determines that the capital appreciation on debt
securities is likely to exceed that of common stocks, the Fund may invest in
debt securities of foreign and U.S. issuers. Portfolio debt investments will be
selected on the basis of capital appreciation potential, by evaluating, among
other things, potential yield, if any, credit quality, and the fundamental
outlooks for currency and interest rate trends in different parts of the world,
taking into account the ability to hedge a degree of currency or local bond
price risk. The Fund may purchase "investment-grade" bonds, which are those
rated Aaa, Aa, A or Baa by Moody's or AAA, AA, A or BBB by S&P or, if unrated,
judged to be of equivalent quality as determined by the Adviser. Bonds rated Baa
or BBB may have speculative elements as well as investment-grade
characteristics. The Fund may also invest up to 5% of its net assets
13
<PAGE>
in debt securities which are rated below investment-grade, that is, rated below
Baa by Moody's or below BBB by S&P (commonly referred to as "junk bonds") and in
unrated securities of equivalent quality.
High Yield/High Risk Securities. Below investment-grade securities (commonly
referred to as "junk bonds") (rated Ba and lower by Moody's and BB and lower by
S&P) or unrated securities of equivalent quality, in which the Fund may invest
up to 5% of its net assets, carry a high degree of risk (including the
possibility of default or bankruptcy of the issuers of such securities),
generally involve greater volatility of price and risk of principal and income,
and may be less liquid, than securities in the higher rating categories and are
considered speculative. The lower the ratings of such debt securities, the
greater their risks render them like equity securities. See the Appendix to this
Statement of Additional Information for a more complete description of the
ratings assigned by ratings organizations and their respective characteristics.
Economic downturns may disrupt the high yield market and impair the
ability of issuers to repay principal and interest. Also, an increase in
interest rates would likely have a greater adverse impact on the value of such
obligations than on comparable higher quality debt securities. During an
economic downturn or period of rising interest rates, highly leveraged issues
may experience financial stress which could adversely affect their ability to
service their principal and interest payment obligations. Prices and yields of
high yield securities will fluctuate over time and, during periods of economic
uncertainty, volatility of high yield securities may adversely affect the Fund's
net asset value. In addition, investments in high yield zero coupon or
pay-in-kind bonds, rather than income-bearing high yield securities, may be more
speculative and may be subject to greater fluctuations in value due to changes
in interest rates.
The trading market for high yield securities may be thin to the extent
that there is no established retail secondary market or because of a decline in
the value of such securities. A thin trading market may limit the ability of the
Fund to accurately value high yield securities in the Fund's portfolio and to
dispose of those securities. Adverse publicity and investor perceptions may
decrease the values and liquidity of high yield securities. These securities may
also involve special registration responsibilities, liabilities and costs, and
liquidity and valuation difficulties.
Credit quality in the high yield securities market can change suddenly
and unexpectedly, and even recently issued credit ratings may not fully reflect
the actual risks posed by a particular high-yield security. For these reasons,
it is the policy of the Adviser not to rely exclusively on ratings issued by
established credit rating agencies, but to supplement such ratings with its own
independent and on-going review of credit quality. The achievement of the Fund's
investment objective by investment in such securities may be more dependent on
the Adviser's credit analysis than is the case for higher quality bonds. Should
the rating of a portfolio security be downgraded, the Adviser will determine
whether it is in the best interest of the Fund to retain or dispose of such
security.
Prices for below investment-grade securities may be affected by
legislative and regulatory developments. For example, new federal rules require
savings and loan institutions to gradually reduce their holdings of this type of
security. Also, Congress has from time to time considered legislation which
would restrict or eliminate the corporate tax deduction for interest payments in
these securities and regulate corporate restructurings. Such legislation may
significantly depress the prices of outstanding securities of this type. For
more information regarding tax issues related to high yield securities, see
"Taxes" hereafter.
Convertible Securities. The Fund may invest in convertible securities,
that is, bonds, notes, debentures, preferred stocks and other securities which
are convertible into common stock. Investments in convertible securities can
provide an opportunity for capital appreciation and/or income through interest
and dividend payments by virtue of their conversion or exchange features.
The convertible securities in which the Fund may invest are either
fixed income or zero coupon debt securities which may be converted or exchanged
at a stated or determinable exchange ratio into underlying shares of common
stock. The exchange ratio for any particular convertible security may be
adjusted from time to time due to stock splits, dividends, spin-offs, other
corporate distributions or scheduled changes in the exchange ratio.
14
<PAGE>
Convertible debt securities and convertible preferred stocks, until converted,
have general characteristics similar to both debt and equity securities.
Although to a lesser extent than with debt securities generally, the market
value of convertible securities tends to decline as interest rates increase and,
conversely, tends to increase as interest rates decline. In addition, because of
the conversion or exchange feature, the market value of convertible securities
typically changes as the market value of the underlying common stocks changes,
and, therefore, also tends to follow movements in the general market for equity
securities. A unique feature of convertible securities is that as the market
price of the underlying common stock declines, convertible securities tend to
trade increasingly on a yield basis, and so may not experience market value
declines to the same extent as the underlying common stock. When the market
price of the underlying common stock increases, the prices of the convertible
securities tend to rise as a reflection of the value of the underlying common
stock, although typically not as much as the underlying common stock. While no
securities investments are without risk, investments in convertible securities
generally entail less risk than investments in common stock of the same issuer.
As debt securities, convertible securities are investments which
provide for a stream of income (or in the case of zero coupon securities,
accretion of income) with generally higher yields than common stocks. Of course,
like all debt securities, there can be no assurance of income or principal
payments because the issuers of the convertible securities may default on their
obligations. Convertible securities generally offer lower yields than
non-convertible securities of similar quality because of their conversion or
exchange features.
Convertible securities generally are subordinated to other similar but
non-convertible securities of the same issuer, although convertible bonds, as
corporate debt obligations, enjoy seniority in right of payment to all equity
securities, and convertible preferred stock is senior to common stock, of the
same issuer. However, because of the subordination feature, convertible bonds
and convertible preferred stock typically have lower ratings than similar
non-convertible securities.
Convertible securities may be issued as fixed income obligations that
pay current income or as zero coupon notes and bonds, including Liquid Yield
Option Notes ("LYONs"((TM))). Zero coupon securities pay no cash income and are
sold at substantial discounts from their value at maturity. When held to
maturity, their entire income, which consists of accretion of discount, comes
from the difference between the issue price and their value at maturity. Zero
coupon convertible securities offer the opportunity for capital appreciation as
increases (or decreases) in market value of such securities closely follow the
movements in the market value of the underlying common stock. Zero coupon
convertible securities generally are expected to be less volatile than the
underlying common stocks as they usually are issued with shorter maturities (15
years or less) and are issued with options and/or redemption features
exercisable by the holder of the obligation entitling the holder to redeem the
obligation and receive a defined cash payment.
Illiquid Securities. The Fund may occasionally purchase securities other than in
the open market. While such purchases may often offer attractive opportunities
for investment not otherwise available on the open market, the securities so
purchased are often "restricted securities" or "not readily marketable," i.e.,
securities which cannot be sold to the public without registration under the
Securities Act of 1933 (the "1933 Act") or the availability of an exemption from
registration (such as Rules 144 or 144A) or because they are subject to other
legal or contractual delays in or restrictions on resale.
The absence of a trading market can make it difficult to ascertain a
market value for illiquid investments. Disposing of illiquid investments may
involve time-consuming negotiation and legal expenses, and it may be difficult
or impossible for the Fund to sell them promptly at an acceptable price. The
Fund may have to bear the extra expense of registering such securities for
resale and the risk of substantial delay in effecting such registration. Also
market quotations are less readily available. The judgment of the Adviser may at
times play a greater role in valuing these securities than in the case of
unrestricted securities.
Generally speaking, restricted securities may be sold only to qualified
institutional buyers, or in a privately negotiated transaction to a limited
number of purchasers, or in limited quantities after they have been held for a
specified period of time and other conditions are met pursuant to an exemption
from registration, or in a public
15
<PAGE>
offering for which a registration statement is in effect under the 1933 Act. The
Fund may be deemed to be an "underwriter" for purposes of the 1933 Act when
selling restricted securities to the public, and in such event the Fund may be
liable to purchasers of such securities if the registration statement prepared
by the issuer, or the prospectus forming a part of it, is materially inaccurate
or misleading.
Investment Company Securities. The Fund may acquire securities of other
investment companies to the extent consistent with its investment objective and
subject to the limitations of the 1940 Act. The Fund will indirectly bear its
proportionate share of any management fees and other expenses paid by such other
investment companies.
For example, the Fund may invest in a variety of investment companies which seek
to track the composition and performance of specific indexes or a specific
portion of an index. These index-based investments hold substantially all of
their assets in securities representing their specific index. Accordingly, the
main risk of investing in index-based investments is the same as investing in a
portfolio of equity securities comprising the index. The market prices of
index-based investments will fluctuate in accordance with both changes in the
market value of their underlying portfolio securities and due to supply and
demand for the instruments on the exchanges on which they are traded (which may
result in their trading at a discount or premium to their NAVs). Index-based
investments may not replicate exactly the performance of their specified index
because of transaction costs and because of the temporary unavailability of
certain component securities of the index.
Examples of index-based investments include:
SPDRs(R): SPDRs, an acronym for "Standard & Poor's Depositary Receipts," are
based on the S&P 500 Composite Stock Price Index. They are issued by the SPDR
Trust, a unit investment trust that holds shares of substantially all the
companies in the S&P 500 in substantially the same weighting and seeks to
closely track the price performance and dividend yield of the Index.
MidCap SPDRs(R): MidCap SPDRs are based on the S&P MidCap 400 Index. They are
issued by the MidCap SPDR Trust, a unit investment trust that holds a portfolio
of securities consisting of substantially all of the common stocks in the S&P
MidCap 400 Index in substantially the same weighting and seeks to closely track
the price performance and dividend yield of the Index.
Select Sector SPDRs(R): Select Sector SPDRs are based on a particular sector or
group of industries that are represented by a specified Select Sector Index
within the Standard & Poor's Composite Stock Price Index. They are issued by The
Select Sector SPDR Trust, an open-end management investment company with nine
portfolios that each seeks to closely track the price performance and dividend
yield of a particular Select Sector Index.
DIAMONDS(SM): DIAMONDS are based on the Dow Jones Industrial Average(SM). They
are issued by the DIAMONDS Trust, a unit investment trust that holds a portfolio
of all the component common stocks of the Dow Jones Industrial Average and seeks
to closely track the price performance and dividend yield of the Dow.
Nasdaq-100 Shares: Nasdaq-100 Shares are based on the Nasdaq 100 Index. They are
issued by the Nasdaq-100 Trust, a unit investment trust that holds a portfolio
consisting of substantially all of the securities, in substantially the same
weighting, as the component stocks of the Nasdaq-100 Index and seeks to closely
track the price performance and dividend yield of the Index.
WEBs(SM): WEBs, an acronym for "World Equity Benchmark Shares," are based on 17
country-specific Morgan Stanley Capital International Indexes. They are issued
by the WEBs Index Fund, Inc., an open-end management investment company that
seeks to generally correspond to the price and yield performance of a specific
Morgan Stanley Capital International Index.
Repurchase Agreements. The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with member
banks of the Federal Reserve System, with any domestic or foreign broker/dealer
which is recognized as a reporting government
16
<PAGE>
securities dealer, any foreign bank, if the repurchase agreement is fully
secured by government securities of the particular foreign jurisdiction, if the
creditworthiness of the bank or broker/dealer has been determined by the Adviser
to be at least as high as that of other obligations the Fund may purchase, or to
be at least equal to that of issuers of commercial paper rated within the two
highest grades assigned by Moody's or S&P.
A repurchase agreement provides a means for the Fund to earn income on
assets for periods as short as overnight. It is an arrangement under which the
Fund acquires a security ("Obligation") and the seller agrees, at the time of
sale, to repurchase the Obligation at a specified time and price. Obligations
subject to a repurchase agreement are held in a segregated account and the value
of such securities kept at least equal to the repurchase price on a daily basis.
The repurchase price may be higher than the purchase price, the difference being
income to the Fund, or the purchase and repurchase prices may be the same, with
interest at a stated rate due to the Fund together with the repurchase price
upon repurchase. In either case, the income to the Fund is unrelated to the
interest rate on the Obligation itself. Obligations will be held by the
custodian or in the Federal Reserve Book Entry system.
For purposes of the 1940 Act, a repurchase agreement is deemed to be a
loan from the Fund to the seller of the Obligation subject to the repurchase
agreement and is therefore subject to that Fund's investment restriction
applicable to loans. It is not clear whether a court would consider the
Obligation purchased by the Fund subject to a repurchase agreement as being
owned by the Fund or as being collateral for a loan by the Fund to the seller.
In the event of the commencement of bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings with
respect to the seller of the Obligation before repurchase of the Obligation
under the repurchase agreement, a Fund may encounter delay and incur costs
before being able to sell the security. Delays may involve loss of interest or
decline in price of the Obligation. If the court characterizes the transaction
as a loan and the Fund has not perfected a security interest in the Obligation,
the Fund may be required to return the Obligation to the seller's estate and be
treated as an unsecured creditor of the seller. As an unsecured creditor, the
Fund would be at risk of losing some or all of the principal and income involved
in the transaction. As with any unsecured debt instrument purchased for the
Fund, the Adviser seeks to minimize the risk of loss through repurchase
agreements by analyzing the creditworthiness of the obligor, in this case the
seller of the Obligation. Apart from the risk of bankruptcy or insolvency
proceedings, there is also the risk that the seller may fail to repurchase the
Obligation, in which case the Fund may incur a loss if the proceeds to the Fund
of the sale to a third party are less than the repurchase price. To protect
against such potential loss, if the market value (including interest) of the
Obligation subject to the repurchase agreement becomes less than the repurchase
price (including interest), the Fund will direct the seller of the Obligation to
deliver additional securities so that the market value (including interest) of
all securities subject to the repurchase agreement will equal or exceed the
repurchase price. It is possible that the Fund will be unsuccessful in seeking
to impose on the seller a contractual obligation to deliver additional
securities. A repurchase agreement with foreign banks may be available with
respect to government securities of the particular foreign jurisdiction, and
such repurchase agreements involve risks similar to repurchase agreements with
U.S. entities.
When-Issued Securities. The Fund may from time to time purchase securities on a
"when-issued" or "forward delivery" basis for payment and delivery at a later
date. The price of such securities, which may be expressed in yield terms, is
fixed at the time the commitment to purchase is made, but delivery and payment
for the when-issued or forward delivery securities takes place at a later date.
During the period between purchase and settlement, no payment is made by the
Fund to the issuer and no interest accrues to the Fund. To the extent that
assets of the Fund are held in cash pending the settlement of a purchase of
securities, the Fund would earn no income; however, it is the Fund's intention
to be fully invested to the extent practicable and subject to the policies
stated above. While when-issued or forward delivery securities may be sold prior
to the settlement date, the Fund intends to purchase such securities with the
purpose of actually acquiring them unless a sale appears desirable for
investment reasons. At the time the Fund makes the commitment to purchase a
security on a when-issued or forward delivery basis, it will record the
transaction and reflect the value of the security in determining its net asset
value. At the time of settlement, the market value of the when-issued or forward
delivery securities may be more or less than the purchase price. The Fund does
not believe that its net asset value or income will be adversely affected by its
purchase of securities on a when-issued or forward delivery basis.
17
<PAGE>
Lending of Portfolio Securities. The Fund may seek to increase its income by
lending portfolio securities. Under present regulatory policies, including those
of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System and the SEC, such loans
may be made to member firms of the New York Stock Exchange (the "Exchange"), and
would be required to be secured continuously by collateral in cash or liquid
assets maintained on a current basis at an amount at least equal to the market
value and accrued interest of the securities loaned. The Fund would have the
right to call a loan and obtain the securities loaned on no more than five days'
notice. During the existence of a loan, the Fund would continue to receive the
equivalent of the interest paid by the issuer on the securities loaned and would
also receive compensation based on investment of the collateral. As with other
extensions of credit there are risks of delay in recovery or even loss of rights
in the collateral should the borrower of the securities fail financially.
However, the loans would be made only to firms deemed by the Adviser to be of
good standing, and when, in the judgment of the Adviser, the consideration which
can be earned currently from securities loans of this type justifies the
attendant risk. If the Fund determines to make securities loans, the value of
the securities loaned will not exceed 5% of the value of the Fund's total assets
at the time any loan is made.
Zero Coupon Securities. The Fund may invest in zero coupon securities which pay
no cash income and are sold at substantial discounts from their value at
maturity. When held to maturity, their entire income, which consists of
accretion of discount, comes from the difference between the issue price and
their value at maturity. Zero coupon securities are subject to greater market
value fluctuations from changing interest rates than debt obligations of
comparable maturities which make current distributions of interest (cash). Zero
coupon securities which are convertible into common stock offer the opportunity
for capital appreciation as increases (or decreases) in market value of such
securities closely follows the movements in the market value of the underlying
common stock. Zero coupon convertible securities generally are expected to be
less volatile than the underlying common stocks, as they usually are issued with
maturities of 15 years or less and are issued with options and/or redemption
features exercisable by the holder of the obligation entitling the holder to
redeem the obligation and receive a defined cash payment.
Zero coupon securities include securities issued directly by the U.S.
Treasury, and U.S. Treasury bonds or notes and their unmatured interest coupons
and receipts for their underlying principal ("coupons") which have been
separated by their holder, typically a custodian bank or investment brokerage
firm. A holder will separate the interest coupons from the underlying principal
(the "corpus") of the U.S. Treasury security. A number of securities firms and
banks have stripped the interest coupons and receipts and then resold them in
custodial receipt programs with a number of different names, including "Treasury
Income Growth Receipts" (TIGRS(TM)) and Certificate of Accrual on Treasuries
(CATS(TM)). The underlying U.S. Treasury bonds and notes themselves are held in
book-entry form at the Federal Reserve Bank or, in the case of bearer securities
(i.e., unregistered securities which are owned ostensibly by the bearer or
holder thereof), in trust on behalf of the owners thereof. Counsel to the
underwriters of these certificates or other evidences of ownership of the U.S.
Treasury securities have stated that, for federal tax and securities purposes,
in their opinion purchasers of such certificates, such as the Fund, most likely
will be deemed the beneficial holder of the underlying U.S. Government
securities. The Fund understands that the staff of the Division of Investment
Management of the SEC no longer considers such privately stripped obligations to
be U.S. Government securities, as defined in the 1940 Act.
The U.S. Treasury has facilitated transfers of ownership of zero coupon
securities by accounting separately for the beneficial ownership of particular
interest coupon and corpus payments on Treasury securities through the Federal
Reserve book-entry record keeping system. The Federal Reserve program as
established by the Treasury Department is known as "STRIPS" or "Separate Trading
of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities." Under the STRIPS program,
the Fund will be able to have its beneficial ownership of zero coupon securities
recorded directly in the book-entry record-keeping system in lieu of having to
hold certificates or other evidences of ownership of the underlying U.S.
Treasury securities.
When U.S. Treasury obligations have been stripped of their unmatured
interest coupons by the holder, the principal or corpus is sold at a deep
discount because the buyer receives only the right to receive a future fixed
payment on the security and does not receive any rights to periodic interest
(cash) payments. Once stripped or separated, the corpus and coupons may be sold
separately. Typically, the coupons are sold separately or grouped
18
<PAGE>
with other coupons with like maturity dates and sold bundled in such form.
Purchasers of stripped obligations acquire, in effect, discount obligations that
are economically identical to the zero coupon securities that the Treasury sells
itself (see "Taxes," hereafter).
FHLMC Collateralized Mortgage Obligations. FHLMC CMOs are debt obligations of
FHLMC issued in multiple classes having different maturity dates which are
secured by the pledge of a pool of conventional mortgage loans purchased by
FHLMC. Unlike FHLMC PCs, payments of principal and interest on the CMOs are made
semiannually, as opposed to monthly. The amount of principal payable on each
semiannual payment date is determined in accordance with FHLMC's mandatory
sinking fund schedule, which, in turn, is equal to approximately 100% of FHA
prepayment experience applied to the mortgage collateral pool. All sinking fund
payments in the CMOs are allocated to the retirement of the individual classes
of bonds in the order of their stated maturities. Payment of principal on the
mortgage loans in the collateral pool in excess of the amount of FHLMC's minimum
sinking fund obligation for any payment date are paid to the holders of the CMOs
as additional sinking fund payments. Because of the "pass-through" nature of all
principal payments received on the collateral pool in excess of FHLMC's minimum
sinking fund requirement, the rate at which principal of the CMOs is actually
repaid is likely to be such that each class of bonds will be retired in advance
of its scheduled maturity date. The prices of certain CMOs, depending on their
structure and the rate of pre-payments, can be volatile. Some CMOs may not be as
liquid as other securities.
If collection of principal (including prepayments) on the mortgage
loans during any semiannual payment period is not sufficient to meet FHLMC's
minimum sinking fund obligation on the next sinking fund payment date, FHLMC
agrees to make up the deficiency from its general funds.
Criteria for the mortgage loans in the pool backing the CMOs are
identical to those of FHLMC PCs. FHLMC has the right to substitute collateral in
the event of delinquencies and/or defaults.
Other Mortgage-Backed Securities. The Adviser expects that governmental,
government-related or private entities may create mortgage loan pools and other
mortgage-related securities offering mortgage pass-through and
mortgage-collateralized investments in addition to those described above. The
mortgages underlying these securities may include alternative mortgage
instruments, that is, mortgage instruments whose principal or interest payments
may vary or whose terms to maturity may differ from customary long-term fixed
rate mortgages.
Borrowing. As a matter of fundamental policy, the Fund will not borrow money,
except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or
modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time. While
the Directors do not currently intend for the Fund to borrow for investment
leverage purposes, if such a strategy were implemented in the future it would
increase the Fund's volatility and the risk of loss in a declining market.
Borrowing by the Fund will involve special risk considerations. Although the
principal of the Fund's borrowings will be fixed, the Fund's assets may change
in value during the time a borrowing is outstanding, thus increasing exposure to
capital risk.
Strategic Transactions and Derivatives. The Fund may, but is not required to,
utilize various other investment strategies as described below for a variety of
purposes, such as hedging various market risks, managing the effective maturity
or duration of fixed-income securities in the Fund's portfolio, or enhancing
potential gain. These strategies may be executed through the use of derivative
contracts.
In the course of pursuing these investment strategies, the Fund may
purchase and sell exchange-listed and over-the-counter put and call options on
securities, equity and fixed-income indices and other instruments, purchase and
sell futures contracts and options thereon, enter into various transactions such
as swaps, caps, floors, collars, currency forward contracts, currency futures
contracts, currency swaps or options on currencies, or currency futures and
various other currency transactions (collectively, all the above are called
"Strategic Transactions"). In addition, strategic transactions may also include
new techniques, instruments or strategies that are permitted as regulatory
changes occur. Strategic Transactions may be used without limit (subject to
certain limitations imposed by the 1940 Act) to attempt to protect against
possible changes in the market value of securities held in or to be purchased
for
19
<PAGE>
the Fund's portfolio resulting from securities markets or currency exchange rate
fluctuations, to protect the Fund's unrealized gains in the value of its
portfolio securities, to facilitate the sale of such securities for investment
purposes, to manage the effective maturity or duration of fixed-income
securities in the Fund's portfolio, or to establish a position in the
derivatives markets as a substitute for purchasing or selling particular
securities. Some Strategic Transactions may also be used to enhance potential
gain although no more than 5% of the Fund's assets will be committed to
Strategic Transactions entered into for non-hedging purposes. Any or all of
these investment techniques may be used at any time and in any combination, and
there is no particular strategy that dictates the use of one technique rather
than another, as use of any Strategic Transaction is a function of numerous
variables including market conditions. The ability of the Fund to utilize these
Strategic Transactions successfully will depend on the Adviser's ability to
predict pertinent market movements, which cannot be assured. The Fund will
comply with applicable regulatory requirements when implementing these
strategies, techniques and instruments. Strategic Transactions will not be used
to alter fundamental investment purposes and characteristics of the Fund, and
the Fund will segregate assets (or as provided by applicable regulations, enter
into certain offsetting positions) to cover its obligations under options,
futures and swaps to limit leveraging of the Fund.
Strategic Transactions, including derivative contracts, have risks
associated with them including possible default by the other party to the
transaction, illiquidity and, to the extent the Adviser's view as to certain
market movements is incorrect, the risk that the use of such Strategic
Transactions could result in losses greater than if they had not been used. Use
of put and call options may result in losses to the Fund, force the sale or
purchase of portfolio securities at inopportune times or for prices higher than
(in the case of put options) or lower than (in the case of call options) current
market values, limit the amount of appreciation the Fund can realize on its
investments or cause the Fund to hold a security it might otherwise sell. The
use of currency transactions can result in the Fund incurring losses as a result
of a number of factors including the imposition of exchange controls, suspension
of settlements, or the inability to deliver or receive a specified currency. The
use of options and futures transactions entails certain other risks. In
particular, the variable degree of correlation between price movements of
futures contracts and price movements in the related portfolio position of the
Fund creates the possibility that losses on the hedging instrument may be
greater than gains in the value of the Fund's position. In addition, futures and
options markets may not be liquid in all circumstances and certain
over-the-counter options may have no markets. As a result, in certain markets,
the Fund might not be able to close out a transaction without incurring
substantial losses, if at all. Although the use of futures and options
transactions for hedging should tend to minimize the risk of loss due to a
decline in the value of the hedged position, at the same time they tend to limit
any potential gain which might result from an increase in value of such
position. Finally, the daily variation margin requirements for futures contracts
would create a greater ongoing potential financial risk than would purchases of
options, where the exposure is limited to the cost of the initial premium.
Losses resulting from the use of Strategic Transactions would reduce net asset
value, and possibly income, and such losses can be greater than if the Strategic
Transactions had not been utilized.
General Characteristics of Options. Put options and call options typically have
similar structural characteristics and operational mechanics regardless of the
underlying instrument on which they are purchased or sold. Thus, the following
general discussion relates to each of the particular types of options discussed
in greater detail below. In addition, many Strategic Transactions involving
options require segregation of Fund assets in special accounts, as described
below under "Use of Segregated and Other Special Accounts."
A put option gives the purchaser of the option, upon payment of a
premium, the right to sell, and the writer the obligation to buy, the underlying
security, commodity, index, currency or other instrument at the exercise price.
For instance, the Fund's purchase of a put option on a security might be
designed to protect its holdings in the underlying instrument (or, in some
cases, a similar instrument) against a substantial decline in the market value
by giving the Fund the right to sell such instrument at the option exercise
price. A call option, upon payment of a premium, gives the purchaser of the
option the right to buy, and the seller the obligation to sell, the underlying
instrument at the exercise price. The Fund's purchase of a call option on a
security, financial future, index, currency or other instrument might be
intended to protect the Fund against an increase in the price of the underlying
instrument that it intends to purchase in the future by fixing the price at
which it may purchase such instrument. An American style put or call option may
be exercised at any time during the option period while a European style put
20
<PAGE>
or call option may be exercised only upon expiration or during a fixed period
prior thereto. The Fund is authorized to purchase and sell exchange listed
options and over-the-counter options ("OTC options"). Exchange listed options
are issued by a regulated intermediary such as the Options Clearing Corporation
("OCC"), which guarantees the performance of the obligations of the parties to
such options. The discussion below uses the OCC as an example, but is also
applicable to other financial intermediaries.
With certain exceptions, OCC issued and exchange listed options
generally settle by physical delivery of the underlying security or currency,
although in the future cash settlement may become available. Index options and
Eurodollar instruments are cash settled for the net amount, if any, by which the
option is "in-the-money" (i.e., where the value of the underlying instrument
exceeds, in the case of a call option, or is less than, in the case of a put
option, the exercise price of the option) at the time the option is exercised.
Frequently, rather than taking or making delivery of the underlying instrument
through the process of exercising the option, listed options are closed by
entering into offsetting purchase or sale transactions that do not result in
ownership of the new option.
The Fund's ability to close out its position as a purchaser or seller
of an OCC or exchange listed put or call option is dependent, in part, upon the
liquidity of the option market. Among the possible reasons for the absence of a
liquid option market on an exchange are: (i) insufficient trading interest in
certain options; (ii) restrictions on transactions imposed by an exchange; (iii)
trading halts, suspensions or other restrictions imposed with respect to
particular classes or series of options or underlying securities including
reaching daily price limits; (iv) interruption of the normal operations of the
OCC or an exchange; (v) inadequacy of the facilities of an exchange or OCC to
handle current trading volume; or (vi) a decision by one or more exchanges to
discontinue the trading of options (or a particular class or series of options),
in which event the relevant market for that option on that exchange would cease
to exist, although outstanding options on that exchange would generally continue
to be exercisable in accordance with their terms.
The hours of trading for listed options may not coincide with the hours
during which the underlying financial instruments are traded. To the extent that
the option markets close before the markets for the underlying financial
instruments, significant price and rate movements can take place in the
underlying markets that cannot be reflected in the option markets.
OTC options are purchased from or sold to securities dealers, financial
institutions or other parties ("Counterparties") through direct bilateral
agreement with the Counterparty. In contrast to exchange listed options, which
generally have standardized terms and performance mechanics, all the terms of an
OTC option, including such terms as method of settlement, term, exercise price,
premium, guarantees and security, are set by negotiation of the parties. The
Fund will only sell OTC options (other than OTC currency options) that are
subject to a buy-back provision permitting the Fund to require the Counterparty
to sell the option back to the Fund at a formula price within seven days. The
Fund expects generally to enter into OTC options that have cash settlement
provisions, although it is not required to do so.
Unless the parties provide for it, there is no central clearing or
guaranty function in an OTC option. As a result, if the Counterparty fails to
make or take delivery of the security, currency or other instrument underlying
an OTC option it has entered into with the Fund or fails to make a cash
settlement payment due in accordance with the terms of that option, the Fund
will lose any premium it paid for the option as well as any anticipated benefit
of the transaction. Accordingly, the Adviser must assess the creditworthiness of
each such Counterparty or any guarantor or credit enhancement of the
Counterparty's credit to determine the likelihood that the terms of the OTC
option will be satisfied. The Fund will engage in OTC option transactions only
with U.S. government securities dealers recognized by the Federal Reserve Bank
of New York as "primary dealers" or broker/dealers, domestic or foreign banks or
other financial institutions which have received (or the guarantors of the
obligation of which have received) a short-term credit rating of A-1 from S&P or
P-1 from Moody's or an equivalent rating from any nationally recognized
statistical rating organization ("NRSRO") or, in the case of OTC currency
transactions, are determined to be of equivalent credit quality by the Adviser.
The staff of the SEC currently takes the position that OTC options purchased by
the Fund, and portfolio securities "covering" the amount of the Fund's
obligation
21
<PAGE>
pursuant to an OTC option sold by it (the cost of the sell-back plus the
in-the-money amount, if any) are illiquid, and are subject to the Fund's
limitation on investing no more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid
securities.
If the Fund sells a call option, the premium that it receives may serve
as a partial hedge, to the extent of the option premium, against a decrease in
the value of the underlying securities or instruments in its portfolio or will
increase the Fund's income. The sale of put options can also provide income.
The Fund may purchase and sell call options on securities including
U.S. Treasury and agency securities, mortgage-backed securities, foreign
sovereign debt, corporate debt securities, equity securities (including
convertible securities) and Eurodollar instruments that are traded on U.S. and
foreign securities exchanges and in the over-the-counter markets, and on
securities indices, currencies and futures contracts. All calls sold by the Fund
must be "covered" (i.e., the Fund must own the securities or futures contract
subject to the call) or must meet the asset segregation requirements described
below as long as the call is outstanding. Even though the Fund will receive the
option premium to help protect it against loss, a call sold by the Fund exposes
the Fund during the term of the option to possible loss of opportunity to
realize appreciation in the market price of the underlying security or
instrument and may require the Fund to hold a security or instrument which it
might otherwise have sold.
The Fund may purchase and sell put options on securities including U.S.
Treasury and agency securities, mortgage-backed securities, foreign sovereign
debt, corporate debt securities, equity securities (including convertible
securities) and Eurodollar instruments (whether or not it holds the above
securities in its portfolio), and on securities indices, currencies and futures
contracts other than futures on individual corporate debt and individual equity
securities. The Fund will not sell put options if, as a result, more than 50% of
the Fund's total assets would be required to be segregated to cover its
potential obligations under such put options other than those with respect to
futures and options thereon. In selling put options, there is a risk that the
Fund may be required to buy the underlying security at a disadvantageous price
above the market price.
General Characteristics of Futures. The Fund may enter into futures contracts or
purchase or sell put and call options on such futures as a hedge against
anticipated interest rate, currency or equity market changes, and for duration
management, risk management and return enhancement purposes. Futures are
generally bought and sold on the commodities exchanges where they are listed
with payment of initial and variation margin as described below. The sale of a
futures contract creates a firm obligation by the Fund, as seller, to deliver to
the buyer the specific type of financial instrument called for in the contract
at a specific future time for a specified price (or, with respect to index
futures and Eurodollar instruments, the net cash amount). Options on futures
contracts are similar to options on securities except that an option on a
futures contract gives the purchaser the right in return for the premium paid to
assume a position in a futures contract and obligates the seller to deliver such
position.
The Fund's use of futures and options thereon will in all cases be
consistent with applicable regulatory requirements and in particular the rules
and regulations of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and will be entered
into for bona fide hedging, risk management (including duration management) or
other portfolio and return enhancement management purposes. Typically,
maintaining a futures contract or selling an option thereon requires the Fund to
deposit with a financial intermediary as security for its obligations an amount
of cash or other specified assets (initial margin) which initially is typically
1% to 10% of the face amount of the contract (but may be higher in some
circumstances). Additional cash or assets (variation margin) may be required to
be deposited thereafter on a daily basis as the mark to market value of the
contract fluctuates. The purchase of an option on financial futures involves
payment of a premium for the option without any further obligation on the part
of the Fund. If the Fund exercises an option on a futures contract it will be
obligated to post initial margin (and potential subsequent variation margin) for
the resulting futures position just as it would for any position. Futures
contracts and options thereon are generally settled by entering into an
offsetting transaction but there can be no assurance that the position can be
offset prior to settlement at an advantageous price, nor that delivery will
occur.
The Fund will not enter into a futures contract or related option
(except for closing transactions) if, immediately thereafter, the sum of the
amount of its initial margin and premiums on open futures contracts and options
thereon would exceed 5% of the Fund's total assets (taken at current value);
however, in the case of an
22
<PAGE>
option that is in-the-money at the time of the purchase, the in-the-money amount
may be excluded in calculating the 5% limitation. The segregation requirements
with respect to futures contracts and options thereon are described below.
Options on Securities Indices and Other Financial Indices. The Fund also may
purchase and sell call and put options on securities indices and other financial
indices and in so doing can achieve many of the same objectives it would achieve
through the sale or purchase of options on individual securities or other
instruments. Options on securities indices and other financial indices are
similar to options on a security or other instrument except that, rather than
settling by physical delivery of the underlying instrument, they settle by cash
settlement, i.e., an option on an index gives the holder the right to receive,
upon exercise of the option, an amount of cash if the closing level of the index
upon which the option is based exceeds, in the case of a call, or is less than,
in the case of a put, the exercise price of the option (except if, in the case
of an OTC option, physical delivery is specified). This amount of cash is equal
to the excess of the closing price of the index over the exercise price of the
option, which also may be multiplied by a formula value. The seller of the
option is obligated, in return for the premium received, to make delivery of
this amount. The gain or loss on an option on an index depends on price
movements in the instruments making up the market, market segment, industry or
other composite on which the underlying index is based, rather than price
movements in individual securities, as is the case with respect to options on
securities.
Currency Transactions. The Fund may engage in currency transactions with
Counterparties primarily in order to hedge, or manage the risk of the value of
portfolio holdings denominated in particular currencies against fluctuations in
relative value. Currency transactions include forward currency contracts,
exchange listed currency futures, exchange listed and OTC options on currencies,
and currency swaps. A forward currency contract involves a privately negotiated
obligation to purchase or sell (with delivery generally required) a specific
currency at a future date, which may be any fixed number of days from the date
of the contract agreed upon by the parties, at a price set at the time of the
contract. A currency swap is an agreement to exchange cash flows based on the
notional difference among two or more currencies and operates similarly to an
interest rate swap, which is described below. The Fund may enter into currency
transactions with Counterparties which have received (or the guarantors of the
obligations which have received) a credit rating of A-1 or P-1 by S&P or
Moody's, respectively, or that have an equivalent rating from a NRSRO or (except
for OTC currency options) are determined to be of equivalent credit quality by
the Adviser.
The Fund's dealings in forward currency contracts and other currency
transactions such as futures, options, options on futures and swaps generally
will be limited to hedging involving either specific transactions or portfolio
positions except as described below. Transaction hedging is entering into a
currency transaction with respect to specific assets or liabilities of the Fund,
which will generally arise in connection with the purchase or sale of its
portfolio securities or the receipt of income therefrom. Position hedging is
entering into a currency transaction with respect to portfolio security
positions denominated or generally quoted in that currency.
The Fund generally will not enter into a transaction to hedge currency
exposure to an extent greater, after netting all transactions intended wholly or
partially to offset other transactions, than the aggregate market value (at the
time of entering into the transaction) of the securities held in its portfolio
that are denominated or generally quoted in or currently convertible into such
currency, other than with respect to proxy hedging or cross hedging as described
below.
The Fund may also cross-hedge currencies by entering into transactions
to purchase or sell one or more currencies that are expected to decline in value
relative to other currencies to which the Fund has or in which the Fund expects
to have portfolio exposure.
To reduce the effect of currency fluctuations on the value of existing
or anticipated holdings of portfolio securities, the Fund may also engage in
proxy hedging. Proxy hedging is often used when the currency to which the Fund's
portfolio is exposed is difficult to hedge or to hedge against the dollar. Proxy
hedging entails entering into a commitment or option to sell a currency whose
changes in value are generally considered to be correlated to a currency or
currencies in which some or all of the Fund's portfolio securities are or are
expected to be denominated,
23
<PAGE>
in exchange for U.S. dollars. The amount of the commitment or option would not
exceed the value of the Fund's securities denominated in correlated currencies.
For example, if the Adviser considers that the Austrian schilling is correlated
to the German deutschemark (the "D-mark"), the Fund holds securities denominated
in schillings and the Adviser believes that the value of schillings will decline
against the U.S. dollar, the Adviser may enter into a commitment or option to
sell D-marks and buy dollars. Currency hedging involves some of the same risks
and considerations as other transactions with similar instruments. Currency
transactions can result in losses to the Fund if the currency being hedged
fluctuates in value to a degree or in a direction that is not anticipated.
Further, there is the risk that the perceived correlation between various
currencies may not be present or may not be present during the particular time
that the Fund is engaging in proxy hedging. If the Fund enters into a currency
hedging transaction, the Fund will comply with the asset segregation
requirements described below.
Risks of Currency Transactions. Currency transactions are subject to risks
different from those of other portfolio transactions. Because currency control
is of great importance to the issuing governments and influences economic
planning and policy, purchases and sales of currency and related instruments can
be negatively affected by government exchange controls, blockages, and
manipulations or exchange restrictions imposed by governments. These can result
in losses to the Fund if it is unable to deliver or receive currency or funds in
settlement of obligations and could also cause hedges it has entered into to be
rendered useless, resulting in full currency exposure as well as incurring
transaction costs. Buyers and sellers of currency futures are subject to the
same risks that apply to the use of futures generally. Further, settlement of a
currency futures contract for the purchase of most currencies must occur at a
bank based in the issuing nation. Trading options on currency futures is
relatively new, and the ability to establish and close out positions on such
options is subject to the maintenance of a liquid market which may not always be
available. Currency exchange rates may fluctuate based on factors extrinsic to
that country's economy.
Combined Transactions. The Fund may enter into multiple transactions, including
multiple options transactions, multiple futures transactions, multiple currency
transactions (including forward currency contracts) and multiple interest rate
transactions and any combination of futures, options, currency and interest rate
transactions ("component" transactions), instead of a single Strategic
Transaction, as part of a single or combined strategy when, in the opinion of
the Adviser, it is in the best interests of the Fund to do so. A combined
transaction will usually contain elements of risk that are present in each of
its component transactions. Although combined transactions are normally entered
into based on the Adviser's judgment that the combined strategies will reduce
risk or otherwise more effectively achieve the desired portfolio management
goal, it is possible that the combination will instead increase such risks or
hinder achievement of the portfolio management objective.
Swaps, Caps, Floors and Collars. Among the Strategic Transactions into which the
Fund may enter are interest rate, currency, index and other swaps and the
purchase or sale of related caps, floors and collars. The Fund expects to enter
into these transactions primarily to preserve a return or spread on a particular
investment or portion of its portfolio, to protect against currency
fluctuations, as a duration management technique or to protect against any
increase in the price of securities the Fund anticipates purchasing at a later
date. The Fund will not sell interest rate caps or floors where it does not own
securities or other instruments providing the income stream the Fund may be
obligated to pay. Interest rate swaps involve the exchange by the Fund with
another party of their respective commitments to pay or receive interest, e.g.,
an exchange of floating rate payments for fixed rate payments with respect to a
notional amount of principal. A currency swap is an agreement to exchange cash
flows on a notional amount of two or more currencies based on the relative value
differential among them and an index swap is an agreement to swap cash flows on
a notional amount based on changes in the values of the reference indices. The
purchase of a cap entitles the purchaser to receive payments on a notional
principal amount from the party selling such cap to the extent that a specified
index exceeds a predetermined interest rate or amount. The purchase of a floor
entitles the purchaser to receive payments on a notional principal amount from
the party selling such floor to the extent that a specified index falls below a
predetermined interest rate or amount. A collar is a combination of a cap and a
floor that preserves a certain return within a predetermined range of interest
rates or values.
The Fund will usually enter into swaps on a net basis, i.e., the two
payment streams are netted out in a cash settlement on the payment date or dates
specified in the instrument, with the Fund receiving or paying, as the case
24
<PAGE>
may be, only the net amount of the two payments. Inasmuch as the Fund will
segregate assets (or enter into offsetting positions) to cover its obligations
under swaps, the Adviser and the Fund believe such obligations do not constitute
senior securities under the 1940 Act and, accordingly, will not treat them as
being subject to its borrowing restrictions. The Fund will not enter into any
swap, cap, floor or collar transaction unless, at the time of entering into such
transaction, the unsecured long-term debt of the Counterparty, combined with any
credit enhancements, is rated at least A by S&P or Moody's or has an equivalent
rating from a NRSRO or is determined to be of equivalent credit quality by the
Adviser. If there is a default by the Counterparty, the Fund may have
contractual remedies pursuant to the agreements related to the transaction. The
swap market has grown substantially in recent years with a large number of banks
and investment banking firms acting both as principals and as agents utilizing
standardized swap documentation. As a result, the swap market has become
relatively liquid. Caps, floors and collars are more recent innovations for
which standardized documentation has not yet been fully developed and,
accordingly, they are less liquid than swaps.
Eurodollar Instruments. The Fund may make investments in Eurodollar instruments.
Eurodollar instruments are U.S. dollar-denominated futures contracts or options
thereon which are linked to the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR"),
although foreign currency-denominated instruments are available from time to
time. Eurodollar futures contracts enable purchasers to obtain a fixed rate for
the lending of funds and sellers to obtain a fixed rate for borrowings. The Fund
might use Eurodollar futures contracts and options thereon to hedge against
changes in LIBOR, to which many interest rate swaps and fixed income instruments
are linked.
Risks of Strategic Transactions Outside the U.S. When conducted outside the
U.S., Strategic Transactions may not be regulated as rigorously as in the U.S.,
may not involve a clearing mechanism and related guarantees, and are subject to
the risk of governmental actions affecting trading in, or the prices of, foreign
securities, currencies and other instruments. The value of such positions also
could be adversely affected by: (i) other complex foreign political, legal and
economic factors, (ii) lesser availability than in the U.S. of data on which to
make trading decisions, (iii) delays in the Fund's ability to act upon economic
events occurring in foreign markets during non-business hours in the U.S., (iv)
the imposition of different exercise and settlement terms and procedures and
margin requirements than in the U.S., and (v) lower trading volume and
liquidity.
Use of Segregated and Other Special Accounts. Many Strategic Transactions, in
addition to other requirements, require that the Fund segregate cash or liquid
assets with its custodian to the extent Fund obligations are not otherwise
"covered" through ownership of the underlying security, financial instrument or
currency. In general, either the full amount of any obligation by the Fund to
pay or deliver securities or assets must be covered at all times by the
securities, instruments or currency required to be delivered, or, subject to any
regulatory restrictions, an amount of cash or liquid assets at least equal to
the current amount of the obligation must be segregated with the custodian. The
segregated assets cannot be sold or transferred unless equivalent assets are
substituted in their place or it is no longer necessary to segregate them. For
example, a call option written by the Fund will require the Fund to hold the
securities subject to the call (or securities convertible into the needed
securities without additional consideration) or to segregate cash or liquid
assets sufficient to purchase and deliver the securities if the call is
exercised. A call option sold by the Fund on an index will require the Fund to
own portfolio securities which correlate with the index or to segregate cash or
liquid assets equal to the excess of the index value over the exercise price on
a current basis. A put option written by the Fund requires the Fund to segregate
cash or liquid assets equal to the exercise price.
Except when the Fund enters into a forward contract for the purchase or
sale of a security denominated in a particular currency, which requires no
segregation, a currency contract which obligates the Fund to buy or sell
currency will generally require the Fund to hold an amount of that currency or
liquid assets denominated in that currency equal to the Fund's obligations or to
segregate cash or liquid assets equal to the amount of the Fund's obligation.
OTC options entered into by the Fund, including those on securities,
currency, financial instruments or indices and OCC issued and exchange listed
index options, will generally provide for cash settlement. As a result, when the
Fund sells these instruments it will only segregate an amount of cash or liquid
assets equal to its accrued
25
<PAGE>
net obligations, as there is no requirement for payment or delivery of amounts
in excess of the net amount. These amounts will equal 100% of the exercise price
in the case of a non cash-settled put, the same as an OCC guaranteed listed
option sold by the Fund, or the in-the-money amount plus any sell-back formula
amount in the case of a cash-settled put or call. In addition, when the Fund
sells a call option on an index at a time when the in-the-money amount exceeds
the exercise price, the Fund will segregate, until the option expires or is
closed out, cash or cash equivalents equal in value to such excess. OCC issued
and exchange listed options sold by the Fund other than those above generally
settle with physical delivery, or with an election of either physical delivery
or cash settlement and the Fund will segregate an amount of cash or liquid
assets equal to the full value of the option. OTC options settling with physical
delivery, or with an election of either physical delivery or cash settlement
will be treated the same as other options settling with physical delivery.
In the case of a futures contract or an option thereon, the Fund must
deposit initial margin and possible daily variation margin in addition to
segregating cash or liquid assets sufficient to meet its obligation to purchase
or provide securities or currencies, or to pay the amount owed at the expiration
of an index-based futures contract. Such liquid assets may consist of cash, cash
equivalents, liquid debt or equity securities or other acceptable assets.
With respect to swaps, the Fund will accrue the net amount of the
excess, if any, of its obligations over its entitlements with respect to each
swap on a daily basis and will segregate an amount of cash or liquid assets
having a value equal to the accrued excess. Caps, floors and collars require
segregation of assets with a value equal to the Fund's net obligation, if any.
Strategic Transactions may be covered by other means when consistent
with applicable regulatory policies. The Fund may also enter into offsetting
transactions so that its combined position, coupled with any segregated assets,
equals its net outstanding obligation in related options and Strategic
Transactions. For example, the Fund could purchase a put option if the strike
price of that option is the same or higher than the strike price of a put option
sold by the Fund. Moreover, instead of segregating cash or liquid assets if the
Fund held a futures or forward contract, it could purchase a put option on the
same futures or forward contract with a strike price as high or higher than the
price of the contract held. Other Strategic Transactions may also be offset in
combinations. If the offsetting transaction terminates at the time of or after
the primary transaction no segregation is required, but if it terminates prior
to such time, cash or liquid assets equal to any remaining obligation would need
to be segregated.
DIVIDENDS, DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
Dividends. The Fund intends to follow the practice of distributing substantially
all of its investment company taxable income which includes any excess of net
realized short-term capital gains over net realized long-term capital losses.
The Fund may follow the practice of distributing the entire excess of net
realized long-term capital gains over net realized short-term capital losses.
However, the Fund may retain all or part of such gain for reinvestment, after
paying the related federal taxes for which shareholders may then be able to
claim a credit against their federal tax liability. If the Fund does not
distribute the amount of capital gain and/or net investment income required to
be distributed by an excise tax provision of the Code, the Fund may be subject
to that excise tax. In certain circumstances, the Fund may determine that it is
in the interest of shareholders to distribute less than the required amount.
(See "Taxes" hereafter.)
The Fund intends to distribute investment company taxable income, and
any net realized capital gains in December each year. Any dividends or capital
gains distributions declared in October, November or December with a record date
in such month and paid during the following January will be treated by
shareholders for federal income tax purposes as if received on December 31 of
the calendar year declared. Additional distributions may be made if necessary.
The level of income dividends per share (as a percentage of net asset
value) will be lower for Class B and Class C shares than for Class A shares
primarily as a result of the distribution services fee applicable to Class B and
Class C shares. Distributions of capital gains, if any, will be paid in the same
proportion for each class.
26
<PAGE>
Dividends will be reinvested in shares of the same class of the Fund
unless shareholders indicate in writing that they wish to receive them in cash
or in shares of other Kemper Funds as provided in the prospectus.
Taxes. The Fund intends to continue to qualify as a regulated investment company
under Subchapter M of the Code, and, if so qualified, the Fund generally will
not be liable for federal income taxes to the extent its earnings are
distributed. To so qualify, the Fund must satisfy certain income and asset
diversification requirements, and must distribute to its shareholders at least
90% of its investment company taxable income (including net short-term capital
gain over net long-term capital losses).
If for any taxable year a Fund does not qualify for the special federal
income tax treatment afforded regulated investment companies, all of its taxable
income will be subject to federal income tax at regular corporate rates (without
any deduction for distributions to its shareholders). In such event, dividend
distributions would be taxable to shareholders to the extent of a Fund's
earnings and profits, and would be eligible for the dividends-received deduction
in the case of corporate shareholders.
The Fund is subject to a 4% nondeductible excise tax on amounts required to be
but not distributed under a prescribed formula. The formula requires the Fund to
distribute to shareholders during a calendar year an amount equal to at least
98% of the Fund's ordinary income for the calendar year, at least 98% of the
excess of its capital gains over capital losses (adjusted for certain ordinary
losses) realized during the one-year period ending October 31 during such year,
and all ordinary income and capital gains for prior years that were not
previously distributed.
Investment company taxable income generally includes dividends,
interest, net short-term capital gains in excess of net long-term capital
losses, and certain foreign currency gains, if any, less expenses and certain
foreign currency losses, if any. Net realized capital gains for a fiscal year
are computed by taking into account any capital loss carryforward of the Fund.
Distributions of investment company taxable income are taxable to
shareholders as ordinary income.
If any net realized long-term capital gains in excess of net realized
short-term capital losses are retained by a Fund for reinvestment, requiring
federal income taxes to be paid thereon by the Fund, the Fund intends to elect
to treat such capital gains as having been distributed to shareholders. As a
result, each shareholder will report such capital gains as long-term capital
gains, will be able to claim a relative share of federal income taxes paid by
the Fund on such gains as a credit against personal federal income tax
liability, and will be entitled to increase the adjusted tax basis on Fund
shares by the difference between such reported gains and the individual tax
credit.
Dividends from domestic corporations are expected to comprise some
portion of the Fund's gross income. To the extent that such dividends constitute
any of the Fund's gross income, a portion of the income distributions of the
Fund will be eligible for the deduction for dividends received by corporations.
Shareholders will be informed of the portion of dividends which so qualify. The
dividends-received deduction is reduced to the extent the shares, with respect
to which dividends are received are treated as debt-financed under federal
income tax law and is eliminated if either those shares or the shares of the
Fund are deemed to have been held by the Fund or the shareholders, as the case
may be, for less than 46 days during the 90 day period beginning 45 days before
the shares become ex-dividend.
Properly designated distributions of the excess of net long-term
capital gain over net short-term capital loss are taxable to shareholders as
long-term capital gains, regardless of the length of time the shares of a Fund
have been held by such shareholders. Such distributions are not eligible for the
dividends-received deduction. Any loss realized upon the redemption of shares
held at the time of redemption for six months or less from the date of their
purchase will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any
amounts treated as distributions of long-term capital gain during such six-month
period.
27
<PAGE>
Distributions of investment company taxable income and net realized capital
gains will be taxable as described above, whether received in shares or in cash.
Shareholders electing to receive distributions in the form of additional shares
will have a cost basis for federal income tax purposes in each share so received
equal to the net asset value of a share on the reinvestment date.
If shares are held in a tax-deferred account, such as a retirement
plan, income and gain will not be taxable each year. Instead, the taxable
portion of amounts held in a tax-deferred account generally will be subject to
tax as ordinary income only when distributed from that account.
All distributions of investment company taxable income and net realized
capital gain, whether received in shares or in cash, must be reported by each
shareholder on his or her federal income tax return. Dividends and capital gains
distributions declared in October, November or December and payable to
shareholders of record in such a month will be deemed to have been received by
shareholders on December 31 if paid during January of the following year.
Redemptions of shares, including exchanges for shares of another Kemper fund,
may result in tax consequences (gain or loss) to the shareholder and are also
subject to these reporting requirements.
A single individual who is not an active participant in an
employer-maintained retirement plan, such as a pension or profit sharing plan, a
governmental plan, a simplified employee pension plan, a simple retirement
account, or a tax-deferred annuity plan or account (a "qualified plan"), and a
married individual who is not an active participant in a qualified plan and
whose spouse is also not an active participant in a qualified plan, are eligible
to make tax deductible contributions of up to $2,000 to an IRA prior to the year
such individual attains age 70 1/2. In addition, certain individuals who are
active participants in qualified plans (or who have spouses who are active
participants) are also eligible to make tax-deductible contributions to an IRA;
the annual amount, if any, of the contribution which such an individual will be
eligible to deduct will be determined by the amount of his, her, or their
adjusted gross income for the year. If an individual is an active participant,
the deductibility of his or her IRA contributions in 2000 is phased out if the
individual has gross income between $32,000 and $42,000 and is single, if the
individual has gross income between $52,000 and $62,000 and is married filing
jointly, or if the individual has gross income between $0 and $10,000 and is
married filing separately; the phase-out ranges for individuals who are single
or married filing jointly are subject to annual adjustment through 2005 and
2007, respectively. If an individual is married filing jointly and the
individual's spouse is an active participant but the individual is not, the
deductibility of his or her IRA contributions is phased out if their combined
gross income is between $150,000 and $160,000. Whenever the adjusted gross
income limitation prohibits an individual from contributing what would otherwise
be the maximum tax-deductible contribution he or she could make, the individual
will be eligible to contribute the difference to an IRA in the form of
nondeductible contributions.
28
<PAGE>
Distributions by the Fund result in a reduction in the net asset value
of the Fund's shares. Should a distribution reduce the net asset value below a
shareholder's cost basis, such distribution would nevertheless be taxable to the
shareholder as ordinary income or capital gain as described above, even though,
from an investment standpoint, it may constitute a partial return of capital. In
particular, investors should consider the tax implications of buying shares just
prior to a distribution. The price of shares purchased at that time includes the
amount of the forthcoming distribution. Those purchasing just prior to a
distribution will then receive a partial return of capital upon the
distribution, which will nevertheless be taxable to them.
Dividend and interest income received by the Fund from sources outside
the U.S. may be subject to withholding and other taxes imposed by such foreign
jurisdictions. Tax conventions between certain countries and the U.S. may reduce
or eliminate these foreign taxes, however, and foreign countries generally do
not impose taxes on capital gains in respect of investments by foreign
investors.
The Fund intends to qualify for and may make the election permitted
under Section 853 of the Code so that shareholders may (subject to limitations)
be able to claim a credit or deduction on their federal income tax returns for,
and will be required to treat as part of the amounts distributed to them, their
pro rata portion of qualified taxes paid by the Fund to foreign countries (which
taxes relate primarily to investment income). The Fund may make an election
under Section 853 of the Code, provided that more than 50% of the value of the
total assets of the Fund at the close of the taxable year consists of securities
in foreign corporations. The foreign tax credit available to shareholders is
subject to certain limitations imposed by the Code except in the case of certain
electing individual shareholders who have limited creditable foreign taxes and
no foreign source income other than passive investment-type income. Furthermore,
the foreign tax credit is eliminated with respect to foreign taxes withheld on
dividends if the dividend-paying shares or the shares of the Fund are held by
the Fund or the shareholder, as the case may be, for less than 16 days (46 days
in the case of preferred shares) during the 30-day period (90-day period for
preferred shares) beginning 15 days (45 days for preferred shares) before the
shares become ex-dividend. In addition, if the Fund fails to satisfy these
holding period requirements, it cannot elect under Section 853 to pass through
to shareholders the ability to claim a deduction for the related foreign taxes.
The Fund may invest in shares of certain foreign corporations which may
be classified under the Code as passive foreign investment companies ("PFICs").
If the Fund receives a so-called "excess distribution" with respect to PFIC
stock, the Fund itself may be subject to a tax on a portion of the excess
distribution. Certain distributions from a PFIC as well as gains from the sale
of the PFIC shares are treated as "excess distributions." In general, under the
PFIC rules, an excess distribution is treated as having been realized ratably
over the period during which the Fund held the PFIC shares. The Fund will be
subject to tax on the portion, if any, of an excess distribution that is
allocated to prior Fund taxable years and an interest factor will be added to
the tax, as if the tax had been payable in such prior taxable years. Excess
distributions allocated to the current taxable year are characterized as
ordinary income even though, absent application of the PFIC rules, certain
excess distributions might have been classified as capital gain.
The Fund may make an election to mark to market its shares of these
foreign investment companies in lieu of being subject to U.S. federal income
taxation. At the end of each taxable year to which the election applies, the
Fund would report as ordinary income the amount by which the fair market value
of the foreign company's stock exceeds the Fund's adjusted basis in these
shares; any mark to market losses and any loss from an actual disposition of
shares would be deductible as ordinary loss to the extent of any net mark to
market gains included in income in prior years. The effect of the election would
be to treat excess distributions and gain on dispositions as ordinary income
which is not subject to the Fund level tax when distributed to shareholders as a
dividend. Alternatively, the Fund may elect to include as income and gain its
share of the ordinary earnings and net capital gain of certain foreign
investment companies in lieu of being taxed in the manner described above.
Equity options (including covered call options on portfolio stock)
written or purchased by the Fund will be subject to tax under Section 1234 of
the Code. In general, no loss is recognized by the Fund upon payment of a
premium in connection with the purchase of a put or call option. The character
of any gain or loss recognized (i.e., long-term or short-term) will generally
depend in the case of a lapse or sale of the option on the Fund's holding
29
<PAGE>
period for the option and in the case of an exercise of the option on the Fund's
holding period for the underlying security. The purchase of a put option may
constitute a short sale for federal income tax purposes, causing an adjustment
in the holding period of the underlying security or substantially identical
security in the Fund's portfolio. If the Fund writes a put or call option, no
gain is recognized upon its receipt of a premium. If the option lapses or is
closed out, any gain or loss is treated as a short-term capital gain or loss. If
a call option is exercised, any resulting gain or loss is a short-term or
long-term capital gain or loss depending on the holding period of the underlying
security. The exercise of a put option written by the Fund is not a taxable
transaction for the Fund.
Many futures and forward contracts entered into by the Fund, certain
forward foreign currency contracts, and all listed nonequity options written or
purchased by the Fund (including options on debt securities, options on futures
contracts, options on securities indices and options on broad-based stock
indices) will be governed by Section 1256 of the Code. Absent a tax election to
the contrary, gain or loss attributable to the lapse, exercise or closing out of
any such position generally will be treated as 60% long-term and 40% short-term
capital gain or loss, and on the last trading day of the Fund's fiscal year (and
generally, on October 31 for purposes of the 4% excise tax), all outstanding
Section 1256 positions will be marked-to-market (i.e. treated as if such
positions were closed out at their closing price on such day), with any
resulting gain or loss recognized as 60% long-term and 40% short-term capital
gain or loss. Under certain circumstances, entry into a futures contract to sell
a security may constitute a short sale for federal income tax purposes, causing
an adjustment in the holding period of the underlying security or a
substantially identical security in the Fund's portfolio. Under Section 988 of
the Code, discussed below, foreign currency gains or loss from foreign currency
related forward contracts, certain futures and similar financial instruments
entered into or acquired by the Fund will be treated as ordinary income or loss.
Under certain circumstances, entry into a futures contract to sell a security
may constitute a short sale for federal income tax purposes, causing an
adjustment in the holding period of the underlying security or a substantially
identical security in the Fund's portfolio.
Positions of the Fund consisting of at least one stock and at least one
stock option or other position with respect to a related security which
substantially diminishes the Fund's risk of loss with respect to such stock
could be treated as a "straddle" which is governed by Section 1092 of the Code,
the operation of which may cause deferral of losses, adjustments in the holding
periods of stock or securities and conversion of short-term capital losses into
long-term capital losses. An exception to these straddle rules exists for any
"qualified covered call options" on stock written by the Fund.
Positions of the Fund consisting of at least one position not governed
by Section 1256 and at least one future, forward, or nonequity option contract
which is governed by Section 1256 which substantially diminishes the Fund's risk
of loss with respect to such other position will be treated as a "mixed
straddle." -- Although mixed straddles are subject to the straddle rules of
Section 1092 of the Code, certain tax elections exist for them which reduce or
eliminate the operation of these rules. The Fund will monitor its transactions
in options and futures and may make certain tax elections in connection with
these investments.
Notwithstanding any of the foregoing, recent tax law changes may
require the Fund to recognize gain (but not loss) from a constructive sale of
certain "appreciated financial positions" if the Fund enters into a short sale,
offsetting notional principal contract, futures or forward contract transaction
with respect to the appreciated position or substantially identical property.
Appreciated financial positions subject to this constructive sale treatment are
interests (including options, futures and forward contracts and short sales) in
stock, partnership interests, certain actively traded trust instruments and
certain debt instruments. Constructive sale treatment of appreciated financial
positions does not apply to certain transactions closed in the 90-day period
ending with the 30th day after the close of the Fund's taxable year, if certain
conditions are met.
Similarly, if the Fund enters into a short sale of property that
becomes substantially worthless, the Fund will be required to recognize gain at
that time as though it had closed the short sale. Future regulations may apply
similar treatment to other strategic transactions with respect to property that
becomes substantially worthless.
30
<PAGE>
Under the Code, gains or losses attributable to fluctuations in
exchange rates which occur between the time the Fund accrues receivables or
liabilities denominated in a foreign currency and the time the Fund actually
collects such receivables, or pays such liabilities, generally are treated as
ordinary income or ordinary loss. Similarly, on disposition of debt securities
denominated in a foreign currency and on disposition of certain futures,
forward, or options contracts, gains or losses attributable to fluctuations in
the value of foreign currency between the date of acquisition of the security or
contract and the date of disposition are also treated as ordinary gain or loss.
These gains or losses, referred to under the Code as "Section 988" gains or
losses, may increase or decrease the amount of the Fund's investment company
taxable income to be distributed to its shareholders as ordinary income.
If the Fund holds zero coupon securities or other securities which are
issued at a discount a portion of the difference between the issue price and the
face value of such securities ("original issue discount") will be treated as
income to the Fund each year, even though the Fund will not receive cash
interest payments from these securities. This original issue discount (imputed
income) will comprise a part of the investment company taxable income of the
Fund which must be distributed to shareholders in order to maintain the
qualification of the Fund as a regulated investment company and to avoid federal
income tax at the level of the Fund. In addition, if the Fund invests in certain
high yield original issue discount obligations issued by corporations, a portion
of the original issue discount accruing on the obligation may be eligible for
the deduction for dividends received by corporations. In such an event, properly
designated dividends of investment company taxable income received from the
Portfolio by its corporate shareholders, to the extent attributable to such
portion of the accrued original issue discount, may be eligible for the
deduction received by corporations.
The Fund will be required to report to the IRS all distributions of
investment company taxable income and capital gains as well as gross proceeds
from the redemption or exchange of Fund shares, except in the case of certain
exempt shareholders. Under the backup withholding provisions of Section 3406 of
the Code, distributions of investment company taxable income and capital gains
and proceeds from the redemption or exchange of the shares of a regulated
investment company may be subject to withholding of federal income tax at the
rate of 31% in the case of non-exempt shareholders who fail to furnish the
investment company with their taxpayer identification numbers and with required
certifications regarding their status under the federal income tax law.
Withholding may also be required if the Fund is notified by the IRS or a broker
that the taxpayer identification number furnished by the shareholder is
incorrect or that the shareholder has previously failed to report interest or
dividend income. If the withholding provisions are applicable, any such
distributions and proceeds, whether taken in cash or reinvested in additional
shares, will be reduced by the amounts required to be withheld.
A sale or exchange of shares is a taxable event that may result in gain
or loss that will be a capital gain or loss held by the shareholder as a capital
asset, and may be long-term or short-term depending upon the shareholder's
holding period for the shares. A shareholder who has redeemed shares of the Fund
or any other Kemper Mutual Fund listed herein under "Special Features-Class A
Shares-Combined Purchases" (other than shares of Kemper Cash Reserves Fund not
acquired by exchange from another Kemper Mutual Fund) may reinvest the amount
redeemed at net asset value at the time of the reinvestment in shares of the
Fund or in shares of the other Kemper Mutual Funds within six months of the
redemption as described herein under "Redemption or Repurchase of
Shares-Reinvestment Privilege." If redeemed shares were held less than 91 days,
then the lesser of (a) the sales charge waived on the reinvested shares, or (b)
the sales charge incurred on the redeemed shares, is included in the basis of
the reinvested shares and is not included in the basis of the redeemed shares.
If a shareholder realizes a loss on the redemption or exchange of the Fund's
shares and reinvests in shares of another fund within 30 days before or after
the redemption or exchange, the transactions may be subject to the wash sale
rules resulting in a postponement of the recognition of such loss for federal
income tax purposes. An exchange of the Fund's shares for shares of another fund
is treated as a redemption and reinvestment for federal income tax purposes upon
which gain or loss may be recognized.
31
<PAGE>
After each transaction, shareholders will receive a confirmation
statement giving complete details of the transaction except that statements will
be sent quarterly for transactions involving reinvestment of dividends and
periodic investment and redemption programs. Information for income tax purposes
will be provided after the end of the calendar year. Shareholders are encouraged
to retain copies of their account confirmation statements or year-end statements
for tax reporting purposes. However, those who have incomplete records may
obtain historical account transaction information at a reasonable fee.
When more than one shareholder resides at the same address, certain
reports and communications to be delivered to such shareholders may be combined
in the same mailing package, and certain duplicate reports and communications
may be eliminated. Similarly, account statements to be sent to such shareholders
may be combined in the same mailing package or consolidated into a single
statement. However, a shareholder may request that the foregoing policies not be
applied to the shareholder's account. In January of each year the Corporation
issues to each shareholder a statement of the federal income tax status of all
distributions.
The foregoing discussion of U.S. federal income tax law relates solely
to the application of that law to U.S. persons, i.e., U.S. citizens and
residents and U.S. corporations, partnerships, trusts and estates. Each
shareholder who is not a U.S. person should consider the U.S. and foreign tax
consequences of ownership of shares of the Fund, including the possibility that
such a shareholder may be subject to a U.S. withholding tax at a rate of 30% (or
at a lower rate under an applicable income tax treaty) on amounts constituting
ordinary income received by him or her, where such amounts are treated as income
from U.S. sources under the Code.
Shareholders of the Fund may be subject to state, local and foreign
taxes on Fund distributions and disposition of Fund shares.
Retirement Plans
Shares of the Fund may be purchased as an investment in a number of
kinds of retirement plans, including qualified pension, profit sharing, money
purchase pension, and 401(k) plans, Code Section 403(b) custodial accounts, and
individual retirement accounts.
Individual Retirement Accounts. One of the tax-deferred retirement plan
accounts that may hold Fund shares is an individual retirement account ("IRA").
There are three kinds of IRAs that an individual may establish: traditional
IRAs, Roth IRAs and education IRAs. With a traditional IRA, an individual may
make a contribution of up to $2,000 or, if less, the amount of the individual's
earned income for any taxable year prior to the year the individual reaches 70
1/2. The contribution will be fully deductible if neither the individual nor his
or her spouse is an active participant in an employer's retirement plan. If an
individual is (or has a spouse who is) an active participant in an
employer-sponsored retirement plan, the amount, if any, of IRA contributions
that are deductible by such an individual is determined by the individual's (or,
if married and filing jointly, the couple's) adjusted gross income for the year.
Even if an individual is not permitted to make a deductible contribution to an
IRA for a taxable year, however, the individual nonetheless may make
nondeductible contributions up to $2,000, or 100% of earned income if less, for
that year. A higher-earning spouse also may contribute up to $2,000 per year to
the lower-earning spouse's own IRA, whether or not the lower-earning spouse has
earned income of less than $2,000, as long as the spouses' joint earned income
is at least equal to the combined amount of the spouses' IRA contributions for
the year. There are special rules for determining how withdrawals are to be
taxed if an IRA contains both deductible and nondeductible amounts. In general,
a proportionate amount of each withdrawal will be deemed to be made from
nondeductible contributions; amounts treated as a return of nondeductible
contributions will not be taxable. Lump sum distributions from another qualified
retirement plan, may be rolled over into a traditional IRA also.
With a Roth IRA, an individual may make only non-deductible
contributions; contributions can be made of up to $2,000 or, if less, the amount
of the individual's earned income for any taxable year, but only if the
individual's adjusted gross income for the year is less than $95,000 for single
individuals or, if married and filing jointly, the couple's adjusted gross
income is less than $150,000. The maximum contribution amount phases out and
32
<PAGE>
falls to zero between $95,000 and $110,000 for single persons and between
$150,000 and $160,000 for married persons. Contributions to a Roth IRA may be
made even after the individual attains age 70 1/2. Distributions from a Roth IRA
that satisfy certain requirements will not be taxable when taken; other
distributions of earnings will be taxable. An individual with adjusted gross
income of $100,000 or less generally may elect to roll over amounts from a
traditional IRA to a Roth IRA. The full taxable amount held in the traditional
IRA that is rolled over to a Roth IRA will be taxable in the year of the
rollover, except rollovers made for 1998, which may be included in taxable
income over a four year period.
An education IRA provides a method for saving for the higher education
expenses of a child; it is not designed for retirement savings. Generally,
amounts held in an education IRA may be used to pay for qualified higher
education expenses at an eligible (postsecondary) educational institution. An
individual may contribute to an educational IRA for the benefit of a child under
18 years old if the individual's income does not exceed certain limits. The
maximum contribution for the benefit of any one child is $500 per year.
Contributions are not deductible, but earnings accumulate tax-free until
withdrawal, and withdrawals used to pay qualified higher education expenses of
the beneficiary (or transferred to an education IRA of a qualified family
member) will not be taxable. Other withdrawals will be subject to tax.
In addition, there are special IRA programs available for employers
under which an employer may establish IRA accounts for its employees in lieu of
establishing more complicated retirement plans, such as qualified profit sharing
or 401(k) plans. Known as SEP-IRAs (Simplified Employee Pension-IRA) and SIMPLE
IRAs, they permit employers to maintain a retirement program for their employees
without being subject to a number of the recordkeeping and testing requirements
applicable to qualified plans.
Qualified Retirement Plans. Fund shares also may be held in profit
sharing, money purchase pension, and 401(k) plan accounts. An employer, whether
a corporation, partnership or other kind of business entity, generally may
maintain one or more qualified retirement plans for its employees. These plans,
which are qualified plans under Code Section 401(a), are subject to numerous
rules relating to such matters as the maximum contribution that can be allocated
to participant's accounts, nondiscrimination, and distributions from the plan,
as well as being subject in many cases to the fiduciary duty and other
provisions of the Employee Retirement Income Securities Act of 1974, as amended.
Businesses considering adopting a qualified retirement plan are encouraged to
seek competent professional advice before adopting one of these plans.
403(b) Plan Accounts. Fund shares also may be purchased as an
investment for Code Section 403(b)(7) custodial accounts. In general, employees
of tax-exempt organizations described in Code Section 501(c)(3) and of public
school systems are eligible to participate in 403(b) accounts. These
arrangements may permit employer contributions and/or employee salary reduction
contributions, and are subject to rules relating to such matters as the maximum
contribution than can be made to a participant's account, nondiscrimination, and
distributions from the account.
General Information. Please call the Fund to obtain information
regarding the establishment of IRAs or other retirement plans. A retirement plan
custodian may charge fees in connection with establishing and maintaining the
plan. An investor should consult with a competent adviser for specific advice
concerning his or her tax status and the possible benefits of establishing one
or more retirement plan accounts. The description above is only very general;
there are numerous other rules applicable to these plans to be considered before
establishing one.
Shareholders should consult their tax advisers about the application of
the provisions of tax law described in this statement of additional information
in light of their particular tax situations.
INVESTMENT ADVISER AND UNDERWRITER
Investment Adviser. Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. (the "Adviser"),
an investment counsel firm, 345 Park Avenue, New York, New York, acts as
investment adviser to the Fund. This organization, the predecessor of
33
<PAGE>
which is Scudder, Stevens & Clark, Inc. ("Scudder") is one of the most
experienced investment counsel firms in the United States. It was established as
a partnership in 1919 and pioneered the practice of providing investment counsel
to individual clients on a fee basis. In 1928 it introduced the first no-load
mutual fund to the public. In 1953 the Adviser introduced Scudder International
Fund, Inc., the first mutual fund available in the United States investing
internationally in securities of issuers in several foreign countries. The
predecessor firm reorganized from a partnership to a corporation on June 28,
1985. On June 26, 1997, Scudder entered into an agreement with Zurich Insurance
Company ("Zurich") pursuant to which Scudder and Zurich agreed to form an
alliance.
Founded in 1872, Zurich is a multinational, public corporation
organized under the laws of Switzerland. Its home office is located at
Mythenquai 2, 8002 Zurich, Switzerland. Historically, Zurich's earnings have
resulted from its operations as an insurer as well as from its ownership of its
subsidiaries and affiliated companies (the "Zurich Insurance Group"). Zurich and
the Zurich Insurance Group provide an extensive range of insurance products and
services and have branch offices and subsidiaries in more than 40 countries
throughout the world.
Pursuant to an investment management agreement with the Fund, the
Adviser acts as the Fund's investment adviser, manages its investments,
administers its business affairs, furnishes office facilities and equipment,
provides clerical and administrative services and permits any of its officers or
employees to serve without compensation as directors or officers of the Fund if
elected to such positions.
The Adviser maintains a large research department, which conducts
continuous studies of the factors that affect the position of various
industries, companies and individual securities. The Adviser receives published
and statistical compilations from issuers and other sources, as well as analyses
from brokers and dealers who may execute portfolio transactions for the
Adviser's clients. However, the Adviser regards this information and material as
an adjunct to its own research activities. The Adviser's international
investment management team travels the world researching hundreds of companies.
In selecting securities in which the Fund may invest, the conclusions and
investment decisions of the Adviser with respect to the Fund are based primarily
on the analyses of its own research department.
Certain investments may be appropriate for the Fund and also for other
clients advised by the Adviser. Investment decisions for the Fund and other
clients are made with a view toward achieving their respective investment
objectives and after consideration of such factors as their current holdings,
availability of cash for investment and the size of their investments generally.
Frequently, a particular security may be bought or sold for only one client or
in different amounts and at different times for more than one but less than all
clients. Likewise, a particular security may be bought for one or more clients
when one or more other clients are selling the security. In addition, purchases
or sales of the same security may be made for two or more clients on the same
date. In such event, such transactions will be allocated among the clients in a
manner believed by the Adviser to be equitable to each. In some cases, this
procedure could have an adverse effect on the price or amount of the securities
purchased or sold by the Fund. Purchase and sale orders for the Fund may be
combined with those of other clients of the Adviser in the interest of achieving
the most favorable net results to the Fund.
The transaction between Scudder and Zurich resulted in the assignment
of the Fund's investment management agreement with Scudder, that agreement was
deemed to be automatically terminated at the consummation of the transaction. In
anticipation of the transaction, however, a new investment management agreement
between the Fund and the Adviser was approved by the Corporation's Directors. At
the special meeting of the Fund's shareholders held on October 27, 1997, the
shareholders also approved the proposed new investment management agreement. The
new investment management agreement (the "Agreement") became effective as of
December 31, 1997.
On September 7, 1998, the businesses of Zurich (including Zurich's 70%
interest in Scudder Kemper) and the financial services businesses of B.A.T
Industries p.l.c. ("B.A.T") were combined to form a new global insurance and
financial services company known as Zurich Financial Services Group. By way of a
dual holding company structure, former Zurich shareholders initially owned
approximately 57% of Zurich Financial Services Group, with the balance initially
owned by former B.A.T shareholders.
34
<PAGE>
Upon consummation of this transaction, the Fund's existing investment
management agreement with Scudder Kemper was deemed to have been assigned and,
therefore, terminated. The Board approved a new investment management agreement
with Scudder Kemper, which is substantially identical to the then current
investment management agreement, except for the dates of execution and
termination. This agreement became effective upon the termination of the then
current investment management agreement and was approved at a shareholder
meeting held in December, 1998.
The Agreement dated September 7, 1998 was approved by the Directors of
the Fund on August 6, 1998. The Agreement will continue in effect until
September 30, 1999 and from year to year thereafter only if its continuance is
approved annually by the vote of a majority of those Directors who are not
parties to the Agreement or interested persons of the Adviser or the
Corporation, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on
such approval, and either by a vote of the Directors or of a majority of the
outstanding voting securities of the respective Fund. The Agreement may be
terminated at any time without payment of penalty by either party on sixty days
written notice and automatically terminates in the event of its assignment.
Under the Agreement, the Adviser provides the Fund with continuing
investment management for the Fund's portfolio consistent with the Fund's
investment objectives, policies and restrictions and determines what securities
shall be purchased for the portfolio of the Fund, what portfolio securities
shall be held or sold by the Fund and what portion of the Fund's assets shall be
held uninvested, subject always to the provisions of the Corporation's Articles
of Incorporation and By-Laws, the 1940 Act and the Code and to the Fund's
investment objectives, policies and restrictions and subject, further, to such
policies and instructions as the Directors of the Corporation may from time to
time establish. The Adviser also advises and assists the officers of the
Corporation in taking such steps as are necessary or appropriate to carry out
the decisions of its Directors and the appropriate committees of the Directors
regarding the conduct of the business of the Fund.
Under the Agreement, the Adviser renders significant administrative
services (not otherwise provided by third parties) necessary for the Fund's
operations as an open-end investment company including, but not limited to,
preparing reports and notices to the Directors and shareholders; supervising,
negotiating contractual arrangements with, and monitoring various third-party
service providers to the Fund (such as the Fund's transfer agent, pricing
agents, custodian, accountants and others); preparing and making filings with
the SEC and other regulatory agencies; assisting in the preparation and filing
of the Fund's federal, state and local tax returns; preparing and filing the
Fund's federal excise tax returns; assisting with investor and public relations
matters; monitoring the valuation of securities and the calculation of net asset
value; monitoring the registration of shares of the Fund under applicable
federal and state securities laws; maintaining the Fund's books and records to
the extent not otherwise maintained by a third party; assisting in establishing
accounting policies of the Fund; assisting in the resolution of accounting and
legal issues; establishing and monitoring the Fund's operating budget;
processing the payment of the Fund's bills; assisting the Fund in, and otherwise
arranging for, the payment of distributions and dividends; and otherwise
assisting the Fund in the conduct of its business, subject to the direction and
control of the Directors.
The Adviser pays the compensation and expenses (except those for
attending Board and Committee meetings outside New York, New York; Boston,
Massachusetts and Chicago, Illinois) of all Directors, officers and executive
employees of the Corporation affiliated with the Adviser and makes available,
without expense to the Corporation, the services of such Directors, officers and
employees of the Adviser as may duly be elected officers or Directors of the
Corporation, subject to their individual consent to serve and to any limitations
imposed by law, and provides the Corporation's office space and facilities.
For these services, the Fund pays the Adviser an annual fee equal to
1.10% of the average daily net assets of the Fund. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1997, the management fee amounted to $3,960,949. For the fiscal year
ended October 31, 1998, the management fee amounted to $3,960,160, of which
$326,115 was unpaid at October 31, 1998. For the fiscal year ended October 31,
1999, the management fee amounted to $4,401,513, of which $879,688 was unpaid at
October 31, 1999.
35
<PAGE>
Under the Agreement the Fund is responsible for all of its other
expenses including organizational costs, fees and expenses incurred in
connection with membership in investment company organizations; fees and
expenses of the Fund's accounting agent; brokers' commissions; legal, auditing
and accounting expenses; the fees and expenses of the Transfer Agent; and any
other expenses of issue, sale, underwriting, distribution, redemption or
repurchase of shares; the expenses of and the fees for registering or qualifying
securities for sale; the fees and expenses of Directors, officers and employees
of the Corporation who are not affiliated with the Adviser; the cost of printing
and distributing reports and notices to shareholders; and the fees and
disbursements of custodians. The Fund may arrange to have third parties assume
all or part of the expenses of sale, underwriting and distribution of shares of
the Fund. The Fund is also responsible for its expenses of shareholder meetings,
the cost of responding to shareholders' inquiries, and its expenses incurred in
connection with litigation, proceedings and claims and the legal obligation it
may have to indemnify its officers and Directors with respect thereto. The
Agreement expressly provides that the Adviser shall not be required to pay a
pricing agent of the Fund for portfolio pricing services, if any.
The Agreement identifies the Adviser as the exclusive licensee of the
rights to use and sublicense the names "Scudder," "Scudder Kemper Investments,
Inc." and "Scudder, Stevens and Clark, Inc." (together, the "Scudder Marks").
Under this license, the Corporation, with respect to the Fund, has the
non-exclusive right to use and sublicense the Scudder name and marks as part of
its name, and to use the Scudder Marks in the Corporation's investment products
and services.
In reviewing the terms of the Agreement and in discussions with the
Adviser concerning such Agreement, the Directors who are not "interested
persons" of the Adviser are represented by independent counsel at the Fund's
expense.
The Agreement provides that the Adviser shall not be liable for any
error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Fund in
connection with matters to which the Agreement relates, except a loss resulting
from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the
Adviser in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard by the
Adviser of its obligations and duties under the Agreement.
Officers and employees of the Adviser from time to time may have
transactions with various banks, including the Fund's custodian bank. It is the
Adviser's opinion that the terms and conditions of those transactions which have
occurred were not influenced by existing or potential custodial or other Fund
relationships.
The Adviser may serve as adviser to other funds with investment
objectives and policies similar to those of the Fund that may have different
distribution arrangements or expenses, which may affect performance.
None of the officers or Directors of the Corporation may have dealings
with the Fund as principals in the purchase or sale of securities, except as
individual subscribers or holders of shares of the Fund.
Personal Investments by Employees of the Adviser. Employees of the Adviser and
certain of its subsidiaries are permitted to make personal securities
transactions, subject to requirements and restrictions set forth in the
Adviser's Code of Ethics. The Code of Ethics contains provisions and
requirements designed to identify and address certain conflicts of interest
between personal investment activities and the interests of investment advisory
clients such as the Fund. Among other things, the Code of Ethics, which
generally complies with standards recommended by the Investment Company
Institute's Advisory Group on Personal Investing, prohibits certain types of
transactions absent prior approval, imposes time periods during which personal
transactions may not be made in certain securities, and requires the submission
of duplicate broker confirmations and monthly reporting of securities
transactions. Additional restrictions apply to portfolio managers, traders,
research analysts and others involved in the investment advisory process.
Exceptions to these and other provisions of the Code of Ethics may be granted in
particular circumstances after review by appropriate personnel.
Principal Underwriter. Pursuant to separate underwriting and distribution
services agreements ("distribution agreements"), Kemper Distributors, Inc.
("KDI"), 222 South Riverside Plaza, Chicago, Illinois 60606, an affiliate of
36
<PAGE>
the Adviser, is the principal underwriter and distributor for the Class A, B and
C Shares of the Fund and acts as agent of the Fund in the continuous offering of
its Shares. KDI bears all of its expenses of providing services pursuant to the
distribution agreement, including the payment of any commissions. The Fund pays
the cost for the prospectus and shareholder reports to be set in type and
printed for existing shareholders, and KDI, as principal underwriter, pays for
the printing and distribution of copies thereof used in connection with the
offering of Shares to prospective investors. KDI also pays for supplementary
sales literature and advertising costs.
The distribution agreements continue in effect from year to year so
long as such continuance is approved for each class at least annually by a vote
of the Board of Directors of the Corporation, including the Directors who are
not interested persons of the Corporation and who have no direct or indirect
financial interest in the agreement. The agreements automatically terminate in
the event of their assignment and may be terminated for a class at any time
without penalty by the Fund or by KDI upon 60 days' notice. Termination by the
Fund with respect to a class may be by vote of a majority of the Board of
Directors or a majority of the Directors who are not interested persons of the
Corporation and who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the
distribution agreement or a "majority of the outstanding voting securities" of
such class of the Fund, as defined under the 1940 Act. The distribution
agreements may not be amended for a class to increase the fee to be paid by the
Fund with respect to such class without approval by a majority of the
outstanding voting securities of such class of the Fund, and all material
amendments must in any event be approved by the Board of Directors in the manner
described above with respect to the continuation of the distribution agreement.
Class A Shares. KDI receives no compensation from the Fund as principal
underwriter for Class A shares and pays all expenses of distribution of the
Fund's Class A shares under the distribution agreements not otherwise paid by
dealers or other financial services firms. As indicated under "Purchase of
Shares," KDI retains the sales charge upon the purchase of Class A shares and
pays out a portion of this sales charge or allows concessions or discounts to
firms for the sale of the Fund's Class A shares.
The following information concerns the underwriting commissions paid in
connection with the Fund's Class A shares for the fiscal years ended October 31,
, 1998 and 1999.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Commissions Commissions
Commissions Retained KDI Paid Paid to KDI
Year by KDI to All Firms Affiliated Firms
---- ------ ------------ ----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
1999 $5,643 $206,026 0
1998* $0 $133,868 0
* From April 16, 1998 (inception of Class) through October 31, 1998
</TABLE>
Rule 12b-1 Plan. The Fund has adopted, in accordance with Rule 12b-1
under the 1940 Act, separate Rule 12b-1 distribution plans pertaining to the
Fund's Class B and Class C shares. Since the Rule 12b-1 Plan provides for fees
payable as an expense of each of the Class B shares and the Class C shares that
are used by KDI to pay for distribution services for those classes, each
agreement is approved and reviewed separately for the Class B shares and the
Class C shares in accordance with Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of
1940 (the "1940 Act"), which regulates the manner in which an investment company
may, directly or indirectly, bear the expenses of distributing its shares.
Because 12b-1 fees are paid out of fund assets on an ongoing basis they will,
over time, increase the cost of the investment and may cost more than other
types of sales charges.
Class B shares. For its services under the Rule 12b-1Plan, KDI receives
a fee from the Fund, payable monthly, at the annual rate of 0.75% of average
daily net assets of the Fund attributable to its Class B shares. This fee is
accrued daily as an expense of Class B shares. KDI also receives any contingent
deferred sales charges received on redemptions of Class B shares. See
"Redemption or Repurchase of Shares--Contingent Deferred Sales
37
<PAGE>
Charge--Class B Shares." KDI currently compensates firms for sales of Class B
shares at a commission rate of 3.75%.
Class C shares. For its services under the Rule 12b-1 Plan , KDI
receives a fee from the Fund, payable monthly, at the annual rate of 0.75% of
average daily net assets of the Fund attributable to its Class C shares. This
fee is accrued daily as an expense of Class C shares. KDI currently advances to
firms the first year distribution fee at a rate of 0.75% of the purchase price
of Class C shares. For periods after the first year, KDI currently pays firms
for sales of Class C shares a distribution fee, payable quarterly, at an annual
rate of 0.75% of net assets attributable to Class C shares maintained and
serviced by the firm and the fee continues until terminated by KDI or the Fund.
KDI also receives any contingent deferred sales charges. See "Redemption or
Repurchase of Shares--Contingent Deferred Sales Charges--Class C Shares."
If a Rule 12b-1 Plan for a class is terminated in accordance with its
terms, the obligation of the Fund to make payments to KDI pursuant to such Plan
will cease and the Fund will not be required to make any payments past the
termination date. Thus, there is no legal obligation for the Fund to pay any
expenses incurred by KDI in excess of its fees under a Plan, if for any reason
the Plan is terminated in accordance with its terms. Future fees under a Plan
may or may not be sufficient to reimburse KDI for its expenses incurred. (See
"Principal Underwriter" for more information.)
Expenses of the Fund and of KDI, in connection with the Rule 12b-1
Plans for the Class B and Class C shares for the fiscal year ended October 31,
1999 are set forth below. A portion of the marketing, sales and operating
expenses shown below could be considered overhead expenses.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Other Distribution Expenses paid by KDI
Contingent Distribution ---------------------------------------
Distrib Deferred Total Paid by KDI
tion Fees Sales Distribution to KDI Advertising Marketing Misc.
Fiscal Paid by Fund Charges Paid Fees Paid by Affiliated and Prospectus and Sales Operating Interest
Year to KDI to KDI KDI to Firms Firms Literature Printing Expenses Expenses Expenses
---- ------ ------ ------------ ----- ---------- -------- -------- -------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Class B 1999* 100,084 36,221 281,041 -- 23,928 1,760 65,110 6,801 44,791
Shares
Class C 1999* 36,727 1,920 19,879 -- 9,471 3 27,296 2,717 1,159
Shares
* From April 16, 1998 (inception of class) through October 31, 1999.
</TABLE>
Administrative Services. Administrative services are provided to the Shares
under an administrative services agreement ("administrative agreement") with
KDI. KDI bears all of its expenses of providing services pursuant to the
administrative agreement between KDI and the Fund, including the payment of
service fees. The Fund pays KDI an administrative services fee, payable monthly,
at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of average daily net assets of Class A, B and C
Shares of the Fund.
KDI enters into related arrangements with various broker-dealer firms
and other service or administrative firms ("firms") that provide services and
facilities for their customers or clients who are investors in the Fund. The
firms provide such office space and equipment, telephone facilities and
personnel as is necessary or beneficial for providing information and services
to their clients. Such services and assistance may include, but are not limited
to, establishing and maintaining accounts and records, processing purchase and
redemption transactions, answering routine inquiries regarding the Fund,
assistance to clients in changing dividend and investment options, account
designations and addresses and such other administrative services as may be
agreed upon from time to time and permitted by applicable statute, rule or
regulation. With respect to Class A Shares, KDI pays each firm a service fee,
payable quarterly, at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the net assets in Fund
accounts that it maintains and services attributable to Class A Shares,
commencing with the month after investment. With respect to Class B and Class C
Shares, KDI currently advances to firms the first-year service fee at a rate of
up to 0.25% of the purchase price of such shares. For periods after the first
year, KDI currently intends to pay firms a service fee at a rate of up to 0.25%
38
<PAGE>
(calculated monthly and paid quarterly) of the net assets attributable to Class
B and Class C Shares maintained and serviced by the firm. After the first year,
a firm becomes eligible for the quarterly service fee and the fee continues
until terminated by KDI or the Fund. Firms to which service fees may be paid may
include affiliates of KDI. In addition, KDI may, from time to time, from its own
resources, pay certain firms additional amounts for ongoing administrative
services and assistance provided to their customers and clients who are
shareholders of the Funds.
The following information concerns the administrative service fee paid by the
Fund for the fiscal years ended October 31, 1998 and 1999:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Administrative Total Service Fees Service Fees Paid by KDI
Service Fees Paid Paid by KDI to to KDI-Affiliated Firms
Class Year by the Fund Firms
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Class A 1999 $0*
1998 $0* $60,578 $0
Class B 1999 $0*
1998 $0* $31,130 $0
Class C 1999 $4,935*
1998 $0* $6,045 $0
</TABLE>
* After waiver.
KDI also may provide some of the above services and may retain any
portion of the fee under the administrative agreement not paid to firms to
compensate itself for administrative functions performed for the Fund.
Currently, the administrative services fee payable to KDI is payable at an
annual rate of 0.25% based upon Fund assets in accounts for which a firm
provides administrative services and, effective January 1, 2000, at the annual
rate of 0.15% based upon Fund assets in accounts for which there is no firm of
record (other than KDI) listed on the Fund's records. The effective
administrative services fee rate to be charged against all assets of the Fund
while this procedure is in effect will depend upon the proportion of Fund assets
that is in accounts for which there is a firm of record. The Board of Directors
of the Fund, in its discretion, may approve basing the fee to KDI at the annual
rate of 0.25% on all Fund assets in the future. In addition, KDI may, from time
to time, from its own resources, pay certain firms additional amounts for
ongoing administrative services and assistance provided to their customers and
clients who are shareholders of the Funds.
Certain directors or officers of the Corporation are also directors or
officers of the Adviser or KDI, as indicated under "OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS."
Fund Accounting Agent. Scudder Fund Accounting Corporation, Two International
Place, Boston, Massachusetts, 02210-4103, a subsidiary of the Adviser, computes
net asset value for the Fund.
39
<PAGE>
The Fund pays Scudder Fund Accounting Corporation an annual fee equal
to 0.065% of the first $150 million of average daily net assets, 0.040% of such
assets in excess of $150 million, 0.020% of such assets in excess of $1 billion,
plus holding and transaction charges for this service. Before the multiclassing
of the Fund on April 16, 1998, Scudder Fund Accounting Corporation charged the
Fund an aggregate fee of $207,838, for the fiscal year ended October 31,
1997.For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1998, the amount charged the Fund an
aggregate fee of $302,281. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1999, the
amount charged to the Fund aggregated $416,308, of which $77,999 was unpaid at
October 31, 1999.
Custodian, Transfer Agent and Shareholder Service Agent. Brown Brothers Harriman
& Co. (the "Custodian"), 40 Water Street, Boston, MA, 02109, as custodian, has
custody of all securities and cash of the Fund held outside the United States.
The Custodian attends to the collection of principal and income, and payment for
and collection of proceeds of securities bought and sold by the Fund. Kemper
Service Company ("KSvC"), 811 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri, 64105-2005, an
affiliate of the Adviser, is the transfer agent, dividend- paying agent and
shareholder service agent for the Fund's Class A, B and C Shares. KSvC receives
as transfer agent the following: prior to January 1, 1999, annual account fees
at a maximum rate of $6 per account plus account set up, transaction and
maintenance charges, annual fees associated with the contingent deferred sales
charge (Class B Shares only) and out-of- pocket expense reimbursement, and
effective January 1, 1999, annual account fees of $10.00 ($18.00 for retirement
accounts) plus set up charges, annual fees associated with the contingent
deferred sales charges (Class B only), an asset-based fee of 0.08% and
out-of-pocket reimbursement. For the period beginning April 16, 1998 (inception
of Classes A, B and C shares) through October 31, 1998, the amount charged to
Classes A, B, and C by KSvC aggregated $11,105, $7,785, and $3,086. For the
fiscal year ended October 31, 1999, the amount charged to Classes A, B and C by
KSvC aggregated $$125,755, $107,969 and $21,043, respectively, , of which
$56,055was unpaid at October 31, 1999.
Independent Auditors and Reports to Shareholders. The Fund's independent
auditors, PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP 160 Federal Street, Boston, Massachusetts
02110, audit and report on the Fund's annual financial statements, review
certain regulatory reports and the Fund's federal income tax return, and perform
other professional accounting, auditing, tax and advisory services when engaged
to do so by the Fund. Shareholders will receive annual audited financial
statements and semi-annual unaudited financial statements.
PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS
40
<PAGE>
Brokerage Commissions
- ---------------------
Allocation of brokerage is supervised by the Adviser.
The primary objective of the Adviser in placing orders for the purchase
and sale of securities for the Fund is to obtain the most favorable net results,
taking into account such factors as price, commission where applicable, size of
order, difficulty of execution and skill required of the executing
broker/dealer. The Adviser seeks to evaluate the overall reasonableness of
brokerage commissions paid (to the extent applicable) through the familiarity of
Scudder Investor Services, Inc. ("SIS") with commissions charged on comparable
transactions, as well as by comparing commissions paid by the Fund to reported
commissions paid by others. The Adviser routinely reviews commission rates,
execution and settlement services performed and makes internal and external
comparisons.
The Fund's purchases and sales of fixed-income securities are generally
placed by the Adviser with primary market makers for these securities on a net
basis, without any brokerage commission being paid by the Fund. Trading does,
however, involve transaction costs. Transactions with dealers serving as primary
market makers reflect the spread between the bid and asked prices. Purchases of
underwritten issues may be made, which will include an underwriting fee paid to
the underwriter.
When it can be done consistently with the policy of obtaining the most
favorable net results, it is the Adviser's practice to place such orders with
broker/dealers who supply brokerage and research services to the Adviser or the
Fund. The term "research services" includes advice as to the value of
securities; the advisability of investing in, purchasing or selling securities;
the availability of securities or purchasers or sellers of securities; and
analyses and reports concerning issuers, industries, securities, economic
factors and trends, portfolio strategy and
41
<PAGE>
the performance of accounts. The Adviser is authorized when placing portfolio
transactions, if applicable, for the Fund to pay a brokerage commission in
excess of that which another broker might charge for executing the same
transaction on account of execution services and the receipt of research
services. The Adviser has negotiated arrangements, which are not applicable to
most fixed-income transactions, with certain broker/dealers pursuant to which a
broker/dealer will provide research services, to the Adviser or the Fund in
exchange for the direction by the Adviser of brokerage transactions to the
broker/dealer. These arrangements regarding receipt of research services
generally apply to equity security transactions. The Adviser ([will not/may]
will not is used for Scudder funds may is for Kemper funds) place orders with a
broker/dealer on the basis that the broker/dealer has or has not sold shares of
the Fund. In effecting transactions in over-the-counter securities, orders are
placed with the principal market makers for the security being traded unless,
after exercising care, it appears that more favorable results are available
elsewhere.
To the maximum extent feasible, it is expected that the Adviser will
place orders for portfolio transactions through SIS which is a corporation
registered as a broker/dealer and a subsidiary of the Adviser; SIS will place
orders on behalf of the Fund with issuers, underwriters or other brokers and
dealers. SIS will not receive any commission, fee or other remuneration from the
Fund for this service.
Although certain research services from broker/dealers may be useful to
the Fund and to the Adviser, it is the opinion of the Adviser that such
information only supplements the Adviser's own research effort since the
information must still be analyzed, weighed, and reviewed by the Adviser's
staff. Such information may be useful to the Adviser in providing services to
clients other than the Fund, and not all such information is used by the Adviser
in connection with the Fund. Conversely, such information provided to the
Adviser by broker/dealers through whom other clients of the Adviser effect
securities transactions may be useful to the Adviser in providing services to
the Fund.
The Directors review, from time to time, whether the recapture for the benefit
of the Fund of some portion of the brokerage commissions or similar fees paid by
the Fund on portfolio transactions is legally permissible and advisable.
During the fiscal years ended October 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997, the Fund
paid brokerage commissions of $509,685, $526,742 and $722,757, respectively.
During the fiscal year ended October 31, 1999, the Fund paid brokerage
commissions of $454,169(89.11% of the total brokerage commissions), resulting
from orders placed consistent with the policy to obtain the most favorable net
results, for transactions placed with brokers and dealers who provided
supplementary research, market and statistical information to the Corporation or
the Adviser. The balance of such brokerage was not allocated to any particular
broker or dealer with regard to the above-mentioned or any other special
factors.
Portfolio Turnover. The Fund's average annual portfolio turnover rates (defined
by the SEC as the ratio of the lesser of sales or purchases to the monthly
average value of such securities owned during the year, excluding all securities
with maturities at the time of acquisition of one year or less) for the fiscal
years ended October 31, 1999, 1998 and 1997, was 64%, 41% and 61%, respectively.
Higher levels of activity by the Fund result in higher transaction costs and may
also result in taxes on realized capital gains to be borne by the Fund's
shareholders. Purchases and sales are made for the Fund whenever necessary, in
management's opinion, to meet the Fund's objective. Purchases and sales are made
for the Fund's portfolio whenever necessary, in management's opinion, to meet
the Fund's objective.
NET ASSET VALUE
The net asset value of shares of the Fund is computed as of the close of regular
trading on the Exchange on each day the Exchange is open for trading. The
Exchange is scheduled to be closed on the following holidays: New Year's Day,
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day,
Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas, and on the preceding
Friday or subsequent Monday when one of these holidays falls
42
<PAGE>
on a Saturday or Sunday, respectively. The net asset value per share of each
class of the Fund is computed by dividing the value of the total assets
attributable to a specific class, less all liabilities attributable to those
shares, by the total number of outstanding shares of that class.
An exchange-traded equity security is valued at its most recent sale
price on the exchange it is traded as of the Value Time. Lacking any sales, the
security is valued at the calculated mean between the most recent bid quotation
and the most recent asked quotation (the "Calculated Mean") on such exchange as
of the Value Time. Lacking a Calculated Mean, the security is valued at the most
recent bid quotation. An equity security which is traded on the National
Association of Securities Dealers Automated Quotation ("Nasdaq") System will be
valued at its most recent sale price. Lacking any sales, the security will be
valued at the most recent bid quotation as of the Value Time. The value of an
equity security not quoted on the Nasdaq System, but traded in another
over-the-counter market, is its most recent sale price. Lacking any sales, the
security is valued at the Calculated Mean quotation for such security as of the
Value Time. Lacking a Calculated Mean quotation, the security is valued at the
most recent bid quotation as of the Value Time.
Debt securities, other than money market instruments, are valued at
prices supplied by each Fund's pricing agent(s) which reflect broker/dealer
supplied valuations and electronic data processing techniques. Money market
instruments with an original maturity of sixty days or less maturing at par
shall be valued at amortized cost, which the Board believes approximates market
value. If it is not possible to value a particular debt security pursuant to
these valuation methods, the value of such security is the most recent bid
quotation supplied by a bona fide marketmaker. If it is not possible to value a
particular debt security pursuant to the above methods, the Adviser may
calculate the price of that debt security, subject to limitations established by
the Board.
An exchange traded options contract on securities, currencies, futures
and other financial instruments is valued at its most recent sale price on such
exchange. Lacking any sales, the options contract is valued at the Calculated
Mean. Lacking any Calculated Mean, the options contract is valued at the most
recent bid quotation in the case of a purchased options contract, or the most
recent asked quotation in the case of a written options contract. An options
contract on securities, currencies and other financial instruments traded
over-the-counter is valued at the most recent bid quotation in the case of a
purchased options contract and at the most recent asked quotation in the case of
a written options contract. Futures contracts are valued at the most recent
settlement price. Foreign currency exchange forward contracts are valued at the
value of the underlying currency at the prevailing exchange rate.
If a security is traded on more than one exchange, or upon one or more
exchanges and in the over-the-counter market, quotations are taken from the
market in which the security is traded most extensively.
If, in the opinion of the Corporation's Valuation Committee, the value
of a portfolio asset as determined in accordance with these procedures does not
represent the fair market value of the portfolio asset, the value of the
portfolio asset is taken to be an amount which, in the opinion of the Valuation
Committee, represents fair market value on the basis of all available
information. The value of other portfolio holdings owned by the Fund is
determined in a manner which, in the discretion of the Valuation Committee most
fairly reflects fair market value of the property on the valuation date.
Following the valuations of securities or other portfolio assets in
terms of the currency in which the market quotation used is expressed ("Local
Currency"), the value of these portfolio assets in terms of U.S. dollars is
calculated by converting the Local Currency into U.S. dollars at the prevailing
currency exchange rate on the valuation date.
PURCHASE AND REDEMPTION OF SHARES
PURCHASE OF SHARES
ALTERNATIVE PURCHASE ARRANGEMENTS. Class A shares of the Fund are sold to
investors subject to an initial sales charge. Class B shares are sold without an
initial sales charge but are subject to higher ongoing
43
<PAGE>
expenses than Class A shares and a contingent deferred sales charge payable upon
certain redemptions. Class B shares automatically convert to Class A shares six
years after issuance. Class C shares are sold without an initial sales charge
but are subject to higher ongoing expenses than Class A shares, are subject to a
contingent deferred sales charge payable upon certain redemptions within the
first year following purchase, and do not convert into another class. When
placing purchase orders, investors must specify whether the order is for Class
A, Class B or Class C shares.
The primary distinctions among the classes of the Fund's shares lie in
their initial and contingent deferred sales charge structures and in their
ongoing expenses, including asset-based sales charges in the form of Rule 12b-1
distribution fees. These differences are summarized in the table below. Each
class has distinct advantages and disadvantages for different investors, and
investors may choose the class that best suits their circumstances and
objectives.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Annual 12b-1 Fees
(as a % of average
Sales Charge daily net assets) Other Information
------------ ----------------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Class A Maximum initial sales charge of None Initial sales charge
5.75% of the public offering price waived or reduced for
certain purchases (1)
Class B Maximum contingent deferred sales 0.75% Shares convert to
charge of 4% of redemption Class A shares six
proceeds; declines to zero after years after issuance
six years
Class C Contingent deferred sales charge of 0.75% No conversion feature
1% of redemption proceeds for
redemptions made during first year
after purchase
</TABLE>
- -------------------
(1) Class A shares purchased at net asset value under the "Large Order NAV
Purchase Privilege" may be subject to a 1% contingent deferred sales charge if
redeemed within one year of purchase and a 0.50% contingent deferred sales
charge if redeemed within the second year of purchase.
The minimum initial investment for each of class A, B and C of the Fund
is $1,000 and the minimum subsequent investment is $100. The minimum initial
investment for an Individual Retirement Account is $250 and the minimum
subsequent investment is $50. Under an automatic investment plan, such as Bank
Direct Deposit, Payroll Direct Deposit or Government Direct Deposit, the minimum
initial and subsequent investment is $50. These minimum amounts may be changed
at any time in management's discretion.
Share certificates will not be issued unless requested in writing and
may not be available for certain types of account registrations. It is
recommended that investors not request share certificates unless needed for a
specific purpose. You cannot redeem shares by telephone or wire transfer or use
the telephone exchange privilege if share certificates have been issued. A lost
or destroyed certificate is difficult to replace and can be expensive to the
shareholder (a bond worth 2% or more of the certificate value is normally
required).
INITIAL SALES CHARGE ALTERNATIVE--Class A Shares. The public offering price of
Class A shares for purchasers choosing the initial sales charge alternative is
the net asset value plus a sales charge, as set forth below.
44
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Sales Charge
------------
Allowed to Dealers
As a Percentage of As a Percentage of as a Percentage of
Amount of Purchase Offering Price Net Asset Value* Offering Price
------------------ -------------- ---------------- --------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Less than $50,000 5.75% 6.10% 5.20%
$50,000 but less than $100,000 4.50 4.71 4.00
$100,000 but less than $250,000 3.50 3.63 3.00
$250,000 but less than $500,000 2.60 2.67 2.25
$500,000 but less than $1 million 2.00 2.04 1.75
$1 million and over 0.00** 0.00** ***
- ----------
* Rounded to the nearest one-hundredth percent.
** Redemption of shares may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge as discussed below.
*** Commission is payable by KDI as discussed below.
</TABLE>
The Fund receives the entire net asset value of all its shares sold.
KDI, the Fund's principal underwriter, retains the sales charge on sales of
Class A shares from which it allows discounts from the applicable public
offering price to investment dealers, which discounts are uniform for all
dealers in the United States and its territories. The normal discount allowed to
dealers is set forth in the above table. Upon notice to all dealers with whom it
has sales agreements, KDI may re-allow to dealers up to the full applicable
sales charge, as shown in the above table, during periods and for transactions
specified in such notice and such re-allowances may be based upon attainment of
minimum sales levels. During periods when 90% or more of the sales charge is
re-allowed, such dealers may be deemed to be underwriters as that term is
defined in the Securities Act of 1933.
Class A shares of the Fund may be purchased at net asset value by: (a)
any purchaser, provided that the amount invested in such Fund or other Kemper
Fund listed under "Special Features--Class A Shares--Combined Purchases" totals
at least $1,000,000 including purchases of Class A shares pursuant to the
"Combined Purchases," "Letter of Intent" and "Cumulative Discount" features
described under "Special Features"; or (b) a participant-directed qualified
retirement plan described in Code Section 401(a), a participant-directed
non-qualified deferred compensation plan described in Code Section 457 or a
participant-directed qualified retirement plan described in Code Section
403(b)(7) which is not sponsored by a K-12 school district, provided in each
case that such plan has not less than 200 eligible employees (the "Large Order
NAV Purchase Privilege"). Redemption within two years of the purchase of shares
purchased under the Large Order NAV Purchase Privilege may be subject to a
contingent deferred sales charge. See "Redemption or Repurchase of
Shares--Contingent Deferred Sales Charge--Large Order NAV Purchase Privilege."
KDI may at its discretion compensate investment dealers or other
financial services firms in connection with the sale of Class A shares of the
Fund at net asset value in accordance with the Large Order NAV Purchase
Privilege up to the following amounts: 1.00% of the net asset value of shares
sold on amounts up to $5 million, 0.50% on the next $45 million and 0.25% on
amounts over $50 million. The commission schedule will be reset on a calendar
year basis for sales of Shares pursuant to the Large Order NAV Purchase
Privilege to employer-sponsored employee benefit plans using the subaccount
recordkeeping system made available through Kemper Service Company. For purposes
of determining the appropriate commission percentage to be applied to a
particular sale, KDI will consider the cumulative amount invested by the
purchaser in the Fund and other Kemper Fund listed under "Special
Features--Class A Shares--Combined Purchases," including purchases pursuant to
the "Combined Purchases," "Letter of Intent" and "Cumulative Discount" features
referred to above and including Class R shares of certain Scudder Funds. The
privilege of purchasing Class A shares of the Fund at net asset value under the
Large Order NAV Purchase Privilege is not available if another net asset value
purchase privilege also applies.
45
<PAGE>
Class A shares of the Fund or of any other Kemper Fund listed under
"Special Features--Class A Shares--Combined Purchases" may be purchased at net
asset value in any amount by members of the plaintiff class in the proceeding
known as Howard and Audrey Tabankin, et al. v. Kemper Short-Term Global Income
Fund, et al., Case No. 93 C 5231 (N.D. IL). This privilege is generally
non-transferable and continues for the lifetime of individual class members and
for a ten year period for non-individual class members. To make a purchase at
net asset value under this privilege, the investor must, at the time of
purchase, submit a written request that the purchase be processed at net asset
value pursuant to this privilege specifically identifying the purchaser as a
member of the "Tabankin Class." Shares purchased under this privilege will be
maintained in a separate account that includes only shares purchased under this
privilege. For more details concerning this privilege, class members should
refer to the Notice of (1) Proposed Settlement with Defendants; and (2) Hearing
to Determine Fairness of Proposed Settlement, dated August 31, 1995, issued in
connection with the aforementioned court proceeding. For sales of Fund shares at
net asset value pursuant to this privilege, KDI may in its discretion pay
investment dealers and other financial services firms a concession, payable
quarterly, at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of net assets attributable to such
Shares maintained and serviced by the firm. A firm becomes eligible for the
concession based upon assets in accounts attributable to Shares purchased under
this privilege in the month after the month of purchase and the concession
continues until terminated by KDI. The privilege of purchasing Class A shares of
the Fund at net asset value under this privilege is not available if another net
asset value purchase privilege also applies.
Class A shares of the Fund may be purchased at net asset value by
persons who purchase such Shares through bank trust departments that process
such trades through an automated, integrated mutual fund clearing program
provided by a third party clearing firm.
Class A shares of the Fund may be purchased at net asset value in any
amount by certain professionals who assist in the promotion of Kemper Funds
pursuant to personal services contracts with KDI, for themselves or members of
their families. KDI in its discretion may compensate financial services firms
for sales of Class A shares under this privilege at a commission rate of 0.50%
of the amount of Class A shares purchased.
Class A shares of the Fund may be purchased at net asset value by
persons who purchase shares of the Fund through KDI as part of an automated
billing and wage deduction program administered by RewardsPlus of America for
the benefit of employees of participating employer groups.
Class A shares may be sold at net asset value in any amount to: (a)
officers, trustees, directors, employees (including retirees) and sales
representatives of the Fund, its investment manager, its principal underwriter
or certain affiliated companies, for themselves or members of their families;
(b) registered representatives and employees of broker-dealers having selling
group agreements with KDI and officers, directors and employees of service
agents of the Fund, for themselves or their spouses or dependent children; (c)
shareholders who owned shares of Kemper Value Series, Inc. ("KVS") on September
8, 1995, and have continuously owned shares of KVS (or a Kemper Fund acquired by
exchange of KVS shares) since that date, for themselves or members of their
families, and (d) any trust or pension, profit-sharing or other benefit plan for
only such persons. Class A shares may be sold at net asset value in any amount
to selected employees (including their spouses and dependent children) of banks
and other financial services firms that provide administrative services related
to order placement and payment to facilitate transactions in shares of the Fund
for their clients pursuant to an agreement with KDI or one of its affiliates.
Only those employees of such banks and other firms who as part of their usual
duties provide services related to transactions in Fund Class A shares may
purchase Fund shares at net asset value hereunder. Class A shares may be sold at
net asset value in any amount to unit investment trusts sponsored by Ranson &
Associates, Inc. In addition, unitholders of unit investment trusts sponsored by
Ranson & Associates, Inc. or its predecessors may purchase the Fund's Class A
shares at net asset value through reinvestment programs described in the
prospectuses of such trusts that have such programs. Class A shares of the Fund
may be sold at net asset value through certain investment advisers registered
under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 and other financial services firms
acting solely as agent for their clients, that adhere to certain standards
established by KDI, including a requirement that such shares be sold for the
benefit of their clients participating in an investment advisory program or
agency commission program under which such clients pay a fee to the investment
adviser or other firm for portfolio management or agency brokerage services.
46
<PAGE>
Such shares are sold for investment purposes and on the condition that they will
not be resold except through redemption or repurchase by the Fund. The Fund may
also issue Class A shares at net asset value in connection with the acquisition
of the assets of or merger or consolidation with another investment company, or
to shareholders in connection with the investment or reinvestment of income and
capital gain dividends.
The sales charge scale is applicable to purchases made at one time by
any "purchaser" which includes: an individual; or an individual, his or her
spouse and children under the age of 21; or a trustee or other fiduciary of a
single trust estate or single fiduciary account; or an organization exempt from
federal income tax under Section 501(c)(3) or (13) of the Code; or a pension,
profit-sharing or other employee benefit plan whether or not qualified under
Section 401 of the Code; or other organized group of persons whether
incorporated or not, provided the organization has been in existence for at
least six months and has some purpose other than the purchase of redeemable
securities of a registered investment company at a discount. In order to qualify
for a lower sales charge, all orders from an organized group will have to be
placed through a single investment dealer or other firm and identified as
originating from a qualifying purchaser.
DEFERRED SALES CHARGE ALTERNATIVE--Class B Shares. Investors choosing the
deferred sales charge alternative may purchase Class B shares at net asset value
per share without any sales charge at the time of purchase. Since Class B shares
are being sold without an initial sales charge, the full amount of the
investor's purchase payment will be invested in Class B shares for his or her
account. A contingent deferred sales charge may be imposed upon redemption of
Class B shares. See "Redemption or Repurchase of Shares--Contingent Deferred
Sales Charge--Class B Shares."
KDI compensates firms for sales of Class B shares at the time of sale
at a commission rate of up to 3.75% of the amount of Class B shares purchased.
KDI is compensated by the Fund for services as distributor and principal
underwriter for Class B shares. See "Investment Adviser and Underwriter."
47
<PAGE>
Class B shares of the Fund will automatically convert to Class A shares
of the Fund six years after issuance on the basis of the relative net asset
value per share of the Class B shares. The purpose of the conversion feature is
to relieve holders of Class B shares from the distribution services fee when
they have been outstanding long enough for KDI to have been compensated for
distribution related expenses. For purposes of conversion to Class A shares,
shares purchased through the reinvestment of dividends and other distributions
paid with respect to Class B shares in a shareholder's Fund account will be
converted to Class A shares on a pro rata basis.
PURCHASE OF CLASS C SHARES. The public offering price of the Class C shares of
the Fund is the next determined net asset value. No initial sales charge is
imposed. Since Class C shares are sold without an initial sales charge, the full
amount of the investor's purchase payment will be invested in Class C shares for
his or her account. A contingent deferred sales charge may be imposed upon the
redemption of Class C shares if they are redeemed within one year of purchase.
See "Redemption or Repurchase of Shares--Contingent Deferred Sales Charge--Class
C Shares." KDI currently advances to firms the first year distribution fee at a
rate of 0.75% of the purchase price of such shares. For periods after the first
year, KDI currently intends to pay firms for sales of Class C shares a
distribution fee, payable quarterly, at an annual rate of 0.75% of net assets
attributable to Class C shares maintained and serviced by the firm. KDI is
compensated by the Fund for services as distributor and principal underwriter
for Class C shares. See "Investment Adviser and Underwriter."
GENERAL. Banks and other financial services firms may provide administrative
services related to order placement and payment to facilitate transactions in
Shares of the Fund for their clients, and KDI may pay them a transaction fee up
to the level of the discount or commission allowable or payable to dealers, as
described above. Banks are currently prohibited under the Glass-Steagall Act
from providing certain underwriting or distribution services. Banks or other
financial services firms may be subject to various state laws regarding the
services described above and may be required to register as dealers pursuant to
state law. If banking firms were prohibited from acting in any capacity or
providing any of the described services, management would consider what action,
if any, would be appropriate. KDI does not believe that termination of a
relationship with a bank would result in any material adverse consequences to
the Fund.
KDI may, from time to time, pay or allow to firms a 1% commission on
the amount of Shares of the Fund sold under the following conditions: (i) the
purchased Shares are held in a Kemper IRA account, (ii) the Shares are purchased
as a direct "roll over" of a distribution from a qualified retirement plan
account maintained on a participant subaccount record keeping system provided by
Kemper Service Company, (iii) the registered representative placing the trade is
a member of ProStar, a group of persons designated by KDI in acknowledgment of
their dedication to the employee benefit plan area; and (iv) the purchase is not
otherwise subject to a commission.
In addition to the discounts or commissions described above, KDI will,
from time to time, pay or allow additional discounts, commissions or promotional
incentives, in the form of cash, to firms that sell shares of the Funds. In some
instances, such discounts, commissions or other incentives will be offered only
to certain firms that sell or are expected to sell during specified time periods
certain minimum amounts of shares of the Funds or other funds underwritten by
KDI.
Orders for the purchase of shares of the Fund will be confirmed at a
price based on the net asset value per share of the Fund next determined after
receipt in good order by KDI of the order accompanied by payment. However,
orders received by dealers or other financial services firms prior to the
determination of net asset value (see "Net Asset Value") and received in good
order by KDI prior to the close of its business day will be confirmed at a price
based on the net asset value per Share effective on that day ("trade date"). The
Fund reserves the right to determine the net asset value more frequently than
once a day if deemed desirable. Dealers and other financial services firms are
obligated to transmit orders promptly. Collection may take significantly longer
for a check drawn
48
<PAGE>
on a foreign bank than for a check drawn on a domestic bank. Therefore, if an
order is accompanied by a check drawn on a foreign bank, funds must normally be
collected before shares will be purchased. See "Purchase, Redemption and
Repurchase of Shares" herein.
Investment dealers and other firms provide varying arrangements for
their clients to purchase and redeem the Fund's Shares. Some may establish
higher minimum investment requirements than set forth above. Firms may arrange
with their clients for other investment or administrative services. Such firms
may independently establish and charge additional amounts to their clients for
such services, which charges would reduce the clients' return. Firms also may
hold the Fund's Shares in nominee or street name as agent for and on behalf of
their customers. In such instances, the Fund's transfer agent will have no
information with respect to or control over the accounts of specific
shareholders. Such shareholders may obtain access to their accounts and
information about their accounts only from their firm. Certain of these firms
may receive compensation from the Fund through the Shareholder Service Agent for
recordkeeping and other expenses relating to these nominee accounts. In
addition, certain privileges with respect to the purchase and redemption of
shares or the reinvestment of dividends may not be available through such firms.
Some firms may participate in a program allowing them access to their clients'
accounts for servicing including, without limitation, transfers of registration
and dividend payee changes; and may perform functions such as generation of
confirmation statements and disbursement of cash dividends. Such firms,
including affiliates of KDI, may receive compensation from the Fund through the
Shareholder Service Agent for these services. This statement of additional
information should be read in connection with such firms' material regarding
their fees and services.
The Fund reserves the right to withdraw all or any part of the offering
made by this statement of additional information and to reject purchase orders
for any reason. Also, from time to time, the Fund may temporarily suspend the
offering of any class of its shares to new investors. During the period of such
suspension, persons who are already shareholders of such class of such Fund
normally are permitted to continue to purchase additional shares of such class
and to have dividends reinvested.
TAX IDENTIFICATION NUMBER. Be sure to complete the Tax Identification Number
section of the Fund's application when you open an account. Federal tax law
requires the Fund to withhold 31% of taxable dividends, capital gains
distributions and redemption and exchange proceeds from accounts (other than
those of certain exempt payees) without a correct certified Social Security or
tax identification number and certain other certified information or upon
notification from the IRS or a broker that withholding is required. The Fund
reserves the right to reject new account applications without a correct
certified Social Security or tax identification number. The Fund also reserves
the right, following 30 days' notice, to redeem all shares in accounts without a
correct certified Social Security or tax identification number. A shareholder
may avoid involuntary redemption by providing the applicable Fund with a tax
identification number during the 30-day notice period.
Shareholders should direct their inquiries to Kemper Service Company,
811 Main Street, Kansas City, Missouri 64105-2005 or to the firm from which they
received this statement of additional information.
REDEMPTION OR REPURCHASE OF SHARES
- ----------------------------------
As described herein, Fund shares are sold at their public offering
price, which is the net asset value per such Shares next determined after an
order is received in proper form plus, with respect to Class A Shares, an
initial sales charge. The minimum initial investment for each of Class A, B and
C is $1,000 and the minimum subsequent investment is $100 but such minimum
amounts may be changed at any time. The Fund may waive the minimum for purchases
by trustees, directors, officers or employees of the Fund or the Adviser and its
affiliates. An order for the purchase of Shares that is accompanied by a check
drawn on a foreign bank (other than a check drawn on a Canadian bank in U.S.
Dollars) will not be considered in proper form and will not be processed unless
and until the Fund determines that it has received payment of the proceeds of
the check. The time required for such a determination will vary and cannot be
determined in advance.
49
<PAGE>
Upon receipt by the Shareholder Service Agent of a request for
redemption, Shares of the Fund will be redeemed by the Fund at the applicable
net asset value per Share of the Fund as described herein.
Scheduled variations in or the elimination of the initial sales charge
for purchases of Class A Shares or the contingent deferred sales charge for
redemptions of Class B or Class C Shares by certain classes of persons or
through certain types of transactions as described herein are provided because
of anticipated economies of scale in sales and sales-related efforts.
GENERAL. Any shareholder may require the Fund to redeem his or her Shares. When
Shares are held for the account of a shareholder by the Kemper Shares' transfer
agent, the shareholder may redeem such Shares by sending a written request with
signatures guaranteed to Kemper Funds, Attention: Redemption Department, P.O.
Box 419557, Kansas City, Missouri 64141-6557. When certificates for Shares have
been issued, they must be mailed to or deposited with the Shareholder Service
Agent, along with a duly endorsed stock power and accompanied by a written
request for redemption. Redemption requests and a stock power must be endorsed
by the account holder with signatures guaranteed by a commercial bank, trust
company, savings and loan association, federal savings bank, member firm of a
national securities exchange or other eligible financial institution. The
redemption request and stock power must be signed exactly as the account is
registered including any special capacity of the registered owner. Additional
documentation may be requested, and a signature guarantee is normally required,
from institutional and fiduciary account holders, such as corporations,
custodians (e.g., under the Uniform Transfers to Minors Act), executors,
administrators, trustees or guardians.
The redemption price for shares of a class of the Fund will be the net
asset value per share of that class of the Fund next determined following
receipt by the Shareholder Service Agent of a properly executed request with any
required documents as described above. Payment for shares redeemed will be made
in cash as promptly as practicable but in no event later than seven days after
receipt of a properly executed request accompanied by any outstanding share
certificates in proper form for transfer. When the Fund is asked to redeem
shares for which it may not have yet received good payment (i.e., purchases by
check, EXPRESS-Transfer or Bank Direct Deposit), it may delay transmittal of
redemption proceeds until it has determined that collected funds have been
received for the purchase of such shares, which will be up to 10 days from
receipt by the Fund of the purchase amount. The redemption within two years of
Class A shares purchased at net asset value under the Large Order NAV Purchase
Privilege may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (see "Purchase of
Shares--Initial Sales Charge Alternative--Class A Shares"), the redemption of
Class B shares within six years may be subject to a contingent deferred sales
charge (see "Contingent Deferred Sales Charge--Class B Shares" below), and the
redemption of Class C shares within the first year following purchase may be
subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (see "Contingent Deferred Sales
Charge--Class C Shares" below).
Because of the high cost of maintaining small accounts, the Fund may
assess a quarterly fee of $9 on any account with a balance below $1,000 for the
quarter. The fee will not apply to accounts enrolled in an automatic investment
program, Individual Retirement Accounts or employer-sponsored employee benefit
plans using the subaccount record-keeping system made available through the
Shareholder Service Agent.
Shareholders can request the following telephone privileges: expedited
wire transfer redemptions and EXPRESS-Transfer transactions (see "Special
Features") and exchange transactions for individual and institutional accounts
and pre-authorized telephone redemption transactions for certain institutional
accounts. Shareholders may choose these privileges on the account application or
by contacting the Shareholder Service Agent for appropriate instructions. Please
note that the telephone exchange privilege is automatic unless the shareholder
refuses it on the account application. The Fund or its agents may be liable for
any losses, expenses or costs arising out of fraudulent or unauthorized
telephone requests pursuant to these privileges unless the Fund or its agents
reasonably believe, based upon reasonable verification procedures, that the
telephonic instructions are genuine. The shareholder will bear the risk of loss,
including loss resulting from fraudulent or unauthorized transactions, so long
as reasonable
50
<PAGE>
verification procedures are followed. Verification procedures include recording
instructions, requiring certain identifying information before acting upon
instructions and sending written confirmations.
TELEPHONE REDEMPTIONS. If the proceeds of the redemption (prior to the
imposition of any contingent deferred sales charge) are $50,000 or less and the
proceeds are payable to the shareholder of record at the address of record,
normally a telephone request or a written request by any one account holder
without a signature guarantee is sufficient for redemptions by individual or
joint account holders, and trust, executor, guardian and custodial account
holders, provided the trustee, executor, guardian or custodian is named in the
account registration. Other institutional account holders may exercise this
special privilege of redeeming shares by telephone request or written request
without signature guarantee subject to the same conditions as individual account
holders and subject to the limitations on liability described under "General"
above, provided that this privilege has been pre-authorized by the institutional
account holder or guardian account holder by written instruction to the
Shareholder Service Agent with signatures guaranteed. Telephone requests may be
made by calling 1-800-621-1048. Shares purchased by check or through
EXPRESS-Transfer or Bank Direct Deposit may not be redeemed under this privilege
of redeeming shares by telephone request until such shares have been owned for
at least 10 days. This privilege of redeeming shares by telephone request or by
written request without a signature guarantee may not be used to redeem shares
held in certificated form and may not be used if the shareholder's account has
had an address change within 30 days of the redemption request. During periods
when it is difficult to contact the Shareholder Service Agent by telephone, it
may be difficult to use the telephone redemption privilege, although investors
can still redeem by mail. The Fund reserves the right to terminate or modify
this privilege at any time.
REPURCHASES (CONFIRMED REDEMPTIONS). A request for repurchase may be
communicated by a shareholder through a securities dealer or other financial
services firm to KDI, which the Fund has authorized to act as its agent. The
repurchase price will be the net asset value per Share of the Fund next
determined after receipt of a request by KDI. However, requests for repurchases
received by dealers or other firms prior to the determination of net asset value
per Share (see "Net Asset Value") and received by KDI prior to the close of
KDI's business day will be confirmed at the net asset value effective on that
day. The offer to repurchase may be suspended at any time. There is no charge by
KDI with respect to repurchases; however, dealers or other firms may charge
customary commissions for their services. Dealers and other financial services
firms are obligated to transmit orders promptly. Requirements as to stock
powers, certificates, payments and delay of payments are the same as for
redemptions.
EXPEDITED WIRE TRANSFER REDEMPTIONS. If the account holder has given
authorization for expedited wire redemption to the account holder's brokerage or
bank account, shares of the Fund can be redeemed and proceeds sent by federal
wire transfer to a single previously designated account. Requests received by
the Shareholder Service Agent prior to the determination of net asset value will
result in Shares being redeemed that day at the net asset value per Share of the
Fund effective on that day and normally the proceeds will be sent to the
designated account the following business day. Delivery of the proceeds of a
wire redemption of $250,000 or more may be delayed by the Fund for up to seven
days if the Fund or the Shareholder Service Agent deems it appropriate under
then-current market conditions. Once authorization is on file, the Shareholder
Service Agent will honor requests by telephone at 1-800-621-1048 or in writing,
subject to the limitations on liability described under "General" above. The
Fund is not responsible for the efficiency of the federal wire system or the
account holder's financial services firm or bank. The Fund currently does not
charge the account holder for wire transfers. The account holder is responsible
for any charges imposed by the account holder's firm or bank. There is a $1,000
wire redemption minimum (including any contingent deferred sales charge). To
change the designated account to receive wire redemption proceeds, send a
written request to the Shareholder Service Agent with signatures guaranteed as
described above or contact the firm through which shares of the Fund were
purchased. Shares purchased by check or through EXPRESS-Transfer or Bank Direct
Deposit may not be redeemed by wire transfer until such Shares have been owned
for at least 10 days. Account holders may not use this privilege to redeem
Shares held in certificated form. During periods when it is difficult to contact
the Shareholder Service Agent by telephone, it may be difficult to use the
expedited wire transfer redemption privilege, although investors can still
redeem by mail. The Fund reserves the right to terminate or modify this
privilege at any time.
51
<PAGE>
CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE--LARGE ORDER NAV PURCHASE PRIVILEGE. A
contingent deferred sales charge may be imposed upon redemption of Class A
shares that are purchased under the Large Order NAV Purchase Privilege as
follows: 1% if they are redeemed within one year of purchase and 0.50% if they
are redeemed during the second year after purchase. The charge will not be
imposed upon redemption of reinvested dividends or share appreciation. The
charge is applied to the value of the shares redeemed, excluding amounts not
subject to the charge. The contingent deferred sales charge will be waived in
the event of: (a) redemptions by a participant-directed qualified retirement
plan described in Code Section 401(a), a participant-directed non-qualified
deferred compensation plan described in Code Section 457 or a
participant-directed qualified retirement plan described in Code Section
403(b)(7) which is not sponsored by a K-12 school district; (b) redemptions by
employer-sponsored employee benefit plans using the subaccount record keeping
system made available through the Shareholder Service Agent; (c) redemption of
Shares of a shareholder (including a registered joint owner) who has died; (d)
redemption of Shares of a shareholder (including a registered joint owner) who
after purchase of the shares being redeemed becomes totally disabled (as
evidenced by a determination by the federal Social Security Administration); (e)
redemptions under the Fund's Systematic Withdrawal Plan at a maximum of 10% per
year of the net asset value of the account; and (f) redemptions of shares whose
dealer of record at the time of the investment notifies KDI that the dealer
waives the discretionary commission applicable to such Large Order NAV Purchase.
CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE--CLASS B SHARES. A contingent deferred sales
charge may be imposed upon redemption of Class B shares. There is no such charge
upon redemption of any share appreciation or reinvested dividends on Class B
shares. The charge is computed at the following rates applied to the value of
the Shares redeemed, excluding amounts not subject to the charge.
Contingent
Deferred
Year of Redemption After Purchase Sales Charge
------------------------------------------ ----------------
First............................. 4%
Second............................ 3%
Third............................. 3%
Fourth............................ 2%
Fifth............................. 2%
Sixth............................. 1%
The contingent deferred sales charge will be waived: (a) in the event
of the total disability (as evidenced by a determination by the federal Social
Security Administration) of the shareholder (including a registered joint owner)
occurring after the purchase of the shares being redeemed, (b) in the event of
the death of the shareholder (including a registered joint owner), (c) for
redemptions made pursuant to a systematic withdrawal plan (see "Special
Features--Systematic Withdrawal Plan" below), (d) for redemptions made pursuant
to any IRA systematic withdrawal based on the shareholder's life expectancy
including, but not limited to, substantially equal periodic payments described
in Internal Revenue Code Section 72(t)(2)(A)(iv) prior to age 59 1/2 and (e) for
redemptions to satisfy required minimum distributions after age 70 1/2 from an
IRA account (with the maximum amount subject to this waiver being based only
upon the shareholder's Kemper IRA accounts). The contingent deferred sales
charge will also be waived in connection with the following redemptions of
shares held by employer sponsored employee benefit plans maintained on the
subaccount record keeping system made available by the Shareholder Service
Agent: (a) redemptions to satisfy participant loan advances (note that loan
repayments constitute new purchases for purposes of the contingent deferred
sales charge and the conversion privilege), (b) redemptions in connection with
retirement distributions (limited at any one time to 10% of the total value of
plan assets invested in the Fund), (c) redemptions in connection with
distributions qualifying under the hardship provisions of the Internal Revenue
Code and (d) redemptions representing returns of excess contributions to such
plans.
52
<PAGE>
CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE--CLASS C SHARES. A contingent deferred sales
charge of 1% may be imposed upon redemption of Class C shares if they are
redeemed within one year of purchase. The charge will not be imposed upon
redemption of reinvested dividends or share appreciation. The charge is applied
to the value of the Shares redeemed, excluding amounts not subject to the
charge. The contingent deferred sales charge will be waived: (a) in the event of
the total disability (as evidenced by a determination by the federal Social
Security Administration) of the shareholder (including a registered joint owner)
occurring after the purchase of the shares being redeemed, (b) in the event of
the death of the shareholder (including a registered joint owner), (c) for
redemptions made pursuant to a systematic withdrawal plan (limited to 10% of the
net asset value of the account during the first year, see "Special
Features--Systematic Withdrawal Plan"), (d) for redemptions made pursuant to any
IRA systematic withdrawal based on the shareholder's life expectancy including,
but not limited to, substantially equal periodic payments described in Internal
Revenue Code Section 72(t)(2)(A)(iv) prior to age 59 1/2, (e) for redemptions to
satisfy required minimum distributions after age 70 1/2 from an IRA account
(with the maximum amount subject to this waiver being based only upon the
shareholder's Kemper IRA accounts), (f) for any participant-directed redemption
of shares held by employer-sponsored employee benefit plans maintained on the
subaccount record keeping system made available by the Shareholder Service
Agent, (g) for redemption of shares by an employer sponsored employee benefit
plan that (i) offers funds in addition to Kemper Funds (i.e., "multi-manager"),
and (ii) whose dealer of record has waived the advance of the first year
administrative service and distribution fees applicable to such shares and has
agreed to receive such fees quarterly, and (h) redemption of shares purchased
through a dealer-sponsored asset allocation program maintained on an omnibus
record-keeping system provided the dealer of record has waived the advance of
the first year and administrative services and distribution fees applicable to
such shares and has agreed to receive such fees quarterly.
CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE--GENERAL. The following example will illustrate
the operation of the contingent deferred sales charge. Assume that an investor
makes a single purchase of $10,000 of the Fund's Class B shares and that 16
months later the value of the shares has grown by $1,000 through reinvested
dividends and by an additional $1,000 of share appreciation to a total of
$12,000. If the investor were then to redeem the entire $12,000 in share value,
the contingent deferred sales charge would be payable only with respect to
$10,000 because neither the $1,000 of reinvested dividends nor the $1,000 of
share appreciation is subject to the charge. The charge would be at the rate of
3% ($300) because it was in the second year after the purchase was made.
The rate of the contingent deferred sales charge is determined by the
length of the period of ownership. Investments are tracked on a monthly basis.
The period of ownership for this purpose begins the first day of the month in
which the order for the investment is received. For example, an investment made
in May 1998 will be eligible for the second year's charge if redeemed on or
after May 1, 1999. In the event no specific order is requested when redeeming
shares subject to a contingent deferred sales charge, the redemption will be
made first from shares representing reinvested dividends and then from the
earliest purchase of shares. KDI receives any contingent deferred sales charge
directly.
REINVESTMENT PRIVILEGE. A shareholder who has redeemed Class A shares of the
Fund or any other Kemper Fund listed under "Special Features--Class A
Shares--Combined Purchases" (other than shares of the Kemper Cash Reserves Fund
purchased directly at net asset value) may reinvest up to the full amount
redeemed at net asset value per Share at the time of the reinvestment in Class A
shares of the Fund or of the other listed Kemper Funds. A shareholder of the
Fund or other Kemper Funds who redeems Class A shares purchased under the Large
Order NAV Purchase Privilege (see "Purchase of Shares--Initial Sales Charge
Alternative--Class A Shares") or Class B shares or Class C shares and incurs a
contingent deferred sales charge may reinvest up to the full amount redeemed at
net asset value per Share at the time of the reinvestment, in the same class of
shares as the case may be, of the Fund or of other Kemper Funds. The amount of
any contingent deferred sales charge also will be reinvested. These reinvested
shares will retain their original cost and purchase date for purposes of the
contingent deferred sales charge schedule. Also, a holder of Class B shares who
has redeemed Shares may reinvest up to the full amount redeemed, less any
applicable contingent deferred sales charge that may have been imposed upon the
redemption of such Shares, at net asset value in Class A shares of the Fund or
of the other Kemper Funds listed under "Special Features--Class A
Shares--Combined Purchases." Purchases through the reinvestment privilege are
subject to the
53
<PAGE>
minimum investment requirements applicable to the shares being purchased and may
only be made for Kemper Funds available for sale in the shareholder's state of
residence as listed under "Special Features--Exchange Privilege." The
reinvestment privilege can be used only once as to any specific Shares and
reinvestment must be effected within six months of the redemption. If a loss is
realized on the redemption of shares of the Fund, the reinvestment in Shares of
the Fund may be subject to the "wash sale" rules if made within 30 days of the
redemption, resulting in a postponement of the recognition of such loss for
federal income tax purposes. The reinvestment privilege may be terminated or
modified at any time.
REDEMPTION IN KIND. Although it is the Fund's present policy to redeem in cash,
if the Board of Directors determines that a material adverse effect would be
experienced by the remaining shareholders if payment were made wholly in cash,
the Fund will satisfy the redemption request in whole or in part by a
distribution of portfolio securities in lieu of cash, in conformity with the
applicable rules of the Securities and Exchange Commission, taking such
securities at the same value used to determine net asset value, and selecting
the securities in such manner as the Board of Directors may deem fair and
equitable. If such a distribution occurred, shareholders receiving securities
and selling them could receive less than the redemption value of such securities
and in addition would incur certain transaction costs. Such a redemption would
not be as liquid as a redemption entirely in cash. The Corporation has elected,
however, to be governed by Rule 18f-1 under the 1940 Act, as a result of which
the Fund is obligated to redeem shares, with respect to any one shareholder
during any 90-day period, solely in cash up to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of
the net asset value of a Share at the beginning of the period.
SPECIAL FEATURES
CLASS A SHARES--COMBINED PURCHASES. The Fund's Class A shares (or the
equivalent) may be purchased at the rate applicable to the discount bracket
attained by combining concurrent investments in Class A shares of any of the
following Funds: Kemper Technology Fund, Kemper Total Return Fund, Kemper Growth
Fund, Kemper Small Capitalization Equity Fund, Kemper Income and Capital
Preservation Fund, Kemper Municipal Bond Fund, Kemper Diversified Income Fund,
Kemper High Yield Series, Kemper U.S. Government Securities Fund, Kemper
International Fund, Kemper State Tax-Free Income Series, Kemper Blue Chip Fund,
Kemper Global Income Fund, Kemper Target Equity Fund (series are subject to a
limited offering period), Kemper Intermediate Municipal Bond Fund, Kemper Cash
Reserves Fund, Kemper U.S. Mortgage Fund, KemperShort-Term U.S. Government
Fund,, Kemper Value Series, Inc., Kemper Value+Growth Fund, Kemper Horizon Fund,
Kemper Europe Fund, Kemper Asian Growth Fund, Kemper Global/International
Series, Inc., Kemper Equity Trust, Kemper Securities Trust, Kemper Aggressive
Growth Fund, Kemper Value Fund, Kemper Funds Trust, Kemper Income Trust, Kemper
Global Discovery Fund, and Kemper Classic Growth Fund ("Kemper Funds"). Except
as noted below, there is no combined purchase credit for direct purchases of
shares of Zurich Money Funds, Cash Equivalent Fund, Tax-Exempt California Money
Market Fund, Cash Account Trust, Investor's Municipal Cash Fund or Investors
Cash Trust ("Money Market Funds"), which are not considered a "Kemper Fund" for
purposes hereof. For purposes of the Combined Purchases feature described above
as well as for the Letter of Intent and Cumulative Discount features described
below, employer sponsored employee benefit plans using the subaccount record
keeping system made available through the Shareholder Service Agent may include:
(a) Money Market Funds as "Kemper Funds", (b) all classes of shares of any
Kemper Fund and (c) the value of any other plan investment, such as guaranteed
investment contracts and employer stock, maintained on such subaccount record
keeping system.
CLASS A SHARES--LETTER OF INTENT. The same reduced sales charges for Class A
shares, as shown in this statement of additional information, also apply to the
aggregate amount of purchases of such Kemper Funds listed above made by any
purchaser within a 24-month period under a written Letter of Intent ("Letter")
provided by KDI. The Letter, which imposes no obligation to purchase or sell
additional Class A shares, provides for a price adjustment depending upon the
actual amount purchased within such period. The Letter provides that the first
purchase following execution of the Letter must be at least 5% of the amount of
the intended purchase, and that 5% of the amount of the intended purchase
normally will be held in escrow in the form of shares pending completion of the
intended purchase. If the total investments under the Letter are less than the
intended amount and thereby qualify only for a higher sales charge than actually
paid, the appropriate number of escrowed shares are redeemed
54
<PAGE>
and the proceeds used toward satisfaction of the obligation to pay the increased
sales charge. The Letter for an employer-sponsored employee benefit plan
maintained on the subaccount record keeping system available through the
Shareholder Service Agent may have special provisions regarding payment of any
increased sales charge resulting from a failure to complete the intended
purchase under the Letter. A shareholder may include the value (at the maximum
offering price) of all shares of such Kemper Funds held of record as of the
initial purchase date under the Letter as an "accumulation credit" toward the
completion of the Letter, but no price adjustment will be made on such shares.
Only investments in Class A shares are included for this privilege.
CLASS A SHARES--CUMULATIVE DISCOUNT. Class A shares of the Fund may also be
purchased at the rate applicable to the discount bracket attained by adding to
the cost of shares of the Fund being purchased, the value of all Class A shares
of the above mentioned Kemper Funds (computed at the maximum offering price at
the time of the purchase for which the discount is applicable) already owned by
the investor.
CLASS A SHARES--AVAILABILITY OF QUANTITY DISCOUNTS. An investor or the
investor's dealer or other financial services firm must notify the Shareholder
Service Agent or KDI whenever a quantity discount or reduced sales charge is
applicable to a purchase. Upon such notification, the investor will receive the
lowest applicable sales charge. Quantity discounts described above may be
modified or terminated at any time.
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE. Shareholders of Class A, Class B and Class C shares may
exchange their shares for shares of the corresponding class of other Kemper
Funds in accordance with the provisions below.
CLASS A SHARES. Class A shares of the Kemper Funds and shares of the Money
Market Funds listed under "Special Features--Class A Shares--Combined Purchases"
above may be exchanged for each other at their relative net asset values. Shares
of Money Market Funds and the Kemper Cash Reserves Fund that were acquired by
purchase (not including shares acquired by dividend reinvestment) are subject to
the applicable sales charge on exchange. Series of Kemper Target Equity Fund are
available on exchange only during the Offering Period for such series as
described in this statement of additional information. Cash Equivalent Fund,
Tax-Exempt California Money Market Fund, Cash Account Trust, Investors Municipal
Cash Fund and Investors Cash Trust are available on exchange but only through a
financial services firm having a services agreement with KDI.
Class A shares of the Fund purchased under the Large Order NAV Purchase
Privilege may be exchanged for Class A shares of another Kemper Fund or a Money
Market Fund under the exchange privilege described above without paying any
contingent deferred sales charge at the time of exchange. If the Class A shares
received on exchange are redeemed thereafter, a contingent deferred sales charge
may be imposed in accordance with the foregoing requirements provided that the
shares redeemed will retain their original cost and purchase date for purposes
of calculating the contingent deferred sales charge.
CLASS B SHARES. Class B shares of the Fund and Class B shares of any other
Kemper Fund listed under "Special Features--Class A Shares--Combined Purchases"
may be exchanged for each other at their relative net asset values. Class B
shares may be exchanged without a contingent deferred sales charge being imposed
at the time of exchange. For purposes of calculating the contingent deferred
sales charge that may be imposed upon the redemption of the Class B shares
received on exchange, amounts exchanged retain their original cost and purchase
date.
CLASS C SHARES. Class C shares of the Fund and Class C shares of any other
Kemper Fund listed under "Special Features--Class A Shares--Combined Purchases"
may be exchanged for each other at their relative net asset values. Class C
shares may be exchanged without a contingent deferred sales charge being imposed
at the time of exchange. For purposes of determining whether there is a
contingent deferred sales charge that may be imposed upon the redemption of the
Class C shares received by exchange, such Shares received by exchange the cost
and purchase date of the Shares that were originally purchased and exchanged.
GENERAL. . Shares of a Kemper Mutual Fund with a value in excess of $1,000,000
(except Kemper Cash
55
<PAGE>
Reserves Fund) acquired by exchange from another Kemper Mutual Fund, or from a
Money Market Fund, may not be exchanged thereafter until they have been owned
for 15 days (the "15 Day Hold Policy"). In addition, shares of a Kemper fund
with a value of $1,000,000 or less (except Kemper Cash Reserves Fund) acquired
by exchange from another Kemper fund, or from a money market fund, may not be
exchanged thereafter until they have been owned for 15 days, if, in the
Adviser's judgment, the exchange activity may have an adverse effect on the
fund. In particular, a pattern of exchanges that coincides with a "market
timing" strategy may be disruptive to the Kemper fund and therefore may be
subject to the 15-Day Hold Policy. For purposes of determining whether the 15
Day Hold Policy applies to a particular exchange, the value of the shares to be
exchanged shall be computed by aggregating the value of shares being exchanged
for all accounts under common control, direction, or advice, including without
limitation, accounts administered by a financial services firm offering market
timing, asset allocation or similar services. The total value of shares being
exchanged must at least equal the minimum investment requirement of the Kemper
Fund into which they are being exchanged. Exchanges are made based on relative
dollar values of the shares involved in the exchange. There is no service fee
for an exchange; however, dealers or other firms may charge for their services
in effecting exchange transactions. Exchanges will be effected by redemption of
shares of the fund held and purchase of shares of the other fund. For federal
income tax purposes, any such exchange constitutes a sale upon which a gain or
loss may be realized, depending upon whether the value of the shares being
exchanged is more or less than the shareholder's adjusted cost basis of such
shares. Shareholders interested in exercising the exchange privilege may obtain
prospectuses of the other funds from dealers, other firms or KDI. Exchanges may
be accomplished by a written request to KSvC, Attention: Exchange Department,
P.O. Box 419557, Kansas City, Missouri 64141-6557, or by telephone if the
shareholder has given authorization. Once the authorization is on file, the
Shareholder Service Agent will honor requests by telephone at 1-800-621-1048,
subject to the limitations on liability under "Purchase, Repurchase and
Redemption of Shares -- General." Any share certificates must be deposited prior
to any exchange of such shares. During periods when it is difficult to contact
the Shareholder Service Agent by telephone, it may be difficult to use the
telephone exchange privilege. The exchange privilege is not a right and may be
suspended, terminated or modified at any time. Except as otherwise permitted by
applicable regulations, 60 days' prior written notice of any termination or
material change will be provided. Exchanges may only be made for funds that are
available for sale in the shareholder's state of residence. Currently,
Tax-Exempt California Money Market Fund is available for sale only in California
and the portfolios of Investors Municipal Cash Fund are available for sale only
in certain states.
56
<PAGE>
The Fund may suspend the right of redemption or delay payment more than
seven days (a) during any period when the New York Stock Exchange ("Exchange")
is closed other than customary weekend and holiday closings or during any period
in which trading on the Exchange is restricted, (b) during any period when an
emergency exists as a result of which (i) disposal of the Fund's investments is
not reasonably practicable, or (ii) it is not reasonably practicable for the
Fund to determine the value of its net assets, or (c) for such other periods as
the Securities and Exchange Commission may by order permit for the protection of
the Fund's shareholders.
The Fund may suspend the right of redemption or delay payment more than
seven days (a) during any period when the New York Stock Exchange ("Exchange")
is closed other than customary weekend and holiday closings or during any period
in which trading on the Exchange is restricted, (b) during any period when an
emergency exists as a result of which (i) disposal of the Fund's investments is
not reasonably practicable, or (ii) it is not reasonably practicable for the
Fund to determine the value of its net assets, or (c) for such other periods as
the SEC may by order permit for the protection of the Fund's shareholders.
Although it is the Fund's present policy to redeem in cash, if the
Board of Directors determines that a material adverse effect would be
experienced by the remaining shareholders if payment were made wholly in cash,
the Fund will satisfy the redemption request in whole or in part by a
distribution of portfolio securities in lieu of cash, in conformity with the
applicable rules of the SEC, taking such securities at the same value used to
determine net asset value, and selecting the securities in such manner as the
Board of Directors may deem fair and equitable. If such a distribution occurred,
shareholders receiving securities and selling them could receive less than the
redemption value of such securities and in addition would incur certain
transaction costs. Such a redemption would not be so liquid as a redemption
entirely in cash.
The conversion of Class B Shares to Class A Shares may be subject to
the continuing availability of an opinion of counsel, ruling by the Internal
Revenue Service or other assurance acceptable to the Fund to the effect that (a)
the assessment of the distribution services fee with respect to Class B Shares
and not Class A Shares does not result in the Fund's dividends constituting
"preferential dividends" under the Internal Revenue Code, and (b) that the
conversion of Class B Shares to Class A Shares does not constitute a taxable
event under the Internal Revenue Code. The conversion of Class B Shares to Class
A Shares may be suspended if such assurance is not available. In that event, no
further conversions of Class B Shares would occur, and Shares might continue to
be subject to the distribution services fee for an indefinite period that may
extend beyond the proposed conversion date as described herein.
SYSTEMATIC EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE. The owner of $1,000 or more of any class of the
shares of a Kemper Fund or Money Market Fund may authorize the automatic
exchange of a specified amount ($100 minimum) of such shares for shares of the
same class of another such Kemper Fund. If selected, exchanges will be made
automatically until the privilege is terminated by the shareholder or the Kemper
Fund. Exchanges are subject to the terms and conditions described above under
"Exchange Privilege," except that the $1,000 minimum investment requirement for
the Kemper Fund acquired on exchange is not applicable. This privilege may not
be used for the exchange of shares held in certificated form.
EXPRESS-Transfer. EXPRESS-Transfer permits the transfer of money via the
Automated Clearing House System (minimum $100 and maximum $50,000) from a
shareholder's bank, savings and loan, or credit union account to purchase shares
in the Fund. Shareholders can also redeem Shares (minimum $100 and maximum
$50,000) from their Fund account and transfer the proceeds to their bank,
savings and loan, or credit union checking account. Shares purchased by check or
through EXPRESS-Transfer or Bank Direct Deposit may not be redeemed under this
privilege until such Shares have been owned for at least 10 days. By enrolling
in EXPRESS-Transfer, the shareholder authorizes the Shareholder Service Agent to
rely upon telephone instructions from any person to transfer the specified
amounts between the shareholder's Fund account and the predesignated bank,
savings and loan or credit union account, subject to the limitations on
liability under "Redemption or Repurchase of Shares--
57
<PAGE>
General." Once enrolled in EXPRESS-Transfer, a shareholder can initiate a
transaction by calling Kemper Shareholder Services toll free at 1-800-621-1048,
Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. Chicago time. Shareholders may
terminate this privilege by sending written notice to Kemper Service Company,
P.O. Box 419415, Kansas City, Missouri 64141-6415. Termination will become
effective as soon as the Shareholder Service Agent has had a reasonable amount
of time to act upon the request. EXPRESS-Transfer cannot be used with passbook
savings accounts or for tax-deferred plans such as Individual Retirement
Accounts ("IRAs").
BANK DIRECT DEPOSIT. A shareholder may purchase additional shares of the Fund
through an automatic investment program. With the Bank Direct Deposit Purchase
Plan ("Bank Direct Deposit"), investments are made automatically (maximum
$50,000) from the shareholder's account at a bank, savings and loan or credit
union into the shareholder's Fund account. By enrolling in Bank Direct Deposit,
the shareholder authorizes the Fund and its agents to either draw checks or
initiate Automated Clearing House debits against the designated account at a
bank or other financial institution. This privilege may be selected by
completing the appropriate section on the Account Application or by contacting
the Shareholder Service Agent for appropriate forms. A shareholder may terminate
his or her Plan by sending written notice to Kemper Service Company, P.O. Box
419415, Kansas City, Missouri 64141-6415. Termination by a shareholder will
become effective within thirty days after the Shareholder Service Agent has
received the request. A Fund may immediately terminate a shareholder's Plan in
the event that any item is unpaid by the shareholder's financial institution.
The Fund may terminate or modify this privilege at any time.
PAYROLL DIRECT DEPOSIT AND GOVERNMENT DIRECT DEPOSIT. A shareholder may invest
in the Fund through Payroll Direct Deposit or Government Direct Deposit. Under
these programs, all or a portion of a shareholder's net pay or government check
is automatically invested in the Fund account each payment period. A shareholder
may terminate participation in these programs by giving written notice to the
shareholder's employer or government agency, as appropriate. (A reasonable time
to act is required.) The Fund is not responsible for the efficiency of the
employer or government agency making the payment or any financial institutions
transmitting payments.
SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN. The owner of $5,000 or more of a class of the Fund's
shares at the offering price (net asset value per such Share plus, in the case
of Class A shares, the initial sales charge) may provide for the payment from
the owner's account of any requested dollar amount to be paid to the owner or a
designated payee monthly, quarterly, semiannually or annually. The $5,000
minimum account size is not applicable to Individual Retirement Accounts. The
minimum periodic payment is $100. The maximum annual rate at which Class B
shares may be redeemed (and Class A shares purchased under the Large Order NAV
Purchase Privilege and Class C shares in their first year following the
purchase) under a systematic withdrawal plan is 10% of the net asset value of
the account. Shares are redeemed so that the payee will receive payment
approximately the first of the month. Any income and capital gain dividends will
be automatically reinvested at net asset value. A sufficient number of full and
fractional Shares will be redeemed to make the designated payment. Depending
upon the size of the payments requested and fluctuations in the net asset value
of the Shares redeemed, redemptions for the purpose of making such payments may
reduce or even exhaust the account.
The purchase of Class A shares while participating in a systematic
withdrawal plan will ordinarily be disadvantageous to the investor because the
investor will be paying a sales charge on the purchase of shares at the same
time that the investor is redeeming shares upon which a sales charge may have
already been paid. Therefore, the Fund will not knowingly permit additional
investments of less than $2,000 if the investor is at the same time making
systematic withdrawals. KDI will waive the contingent deferred sales charge on
redemptions of Class A shares purchased under the Large Order NAV Purchase
Privilege, Class B shares and Class C shares made pursuant to a systematic
withdrawal plan. The right is reserved to amend the systematic withdrawal plan
on 30 days' notice. The plan may be terminated at any time by the investor or
the Fund.
TAX-SHELTERED RETIREMENT PLANS. The Shareholder Service Agent provides
retirement plan services and documents and KDI can establish investor accounts
in any of the following types of retirement plans:
58
<PAGE>
o Traditional, Roth and Education Individual Retirement Accounts
("IRAs"). This includes Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees of
Small Employers ("SIMPLE"), Simplified Employee Pension Plan ("SEP")
IRA accounts and prototype documents.
o 403(b)(7) Custodial Accounts. This type of plan is available to
employees of most non-profit organizations.
o Prototype money purchase pension and profit-sharing plans may be
adopted by employers. The maximum annual contribution per participant
is the lesser of 25% of compensation or $30,000.
Brochures describing the above plans as well as model defined benefit
plans, target benefit plans, 457 plans, 401(k) plans, simple 401(k) plans and
materials for establishing them are available from the Shareholder Service Agent
upon request. Investors should consult with their own tax advisors before
establishing a retirement plan.
PERFORMANCE
The Fund's historical performance or return for a class of Shares may
be shown in the form of "average annual total return" and "total return"
figures. These measures of performance are described below. Performance
information will be computed separately for each class.
The Fund may advertise several types of performance information for a
class of shares, including "average annual total return" and "total return."
Performance information will be computed separately for each of Class A, Class B
and Class C shares. Each of these figures is based upon historical results and
is not representative of the future performance of any class of the Fund. A Fund
with fees or expenses being waived or absorbed by the Adviser may also advertise
performance information before and after the effect of the fee waiver or expense
absorption.
Average annual total return and total return measure both the net
investment income generated by, and the effect of any realized or unrealized
appreciation or depreciation of, the underlying investments in the Fund's
portfolio. The Fund's average annual total return quotation is computed in
accordance with a standardized method prescribed by rules of the SEC. The
average annual total return for each class of the Fund for a specific period is
found by first taking a hypothetical $1,000 investment ("initial investment") in
the shares of a class on the first day of the period, adjusting to deduct the
maximum sales charge (in the case of Class A Shares), and computing the
"redeemable value" of that investment at the end of the period. Average annual
return quotations will be determined to the nearest 1/100th of 1%. The
redeemable value in the case of Class B Shares or Class C Shares include the
effect of the applicable contingent deferred sales charge that may be imposed at
the end of the period. The redeemable value is then divided by the initial
investment, and this quotient is taken to the Nth root (N representing the
number of years in the period) and 1 is subtracted from the result, which is
then expressed as a percentage. Average annual return calculated in accordance
with this formula does not take into account any required payments for federal
of state income taxes. Such quotations for Class B Shares for periods over six
years will reflect conversion of such shares to Class A Shares at the end of the
sixth year. The calculation assumes that all income and capital gains dividends
paid by the Fund have been reinvested at net asset value on the reinvestment
dates during the period. Average annual total return may also be calculated in a
manner not consistent with the standard formula described above, without
deducting the maximum sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Average Annual Total Return for the periods ended October 31, 1999
One Year Five Year Life of Class*
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Class A 33.44% 14.46% 13.29%
Class B 37.43% N/A 7.80%
Class C 40.41% N/A 9.69%
</TABLE>
59
<PAGE>
* Classes A, B and C shares commenced operations on April 16, 1998. Prior
to that date, the fund consisted of one class of shares which, on that
date, were re-designated as Class S shares of the fund. Returns shown
for Class A, B, and C shares for the periods prior to their inception
are derived from the historical performance of Class S shares of
Classic Growth Fund during the period and have been adjusted to reflect
the current maximum 5.75% initial sales charge for Class A shares or
the maximum CDSC, if any, currently applicable to Class B and C shares.
Calculation of the Fund's total return is not subject to a standardized
formula, except when calculated for the Fund's financial statements and
prospectus. Total return performance for a specific period is calculated by
first taking a hypothetical investment ("initial investment") in the Fund's
shares on the first day of the period, either adjusting or not adjusting to
deduct the maximum sales charge (in the case of Class A Shares), and computing
the "ending value" of that investment at the end of the period. The total return
percentage is then determined by subtracting the initial investment from the
ending value and dividing the remainder by the initial investment and expressing
the result as a percentage. The ending value in the case of Class B Shares or
Class C Shares may or may not include the effect of the applicable contingent
deferred sales charge that may be imposed at the end of the period. The
calculation assumes that all income and capital gains dividends paid by the Fund
have been reinvested at net asset value on the reinvestment dates during the
period. Total return may also be shown as the increased dollar value of the
hypothetical investment over the period. Total return calculations that do not
include the effect of the sales charge for Class A Shares or the contingent
deferred sales charge for Class B and Class C Shares would be reduced if such
charges were included.
The Fund's performance figures are based upon historical results and
are not necessarily representative of future performance. The Fund's Class A
Shares are sold at net asset value plus a maximum sales charge of 5.75% of the
offering price. Class B and Class C Shares are sold at net asset value.
Redemption of Class B Shares may be subject to a contingent deferred sales
charge that is 4% in the first year following the purchase, declines by a
specified percentage each year thereafter and becomes zero after six years.
Redemption of Class C Shares may be subject to a 1% contingent deferred sales
charge in the first year following the purchase. Average annual total return
figures do, and total return figures may, include the effect of the contingent
deferred sales charge for the Class B shares and Class C shares that may be
imposed at the end of the period in question. Performance figures for the Class
B shares and Class C shares not including the effect of the applicable
contingent deferred sales charge would be reduced if it were included. Returns
and net asset value will fluctuate. Factors affecting the Fund's performance
include general market conditions, operating expenses and investment management.
Any additional fees charged by a dealer or other financial services firm would
reduce returns described in this section. Shares of the Fund are redeemable at
the then current net asset value, which may be more or less than original cost.
The Fund's performance may be compared to that of the Consumer Price
Index or various unmanaged indices including, but not limited to, the Dow Jones
Industrial Average, the Standard & Poor's Financial Services Index, the Standard
& Poor's 500 Composite Stock Price Index, the Russell 1000(R) Index, the Russell
1000(R) Growth Index, the Wilshire Large Company Growth Index, the Wilshire 750
Mid Cap Company Growth Index, the Standard & Poor's/Barra Value Index, the
Standard & Poor's/Barra Growth Index, the Russell 1000(R) Value Index, the
Europe/Australia/Far East Index, International Finance Corporation's Latin
America Investable Return Index, the Morgan Stanley Capital International World
Index, the J.P. Morgan Global Traded Bond Index, and the Salomon Brothers World
Government Bond Index. The performance of the Fund may also be compared to the
performance of other mutual funds or mutual fund indices with similar objectives
and policies as reported by independent mutual fund reporting services such as
Lipper Analytical Services, Inc. ("Lipper"). Lipper performance calculations are
based upon changes in net asset value with all dividends reinvested and do not
include the effect of any sales charges.
There are differences and similarities between the investments which
the Fund may purchase and the investments measured by the indices which are
described herein. The Consumer Price Index is generally considered to be a
measure of inflation. The Dow Jones Industrial Average and the Standard & Poor's
Corporation 500 Stock Index are indices of common stocks which are considered to
be generally representative of the U.S. stock market. The Financial
Times/Standard & Poor's Actuaries World Index-Europe(TM) is a managed index that
is generally
60
<PAGE>
representative of the equity securities of European markets. The foregoing
indices are unmanaged. The net asset value and returns of the Fund will
fluctuate.
Investors may want to compare the performance of the Shares to
certificates of deposit issued by banks and other depository institutions.
Certificates of deposit may offer fixed or variable interest rates and principal
is guaranteed and may be insured. Withdrawal of deposits prior to maturity will
normally be subject to a penalty. Rates offered by banks and other depository
institutions are subject to change at any time specified by the issuing
institution. Information regarding bank products may be based upon, among other
things, the BANK RATE MONITOR National Index(TM) for certificates of deposit,
which is an unmanaged index and is based on stated rates and the annual
effective yields of certificates of deposit in the ten largest banking markets
in the United States, or the CDA Investment Technologies, Inc. Certificate of
Deposit Index, which is an unmanaged index based on the average monthly yields
of certificates of deposit.
Investors also may want to compare the performance of the Shares to
that of U.S. Treasury bills, notes or bonds. Treasury obligations are issued in
selected denominations. Rates of Treasury obligations are fixed at the time of
issuance and payment of principal and interest is backed by the full faith and
credit of the U.S. Treasury. The market value of such instruments will generally
fluctuate inversely with interest rates prior to maturity and will equal par
value at maturity. Information regarding the performance of Treasury obligations
may be based upon, among other things, the Towers Data Systems U.S. Treasury
Bill index, which is an unmanaged index based on the average monthly yield of
treasury bills maturing in six months. Due to their short maturities, Treasury
bills generally experience very low market value volatility.
Investors may want to compare the performance of the Shares to that of
money market funds. Money market funds seek to maintain a stable net asset value
and yield fluctuates. Information regarding the performance of money market
funds may be based upon, among other things, Financial Data Inc.'s Money Fund
Averages(R) (All Taxable). As reported by Financial Data Inc., all investment
results represent total return (annualized results for the period net of
management fees and expenses) and one year investment results are effective
annual yields assuming reinvestment of dividends.
On April 16, 1998, the Fund was divided into multiple classes of
shares, including the Kemper Class A, B and C Shares described herein. Prior to
that date, the Fund consisted of only one class of shares; the shares of the
Fund outstanding as of April 16, 1998, were redesignated as Scudder Shares of
the Fund, which class has no sales charges or Rule 12b-1 fees. The performance
figures shown below reflect the performance of the Fund prior to the creation of
multiple classes, restated to reflect the sales charges of the Kemper Class A
Shares of the Fund. The performance figures have not been restated to reflect
Rule 12b-1 fees, which are included only from the date of inception of the
Fund's Rule 12b-1 plans on April 16, 1998. The Rule 12b-1 fees applicable to the
Kemper Class A, B and C Shares of the Fund will affect subsequent performance.
OFFICERS AND DIRECTORS
The officers and directors of the Corporation, their ages, their principal
occupations and other affiliations, if any, with the Adviser, and Kemper
Distributors, Inc. are as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
----------------------
Position with
-------------
Underwriter,
------------
Name, Age and Position Scudder Investor
- ------------- -------- ----------------
Address with Corporation Principal Occupation** Services, Inc.
- ------- ---------------- ---------------------- --------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Nicholas Bratt (50)++@ President, all series Managing Director of Scudder --
except Scudder Global Fund Kemper Investments, Inc.
61
<PAGE>
Position with
-------------
Underwriter,
------------
Name, Age and Position Scudder Investor
- ------------- -------- ----------------
Address with Corporation Principal Occupation** Services, Inc.
- ------- ---------------- ---------------------- --------------
William E. Holzer++@ (49) President, Scudder Global Managing Director of Scudder --
Fund Kemper Investments, Inc.
Sheryle J. Bolton (53) Director Chief Executive Officer and --
Scientific Learning Corporation Director, Scientific Learning
1995 University Ave. Corporation, Former President
Suite 400 and Chief Operating Officer,
San Francisco, CA 94704 Physicians Online, Inc.
(electronic transmission of
clinical information for
physicians (1994-1995)
William T. Burgin (56) Director General Partner, Bessemer --
83 Walnut Street Venture Partners; General
Wellesley, MA 02181-2101 Partner, Deer & Company;
Director, Fort James
Corporation; Director, Galileo
Corporation; Director of
various privately held
companies
Keith R. Fox (45) Director Private Equity Investor, --
10 East 53rd Street Exeter Capital Management
New York, NY 10022 Corporation
William H. Luers (70) Director Chairman and President of the --
The United Nations Association United .Nations Association
of America of America
801 Second Avenue (organizer/researcher of
New York, NY 10017 U.N.-supporting entities);
Retired, President, The
Metropolitan Museum of Art
(1986 to 1999)
Kathryn L. Quirk*#++(46) Director, Vice President Managing Director of Scudder Director, Senior Vice
and Assistant Secretary Kemper Investments, Inc. President, Chief Legal
Officer and Assistant
Clerk
62
<PAGE>
Position with
-------------
Underwriter,
------------
Name, Age and Position Scudder Investor
- ------------- -------- ----------------
Address with Corporation Principal Occupation** Services, Inc.
- ------- ---------------- ---------------------- --------------
Joan E. Spero (55) Director President, Doris Duke __
Doris Duke Charitable Charitable
Foundation Foundation(1997-present);
650 Fifth Avenue Undersecretary of State for
19th Floor Economic, Business and
New York, NY 10128 Agricultural Affairs (March
1993-January 1997)
Paul Bancroft III (69) Honorary Director Venture Capitalist and
79 Pine Lane Consultant: Retired President,
Box 6639 Chief Executive Officer and
Snowmass Village, CO Director, Besemer Securities
81615 Corporation
Thomas J. Devine (72) Honorary Director Consultant --
450 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10022
William H. Gleysteen, Jr. (72) Honorary Director Consultant; Guest Scholar, --
4937 Crescent Street Brookings Institution;
Bethesda, MD 20816 President, The Japan Society,
Inc. (1989-December 1995)
Robert G. Stone, Jr. (76) Honorary Director Chairman Emeritus and --
405 Lexington Avenue Director, Kirby Corporation
New York, NY 10174 (inland and offshore marine
transportation and diesel
repairs)
Jan C. Faller ( )+ Vice President Vice President of Scudder __
Kemper Investments, Inc.
Ann M. McCreary++(43) Vice President Managing Director of Scudder --
Kemper Investments, Inc.
Gerald J. Moran++ (59) Vice President Senior Vice President of --
Scudder Kemper Investments,
Inc.
Isabel M. Saltzman+ (44) Vice President Managing Director of Scudder --
Kemper Investments, Inc.
John R. Hebble+ (41) Treasurer Senior Vice President of Assistant Treasurer
Scudder Kemper Investments,
Inc.
63
<PAGE>
Position with
-------------
Underwriter,
------------
Name, Age and Position Scudder Investor
- ------------- -------- ----------------
Address with Corporation Principal Occupation** Services, Inc.
- ------- ---------------- ---------------------- --------------
John Millette (37)+ Vice President and Assistant Vice President of --
Secretary Scudder Kemper Investments,
Inc. since September 1994;
previously employed by the law
firm Kaye, Scholer, Fierman,
Hays & Handler
Caroline Pearson+ (37) Assistant Secretary Senior Vice President of Clerk
Scudder Kemper Investments,
Inc.; Associate, Dechert Price
& Rhoads (law firm) 1989 - 1997
* Ms. Quirk is considered by the Corporation and its counsel to be a
person who is an "interested person" of the Adviser or of the
Corporation (as defined in the 1940 Act).
** Unless otherwise stated, all the Directors and officers have been
associated with their respective companies for more than five years,
but not necessarily in the same capacity.
# Ms. Quirk is a member of the Executive Committee, which may exercise
the powers of the Directors when they are not in session.
+ Address: Two International Place, Boston, Massachusetts
++ Address: 345 Park Avenue, New York, New York
@ The President of a series shall have the status of Vice President of
the Corporation.
</TABLE>
64
<PAGE>
65
<PAGE>
To the knowledge of the Corporation, as of January 29, 2000 all
Directors and officers as a group owned beneficially (as the term is defined in
Section 13(d) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) less than 1% of the
shares of the Fund outstanding on such date.
To the knowledge of the Corporation, as of January 29, 2000, no person
owned beneficially more than 5% of the Fund's outstanding shares, except as
stated below.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NAME and ADDRESS CLASS PERCENTAGE
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette A 7.63
Securities Corp.
P.O. Box 2052
Jersey City, NJ 07303
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Oppenheimer & Co. A 8.27
280 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10017
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
McKeeSport Health Care A 5.35
National City Bank of PA., Trustee
Attn: Mutual Funds Dept.
P.O. Box 94984
Cleveland, OH 44101
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Financial Services Corp. B 7.24
66
<PAGE>
FBO Claudia Havens
200 Liberty Street
New York, NY 10281
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette B 17.51
Securities Corp.
P.O. Box 2052
Jersey City, NJ 07303
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
National Financial Services Corp. C 8.46
FBO Francis Downs, Trustee
200 Liberty Street
New York, NY 10281
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Donaldson, Lufkin & Jenrette C 10.31
Securities Corp.
P.O. Box 2052
Jersey City, NJ 07303
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wedbush Morgan Securities C 11.19
Accounting Dept.
P.O. Box 30014
Los Angeles, CA 90030
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
To the knowledge of the Corporation, as of January 29, 2000 all Directors and
officers as a group owned beneficially (as the term is defined in Section 13(d)
under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) less than 1% of the shares of the
Fund outstanding on such date.
To the knowledge of the Corporation, as of January 29, 2000, no person
owned beneficially more than 5% of the Fund's outstanding shares, except as
stated below.
The Directors and officers of the Corporation also serve in similar capacities
with respect to other funds advised by the Adviser.
REMUNERATION
Responsibilities of the Board -- Board and Committee Meetings
The Board of Directors is responsible for the general oversight of each Fund's
business. A majority of the Board's members are not affiliated with the Adviser.
These "Independent Directors" have primary responsibility for assuring that each
Fund is managed in the best interests of its shareholders.
The Board of Directors meets at least quarterly to review the investment
performance of each Fund and other operational matters, including policies and
procedures designated to assure compliance with various regulatory requirements.
At least annually, the Independent Directors review the fees paid to the Adviser
and its affiliates for investment advisory services and other administrative and
shareholder services. In this regard, they evaluate, among other things, each
Fund's investment performance, the quality and efficiency of the various other
services provided, costs incurred by the Adviser and its affiliates, and
comparative information regarding fees and expenses of competitive funds. They
are assisted in this process by each Fund's independent public accountants and
by independent legal counsel selected by the Independent Directors.
67
<PAGE>
Several of the officers and Directors of the Corporation may be
officers or employees of the Adviser, or of the Distributor, the Transfer Agent,
Scudder Trust Company or Scudder Fund Accounting Corporation from whom they
receive compensation, as a result of which they may be deemed to participate in
the fees paid by the Corporation. The Corporation pays no direct remuneration to
any officer of the Corporation. However, each of the Directors who is not
affiliated with the Adviser will be compensated for all expenses relating to
corporation business (specifically including travel expenses relating to
Corporation business). Each of these unaffiliated Directors receives an annual
Director's fee of $4,000 from a Fund plus $400 for attending each Directors'
meeting, audit committee meeting or meeting held for the purpose of considering
arrangements between the Corporation on behalf of a Fund and the Adviser or any
of its affiliates. Each unaffiliated Director also receives $150 per committee
meeting attended other than those set forth above. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1998, Directors' fees and expenses amounted to $288,000 for the
Fund.
Effective July 1, 1998, each unaffiliated Director will receive an
Annual Director's fee of $3,500 from the Fund plus $325 for attending each
Director's meeting, audit committee meeting or meeting held for the purpose of
considering arrangements between the Corporation on behalf of a Fund and the
Adviser or any of its affiliates. Each unaffiliated Director will also receive
$100 per committee meeting attended other than those set forth above.
The following table shows the aggregate compensation received by each
unaffiliated Director during 1999 from the Registrant and from all funds advised
by the Adviser as a group.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name Global/International Fund, Inc.* All Scudder Funds
---- ------------------------------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C>
Paul Bancroft III,** $31,500 $159,991 (25 funds)
Honorary Director
Sheryle J. Bolton, Director $38,000 $179,860 (24 funds)
William T. Burgin, Director $36,375 $160,325 (23 funds)
Keith R. Fox, Director $36,375 $160,325 (23 funds)
William H. Gleysteen, Jr. $ 0.00 $19,933@ (2 funds)
Honorary Director
William H. Luers, Director $39,625 $212,596 (26 funds)
Joan E. Spero*** $39,625 $175,275 (23 funds)
Director
Robert G. Stone, Jr. $ 0.00 $9,000 (1 fund)
Honorary Director
</TABLE>
68
<PAGE>
* Global/International Fund, Inc. consists of five funds: Scudder Global
Fund, Scudder International Bond Fund, Scudder Global Bond Fund, Global
Discovery Fund and Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund.
** Elected as Honorary Director in December 1999, after serving as
Director.
*** Elected as Director of the Corporation in September 1998.
@ This amount does not reflect $6,208 in retirement benefits accrued as
part of Fund Complex expenses, and $3,000, in estimated annual benefits
payable upon retirement. Retirement benefits accrued and proposed are
to be paid to Mr. Gleysteen as additional compensation for serving on
the Board of The Japan Fund, Inc.
Members of the Board of Directors who are employees of the Adviser or
its affiliates receive no direct compensation from the Corporation, although
they are compensated as employees of the Adviser, or its affiliates, as a result
of which they may be deemed to participate in fees paid by the Fund.
SHAREHOLDER RIGHTS
The Fund is a diversified series of Global/International Fund, Inc., a Maryland
corporation, and was organized on May 15, 1986, as Scudder Global Fund, Inc., an
open-end management company. The Corporation changed its name from Scudder
Global Fund, Inc. on May 29, 1998. On March 5, 1996, directors of Scudder Global
Small Company Fund approved the change in name to Scudder Global Discovery Fund,
and on April 16, 1998 the Fund changed its name to Global Discovery Fund. The
Corporation's other series are Scudder Global Fund, Scudder Emerging Markets
Income Fund, Scudder Global Bond Fund and Scudder International Bond Fund.
69
<PAGE>
The Board of Directors has subdivided the shares of the Fund into four
classes, namely, the Scudder Shares and the Kemper Global Discovery Fund Class
A, B and C shares. Although shareholders of different classes of a series have
an interest in the same portfolio of assets, shareholders of different classes
may bear different expenses in connection with different methods of
distribution.
The authorized capital stock of the Corporation consists of 800 million
shares with $.01 par value, 100 million shares of which are allocated to the
Fund, 300 million shares of which are allocated to Scudder Global Bond Fund, 200
million shares of which are allocated to Scudder International Bond Fund, and
100 million shares of which are allocated to Scudder Emerging Markets Income
Fund and Scudder Global Fund. Each share of each series of the Corporation (or
class thereof) has equal rights as to each other share of that series as to
voting for Directors, redemption, dividends and liquidation. The Directors have
the authority to issue additional series of shares and to designate the relative
rights and preferences as between the different series. All shares issued and
outstanding are fully paid and non-assessable, transferable, and redeemable at
net asset value at the option of the shareholder. Shares have no pre-emptive or
conversion rights.
Shares of the Corporation entitle their holders to one vote per share;
however, separate votes are taken by each series on matters affecting an
individual series (and by class on matters affecting an individual class). For
example, a change in investment policy for a series would be voted upon only by
shareholders of the series involved. Additionally, approval of the investment
advisory agreement is a matter to be determined separately by each series.
Approval by the shareholders of one series is effective as to that series
whether or not enough votes are received from the shareholders of the other
series to approve such agreement as to the other series.
The shares of the Corporation have non-cumulative voting rights, which
means that the holders of more than 50% of the shares voting for the election of
Directors can elect 100% of the Directors if they choose to do so, and, in such
event, the holders of the remaining less than 50% of the shares voting for the
election of Directors will not be able to elect any person or persons to the
Board of Directors.
The Directors, in their discretion, may authorize the division of
shares of a series into different classes permitting shares of different classes
to be distributed by different methods. Although shareholders of different
classes of a series would have an interest in the same portfolio of assets,
shareholders of any subsequently created classes may bear different expenses in
connection with different methods of distribution of their classes.
The Fund's activities are supervised by the Corporation's Board of
Directors. Maryland corporate law provides that a Director of the Corporation
shall not be liable for actions taken in good faith, in a manner he or she
reasonably believes to be in the best interests of the Corporation and with the
care that an ordinarily prudent person in a like position would use under
similar circumstances. In so acting, a Director shall be fully protected in
relying in good faith upon the records of the Corporation and upon reports made
to the Corporation by persons selected in good faith by the Directors as
qualified to make such reports.
The Articles of Amendment and Restatement provide that the Directors of
the Corporation, to the fullest extent permitted by Maryland General Corporation
Law and the 1940 Act shall not be liable to the Corporation or its shareholders
for damages. As a result, Directors of the Corporation may be immune from
liability in certain instances in which they could otherwise be held liable. The
Articles and the By-Laws provide that the Corporation will indemnify its
Directors and officers against liabilities and expenses incurred in connection
with litigation in which they may be involved because of their offices with the
Corporation to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law. Nothing in the
Articles or the By-Laws protects or indemnifies a Director or officer against
any liability to which he or she would otherwise be subject by reason of willful
misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties
involved in the conduct of his or her office.
The assets of the Corporation received for the issue or sale of the
shares of each series and all income, earnings, profits and proceeds thereof,
subject only to the rights of creditors, are specifically allocated to such
series
70
<PAGE>
and constitute the underlying assets of such series. The underlying assets of
each series are segregated on the books of account, and are to be charged with
the liabilities in respect to such series and with such a share of the general
liabilities of the Corporation. If a series were unable to meet its obligations,
the assets of all other series may in some circumstances be available to
creditors for that purpose, in which case the assets of such other series could
be used to meet liabilities which are not otherwise properly chargeable to them.
Expenses with respect to any two or more series are to be allocated in
proportion to the asset value of the respective series except where allocations
of direct expenses can otherwise be fairly made. The officers of the
Corporation, subject to the general supervision of the Directors, have the power
to determine which liabilities are allocable to a given series, or which are
general or allocable to two or more series. In the event of the dissolution or
liquidation of the Corporation or any series, the holders of the shares of any
series are entitled to receive as a class the underlying assets of such shares
available for distribution to shareholders.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Other Information
The CUSIP number of each class of the Fund is Class A, 378947-60-0; Class B,
378947-70-9; and Class C, 378947-80-8.
The Fund has a fiscal year ending October 31.
Many of the investment changes in the Fund will be made at prices
different from those prevailing at the time they may be reflected in a regular
report to shareholders of the Fund. These transactions will reflect investment
decisions made by the Adviser in light of the Fund's investment objectives and
policies, its other portfolio holdings and tax considerations, and should not be
construed as recommendations for similar action by other investors.
Portfolio securities of the Fund are held separately pursuant to a
custodian agreement, by the Fund's custodian, Brown Brothers Harriman & Co., 40
Water Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
The law firm of Dechert Price & Rhoads is counsel to the Fund.
The Fund, or the Adviser (including any affiliate of the Adviser), or
both, may pay unaffiliated third parties for providing recordkeeping and other
administrative services with respect to accounts of participants in retirement
plans or other beneficial owners of Fund shares whose interests are held in an
omnibus account.
The Shares' prospectus and this Statement of Additional Information
omit certain information contained in the Registration Statement and its
amendments which the Corporation has filed with the SEC under the Securities Act
of 1933 and reference is hereby made to the Registration Statement for further
information with respect to the Fund and the securities offered hereby. The
Registration Statement and its amendments, are available for inspection by the
public at the SEC in Washington, D.C.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The financial statements, including the investment portfolio of the
Fund, together with the Report of Independent Accountants, Financial Highlights
and notes to financial statements in the Annual Report to the Shareholders of
the Fund dated October 31, 1999 are incorporated herein by reference and are
hereby deemed to be a part of this Statement of Additional Information.
Effective April 16, 1998, the Corporation's Board of Directors has
approved a name change of the Fund from Scudder Global Discovery Fund to Global
Discovery Fund. In addition, the Board of Directors has subdivided the Fund's
shares into classes. Shares of the Fund outstanding on such date are
redesignated as Scudder Shares of
71
<PAGE>
the Fund. The financial statements incorporated herein reflect the investment
performance of the Fund prior to the aforementioned reclassification of shares.
printed on recycled paper
72
<PAGE>
APPENDIX
The following is a description of the ratings given by Moody's and S&P to
corporate and municipal bonds.
Ratings of Municipal and Corporate Bonds
S&P:
Debt rated AAA has the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poor's. Capacity to
pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong. Debt rated AA has a very
strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal and differs from the highest
rated issues only in small degree. Debt rated A has a strong capacity to pay
interest and repay principal although it is somewhat more susceptible to the
adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than debt in
higher rated categories. Debt rated BBB is regarded as having an adequate
capacity to pay interest and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibits
adequate protection parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing
circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and
repay principal for debt in this category than in higher rated categories.
Debt rated BB, B, CCC, CC and C is regarded as having predominantly
speculative characteristics with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay
principal. BB indicates the least degree of speculation and C the highest. While
such debt will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these
are outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposures to adverse conditions.
Debt rated BB has less near-term vulnerability to default than other
speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to
adverse business, financial, or economic conditions which could lead to
inadequate capacity to meet timely interest and principal payments. The BB
rating category is also used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is
assigned an actual or implied BBB- rating. Debt rated B has a greater
vulnerability to default but currently has the capacity to meet interest
payments and principal repayments. Adverse business, financial, or economic
conditions will likely impair capacity or willingness to pay interest and repay
principal. The B rating category is also used for debt subordinated to senior
debt that is assigned an actual or implied BB or BB- rating.
Debt rated CCC has a currently identifiable vulnerability to default,
and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions to
meet timely payment of interest and repayment of principal. In the event of
adverse business, financial, or economic conditions, it is not likely to have
the capacity to pay interest and repay principal. The CCC rating category is
also used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or
implied B or B- rating. The rating CC typically is applied to debt subordinated
to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied CCC rating. The rating C
typically is applied to debt subordinated to senior debt which is assigned an
actual or implied CCC- debt rating. The C rating may be used to cover a
situation where a bankruptcy petition has been filed, but debt service payments
are continued. The rating C1 is reserved for income bonds on which no interest
is being paid. Debt rated D is in payment default. The D rating category is used
when interest payments or principal payments are not made on the date due even
if the applicable grace period had not expired, unless S&P believes that such
payments will be made during such grace period. The D rating also will be used
upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition if debt service payments are
jeopardized.
Moody's:
Bonds which are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They
carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as
"gilt edge." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally
stable margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are
likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair
the fundamentally strong position of such issues. Bonds which are rated Aa are
judged to be of high quality by all standards. Together with the Aaa group they
comprise what are generally known as high grade bonds. They are rated lower than
the best bonds because margins of protection may not be as large as in Aaa
securities or fluctuation of protective elements may be of greater amplitude or
there may be other elements present which make the long term risks appear
somewhat larger than in Aaa
73
<PAGE>
securities. Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes
and are to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving
security to principal and interest are considered adequate but elements may be
present which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium grade obligations,
i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments
and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in
fact have speculative characteristics as well. Bonds which are rated Ba are
judged to have speculative elements; their future cannot be considered as well
assured. Often the protection of interest and principal payments may be very
moderate and thereby not well safeguarded during other good and bad times over
the future. Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class. Bonds
which are rated B generally lack characteristics of the desirable investment.
Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of other terms of
the contract over any long period of time may be small.
Bonds which are rated Caa are of poor standing. Such issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal or
interest. Bonds which are rated Ca represent obligations which are speculative
in a high degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked
shortcomings. Bonds which are rated C are the lowest rated class of bonds and
issues so rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever
attaining any real investment standing.
74
<PAGE>
SCUDDER
INVESTMENTS(SM)
[LOGO]
Supplement to the currently effective Prospectus of each of the listed funds:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Scudder Corporate Bond Fund Scudder Massachusetts Limited Term Tax Free Fund
Scudder GNMA Fund Scudder Micro Cap Fund
Scudder International Bond Fund Scudder Ohio Tax Free Fund
Scudder International Growth and Income Fund Scudder Tax Managed Growth Fund
Scudder Limited Term Tax Free Fund Scudder Tax Managed Small Company Fund
</TABLE>
On February 7, 2000, the applicable Board of each of the above-mentioned funds
(identified in the table below under the heading "Acquired Fund") approved an
Agreement and Plan of Reorganization (the "Plan") between each Fund and the
corresponding Acquiring Fund identified in the chart below. The proposed
transaction is part of Scudder Kemper's initiative to restructure and streamline
the management and operations of the funds it manages.
The Plan applicable to each Fund, except for Scudder International Bond Fund and
Scudder International Growth and Income Fund, provides for the transfer of
substantially all of the assets and the assumption of all of the liabilities of
the Fund solely in exchange for voting shares of the corresponding Acquiring
Fund. Following the exchange, the Fund will distribute shares of the
corresponding Acquiring Fund to the Fund's shareholders as part of the Fund's
cessation of operations as provided for in the Plan. With respect to Scudder
International Bond Fund and Scudder International Growth and Income Fund, the
Plan provides that the voting shares of such Funds will be reclassified into
voting shares of the corresponding Acquiring Fund and, accordingly, the
corresponding Acquiring Fund will acquire all of the assets and assume all of
the liabilities of the Fund (the transactions contemplated by the Plan are
referred to as the "Reorganization").
Each Reorganization can be consummated only if, among other things, it is
approved by a majority vote of shareholders of the applicable Fund. A Special
Meeting (the "Meeting") of the shareholders of each Fund will be held on or
about July 13, 2000 and shareholders will be given the opportunity to vote on
the Plan and any other applicable matters affecting the Fund at that time. In
connection with the Meeting, each Fund will be filing with the Securities and
Exchange Commission and delivering to its shareholders: (i) a Proxy Statement
describing in detail the Reorganization and the Board's considerations in
recommending that shareholders approve the Reorganization, and (ii) a Prospectus
for the Acquiring Fund.
If the Plan for a Fund is approved at the Meeting and certain conditions
required by the Plan are satisfied, the Reorganization is expected to become
effective at 9:00 a.m. eastern standard time on or about the appropriate
Proposed Reorganization Date identified in the chart below. If shareholder
approval of a Plan is delayed due to failure to obtain a quorum or otherwise,
the applicable Reorganization will become effective as soon as practicable after
the receipt of shareholder approval.
In the event the shareholders of a Fund fail to approve the Plan for that Fund,
the Fund will continue to operate and the Fund's Board may resubmit the Plan for
shareholder approval or consider other proposals.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Acquired Fund Acquiring Fund Proposed Reorganization Date
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Scudder Corporate Bond Fund Scudder Income Fund July 31, 2000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scudder GNMA Fund AARP GNMA and U.S. Treasury Fund July 17, 2000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scudder International Bond Fund Scudder Global Bond Fund September 25, 2000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scudder International Growth and Income Fund Scudder International Fund August 28, 2000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scudder Limited Term Tax Free Fund Scudder Medium Term Tax Free Fund July 31, 2000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scudder Massachusetts Limited Term Tax Free Fund Scudder Massachusetts Tax Free Fund July 31, 2000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scudder Micro Cap Fund AARP Small Company Stock Fund July 17, 2000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scudder Ohio Tax Free Fund Scudder Managed Municipal Bonds July 31, 2000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scudder Tax Managed Growth Fund Scudder Select 500 Fund August 28, 2000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scudder Tax Managed Small Company Fund Scudder Small Company Value Fund August 28, 2000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
February 8, 2000
<PAGE>
SCUDDER
INVESTMENTS(SM)
[LOGO]
- -------------------
BOND/GLOBAL
- -------------------
Scudder International
Bond Fund
Fund #018
Prospectus
March 1, 2000
As with all mutual funds, the Securities and
Exchange Commission (SEC) does not approve
or disapprove these shares or determine
whether the information in this prospectus
is truthful or complete. It is a criminal
offense for anyone to inform you otherwise.
<PAGE>
Scudder International Bond Fund
How the fund works
2 Investment Approach
3 Main Risks To Investors
4 The Fund's Track Record
5 How Much Investors Pay
6 Other Policies and Risks
7 Who Manages and Oversees the Fund
9 Financial Highlights
How to invest in the fund
11 How to Buy Shares
12 How to Exchange or Sell Shares
13 Policies You Should Know About
18 Understanding Distributions and Taxes
<PAGE>
How the fund works
On the next few pages, you'll find information about this fund's investment
goal, the main strategies it uses to pursue that goal and the main risks that
could affect its performance.
Whether you are considering investing in the fund or are already a shareholder,
you'll probably want to look this information over carefully. You may want to
keep it on hand for reference as well.
Remember that mutual funds are investments, not bank deposits. They're not
insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency, and you could
lose money by investing in them.
You can access all Scudder fund prospectuses online at: www.scudder.com
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ticker symbol | SCIBX fund number | 018
Scudder International Bond Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Approach
The fund seeks to provide high income and, secondarily, capital preservation and
appreciation. It does this by investing at least 65% of total assets in high
quality bonds of any maturity from non-U.S. issuers around the world.
The fund can buy many types of income-producing securities, among them foreign
government bonds, corporate bonds and bonds issued by supranational
organizations such as the World Bank. To a more limited extent, the fund may
utilize various types of derivatives (contracts whose value is based on, for
example, indices, currencies or securities).
In making their buy and sell decisions, the managers typically consider a number
of factors, such as economic and currency outlooks, credit quality, possible
interest rate movements, security characteristics and changes in supply and
demand within international bond markets.
In choosing individual bonds, the managers use independent analysis to look for
bonds that have attractive yields and show improving credit. The managers
prefer, but may not exclusively invest in, bonds that are denominated in stable
or strengthening currencies.
The managers may favor different types of securities at different times, while
still maintaining variety in terms of the countries, issuers and types of
securities represented.
Although the managers may adjust the fund's duration (a measure of sensitivity
to interest rate movements), they generally intend to keep it between 4 and 6
years.
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CREDIT QUALITY POLICIES
This fund normally invests at least 65% of total assets in bonds of the top two
grades of credit quality.
The fund could put up to 35% of total assets in investment-grade U.S. debt
securities, and up to 15% of net assets in junk bonds, which are those below the
fourth credit grade (i.e., grade BB/Ba and below). Compared to investment-grade
bonds, junk bonds may pay higher yields and have higher volatility and risk of
default.
2
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] This fund may interest investors who want exposure to high
quality bonds outside the United States.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Main Risks to Investors
There are several risk factors that could reduce the yield you get from the
fund, cause you to lose money or make the fund perform less well than other
investments.
As with most bond funds, the most important factor is market interest rates --
in this case, interest rates outside the U.S. A rise in interest rates generally
means a fall in bond prices and, in turn, a fall in the value of your
investment. (As a rule, a 1% rise in interest rates means a 1% fall in value for
every year of duration.) An increase in its duration would make the fund more
sensitive to this risk. Foreign bonds tend to be more volatile than their U.S.
counterparts, for reasons ranging from political and economic uncertainties to a
higher risk that essential information may be incomplete or wrong. Because the
fund isn't diversified and can invest a larger percentage of assets in a given
issuer than a diversified fund, factors affecting that issuer could affect fund
performance.
When the dollar value of a foreign currency falls, so does the value of any
investments the fund owns that are denominated in that currency.
Other factors that could affect performance include:
o the managers could be wrong in their analysis of economic trends,
geographical areas, industries, issuers or other matters
o a bond could decline in credit quality or go into default; this risk is
greater with junk and foreign bonds
o derivatives could produce disproportionate losses
o at times, market conditions might make it hard to value some
investments or to get an attractive price for them
3
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] While a fund's past performance isn't necessarily a sign of
how it will do in the future, it can be valuable for an
investor to know. This page looks at fund performance two
different ways: year by year and over time.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Fund's Track Record
The bar chart shows how fund returns have varied from year to year, which may
give some idea of risk. The table shows how the fund's returns over different
periods average out. For context, the table also includes a broad-based market
index (which, unlike the fund, does not have any fees or expenses). The
performance of both the fund and the index varies over time. All figures on this
page assume reinvestment of dividends and distributions.
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31 each year
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
THE ORIGINAL DOCUMENT CONTAINS A BAR CHART HERE
BAR CHART DATA:
'90 21.11
'91 22.23
'92 7.62
'93 15.83
'94 -8.61
'95 8.50
'96 3.54
'97 -4.10
'98 12.63
'99 -5.43
Best Quarter: 11.14%, Q3 1991 Worst Quarter: -5.83%, Q1 1997
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Average Annual Total Returns (%) as of 12/31/1999
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
1 Year 5 Years 10 Years
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Fund -5.43 2.79 6.83
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Index -5.07 5.90 8.60
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Index: Salomon Brothers Non-U.S. Dollar World Government Bond Index, an
unmanaged measure of worldwide fixed-rate government bonds with remaining
maturities greater than one year.
In both the chart and the table, total returns for 1990 through 1994 and 1998
through 1999 would have been lower if operating expenses hadn't been reduced.
4
<PAGE>
How Much Investors Pay
This fund has no sales charge or other shareholder fees. The fund does have
annual operating expenses, and as a shareholder you pay them indirectly.
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Fee Table
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Fees (paid directly from your investment) None
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Annual Operating Expenses (deducted from fund assets)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Management Fee 0.82%
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Distribution (12b-1) Fee None
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Other Expenses* 0.81%
-------
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Total Annual Operating Expenses 1.63%
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Expense Reimbursement 0.13%
-------
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Net Annual Operating Expenses** 1.50%
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
* Includes costs of shareholder servicing, custody, accounting services
and similar expenses, which may vary with fund size and other factors.
** By contract, total annual operating expenses are capped at 1.50%
through 2/28/2001.
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
Expense Example
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
This example is designed to help you compare this fund's expenses to those of
other funds. The example assumes the expenses above remain the same, and
includes one year of capped expenses in each period. It also assumes that you
invested $10,000, earned 5% annual returns, reinvested all dividends and
distributions and sold your shares at the end of each period. This is only an
example; your actual expenses will be different.
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
$153 $502 $874 $1,922
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
5
<PAGE>
Other Policies and Risks
While the sections on the previous pages describe the main points of the fund's
strategy and risks, there are a few other issues to know about:
o Although major changes tend to be infrequent, the fund's Board could
change the fund's goal without seeking shareholder approval.
o As a temporary defensive measure, the fund could shift up to 100% of
its assets into investments such as money market securities. This could
prevent losses, but would mean that the fund was not pursuing its goal.
o This fund may trade securities more frequently than some other bond
funds. This could raise transaction costs (and lower performance) and
could mean higher taxable distributions.
o The investment adviser measures credit quality at the time it buys
securities, using independent ratings or, for unrated securities, its
own credit analysis. If a security's credit quality changes, the
portfolio managers will decide what to do with the security based on
their assessment of what would benefit shareholders most.
Euro conversion
Funds which invest in foreign securities could be affected by accounting
differences, changes in tax treatment or other issues related to the conversion
of certain European currencies into the euro, which is already underway. The
investment adviser is working to address euro-related issues as they occur and
has been notified that other key service providers are taking similar steps.
Still, there's some risk that this problem could materially affect a fund's
operation (including its ability to calculate net asset value and to handle
purchases and redemptions), its investments or securities markets in general.
THE FOLLOWING SIDEBAR TEXT APPEARS NEXT TO THE PRECEDING PARAGRAPHS.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FOR MORE INFORMATION
This prospectus doesn't tell you about every policy or risk of investing in the
fund.
If you want more information on the fund's allowable securities and investment
practices and the characteristics and risks of each one, you may want to request
a copy of the Statement of Additional Information (the back cover tells you how
to do this).
Keep in mind that there is no assurance that any mutual fund will achieve its
goal.
6
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] Scudder Kemper, the company with overall responsibility for
managing the fund, takes a team approach to asset management.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Who Manages and Oversees the Fund
The investment adviser
The fund's investment adviser is Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc., 345 Park
Avenue, New York, NY. Scudder Kemper has more than 80 years of experience
managing mutual funds, and currently has more than $290 billion in assets under
management.
The fund is managed by a team of investment professionals, who individually
represent different areas of expertise and who together develop investment
strategies and make buy and sell decisions. Supporting the fund managers are
Scudder Kemper's many economists, research analysts, traders and other
investment specialists, located in offices across the United States and around
the world.
As payment for serving as investment adviser, Scudder Kemper receives a
management fee from the fund. For the 12 months through the most recent fiscal
year end, the actual amount the fund paid in management fees was 0.69% of
average daily net assets.
The portfolio managers
The following people handle the day-to-day management of the fund.
Jan C. Faller Jeremy L. Ragus
Lead Portfolio Manager o Began investment career
o Began investment career in in 1981
1988 o Joined the adviser in 1990
o Joined the adviser in 1999 o Joined the fund team
o Joined the fund team in 1999
in 1999
7
<PAGE>
The Board
A mutual fund's Board is responsible for the general oversight of the fund's
business. The majority of the Board is not affiliated with Scudder Kemper. The
independent members have primary responsibility for assuring that the fund is
managed in the best interests of its shareholders. The following people comprise
the fund's board.
Directors Honorary Directors
Sheryle J. Bolton Paul Bancroft III
o Chief Executive Officer, o Venture Capitalist and
Scientific Learning Corporation Consultant
William T. Burgin Thomas J. Devine
o General Partner, Bessemer o Consultant
Venture Partners
William H. Gleysteen, Jr.
Keith R. Fox o Consultant
o Private equity investor o Guest Scholar, Brookings
Institution
William H. Luers
o Chairman and President, U.N. Robert G. Stone, Jr.
Association of America o Chairman Emeritus and Director,
Kirby Corporation
Kathryn L. Quirk
o Managing Director,
Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc.
Joan E. Spero
o President, Doris Duke Charitable
Foundation
8
<PAGE>
Financial Highlights
This table is designed to help you understand the fund's financial performance
in recent years. The figures in the first part of the table are for a single
share. The total return figures represent the percentage that an investor in the
fund would have earned (or lost), assuming all dividends and distributions were
reinvested. This information has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP,
whose report, along with the fund's financial statements, is included in the
annual report (see "Shareholder reports" on the back cover).
Scudder International Bond Fund
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1999(c) 1998(b) 1998(a) 1997(a) 1996(a) 1995(a)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value, beginning of
period $10.70 $ 9.92 $10.52 $10.98 $11.43 $11.97
------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Income from investment operations:
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income .46 .18 .61 .58 .73 .98
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments (.74) .78 (.60) (.46) (.45) (.54)
------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations (.28) .96 .01 .12 .28 .44
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less distributions:
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
From net investment income (.02) -- -- (.58) (.12) --
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tax return of capital (.44) (.18) (.61) -- (.61) (.98)
------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total distributions (.46) (.18) (.61) (.58) (.73) (.98)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period $ 9.96 $10.70 $ 9.92 $10.52 $10.98 $11.43
------------------------------------------------------
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Return (%) -2.70(d) 9.76(d)** .10(d) .94 2.59 3.92
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratios and Supplemental Data
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets, end of period
($ millions) 115 150 146 236 515 910
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of operating expenses,
before expense reductions, to
average daily net assets (%) 1.63 1.58* 1.62 1.36 1.26 1.30
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of operating expenses,
net, to average daily net
assets (%) 1.50 1.50* 1.56 1.36 1.26 1.30
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ratio of net investment income
to average daily net assets (%) 4.44 5.20* 5.91 5.28 6.50 8.52
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 193.7 303.5* 190.1 298.2 275.7 318.5
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
(a) For the years ended June 30.
(b) For the four months ended October 31, 1998. On September 15, 1998, the
Board of the fund changed the fiscal year end from June 30 to October
31.
(c) For the year ended October 31, 1999.
(d) Total returns for certain periods would have been lower had certain
expenses not been reduced.
* Annualized
** Not annualized
9
<PAGE>
How to invest in the fund
The following pages tell you how to invest in the fund and what to expect as a
shareholder. If you're investing directly with Scudder, all of this information
applies to you.
If you're investing through a "third party provider" -- for example, a workplace
retirement plan, financial supermarket or financial adviser -- your provider may
have its own policies or instructions, and you should follow those.
<PAGE>
How to Buy Shares
Use these instructions to invest directly with Scudder. Make out your check to
"The Scudder Funds."
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
First investment Additional investments
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
$2,500 or more for regular $100 or more for regular
accounts accounts
$1,000 or more for IRAs $50 or more for IRAs
$50 or more with an Automatic
Investment Plan
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By mail or express o Fill out and sign an o Send a check and a Scudder
(see below) application investment slip to us at the
appropriate address below
o Send it to us at the
appropriate address, along o If you don't have an
with an investment check investment slip, simply include
a letter with your name,
account number, the full name
of the fund and your investment
instructions
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By wire o Call 1-800-SCUDDER for o Call 1-800-SCUDDER for
instructions instructions
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By phone -- o Call 1-800-SCUDDER for
instructions
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
With an automatic -- o To set up regular investments
investment plan from a bank checking account,
call 1-800-SCUDDER
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Using -- o Call 1-800-SCUDDER
QuickBuy
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] Regular mail:
The Scudder Funds, PO Box 2291, Boston, MA 02107-2291
Express, registered or certified mail:
The Scudder Funds, 66 Brooks Drive, Braintree, MA 02184-3839
Fax number: 1-800-821-6234 (for exchanging and selling only)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
11
<PAGE>
How to Exchange or Sell Shares
Use these instructions to exchange or sell shares in an account opened directly
with Scudder.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Exchanging into another fund Selling shares
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
$2,500 or more to open a new Some transactions, including
account ($1,000 for IRAs) most for over $100,000, can
only be ordered in writing; if
$100 or more for exchanges you're in doubt, see page 15
between existing accounts
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By phone or wire o Call 1-800-SCUDDER for o Call 1-800-SCUDDER for
instructions instructions
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Using SAIL(TM) o Call 1-800- 343-2890 and o Call 1-800-343-2890 and
follow the instructions follow the instructions
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By mail, express Write a letter that includes: Write a letter that includes:
or fax
(see previous o the fund, class and account o the fund, class and account
page) number you're exchanging number from which you want to
out of sell shares
o the dollar amount or number o the dollar amount or number
of shares you want to exchange of shares you want to sell
o the name and class of the o your name(s), signature(s)
fund you want to exchange into and address, as they appear on
your account
o your name(s), signature(s)
and address, as they appear o a daytime telephone number
on your account
o a daytime telephone number
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
With an automatic -- o To set up regular cash
withdrawal plan payments from a Scudder
account, call 1-800-SCUDDER
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Using QuickSell -- o Call 1-800-SCUDDER
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
12
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] Questions? You can speak to a Scudder representative between 8
a.m. and 8 p.m. Eastern time on any fund business day by
calling 1-800-SCUDDER.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Policies You Should Know About
Along with the instructions on the previous pages, the policies below may affect
you as a shareholder. Some of this information, such as the section on dividends
and taxes, applies to all investors, including those investing through
investment providers.
If you are investing through an investment provider, check the materials you got
from them. As a general rule, you should follow the information in those
materials wherever it contradicts the information given here. Please note that
an investment provider may charge its own fees.
Policies about transactions
The fund is open for business each day the New York Stock Exchange is open. The
fund calculates its share price every business day, as of the close of regular
trading on the Exchange (typically 4 p.m. Eastern time, but sometimes earlier,
as in the case of scheduled half-day trading or unscheduled suspensions of
trading).
You can place an order to buy or sell shares at any time. Once your order is
received by Scudder Service Corporation, and they have determined that it is a
"good order," it will be processed at the next share price calculated.
Because orders placed through investment providers must be forwarded to Scudder
Service Corporation before they can be processed, you'll need to allow extra
time. A representative of your investment provider should be able to tell you
when your order will be processed.
13
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] The Scudder Web site can be a valuable resource for
shareholders with Internet access. Go to www.scudder.com to
get up-to-date information, review balances or even place
orders for exchanges.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SAIL(TM), the Scudder Automated Information Line, is available 24 hours a day by
calling 1-800-343-2890. You can use SAIL to get information on Scudder funds
generally and on accounts held directly at Scudder. You can also use it to make
exchanges and sell shares.
QuickBuy and QuickSell let you set up a link between a Scudder account and a
bank account. Once this link is in place, you can move money between the two
with a phone call. You'll need to make sure your bank has Automated Clearing
House (ACH) services. To set up QuickBuy or QuickSell on a new account, see the
account application; to add it to an existing account, call 1-800-SCUDDER.
When you call us to sell shares, we may record the call, ask you for certain
information, or take other steps designed to prevent fraudulent orders. It's
important to understand that as long as we take reasonable steps to ensure that
an order appears genuine, we are not responsible for any losses that may occur.
When you ask us to send or receive a wire, please note that while we don't
charge a fee to receive wires, we will deduct a $5 fee from all wires sent from
us to your bank. Your bank may charge its own fees for handling wires. The funds
can only accept wires of $100 or more.
14
<PAGE>
Exchanges among Scudder funds are an option for shareholders who bought their
fund shares directly from Scudder and many other investors as well. Exchanges
are a shareholder privilege, not a right: we may reject any exchange order,
particularly when there appears to be a pattern of "market timing" or other
frequent purchases and sales. We may also reject purchase orders, for these or
other reasons.
When you want to sell more than $100,000 worth of shares, you'll usually need to
place your order in writing and include a signature guarantee. The only
exception is if you want money wired to a bank account that is already on file
with us; in that case, you don't need a signature guarantee. Also, you don't
need a signature guarantee for an exchange, although we may require one in
certain other circumstances.
A signature guarantee is simply a certification of your signature -- a valuable
safeguard against fraud. You can get a signature guarantee from most brokers,
banks, savings institutions and credit unions. Note that you can't get a
signature guarantee from a notary public.
Money from shares you sell is normally sent out within one business day of when
your order is processed (not when it is received), although it could be delayed
for up to seven days. There are also two circumstances when it could be longer:
when you are selling shares you bought recently by check and that check hasn't
cleared yet (maximum delay: 15 days) or when unusual circumstances prompt the
SEC to allow further delays.
15
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] If you ever have difficulty placing an order by phone or fax,
you can always send us your order in writing.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
How the fund calculates share price
The fund's share price is its net asset value per share, or NAV. To calculate
NAV, the fund uses the following equation:
TOTAL ASSETS - TOTAL LIABILITIES
------------------------------------ = NAV
TOTAL NUMBER OF SHARES OUTSTANDING
We typically use market prices to value securities. However, when a market price
isn't available, or when we have reason to believe it doesn't represent market
realities, we may use fair value methods approved by the fund's Board. In such a
case, the fund's value for a security is likely to be different from quoted
market prices.
Because the fund invests in securities that are traded primarily in foreign
markets, the value of its holdings could change at a time when you aren't able
to buy or sell fund shares. This is because some foreign markets are open on
days when the fund doesn't price its shares.
16
<PAGE>
Other rights we reserve
You should be aware that we may do any of the following:
o withhold 31% of your distributions as federal income tax if you have
been notified by the IRS that you are subject to backup withholding, or
if you fail to provide us with a correct taxpayer ID number or
certification that you are exempt from backup withholding
o charge you $10 a year if your account balance falls below $2,500, and
close your account and send you the proceeds if your balance falls
below $1,000; in either case, we will give you 60 days' notice so you
can either increase your balance or close your account (these policies
don't apply to retirement accounts, to investors with $100,000 or more
in Scudder fund shares or in any case where a fall in share price
created the low balance)
o reject a new account application if you don't provide a correct Social
Security or other tax ID number; if the account has already been
opened, we may give you 30 days' notice to provide the correct number
o pay you for shares you sell by "redeeming in kind," that is, by giving
you marketable securities (which typically will involve brokerage costs
for you to liquidate) rather than cash; generally, the fund won't make
a redemption in kind unless your requests over a 90-day period total
more than $250,000 or 1% of the value of the fund's net assets,
whichever is less
o change, add or withdraw various services, fees and account policies
(for example, we may change or terminate the exchange privilege at any
time)
17
<PAGE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[ICON] Because each shareholder's tax situation is unique, it's
always a good idea to ask your tax professional about the tax
consequences of your investments, including any state and
local tax consequences.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Understanding Distributions and Taxes
By law, a mutual fund is required to pass through to its shareholders virtually
all of its net earnings. A fund can earn money in two ways: by receiving
interest, dividends or other income from securities it holds, and by selling
securities for more than it paid for them. (A fund's earnings are separate from
any gains or losses stemming from your own purchase of shares.) A fund may not
always pay a distribution for a given period.
The fund has a regular schedule for paying out any earnings to shareholders:
o Income dividends: declared daily and paid monthly
o Short-term and long-term capital gains: December, or otherwise as
needed.
You can choose how to receive your dividends and distributions. You can have
them all automatically reinvested in fund shares or all sent to you by check.
Tell us your preference on your application. If you don't indicate a preference,
your dividends and distributions will all be reinvested. For retirement plans,
reinvestment is the only option.
Buying and selling fund shares will usually have tax consequences for you
(except in an IRA or other tax-advantaged account). Your sales of shares may
result in a capital gain or loss for you; whether long-term or short-term
depends on how long you owned the shares. For tax purposes, an exchange is the
same as a sale.
18
<PAGE>
The tax status of the fund earnings you receive, and your own fund transactions,
generally depends on their type:
Generally taxed at ordinary income rates
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
o short-term capital gains from selling fund shares
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
o taxable income dividends you receive from the fund
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
o short-term capital gains distributions you receive from the
fund
Generally taxed at capital gains rates
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
o long-term capital gains from selling fund shares
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
o long-term capital gains distributions you receive from the
fund
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
You may be able to claim a tax credit or deduction for your share of any foreign
taxes that the fund pays.
The fund will send you detailed tax information every January. These statements
tell you the amount and the tax category of any dividends or distributions you
received. They also have certain details on your purchases and sales of shares.
The tax status of dividends and distributions is the same whether you reinvest
them or not. Dividends or distributions declared in the last quarter of a given
year are taxed in that year, even though you may not receive the money until the
following January.
If you invest right before the fund pays a dividend, you'll be getting some of
your investment back as a taxable dividend. You can avoid this, if you want, by
investing after the fund declares a dividend. In tax-advantaged retirement
accounts you don't need to worry about this.
19
<PAGE>
Notes
<PAGE>
Notes
<PAGE>
To Get More Information
Shareholder reports -- These include commentary from the fund's management team
about recent market conditions and the effect of the fund's strategies on its
performance. They also have detailed performance figures, a list of everything
the fund owns and the fund's financial statements. Shareholders get these
reports automatically. To reduce costs, we may mail one copy per household. For
more copies, call 1-800-SCUDDER.
Statement of Additional Information (SAI) -- This tells you more about the
fund's features and policies, including additional risk information. The SAI is
incorporated by reference into this document (meaning that it's legally part of
this prospectus).
If you'd like to ask for copies of these documents, or if you're a shareholder
and have questions, please contact Scudder or the SEC (see below). Materials you
get from Scudder are free; those from the SEC involve a copying fee. If you
like, you can look over these materials at the SEC's Public Reference Room in
Washington, DC or request them electronically at [email protected].
Scudder Funds SEC
PO Box 2291 450 Fifth Street, N.W.
Boston, MA 02107-2291 Washington, DC 20549-6009
1-800-SCUDDER 1-202-942-8090
www.scudder.com www.sec.gov
SEC File Number 811-4670
<PAGE>
SCUDDER INTERNATIONAL BOND FUND
A series of Global/International Fund, Inc.
A Non-Diversified Mutual Fund Series which Seeks Income
Primarily by Investing in high-grade International Bonds. As a
Secondary Objective, the Fund
Seeks Protection and Possible Enhancement of Principal
Value by Actively Managing Currency, Bond Market and
Maturity Exposure and by Security Selection.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
March 1, 2000
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This Statement of Additional Information is not a prospectus and should be
read in conjunction with the prospectus of Scudder International Bond Fund dated
March 1, 2000, as amended from time to time, a copy of which may be obtained
without charge by writing to Scudder Investor Services, Inc., Two International
Place, Boston, Massachusetts 02110-4103.
The Annual Report to Shareholders for Scudder International Bond Fund
dated October 31, 1999, is incorporated by reference and is hereby deemed to be
part of this Statement of Additional Information.
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
THE FUND' INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES .............................. 1
General Investment Objectives and Policies ........................... 1
Master/feeder structure .............................................. 1
Special Investment Considerations .................................... 2
Investments and Investment Techniques ................................ 3
Investment Restrictions .............................................. 21
PURCHASES ................................................................. 23
Additional Information About Opening An Account ...................... 23
Minimum balances ..................................................... 23
Additional Information About Making Subsequent Investments by
Telephone Order ...................................................... 24
Additional Information About Making Subsequent Investments by
QuickBuy ............................................................. 24
Checks ............................................................... 25
Wire Transfer of Federal Funds ....................................... 25
Share Price .......................................................... 25
Share Certificates ................................................... 25
Other Information .................................................... 25
EXCHANGES AND REDEMPTIONS ................................................. 26
Exchanges ............................................................ 26
Redemption by Telephone .............................................. 27
Redemption by QuickSell .............................................. 27
Redemption by Mail or Fax ............................................ 28
Redemption-in-Kind ................................................... 28
Other Information .................................................... 28
FEATURES AND SERVICES OFFERED BY THE FUND ................................. 29
The No-Load Concept(TM)............................................... 29
Internet access ...................................................... 30
Dividends and Capital Gains Distribution Options ..................... 30
Reports to Shareholders .............................................. 31
Transaction Summaries ................................................ 31
THE SCUDDER FAMILY OF FUNDS ............................................... 31
SPECIAL PLAN ACCOUNTS ..................................................... 33
Scudder Retirement Plans: Profit-Sharing and Money Purchase
Pension Plans for Corporations and Self-Employed Individuals ........ 33
Scudder 401(k): Cash or Deferred Profit-Sharing Plan for
Corporations and Self-Employed Individuals........................... 33
Scudder IRA: Individual Retirement Account .......................... 34
Scudder Roth IRA: Individual Retirement Account ..................... 34
Scudder 403(b) Plan .................................................. 35
Automatic Withdrawal Plan ............................................ 35
Group or Salary Deduction Plan ....................................... 35
Automatic Investment Plan ............................................ 35
Uniform Transfers/Gifts to Minors Act ................................ 36
DIVIDENDS AND CAPITAL GAINS DISTRIBUTIONS ................................. 36
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION ................................................... 36
Average Annual Total Return .......................................... 36
Cumulative Total Return .............................................. 37
Total Return ......................................................... 37
Yield ................................................................ 37
Comparison of Fund Performance ....................................... 38
ORGANIZATION OF THE FUND .................................................. 39
i
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS (continued)
Page
INVESTMENT ADVISER ........................................................ 40
Personal Investments by Employees of the Adviser ..................... 43
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS .................................................... 43
REMUNERATION .............................................................. 46
Responsibilities of the Board - Board and Committee Meetings ....... 46
Compensation of Officers and Directors ............................... 46
DISTRIBUTOR ............................................................... 47
TAXES ..................................................................... 48
PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS .................................................... 52
Brokerage Commissions ................................................ 52
Portfolio Turnover ................................................... 53
NET ASSET VALUE ........................................................... 53
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION .................................................... 54
Experts .............................................................. 54
Other Information .................................................... 54
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS ...................................................... 55
APPENDIX
ii
<PAGE>
THE FUND'S INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
On May 29, 1998, the name "Scudder Global Fund, Inc." was changed to
"Global/International Fund, Inc." Global/International Fund, Inc., a Maryland
corporation of which Scudder International Bond Fund ("International Bond Fund")
is a no-load, non-diversified series, is referred to herein as the
"Corporation." International Bond Fund is referred to herein as the "Fund." The
Corporation is an open-end, management investment company, which continuously
offers and redeems its shares. The Corporation is a company of the type commonly
known as a mutual fund.
Descriptions in this Statement of Additional Information of a particular
investment practice or technique in which the Fund may engage (such as short
selling, hedging, etc.) or a financial instrument which the Fund may purchase
(such as options, forward foreign currency contracts, etc.) are meant to
describe the spectrum of investments that Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. (the
"Adviser"), in its discretion, might, but is not required to, use in managing
the Fund's portfolio assets. The Adviser may, in its discretion, at any time
employ such practice, technique or instrument for one or more funds but not for
all funds advised by it. Furthermore, it is possible that certain types of
financial instruments or investment techniques described herein may not be
available, permissible, economically feasible or effective for their intended
purposes in all markets. Certain practices, techniques, or instruments may not
be principal activities of a Fund but, to the extent employed, could from time
to time have a material impact on the Fund's performance.
Except as otherwise indicated, the Fund's objectives and policies are not
fundamental and may be changed without a shareholder vote. There can be no
assurance that the Fund will achieve its objectives.
Changes in portfolio securities are made on the basis of investment
considerations, and it is against the policy of management to make changes for
trading purposes.
General Investment Objectives and Policies
International Bond Fund may offer investors a convenient way to invest in a
managed portfolio of debt securities denominated in foreign currencies
("international securities"). The Fund's objective is to provide income
primarily by investing in a managed portfolio of high-grade international bonds.
As a secondary objective, the Fund seeks protection and possible enhancement of
principal value by actively managing currency, bond market and maturity exposure
and by security selection. To achieve its objectives, the Fund will primarily
invest in international bonds that are denominated in foreign currencies,
including bonds denominated in the European Currency Unit (ECU). The Fund's
investments may include debt securities issued or guaranteed by a foreign
national government, its agencies, instrumentalities or political subdivisions,
debt securities issued or guaranteed by supranational organizations, corporate
debt securities, bank or bank holding company debt securities and other debt
securities including those convertible into common stock. In addition, for
temporary defensive purposes, the Fund may vary from its investment policies
during periods when the Adviser determines that it is advisable to do so because
of conditions in the securities markets or other economic or political
conditions. During such periods, the Fund may hold without limit cash and cash
equivalents. It is impossible to accurately predict for how long such
alternative strategies may be utilized. The Fund will invest no more than 15% of
its total assets in debt securities that are rated below BBB by S&P or below Baa
by Moody's, but rated no lower than B by S&P or Moody's, respectively. The Fund
may also invest in zero coupon securities that pay no cash income and are issued
at substantial discounts from their value at maturity. When held to maturity,
their entire income, which consists of accretion of discount, comes from the
difference between the issue price and their value at maturity.
Master/feeder structure
The Board of Directors has the discretion to retain the current
distribution arrangement for the Fund while investing in a master fund in a
master/feeder fund structure as described below.
A master/feeder fund structure is one in which a fund (a "feeder fund"),
instead of investing directly in a portfolio of securities, invests most or all
of its investment assets in a separate registered investment company (the
"master fund") with substantially the same investment objective and policies as
the feeder fund. Such a structure permits the pooling of assets of two or more
feeder funds, preserving separate identities or distribution channels at the
feeder fund level. Based on the premise that certain of the expenses of
operating an investment portfolio are relatively fixed, a
<PAGE>
larger investment portfolio may eventually achieve a lower ratio of operating
expenses to average net assets. An existing investment company is able to
convert to a feeder fund by selling all of its investments, which involves
brokerage and other transaction costs and realization of a taxable gain or loss,
or by contributing its assets to the master fund and avoiding transaction costs
and, if proper procedures are followed, the realization of taxable gain or loss.
Interfund Borrowing and Lending Program
The Corporation's Board of Directors has approved the filing of an application
for exemptive relief with the SEC which would permit the Fund to participate in
an interfund lending program among certain investment companies advised by the
Adviser. If the Fund receives the requested relief, the interfund lending
program would allow the participating funds to borrow money from and loan money
to each other for temporary or emergency purposes. The program would be subject
to a number of conditions designed to ensure fair and equitable treatment of all
participating funds, including the following: (1) no fund may borrow money
through the program unless it receives a more favorable interest rate than a
rate approximating the lowest interest rate at which bank loans would be
available to any of the participating funds under a loan agreement; and (2) no
fund may lend money through the program unless it receives a more favorable
return than that available from an investment in repurchase agreements and, to
the extent applicable, money market cash sweep arrangements. In addition, a fund
would participate in the program only if and to the extent that such
participation is consistent with the fund's investment objectives and policies
(for instance, money market funds would normally participate only as lenders and
tax exempt funds only as borrowers). Interfund loans and borrowings would extend
overnight, but could have a maximum duration of seven days. Loans could be
called on one day's notice. A fund may have to borrow from a bank at a higher
interest rate if an interfund loan is called or not renewed. Any delay in
repayment to a lending fund could result in a lost investment opportunity or
additional costs. The program is subject to the oversight and periodic review of
the Boards of the participating funds. To the extent the Fund is actually
engaged in borrowing through the interfund lending program, the Fund, as a
matter of non-fundamental policy, may not borrow for other than temporary or
emergency purposes (and not for leveraging), except that the Fund may engage in
reverse repurchase agreements and dollar rolls for any purpose.
Special Investment Considerations of the Fund
The Fund is intended to provide individual and institutional investors with
an opportunity to invest a portion of their assets in globally and/or
internationally oriented portfolios, according to the Fund's respective
objectives and policies, and are designed for long-term investors who can accept
international investment risk. Management of the Fund believes that allocation
of assets on a global or international basis decreases the degree to which
events in any one country, including the U.S., will affect an investor's entire
investment holdings. In the period since World War II, many leading foreign
economies have grown more rapidly than the U.S. economy, thus providing
investment opportunities; although there can be no assurance that this will be
true in the future. As with any long-term investment, the value of the Fund's
shares when sold may be higher or lower than when purchased.
Investors should recognize that investing in foreign securities involves
certain special considerations, including those set forth below, which are not
typically associated with investing in U.S. securities and which may favorably
or unfavorably affect the Fund's performance. As foreign companies are not
generally subject to uniform standards, practices and requirements, with respect
to accounting, auditing and financial reporting, as are domestic companies,
there may be less publicly available information about a foreign company than
about a domestic company. Many foreign securities markets, while growing in
volume of trading activity, have substantially less volume than the U.S. market,
and securities of some foreign issuers are less liquid and more volatile than
securities of domestic issuers. Similarly, volume and liquidity in most foreign
bond markets is less than in the U.S. and, at times, volatility of price can be
greater than in the U.S. Further, foreign markets have different clearance and
settlement procedures and in certain markets there have been times when
settlements have been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities
transactions making it difficult to conduct such transactions. Delays in
settlement could result in temporary periods when assets of the Fund are
uninvested and no return is earned thereon. The inability of the Fund to make
intended security purchases due to settlement problems could cause the Fund to
miss attractive investment opportunities. Inability to dispose of portfolio
securities due to settlement problems either could result in losses to the Fund
due to subsequent declines in value of the portfolio security or, if the Fund
has entered into a contract to sell the security, could result in possible
liability to the purchaser. Fixed commissions on some foreign securities
exchanges and bid to asked spreads in foreign bond markets are generally higher
than negotiated commissions on U.S. exchanges and bid to asked spreads in the
U.S. bond market, although the Fund will endeavor to achieve the most favorable
net results on their
2
<PAGE>
portfolio transactions. Further, the Fund may encounter difficulties or be
unable to pursue legal remedies and obtain judgments in foreign courts. There is
generally less governmental supervision and regulation of business and industry
practices, securities exchanges, brokers and listed companies than in the U.S.
It may be more difficult for the Fund's agents to keep currently informed about
corporate actions such as stock dividends or other matters which may affect the
prices of portfolio securities. Communications between the U.S. and foreign
countries may be less reliable than within the U.S., thus increasing the risk of
delayed settlements of portfolio transactions or loss of certificates for
portfolio securities. Payment for securities without delivery may be required in
certain foreign markets. In addition, with respect to certain foreign countries,
there is the possibility of expropriation or confiscatory taxation, political or
social instability, or diplomatic developments, which could affect U.S.
investments in those countries. Investments in foreign securities may also
entail certain risks, such as possible currency blockages or transfer
restrictions, and the difficulty of enforcing rights in other countries.
Moreover, individual foreign economies may differ favorably or unfavorably from
the U.S. economy in such respects as growth of gross national product, rate of
inflation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and balance of
payments position. The management of the Fund seeks to mitigate the risks
associated with the foregoing considerations through continuous professional
management.
These considerations generally are more of a concern in developing
countries. For example, the possibility of revolution and the dependence on
foreign economic assistance may be greater in these countries than in developed
countries. Investments in companies domiciled in developing countries may be
subject to potentially greater risks than investments in developed countries.
Investments in foreign securities usually will involve currencies of
foreign countries. Because of the considerations discussed above, the value of
the assets of the Fund as measured in U.S. dollars may be affected favorably or
unfavorably by changes in foreign currency exchange rates and exchange control
regulations, and the Fund may incur costs in connection with conversions between
various currencies. Although the Fund values its assets daily in terms of U.S.
dollars, they do not intend to convert their holdings of foreign currencies into
U.S. dollars on a daily basis. They will do so from time to time, and investors
should be aware of the costs of currency conversion. Although foreign exchange
dealers do not charge a fee for conversion, they do realize a profit based on
the difference (the "spread") between the prices at which they are buying and
selling various currencies. Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign currency
to the Fund at one rate, while offering a lesser rate of exchange should the
Fund desire to resell that currency to the dealer. The Fund will conduct its
foreign currency exchange transactions either on a spot (i.e., cash) basis at
the spot rate prevailing in the foreign currency exchange market, or through
entering into strategic transactions involving currencies (see "Strategic
Transactions and Derivatives").
Because the Fund may be invested in both U.S. and foreign securities
markets, changes in the Fund's share price may have a low correlation with
movements in the U.S. markets. The Fund's share price will reflect the movements
of both the different stock and bond markets in which it is invested and of the
currencies in which the investments are denominated; the strength or weakness of
the U.S. dollar against foreign currencies may account for part of the Fund's
investment performance. Foreign securities such as those purchased by the Fund
may be subject to foreign governmental taxes which could reduce the yield on
such securities, although a shareholder of the Fund may, subject to certain
limitations, be entitled to claim a credit or deduction for U.S. federal income
tax purposes for his or her proportionate share of such foreign taxes paid by
the Fund (see "TAXES"). U.S. and foreign securities markets do not always move
in step with each other, and the total returns from different markets may vary
significantly. The Fund invests in many securities markets around the world in
an attempt to take advantage of opportunities wherever they may arise.
Because of the Fund's investment considerations discussed above and the
investment policies, investment in shares of a Fund is not intended to provide a
complete investment program for an investor.
Neither Fund can guarantee a gain or eliminate the risk of loss. The net
asset value of the Fund's shares will increase or decrease with changes in the
market price of the Fund's investments, and there is no assurance that the
Fund's objectives will be achieved.
Investments and Investment Techniques
Foreign Securities. The Fund is designed for investors who can accept currency
and other forms of international investment risk. The Adviser believes that
allocation of the Fund's assets on a global basis decreases the degree to
3
<PAGE>
which events in any one country, including the U.S., will affect an investor's
entire investment holdings. In the period since World War II, many leading
foreign economies have grown more rapidly than the U.S. economy and from time to
time have had interest rate levels that had a higher real return than the U.S.
bond market. Consequently, the securities of foreign issuers have provided
attractive returns relative to the returns provided by the securities of U.S.
issuers, although there can be no assurance that this will be true in the
future.
Investors should recognize that investing in foreign securities involves
certain special considerations, including those set forth below, which are not
typically associated with investing in U.S. securities and which may affect the
Fund's performance favorably or unfavorably. As foreign companies are not
generally subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting
standards, practices and requirements comparable to those applicable to domestic
companies, there may be less publicly available information about a foreign
company than about a domestic company. Many foreign stock markets, while growing
in volume of trading activity, have substantially less volume than that of the
New York Stock Exchange, Inc. (the "Exchange"), and securities of some foreign
issuers are less liquid and more volatile than securities of domestic issuers.
Similarly, volume and liquidity in most foreign bond markets is less than that
in the U.S. market and at times, volatility of price can be greater than in the
U.S. Further, foreign markets have different clearance and settlement procedures
and in certain markets there have been times when settlements have been unable
to keep pace with the volume of securities transactions, making it difficult to
conduct such transactions. Delays in settlement could result in temporary
periods when assets of the Fund are uninvested and no return is earned thereon.
The inability of the Fund to make intended security purchases due to settlement
problems could cause the Fund to miss attractive investment opportunities.
Inability to dispose of portfolio securities due to settlement problems either
could result in losses to the Fund due to subsequent declines in value of the
portfolio security or, if the Fund has entered into a contract to sell the
security, could result in possible liability to the purchaser. Fixed commissions
on some foreign securities exchanges are generally higher than negotiated
commissions on U.S. exchanges, although the Adviser will endeavor to achieve the
most favorable net results on the Fund's portfolio transactions. Further, the
Fund may encounter difficulties or be unable to pursue legal remedies and obtain
judgment in foreign courts. There is generally less government supervision and
regulation of business and industry practices, securities exchanges, brokers and
listed companies than in the U.S. It may be more difficult for the Fund's agents
to keep currently informed about corporate actions such as stock dividends or
other matters that may affect the prices of portfolio securities. Communications
between the U.S. and foreign countries may be less reliable than within the
U.S., thus increasing the risk of delayed settlements of portfolio transactions
or loss of certificates for portfolio securities. In addition, with respect to
certain foreign countries, there is the possibility of nationalization,
expropriation, the imposition of confiscatory or withholding taxation,
political, social or economic instability, or diplomatic developments that could
affect U.S. investments in those countries. Investments in foreign securities
may also entail certain risks, such as possible currency blockages or transfer
restrictions, and the difficulty of enforcing rights in other countries.
Moreover, individual foreign economies may differ favorably or unfavorably from
the U.S. economy in such respects as growth of gross national product, rate of
inflation, capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and balance of
payments position. The Adviser seeks to mitigate the risks to the Fund
associated with the foregoing considerations through investment variation and
continuous professional management.
Eastern Europe. Investments in companies domiciled in Eastern European countries
may be subject to potentially greater risks than those of other foreign issuers.
These risks include (i) potentially less social, political and economic
stability; (ii) the small current size of the markets for such securities and
the low volume of trading, which result in less liquidity and in greater price
volatility; (iii) certain national policies which may restrict the Fund's
investment opportunities, including restrictions on investment in issuers or
industries deemed sensitive to national interests; (iv) foreign taxation; (v)
the absence of developed legal structures governing private or foreign
investment or allowing for judicial redress for injury to private property; (vi)
the absence, until recently in certain Eastern European countries, of a capital
market structure or market-oriented economy; and (vii) the possibility that
recent favorable economic developments in Eastern Europe may be slowed or
reversed by unanticipated political or social events in such countries, or in
the countries of the former Soviet Union.
Investments in such countries involve risks of nationalization,
expropriation and confiscatory taxation. The Communist governments of a number
of East European countries expropriated large amounts of private property in the
past, in many cases without adequate compensation, and there may be no assurance
that such expropriation will not occur in the future. In the event of such
expropriation, the Fund could lose a substantial portion of any investments it
has made in the affected countries. Further, no accounting standards exist in
East European countries. Finally, even
4
<PAGE>
though certain East European currencies may be convertible into U.S. dollars,
the conversion rates may be artificial to the actual market values and may be
adverse to the Fund's shareholders.
Foreign Currencies. Investments in foreign securities usually will involve
currencies of foreign countries. Moreover, the Fund may temporarily hold funds
in bank deposits in foreign currencies during the completion of investment
programs and may purchase forward foreign currency contracts, foreign currency
futures contracts and options on such contracts. Because of these factors, the
value of the assets of the Fund as measured in U.S. dollars may be affected
favorably or unfavorably by changes in foreign currency exchange rates and
exchange control regulations, and the Fund may incur costs in connection with
conversions between various currencies. Although the Fund's custodian values the
Fund's assets daily in terms of U.S. dollars, the Fund intends to convert its
holdings of foreign currencies into U.S. dollars on a daily basis. The Fund will
do so from time to time, and investors should be aware of the costs of currency
conversion. Although foreign exchange dealers do not charge a fee for
conversion, they do realize a profit based on the difference (the "spread")
between the prices at which they are buying and selling various currencies.
Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign currency to the Fund at one rate,
while offering a lesser rate of exchange should the Fund desire to resell that
currency to the dealer. The Fund will conduct its foreign currency exchange
transactions either on a spot (i.e., cash) basis at the spot rate prevailing in
the foreign currency exchange market, or through entering into forward or
futures contracts to purchase or sell foreign currencies.
Because the Fund normally will be invested in both U.S. and foreign
securities markets, changes in the Fund's share price may have a low correlation
with movements in the U.S. markets. The Fund's share price will reflect the
movements of both the different stock and bond markets in which it is invested
and of the currencies in which the investments are denominated; the strength or
weakness of the U.S. dollar against foreign currencies may account for part of
the Fund's investment performance. U.S. and foreign securities markets do not
always move in step with each other, and the total returns from different
markets may vary significantly. The Fund invests in many securities markets
around the world in an attempt to take advantage of opportunities wherever they
may arise.
Investing in Emerging Markets. Most emerging securities markets may have
substantially less volume and are subject to less government supervision than
U.S. securities markets. Securities of many issuers in emerging markets may be
less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable domestic issuers. In
addition, there is less regulation of securities exchanges, securities dealers,
and listed and unlisted companies in emerging markets than in the U.S.
Emerging markets also have different clearance and settlement procedures,
and in certain markets there have been times when settlements have been unable
to keep pace with the volume of securities transactions. Delays in settlement
could result in temporary periods when a portion of the assets of the Fund is
uninvested and no cash is earned thereon. The inability of the Fund to make
intended security purchases due to settlement problems could cause the Fund to
miss attractive investment opportunities. Inability to dispose of portfolio
securities due to settlement problems could result either in losses to the Fund
due to subsequent declines in value of the portfolio security or, if the Fund
has entered into a contract to sell the security, could result in possible
liability to the purchaser. Costs associated with transactions in foreign
securities are generally higher than costs associated with transactions in U.S.
securities. Such transactions also involve additional costs for the purchase or
sale of foreign currency.
Foreign investment in certain emerging market debt obligations is
restricted or controlled to varying degrees. These restrictions or controls may
at times limit or preclude foreign investment in certain emerging markets debt
obligations and increase the costs and expenses of the Fund. Certain emerging
markets require prior governmental approval of investments by foreign persons,
limit the amount of investment by foreign persons in a particular company, limit
the investment by foreign persons only to a specific class of securities of a
company that may have less advantageous rights than the classes available for
purchase by domiciliaries of the countries and/or impose additional taxes on
foreign investors. Certain emerging markets may also restrict investment
opportunities in issuers in industries deemed important to national interest.
Certain emerging markets may require governmental approval for the
repatriation of investment income, capital or the proceeds of sales of
securities by foreign investors. In addition, if a deterioration occurs in an
emerging market's balance of payments or for other reasons, a country could
impose temporary restrictions on foreign capital remittances. The Fund could be
adversely affected by delays in, or a refusal to grant, any required
governmental approval for repatriation of capital, as well as by the application
to the Fund of any restrictions on investments.
5
<PAGE>
In the course of investment in emerging market debt obligations, the Fund
will be exposed to the direct or indirect consequences of political, social and
economic changes in one or more emerging markets. Political changes in emerging
market countries may affect the willingness of an emerging market country
governmental issuer to make or provide for timely payments of its obligations.
The country's economic status, as reflected, among other things, in its
inflation rate, the amount of its external debt and its gross domestic product,
also affects its ability to honor its obligations. While the Fund manages its
assets in a manner that will seek to minimize the exposure to such risks, and
will further reduce risk by owning the bonds of many issuers, there can be no
assurance that adverse political, social or economic changes will not cause the
Fund to suffer a loss of value in respect of the securities in the Fund's
portfolio.
The risk also exists that an emergency situation may arise in one or more
emerging markets as a result of which trading of securities may cease or may be
substantially curtailed and prices for the Fund's securities in such markets may
not be readily available. The Corporation may suspend redemption of its shares
for any period during which an emergency exists, as determined by the Securities
and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). Accordingly if the Fund believes that
appropriate circumstances exist, it will promptly apply to the SEC for a
determination that an emergency is present. During the period commencing from
the Fund's identification of such condition until the date of the SEC action,
the Fund's securities in the affected markets will be valued at fair value
determined in good faith by or under the direction of the Corporation's Board of
Directors.
Volume and liquidity in most foreign bond markets are less than in the U.S.
and securities of many foreign companies are less liquid and more volatile than
securities of comparable U.S. companies. Fixed commissions on foreign securities
exchanges are generally higher than negotiated commissions on U.S. exchanges,
although the Fund endeavors to achieve the most favorable net results on its
portfolio transactions. There is generally less government supervision and
regulation of business and industry practices, securities exchanges, brokers,
dealers and listed companies than in the U.S. Mail service between the U.S. and
foreign countries may be slower or less reliable than within the U.S., thus
increasing the risk of delayed settlements of portfolio transactions or loss of
certificates for portfolio securities. In addition, with respect to certain
emerging markets, there is the possibility of expropriation or confiscatory
taxation, political or social instability, or diplomatic developments, which
could affect the Fund's investments in those countries. Moreover, individual
emerging market economies may differ favorably or unfavorably from the U.S.
economy in such respects as growth of gross national product, rate of inflation,
capital reinvestment, and resource self-sufficiency and balance of payments
position.
The Fund may have limited legal recourse in the event of a default with
respect to certain debt obligations it holds. If the issuer of a fixed-income
security owned by the Fund defaults, the Fund may incur additional expenses to
seek recovery. Debt obligations issued by emerging market country governments
differ from debt obligations of private entities; remedies from defaults on debt
obligations issued by emerging market governments, unlike those on private debt,
must be pursued in the courts of the defaulting party itself. The Fund's ability
to enforce its rights against private issuers may be limited. The ability to
attach assets to enforce a judgment may be limited. Legal recourse is therefore
somewhat diminished. Bankruptcy, moratorium and other similar laws applicable to
private issuers of debt obligations may be substantially different from those of
other countries. The political context, expressed as an emerging market
governmental issuer's willingness to meet the terms of the debt obligation, for
example, is of considerable importance. In addition, no assurance can be given
that the holders of commercial bank debt may not contest payments to the holders
of debt obligations in the event of default under commercial bank loan
agreements. With four exceptions, (Panama, Cuba, Costa Rica and Yugoslavia), no
sovereign emerging markets borrower has defaulted on an external bond issue
since World War II.
Income from securities held by the Fund could be reduced by a withholding
tax on the source or other taxes imposed by the emerging market countries in
which the Fund makes its investments. The Fund's net asset value may also be
affected by changes in the rates or methods of taxation applicable to the Fund
or to entities in which the Fund has invested. The Adviser will consider the
cost of any taxes in determining whether to acquire any particular investments,
but can provide no assurance that the taxes will not be subject to change.
Many emerging markets have experienced substantial, and in some periods
extremely high rates of inflation for many years. Inflation and rapid
fluctuations in inflation rates have had and may continue to have adverse
effects on the economies and securities markets of certain emerging market
countries. In an attempt to control inflation, wage and price controls have been
imposed in certain countries. Of these countries, some, in recent years, have
begun to control inflation through prudent economic policies.
6
<PAGE>
Emerging market governmental issuers are among the largest debtors to
commercial banks, foreign governments, international financial organizations and
other financial institutions. Certain emerging market governmental issuers have
not been able to make payments of interest on or principal of debt obligations
as those payments have come due. Obligations arising from past restructuring
agreements may affect the economic performance and political and social
stability of those issuers.
Governments of many emerging market countries have exercised and continue
to exercise substantial influence over many aspects of the private sector
through the ownership or control of many companies, including some of the
largest in any given country. As a result, government actions in the future
could have a significant effect on economic conditions in emerging markets,
which in turn, may adversely affect companies in the private sector, general
market conditions and prices and yields of certain of the securities in the
Fund's portfolio. Expropriation, confiscatory taxation, nationalization,
political, economic or social instability or other similar developments have
occurred frequently over the history of certain emerging markets and could
adversely affect the Fund's assets should these conditions recur.
The ability of emerging market country governmental issuers to make timely
payments on their obligations is likely to be influenced strongly by the
issuer's balance of payments, including export performance, and its access to
international credits and investments. An emerging market whose exports are
concentrated in a few commodities could be vulnerable to a decline in the
international prices of one or more of those commodities. Increased
protectionism on the part of an emerging market's trading partners could also
adversely affect the country's exports and diminish its trade account surplus,
if any. To the extent that emerging markets receive payment for its exports in
currencies other than dollars or non-emerging market currencies, its ability to
make debt payments denominated in dollars or non-emerging market currencies
could be affected.
To the extent that an emerging market country cannot generate a trade
surplus, it must depend on continuing loans from foreign governments,
multilateral organizations or private commercial banks, aid payments from
foreign governments and on inflows of foreign investment. The access of emerging
markets to these forms of external funding may not be certain, and a withdrawal
of external funding could adversely affect the capacity of emerging market
country governmental issuers to make payments on their obligations. In addition,
the cost of servicing emerging market debt obligations can be affected by a
change in international interest rates since the majority of these obligations
carry interest rates that are adjusted periodically based upon international
rates.
Another factor bearing on the ability of emerging market countries to repay
debt obligations is the level of international reserves of the country.
Fluctuations in the level of these reserves affect the amount of foreign
exchange readily available for external debt payments and thus could have a
bearing on the capacity of emerging market countries to make payments on these
debt obligations.
Investing in Latin America. Investing in securities of Latin American issuers
may entail risks relating to the potential political and economic instability of
certain Latin American countries and the risks of expropriation,
nationalization, confiscation or the imposition of restrictions on foreign
investment and on repatriation of capital invested. In the event of
expropriation, nationalization or other confiscation by any country, the Fund
could lose its entire investment in any such country.
The securities markets of Latin American countries are substantially
smaller, less developed, less liquid and more volatile than the major securities
markets in the U.S. Disclosure and regulatory standards are in many respects
less stringent than U.S. standards. Furthermore, there is a lower level of
monitoring and regulation of the markets and the activities of investors in such
markets.
The limited size of many Latin American securities markets and limited
trading volume in the securities of Latin American issuers compared to volume of
trading in the securities of U.S. issuers could cause prices to be erratic for
reasons apart from factors that affect the soundness and competitiveness of the
securities issuers. For example, limited market size may cause prices to be
unduly influenced by traders who control large positions. Adverse publicity and
investors' perceptions, whether or not based on in-depth fundamental analysis,
may decrease the value and liquidity of portfolio securities.
7
<PAGE>
The Fund may invest a portion of its assets in securities denominated in
currencies of Latin American countries. Accordingly, changes in the value of
these currencies against the U.S. dollar may result in corresponding changes in
the U.S. dollar value of the Fund's assets denominated in those currencies.
Some Latin American countries also may have managed currencies, which are
not free floating against the U.S. dollar. In addition, there is risk that
certain Latin American countries may restrict the free conversion of their
currencies into other currencies. Further, certain Latin American currencies may
not be internationally traded. Certain of these currencies have experienced a
steep devaluation relative to the U.S. dollar. Any devaluations in the
currencies in which the Fund's portfolio securities are denominated may have a
detrimental impact on the Fund's net asset value.
The economies of individual Latin American countries may differ favorably
or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as the rate of growth of
gross domestic product, the rate of inflation, capital reinvestment, resource
self-sufficiency and balance of payments position. Certain Latin American
countries have experienced high levels of inflation which can have a
debilitating effect on an economy, although some have begun to control inflation
in recent years through prudent economic policies. Furthermore, certain Latin
American countries may impose withholding taxes on dividends payable to the Fund
at a higher rate than those imposed by other foreign countries. This may reduce
the Fund's investment income available for distribution to shareholders.
Certain Latin American countries such as Argentina, Brazil and Mexico are
among the world's largest debtors to commercial banks and foreign governments.
At times, certain Latin American countries have declared moratoria on the
payment of principal and/or interest on outstanding debt.
Latin America is a region rich in natural resources such as oil, copper,
tin, silver, iron ore, forestry, fishing, livestock and agriculture. The region
has a large population (roughly 300 million) representing a large domestic
market. Economic growth was strong in the 1960s and 1970s, but slowed
dramatically (and in some instances was negative) in the 1980s as a result of
poor economic policies, higher international interest rates, and the denial of
access to new foreign capital. Although a number of Latin American countries are
currently experiencing lower rates of inflation and higher rates of real growth
in gross domestic product than they have in the past, other Latin American
countries continue to experience significant problems, including high inflation
rates and high interest rates. Capital flight has proven a persistent problem
and external debt has been forcibly restructured. Political turmoil, high
inflation, capital repatriation restrictions, and nationalization have further
exacerbated conditions.
Governments of many Latin American countries have exercised and continue to
exercise substantial influence over many aspects of the private sector through
the ownership or control of many companies, including some of the largest in
those countries. As a result, government actions in the future could have a
significant effect on economic conditions which may adversely affect prices of
certain portfolio securities. Expropriation, confiscatory taxation,
nationalization, political, economic or social instability or other similar
developments, such as military coups, have occurred in the past and could also
adversely affect the Fund's investments in this region.
Changes in political leadership, the implementation of market oriented
economic policies, such as privatization, trade reform and fiscal and monetary
reform are among the recent steps taken to renew economic growth. External debt
is being restructured and flight capital (domestic capital that has left home
country) has begun to return. Inflation control efforts have also been
implemented. Free Trade Zones are being discussed in various areas around the
region, the most notable being a free zone among Mexico, the U.S. and Canada and
another zone among four countries in the southernmost point of Latin America.
Currencies are typically weak, but most are now relatively free floating, and it
is not unusual for the currencies to undergo wide fluctuations in value over
short periods of time due to changes in the market.
Investing in the Pacific Basin. Economies of individual Pacific Basin countries
may differ favorably or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as
growth of gross national product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment,
resource self-sufficiency, interest rate levels, and balance of payments
position. Of particular importance, most of the economies in this region of the
world are heavily dependent upon exports, particularly to developed countries,
and, accordingly, have been and may continue to be adversely affected by trade
barriers, managed adjustments in relative currency values, and other
protectionist measures imposed or negotiated by the U.S. and other countries
with which they trade. These economies also have been and may continue to be
negatively impacted by economic conditions in the U.S. and other trading
partners, which can lower the demand for goods produced in the Pacific Basin.
8
<PAGE>
With respect to the Peoples Republic of China and other markets in which
the Fund may participate, there is the possibility of nationalization,
expropriation or confiscatory taxation, political changes, government
regulation, social instability or diplomatic developments that could adversely
impact a Pacific Basin country or the Fund's investment in the debt of that
country.
Foreign companies, including Pacific Basin companies, are not generally
subject to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards,
practices and disclosure requirements comparable to those applicable to U.S.
companies. Consequently, there may be less publicly available information about
such companies than about U.S. companies. Moreover, there is generally less
government supervision and regulation in the Pacific Basin than in the U.S.
Investing in Europe. Most Eastern European nations, including Hungary, Poland,
Czech Republic, Slovak Republic, and Romania have had centrally planned,
socialist economies since shortly after World War II. A number of their
governments, including those of Hungary, the Czech Republic, and Poland are
currently implementing or considering reforms directed at political and economic
liberalization, including efforts to foster multi-party political systems,
decentralize economic planning, and move toward free market economies. At
present, no Eastern European country has a developed stock market, but Poland,
Hungary, and the Czech Republic have small securities markets in operation.
Ethnic and civil conflict currently rage through the former Yugoslavia. The
outcome is uncertain.
Both the European Community (the "EC") and Japan, among others, have made
overtures to establish trading arrangements and assist in the economic
development of the Eastern European nations. A great deal of interest also
surrounds opportunities created by the reunification of East and West Germany.
Following reunification, the Federal Republic of Germany has remained a firm and
reliable member of the EC and numerous other international alliances and
organizations. To reduce inflation caused by the unification of East and West
Germany, Germany has adopted a tight monetary policy which has led to weakened
exports and a reduced domestic demand for goods and services. However, in the
long-term, reunification could prove to be an engine for domestic and
international growth.
The conditions that have given rise to these developments are changeable,
and there is no assurance that reforms will continue or that their goals will be
achieved.
Portugal is a genuinely emerging market which has experienced rapid growth
since the mid-1980s, except for a brief period of stagnation over 1990-91.
Portugal's government remains committed to privatization of the financial system
away from one dependent upon the banking system to a more balanced structure
appropriate for the requirements of a modern economy. Inflation continues to be
about three times the EC average.
Economic reforms launched in the 1980s continue to benefit Turkey in the
1990s. Turkey's economy has grown steadily since the early 1980s, with real
growth in per capita Gross Domestic Product (the "GDP") increasing more than 6%
annually. Agriculture remains the most important economic sector, employing
approximately 55% of the labor force, and accounting for nearly 20% of GDP and
20% of exports. Inflation and interest rates remain high, and a large budget
deficit will continue to cause difficulties in Turkey's substantial
transformation to a dynamic free market economy.
Like many other Western economies, Greece suffered severely from the global
oil price hikes of the 1970s, with annual GDP growth plunging from 8% to 2% in
the 1980s, and inflation, unemployment, and budget deficits rising sharply. The
fall of the socialist government in 1989 and the inability of the conservative
opposition to obtain a clear majority have led to business uncertainty and the
continued prospects for flat economic performance. Once Greece has sorted out
its political situation, it will have to face the challenges posed by the
steadily increasing integration of the EC, including the progressive lowering of
trade and investment barriers. Tourism continues as a major industry, providing
a vital offset to a sizable commodity trade deficit.
Securities traded in certain emerging European securities markets may be
subject to risks due to the inexperience of financial intermediaries, the lack
of modern technology and the lack of a sufficient capital base to expand
business operations. Additionally, former Communist regimes of a number of
Eastern European countries had expropriated a large amount of property, the
claims of which have not been entirely settled. There can be no assurance that
the Fund's investments in Eastern Europe would not also be expropriated,
nationalized or otherwise confiscated. Finally, any change in leadership or
policies of Eastern European countries, or countries that exercise a significant
9
<PAGE>
influence over those countries, may halt the expansion of or reverse the
liberalization of foreign investment policies now occurring and adversely affect
existing investment opportunities.
Investing in Africa. Africa is a continent of roughly 50 countries with a total
population of approximately 840 million people. Literacy rates (the percentage
of people who are over 15 years of age and who can read and write) are
relatively low, ranging from 20% to 60%. The primary industries include crude
oil, natural gas, manganese ore, phosphate, bauxite, copper, iron, diamond,
cotton, coffee, cocoa, timber, tobacco, sugar, tourism and cattle.
Many of the countries are fraught with political instability. However,
there has been a trend over the past five years toward democratization. Many
countries are moving from a military style, Marxist, or single party government
to a multi-party system. Still, there remain many countries that do not have a
stable political process. Other countries have been enmeshed in civil wars and
border clashes.
Economically, the Northern Rim countries (including Morocco, Egypt and
Algeria) and Nigeria, Zimbabwe and South Africa are the wealthier countries on
the continent. The market capitalization of these countries has been growing
recently as more international companies invest in Africa and as local companies
start to list on the exchanges. However, religious and ethnic strife has been a
significant source of instability.
On the other end of the economic spectrum are countries, such as
Burkinafaso, Madagascar and Malawi, that are considered to be among the poorest
or least developed in the world. These countries are generally landlocked or
have poor natural resources. The economies of many African countries are heavily
dependent on international oil prices. Of all the African industries, oil has
been the most lucrative, accounting for 40% to 60% of many countries' GDP.
However, general decline in oil prices has had an adverse impact on many
economies.
Debt Securities. The Fund may invest in debt securities if the Adviser
determines that the capital appreciation on debt securities is likely to exceed
that of common stocks. Portfolio debt investments will be selected on the basis
of capital appreciation potential, by evaluating, among other things, potential
yield, if any, credit quality, and the fundamental outlooks for currency and
interest rate trends in different parts of the world, taking into account the
ability to hedge a degree of currency or local bond price risk. The Fund may
purchase "investment-grade" bonds, which are those rated Aaa, Aa, A or Baa by
Moody's or AAA, AA, A or BBB by S&P or, if unrated, judged to be of equivalent
quality as determined by the Adviser. Bonds rated Baa or BBB may have
speculative elements as well as investment-grade characteristics. Below
investment-grade securities, are those rated below Baa by Moody's or below BBB
by S&P and in unrated securities of equivalent quality. TheFund may invest up to
15% of its total assets in securities rated below BBB or below Baa, but may not
invest in securities rated lower than B by Moody's and S&P or in equivalent
unrated securities.
High Yield, High Risk Securities. Below investment grade securities (rated below
Baa by Moody's and below BBB by S&P and commonly referred to as "high yield" or
"junk" bonds) or unrated securities of equivalent quality in the Adviser's
judgment, carry a high degree of risk (including the possibility of default or
bankruptcy of the issuers of such securities), generally involve greater
volatility of price and risk of principal and income, and may be less liquid,
than securities in the higher rating categories and are considered speculative.
The lower the ratings of such debt securities, the greater their risks render
them like equity securities. The Fund may invest up to 15% of its net assets.
See the Appendix to this Statement of Additional Information for a more complete
description of the ratings assigned by ratings organizations and their
respective characteristics.
An economic downturn could disrupt the high-yield market and impair the
ability of issuers to repay principal and interest. Also, an increase in
interest rates would likely have a greater adverse impact on the value of such
obligations than on higher quality debt securities. During an economic downturn
or period of rising interest rates, highly leveraged issues may experience
financial stress which could adversely affect their ability to service their
principal and interest payment obligations. Prices and yields of high-yield
securities will fluctuate over time and, during periods of economic uncertainty,
volatility of high-yield securities may adversely affect a Fund's net asset
value. In addition, investments in high-yield zero coupon or pay-in-kind bonds,
rather than income-bearing high-yield securities, may be more speculative and
may be subject to greater fluctuations in value due to changes in interest
rates.
10
<PAGE>
The trading market for high-yield securities may be thin to the extent that
there is no established retail secondary market. A thin trading market may limit
the ability of a Fund to accurately value high-yield securities in its portfolio
and to dispose of those securities. Adverse publicity and investor perceptions
may decrease the values and liquidity of high-yield securities. These securities
may also involve special registration responsibilities, liabilities and costs,
and liquidity and valuation difficulties.
Credit quality in the high-yield securities market can change suddenly and
unexpectedly, and even recently issued credit ratings may not fully reflect the
actual risks posed by a particular high-yield security. For these reasons, it is
the policy of the Adviser not to rely exclusively on ratings issued by
established credit rating agencies, but to supplement such ratings with its own
independent and on-going review of credit quality. The achievement of the Fund's
investment objective by investment in such securities may be more dependent on
the Adviser's credit analysis than is the case for higher quality bonds. Should
the rating of a portfolio security be downgraded, the Adviser will determine
whether it is in the best interest of the Fund to retain or dispose of such
security.
Prices for below investment-grade securities may be affected by legislative
and regulatory developments. For example, new federal rules require savings and
loan institutions to gradually reduce their holdings of this type of security.
Also, recent legislation restricts the issuer's tax deduction for interest
payments on these securities. Such legislation may significantly depress the
prices of outstanding securities of this type. For more information regarding
tax issues related to high-yield securities (see "TAXES").
Convertible Securities. The Fund may invest in convertible securities, that is,
bonds, notes, debentures, preferred stocks and other securities which are
convertible into common stock. Investments in convertible securities can provide
an opportunity for capital appreciation and/or income through interest and
dividend payments by virtue of their conversion or exchange features. The Fund
limits its purchases of convertible securities to debt securities convertible
into common stock.
The convertible securities in which the Fund may invest are either fixed
income or zero coupon debt securities which may be converted or exchanged at a
stated or determinable exchange ratio into underlying shares of common stock.
The exchange ratio for any particular convertible security may be adjusted from
time to time due to stock splits, dividends, spin-offs, other corporate
distributions or scheduled changes in the exchange ratio. Convertible debt
securities and convertible preferred stocks, until converted, have general
characteristics similar to both debt and equity securities. Although to a lesser
extent than with debt securities generally, the market value of convertible
securities tends to decline as interest rates increase and, conversely, tends to
increase as interest rates decline. In addition, because of the conversion or
exchange feature, the market value of convertible securities typically changes
as the market value of the underlying common stocks changes, and, therefore,
also tends to follow movements in the general market for equity securities. A
unique feature of convertible securities is that as the market price of the
underlying common stock declines, convertible securities tend to trade
increasingly on a yield basis, and so may not experience market value declines
to the same extent as the underlying common stock. When the market price of the
underlying common stock increases, the prices of the convertible securities tend
to rise as a reflection of the value of the underlying common stock, although
typically not as much as the underlying common stock. While no securities
investments are without risk, investments in convertible securities generally
entail less risk than investments in common stock of the same issuer.
As debt securities, convertible securities are investments which provide
for a stream of income (or in the case of zero coupon securities, accretion of
income) with generally higher yields than common stocks. Of course, like all
debt securities, there can be no assurance of income or principal payments
because the issuers of the convertible securities may default on their
obligations. Convertible securities generally offer lower yields than
non-convertible securities of similar quality because of their conversion or
exchange features.
Convertible securities generally are subordinated to other similar but
non-convertible securities of the same issuer, although convertible bonds, as
corporate debt obligations, enjoy seniority in right of payment to all equity
securities, and convertible preferred stock is senior to common stock, of the
same issuer. However, because of the subordination feature, convertible bonds
and convertible preferred stock typically have lower ratings than similar
non-convertible securities.
Convertible securities may be issued as fixed income obligations that pay
current income or as zero coupon notes and bonds, including Liquid Yield Option
Notes ("LYONs"(TM)). Zero coupon securities pay no cash income and
11
<PAGE>
are sold at substantial discounts from their value at maturity. When held to
maturity, their entire income, which consists of accretion of discount, comes
from the difference between the issue price and their value at maturity. Zero
coupon convertible securities offer the opportunity for capital appreciation as
increases (or decreases) in market value of such securities closely follow the
movements in the market value of the underlying common stock. Zero coupon
convertible securities generally are expected to be less volatile than the
underlying common stocks as they usually are issued with shorter maturities (15
years or less) and are issued with options and/or redemption features
exercisable by the holder of the obligation entitling the holder to redeem the
obligation and receive a defined cash payment.
Illiquid Securities. The Fund may purchase securities other than in the open
market. While such purchases may often offer attractive opportunities for
investment not otherwise available on the open market, the securities so
purchased are often "restricted securities" or "not readily marketable," i.e.,
securities which cannot be sold to the public without registration under the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"), or the availability of an
exemption from registration (such as Rule 144A) or because they are subject to
other legal or contractual delays in or restrictions on resale. This investment
practice, therefore, could have the effect of increasing the level of
illiquidity of the Fund. It is the Fund's policy that illiquid securities
(including repurchase agreements of more than seven days duration, certain
restricted securities, and other securities which are not readily marketable)
may not constitute, at the time of purchase, more than 15% of the value of the
Fund's net assets. The Corporation's Board of Directors has approved guidelines
for use by the Adviser in determining whether a security is illiquid.
Generally speaking, restricted securities may be sold (i) only to qualified
institutional buyers; (ii) in a privately negotiated transaction to a limited
number of purchasers; (iii) in limited quantities after they have been held for
a specified period of time and other conditions are met pursuant to an exemption
from registration; or (iv) in a public offering for which a registration
statement is in effect under the 1933 Act. Issuers of restricted securities may
not be subject to the disclosure and other investor protection requirements that
would be applicable if their securities were publicly traded. If adverse market
conditions were to develop during the period between the Fund's decision to sell
a restricted or illiquid security and the point at which the Fund is permitted
or able to sell such security, the Fund might obtain a price less favorable than
the price that prevailed when it decided to sell. Where a registration statement
is required for the resale of restricted securities, the Fund may be required to
bear all or part of the registration expenses. The Fund may be deemed to be an
"underwriter" for purposes of the 1933 Act when selling restricted securities to
the public and, in such event, the Fund may be liable to purchasers of such
securities if the registration statement prepared by the issuer is materially
inaccurate or misleading.
Dollar Rolls. The Fund may enter into "dollar roll" transactions, which consist
of the sale by the Fund to a bank or broker/dealer (the "counterparty") of GNMA
certificates or other mortgage-backed securities together with a commitment to
purchase similar, but not identical, securities at a future date, at the same
price. The counterparty receives all principal and interest payments, including
prepayments, made on the security while the counterparty is the holder. The Fund
receives a fee from the counterparty as consideration for entering into the
commitment to purchase. Dollar rolls may be renewed over a period of several
months with a different repurchase price and a cash settlement made at each
renewal without physical delivery of securities. Moreover, the transaction may
be preceded by a firm commitment agreement pursuant to which the Fund agrees to
buy a security on a future date.
The Fund will not use such transactions for leveraging purposes and,
accordingly, will segregate cash or liquid assets in an amount sufficient to
meet its purchase obligations under the transactions. The Fund will also
maintain asset coverage of at least 300% for all outstanding firm commitments,
dollar rolls and other borrowings. Notwithstanding such safeguards, the Fund's
overall investment exposure may be increased by such transactions to the extent
that the Fund bears a risk of loss on the securities it is committed to
purchase, as well as on the segregated assets.
Dollar rolls are treated for purposes of the 1940 Act as borrowings of the
Fund because they involve the sale of a security coupled with an agreement to
repurchase. Like all borrowings, a dollar roll involves costs to the Fund. For
example, while the Fund receives a fee as consideration for agreeing to
repurchase the security, the Fund forgoes the right to receive all principal and
interest payments while the counterparty holds the security. These payments to
the counterparty may exceed the fee received by the Fund, thereby effectively
charging the Fund interest on its borrowing. Further, although the Fund can
estimate the amount of expected principal prepayment over the term of the dollar
roll, a variation in the actual amount of prepayment could increase or decrease
the cost of the Fund's borrowing.
12
<PAGE>
The entry into dollar rolls involves potential risks of loss which are
different from those of the securities underlying the transactions. For example,
if the counterparty becomes insolvent, the Fund's right to purchase from the
counterparty might be restricted. Additionally, the value of such securities may
change adversely before the Fund is able to purchase them. Similarly, the Fund
may be required to purchase securities in connection with a dollar roll at a
higher price than may otherwise be available on the open market. Since, as noted
above, the counterparty is required to deliver a similar, but not identical
security to the Fund, the security which the Fund is required to buy under the
dollar roll may be worth less than an identical security. Finally, there can be
no assurance that the Fund's use of the cash that it receives from a dollar roll
will provide a return that exceeds borrowing costs.
The Directors of the Corporation on behalf of the Fund has adopted
guidelines to ensure that those securities received are substantially identical
to those sold. To reduce the risk of default, the Fund will engage in such
transactions only with banks and broker-dealers selected pursuant to such
guidelines.
Repurchase Agreements. The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements with member
banks of the Federal Reserve System, any foreign bank or with any domestic or
foreign broker/dealer which is recognized as a reporting government securities
dealer, if the creditworthiness of the bank or broker/dealer has been determined
by the Adviser to be at least as high as that of other obligations the Fund may
purchase.
A repurchase agreement provides a means for the Fund to earn income on
funds for periods as short as overnight. It is an arrangement under which the
purchaser (i.e., the Fund) acquires a debt security ("Obligation") and the
seller agrees, at the time of sale, to repurchase the Obligation at a specified
time and price. Securities subject to a repurchase agreement are held in a
segregated account and the value of such securities is kept at least equal to
the repurchase price on a daily basis. The repurchase price may be higher than
the purchase price, the difference being income to the Fund, or the purchase and
repurchase prices may be the same, with interest at a stated rate due to the
Fund together with the repurchase price on repurchase. In either case, the
income to the Fund is unrelated to the interest rate on the Obligation itself.
Obligations will be physically held by the Fund's custodian (Brown Brothers
Harriman and Co. ) or in the Federal Reserve Book Entry system.
For purposes of the 1940 Act, a repurchase agreement is deemed to be a loan
from the Fund to the seller of the Obligation subject to the repurchase
agreement and is therefore subject to that Fund's investment restrictions
applicable to loans. It is not clear whether a court would consider the
Obligation purchased by the Fund subject to a repurchase agreement as being
owned by the Fund or as being collateral for a loan by the Fund to the seller.
In the event of the commencement of bankruptcy or insolvency proceedings with
respect to the seller of the Obligation before repurchase of the Obligation
under a repurchase agreement, the Fund may encounter delay and incur costs
before being able to sell the security. Delays may involve loss of interest or
decline in price of the Obligation. If the court characterizes the transaction
as a loan and the Fund has not perfected a security interest in the Obligation,
the Fund may be required to return the Obligation to the seller's estate and be
treated as an unsecured creditor of the seller. As an unsecured creditor, the
Fund would be at risk of losing some or the entire principal and income involved
in the transaction. As with any unsecured debt instrument purchased for the
Fund, the Adviser seeks to minimize the risk of loss through repurchase
agreements by analyzing the creditworthiness of the obligor, in this case the
seller of the Obligation. Apart from the risk of bankruptcy or insolvency
proceedings, there is also the risk that the seller may fail to repurchase the
security. However, if the market value of the Obligation subject to the
repurchase agreement becomes less than the repurchase price (including
interest), the Fund will direct the seller of the Obligation to deliver
additional securities so that the market value of all securities subject to the
repurchase agreement will equal or exceed the repurchase price. It is possible
that the Fund will be unsuccessful in seeking to enforce the seller's
contractual obligation to deliver additional securities. A repurchase agreement
with foreign banks may be available with respect to government securities of the
particular foreign jurisdiction, and such repurchase agreements involve risks
similar to repurchase agreements with U.S. entities.
TheFund may also enter into repurchase commitments with any party deemed
creditworthy by the Adviser, including foreign banks and broker/dealers, if the
transaction is entered into for investment purposes and the counterparty's
creditworthiness is at least equal to that of issuers of securities which the
Fund may purchase. Such transactions may not provide the Fund with collateral
which is marked-to-market during the term of the commitment.
13
<PAGE>
Indexed Securities. The Fund may invest in indexed securities, the value of
which is linked to currencies, interest rates, commodities, indices or other
financial indicators ("reference instruments"). Most indexed securities have
maturities of three years or less.
Indexed securities differ from other types of debt securities in which the
Fund may invest in several respects. First, the interest rate or, unlike other
debt securities, the principal amount payable at maturity of an indexed security
may vary based on changes in one or more specified reference instruments, such
as an interest rate compared with a fixed interest rate or the currency exchange
rates between two currencies (neither of which need be the currency in which the
instrument is denominated). The reference instrument need not be related to the
terms of the indexed security. For example, the principal amount of a U.S.
dollar denominated indexed security may vary based on the exchange rate of two
foreign currencies. An indexed security may be positively or negatively indexed;
that is, its value may increase or decrease if the value of the reference
instrument increases. Further, the change in the principal amount payable or the
interest rate of an indexed security may be a multiple of the percentage change
(positive or negative) in the value of the underlying reference instrument(s).
Investment in indexed securities involves certain risks. In addition to the
credit risk of the security's issuer and the normal risks of price changes in
response to changes in interest rates, the principal amount of indexed
securities may decrease as a result of changes in the value of reference
instruments. Further, in the case of certain indexed securities in which the
interest rate is linked to a reference instrument, the interest rate may be
reduced to zero, and any further declines in the value of the security may then
reduce the principal amount payable on maturity. Finally, indexed securities may
be more volatile than the reference instruments underlying indexed securities.
Zero Coupon Securities. The Fund may invest in zero coupon securities which pay
no cash income and are sold at substantial discounts from their value at
maturity. When held to maturity, their entire income, which consists of
accretion of discount, comes from the difference between the issue price and
their value at maturity. Zero coupon securities are subject to greater market
value fluctuations from changing interest rates than debt obligations of
comparable maturities which make current distributions of interest (cash). Zero
coupon securities which are convertible into common stock offer the opportunity
for capital appreciation as increases (or decreases) in market value of such
securities closely follows the movements in the market value of the underlying
common stock. Zero coupon convertible securities generally are expected to be
less volatile than the underlying common stocks, as they usually are issued with
maturities of 15 years or less and are issued with options and/or redemption
features exercisable by the holder of the obligation entitling the holder to
redeem the obligation and receive a defined cash payment.
Zero coupon securities include securities issued directly by the U.S.
Treasury, and U.S. Treasury bonds or notes and their unmatured interest coupons
and receipts for their underlying principal ("coupons") which have been
separated by their holder, typically a custodian bank or investment brokerage
firm. A holder will separate the interest coupons from the underlying principal
(the "corpus") of the U.S. Treasury security. A number of securities firms and
banks have stripped the interest coupons and receipts and then resold them in
custodial receipt programs with a number of different names, including "Treasury
Income Growth Receipts" (TIGRST) and Certificate of Accrual on Treasuries
(CATST). The underlying U.S. Treasury bonds and notes themselves are held in
book-entry form at the Federal Reserve Bank or, in the case of bearer securities
(i.e., unregistered securities which are owned ostensibly by the bearer or
holder thereof), in trust on behalf of the owners thereof. Counsel to the
underwriters of these certificates or other evidences of ownership of the U.S.
Treasury securities have stated that, for federal tax and securities purposes,
in their opinion purchasers of such certificates, such as the Fund, most likely
will be deemed the beneficial holder of the underlying U.S. Government
securities. The Fund understands that the staff of the Division of Investment
Management of the SEC no longer considers such privately stripped obligations to
be U.S. Government securities, as defined in the 1940 Act.
The U.S. Treasury has facilitated transfers of ownership of zero coupon
securities by accounting separately for the beneficial ownership of particular
interest coupon and corpus payments on Treasury securities through the Federal
Reserve book-entry record keeping system. The Federal Reserve program as
established by the Treasury Department is known as "STRIPS" or "Separate Trading
of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities." Under the STRIPS program,
the Fund will be able to have its beneficial ownership of zero coupon securities
recorded directly in the book-entry record-keeping system in lieu of having to
hold certificates or other evidences of ownership of the underlying U.S.
Treasury securities.
14
<PAGE>
When U.S. Treasury obligations have been stripped of their unmatured
interest coupons by the holder, the principal or corpus is sold at a deep
discount because the buyer receives only the right to receive a future fixed
payment on the security and does not receive any rights to periodic interest
(cash) payments. Once stripped or separated, the corpus and coupons may be sold
separately. Typically, the coupons are sold separately or grouped with other
coupons with like maturity dates and sold bundled in such form. Purchasers of
stripped obligations acquire, in effect, discount obligations that are
economically identical to the zero coupon securities that the Treasury sells
itself (see "TAXES").
Lending of Portfolio Securities. The Fund may seek to increase its income by
lending portfolio securities. Such loans may be made to registered
broker/dealers and are required to be secured continuously by collateral in
cash, U.S. Government Securities and liquid high grade debt obligations
maintained on a current basis at an amount at least equal to the market value
and accrued interest of the securities loaned. The Fund has the right to call a
loan and obtain the securities loaned on no more than five days' notice. During
the existence of a loan, the Fund will continue to receive the equivalent of any
distributions paid by the issuer on the securities loaned and will also receive
compensation based on investment of the collateral. As with other extensions of
credit there are risks of delay in recovery or even loss of rights in the
collateral should the borrower of the securities fail financially. However, the
loans will be made only to firms deemed by the Adviser to be in good standing.
The value of the securities loaned will not exceed 5% of the value of the Fund's
total assets at the time any loan is made.
Borrowing. As a matter of fundamental policy, the Fund will not borrow money,
except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or
modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time. While
the Directors do not currently intend to borrow for investment leverage
purposes, if such a strategy were implemented in the future it would increase
the Fund's volatility and the risk of loss in a declining market. Borrowing by
the Fund will involve special risk considerations. Although the principal of the
Fund's borrowings will be fixed, the Fund's assets may change in value during
the time a borrowing is outstanding, thus increasing exposure to capital risk.
Strategic Transactions and Derivatives. The Fund may, but are not required to,
utilize various other investment strategies as described below for a variety of
purposes, such as hedging various market risks, managing the effective maturity
or duration of the fixed-income securities in the Fund's portfolio or enhancing
potential gain. These strategies may be executed through the use of derivative
contracts.
In the course of pursuing these investment strategies, the Fund may
purchase and sell exchange-listed and over-the-counter put and call options on
securities, equity and fixed-income indices and other instruments, purchase and
sell futures contracts and options thereon, enter into various transactions such
as swaps, caps, floors, collars, currency forward contracts, currency futures
contracts, currency swaps or options on currencies, or currency futures and
various other currency transactions (collectively, all the above are called
"Strategic Transactions"). In addition, strategic transactions may also include
new techniques, instruments or strategies that are permitted as regulatory
changes occur. Strategic Transactions may be used without limit (subject to
certain limits imposed by the 1940 Act) to attempt to protect against possible
changes in the market value of securities held in or to be purchased for the
Fund's portfolio resulting from securities markets or currency exchange rate
fluctuations, to protect the Fund's unrealized gains in the value of its
portfolio securities, to facilitate the sale of such securities for investment
purposes, to manage the effective maturity or duration of the Fund's portfolio,
or to establish a position in the derivatives markets as a substitute for
purchasing or selling particular securities. Some Strategic Transactions may
also be used to enhance potential gain although no more than 5% of the Fund's
assets will be committed to Strategic Transactions entered into for non-hedging
purposes. Any or all of these investment techniques may be used at any time and
in any combination, and there is no particular strategy that dictates the use of
one technique rather than another, as use of any Strategic Transaction is a
function of numerous variables including market conditions. The ability of the
Fund to utilize these Strategic Transactions successfully will depend on the
Adviser's ability to predict pertinent market movements, which cannot be
assured. The Fund will comply with applicable regulatory requirements when
implementing these strategies, techniques and instruments. Strategic
Transactions will not be used to alter fundamental investment purposes and
characteristics of the Fund, and the Fund will segregate assets (or as provided
by applicable regulations, enter into certain offsetting positions) to cover its
obligations under options, futures and swaps to limit leveraging of the Fund.
Strategic Transactions, including derivative contracts, have risks
associated with them including possible default by the other party to the
transaction, illiquidity and, to the extent the Adviser's view as to certain
market movements is incorrect, the risk that the use of such Strategic
Transactions could result in losses greater than if they had
15
<PAGE>
not been used. Use of put and call options may result in losses to the Fund,
force the sale or purchase of portfolio securities at inopportune times or for
prices higher than (in the case of put options) or lower than (in the case of
call options) current market values, limit the amount of appreciation the Fund
can realize on its investments or cause the Fund to hold a security it might
otherwise sell. The use of currency transactions can result in the Fund
incurring losses as a result of a number of factors including the imposition of
exchange controls, suspension of settlements, or the inability to deliver or
receive a specified currency. The use of options and futures transactions
entails certain other risks. In particular, the variable degree of correlation
between price movements of futures contracts and price movements in the related
portfolio position of the Fund creates the possibility that losses on the
hedging instrument may be greater than gains in the value of the Fund's
position. In addition, futures and options markets may not be liquid in all
circumstances and certain over-the-counter options may have no markets. As a
result, in certain markets, the Fund might not be able to close out a
transaction without incurring substantial losses, if at all. Although the use of
futures and options transactions for hedging should tend to minimize the risk of
loss due to a decline in the value of the hedged position, at the same time they
tend to limit any potential gain which might result from an increase in value of
such position. Finally, the daily variation margin requirements for futures
contracts would create a greater ongoing potential financial risk than would
purchases of options, where the exposure is limited to the cost of the initial
premium. Losses resulting from the use of Strategic Transactions would reduce
net asset value, and possibly income, and such losses can be greater than if the
Strategic Transactions had not been utilized.
General Characteristics of Options. Put options and call options typically have
similar structural characteristics and operational mechanics regardless of the
underlying instrument on which they are purchased or sold. Thus, the following
general discussion relates to each of the particular types of options discussed
in greater detail below. In addition, many Strategic Transactions involving
options require segregation of Fund assets in special accounts, as described
below under "Use of Segregated and Other Special Accounts."
A put option gives the purchaser of the option, upon payment of a premium,
the right to sell, and the writer the obligation to buy, the underlying
security, commodity, index, currency or other instrument at the exercise price.
For instance, the Fund's purchase of a put option on a security might be
designed to protect its holdings in the underlying instrument (or, in some
cases, a similar instrument) against a substantial decline in the market value
by giving the Fund the right to sell such instrument at the option exercise
price. A call option, upon payment of a premium, gives the purchaser of the
option the right to buy, and the seller the obligation to sell, the underlying
instrument at the exercise price. The Fund's purchase of a call option on a
security, financial future, index, currency or other instrument might be
intended to protect the Fund against an increase in the price of the underlying
instrument that it intends to purchase in the future by fixing the price at
which it may purchase such instrument. An American style put or call option may
be exercised at any time during the option period while a European style put or
call option may be exercised only upon expiration or during a fixed period prior
thereto. The Fund is authorized to purchase and sell exchange listed options and
over-the-counter options ("OTC options"). Exchange listed options are issued by
a regulated intermediary such as the Options Clearing Corporation ("OCC"), which
guarantees the performance of the obligations of the parties to such options.
The discussion below uses the OCC as an example, but is also applicable to other
financial intermediaries.
With certain exceptions, OCC issued and exchange listed options generally
settle by physical delivery of the underlying security or currency, although in
the future cash settlement may become available. Index options and Eurodollar
instruments are cash settled for the net amount, if any, by which the option is
"in-the-money" (i.e., where the value of the underlying instrument exceeds, in
the case of a call option, or is less than, in the case of a put option, the
exercise price of the option) at the time the option is exercised. Frequently,
rather than taking or making delivery of the underlying instrument through the
process of exercising the option, listed options are closed by entering into
offsetting purchase or sale transactions that do not result in ownership of the
new option.
The Fund's ability to close out its position as a purchaser or seller of an
OCC or exchange listed put or call option is dependent, in part, upon the
liquidity of the option market. Among the possible reasons for the absence of a
liquid option market on an exchange are: (i) insufficient trading interest in
certain options; (ii) restrictions on transactions imposed by an exchange; (iii)
trading halts, suspensions or other restrictions imposed with respect to
particular classes or series of options or underlying securities including
reaching daily price limits; (iv) interruption of the normal operations of the
OCC or an exchange; (v) inadequacy of the facilities of an exchange or OCC to
handle current trading volume; or (vi) a decision by one or more exchanges to
discontinue the trading of options (or a particular class or series of options),
in which event the relevant market for that option on that exchange would cease
to exist,
16
<PAGE>
although outstanding options on that exchange would generally continue to be
exercisable in accordance with their terms.
The hours of trading for listed options may not coincide with the hours
during which the underlying financial instruments are traded. To the extent that
the option markets close before the markets for the underlying financial
instruments, significant price and rate movements can take place in the
underlying markets that cannot be reflected in the option markets.
OTC options are purchased from or sold to securities dealers, financial
institutions or other parties ("Counterparties") through direct bilateral
agreement with the Counterparty. In contrast to exchange listed options, which
generally have standardized terms and performance mechanics, all the terms of an
OTC option, including such terms as method of settlement, term, exercise price,
premium, guarantees and security, are set by negotiation of the parties. The
Fund will only sell OTC options (other than OTC currency options) that are
subject to a buy-back provision permitting the Fund to require the Counterparty
to sell the option back to the Fund at a formula price within seven days. The
Fund expects generally to enter into OTC options that have cash settlement
provisions, although it is not required to do so.
Unless the parties provide for it, there is no central clearing or
guaranty function in an OTC option. As a result, if the Counterparty fails to
make or take delivery of the security, currency or other instrument underlying
an OTC option it has entered into with the Fund or fails to make a cash
settlement payment due in accordance with the terms of that option, the Fund
will lose any premium it paid for the option as well as any anticipated benefit
of the transaction. Accordingly, the Adviser must assess the creditworthiness of
each such Counterparty or any guarantor or credit enhancement of the
Counterparty's credit to determine the likelihood that the terms of the OTC
option will be satisfied. The Fund will engage in OTC option transactions only
with U.S. government securities dealers recognized by the Federal Reserve Bank
of New York as "primary dealers" or broker/dealers, domestic or foreign banks or
other financial institutions which have received (or the guarantors of the
obligation of which have received) a short-term credit rating of A-1 from S&P or
P-1 from Moody's or an equivalent rating from any nationally recognized
statistical rating organization ("NRSRO") or, in the case of OTC currency
transactions, are determined to be of equivalent credit quality by the Adviser.
The staff of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") currently takes
the position that OTC options purchased by the Fund, and portfolio securities
"covering" the amount of the Fund's obligation pursuant to an OTC option sold by
it (the cost of the sell-back plus the in-the-money amount, if any) are
illiquid, and are subject to the Fund's limitation on investing no more than 15%
of its net assets in illiquid securities.
If the Fund sells a call option, the premium that it receives may serve as
a partial hedge, to the extent of the option premium, against a decrease in the
value of the underlying securities or instruments in its portfolio or will
increase the Fund's income. The sale of put options can also provide income.
The Fund may purchase and sell call options on securities including U.S.
Treasury and agency securities, mortgage-backed securities, foreign sovereign
debt, corporate debt securities, equity securities (including convertible
securities) and Eurodollar instruments that are traded on U.S. and foreign
securities exchanges and in the over-the-counter markets, and on securities
indices, currencies and futures contracts. The Fund will not purchase call
options unless the aggregate premiums paid on all options held by the Fund at
any time do not exceed 20% of its total assets. All calls sold by the Fund must
be "covered" (i.e., the Fund must own the securities or futures contract subject
to the call) or must meet the asset segregation requirements described below as
long as the call is outstanding. Even though the Fund will receive the option
premium to help protect it against loss, a call sold by the Fund exposes that
Fund during the term of the option to possible loss of opportunity to realize
appreciation in the market price of the underlying security or instrument and
may require that Fund to hold a security or instrument which it might otherwise
have sold.
The Fund may purchase and sell put options on securities including U.S.
Treasury and agency securities, mortgage-backed securities, foreign sovereign
debt, corporate debt securities, equity securities (including convertible
securities) and Eurodollar instruments (whether or not it holds the above
securities in its portfolio), and on securities indices, currencies and futures
contracts other than futures on individual corporate debt and individual equity
securities. The Fund will not purchase put options unless the aggregate premiums
paid on all options held by the Fund at any time do not exceed 20% of its total
assets. The Fund will not sell put options if, as a result, more than 50% of the
Fund's total assets would be required to be segregated to cover its potential
obligations under such put options other than those
17
<PAGE>
with respect to futures and options thereon. In selling put options, there is a
risk that the Fund may be required to buy the underlying security at a
disadvantageous price above the market price.
General Characteristics of Futures. The Fund may enter into futures contracts or
purchase or sell put and call options on such futures as a hedge against
anticipated interest rate, currency or equity market changes, and for duration
management, risk management, and return enhancement purposes. Futures are
generally bought and sold on the commodities exchanges where they are listed,
with payment of initial and variation margin as described below. The sale of a
futures contract creates a firm obligation by the Fund, as seller, to deliver to
the buyer the specific type of instrument called for in the contract at a
specific future time for a specified price (or, with respect to index futures
and Eurodollar instruments, the net cash amount). Options on futures contracts
are similar to options on securities except that an option on a futures contract
gives the purchaser the right in return for the premium paid to assume a
position in a futures contract and obligates the seller to deliver such
position.
The Fund's use of futures and options thereon will in all cases be
consistent with applicable regulatory requirements and in particular the rules
and regulations of the Commodity Futures Trading Commission and will be entered
into for bona fide hedging, risk management (including duration management) or
other portfolio and return enhancement management purposes. Typically,
maintaining a futures contract or selling an option thereon requires the Fund to
deposit with a financial intermediary as security for its obligations an amount
of cash or other specified assets (initial margin) which initially is typically
1% to 10% of the face amount of the contract (but may be higher in some
circumstances). Additional cash or assets (variation margin) may be required to
be deposited thereafter on a daily basis as the mark to market value of the
contract fluctuates. The purchase of an option on financial futures involves
payment of a premium for the option without any further obligation on the part
of the Fund. If the Fund exercises an option on a futures contract it will be
obligated to post initial margin (and potential subsequent variation margin) for
the resulting futures position just as it would for any position. Futures
contracts and options thereon are generally settled by entering into an
offsetting transaction but there can be no assurance that the position can be
offset prior to settlement at an advantageous price, nor that delivery will
occur.
The Fund will not enter into a futures contract or related option (except
for closing transactions) if, immediately thereafter, the sum of the amount of
its initial margin and premiums on open futures contracts and options thereon
would exceed 5% of that Fund's total assets (taken at current value); however,
in the case of an option that is in-the-money at the time of the purchase, the
in-the-money amount may be excluded in calculating the 5% limitation. The
segregation requirements with respect to futures contracts and options thereon
are described below.
Options on Securities Indices and Other Financial Indices. The Fund also may
purchase and sell call and put options on securities indices and other financial
indices and in so doing can achieve many of the same objectives it would achieve
through the sale or purchase of options on individual securities or other
instruments. Options on securities indices and other financial indices are
similar to options on a security or other instrument except that, rather than
settling by physical delivery of the underlying instrument, they settle by cash
settlement, i.e., an option on an index gives the holder the right to receive,
upon exercise of the option, an amount of cash if the closing level of the index
upon which the option is based exceeds, in the case of a call, or is less than,
in the case of a put, the exercise price of the option (except if, in the case
of an OTC option, physical delivery is specified). This amount of cash is equal
to the excess of the closing price of the index over the exercise price of the
option, which also may be multiplied by a formula value. The seller of the
option is obligated, in return for the premium received, to make delivery of
this amount. The gain or loss on an option on an index depends on price
movements in the instruments making up the market, market segment, industry or
other composite on which the underlying index is based, rather than price
movements in individual securities, as is the case with respect to options on
securities.
Currency Transactions. The Fund may engage in currency transactions with
Counterparties primarily in order to hedge, or manage the risk of the value of
portfolio holdings denominated in particular currencies against fluctuations in
relative value. Currency transactions include forward currency contracts,
exchange listed currency futures, exchange listed and OTC options on currencies,
and currency swaps. A forward currency contract involves a privately negotiated
obligation to purchase or sell (with delivery generally required) a specific
currency at a future date, which may be any fixed number of days from the date
of the contract agreed upon by the parties, at a price set at the time of the
contract. A currency swap is an agreement to exchange cash flows based on the
notional difference among two or more currencies and operates similarly to an
interest rate swap, which is described below. The Fund may enter into currency
transactions with Counterparties which have received (or the guarantors of the
obligations which have received) a credit rating of A-
18
<PAGE>
1 or P-1 by S&P or Moody's, respectively, or that have an equivalent rating from
a NRSRO or (except for OTC currency options) are determined to be of equivalent
credit quality by the Adviser.
The Fund's dealings in forward currency contracts and other currency
transactions such as futures, options, options on futures and swaps generally
will be limited to hedging involving either specific transactions or portfolio
positions except as described below. Transaction hedging is entering into a
currency transaction with respect to specific assets or liabilities of the Fund,
which will generally arise in connection with the purchase or sale of its
portfolio securities or the receipt of income therefrom. Position hedging is
entering into a currency transaction with respect to portfolio security
positions denominated or generally quoted in that currency.
The Fund generally will not enter into a transaction to hedge currency
exposure to an extent greater, after netting all transactions intended wholly or
partially to offset other transactions, than the aggregate market value (at the
time of entering into the transaction) of the securities held in its portfolio
that are denominated or generally quoted in or currently convertible into such
currency, other than with respect to proxy hedging or cross hedging as described
below.
The Fund may also cross-hedge currencies by entering into transactions to
purchase or sell one or more currencies that are expected to decline in value
relative to other currencies to which that Fund has or in which that Fund
expects to have portfolio exposure.
To reduce the effect of currency fluctuations on the value of existing or
anticipated holdings of portfolio securities, the Fund may also engage in proxy
hedging. Proxy hedging is often used when the currency to which the Fund's
portfolio is exposed is difficult to hedge or to hedge against the dollar. Proxy
hedging entails entering into a commitment or option to sell a currency whose
changes in value are generally considered to be correlated to a currency or
currencies in which some or all of the Fund's portfolio securities are or are
expected to be denominated, in exchange for U.S. dollars. The amount of the
commitment or option would not exceed the value of that Fund's securities
denominated in correlated currencies. For example, if the Adviser considers that
the Austrian schilling is correlated to the German deutschemark (the "D-mark"),
the Fund holds securities denominated in schillings and the Adviser believes
that the value of schillings will decline against the U.S. dollar, the Adviser
may enter into a commitment or option to sell D-marks and buy dollars. Currency
hedging involves some of the same risks and considerations as other transactions
with similar instruments. Currency transactions can result in losses to the Fund
if the currency being hedged fluctuates in value to a degree or in a direction
that is not anticipated. Further, there is the risk that the perceived
correlation between various currencies may not be present or may not be present
during the particular time that the Fund is engaging in proxy hedging. If the
Fund enters into a currency hedging transaction, that Fund will comply with the
asset segregation requirements described below.
Risks of Currency Transactions. Currency transactions are subject to risks
different from those of other portfolio transactions. Because currency control
is of great importance to the issuing governments and influences economic
planning and policy, purchases and sales of currency and related instruments can
be negatively affected by government exchange controls, blockages, and
manipulations or exchange restrictions imposed by governments. These can result
in losses to the Fund if it is unable to deliver or receive currency or funds in
settlement of obligations and could also cause hedges it has entered into to be
rendered useless, resulting in full currency exposure as well as incurring
transaction costs. Buyers and sellers of currency futures are subject to the
same risks that apply to the use of futures generally. Further, settlement of a
currency futures contract for the purchase of most currencies must occur at a
bank based in the issuing nation. Trading options on currency futures is
relatively new, and the ability to establish and close out positions on such
options is subject to the maintenance of a liquid market which may not always be
available. Currency exchange rates may fluctuate based on factors extrinsic to
that country's economy.
Combined Transactions. The Fund may enter into multiple transactions, including
multiple options transactions, multiple futures transactions, multiple currency
transactions (including forward currency contracts) and multiple interest rate
transactions and any combination of futures, options, currency and interest rate
transactions ("component" transactions), instead of a single Strategic
Transaction, as part of a single or combined strategy when, in the opinion of
the Adviser, it is in the best interests of the Fund to do so. A combined
transaction will usually contain elements of risk that are present in each of
its component transactions. Although combined transactions are normally entered
into based on the Adviser's judgment that the combined strategies will reduce
risk or otherwise more effectively achieve the desired portfolio management
goal, it is possible that the combination will instead increase such risks or
hinder achievement of the portfolio management objective.
19
<PAGE>
Swaps, Caps, Floors and Collars. Among the Strategic Transactions into which the
Fund may enter are interest rate, currency, index and other swaps and the
purchase or sale of related caps, floors and collars. The Fund expects to enter
into these transactions primarily to preserve a return or spread on a particular
investment or portion of its portfolio, to protect against currency
fluctuations, as a duration management technique or to protect against any
increase in the price of securities the Fund anticipates purchasing at a later
date. The Fund will not sell interest rate caps or floors where it does not own
securities or other instruments providing the income stream the Fund may be
obligated to pay. Interest rate swaps involve the exchange by the Fund with
another party of their respective commitments to pay or receive interest, e.g.,
an exchange of floating rate payments for fixed rate payments with respect to a
notional amount of principal. A currency swap is an agreement to exchange cash
flows on a notional amount of two or more currencies based on the relative value
differential among them and an index swap is an agreement to swap cash flows on
a notional amount based on changes in the values of the reference indices. The
purchase of a cap entitles the purchaser to receive payments on a notional
principal amount from the party selling such cap to the extent that a specified
index exceeds a predetermined interest rate or amount. The purchase of a floor
entitles the purchaser to receive payments on a notional principal amount from
the party selling such floor to the extent that a specified index falls below a
predetermined interest rate or amount. A collar is a combination of a cap and a
floor that preserves a certain return within a predetermined range of interest
rates or values.
The Fund will usually enter into swaps on a net basis, i.e., the two
payment streams are netted out in a cash settlement on the payment date or dates
specified in the instrument, with the Fund receiving or paying, as the case may
be, only the net amount of the two payments. Inasmuch as the Fund will segregate
assets (or enter into offsetting positions) to cover its obligations under
swaps, the Adviser and the Fund believe such obligations do not constitute
senior securities under the 1940 Act and, accordingly, will not treat them as
being subject to its borrowing restrictions. The Fund will not enter into any
swap, cap, floor or collar transaction unless, at the time of entering into such
transaction, the unsecured long-term debt of the Counterparty, combined with any
credit enhancements, is rated at least A by S&P or Moody's or has an equivalent
rating from a NRSRO or is determined to be of equivalent credit quality by the
Adviser. If there is a default by the Counterparty, the Fund may have
contractual remedies pursuant to the agreements related to the transaction. The
swap market has grown substantially in recent years with a large number of banks
and investment banking firms acting both as principals and as agents utilizing
standardized swap documentation. As a result, the swap market has become
relatively liquid. Caps, floors and collars are more recent innovations for
which standardized documentation has not yet been fully developed and,
accordingly, they are less liquid than swaps.
Eurodollar Instruments. The Fund may make investments in Eurodollar instruments.
Eurodollar instruments are U.S. dollar-denominated futures contracts or options
thereon which are linked to the London Interbank Offered Rate ("LIBOR"),
although foreign currency-denominated instruments are available from time to
time. Eurodollar futures contracts enable purchasers to obtain a fixed rate for
the lending of funds and sellers to obtain a fixed rate for borrowings. The Fund
might use Eurodollar futures contracts and options thereon to hedge against
changes in LIBOR, to which many interest rate swaps and fixed-income instruments
are linked.
Risks of Strategic Transactions Outside the U.S. When conducted outside the
U.S., Strategic Transactions may not be regulated as rigorously as in the U.S.,
may not involve a clearing mechanism and related guarantees, and are subject to
the risk of governmental actions affecting trading in, or the prices of, foreign
securities, currencies and other instruments. The value of such positions also
could be adversely affected by: (i) other complex foreign political, legal and
economic factors, (ii) lesser availability than in the U.S. of data on which to
make trading decisions, (iii) delays in the Fund's ability to act upon economic
events occurring in foreign markets during non-business hours in the U.S., (iv)
the imposition of different exercise and settlement terms and procedures and
margin requirements than in the U.S., and (v) lower trading volume and
liquidity.
Use of Segregated and Other Special Accounts. Many Strategic Transactions, in
addition to other requirements, require that the Fund segregates cash or liquid
assets with its custodian to the extent that obligations are not otherwise
"covered" through ownership of the underlying security, financial instrument or
currency. In general, either the full amount of any obligation by the Fund to
pay or deliver securities or assets must be covered at all times by the
securities, instruments or currency required to be delivered, or, subject to any
regulatory restrictions, an amount of cash or liquid assets at least equal to
the current amount of the obligation must be segregated with the custodian. The
segregated assets cannot be sold or transferred unless equivalent assets are
substituted in their place or it is no longer necessary to segregate them. For
example, a call option written by the Fund will require that Fund to hold the
securities subject to the
20
<PAGE>
call (or securities convertible into the needed securities without additional
consideration) or to segregate cash or liquid assets sufficient to purchase and
deliver the securities if the call is exercised. A call option sold by the Fund
on an index will require that Fund to own portfolio securities which correlate
with the index or to segregate cash or liquid assets equal to the excess of the
index value over the exercise price on a current basis. A put option written by
the Fund requires that Fund to segregate cash or liquid assets equal to the
exercise price.
Except when the Fund enters into a forward contract for the purchase or
sale of a security denominated in a particular currency, which requires no
segregation, a currency contract which obligates the Fund to buy or sell
currency will generally require that Fund to hold an amount of that currency or
liquid assets denominated in that currency equal to that Fund's obligations or
to segregate liquid assets equal to the amount of that Fund's obligation.
OTC options entered into by the Fund, including those on securities,
currency, financial instruments or indices and OCC issued and exchange listed
index options, will generally provide for cash settlement. As a result, when the
Fund sells these instruments it will only segregate an amount of cash or liquid
assets equal to its accrued net obligations, as there is no requirement for
payment or delivery of amounts in excess of the net amount. These amounts will
equal 100% of the exercise price in the case of a non cash-settled put, the same
as an OCC guaranteed listed option sold by the Fund, or the in-the-money amount
plus any sell-back formula amount in the case of a cash-settled put or call. In
addition, when the Fund sells a call option on an index at a time when the
in-the-money amount exceeds the exercise price, that Fund will segregate, until
the option expires or is closed out, cash or cash equivalents equal in value to
such excess. OCC issued and exchange listed options sold by the Fund other than
those above generally settle with physical delivery, or with an election of
either physical delivery or cash settlement and that Fund will segregate an
amount of cash or liquid assets equal to the full value of the option. OTC
options settling with physical delivery, or with an election of either physical
delivery or cash settlement will be treated the same as other options settling
with physical delivery.
In the case of a futures contract or an option thereon, the Fund must
deposit initial margin and possible daily variation margin in addition to
segregating cash or liquid assets sufficient to meet its obligation to purchase
or provide securities or currencies, or to pay the amount owed at the expiration
of an index- based futures contract. Such liquid assets may consist of cash,
cash equivalents, liquid debt or equity securities or other acceptable assets.
With respect to swaps, the Fund will accrue the net amount of the excess,
if any, of its obligations over its entitlements with respect to each swap on a
daily basis and will segregate an amount of cash or liquid securities having a
value equal to the accrued excess. Caps, floors and collars require segregation
of assets with a value equal to the Fund's net obligation, if any.
Strategic Transactions may be covered by other means when consistent with
applicable regulatory policies. The Fund may also enter into offsetting
transactions so that its combined position, coupled with any segregated cash or
liquid assets, equals its net outstanding obligation in related options and
Strategic Transactions. For example, the Fund could purchase a put option if the
strike price of that option is the same or higher than the strike price of a put
option sold by that Fund. Moreover, instead of segregating assets if the Fund
held a futures or forward contract, it could purchase a put option on the same
futures or forward contract with a strike price as high or higher than the price
of the contract held. Other Strategic Transactions may also be offset in
combinations. If the offsetting transaction terminates at the time of or after
the primary transaction no segregation is required, but if it terminates prior
to such time, cash or liquid assets equal to any remaining obligation would need
to be segregated.
Warrants. The Fund may invest in warrants up to 5% of the value of its total
assets. The holder of a warrant has the right, until the warrant expires, to
purchase a given number of shares of a particular issuer at a specified price.
Such investments can provide a greater potential for profit or loss than an
equivalent investment in the underlying security. Prices of warrants do not
necessarily move, however, in tandem with the prices of the underlying
securities and are, therefore, considered speculative investments. Warrants pay
no dividends and confer no rights other than a purchase option. Thus, if a
warrant held by the Fund were not exercised by the date of its expiration, the
Fund would lose the entire purchase price of the warrant.
Investment Restrictions
Unless specified to the contrary, the following fundamental policies may
not be changed without the approval of a majority of the outstanding voting
securities of the Fund which, under the 1940 Act and the rules thereunder and as
21
<PAGE>
used in this Statement of Additional Information, means the lesser of (1) 67% or
more of the voting securities present at such meeting, if the holders of more
than 50% of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund are present or
represented by proxy, or (2) more than 50% of the outstanding voting securities
of the Fund. The Fund is under no restriction as to the amount of portfolio
securities which may be bought or sold.
If a percentage restriction on investment or utilization of assets as set
forth under "Investment Restrictions" and "Other Investment Policies" above is
adhered to at the time an investment is made, a later change in percentage
resulting from changes in the value or the total cost of the Fund's assets will
not be considered a violation of the restriction.
The Fund has elected to be classified as a non-diversified series of an
open-end investment company. In addition, as a matter of fundamental policy, the
Fund may not:
(1) borrow money, except as permitted under the Investment Company Act of
1940, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory
authority having jurisdiction, from time to time;
(2) issue senior securities, except as permitted under the Investment
Company Act of 1940, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by
regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time;
(3) purchase physical commodities or contracts relating to physical
commodities;
(4) concentrate its investments in a particular industry, as that term is
used in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and as
interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction,
from time to time;
(5) engage in the business of underwriting securities issued by others,
except to the extent that the Fund may be deemed to be an underwriter
in connection with the disposition of portfolio securities;
(6) purchase or sell real estate, which term does not include securities
or companies which deal in real estate or interests therein, except
that the Fund reserves freedom of action to hold and to sell real
estate acquired as a result of the Fund's ownership of securities; or
(7) make loans except as permitted under the Investment Company Act of
1940, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory
authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.
The Directors of the Corporation have voluntarily adopted certain policies
and restrictions which are observed in the conduct of the Fund's affairs. These
represent intentions of the Directors based upon current circumstances. They
differ from fundamental investment policies in that they may be changed or
amended by action of the Directors without requiring prior notice to or approval
of shareholders.
As a matter of non-fundamental policy the Fund does not currently intend
to:
(1) borrow money in an amount greater than 5% of its total assets, except
(i) for temporary or emergency purposes and (ii) by engaging in
reverse repurchase agreements, dollar rolls, or other investments or
transactions described in the Fund's registration statement which may
be deemed to be borrowings;
(2) purchase securities on margin or make short sales, except (i) short
sales against the box, (ii) in connection with arbitrage transactions,
(iii) for margin deposits in connection with futures contracts,
options or other permitted investments, (iv) that transactions in
futures contracts and options shall not be deemed to constitute
selling securities short, and (v) that the Fund may obtain such
short-term credits as may be necessary for the clearance of securities
transactions;
(3) purchase options, unless the aggregate premiums paid on all such
options held by the Fund at any time do not exceed 20% of its total
assets; or sell put options, if as a result, the aggregate value of
the obligations underlying such put options would exceed 50% of its
total assets;
22
<PAGE>
(4) enter into futures contracts or purchase options thereon unless
immediately after the purchase, the value of the aggregate initial
margin with respect to such futures contracts entered into on behalf
of the Fund and the premiums paid for such options on futures
contracts do not exceed 5% of the fair market value of the Fund's
total assets; provided that in the case of an option that is
in-the-money at the time of purchase, the in-the-money amount may be
excluded in computing the 5% limit;
(5) purchase warrants if as a result, such securities, taken at the lower
of cost or market value, would represent more than 5% of the value of
the Fund's total assets (for this purpose, warrants acquired in units
or attached to securities will be deemed to have no value); and
(6) lend portfolio securities in an amount greater than 5% of its total
assets.
Restrictions with respect to repurchase agreements shall be construed to be
for repurchase agreements entered into for the investment of available cash,
consistent with the Fund's repurchase agreement procedures, not repurchase
commitments entered into for general investment purposes.
PURCHASES
Additional Information About Opening An Account
Clients having a regular investment counsel account with the Adviser or its
affiliates and members of their immediate families, officers and employees of
the Adviser or of any affiliated organization and their immediate families,
members of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. ("NASD") and
banks may, if they prefer, subscribe initially for at least $2,500 of Fund
shares through Scudder Investor Services, Inc. (the "Distributor") by letter,
fax, TWX, or telephone.
Shareholders of other Scudder funds who have submitted an account
application and have a certified Tax Identification Number, clients having a
regular investment counsel account with the Adviser or its affiliates and
members of their immediate families, officers and employees of the Adviser or of
any affiliated organization and their immediate families, members of the NASD,
and banks may open an account by wire. These investors must call
1-800-225-SCUDDER to get an account number. During the call, the investor will
be asked to indicate the Fund name, amount to be wired ($2,500 minimum), name of
bank or trust company from which the wire will be sent, the exact registration
of the new account, the taxpayer identification or Social Security number,
address and telephone number. The investor must then call the bank to arrange a
wire transfer to The Scudder Funds, State Street Bank and Trust Company, Boston,
MA 02110, ABA Number 011000028, DDA Account Number: 9903-5552. The investor must
give the Scudder fund name, account name and the new account number. Finally,
the investor must send the completed and signed application to the Fund
promptly.
The minimum initial purchase amount is less than $2,500 under certain
special plan accounts.
Minimum balances
Shareholders should maintain a share balance worth at least $2,500 ($1,000
for fiduciary accounts such as IRAs, and custodial accounts such as Uniform Gift
to Minor Act, and Uniform Trust to Minor Act accounts), which amount may be
changed by the Board of Directors. A shareholder may open an account with at
least $1,000 ($500 for fiduciary/custodial accounts), if an automatic investment
plan (AIP) of $100/month ($50/month for fiduciary/custodial accounts) is
established. Scudder group retirement plans and certain other accounts have
similar or lower minimum share balance requirements.
The Fund reserves the right, following 60 days' written notice to
applicable shareholders, to:
o assess an annual $10 per Fund charge (with the Fee to be paid to the Fund)
for any non-fiduciary/non-custodial account without an automatic investment
plan (AIP) in place and a balance of less than $2,500; and
23
<PAGE>
o redeem all shares in Fund accounts below $1,000 where a reduction in value
has occurred due to a redemption, exchange or transfer out of the account.
The Fund will mail the proceeds of the redeemed account to the shareholder.
Reductions in value that result solely from market activity will not
trigger an involuntary redemption. Shareholders with a combined household
account balance in any of the Scudder Funds of $100,000 or more, as well as
group retirement and certain other accounts will not be subject to a fee or
automatic redemption.
Fiduciary (e.g., IRA or Roth IRA) and custodial accounts (e.g., UGMA or
UTMA) with balances below $100 are subject to automatic redemption following 60
days' written notice to applicable shareholders.
Additional Information About Making Subsequent Investments by Telephone Order
Subsequent purchase orders for $10,000 or more and for an amount not
greater than four times the value of the shareholder's account may be placed by
telephone, fax, etc. by established shareholders (except by Scudder Individual
Retirement Account (IRA), Scudder Horizon Plan, Scudder Profit Sharing and Money
Purchase Pension Plans, Scudder 401(k) and Scudder 403(b) Plan holders), members
of the NASD, and banks. Orders placed in this manner may be directed to any
office of the Distributor listed in the Fund's prospectus. . Contact the
Distributor at 1-800-SCUDDER for additional information. A confirmation of the
purchase will be mailed out promptly following receipt of a request to buy.
Federal regulations require that payment be received within three business days.
If payment is not received within that time, the order is subject to
cancellation. In the event of such cancellation or cancellation at the
purchaser's request, the purchaser will be responsible for any loss incurred by
the Fund or the principal underwriter by reason of such cancellation. If the
purchaser is a shareholder, the Corporation shall have the authority, as agent
of the shareholder, to redeem shares in the account in order to reimburse the
Fund or the principal underwriter for the loss incurred. Net losses on such
transactions which are not recovered from the purchaser will be absorbed by the
principal underwriter. Any net profit on the liquidation of unpaid shares will
accrue to the Fund.
Additional Information About Making Subsequent Investments by QuickBuy
Shareholders, whose predesignated bank account of record is a member of the
Automated Clearing House Network (ACH) and who have elected to participate in
the QuickBuy program, may purchase shares of the Fund by telephone. Through this
service shareholders may purchase up to $250,000. To purchase shares by
QuickBuy, shareholders should call before the close of regular trading on the
New York Stock Exchange, Inc. (the "Exchange"), normally 4 p.m. eastern time.
Proceeds in the amount of your purchase will be transferred from your bank
checking account two or three business days following your call. For requests
received by the close of regular trading on the Exchange, shares will be
purchased at the net asset value per share calculated at the close of trading on
the day of your call. QuickBuy requests received after the close of regular
trading on the Exchange will begin their processing and be purchased at the net
asset value calculated the following business day. If you purchase shares by
QuickBuy and redeem them within seven days of the purchase, the Fund may hold
the redemption proceeds for a period of up to seven business days. If you
purchase shares and there are insufficient funds in your bank account the
purchase will be canceled and you will be subject to any losses or fees incurred
in the transaction. QuickBuy transactions are not available for most retirement
plan accounts. However, QuickBuy transactions are available for Scudder IRA
accounts.
In order to request purchases by QuickBuy, shareholders must have completed
and returned to the Transfer Agent the application, including the designation of
a bank account from which the purchase payment will be debited. New investors
wishing to establish QuickBuy may so indicate on the application. Existing
shareholders who wish to add QuickBuy to their account may do so by completing a
QuickBuy Enrollment Form. After sending in an enrollment form, shareholders
should allow 15 days for this service to be available.
The Fund employs procedures, including recording telephone calls, testing a
caller's identity, and sending written confirmation of telephone transactions,
designed to give reasonable assurance that instructions communicated by
telephone are genuine, and to discourage fraud. To the extent that the Fund does
not follow such procedures, it may be liable for losses due to unauthorized or
fraudulent telephone instructions. The Fund will not be liable for acting upon
instructions communicated by telephone that it reasonably believes to be
genuine.
24
<PAGE>
Checks
A certified check is not necessary, but checks are only accepted subject to
collection at full face value in U.S. funds and must be drawn on, or payable
through, a U.S. bank.
If shares of the Fund are purchased by a check which proves to be
uncollectible, the Corporation reserves the right to cancel the purchase
immediately and the purchaser will be responsible for any loss incurred by the
Trust or the principal underwriter by reason of such cancellation. If the
purchaser is a shareholder, the Corporation will have the authority, as agent of
the shareholder, to redeem shares in the account in order to reimburse the Fund
or the principal underwriter for the loss incurred. Investors whose orders have
been canceled may be prohibited from, or restricted in, placing future orders in
any of the Scudder funds.
Wire Transfer of Federal Funds
To obtain the net asset value determined as of the close of regular trading
on the Exchange on a selected day, your bank must forward federal funds by wire
transfer and provide the required account information so as to be available to
the Fund prior to the close of regular trading on the Exchange (normally 4 p.m.
eastern time).
The bank sending an investor's federal funds by bank wire may charge for
the service. Presently, the Distributor pays a fee for receipt by State Street
Bank and Trust Company (the "Custodian") of "wired funds," but the right to
charge investors for this service is reserved.
Boston banks are closed on certain holidays although the Exchange may be
open. These holidays include Columbus Day (the 2nd Monday in October) and
Veterans Day (November 11). Investors are not able to purchase shares by wiring
federal funds on such holidays because the Custodian is not open to receive such
federal funds on behalf of the Fund.
Share Price
Purchases will be filled without sales charge at the net asset value next
computed after receipt of the application in good order. Net asset value
normally will be computed as of the close of regular trading on each day during
which the Exchange is open for trading. Orders received after the close of
regular trading on the Exchange will receive the next business day's net asset
value. If the order has been placed by a member of the NASD, other than the
Distributor, it is the responsibility of that member broker, rather than the
Fund, to forward the purchase order to Scudder Service Corporation (the
"Transfer Agent") by the close of regular trading on the Exchange.
Share Certificates
Due to the desire of the Corporation's management to afford ease of
redemption, certificates will not be issued to indicate ownership in the Fund.
Share certificates now in a shareholder's possession may be sent to the Transfer
Agent for cancellation and credit to such shareholder's account. Shareholders
who prefer may hold the certificates in their possession until they wish to
exchange or redeem such shares.
Other Information
The Fund has authorized certain members of the NASD other than the
Distributor to accept purchase and redemption orders for the Fund's shares.
Those brokers may also designate other parties to accept purchase and redemption
orders on the Fund's behalf. Orders for purchase or redemption will be deemed to
have been received by the Fund when such brokers or their authorized designees
accept the orders. Subject to the terms of the contract between the Fund and the
broker, ordinarily orders will be priced at the Fund's net asset value next
computed after acceptance by such brokers or their authorized designees.
Further, if purchases or redemptions of the Fund's shares are arranged and
settlement is made at an investor's election through any other authorized NASD
member, that member may, at its discretion, charge a fee for that service. The
Board of Directors and the Distributor, also the Fund's principal underwriter,
each has the right to limit the amount of purchases by and to refuse to sell to,
any person. The Directors and the Distributor may suspend or terminate the
offering of shares of the Fund at any time for any reason.
25
<PAGE>
The Board of Directors and the Distributor each has the right to limit, for
any reason, the amount of purchases by, and to refuse to, sell to any person,
and each may suspend or terminate the offering of shares of the Fund at any time
for any reasons.
The Tax Identification Number section of the application must be completed
when opening an account. Applications and purchase orders without a correct
certified tax identification number and certain other certified information
(e.g. from exempt organizations, certification of exempt status) will be
returned to the investor. The Fund reserves the right, following 30 days'
notice, to redeem all shares in accounts without a correct certified Social
Security or tax identification number. A shareholder may avoid involuntary
redemption by providing the Fund with a tax identification number during the
30-day notice period.
The Corporation may issue shares at net asset value in connection with any
merger or consolidation with, or acquisition of the assets of, any investment
company or personal holding company, subject to the requirements of the 1940
Act.
EXCHANGES AND REDEMPTIONS
Exchanges
Exchanges are comprised of a redemption from one Scudder fund and a
purchase into another Scudder fund. The purchase side of the exchange either may
be an additional investment into an existing account or may involve opening a
new account in the other fund. When an exchange involves a new account, the new
account will be established with the same registration, tax identification
number, address, telephone redemption option, "Scudder Automated Information
Line" (SAIL) transaction authorization and dividend option as the existing
account. Other features will not carry over automatically to the new account.
Exchanges to a new fund account must be for a minimum of $2,500. When an
exchange represents an additional investment into an existing account, the
account receiving the exchange proceeds must have identical registration, tax
identification number, address, and account options/features as the account of
origin. Exchanges into an existing account must be for $100 or more.
If the account receiving the exchange proceeds is to be different in any
respect, the exchange request must be in writing and must contain an original
signature guarantee as described under "Transaction information - Signature
guarantees" in the Fund's prospectus.
Exchange orders received before the close of regular trading on the
Exchange on any business day will ordinarily be executed at respective net asset
values determined on that day. Exchange orders received after the close of
trading will be executed on the following business day.
Investors may also request, at no extra charge, to have exchanges
automatically executed on a predetermined schedule from one Scudder fund to an
existing account in another Scudder fund, at current net asset value, through
Scudder's Automatic Exchange Program. Exchanges must be for a minimum of $50.
Shareholders may add this free feature over the telephone or in writing.
Automatic Exchanges will continue until the shareholder requests by telephone or
in writing to have the feature removed, or until the originating account is
depleted. The Corporation and the Transfer Agent each reserves the right to
suspend or terminate the privilege of the Automatic Exchange Program at any
time.
There is no charge to the shareholder for any exchange described above. An
exchange into another Scudder fund is a redemption of shares, and therefore may
result in tax consequences (gain or loss) to the shareholder, and the proceeds
of such an exchange may be subject to backup withholding (see "TAXES").
Investors currently receive the exchange privilege, including exchange by
telephone, automatically without having to elect it. The Fund employs
procedures, including recording telephone calls, testing a caller's identity,
and sending written confirmation of telephone transactions, designed to give
reasonable assurance that instructions communicated by telephone are genuine,
and to discourage fraud. To the extent that the Fund does not follow such
procedures, it may be liable for losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent
telephone instructions. The Fund will not be liable for acting upon instructions
communicated by telephone that they reasonably believe to be genuine. The Fund
and
26
<PAGE>
the Transfer Agent each reserves the right to suspend or terminate the privilege
of exchanging by telephone or fax at any time.
The Scudder funds into which investors may make an exchange are listed
under "THE SCUDDER FAMILY OF FUNDS" herein. Before making an exchange,
shareholders should obtain from the Distributor a prospectus of the Scudder fund
into which the exchange is being contemplated. The exchange privilege may not be
available for certain Scudder funds or classes thereof. For more information,
please call 1-800-225-SCUDDER.
Scudder retirement plans may have different exchange requirements. Please
refer to appropriate plan literature.
Redemption by Telephone
Shareholders currently receive the right, automatically without having to
elect it, to redeem by telephone up to $50,000 and have the proceeds mailed to
their address of record. Shareholders may request to have the proceeds mailed or
wired to their predesignated bank account. In order to request redemptions by
telephone, shareholders must have completed and returned to the Transfer Agent
an application, including the designation of a bank account to which the
redemption proceeds are to be sent.
(a) NEW INVESTORS wishing to establish the telephone redemption privilege
must complete the appropriate section on the application.
(b) EXISTING SHAREHOLDERS (except those who are Scudder IRA, Scudder
pension and profit-sharing, Scudder 401(k) and Scudder 403(b)
Planholders) who wish to establish telephone redemption to a
predesignated bank account or who want to change the bank account
previously designated to receive redemption proceeds should either
return a Telephone Redemption Option Form (available upon request), or
send a letter identifying the account and specifying the exact
information to be changed. The letter must be signed exactly as the
shareholder's name(s) appears on the account. An original signature
and an original signature guarantee are required for each person in
whose name the account is registered.
If a request for a redemption to a shareholder's bank account is made by
telephone or fax, payment will be made by Federal Reserve bank wire to the bank
account designated on the application, unless a request is made that the
redemption be mailed to the designated bank account. There will be a $5 charge
for all wire redemptions.
Note: Investors designating a savings bank to receive their telephone
redemption proceeds are advised that if the savings bank is not a
participant in the Federal Reserve System, redemption proceeds must be
wired through a commercial bank which is a correspondent of the
savings bank. As this may delay receipt by the shareholder's account,
it is suggested that investors wishing to use a savings bank discuss
wire procedures with their bank and submit any special wire transfer
information with the telephone redemption authorization. If
appropriate wire information is not supplied, redemption proceeds will
be mailed to the designated bank.
The Fund employs procedures, including recording telephone calls, testing a
caller's identity, and sending written confirmation of telephone transactions,
designed to give reasonable assurance that instructions communicated by
telephone are genuine, and to discourage fraud. To the extent that the Fund does
not follow such procedures, it may be liable for losses due to unauthorized or
fraudulent telephone instructions. The Fund will not be liable for acting upon
instructions communicated by telephone that it reasonably believes to be
genuine.
Redemption by QuickSell
Shareholders, whose predesignated bank account of record is a member of the
Automated Clearing House Network (ACH) and who have elected to participate in
the QuickSell program may sell shares of the Fund by telephone. Redemptions must
be for at least $250. Proceeds in the amount of your redemption will be
transferred to your bank checking account two or three business days following
your call. For requests received by the close of regular trading on the
Exchange, normally 4:00 p.m. eastern time, shares will be redeemed at the net
asset value per share calculated at the close of trading on the day of your
call. QuickSell requests received after the close of regular trading on the
Exchange
27
<PAGE>
will begin their processing and be redeemed at the net asset value calculated
the following business day. QuickSell transactions are not available for Scudder
IRA accounts and most other retirement plan accounts.
In order to request redemptions by QuickSell, shareholders must have
completed and returned to the Transfer Agent the application, including the
designation of a bank account to which redemption proceeds will be credited. New
investors wishing to establish QuickSell may so indicate on the application.
Existing shareholders who wish to add QuickSell to their account may do so by
completing a QuickSell Enrollment Form. After sending in an enrollment form,
shareholders should allow for 15 days for this service to be available.
The Fund employs procedures, including recording telephone calls, testing a
caller's identity, and sending written confirmation of telephone transactions,
designed to give reasonable assurance that instructions communicated by
telephone are genuine, and to discourage fraud. To the extent that the Fund does
not follow such procedures, it may be liable for losses due to unauthorized or
fraudulent telephone instructions. The Fund will not be liable for acting upon
instructions communicated by telephone that it reasonably believes to be
genuine.
Redemption by Mail or Fax
Any existing share certificates representing shares being redeemed must
accompany a request for redemption and be duly endorsed or accompanied by a
proper stock assignment form with signature(s) guaranteed.
Any existing share certificates representing shares being redeemed must
accompany a request for redemption and be duly endorsed or accompanied by a
proper stock assignment form with a signature guarantee as explained in the
Fund's prospectus.
In order to ensure proper authorization before redeeming shares, the
Transfer Agent may request additional documents such as, but not restricted to,
stock powers, trust instruments, certificates of death, appointments as
executor, certificates of corporate authority and waivers of tax required in
some states when settling estates.
It is suggested that shareholders holding share certificates or shares
registered in other than individual names contact the Transfer Agent prior to
redemptions to ensure that all necessary documents accompany the request. When
shares are held in the name of a corporation, trust, fiduciary agent, attorney
or partnership, the Transfer Agent requires, in addition to the stock power,
certified evidence of authority to sign. These procedures are for the protection
of shareholders and should be followed to ensure prompt payment. Redemption
requests must not be conditional as to date or price of the redemption. Proceeds
of a redemption will be sent within seven business days after receipt by the
Transfer Agent of a request for redemption that complies with the above
requirements. Delays of more than seven days of payment for shares tendered for
redemption may result but only until the purchase check has cleared.
The requirements for IRA redemptions are different from those for regular
accounts. For more information, please call 1-800-225- SCUDDER.
Redemption-in-Kind
The Corporation reserves the right, if conditions exist which make cash
payments undesirable, to honor any request for redemption or repurchase order by
making payment in whole or in part in readily marketable securities chosen by
the Corporation and valued as they are for purposes of computing the Fund's net
asset value (a redemption-in-kind). If payment is made in securities, a
shareholder may incur transaction expenses in converting these securities into
cash. The Corporation has elected, however, to be governed by Rule 18f-1 under
the 1940 Act as a result of which the Fund is obligated to redeem shares, with
respect to any one shareholder during any 90-day period, solely in cash up to
the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the net asset value of the relevant Fund at the
beginning of the period.
Other Information
Clients, officers or employees of the Adviser or of an affiliated
organization, and members of such clients', officers' or employees' immediate
families, banks and members of the NASD may direct repurchase requests to the
Fund through Scudder Investor Services, Inc. at Two International Place, Boston,
Massachusetts 02110-4103 by letter, fax, TWX, or telephone. A two-part
confirmation will be mailed out promptly after receipt of the repurchase
request. A
28
<PAGE>
written request in good order with a proper original signature guarantee, as
described in the Fund's prospectus under "Transaction information - Signature
guarantees," should be sent with a copy of the invoice to Scudder Funds, c/o
Scudder Confirmed Processing, Two International Place, Boston, Massachusetts
02110-4103. Failure to deliver shares or required documents (see above) by the
settlement date may result in cancellation of the trade and the shareholder will
be responsible for any loss incurred by the Fund or the principal underwriter by
reason of such cancellation. Net losses on such transactions which are not
recovered from the shareholder will be absorbed by the principal underwriter.
Any net gains so resulting will accrue to the Fund. For this group, repurchases
will be carried out at the net asset value next computed after such repurchase
requests have been received. The arrangements described in this paragraph for
repurchasing shares are discretionary and may be discontinued at any time.
If a shareholder redeems all shares in the account after the record date of
a dividend, the shareholder will receive in addition to the net asset value
thereof, all declared but unpaid dividends thereon. The value of shares redeemed
or repurchased may be more or less than the shareholder's cost depending on the
net asset value at the time of redemption or repurchase. The Corporation does
not impose a redemption or repurchase charge. Redemption of shares, including an
exchange into another Scudder fund, may result in tax consequences (gain or
loss) to the shareholder and the proceeds of such redemptions may be subject to
backup withholding.
(See "TAXES.")
Shareholders who wish to redeem shares from Special Plan Accounts should
contact the employer, trustee or custodian of the Plan for the requirements.
The determination of net asset value may be suspended at times and a
shareholder's right to redeem shares and to receive payment may be suspended at
times during which (a) the Exchange is closed, other than customary weekend and
holiday closings, (b) trading on the Exchange is restricted for any reason, (c)
an emergency exists as a result of which disposal by the Fund of securities
owned by it is not reasonably practicable or it is not reasonably practicable
for the Fund fairly to determine the value of its net assets, or (d) the SEC may
by order permit such a suspension for the protection of the Corporation's
shareholders; provided that applicable rules and regulations of the SEC (or any
succeeding governmental authority) shall govern as to whether the conditions
prescribed in (b) or (c) exist.
FEATURES AND SERVICES OFFERED BY THE FUND
The No-Load Concept(TM)
Investors are encouraged to be aware of the full ramifications of mutual
fund fee structures, and of how Scudder distinguishes its Scudder Family of
Funds from the vast majority of mutual funds available today. The primary
distinction is between load and no-load funds.
Load funds generally are defined as mutual funds that charge a fee for the
sale and distribution of fund shares. There are three types of loads: front-end
loads, back-end loads, and asset-based 12b-1 fees. 12b-1 fees are
distribution-related fees charged against fund assets and are distinct from
service fees, which are charged for personal services and/or maintenance of
shareholder accounts. Asset-based sales charges and service fees are typically
paid pursuant to distribution plans adopted under 12b-1 under the 1940 Act.
A front-end load is a sales charge, which can be as high as 8.50% of the
amount invested. A back-end load is a contingent deferred sales charge, which
can be as high as 8.50% of either the amount invested or redeemed. The maximum
front-end or back-end load varies, and depends upon whether or not a fund also
charges a 12b-1 fee and/or a service fee or offers investors various sales-
related services such as dividend reinvestment. The maximum charge for a 12b-1
fee is 0.75% of a fund's average annual net assets, and the maximum charge for a
service fee is 0.25% of a fund's average annual net assets.
A no-load fund does not charge a front-end or back-end load, but can charge
a small 12b-1 fee and/or service fee against fund assets. Under the National
Association of Securities Dealers Conduct Rules, a mutual fund can call itself a
"no-load" fund only if the 12b-1 fee and/or service fee does not exceed 0.25% of
a fund's average annual net assets.
29
<PAGE>
Because funds and classes in the Scudder Family of Funds do not pay any
asset-based sales charges or service fees, Scudder uses the phrase no-load to
distinguish Scudder funds and classes from other no-load funds. Scudder
pioneered the no-load concept when it created the nation's first no-load fund in
1928, and later developed the nation's first family of no-load mutual funds.
Internet access
World Wide Web Site - The address of the Scudder Funds site is
http://www.scudder.com. The site offers guidance on global investing and
developing strategies to help meet financial goals and provides access to the
Scudder investor relations department via e-mail. The site also enables users to
access or view fund prospectuses and profiles with links between summary
information in Profiles and details in the Prospectus. Users can fill out new
account forms on-line, order free software, and request literature on funds.
Account Access - Scudder is among the first mutual fund families to allow
shareholders to manage their fund accounts through the World Wide Web. Scudder
Fund shareholders can view a snapshot of current holdings, review account
activity and move assets between Scudder Fund accounts.
Scudder's personal portfolio capabilities - known as SEAS (Scudder
Electronic Account Services) - are accessible only by current Scudder Fund
shareholders who have set up a Personal Page on Scudder's Web site. Using a
secure Web browser, shareholders sign on to their account with their Social
Security number and their SAIL password. As an additional security measure,
users can change their current password or disable access to their portfolio
through the World Wide Web.
An Account Activity option reveals a financial history of transactions for
an account, with trade dates, type and amount of transaction, share price and
number of shares traded. For users who wish to trade shares between Scudder
Funds, the Fund Exchange option provides a step-by-step procedure to exchange
shares among existing fund accounts or to new Scudder Fund accounts.
Dividends and Capital Gains Distribution Options
Investors have freedom to choose whether to receive cash or to reinvest any
dividends from net investment income or distributions from realized capital
gains in additional shares of the Fund. A change of instructions for the method
of payment must be received by the Transfer Agent at least five days prior to a
dividend record date. Shareholders also may change their dividend option either
by calling 1-800-SCUDDER or by sending written instructions to the Transfer
Agent. Please include your account number with your written request. See "How to
Buy Shares" in the Fund's prospectus for the address.
Reinvestment is usually made at the closing net asset value determined on
the business day following the record date. Investors may leave standing
instructions with the Transfer Agent designating their option for either
reinvestment or cash distribution of any income dividends or capital gains
distributions. If no election is made, dividends and distributions will be
invested in additional shares of the Fund.
Investors may also have dividends and distributions automatically deposited
in their predesignated bank account through Scudder's DistributionsDirect
Program. Shareholders who elect to participate in the DistributionsDirect
Program, and whose predesignated checking account of record is with a member
bank of the Automated Clearing House Network (ACH) can have income and capital
gain distributions automatically deposited to their personal bank account
usually within three business days after the Fund pays its distribution. A
DistributionsDirect request form can be obtained by calling 1-800-SCUDDER.
Confirmation statements will be mailed to shareholders as notification that
distributions have been deposited.
Investors choosing to participate in Scudder's Automatic Withdrawal Plan
must reinvest any dividends or capital gains. For most retirement plan accounts,
the reinvestment of dividends and capital gains is also required.
30
<PAGE>
Reports to Shareholders
The Trust issues shareholders unaudited semiannual financial statements and
annual financial statements audited by independent accountants, including a list
of investments held and statements of assets and liabilities, operations,
changes in net assets and financial highlights. The Trust presently intends to
distribute to shareholders informal quarterly reports during the intervening
quarters, containing a statement of the investments of the Fund.
Transaction Summaries
Annual summaries of all transactions in the Fund account are available to
shareholders. The summaries may be obtained by calling 1-800-SCUDDER.
THE SCUDDER FAMILY OF FUNDS
The Scudder Family of Funds is America's first family of mutual funds and
the nation's oldest family of no-load mutual funds; a list of Scudder funds
follows.
MONEY MARKET
Scudder U.S. Treasury Money Fund
Scudder Cash Investment Trust
Scudder Money Market Series+
Scudder Government Money Market Series+
TAX FREE MONEY MARKET
Scudder Tax Free Money Fund
Scudder Tax Free Money Market Series+
Scudder California Tax Free Money Fund*
Scudder New York Tax Free Money Fund*
TAX FREE
Scudder Limited Term Tax Free Fund
Scudder Medium Term Tax Free Fund
Scudder Managed Municipal Bonds
Scudder High Yield Tax Free Fund
Scudder California Tax Free Fund*
Scudder Massachusetts Limited Term Tax Free Fund*
Scudder Massachusetts Tax Free Fund*
Scudder New York Tax Free Fund*
Scudder Ohio Tax Free Fund*
U.S. INCOME
Scudder Short Term Bond Fund
Scudder GNMA Fund
Scudder Income Fund
Scudder Corporate Bond Fund
Scudder High Yield Bond Fund
GLOBAL INCOME
Scudder Global Bond Fund
- -------------------------------
+ The institutional class of shares is not part of the Scudder Family of
Funds.
* These funds are not available for sale in all states. For information,
contact Scudder Investor Services, Inc.
31
<PAGE>
Scudder International Bond Fund
Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund
ASSET ALLOCATION
Scudder Pathway Series: Conservative Portfolio
Scudder Pathway Series: Balanced Portfolio
Scudder Pathway Series: Growth Portfolio
U.S. GROWTH AND INCOME
Scudder Balanced Fund
Scudder Dividend & Growth Fund
Scudder Growth and Income Fund
Scudder Select 500 Fund
Scudder 500 Index Fund
Scudder Real Estate Investment Fund
U.S. GROWTH
Value
Scudder Large Company Value Fund
Scudder Value Fund**
Scudder Small Company Value Fund
Scudder Micro Cap Fund
Growth
Scudder Classic Growth Fund**
Scudder Large Company Growth Fund
Scudder Select 1000 Growth Fund
Scudder Development Fund
Scudder 21st Century Growth Fund
GLOBAL EQUITY
Worldwide
Scudder Global Fund
Scudder International Value Fund
Scudder International Growth and Income Fund
Scudder International Fund***
Scudder International Growth Fund
Scudder Global Discovery Fund**
Scudder Emerging Markets Growth Fund
Scudder Gold Fund
Regional
Scudder Greater Europe Growth Fund
Scudder Pacific Opportunities Fund
Scudder Latin America Fund
The Japan Fund, Inc.
- -------------------------------
** Only the Scudder Shares are part of the Scudder Family of Funds.
*** Only the International Shares are part of the Scudder Family of Funds.
32
<PAGE>
INDUSTRY SECTOR FUNDS
Choice Series
Scudder Financial Services Fund
Scudder Health Care Fund
Scudder Technology Fund
SCUDDER PREFERRED SERIES
Scudder Tax Managed Growth Fund
Scudder Tax Managed Small Company Fund
The net asset values of most Scudder funds can be found daily in the
"Mutual Funds" section of The Wall Street Journal under "Scudder Funds," and in
other leading newspapers throughout the country. Investors will notice the net
asset value and offering price are the same, reflecting the fact that no sales
commission or "load" is charged on the sale of shares of the Scudder funds. The
latest seven-day yields for the money-market funds can be found every Monday and
Thursday in the "Money-Market Funds" section of The Wall Street Journal. This
information also may be obtained by calling the Scudder Automated Information
Line (SAIL) at 1-800-343- 2890.
Certain Scudder funds or classes thereof may not be available for purchase
or exchange. For more information, please call 1-800- 225-SCUDDER.
SPECIAL PLAN ACCOUNTS
Detailed information on any Scudder investment plan, including the
applicable charges, minimum investment requirements and disclosures made
pursuant to Internal Revenue Service (the "IRS") requirements, may be obtained
by contacting Scudder Investor Services, Inc., Two International Place, Boston,
Massachusetts 02110-4103 or by calling toll free, 1-800-225-2470. The
discussions of the plans below describe only certain aspects of the federal
income tax treatment of the plan. The state tax treatment may be different and
may vary from state to state. It is advisable for an investor considering the
funding of the investment plans described below to consult with an attorney or
other investment or tax adviser with respect to the suitability requirements and
tax aspects thereof.
Shares of the Fund may also be a permitted investment under profit sharing
and pension plans and IRAs other than those offered by the Fund's distributor
depending on the provisions of the relevant plan or IRA.
None of the plans assures a profit or guarantees protection against
depreciation, especially in declining markets.
Scudder Retirement Plans: Profit-Sharing and Money Purchase
Pension Plans for Corporations and Self-Employed Individuals
Shares of the Fund may be purchased as the investment medium under a plan
in the form of a Scudder Profit-Sharing Plan (including a version of the Plan
which includes a cash-or-deferred feature) or a Scudder Money Purchase Pension
Plan (jointly referred to as the Scudder Retirement Plans) adopted by a
corporation, a self-employed individual or a group of self-employed individuals
(including sole proprietorships and partnerships), or other qualifying
organization. Each of these forms was approved by the IRS as a prototype. The
IRS's approval of an employer's plan under Section 401(a) of the Internal
Revenue Code will be greatly facilitated if it is in such approved form. Under
certain circumstances, the IRS will assume that a plan, adopted in this form,
after special notice to any employees, meets the requirements of Section 401(a)
of the Internal Revenue Code as to form.
Scudder 401(k): Cash or Deferred Profit-Sharing Plan
for Corporations and Self-Employed Individuals
Shares of the Fund may be purchased as the investment medium under a plan
in the form of a Scudder 401(k) Plan adopted by a corporation, a self-employed
individual or a group of self-employed individuals (including sole proprietors
and partnerships), or other qualifying organization. This plan has been approved
as a prototype by the IRS.
33
<PAGE>
Scudder IRA: Individual Retirement Account
Shares of the Fund may be purchased as the underlying investment for an
Individual Retirement Account which meets the requirements of Section 408(a) of
the Internal Revenue Code.
A single individual who is not an active participant in an
employer-maintained retirement plan, such as a pension or profit sharing plan, a
governmental plan, a simplified employee pension plan, a simple retirement
account, or a tax-deferred annuity program (a "qualified plan"), and a married
individual who is not an active participant in a qualified plan and whose spouse
is also not an active participant in a qualified plan, are eligible to make tax
deductible contributions of up to $2,000 to an IRA prior to the year such
individual attains age 70 1/2. In addition, certain individuals who are active
participants in qualified plans (or who have spouses who are active
participants) are also eligible to make tax-deductible contributions to an IRA;
the annual amount, if any, of the contribution which such an individual will be
eligible to deduct will be determined by the amount of his, her, or their
adjusted gross income for the year. If an individual is an active participant,
the deductibility of his or her IRA contributions in 2000 is phased out if the
individual has gross income between $32,000 and $42,000 and is single, if the
individual has gross income between $52,000 and $62,000 and is married filing
jointly, or if the individual has gross income between $0 and $10,000 and is
married filing separately; the phase-out ranges for individuals who are single
or married filing jointly are subject to annual adjustment through 2005 and
2007, respectively. If an individual is married filing jointly and the
individual's spouse is an active participant but the individual is not, the
deductibility of his or her IRA contributions is phased out if their combined
gross income is between $150,000 and $160,000. Whenever the adjusted gross
income limitation prohibits an individual from contributing what would otherwise
be the maximum tax-deductible contribution he or she could make, the individual
will be eligible to contribute the difference to an IRA in the form of
nondeductible contributions.
An eligible individual may contribute as much as $2,000 of qualified income
(earned income or, under certain circumstances, alimony) to an IRA each year (up
to $2,000 per individual for married couples, even if only one spouse has earned
income). All income and capital gains derived from IRA investments are
reinvested and compound tax-deferred until distributed. Such tax-deferred
compounding can lead to substantial retirement savings.
Scudder Roth IRA: Individual Retirement Account
Shares of the Fund may be purchased as the underlying investment for a Roth
Individual Retirement Account which meets the requirements of Section 408A of
the Internal Revenue Code.
A single individual earning below $95,000 can contribute up to $2,000 per
year to a Roth IRA. The maximum contribution amount diminishes and gradually
falls to zero for single filers with adjusted gross incomes ranging from $95,000
to $110,000. Married couples earning less than $150,000 combined, and filing
jointly, can contribute a full $4,000 per year ($2,000 per IRA). The maximum
contribution amount for married couples filing jointly phases out from $150,000
to $160,000.
An eligible individual can contribute money to a traditional IRA and a Roth
IRA as long as the total contribution to all IRAs does not exceed $2,000. No tax
deduction is allowed under Section 219 of the Internal Revenue Code for
contributions to a Roth IRA. Contributions to a Roth IRA may be made even after
the individual for whom the account is maintained has attained age 70 1/2.
All income and capital gains derived from Roth IRA investments are
reinvested and compounded tax-free. Such tax-free compounding can lead to
substantial retirement savings. No distributions are required to be taken prior
to the death of the original account holder. If a Roth IRA has been established
for a minimum of five years, distributions can be taken tax-free after reaching
age 59 1/2, for a first-time home purchase ($10,000 maximum, one-time use) or
upon death or disability. All other distributions of earnings from a Roth IRA
are taxable and subject to a 10% tax penalty unless an exception applies.
Exceptions to the 10% penalty include: disability, certain medical expenses, the
purchase of health insurance for an unemployed individual and qualified higher
education expenses.
An individual with an income of $100,000 or less (who is not married filing
separately) can roll his or her existing IRA into a Roth IRA. However, the
individual must pay taxes on the taxable amount in his or her traditional
34
<PAGE>
IRA. Individuals who complete the rollover in 1998 will be allowed to spread the
tax payments over a four-year period. After 1998, all taxes on such a rollover
will have to be paid in the tax year in which the rollover is made.
Scudder 403(b) Plan
Shares of the Fund may also be purchased as the underlying investment for
tax sheltered annuity plans under the provisions of Section 403(b)(7) of the
Internal Revenue Code. In general, employees of tax-exempt organizations
described in Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code (such as hospitals,
churches, religious, scientific, or literary organizations and educational
institutions) or a public school system are eligible to participate in a 403(b)
plan.
Automatic Withdrawal Plan
Non-retirement plan shareholders may establish an Automatic Withdrawal Plan
to receive monthly, quarterly or periodic redemptions from his or her account
for any designated amount of $50 or more. Shareholders may designate which day
they want the automatic withdrawal to be processed. The check amounts may be
based on the redemption of a fixed dollar amount, fixed share amount, percent of
account value or declining balance. The Plan provides for income dividends and
capital gains distributions, if any, to be reinvested in additional shares.
Shares are then liquidated as necessary to provide for withdrawal payments.
Since the withdrawals are in amounts selected by the investor and have no
relationship to yield or income, payments received cannot be considered as yield
or income on the investment and the resulting liquidations may deplete or
possibly extinguish the initial investment and any reinvested dividends and
capital gains distributions. Requests for increases in withdrawal amounts or to
change the payee must be submitted in writing, signed exactly as the account is
registered, and contain signature guarantee(s) as described under "Transaction
information - Redeeming shares Signature guarantees" in the Fund's prospectus.
Any such requests must be received by the Fund's transfer agent ten days prior
to the date of the first automatic withdrawal. An Automatic Withdrawal Plan may
be terminated at any time by the shareholder, the Trust or its agent on written
notice, and will be terminated when all shares of the Fund under the Plan have
been liquidated or upon receipt by the Trust of notice of death of the
shareholder.
An Automatic Withdrawal Plan request form can be obtained by calling
1-800-225-SCUDDER.
Group or Salary Deduction Plan
An investor may join a Group or Salary Deduction Plan where satisfactory
arrangements have been made with Scudder Investor Services, Inc. for forwarding
regular investments through a single source. The minimum annual investment is
$240 per investor which may be made in monthly, quarterly, semiannual or annual
payments. The minimum monthly deposit per investor is $20. Except for trustees
or custodian fees for certain retirement plans, at present there is no separate
charge for maintaining group or salary deduction plans; however, the Trust and
its agents reserve the right to establish a maintenance charge in the future
depending on the services required by the investor.
The Trust reserves the right, after notice has been given to the
shareholder, to redeem and close a shareholder's account in the event that the
shareholder ceases participating in the group plan prior to investment of $1,000
per individual or in the event of a redemption which occurs prior to the
accumulation of that amount or which reduces the account value to less than
$1,000 and the account value is not increased to $1,000 within a reasonable time
after notification. An investor in a plan who has not purchased shares for six
months shall be presumed to have stopped making payments under the plan.
Automatic Investment Plan
Shareholders may arrange to make periodic investments through automatic
deductions from checking accounts by completing the appropriate form and
providing the necessary documentation to establish this service. The minimum
investment is $50.
The Automatic Investment Plan involves an investment strategy called dollar
cost averaging. Dollar cost averaging is a method of investing whereby a
specific dollar amount is invested at regular intervals. By investing the same
dollar amount each period, when shares are priced low the investor will purchase
more shares than when the share price is higher. Over a period of time this
investment approach may allow the investor to reduce the average price of the
35
<PAGE>
shares purchased. However, this investment approach does not assure a profit or
protect against loss. This type of regular investment program may be suitable
for various investment goals such as, but not limited to, college planning or
saving for a home.
Uniform Transfers/Gifts to Minors Act
Grandparents, parents or other donors may set up custodian accounts for
minors. The minimum initial investment is $1,000 unless the donor agrees to
continue to make regular share purchases for the account through Scudder's
Automatic Investment Plan (AIP). In this case, the minimum initial investment is
$500.
The Trust reserves the right, after notice has been given to the
shareholder and custodian, to redeem and close a shareholder's account in the
event that regular investments to the account cease before the $1,000 minimum is
reached.
DIVIDENDS AND CAPITAL GAINS DISTRIBUTIONS
The Fund intends to follow the practice of distributing substantially all
and in no event less than 90% of its investment company taxable income including
any excess of net realized short-term capital gains over net realized long-term
capital losses. The Fund may follow the practice of distributing the entire
excess of net realized long-term capital gains over net realized short-term
capital losses. However, the Fund may retain all or part of such gain for
reinvestment, after paying the related federal income taxes for which the
shareholders may then claim a credit against their federal income tax liability.
If the Fund does not distribute an amount of capital gains and/or ordinary
income required to be distributed by an excise tax provision of the Code, it may
be subject to such tax. In certain circumstances, the Fund may determine that it
is in the interest of shareholders to distribute less than such an amount. (See
"TAXES.")
TheFund intends to declare daily and distribute monthly substantially all
of its investment company taxable income resulting from Fund investment
activity. Distributions, if any, of net realized capital gains normally will be
distributed in November or December. An additional distribution may be made, if
necessary. Distributions of certain realized gains or losses on the sale or
retirement of securities denominated in foreign currencies held by the Fund, to
the extent attributable to fluctuations in currency exchange rates, as well as
certain other gains or losses attributable to exchange rate fluctuations, are
treated as ordinary income or loss and also normally will be made in December.
Additional distributions may be made if necessary.
All distributions will be made in shares of the Fund and confirmations will
be mailed to each shareholder unless a shareholder has elected to receive cash,
in which case a check will be sent. Distributions are taxable, whether made in
shares or cash. (See "TAXES.")
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
From time to time, quotations of the Fund's performance may be included in
advertisements, sales literature or reports to shareholders or prospective
investors. These performance figures are calculated in the following manner:
Average Annual Total Return
Average annual total return is the average annual compound rate of return
for the periods of one year, five years and the life of the Fund, each ended on
the last day of a recent calendar quarter. Average annual total return
quotations reflect changes in the price of the Fund's shares and assume that all
dividends and capital gains distributions during the respective periods were
reinvested in Fund shares. Average annual total return is calculated by
computing the average annual compound rates of return of a hypothetical
investment over such periods, according to the following formula (average annual
total return is then expressed as a percentage):
36
<PAGE>
T = (ERV/P)1/n - 1
Where:
P = a hypothetical initial investment of $1,000
T = Average Annual Total Return
N = number of years
ERV = ending redeemable value: ERV is the value, at the end
of the applicable period, of a hypothetical $1,000
investment made at the beginning of the applicable
period.
Average Annual Total Return for periods ended October 31, 1999
One Year Five Years Ten Year Life of the Fund
International Bond Fund -2.70%* 2.72%* 7.48%* 7.30%
* If the Adviser had not maintained expenses, the average annual returns for
periods indicated would have been lower.
Cumulative Total Return
Cumulative total return is the cumulative rate of return on a hypothetical
initial investment of $1,000 for a specified period. Cumulative total return
quotations reflect changes in the price of the Fund's shares and assume that all
dividends and capital gains distributions during the period were reinvested in
Fund shares. Cumulative total return is calculated by computing the cumulative
rates of return of a hypothetical investment over such periods, according to the
following formula (cumulative total return is then expressed as a percentage):
C = (ERV/P) -1
Where:
C = Cumulative Total Return
P = a hypothetical initial investment of $1,000
ERV = ending redeemable value: ERV is the value, at the end
of the applicable period, of a hypothetical $1,000
investment made at the beginning of the applicable
period.
Cumulative Total Return for periods ended October 31, 1999
One Year Five Years Ten Year Life of the Fund
International Bond Fund -2.70%* 14.33%* 105.75% 122.10%
*
* If the Adviser had not maintained expenses, the cumulative total returns
for periods indicated would have been lower.
Total Return
Total return is the rate of return on an investment for a specified period
of time calculated in the same manner as cumulative total return.
Yield
Yield of International Bond Fund is the net annualized SEC yield of the
Fund based on a specified 30-day (or one month) period assuming semiannual
compounding of income. Yield is calculated by dividing the net investment
37
<PAGE>
income per share earned during the period by the maximum offering price per
share on the last day of the period, according to the following formula:
YIELD = 2[(a-b/cd + 1)6-1]
Where:
a = dividends and interest earned during the
period, including amortization of market
premium or accretion of market discount
b = expenses accrued for the period (net of
reimbursements)
c = the average daily number of shares
outstanding during the period that were
entitled to receive dividends
d = the maximum offering price per share on the
last day of the period
The SEC yield for the 30-day period ended October 31, 1999 was 4.00%.
Calculation of the Fund's yield does not take into account "Section 988
Transactions." (See "TAXES.")
From time to time The Fund may advertise potential advantages of investing
in foreign markets and may use these figures in an updated form. Past market
results are no guarantee of future performance. Data are based on bonds with
maturities of at least one year. Source: Salomon Brothers World Government Bond
Index.
Quotations of the Fund's performance are historical, show the performance
of a hypothetical investment, and are not intended to indicate future
performance. An investor's shares when redeemed may be worth more or less than
their original cost. Performance of the Fund will vary based on changed in
market conditions and the level of the Fund's expenses.
Comparison of Fund Performance
In connection with communicating its performance to current or prospective
shareholders, the Fund also may compare these figures to the performance of
unmanaged indices which may assume reinvestment of dividends or interest but
generally do not reflect deductions for administrative and management costs.
From time to time, in advertising and marketing literature, the Fund's
performance may be compared to the performance of broad groups of mutual funds
with similar investment goals, as tracked by independent organizations..
From time to time, in marketing and other Fund literature, Directors and
officers of the Fund, the Fund's portfolio manager, or members of the portfolio
management team may be depicted and quoted to give prospective and current
shareholders a better sense of the outlook and approach of those who manage the
Fund. In addition, the amount of assets that the Adviser has under management in
various geographical areas may be quoted in advertising and marketing materials.
Historical information on the value of the dollar versus foreign currencies
may be used from time to time in advertisements concerning the Fund. Such
historical information is not indicative of future fluctuations in the value of
the U.S. dollar against these currencies. In addition, marketing materials may
cite country and economic statistics and historical stock market performance for
any of the countries in which the Fund invests.
From time to time, in advertising and marketing literature, the Fund's
performance may be compared to the performance of broad groups of mutual funds
with similar investment goals, as tracked by independent organizations.
From time to time, in marketing and other Fund literature, Directors and
officers of the Fund, the Fund's portfolio manager, or members of the portfolio
management team may be depicted and quoted to give prospective and current
shareholders a better sense of the outlook and approach of those who manage the
Fund. In addition, the amount of assets that the Adviser has under management in
various geographical areas may be quoted in advertising and marketing materials.
The Fund may be advertised as an investment choice in Scudder's college
planning program. Statistical and other information, as provided by the Social
Security Administration, may be used in marketing materials pertaining to
38
<PAGE>
retirement planning in order to estimate future payouts of social security
benefits. Estimates may be used on demographic and economic data.
Marketing and other Fund literature may include a description of the
potential risks and rewards associated with an investment in the Fund. The
description may include a "risk/return spectrum" which compares the Fund to
other Scudder funds or broad categories of funds, such as money market, bond or
equity funds, in terms of potential risks and returns. Money market funds are
designed to maintain a constant $1.00 share price and have a fluctuating yield.
Share price, yield and total return of a bond fund will fluctuate. The share
price and return of an equity fund also will fluctuate. The description may also
compare the Fund to bank products, such as certificates of deposit. Unlike
mutual funds, certificates of deposit are insured up to $100,000 by the U.S.
government and offer a fixed rate of return.
Because bank products guarantee the principal value of an investment and
money market funds seek stability of principal, these investments are considered
to be less risky than investments in either bond or equity funds, which may
involve the loss of principal. However, all long-term investments, including
investments in bank products, may be subject to inflation risk, which is the
risk of erosion of the value of an investment as prices increase over a long
time period. The risks/returns associated with an investment in bond or equity
funds depend upon many factors. For bond funds these factors include, but are
not limited to, a fund's overall investment objective, the average portfolio
maturity, credit quality of the securities held, and interest rate movements.
For equity funds, factors include a fund's overall investment objective, the
types of equity securities held and the financial position of the issuers of the
securities. The risks/returns associated with an investment in international
bond or equity funds also will depend upon currency exchange rate fluctuation.
A risk/return spectrum generally will position the various investment
categories in the following order: bank products, money market funds, bond funds
and equity funds. Shorter-term bond funds generally are considered less risky
and offer the potential for less return than longer-term bond funds. The same is
true of domestic bond funds relative to international bond funds, and bond funds
that purchase higher quality securities relative to bond funds that purchase
lower quality securities. Growth and income equity funds are generally
considered to be less risky and offer the potential for less return than growth
funds. In addition, international equity funds usually are considered more risky
than domestic equity funds but generally offer the potential for greater return.
Risk/return spectrums also may depict funds that invest in both domestic
and foreign securities or a combination of bond and equity securities.
Evaluation of Fund performance or other relevant statistical information
made by independent sources may also be used in advertisements concerning the
Fund, including reprints of, or selections from, editorials or articles about
these Funds.
ORGANIZATION OF THE FUND
The Funds is a separate series of Global/International Fund, Inc., a
Maryland corporation organized on May 15, 1986. The name of the Corporation was
changed, effective May 29, 1998, from Scudder Global Fund, Inc. The Corporation
currently consists of five series: Scudder Global Bond Fund, Scudder
International Bond Fund, Scudder Global Fund, Global Discovery Fund and Scudder
Emerging Markets Income Fund.
The Board of Directors has subdivided the shares of Global Discovery Fund
into four classes, namely, the Scudder Shares, Global Discovery Fund Kemper
Class A, B and C shares. Although shareholders of different classes of a series
have an interest in the same portfolio of assets, shareholders of different
classes may bear different expenses in connection with different methods of
distribution.
The authorized capital stock of the Corporation consists of 800 million
shares with $0.01 par value, 300 million shares of which are allocated to Global
Bond Fund and 200 million shares of which are allocated to International Bond
Fund and 100 million shares each are allocated to Scudder Global Fund, Global
Discovery Fund and Scudder Emerging Markets Growth Fund. Each share of each
series of the Corporation has equal voting rights as to each other share of that
series as to voting for directors, redemption, dividends and liquidation.
Shareholders have one vote for each share held. The Directors have the authority
to issue additional series of shares and to designate the relative rights and
preferences
39
<PAGE>
as between the different series. If a series were unable to meet its
obligations, the remaining series should not have to assume the unsatisfied
obligation of that series. All shares issued and outstanding are fully paid and
non-assessable, transferable, and redeemable at net asset value at the option of
the shareholder. Shares have no pre-emptive or conversion rights.
Shares of the Corporation entitle their holders to one vote per share;
however, separate votes are taken by each series on matters affecting an
individual series. For example, a change in investment policy for a series would
be voted upon only by shareholders of the series involved. Additionally,
approval of the investment advisory agreement is a matter to be determined
separately by each series. Approval by the shareholders of one series is
effective as to that series whether or not enough votes are received from the
shareholders of the other series to approve such agreement as to the other
series.
The shares of the Corporation have non-cumulative voting rights, which
means that the holders of more than 50% of the shares voting for the election of
Directors can elect 100% of the directors if they choose to do so, and, in such
event, the holders of the remaining less than 50% of the shares voting for the
election of Directors will not be able to elect any person or persons to the
Board of Directors.
The Directors, in their discretion, may authorize the division of shares of
the Fund into different classes permitting shares of different classes to be
distributed by different methods. Although shareholders of different classes of
a series would have an interest in the same portfolio of assets, shareholders of
different classes may bear different expenses in connection with different
methods of distribution. .
Maryland corporate law provides that a Director of the Corporation shall
not be liable for actions taken in good faith, in a manner he or she reasonably
believes to be in the best interests of the Corporation and with the care that
an ordinarily prudent person in a like position would use under similar
circumstances. In so acting, a Director shall be fully protected in relying in
good faith upon the records of the Corporation and upon reports made to the
Corporation by persons selected in good faith by the Directors as qualified to
make such reports. The By-Laws provide that the Corporation will indemnify
Directors and officers of the Corporation against liabilities and expenses
reasonably incurred in connection with litigation in which they may be involved
because of their positions with the Corporation, to the fullest extent permitted
by Maryland corporate law as amended from time to time. However, nothing in the
Articles of Incorporation or the By-Laws protects or indemnifies a Director or
officer against any liability to which he or she would otherwise be subject by
reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard
of the duties involved in the conduct of his or her office.
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. (the "Adviser"), an investment counsel
firm, acts as investment adviser to the Fund. This organization, the predecessor
of which is Scudder, Stevens & Clark, Inc., is one of the most experienced
investment counsel firms in the U. S. It was established as a partnership in
1919 and pioneered the practice of providing investment counsel to individual
clients on a fee basis. In 1928 it introduced the first no-load mutual fund to
the public. In 1953 the Adviser introduced Scudder International Fund, Inc., the
first mutual fund available in the U.S. investing internationally in securities
of issuers in several foreign countries. The predecessor firm reorganized from a
partnership to a corporation on June 28, 1985On December 31, 1997, Zurich
Insurance Company ("Zurich") acquired a majority interest in the Adviser, and
Zurich Kemper Investments, Inc., a Zurich subsidiary, became part of the
AdviserThe Adviser's name changed to Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. On
September 7, 1998, the businesses of Zurich (including Zurich's 70% interest in
Scudder Kemper) and the financial services businesses of B.A.T Industries p.l.c.
("B.A.T") were combined to form a new global insurance and financial services
company known as Zurich Financial Services Group. By way of a dual holding
company structure, former Zurich shareholders initially owned approximately 57%
of Zurich Financial Services Group, with the balance initially owned by former
B.A.T shareholders.
Founded in 1872, Zurich is a multinational, public corporation organized
under the laws of Switzerland. Its home office is located at Mythenquai 2, 8002
Zurich, Switzerland. Historically, Zurich's earnings have resulted from its
operations as an insurer as well as from its ownership of its subsidiaries and
affiliated companies (the "Zurich Insurance Group"). Zurich and the Zurich
Insurance Group provide an extensive range of insurance products and services
and have branch offices and subsidiaries in more than 40 countries throughout
the world.
40
<PAGE>
The principal source of the Adviser's income is professional fees received
from providing continuous investment advice, and the firm derives no income from
brokerage or underwriting of securities. Today, it provides investment counsel
for many individuals and institutions, including insurance companies, colleges,
industrial corporations, and financial and banking organizations, as well as
providing investment advice to over 280 open and closed-end mutual funds. The
Adviser maintains a large research department, which conducts continuous studies
of the factors that affect the position of various industries, companies and
individual securities. The Adviser receives published reports and statistical
compilations from issuers and other sources, as well as analyses from brokers
and dealers who may execute portfolio transactions for the Adviser's clients.
However, the Adviser regards this information and material as an adjunct to its
own research activities. The Adviser's international investment management team
travels the world, researching hundreds of companies. In selecting the
securities in which the Fund may invest, the conclusions and investment
decisions of the Adviser with respect to the Fund are based primarily on the
analyses of its own research department.
Certain investments may be appropriate for the Fund and also for other
clients advised by the Adviser. Investment decisions for the Fund and other
clients are made with a view to achieving their respective investment objectives
and after consideration of such factors as their current holdings, availability
of cash for investment and the size of their investments generally. Frequently,
a particular security may be bought or sold for only one client or in different
amounts and at different times for more than one but less than all clients.
Likewise, a particular security may be bought for one or more clients when one
or more other clients are selling the security. In addition, purchases or sales
of the same security may be made for two or more clients on the same day. In
such event, such transactions will be allocated among the clients in a manner
believed by the Adviser to be equitable to each. In some cases, this procedure
could have an adverse effect on the price or amount of the securities purchased
or sold by the Fund. Purchase and sale orders for the Fund may be combined with
those of other clients of the Adviser in the interest of achieving the most
favorable net results to the Fund.
The present investment management agreements (the "Agreements") became
effective September 7, 1998, were approved at a shareholder meeting held on
December 15, 1998 and were most recently approved by the Directors on September
14, 1999.
The Agreements will continue in effect until September 30, 2000 and from
year to year thereafter only if their continuance is approved annually by the
vote of a majority of those Directors who are not parties to such Agreements or
interested persons of the Adviser or the Corporation, cast in person at a
meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval, and either by a vote
of the Corporation's Directors or of a majority of the outstanding voting
securities of the respective Fund. The Agreements may be terminated at any time
without payment of penalty by either party on sixty days' written notice and
automatically terminate in the event of their assignment.
Under the Agreement, the Adviser regularly provides the Fund with
continuing investment management for the Fund's portfolio consistent with the
Fund's investment objectives, policies and restrictions and determines what
securities shall be purchased for the portfolio of the Fund, what portfolio
securities shall be held or sold by the Fund, and what portion of the Fund's
assets shall be held uninvested, subject always to the provisions of the
Corporation's Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws, of the 1940 Act and the
Code and to the Fund's investment objectives, policies and restrictions, and
subject, further, to such policies and instructions as the Directors of the
Corporation may from time to time establish. The Adviser also advises and
assists the officers of the Corporation in taking such steps as are necessary or
appropriate to carry out the decisions of its Directors and the appropriate
committees of the Directors regarding the conduct of the business of the
Corporation.
Under the Agreement, the Adviser also renders significant administrative
services (not otherwise provided by third parties) necessary for the Fund's
operations as an open-end investment company including, but not limited to,
preparing reports and notices to the Directors and shareholders, supervising,
negotiating contractual arrangements with, and monitoring various third-party
service providers to the Fund (such as the Fund's transfer agent, pricing
agents, custodians, accountants and others); preparing and making filings with
the SEC and other regulatory agencies; assisting in the preparation and filing
of the Fund's federal, state and local tax returns; preparing and filing the
Fund's federal excise tax returns; assisting with investor and public relations
matters; monitoring the valuation of securities and the calculation of net asset
value; monitoring the registration of shares of the Fund under applicable
federal and state securities laws; maintaining the Fund's books and records to
the extent not otherwise maintained by a third party; assisting in establishing
accounting policies of the Fund; assisting in the resolution of accounting and
legal issues;
41
<PAGE>
establishing and monitoring the Fund's operating budget; processing the payment
of the Fund's bills; assisting the Fund in, and otherwise arranging for, the
payment of distributions and dividends and otherwise assisting the Fund in the
conduct of its business, subject to the direction and control of the Directors.
The Adviser pays the compensation and expenses (except those of attending
Board and committee meetings outside New York, New York and Boston,
Massachusetts) of all directors, officers and executive employees of the
Corporation affiliated with the Adviser and makes available, without expense to
the Fund, the services of such directors, officers and employees as may duly be
elected officers, subject to their individual consent to serve and to any
limitations imposed by law, and provides the Fund's office space and facilities.
The Fund pays the Adviser an annual fee equal to 0.85% of the first $1
billion of average daily net assets and 0.80% of such assets in excess of $1
billion. The fee is payable monthly, provided the Fund will make such interim
payments as may be requested by the Adviser not to exceed 75% of the amount of
the fee then accrued on the books of the Fund and unpaid. For the fiscal years
ended June 30, 1997, 1998 and 1999 the Adviser imposed a management fee
amounting to $3,077,316, $1,444,303 and $1,070,886, respectively. The Adviser
did not impose a portion of its management fee amounting to $110,285 for the
fiscal year ended June 30, 1998. For the four months ended October 31, 1998, the
Adviser did not impose a portion of its management fee amounting to $37,131, and
the Adviser imposed a management fee amounting to $375,286. Total Fund operating
expenses are contractually maintained at 1.50% until February 28, 2001. For the
fiscal year ended October 31, 1999, the Adviser did not impose a portion of its
management fee amounting to $166,835. Under the Agreement, the Fund is
responsible for all of its other expenses including organization expenses; fees
and expenses incurred in connection with membership in investment company
organizations; broker's commissions; legal, auditing and accounting expenses;
taxes and governmental fees; the fees and expenses of the Transfer Agent; the
cost of preparing share certificates or any other expenses, including clerical
expenses of issue, redemption or repurchase of shares of capital stock; the
expenses of and the fees for registering or qualifying securities for sale; the
fees and expenses of the Directors, officers and employees who are not
affiliated with the Adviser; the cost of printing and distributing reports and
notices to shareholders; and the fees and disbursements of custodians. The
Corporation may arrange to have third parties assume all or part of the expenses
of sale, underwriting and distribution of shares of the Fund. The Fund is also
responsible for its expenses incurred in connection with litigation, proceedings
and claims and the legal obligation it may have to indemnify its officers and
Directors with respect thereto. The custodian agreements provide that the
custodian shall compute the Fund's net asset value. The Agreements expressly
provide that the Adviser shall not be required to pay a pricing agent of the
Fund for portfolio pricing services, if any.
The Agreement identifies the Adviser as the exclusive licensee of the
rights to use and sublicense the names "Scudder," "Scudder Kemper Investments,
Inc." and "Scudder, Stevens and Clark, Inc." (together, the "Scudder Marks").
Under this license, the Corporation, with respect to the Fund, has the
non-exclusive right to use and sublicense the Scudder name and marks as part of
its name, and to use the Scudder Marks in the Corporation's investment products
and services.
The Agreement provides that the Adviser shall not be liable for any error
of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the relevant Fund in
connection with matters to which the Agreements relate, except a loss resulting
from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the
Adviser in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard by the
Adviser of its obligations and duties under the Agreements.
Officers and employees of the Adviser from time to time may have
transactions with various banks, including the Fund's custodian banks. It is the
Adviser's opinion that the terms and conditions of those transactions which have
occurred were not influenced by existing or potential custodial or other Fund
relationships.
The Adviser may serve as Adviser to other funds with investment objectives
and policies similar to those of the Fund that may have different distribution
arrangements or expenses, which may affect performance.
None of the officers or Directors may have dealings with the Fund as
principals in the purchase or sale of securities, except as individual
subscribers or holders of shares of the Fund.
The term Scudder Investments is the designation given to the services
provided by Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. and its affiliates to the Scudder
Family of Funds.
42
<PAGE>
Pursuant to an Agreement between the Adviser and AMA Solutions, Inc., a
subsidiary of the American Medical Association (the "AMA"), dated May 9, 1997,
the Adviser has agreed, subject to applicable state regulations, to pay AMA
Solutions, Inc. royalties in an amount equal to 5% of the management fee
received by the Adviser with respect to assets invested by AMA members in
Scudder funds in connection with the AMA InvestmentLink(SM) Program. The Adviser
will also pay AMA Solutions, Inc. a general monthly fee, currently in the amount
of $833. The AMA and AMA Solutions, Inc. are not engaged in the business of
providing investment advice and neither is registered as an investment adviser
or broker/dealer under federal securities laws. Any person who participates in
the AMA InvestmentLinkSM Program will be a customer of the Adviser (or of a
subsidiary thereof) and not the AMA or AMA Solutions, Inc. AMA
InvestmentLink(SM) is a service mark of AMA Solutions, Inc.
Personal Investments by Employees of the Adviser
Employees of the Adviser are permitted to make personal securities
transactions, subject to requirements and restrictions set forth in the
Adviser's Code of Ethics. The Code of Ethics contains provisions and
requirements designed to identify and address certain conflicts of interest
between personal investment activities and the interests of investment advisory
clients such as the Fund. Among other things, the Code of Ethics, which
generally complies with standards recommended by the Investment Company
Institute's Advisory Group on Personal Investing, prohibits certain types of
transactions absent prior approval, imposes time periods during which personal
transactions may not be made in certain securities, and requires the submission
of duplicate broker confirmations and monthly reporting of securities
transactions. Additional restrictions apply to portfolio managers, traders,
research analysts and others involved in the investment advisory process.
Exceptions to these and other provisions of the Code of Ethics may be granted in
particular circumstances after review by appropriate personnel.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
Position with
Underwriter,
Name, Age and Position Scudder Investor
Address with Corporation Principal Occupation** Services Inc.
- ------- ---------------- ---------------------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Nicholas Bratt President, all series Managing Director of Scudder --
(50)++@ except Scudder Global Fund Kemper Investments, Inc.
William E. President, Scudder Global Managing Director of Scudder --
Holzer++@ (49) Fund Kemper Investments, Inc.
Sheryle J. Director Chief Executive Officer and --
Bolton (53) Director, Scientific Learning
Scientific Learning Corporation, Former President
Corporation and Chief Operating Officer,
1995 University Ave. Physicians Online, Inc.
Suite 400 (electronic transmission of
San Francisco, CA 94704 clinical information for
physicians (1994-1995)
William T. Burgin (56) Director General Partner, Bessemer --
83 Walnut Street Venture Partners; General
Wellesley, MA 02181-2101 Partner, Deer & Company;
Director, Fort James
Corporation; Director, Galileo
Corporation; Director of
various privately held
companies
43
<PAGE>
Position with
Underwriter,
Name, Age and Position Scudder Investor
Address with Corporation Principal Occupation** Services Inc.
- ------- ---------------- ---------------------- -------------
Keith R. Fox (45) Director Private Equity Investor, Exeter --
10 East 53rd Street Capital Management
New York, NY 10022 Corporation
William H. Luers (70) Director Chairman and President of the --
The United Nations United Nations Association
Association of America of America
801 Second Avenue (organizer/researcher of U.N.-
New York, NY 10017 supporting entities);
Retired, President, The
Metropolitan Museum of Art
(1986 to 1999)
Kathryn L. Quirk*#++(46) Director, Vice President Managing Director of Scudder Director, Senior Vice
and Assistant Secretary Kemper Investments, Inc. President, Chief Legal
Officer and Assistant
Clerk
Joan E. Spero (55) Director President, Doris Duke --
Doris Duke Charitable Charitable Foundation(1997-
Foundation present); Undersecretary of
650 Fifth Avenue State for Economic, Business
19th Floor and Agricultural Affairs
New York, NY 10128 (March 1993-January 1997)
Paul Bancroft III (69) Honorary Director Venture Capitalist and
79 Pine Lane Consultant: Retired President,
Box 6639 Chief Executive Officer and
Snowmass Village, CO Director, Besemer Securities
81615 Corporation
Thomas J. Devine (72) Honorary Director Consultant --
450 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10022
William H. Gleysteen, Jr. Honorary Director Consultant; Guest Scholar, --
(72) Brookings Institution;
4937 Crescent Street President, The Japan Society,
Bethesda, MD 20816 Inc. (1989-December 1995)
Robert G. Stone, Jr. (76) Honorary Director Chairman Emeritus and --
405 Lexington Avenue Director, Kirby Corporation
New York, NY 10174 (inland and offshore marine
transportation and diesel
repairs)
44
<PAGE>
Position with
Underwriter,
Name, Age and Position Scudder Investor
Address with Corporation Principal Occupation** Services Inc.
- ------- ---------------- ---------------------- -------------
Jan C. Faller ( )+ Vice President Vice President of Scudder --
Kemper Investments, Inc.
Ann M. McCreary++(43) Vice President Managing Director of Scudder --
Kemper Investments, Inc.
Gerald J. Moran++ (59) Vice President Senior Vice President of --
Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc.
Isabel M. Saltzman+ (44) Vice President Managing Director of Scudder --
Kemper Investments, Inc.
John R. Hebble+ (41) Treasurer Senior Vice President of Assistant Treasurer
Scudder Kemper Investments,
Inc.
John Millette (37)+ Vice President and Assistant Vice President of --
Secretary Scudder Kemper Investments,
Inc. since September 1994;
previously employed by the
law firm Kaye, Scholer,
Fierman, Hays & Handler
Caroline Pearson+ (37) Assistant Secretary Senior Vice President of Clerk
Scudder Kemper Investments,
Inc.; Associate, Dechert Price
& Rhoads (law firm) 1989 -
1997
</TABLE>
* Ms. Quirk is considered by the Corporation and its counsel to be a person
who is an "interested person" of the Adviser or of the Corporation (as
defined in the 1940 Act).
** Unless otherwise stated, all the Directors and officers have been
associated with their respective companies for more than five years, but
not necessarily in the same capacity.
# Ms. Quirk is a member of the Executive Committee, which may exercise the
powers of the Directors when they are not in session.
+ Address: Two International Place, Boston, Massachusetts
++ Address: 345 Park Avenue, New York, New York
@ The President of a series shall have the status of Vice President of the
Corporation.
To the knowledge of the Corporation, as of January 31, 2000, all Directors
and Officers as a group owned beneficially (as the term is defined in Section
13(d) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) less than 1% of the shares of
International Bond Fund outstanding on such date.
To the knowledge of the Corporation, as of January 31, 2000, 1,518,034
shares in the aggregate, 14.61% of the outstanding shares, of International Bond
Fund, were held in the name of Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., 101 Montgomery
45
<PAGE>
Street, San Francisco, CA 94104-4122, who may be deemed to be the beneficial
owner of certain of these shares, but disclaims any beneficial ownership
therein.
Except as stated above, to the knowledge of the Corporation, as of January
31, 2000, no person owned beneficially more than 5% of the Fund's outstanding
shares.
The Directors and officers also serve in similar capacities with respect to
other Scudder funds.
REMUNERATION
Responsibilities of the Board - Board and Committee Meetings
The Board of Directors is responsible for the general oversight of the
Fund's business. A majority of the Board's members are not affiliated with
Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. These "Independent Directors" have primary
responsibility for assuring that the Fund is managed in the best interests of
its shareholders.
The Board of Directors meets at least quarterly to review the investment
performance of the Fund and other operational matters, including policies and
procedures designed to ensure compliance with various regulatory requirements.
At least annually, the Independent Directors review the fees paid to the Adviser
and its affiliates for investment advisory services and other administrative and
shareholder services. In this regard, they evaluate, among other things, the
Fund's investment performance, the quality and efficiency of the various other
services provided, costs incurred by the Adviser and its affiliates and
comparative information regarding fees and expenses of competitive funds. They
are assisted in this process by the Fund's independent public accountants and by
independent legal counsel selected by the Independent Directors.
All the Independent Directors serve on the Committee on Independent
Directors, which nominates Independent Directors and considers other related
matters, and the Audit Committee, which selects the Fund's independent public
accountants and reviews accounting policies and controls. In addition,
Independent Directors from time to time have established and served on task
forces and subcommittees focusing on particular matters such as investment,
accounting and shareholder service issues.
Compensation of Officers and Directors
The Independent Directors receive the following compensation from the Funds
of Global/International Fund, Inc.: an annual director's fee of $3,500; a fee of
$325 for attendance at each board meeting, audit committee meeting or other
meeting held for the purposes of considering arrangements between the
Corporation on behalf of the Fund and the Adviser or any affiliate of the
Adviser; $100 for all other committee meetings; and reimbursement of expenses
incurred for travel to and from Board Meetings. No additional compensation is
paid to any Independent Director for travel time to meetings, attendance at
directors' educational seminars or conferences, service on industry or
association committees, participation as speakers at directors' conferences or
service on special director task forces or subcommittees. Independent Directors
do not receive any employee benefits such as pension or retirement benefits or
health insurance. Notwithstanding the schedule of fees, the Independent
Directors have in the past and may in the future waive a portion of their
compensation.
The Independent Directors also serve in the same capacity for other funds
managed by the Adviser. These funds differ broadly in type and complexity and in
some cases have substantially different Director fee schedules. The following
table shows the aggregate compensation received by each Independent Director
during 1999 from the Corporation and from all of the Scudder funds as a group.
46
<PAGE>
Name Global/International Fund, Inc. All Scudder Funds
---- ------------------------------- -----------------
Paul Bancroft III, Director $31,500 $159,991 (25 funds)
Sheryle J. Bolton, Director $38,000 $179,860 (24 funds)
William T. Burgin, Director $36,375 $160,325 (23 funds)
Keith R. Fox, Director $36,375 $160,325 (23 funds)
William H. Gleysteen, Jr. $ 0.00 $19,933@ (2 funds)
Honorary Director
William H. Luers, Director $39,625 $212,596 (26 funds)
Joan E. Spero*** $39,625 $175,275 (23 funds)
* Global/International Fund, Inc. consists of five funds: Scudder Global Fund,
Scudder International Bond Fund, Scudder Global Bond Fund, Global Discovery
Fund and Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund.
*** Elected as Director of the Corporation in September 1998.
@ This amount does not reflect $6,208 in retirement benefits accrued as part of
Fund Complex expenses, and $3,000, in estimated annual benefits payable upon
retirement. Retirement benefits accrued and proposed are to be paid to Mr.
Gleysteen as additional compensation for serving on the Board of The Japan
Fund, Inc.
Members of the Board of Directors who are employees of the Adviser or its
affiliates receive no direct compensation from the Corporation, although they
are compensated as employees of the Adviser, or its affiliates, as a result of
which they may be deemed to participate in fees paid by the Fund.
DISTRIBUTOR
The Corporation has an underwriting agreement with Scudder Investor
Services, Inc., Two International Place, Boston, MA 02110 (the "Distributor"), a
Massachusetts corporation, which is a wholly owned subsidiary of the Adviser, a
Delaware corporation. The Corporation's underwriting agreement dated September
7, 1998 will remain in effect until September 30, 2000 and from year to year
thereafter only if its continuance is approved annually by a majority of the
Board of Directors who are not parties to such agreement or interested persons
of any such party and either by a vote of a majority of the Directors or a
majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Corporation. The Directors
most recently approved the underwriting agreement on September 14, 1999.
Under the principal underwriting agreement, the Corporation is responsible
for: the payment of all fees and expenses in connection with the preparation and
filing with the SEC of the Fund's registration statement and prospectuses and
any amendments and supplements thereto, the registration and qualification of
shares for sale in the various states, including registering the Corporation as
a broker/dealer in various states; the fees and expenses of preparing, printing
and mailing prospectuses annually to existing shareholders (see below for
expenses relating to
47
<PAGE>
prospectuses paid by the Distributor), notices, proxy statements, reports or
other communications to shareholders of the Fund; the cost of printing and
mailing confirmations of purchases of shares and any prospectuses accompanying
such confirmations; any issue taxes or any initial transfer taxes; a portion of
shareholder toll-free telephone charges and expenses of shareholder service
representatives, the cost of wiring funds for share purchases and redemptions
(unless paid by the shareholder who initiates the transaction); the cost of
printing and postage of business reply envelopes; and a portion of the cost of
computer terminals used by both the Corporation and the Distributor.
The Distributor will pay for printing and distributing prospectuses or
reports prepared for its use in connection with the offering of the Fund's
shares to the public and preparing, printing and mailing any other literature or
advertising in connection with the offering of shares of the Fund to the public.
The Distributor will pay all fees and expenses in connection with its
qualification and registration as a broker or dealer under federal and state
laws, a portion of the cost of toll-free telephone service and expenses of
service representatives, a portion of the cost of computer terminals, and of any
activity which is primarily intended to result in the sale of shares issued by
the Corporation unless a Rule 12b-1 Plan is in effect which provides that the
Fund shall bear some or all of such expenses.
Note: Although the Fund currently has no 12b-1 Plan, the Fund would also pay
those fees and expenses permitted to be paid or assumed by the Fund
pursuant to a 12b-1 Plan, if any, adopted by the Fund, notwithstanding
any other provision to the contrary in the underwriting agreement.
As agent, the Distributor currently offers the Fund's shares on a
continuous basis to investors in all states. The underwriting agreement provides
that the Distributor accepts orders for shares at net asset value as no sales
commission or load is charged the investor. The Distributor has made no firm
commitment to acquire shares of the Corporation.
TAXES
The Fund has elected to be treated as a regulated investment company under
Subchapter M of the Code, or a predecessor statute and has qualified as such
since its inception. It intends to continue to qualify for such treatment. Such
qualification does not involve governmental supervision or management of
investment practices or policy.
A regulated investment company qualifying under Subchapter M of the Code
is required to distribute to its shareholders at least 90 percent of its
investment company taxable income (including net short-term capital gain) and
generally is not subject to federal income tax to the extent that it distributes
annually its investment company taxable income and net realized capital gains in
the manner required under the Code.
If for any taxable year the Fund does not qualify for the special federal
income tax treatment afforded regulated investment companies, all of its taxable
income will be subject to federal income tax at regular corporate rates (without
any deduction for distributions to its shareholders).
The Fund is subject to a 4% nondeductible excise tax on amounts required to
be but not distributed under a prescribed formula. The formula requires payment
to shareholders during a calendar year of distributions representing at least
98% of the Fund's ordinary income for the calendar year, at least 98% of the
excess of its capital gains over capital losses (adjusted for certain ordinary
losses) realized during the one-year period ending October 31 during such year,
and all ordinary income and capital gains for prior years that were not
previously distributed.
Investment company taxable income generally is made up of dividends,
interest and net short-term capital gains in excess of net long-term capital
losses, less expenses. Net realized capital gains for a fiscal year are computed
by taking into account any capital loss carryforward of the Fund.
If any net realized long-term capital gains in excess of net realized
short-term capital losses are retained by the Fund for reinvestment, requiring
federal income taxes to be paid thereon by the Fund, that Fund intends to elect
to treat such capital gains as having been distributed to shareholders. As a
result, each shareholder will report such capital gains as long-term capital
gains, will be able to claim a proportionate share of federal income taxes paid
by the Fund on such gains as a credit against the shareholder's federal income
tax liability, and will be entitled to increase the adjusted tax
48
<PAGE>
basis of the shareholder's Fund shares by the difference between such reported
gains and the shareholder's tax credit. If the Fund makes such an election, it
may not be treated as having met the excise tax distribution requirement.
Distributions of investment company taxable income are taxable to
shareholders as ordinary income.
Dividends from domestic corporations are not expected to comprise a
substantial part of the Fund's gross income. If any such dividends constitute a
portion of the Fund's gross income, a portion of the income distributions of
that Fund may be eligible for the 70% deduction for dividends received by
corporations. Shareholders will be informed of the portion of dividends which so
qualify. The dividends-received deduction is reduced to the extent the shares of
the Fund with respect to which the dividends are received are treated as
debt-financed under federal income tax law and is eliminated if either those
shares or shares of the Fund are deemed to have been held by the Fund or the
shareholder, as the case may be, for less than 46 days during the 90-day period
beginning 45 days before the shares become ex-dividend.
Properly designated distributions of the excess of net long-term capital
gain over net short-term capital loss are taxable to shareholders as long-term
capital gains, regardless of the length of time the shares of the Fund have been
held by such shareholders. Such distributions are not eligible for the
dividends-received deduction. Any loss realized upon the redemption of shares
held at the time of redemption for six months or less will be treated as a
long-term capital loss to the extent of any amounts treated as distributions of
long-term capital gain during such six-month period.
Distributions of investment company taxable income and net realized
capital gains will be taxable as described above, whether received in shares or
in cash. Shareholders electing to receive distributions in the form of
additional shares will have a cost basis for federal income tax purposes in each
share so received equal to the net asset value of a share on the reinvestment
date.
All distributions of investment company taxable income and net realized
capital gain, whether received in shares or in cash, must be reported by each
shareholder on his or her federal income tax return. Dividends declared in
October, November or December with a record date in such a month will be deemed
to have been received by shareholders on December 31, if paid during January of
the following year. Redemptions of shares, including exchanges for shares of
another Scudder fund, may result in tax consequences (gain or loss) to the
shareholder and are also subject to these reporting requirements.
An individual may make a deductible IRA contribution of up to $2,000 or,
if less, the amount of the individual's earned income for any taxable year only
if (i) neither the individual nor his or her spouse (unless filing separate
returns) is an active participant in an employer's retirement plan, or (ii) the
individual (and his or her spouse, if applicable) has an adjusted gross income
below a certain level ($52,000 for married individuals filing a joint return,
with a phase-out of the deduction for adjusted gross income between $52,000 and
$62,000; $32,000 for a single individual, with a phase-out for adjusted gross
income between $32,000 and $42,000). However, an individual not permitted to
make a deductible contribution to an IRA for any such taxable year may
nonetheless make nondeductible contributions up to $2,000 to an IRA (up to
$2,500 per individual for married couples if only one spouse has earned income)
for that year. There are special rules for determining how withdrawals are to be
taxed if an IRA contains both deductible and nondeductible amounts. In general,
a proportionate amount of each withdrawal will be deemed to be made from
nondeductible contributions; amounts treated as a return of nondeductible
contributions will not be taxable. Also, annual contributions may be made to a
spousal IRA even if the spouse has earnings in a given year if the spouse elects
to be treated as having no earnings (for IRA contribution purposes) for the
year.
Distributions by the Fund result in a reduction in the net asset value of
that Fund's shares. Should a distribution reduce the net asset value below a
shareholder's cost basis, such distribution would nevertheless be taxable to the
shareholder as ordinary income or capital gain as described above, even though,
from an investment standpoint, it may constitute a partial return of capital. In
particular, investors should consider the tax implications of buying shares just
prior to a distribution. The price of shares purchased at that time includes the
amount of the forthcoming distribution. Those purchasing just prior to a
distribution will then receive a partial return of capital upon the
distribution, which will nevertheless be taxable to them.
The Fund intends to qualify for and may make the election permitted under
Section 853 of the Code so that shareholders may (subject to limitations) be
able to claim a credit or deduction on their federal income tax returns for,
49
<PAGE>
and will be required to treat as part of the amounts distributed to them, their
pro rata portion of qualified taxes paid by the Fund to foreign countries (which
taxes relate primarily to investment income). The Fund may make an election
under Section 853 of the Code, provided that more than 50% of the value of the
total assets of the Fund at the close of the taxable year consists of securities
in foreign corporations. The foreign tax credit available to shareholders is
subject to certain limitations imposed by the Code except in the case of certain
electing individual shareholders who have limited creditable foreign taxes and
no foreign source income other than passive investment-type income. Furthermore,
the foreign tax credit is eliminated with respect to foreign taxes withheld on
dividends if the dividend-paying shares or the shares of the Fund are held by
the Fund or the shareholder, as the case may be, for less than 16 days (46 days
in the case of preferred shares) during the 30-day period (90-day period for
preferred shares) beginning 15 days (45 days for preferred shares) before the
shares become ex-dividend. In addition, if the Fund fails to satisfy these
holding period requirements, it cannot elect under Section 853 to pass through
to shareholders the ability to claim a deduction for the related foreign taxes.
The Fund may make an election to mark to market its shares of these foreign
investment companies in lieu of being subject to U.S. federal income taxation.
At the end of each taxable year to which the election applies, the Fund would
report as ordinary income the amount by which the fair market value of the
foreign company's stock exceeds the Fund's adjusted basis in these shares; any
mark to market losses and any loss from an actual disposition of shares would be
deductible as ordinary loss to the extent of any net mark to market gains
included in income in prior years. The effect of the election would be to treat
excess distributions and gain on dispositions as ordinary income which is not
subject to a fund level tax when distributed to shareholders as a dividend.
Alternatively, the Fund may elect to include as income and gain its share of the
ordinary earnings and net capital gain of certain foreign investment companies
in lieu of being taxed in the manner described above.
Equity options (including covered call options written on portfolio stock)
and over-the-counter options on debt securities written or purchased by the Fund
will be subject to tax under Section 1234 of the Code. In general, no loss will
be recognized by the Fund upon payment of a premium in connection with the
purchase of a put or call option. The character of any gain or loss recognized
(i.e. long-term or short-term) will generally depend, in the case of a lapse or
sale of the option, on the Fund's holding period for the option, and in the case
of the exercise of a put option, on the Fund's holding period for the underlying
property. The purchase of a put option may constitute a short sale for federal
income tax purposes, causing an adjustment in the holding period of any property
in the Fund's portfolio similar to the property underlying the put option. If
the Fund writes an option, no gain is recognized upon its receipt of a premium.
If the option lapses or is closed out, any gain or loss is treated as short-term
capital gain or loss. If a call option is exercised, the character of the gain
or loss depends on the holding period of the underlying stock.
Positions of the Fund which consist of at least one stock and at least one
stock option or other position with respect to a related security which
substantially diminishes that Fund's risk of loss with respect to such stock
could be treated as a "straddle" which is governed by Section 1092 of the Code,
the operation of which may cause deferral of losses, adjustments in the holding
periods of stocks or securities and conversion of short-term capital losses into
long-term capital losses. An exception to these straddle rules exists for
certain "qualified covered call options" on stock written by the relevant Fund.
Many futures and forward contracts entered into by the Fund and listed
nonequity options written or purchased by the Fund (including options on debt
securities, options on futures contracts, options on securities indices and
options on currencies), will be governed by Section 1256 of the Code. Absent a
tax election to the contrary, gain or loss attributable to the lapse, exercise
or closing out of any such position generally will be treated as 60% long-term
and 40% short-term capital gain or loss, and on the last trading day of the
Fund's fiscal year, all outstanding Section 1256 positions will be marked to
market (i.e., treated as if such positions were closed out at their closing
price on such day), with any resulting gain or loss recognized as 60% long-term
and 40% short-term capital gain or loss. Under Section 988 of the Code,
discussed below, foreign currency gain or loss from foreign currency-related
forward contracts, certain futures and options and similar financial instruments
entered into or acquired by the Fund will be treated as ordinary income or loss.
If the Fund writes a covered call option on portfolio stock, no gain is
recognized upon its receipt of a premium. If the option lapses or is closed out,
any gain or loss is treated as short-term capital gain or loss. If the option is
exercised, the character of the gain or loss depends on the holding period of
the underlying stock.
50
<PAGE>
Positions of the Fund which consist of at least one position not governed
by Section 1256 and at least one futures or forward contract or nonequity option
or other position governed by Section 1256 which substantially diminishes that
Fund's risk of loss with respect to such other position will be treated as a
"mixed straddle." Although mixed straddles are subject to the straddle rules of
Section 1092 of the Code, the operation of which may cause deferral of losses,
adjustments in the holding periods of securities and conversion of short-term
capital losses into long-term capital losses, certain tax elections exist for
them which reduce or eliminate the operation of these rules. The Fund will
monitor its transactions in options, foreign currency futures and forward
contracts and may make certain tax elections in connection with these
investments.
Notwithstanding any of the foregoing, recent tax law changes may require
the Fund to recognize gain (but not loss) from a constructive sale of certain
"appreciated financial positions" if the Fund enters into a short sale,
offsetting notional principal contract, futures or forward contract transaction
with respect to the appreciated position or substantially identical property.
Appreciated financial positions subject to this constructive sale treatment are
interests (including options, futures and forward contracts and short sales) in
stock, partnership interests, certain actively traded trust instruments and
certain debt instruments. Constructive sale treatment of appreciated financial
positions does not apply to certain transactions closed in the 90-day period
ending with the 30th day after the close of the Fund's taxable year, if certain
conditions are met.
Similarly, if the Fund enters into a short sale of property that becomes
substantially worthless, the Fund will be required to recognize gain at that
time as though it had closed the short sale. Future regulations may apply
similar treatment to other strategic transactions with respect to property that
becomes substantially worthless.
Under the Code, gains or losses attributable to fluctuations in exchange
rates which occur between the time the Fund accrues receivables or liabilities
denominated in a foreign currency and the time that Fund actually collects such
receivables or pays such liabilities generally are treated as ordinary income or
ordinary loss. Similarly, on disposition of debt securities denominated in a
foreign currency and on disposition of certain options, futures and forward
contracts, gains or losses attributable to fluctuations in the value of foreign
currency between the date of acquisition of the security or contract and the
date of disposition are also treated as ordinary gain or loss. These gains or
losses, referred to under the Code as "Section 988" gains or losses, may
increase or decrease the amount of the Fund's investment company taxable income
to be distributed to its shareholders as ordinary income.
The Fund may make an election to mark to market its shares of these
foreign investment companies, in lieu of being subject to U.S. federal income
taxation. At the end of each taxable year to which the election applies, the
Fund would report as ordinary income the amount by which the fair market value
of the foreign company's stock exceeds the Fund's adjusted basis in these
shares; any mark-to-market losses and any loss from an actual disposition of
stock would be deductible as ordinary losses to the extent of any net
mark-to-market gains previously included in income in prior years. The effect of
this election would be to treat excess distributions and gain on dispositions as
ordinary income which is not subject to the Fund-level tax when distributed to
shareholders as a dividend. Alternatively, the Fund may elect to include as
income and gain their share of the ordinary earnings and net capital gain of
certain foreign investment companies in lieu of being taxed in the manner
described above.
If the Fund holds zero coupon securities or other securities which are
issued at a discount a portion of the difference between the issue price and the
face value of such securities ("original issue discount") will be treated as
income to the Fund each year, even though the Fund will not receive cash
interest payments from these securities. This original issue discount (imputed
income) will comprise a part of the investment company taxable income of the
Fund which must be distributed to shareholders in order to maintain the
qualification of the Fund as a regulated investment company and to avoid federal
income tax at the Fund level. In addition, if the Fund invests in certain high
yield original issue discount obligations issued by corporations, a portion of
the original issue discount accruing on the obligation may be eligible for the
deduction for dividends received by corporations. In such event, dividends of
investment company taxable income received from the Fund by its corporate
shareholders, to the extent attributable to such portion of accrued original
issue discount, may be eligible for this deduction for dividends received by
corporations if so designated by the Fund in a written notice to shareholders.
The Fund will be required to report to the Internal Revenue Service all
distributions of investment company taxable income and capital gains as well as
gross proceeds from the redemption or exchange of Fund shares, except in
51
<PAGE>
the case of certain exempt shareholders. Under the backup withholding provisions
of Section 3406 of the Code, distributions of investment company taxable income
and capital gains and proceeds from the redemption or exchange of the shares of
a regulated investment company may be subject to withholding of federal income
tax at the rate of 31% in the case of non-exempt shareholders who fail to
furnish the investment company with their taxpayer identification numbers and
with required certifications regarding their status under the federal income tax
law. Withholding may also be required if the Fund is notified by the IRS or a
broker that the taxpayer identification number furnished by the shareholder is
incorrect or that the shareholder has previously failed to report interest or
dividend income. If the withholding provisions are applicable, any such
distributions and proceeds, whether taken in cash or reinvested in additional
shares, will be reduced by the amounts required to be withheld.
Shareholders of the Fund may be subject to state and local taxes on
distributions received from the Fund and on redemptions of the Fund's shares.
The foregoing discussion of U.S. federal income tax law relates solely to
the application of that law to U.S. persons, i.e., U.S. citizens and residents
and U.S. corporations, partnerships, trusts and estates. Each shareholder who is
not a U.S. person should consider the U.S. and foreign tax consequences of
ownership of shares of the Fund, including the possibility that such a
shareholder may be subject to a U.S. withholding tax at a rate of 30% (or at a
lower rate under an applicable income tax treaty) on amounts constituting
ordinary income received by him or her, where such amounts are treated as income
from U.S. sources under the Code.
Shareholders should consult their tax advisers about the application of the
provisions of tax law described in this Statement of Additional Information in
light of their particular tax situations.
PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS
Brokerage Commissions
Allocation of brokerage is supervised by the Adviser.
The primary objective of the Adviser in placing orders for the purchase and
sale of securities for the Fund is to obtain the most favorable net results,
taking into account such factors as price, commission where applicable, size of
order, difficulty of execution and skill required of the executing
broker/dealer. The Adviser seeks to evaluate the overall reasonableness of
brokerage commissions paid (to the extent applicable) through the familiarity of
the Distributor with commissions charged on comparable transactions, as well as
by comparing commissions paid by the Fund to reported commissions paid by
others. The Adviser reviews on a routine basis commission rates, execution and
settlement services performed, making internal and external comparisons.
The Fund's purchases and sales of fixed-income securities are generally
placed by the Adviser with primary market makers for these securities on a net
basis, without any brokerage commission being paid by the Fund. Trading does,
however, involve transaction costs. Transactions with dealers serving as primary
market makers reflect the spread between the bid and asked prices. Purchases of
underwritten issues may be made, which will include an underwriting fee paid to
the underwriter.
When it can be done consistently with the policy of obtaining the most
favorable net results, it is the Adviser's practice to place such orders with
broker/dealers who supply research, market and statistical information to the
Fund. The term "research, market and statistical information" includes advice as
to the value of securities; the advisability of investing in, purchasing or
selling securities; the availability of securities or purchasers or sellers of
securities; and analyses and reports concerning issuers, industries, securities,
economic factors and trends, portfolio strategy and the performance of accounts.
The Adviser is authorized when placing portfolio transactions for the Fund to
pay a brokerage commission in excess of that which another broker might charge
for executing the same transaction on account of execution services and the
receipt of research, market or statistical information. The Adviser will not
place orders with broker/dealers on the basis that the broker/dealer has or has
not sold shares of the Fund. In effecting transactions in over-the-counter
securities, orders are placed with the principal market makers for the security
being traded unless, after exercising care, it appears that more favorable
results are available elsewhere.
52
<PAGE>
To the maximum extent feasible, it is expected that the Adviser will place
orders for portfolio transactions through the Distributor, which is a
corporation registered as a broker-dealer and a subsidiary of the Adviser; the
Distributor will place orders on behalf of the Fund with issuers, underwriters
or other brokers and dealers. The Distributor will not receive any commission,
fee or other remuneration from the Fund for this service.
Although certain research, market and statistical information from
broker/dealers may be useful to the Fund and to the Adviser, it is the opinion
of the Adviser that such information only supplements the Adviser's own research
effort since the information must still be analyzed, weighed, and reviewed by
the Adviser's staff. Such information may be useful to the Adviser in providing
services to clients other than the Fund, and the Adviser in connection with the
Fund uses not all such information. Conversely, such information provided to the
Adviser by broker/dealers through whom other clients of the Adviser effect
securities transactions may be useful to the Adviser in providing services to
the Fund.
The Directors review from time to time whether the recapture for the
benefit of the Fund of some portion of the brokerage commissions or similar fees
paid by the Fund on portfolio transactions is legally permissible and advisable.
For the fiscal years ended June 30, 1999, 1998 and 1997, The Fund paid no
brokerage commissions.
Portfolio Turnover
Average annual portfolio turnover rate is the ratio of the lesser of sales
or purchases to the monthly average value of the portfolio securities owned
during the year, excluding from both the numerator and the denominator all
securities with maturities at the time of acquisition of one year or less.
The Fund's portfolio turnover rate for each of the fiscal years ended June
30, 1999, 1998 and 1997 was 193.7%, 190.1% and 298.2%, respectively. For the
four months ended October 31, 1998 it was 303.5% (annualized). Recent economic
and market conditions necessitated more active trading, resulting in the higher
portfolio turnover rates. A higher rate involves greater transaction expenses to
the Fund and may result in the realization of net capital gains, which would be
taxable to shareholders when distributed. Purchases and sales are made for the
Fund's portfolio whenever necessary, in management's opinion, to meet the Fund's
objectives.
NET ASSET VALUE
The net asset value of shares of the Fund is computed as of the close of
regular trading on the Exchange on each day the Exchange is open for trading
(the "Value Time"). The Exchange is scheduled to be closed on the following
holidays: New Year's Day, Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good
Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas,
and on the preceding Friday or subsequent Monday when one of these holidays
falls on a Saturday or Sunday, respectively. Net asset value per share is
determined by dividing the value of the total assets of the Fund, less all
liabilities, by the total number of shares outstanding.
An exchange-traded equity security is valued at its most recent sale price
on the exchange it is traded as of the Value Time. Lacking any sales, the
security is valued at the calculated mean between the most recent bid quotation
and the most recent asked quotation (the "Calculated Mean") on such exchange as
of the Value Time. Lacking a Calculated Mean quotation the security is valued at
the most recent bid quotation on such exchange as of the Value Time. An equity
security which is traded on the National Association of Securities Dealers
Automated Quotation ("Nasdaq") system will be valued at its most recent sale
price on such system as of the Value Time. Lacking any sales, the security will
be valued at the most recent bid quotation as of the Value Time. The value of an
equity security not quoted on the Nasdaq system, but traded in another
over-the-counter market, is its most recent sale price if there are any sales of
such security on such market as of the Value Time. Lacking any sales, the
security is valued at the Calculated Mean quotation for such security as of the
Value Time. Lacking a Calculated Mean quotation the security is valued at the
most recent bid quotation as of the Value Time.
Debt securities, other than money market instruments, are valued at prices
supplied by the Fund's pricing agent(s) which reflect broker/dealer supplied
valuations and electronic data processing techniques. Money market instruments
with an original maturity of sixty days or less maturing at par shall be valued
at amortized cost, which the Board believes approximates market value. If it is
not possible to value a particular debt security pursuant to these valuation
methods, the value of such security is the most recent bid quotation supplied by
a bona fide marketmaker. If it
53
<PAGE>
is not possible to value a particular debt security pursuant to the above
methods, the Adviser may calculate the price of that debt security, subject to
limitations established by the Board.
An exchange traded options contract on securities, currencies, futures and
other financial instruments is valued at its most recent sale price on such
exchange. Lacking any sales, the options contract is valued at the Calculated
Mean. Lacking any Calculated Mean, the options contract is valued at the most
recent bid quotation in the case of a purchased options contract, or the most
recent asked quotation in the case of a written options contract. An options
contract on securities, currencies and other financial instruments traded
over-the-counter is valued at the most recent bid quotation in the case of a
purchased options contract and at the most recent asked quotation in the case of
a written options contract. Futures contracts are valued at the most recent
settlement price. Foreign currency exchange forward contracts are valued at the
value of the underlying currency at the prevailing exchange rate.
If a security is traded on more than one exchange, or upon one or more
exchanges and in the over-the-counter market, quotations are taken from the
market in which the security is traded most extensively.
If, in the opinion of the Fund's Valuation Committee, the value of a
portfolio asset as determined in accordance with these procedures does not
represent the fair market value of the portfolio asset, the value of the
portfolio asset is taken to be an amount which, in the opinion of the Valuation
Committee, represents fair market value on the basis of all available
information. The value of other portfolio holdings owned by the Fund is
determined in a manner which, in the discretion of the Valuation Committee most
fairly reflects fair market value of the property on the valuation date.
Following the valuations of securities or other portfolio assets in terms
of the currency in which the market quotation used is expressed ("Local
Currency"), the value of these portfolio assets in terms of U.S. dollars is
calculated by converting the Local Currency into U.S. dollars at the prevailing
currency exchange rate on the valuation date.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Experts
The Financial highlights of the Fund included in the Fun'ds prospectus and
the Financial Statements incorporated by reference in this Statement of
Additional Information have been so included or incorporated by reference in
reliance on the report of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, 160 Federal Street,
Boston, Massachusetts 02110, independent accountants, and given on the authority
of that firm as experts in accounting and auditing. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
audits the financial statements of the Fund and provides other audit, tax, and
related services.
Other Information
Many of the investment changes in the Fund will be made at prices different
from those prevailing at the time they may be reflected in a regular report to
shareholders of the Fund. These transactions will reflect investment decisions
made by the Adviser in the light of the objectives and policies of the Fund, and
such factors as its other portfolio holdings and tax considerations and should
not be construed as recommendations for similar action by other investors.
The CUSIP number of the Fund is 378947-30-3.
The Fund has a fiscal year end of October 31.
The law firm of Dechert Price & Rhoads is counsel for the Fund.
The Corporation employs Brown Brothers Harriman and Co., 40 Water Street,
Boston, Massachusetts 02109 as Custodian for the Fund. Brown Brothers Harriman
and Co. have entered into agreements with foreign subcustodians approved by the
Directors of the Corporation pursuant to Rule 17f-5 of the 1940 Act.
54
<PAGE>
Scudder Fund Accounting Corporation
Scudder Fund Accounting Corporation ("SFAC"), Two International Place,
Boston, Massachusetts, 02210-4103, a subsidiary of the Adviser, computes net
asset value for the Fund. The Fund pays Scudder Fund Accounting Corporation an
annual fee equal to 0.08% of the first $150 million of average net assets, 0.06%
of such assets in excess of $150 million and 0.04% of such assets in excess of
$1 billion.
For the fiscal years ended June 30, 1997, 1998 and 1999, SFAC charged The
Fund aggregate fees of $285,933, $154,342 and $114,645, respectively, of which
$21,295 and $17,386 was unpaid on October 31, 1998 and 1999, respectively. For
the four months ended October 31, 1998, the Fund incurred fees of $42,020.
Scudder Service Corporation
Scudder Service Corporation ("SSC"), P.O. Box 2291, Boston, Massachusetts
02107-2291, a subsidiary of the Adviser, is the transfer, dividend-paying and
shareholder service agent for the Fund. The Fund pays SSC an annual fee of
$25.00 for each account maintained for a participant.
For the fiscal year ended June 30, 1998, SSC charged The Fund aggregate
fees of $462,449. For the four months ended October 31, 1998, and the fiscal
year ended October 31, 1999, The Fund incurred fees of $119,561 and $315,573,
respectively, of which $29,578 and $46,673 was unpaid at October 31, 1998 and
1999, respectively.
Scudder Trust Company
Scudder Trust Company ("STC"), an affiliate of the Adviser, provides
subaccounting and recordkeeping services for shareholder accounts in certain
retirement and employee benefit plans. Annual service fees are paid by the Fund
to STC, Two International Place, Boston, Massachusetts 02110-4103 for such
accounts. The Fund pays STC an annual fee of $29.00 per shareholder account.
For the fiscal year ended June 30, 1998, the Fund incurred fees of $80,418.
For the four months ended October 31, 1998, and the fiscal year ended October
31, 1999, The Fund incurred fees of $25,953 and $78,041, of which $6,499 and
$18,815 was unpaid at October 31, 1998 and 1999, respectively.
The Directors of the Corporation have considered the appropriateness of
using this Statement of Additional Information for the Fund. There is a
possibility that the Fund might become liable for any misstatement, inaccuracy,
or incomplete disclosure in this Statement of Additional Information concerning
the other Fund.
The Fund, or the Adviser (including any affiliate of the Adviser), or both,
may pay unaffiliated third parties for providing recordkeeping and other
administrative services with respect to accounts of participants in retirement
plans or other beneficial owners of Fund shares whose interests are held in an
omnibus account.
The Fund's prospectus and this Statement of Additional Information omit
certain information contained in the Registration Statement which the
Corporation has filed with the SEC under the Securities Act of 1933 and
reference is hereby made to the Registration Statement for further information
with respect to the Fund and the securities offered hereby. This Registration
Statement is available for inspection by the public at the SEC in Washington,
D.C.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The financial statements, including the Investment Portfolio of The Fund,
together with the Report of Independent Accountants, Financial Highlights and
notes to financial statements, are incorporated by reference and attached hereto
in the Annual Report to Shareholders of the Fund dated October 31, 1999, and are
hereby deemed to be part of this Statement of Additional Information.
55
<PAGE>
APPENDIX
The following is a description of the ratings given by Moody's and S&P to
corporate and municipal bonds.
Ratings of Municipal and Corporate Bonds
S&P:
Debt rated AAA has the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poor's.
Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong. Debt rated AA
has a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal and differs from
the highest rated issues only in small degree. Debt rated A has a strong
capacity to pay interest and repay principal although it is somewhat more
susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic
conditions than debt in higher rated categories. Debt rated BBB is regarded as
having an adequate capacity to pay interest and repay principal. Whereas it
normally exhibits adequate protection parameters, adverse economic conditions or
changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay
interest and repay principal for debt in this category than in higher rated
categories.
Debt rated BB, B, CCC, CC and C is regarded as having predominantly
speculative characteristics with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay
principal. BB indicates the least degree of speculation and C the highest. While
such debt will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these
are outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposures to adverse conditions.
Debt rated BB has less near-term vulnerability to default than other
speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to
adverse business, financial, or economic conditions which could lead to
inadequate capacity to meet timely interest and principal payments. The BB
rating category is also used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is
assigned an actual or implied BBB- rating. Debt rated B has a greater
vulnerability to default but currently has the capacity to meet interest
payments and principal repayments. Adverse business, financial, or economic
conditions will likely impair capacity or willingness to pay interest and repay
principal. The B rating category is also used for debt subordinated to senior
debt that is assigned an actual or implied BB or BB- rating.
Debt rated CCC has a currently identifiable vulnerability to default, and
is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions to meet
timely payment of interest and repayment of principal. In the event of adverse
business, financial, or economic conditions, it is not likely to have the
capacity to pay interest and repay principal. The CCC rating category is also
used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied
B or B- rating. The rating CC typically is applied to debt subordinated to
senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied CCC rating. The rating C
typically is applied to debt subordinated to senior debt which is assigned an
actual or implied CCC- debt rating. The C rating may be used to cover a
situation where a bankruptcy petition has been filed, but debt service payments
are continued. The rating C1 is reserved for income bonds on which no interest
is being paid. Debt rated D is in payment default. The D rating category is used
when interest payments or principal payments are not made on the date due even
if the applicable grace period had not expired, unless S&P believes that such
payments will be made during such grace period. The D rating also will be used
upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition if debt service payments are
jeopardized.
Moody's:
Bonds, which are rated Aaa, are judged to be of the best quality. They
carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as
"gilt edge." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally
stable margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are
likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair
the fundamentally strong position of such issues. Bonds, which are rated Aa, are
judged to be of high quality by all standards. Together with the Aaa group they
comprise what are generally known as high grade bonds. They are rated lower than
the best bonds because margins of protection may not be as large as in Aaa
securities or fluctuation of protective elements may be of greater amplitude or
there may be other elements present which make the long term risks appear
somewhat larger than in Aaa securities. Bonds which are rated A possess many
favorable investment attributes and are to be considered as upper medium grade
obligations. Factors giving security to principal and interest are considered
adequate but elements may be present which suggest a susceptibility to
impairment sometime in the future.
<PAGE>
Bonds, which are rated Baa, are considered as medium grade obligations,
i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments
and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in
fact have speculative characteristics as well. Bonds, which are rated Ba, are
judged to have speculative elements; their future cannot be considered as well
assured. Often the protection of interest and principal payments may be very
moderate and thereby not well safeguarded during other good and bad times over
the future. Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class. Bonds,
which are rated B generally, lack characteristics of the desirable investment.
Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of other terms of
the contract over any long period of time may be small.
Bonds, which are rated Caa, are of poor standing. Such issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal or
interest. Bonds, which are rated Ca, represent obligations that are speculative
in a high degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked
shortcomings. Bonds which are rated C are the lowest rated class of bonds and
issues so rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever
attaining any real investment standing.
57
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Item 23 Exhibits:
<S> <C> <C> <C>
a. (1) Articles of Amendment and Restatement, dated December 13, 1990, is
incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 8 to the
Registration Statement.
(2) Articles of Amendment, dated December 29, 1997, is incorporated by
reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 34 to the Registration
Statement.
(3) Articles of Amendment, dated May 29, 1998, is incorporated by
reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 34 to the Registration
Statement.
(4) Articles Supplementary, dated February 14, 1991, is incorporated
by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 9 to the Registration
Statement.
(5) Articles Supplementary, dated July 11, 1991, is incorporated by
reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 12 to the Registration
Statement.
(6) Articles Supplementary, dated November 24, 1992, is incorporated
by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 18 to the Registration
Statement.
(7) Articles Supplementary, dated October 20, 1993, is incorporated
by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 19 to the Registration
Statement.
(8) Articles Supplementary, dated December 14, 1995, is incorporated
by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 26 to the Registration
Statement.
(9) Articles Supplementary, dated March 6, 1996, is incorporated
by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28 to the Registration
Statement.
(10) Articles Supplementary, dated April 15, 1998 is incorporated
by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 34 to the Registration
Statement.
b. (1) By-Laws, dated May 15, 1986, are incorporated by reference
to the original Registration Statement.
(2) Amendment, dated May 4, 1987, to the By-Laws is incorporated by
reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Registration
Statement.
(3) Amendment to the By-Laws, dated September 14, 1987, is
incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to the
Registration Statement.
(4) Amendment to the By-Laws, dated July 27, 1988, is incorporated
3
<PAGE>
by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to the Registration
Statement.
(5) Amendment to the By-Laws, dated September 15, 1989, is incorporated
by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 7 to the Registration
Statement.
(6) Amended and Restated By-Laws, dated March 4, 1991, are
incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 12 to the
Registration Statement.
(7) Amendment to the By-Laws, dated September 20, 1991, is incorporated
by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 15 to the Registration
Statement.
(8) Amendment to the By-Laws, dated December 12, 1991, is incorporated
by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 23 to the
Registration Statement.
(9) Amendment to the By-Laws, dated October 1, 1996, is incorporated by
reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 27 to the Registration
Statement.
(10) Amendment to the By-Laws, dated December 3, 1997, is incorporated
by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 34 to the Registration
Statement.
(11) Amendent to the By-Laws, dated February 7, 2000; filed herein.
c. (1) Specimen Share Certificate representing shares of capital stock of
$.01 par value of Scudder Global Fund is incorporated by reference
to Post-Effective Amendment No. 6 to the Registration Statement.
(2) Specimen Share Certificate representing shares of capital stock of
$.01 par value of Scudder International Bond Fund is incorporated
by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 6 to the Registration
Statement.
d. (1) Investment Management Agreement between the Registrant (on behalf
of Scudder Global Fund) and Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. dated
September 7, 1998 is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 36 to the Registration Statement.
(2) Investment Management Agreement between the Registrant (on behalf
of Scudder International Bond Fund) and Scudder Kemper Investments,
Inc., dated September 7, 1998, is incorporated by reference to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 36 to the Registration Statement.
(3) Investment Management Agreement between the Registrant (on behalf
of Scudder Global Bond Fund) and Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc.,
dated September 7, 1998, is incorporated by reference to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 36 to the Registration Statement.
4
<PAGE>
(4) Investment Management Agreement between the Registrant (on behalf
of Scudder Global Discovery Fund) and Scudder Kemper Investments,
Inc., dated September 7, 1998, is incorporated by reference to Post
Effective Amendment No. 36 to the Registration Statement.
(5) Investment Management Agreement between the Registrant (on behalf
of Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund) and Scudder Kemper
Investments, Inc., dated September 7, 1998 is incorporated by
reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 36 to the Registration
Statement.
e. (1) Underwriting Agreement between the Registrant and Scudder Investor
Services, Inc., dated September 7, 1998, is incorporated by
reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 36 to the Registration
Statement.
(2) Underwriting and Distribution Services Agreement between the
Registrant (on behalf of Global Discovery Fund) and Kemper
Distributors, Inc., dated August 6, 1998 incorporated by reference
to Post Effective Amendment 36 to the Registration Statement.
(3) Underwriting and Distribution Services Agreement between the
Registrant, (on behalf of Global Discovery Fund) and Kemper
Distributors, Inc., dated September 7, 1998, is incorporated by
reference to Post Effective Amendment No. 37 to the Registration
Statement.
f. Inapplicable.
g. (1) Custodian Agreement between the Registrant and State Street Bank
and Trust Company, dated July 24, 1986, is incorporated by
reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration
Statement.
(2) Fee schedule for Exhibit (g)(1) is incorporated by reference to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 4 to the Registration Statement.
(3) Custodian Agreement between the Registrant (on behalf of Scudder
International Bond Fund) and Brown Brothers Harriman & Co., dated
July 1, 1988, is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 5 to the Registration Statement.
(4) Fee schedule for Exhibit 8(g)(3) is incorporated by reference to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to the Registration Statement.
(5) Amendment, dated September 16, 1988, to the Custodian Contract
between the Registrant and State Street Bank and Trust Company
dated July 24, 1986 is Incorporated by reference to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 6 to the Registration Statement.
(6) Amendment, dated December 7, 1988, to the Custodian Contract
between the Registrant and State Street Bank and Trust Company
dated July 24, 1986 is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 6 to the Registration Statement.
5
<PAGE>
(7) Amendment, dated November 30, 1990, to the Custodian Contract
between the Registrant and State Street Bank and Trust Company,
dated July 24, 1986, is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 10 to the Registration Statement.
(8) Custodian Agreement between the Registrant (on behalf of Scudder
Short Term Global Income Fund) and Brown Brothers Harriman & Co.,
dated February 28, 1991, is incorporated by reference to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 15 to the Registration Statement.
(9) Custodian Agreement between the Registrant (on behalf of Scudder
Global Small Company Fund) and Brown Brothers Harriman & Co., dated
August 30, 1991, is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 16 to the Registration Statement.
(10) Custodian Agreement between the Registrant (on behalf of Scudder
Emerging Markets Income Fund) and Brown Brothers Harriman & Co.,
dated December 31, 1993, is incorporated by reference to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 23 to the Registration Statement.
(11) Amendment (on behalf of Scudder Global Fund) dated October 3, 1995
to the Custodian Agreement between the Registrant and Brown
Brothers Harriman & Co., dated March 7, 1995, is incorporated by
reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 24 to the Registration
Statement.
(12) Amendment, dated September 29, 1997, to the Custodian Contract
between the Registrant and Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. dated,
March 7, 1995, is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 32 to the Registration Statement.
(13) Amendment (on behalf of Scudder International Bond Fund), dated
April 16, 1998, to the Custodian Agreement between the Registrant
and Brown Brothers Harriman & Co., dated March 7, 1995, is
incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 34 to the
Registration Statement.
(14) Amendment (on behalf of Scudder Global Discovery Fund), dated April
16, 1998, to the Custodian Agreement between the Registrant and
Brown Brothers Harriman & Co., dated March 7, 1998, is incorporated
by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 34 to the Registration
Statement.
(15) Amendment (on behalf of Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund),
dated June 17, 1998, to the Custodian Agreement between the
Registrant and Brown Brothers Harriman & Co., dated March 7, 1995,
is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 34 to
the Registration Statement.
h. (1) Transfer Agency and Service Agreement between the Registrant and
Scudder Service Corporation, dated October 2, 1989, is incorporated
by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 7 to the Registration
Statement.
6
<PAGE>
(2) Revised fee schedule dated October 1, 1996 for Exhibit 9(a)(1) is
incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28 to the
Registration Statement.
(3) Agency agreement between the Registrant, (on behalf of Global
Discovery Fund) and Kemper Service Company, dated April 16,1998, is
incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 35 to the
Registration Statement.
(4) COMPASS Service Agreement between Scudder Trust Company and the
Registrant, dated October 1, 1995, is incorporated by reference to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 26 to the Registration Statement.
(5) Revised fee schedule, dated October 1, 1996, for Exhibit 9(b)(4) is
incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28 to the
Registration Statement.
(6) Shareholder Services Agreement with Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.,
dated June 1, 1990, is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 7 to the Registration Statement.
(7) Service Agreement between Copeland Associates, Inc. and Scudder
Service Corporation (on behalf of Scudder Global Fund and Scudder
Global Small Company Fund), dated June 8, 1995, is incorporated by
reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 24 to the Registration
Statement.
(8) Administrative Services Agreement between McGladvey & Pullen, Inc.
and the Registrant, dated September 30, 1995, is incorporated by
reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 26 to the Registration
Statement.
(9) Administrative Services Agreement between the Registrant (on behalf
of Global Discovery Fund) and Kemper Distributors, Inc., dated
April 16, 1998, is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 34 to the Registration Statement.
(10) Fund Accounting Services Agreement between the Registrant (on
behalf of Scudder Global Fund) and Scudder Fund Accounting
Corporation, dated March 14, 1995, is incorporated by reference to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 24 to the Registration Statement.
(11) Fund Accounting Services Agreement between the Registrant (on
behalf of Scudder International Bond Fund) and Scudder Fund
Accounting Corporation, dated August 3, 1995, is incorporated by
reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 25 to the Registration
Statement.
(12) Fund Accounting Services Agreement between the Registrant (on
behalf of Scudder Global Small Company Fund) and Scudder Fund
Accounting Corporation, dated June 15, 1995, is incorporated by
reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 25 to the Registration
Statement.
7
<PAGE>
(13) Fund Accounting Services Agreement between the Registrant (on
behalf of Scudder Global Bond Fund (formerly Scudder Short Term
Global Income Fund)) and Scudder Fund Accounting Corporation, dated
November 29, 1995, is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 26 to the Registration Statement.
(14) Fund Accounting Services Agreement between the Registrant (on
behalf of Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund) and Scudder Fund
Accounting Corporation, dated February 1, 1996, is incorporated by
reference to Post-Effective Amendment No. 27 to the Registration
Statement.
i Opinion of Counsel; filed herein.
j. Report of Independent Accountants; filed herein.
k. Inapplicable.
l. Inapplicable.
m. (1) Amended and Restated Rule 12b-1 Plan for Global Discovery Fund
Class B Shares, dated August 6, 1998, is incorporated by reference
to Post Effective Amendment No. 36 to the Registration Statement.
(2) Amended and Restated Rule 12b-1 Plan for Global Discovery Fund
Class C Shares dated August 6, 1998 is incorporated by reference to
Post Effective Amendment No. 36 to the Registration Statement.
n. Inapplicable.
o. Mutual Funds Multi-Distribution System Plan pursuant to Rule
18f-3 is incorporated by reference to Post-Effective Amendment No.
33 to the Registration Statement.
</TABLE>
Item 24. Persons Controlled by or under Common Control with Registrant
- -------- -------------------------------------------------------------
None
Item 25. Indemnification.
- -------- ----------------
A policy of insurance covering Scudder Kemper Investments,
Inc., its subsidiaries including Scudder Investor Services,
Inc., and all of the registered investment companies advised
by Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. insures the Registrant's
Directors and officers and others against liability arising by
reason of an alleged breach of duty caused by any negligent
error or accidental omission in the scope of their duties.
Article Tenth of Registrant's Articles of Incorporation state as
follows:
TENTH: Liability and Indemnification
- ------ -----------------------------
To the fullest extent permitted by the Maryland General Corporation Law
and the Investment Company Act of 1940, no director or officer of the
Corporation shall be liable to the Corporation or to its stockholders for
damages. This limitation on liability applies to events occurring at the time a
person serves as a director or officer of the Corporation, whether or not such
person is a director or officer at the time of any proceeding in which liability
is asserted. No amendment to these Articles of Amendment and Restatement or
repeal of any of its
8
<PAGE>
provisions shall limit or eliminate the benefits provided to directors and
officers under this provision with respect to any act or omission which occurred
prior to such amendment or repeal.
The Corporation, including its successors and assigns, shall indemnify
its directors and officers and make advance payment of related expenses to the
fullest extent permitted, and in accordance with the procedures required by
Maryland law, including Section 2-418 of the Maryland General Corporation Law,
as may be amended from time to time, and the Investment Company Act of 1940. The
By-laws may provide that the Corporation shall indemnify its employees and/or
agents in any manner and within such limits as permitted by applicable law. Such
indemnification shall be in addition to any other right or claim to which any
director, officer, employee or agent may otherwise be entitled.
The Corporation may purchase and maintain insurance on behalf of any
person who is or was a director, officer, employee or agent of the Corporation
or is or was serving at the request of the Corporation as a director, officer,
partner, trustee, employee or agent of another foreign or domestic corporation,
partnership, joint venture, trust or other enterprise or employee benefit plan
against any liability asserted against and incurred by such person in any such
capacity or arising out of such person's position, whether or not the
Corporation would have had the power to indemnify against such liability.
The rights provided to any person by this Article shall be enforceable
against the Corporation by such person who shall be presumed to have relied upon
such rights in serving or continuing to serve in the capacities indicated
herein. No amendment of these Articles of Amendment and Restatement shall impair
the rights of any person arising at any time with respect to events occurring
prior to such amendment.
Nothing in these Articles of Amendment and Restatement shall be deemed
to (i) require a waiver of compliance with any provision of the Securities Act
of 1933, as amended, or the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, or of
any valid rule, regulation or order of the Securities and Exchange Commission
under those Acts or (ii) protect any director or officer of the Corporation
against any liability to the Corporation or its stockholders to which he would
otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross
negligence in the performance of his or her duties or by reason of his or her
reckless disregard of his or her obligations and duties hereunder.
Item 26. Business or Other Connections of Investment Adviser
- -------- ---------------------------------------------------
Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc. has stockholders and
employees who are denominated officers but do not as such have
corporation-wide responsibilities. Such persons are not
considered officers for the purpose of this Item 28.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Business and Other Connections of Board
Name of Directors of Registrant's Adviser
---- ------------------------------------
<S> <C>
Stephen R. Beckwith Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer, Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc.**
Vice President and Treasurer, Scudder Fund Accounting Corporation*
Director, Scudder Stevens & Clark Corporation**
Director and Chairman, Scudder Defined Contribution Services, Inc.**
Director and President, Scudder Capital Asset Corporation**
Director and President, Scudder Capital Stock Corporation**
Director and President, Scudder Capital Planning Corporation**
Director and President, SS&C Investment Corporation**
Director and President, SIS Investment Corporation**
Director and President, SRV Investment Corporation**
Lynn S. Birdsong Director and Vice President, Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc.**
Director, Scudder, Stevens & Clark (Luxembourg) S.A.#
Laurence W. Cheng Director, Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc.**
Member, Corporate Executive Board, Zurich Insurance Company of Switzerland##
9
<PAGE>
Director, ZKI Holding Corporation xx
Rolf Huppi Director, Chairman of the Board, Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc.**
Member, Corporate Executive Board, Zurich Insurance Company of Switzerland##
Director, Chairman of the Board, Zurich Holding Company of America o
Director, ZKI Holding Corporation xx
Kathryn L. Quirk Chief Legal Officer, Chief Compliance Officer and Secretary, Scudder Kemper
Investments, Inc.**
Director, Senior Vice President & Assistant Clerk, Scudder Investor Services, Inc.*
Director, Vice President & Secretary, Scudder Fund Accounting Corporation*
Director, Vice President & Secretary, Scudder Realty Holdings Corporation*
Director & Assistant Clerk, Scudder Service Corporation*
Director, SFA, Inc.*
Vice President, Director & Assistant Secretary, Scudder Precious Metals, Inc.***
Director, Scudder, Stevens & Clark Japan, Inc.***
Director, Vice President and Secretary, Scudder, Stevens & Clark of Canada, Ltd.***
Director, Vice President and Secretary, Scudder Canada Investor Services Limited***
Director, Vice President and Secretary, Scudder Realty Advisers, Inc. x
Director and Secretary, Scudder, Stevens & Clark Corporation**
Director and Secretary, Scudder, Stevens & Clark Overseas Corporation oo
Director and Secretary, SFA, Inc.*
Director, Vice President and Secretary, Scudder Defined Contribution Services, Inc.**
Director, Vice President and Secretary, Scudder Capital Asset Corporation**
Director, Vice President and Secretary, Scudder Capital Stock Corporation**
Director, Vice President and Secretary, Scudder Capital Planning Corporation**
Director, Vice President and Secretary, SS&C Investment Corporation**
Director, Vice President and Secretary, SIS Investment Corporation**
Director, Vice President and Secretary, SRV Investment Corporation**
Director, Vice President and Secretary, Scudder Financial Services, Inc.*
Director, Korea Bond Fund Management Co., Ltd.+
Cornelia M. Small Director and Vice President, Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc.**
Edmond D. Villani Director, President and Chief Executive Officer, Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc.**
Director, Scudder, Stevens & Clark Japan, Inc.###
President and Director, Scudder, Stevens & Clark Overseas Corporation oo
President and Director, Scudder, Stevens & Clark Corporation**
Director, Scudder Realty Advisors, Inc.x
Director, IBJ Global Investment Management S.A. Luxembourg, Grand-Duchy of Luxembourg
</TABLE>
* Two International Place, Boston, MA
x 333 South Hope Street, Los Angeles, CA
** 345 Park Avenue, New York, NY
# Societe Anonyme, 47, Boulevard Royal, L-2449 Luxembourg,
R.C. Luxembourg B 34.564
*** Toronto, Ontario, Canada
xxx Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands, British West Indies
oo 20-5, Ichibancho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
### 1-7, Kojimachi, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, Japan
xx 222 S. Riverside, Chicago, IL
o Zurich Towers, 1400 American Ln., Schaumburg, IL
+ P.O. Box 309, Upland House, S. Church St., Grand Cayman,
British West Indies
## Mythenquai-2, P.O. Box CH-8022, Zurich, Switzerland
10
<PAGE>
Item 27. Principal Underwriters.
- -------- -----------------------
(a)
Scudder Investor Services, Inc. acts as principal underwriter of the
Registrant's shares and also acts as principal underwriter for other
funds managed by Scudder Kemper Investments, Inc.
11
<PAGE>
(b)
The Underwriter has employees who are denominated officers of an
operational area. Such persons do not have corporation-wide
responsibilities and are not considered officers for the purpose of
this Item 27.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(1) (2) (3)
Name and Principal Position and Offices with Positions and
Business Address Scudder Investor Services, Inc. Offices with Registrant
---------------- ------------------------------- -----------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Lynn S. Birdsong Senior Vice President None
345 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10154
Mary Elizabeth Beams Vice President None
Two International Place
Boston, MA 02110
Mark S. Casady Director, President and Assistant None
Two International Place Treasurer
Boston, MA 02110
Linda Coughlin Director and Senior Vice President None
Two International Place
Boston, MA 02110
Richard W. Desmond Vice President None
345 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10154
Paul J. Elmlinger Senior Vice President and Assistant None
345 Park Avenue Clerk
New York, NY 10154
Philip S. Fortuna Vice President None
101 California Street
San Francisco, CA 94111
12
<PAGE>
Name and Principal Position and Offices with Positions and
Business Address Scudder Investor Services, Inc. Offices with Registrant
---------------- ------------------------------- -----------------------
William F. Glavin Vice President None
Two International Place
Boston, MA 02110
Margaret D. Hadzima Assistant Treasurer None
Two International Place
Boston, MA 02110
James J. McGovern Chief Financial Officer None
345 Park Avenue
New York, NY 10154
Lorie C. O'Malley Vice President None
Two International Place
Boston, MA 02110
Kathryn L. Quirk Director, Senior Vice President, Chief Director, Vice President
345 Park Avenue Legal Officer and Assistant Clerk and Assistant Secretary
New York, NY 10154
Robert A. Rudell Director and Vice President None
Two International Place
Boston, MA 02110
William M. Thomas Vice President None
Two International Place
Boston, MA 02110
Benjamin Thorndike Vice President None
Two International Place
Boston, MA 02110
Sydney S. Tucker Vice President None
Two International Place
Boston, MA 02110
Linda J. Wondrack Vice President and Chief Compliance None
Two International Place Officer
Boston, MA 02110
David B. Watts Assistant Treasurer None
Two International Place
Boston, MA 02110
</TABLE>
13
<PAGE>
(c)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(1) (2) (3) (4) (5)
Net Underwriting Compensation on
Name of Principal Discounts and Redemptions Brokerage Other
Underwriter Commissions and Repurchases Commissions Compensation
----------- ----------- --------------- ----------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Scudder Investor None None None None
Services, Inc.
</TABLE>
(d)
Kemper Distributors, Inc. acts as principal underwriters of the
Registrant's shares (on behalf of Global Discovery Fund - Class A,
Class B and Class C Shares) and acts as principal underwriters of the
Kemper Funds.
14
<PAGE>
(e)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
(1) (2) (3)
Name and Principal Position and Offices with Positions and
Business Address Scudder Investor Services, Inc. Offices with Registrant
---------------- ------------------------------- -----------------------
<S> <C> <C>
James L. Greenawalt President None
Thomas W.Littauer Director, Chief Executive Officer None
Kathryn L. Quirk Director, Secretary, Chief Legal Officer & Vice Vice President
President
James J. McGovern Chief Financial Officer & Vice President None
Linda J. Wondrack Vice President & Chief Compliance Officer None
Paula Gaccione Vice President None
Michael E. Harrington Vice President None
Robert A. Rudell Vice President None
William M. Thomas Vice President None
Elizabeth C. Werth Vice President None
Todd N. Gierke Vice President None
Phillip J. Collora Assistant Secretary None
Paul J. Elmlinger Assistant Secretary None
Diane E. Ratekin Assistant Secretary None
Mark S. Casady Director, Vice Chairman None
Stephen R. Beckwith Director None
</TABLE>
Item 28. Location of Accounts and Records.
- -------- ---------------------------------
Certain accounts, books and other documents required to be
maintained by Section 31(a) of the 1940 Act and the Rules
promulgated thereunder are maintained by Scudder Kemper
Investments, Inc., 345 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10154.
Records relating to the duties of the Registrant's custodian
(on behalf of Scudder Global Fund) are maintained by State
Street Bank and Trust Company, Heritage Drive, North Quincy,
Massachusetts. Records relating to the duties of the
Registrant's custodian (on behalf of Scudder International
Bond Fund, Scudder Short Term Global Income Fund, Scudder
Global Small Company Fund and Scudder Emerging Markets Income
Fund) are maintained by Brown Brothers Harriman & Co., 40
Water Street, Boston, Massachusetts.
15
<PAGE>
Item 29. Management Services.
- -------- --------------------
Inapplicable.
Item 30. Undertakings.
- -------- -------------
None.
16
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
----------
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the
Investment Company Act of 1940, the Registrant has duly caused this amendment to
its Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned,
thereto duly authorized, in the City of Boston and the Commonwealth of
Massachusetts on the 25th day of February, 2000.
GLOBAL/INTERNATIONAL FUND, INC.
By /s/John Millette
-------------------
John Millette
Vice President and Secretary
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
amendment to its Registration Statement has been signed below by the following
persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIGNATURE TITLE DATE
- --------- ----- ----
<S> <C> <C>
/s/Lynn Birdsong
- --------------------------------------
Lynn Birdsong* Chairman of the Board and Director February 25, 2000
/s/Paul Bancroft III
- --------------------------------------
Paul Bancroft III* Director February 25, 2000
/s/Sheryle J. Bolton
- --------------------------------------
Sheryle J. Bolton* Director February 25, 2000
/s/William T. Burgin
- --------------------------------------
William T. Burgin* Director February 25, 2000
/s/Keith R. Fox
- --------------------------------------
Keith R. Fox* Director February 25, 2000
/s/William H. Luers
- --------------------------------------
William H. Luers* Director February 25, 2000
/s/Kathryn L. Quirk
- --------------------------------------
Kathryn L. Quirk* Director February 25, 2000
/s/Joan E. Spero
- --------------------------------------
Joan E. Spero* Director February 25, 2000
<PAGE>
SIGNATURE TITLE DATE
- --------- ----- ----
/s/John R. Hebble
- -----------------------------
John R. Hebble Treasurer (Chief Financial Officer) February 25, 2000
</TABLE>
*By: /s/John Millette
------------------------------
John Millette
Attorney-in-fact, pursuant to powers of
attorney included with the signature pages
of Post-Effective Amendment No. 39 to the
Registration Statement, filed October 12,
1999.
2
<PAGE>
File No. 33-5724
File No. 811-4670
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
EXHIBITS
TO
FORM N-1A
POST-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 43
TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
AND
AMENDMENT NO. 46
TO REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940
GLOBAL/INTERNATIONAL FUND, INC.
<PAGE>
GLOBAL/INTERNATIONAL FUND, INC.
Exhibit Index
Exhibit (b)(11)
Exhibit (i)
Exhibit (j)
2
GLOBAL/INTERNATIONAL FUND, INC.
On February 7, 2000, the Board of Directors of Global/International
Fund, Inc. adopted the following amending the By-Laws of the corporation to read
as follows:
RESOLVED, that the first sentence of the second paragraph of
Article I, Section 8 of the Fund's By-Laws shall be amended to
read as follows (additions are underlined, and deletions are
struckout):
Section 8. Voting. Each stockholder entitled to vote at any
meeting of stockholders may authorize another person or
persons to act for him by a proxy signed by the stockholder or
his attorney-in-fact.
FURTHER RESOLVED, that Article I, Section 12 of the Fund's
By-Laws shall be added and read as follows:
Section 12. Proxy Instructions Transmitted by Telephonic or
Electronic Means. The placing of a Shareholder's name on a
proxy pursuant to telephonic or electronically transmitted
instructions obtained pursuant to procedures reasonably
designed to verify that such instructions have been authorized
by such Shareholder shall constitute the proxy of such
Shareholder.
Exhibit (i)
February 28, 2000
Global/International Fund, Inc.
345 Park Avenue
New York, New York 10154
Ladies and Gentlemen:
We have acted as special Maryland counsel to Global/International Fund,
Inc. (the "Company"), a corporation organized under the laws of the State of
Maryland on May 15, 1986. The Company is authorized to issue 800,000,000 shares
of capital stock, $0.01 par value per share (each a "Share" and collectively,
the "Shares"). The Shares have been classified into the following five series:
the Emerging Markets Income Fund, consisting of 100,000,000 Shares; the Global
Bond Fund, consisting of 300,000,000 Shares; the International Bond Fund,
consisting of 200,000,000 Shares; the Global Fund, consisting of 100,000,000
Shares; and the Global Discovery Fund, consisting of 100,000,000 Shares.
The Global Discovery Fund is further classified into four classes of
Shares as follows: 30,000,000 Scudder Shares, 40,000,000 Class A Shares,
20,000,000 Class B Shares and 10,000,000 Class C Shares.
We understand that you are about to file with the Securities and
Exchange Commission, on Form N-1A, Post Effective Amendment No. 43 to the
Company's Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended
(the "Securities Act"), and Amendment No. 46 to the Company's Registration
Statement under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Investment
Company Act") (collectively, the "Registration Statement"), in connection with
the continuous offering on and after March 1, 2000 of Shares of the Emerging
Markets Income Fund, the Global Bond Fund and the International Bond Fund, as
well as Scudder Shares, Class A Shares, Class B Shares and Class C Shares of the
Global Discovery Fund. We understand that our opinion is required to be filed as
an exhibit to the Registration Statement.
In rendering the opinions set forth below, we have examined originals
or copies, certified or otherwise identified to our satisfaction, of the
following documents:
(i) the Registration Statement;
(ii) the Charter and Bylaws of the Company;
(iii) a certificate of the Company regarding certain matters in
connection with this opinion (the "Certificate");
<PAGE>
Global/International Fund, Inc.
February 28, 2000
Page 2
(iv) a certificate of the Maryland State Department of Assessments and
Taxation dated February 23, 2000 to the effect that the Company is duly
incorporated and existing under the laws of the State of Maryland and is in good
standing and duly authorized to transact business in the State of Maryland (the
"Good Standing Certificate"); and
(v) such other documents and matters as we have deemed necessary and
appropriate to render this opinion, subject to the limitations, assumptions, and
qualifications contained herein.
As to any facts or questions of fact material to the opinions expressed
herein, we have relied exclusively upon the aforesaid documents and
certificates, and representations and declarations of the officers or other
representatives of the Company. We have made no independent investigation
whatsoever as to such factual matters.
In reaching the opinions set forth below, we have assumed, without
independent investigation or inquiry, that:
(a) all documents submitted to us as originals are authentic; all
documents submitted to us as certified or photostatic copies conform to the
original documents; all signatures on all documents submitted to us for
examination are genuine; and all documents and public records reviewed are
accurate and complete;
(b) all representations, warranties, certifications and statements with
respect to matters of fact and other factual information (i) made by public
officers or (ii) made by officers or representatives of the Company, including
certifications made in the Certificate, are accurate, true, correct and complete
in all material respects;
(c) at no time prior to and including the date when all of the Shares
of the Emerging Markets Income Fund are issued will (i) the Company's Charter,
Bylaws or the existing corporate authorization to issue such Shares be amended,
repealed or revoked; (ii) the total number of the issued Shares exceed
800,000,000; or (iii) the total number of the issued Shares of the Emerging
Markets Income Fund exceed 100,000,000;
(d) at no time prior to and including the date when all of the Shares
of the Global Bond Fund are issued will (i) the Company's Charter, Bylaws or the
existing corporate authorization to issue such Shares be amended, repealed or
revoked; (ii) the total number of the issued Shares exceed 800,000,000; or (iii)
the total number of the issued Shares of the Global Bond Fund exceed
300,000,000;
(e) at no time prior to and including the date when all of the Shares
of the International Bond Fund are issued will (i) the Company's Charter, Bylaws
or the existing corporate authorization to issue such Shares be amended,
repealed or revoked; (ii) the total number of the issued Shares exceed
800,000,000; or (iii) the total number of the issued Shares of the International
Bond Fund exceed 200,000,000; and
<PAGE>
Global/International Fund, Inc.
February 28, 2000
Page 3
(f) at no time prior to and including the date when all of the Shares
of the Scudder Shares class, the Class A Shares class, the Class B Shares class
and/or the Class C Shares class of the Global Discovery Fund are issued will (i)
the Company's Charter, Bylaws or the existing corporate authorization to issue
such Shares be amended, repealed or revoked; (ii) the total number of the issued
Shares exceed 800,000,000; (iii) the total number of the issued Shares of the
Global Discovery Fund exceed 100,000,000; (iv) the total number of issued Shares
of the Scudder Shares class of the Global Discovery Fund exceed 30,000,000; (v)
the total number of issued Shares of the Class A Shares class of the Global
Discovery Fund exceed 40,000,000; (vi) the total number of issued Shares of the
Class B Shares class of the Global Discovery Fund exceed 20,000,000; or (vii)
the total number of issued Shares of the Class C Shares class of the Global
Discovery Fund exceed 10,000,000.
Based on our review of the foregoing and subject to the assumptions and
qualifications set forth herein, it is our opinion that, as of the date of this
letter:
1. The Company is a corporation duly organized, validly existing and,
based solely on the Good Standing Certificate, in good standing under the laws
of the State of Maryland.
2. The issuance and sale of the Shares of the Emerging Markets Income
Fund pursuant to the Registration Statement has been duly and validly authorized
by all necessary corporate action on the part of the Company.
3. The issuance and sale of the Shares of the Global Bond Fund pursuant
to the Registration Statement has been duly and validly authorized by all
necessary corporate action on the part of the Company.
4. The issuance and sale of the Shares of the International Bond Fund
pursuant to the Registration Statement has been duly and validly authorized by
all necessary corporate action on the part of the Company.
5. The issuance and sale of the Shares of each of the Scudder Shares
class, the Class A Shares class, the Class B Shares class and the Class C Shares
class of the Global Discovery Fund pursuant to the Registration Statement has
been duly and validly authorized by all necessary corporate action on the part
of the Company.
6. The Shares of the Emerging Markets Income Fund, when issued and sold
by the Company for cash consideration pursuant to and in the manner contemplated
by the Registration Statement, will be legally and validly issued, fully paid
and non-assessable.
7. The Shares of the Global Bond Fund, when issued and sold by the
Company for cash consideration pursuant to and in the manner contemplated by the
Registration Statement, will be legally and validly issued, fully paid and
non-assessable.
<PAGE>
Global/International Fund, Inc.
February 28, 2000
Page 4
8. The Shares of the International Bond Fund, when issued and sold by
the Company for cash consideration pursuant to and in the manner contemplated by
the Registration Statement, will be legally and validly issued, fully paid and
non-assessable.
9. The Shares of each of the Scudder Shares class, the Class A Shares
class, the Class B Shares class and the Class C Shares class of the Global
Discovery Fund, when issued and sold by the Company for cash consideration
pursuant to and in the manner contemplated by the Registration Statement, will
be legally and validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable.
In addition to the qualifications set forth above, the opinions set
forth herein are also subject to the following qualifications:
We express no opinion as to compliance with the Securities Act, the
Investment Company Act or the securities laws of any state with respect to the
issuance of Shares of the Company. The opinions expressed herein concern only
the effect of the laws (excluding the principles of conflict of laws) of the
State of Maryland as currently in effect. We assume no obligation to supplement
this opinion if any applicable laws change after the date hereof, or if we
become aware of any facts that might change the opinions expressed herein after
the date hereof.
We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion as an exhibit to the
Registration 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
Act.
Sincerely yours,
/s/ Ober, Kaler, Grimes & Shriver,
a Professional Corporation
EXHIBIT (j)
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference into the Prospectuses and
Statements of Additional Information constituting the Post-Effective Amendment
No. 43 to the Registration Statement on Form N-1A (the "Registration Statement")
of Global/International Fund, Inc. comprised of Scudder Emerging Markets Income
Fund, Global Discovery Fund, Scudder Global Bond Fund, and Scudder International
Bond Fund, of our reports dated December 16, 1999, December 10, 1999, December
17, 1999, and, December 20, 1999, respectively, on the financial statements and
financial highlights appearing in the December 31, 1999 Annual Reports to the
Shareholders of Scudder Emerging Markets Income Fund, Global Discovery Fund,
Scudder Global Bond Fund, and Scudder International Bond Fund, which are also
incorporated by reference into the Registration Statement. We further consent to
the references to our Firm under the heading "Financial Highlights," in the
Prospectuses and "Experts" in the Statements of Additional Information.
/s/PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Boston, Massachusetts
February 25, 2000
