As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on December 30, 1998
File Nos.
33-9994
811-4894
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. 20 (X)
and/or
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940
Amendment No. 21 (X)
FRANKLIN MANAGED TRUST
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)
777 MARINERS ISLAND BLVD., SAN MATEO, CA 94404
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's Telephone Number, Including Area Code (650) 312-2000
HARMON E. BURNS, 777 MARINERS ISLAND BLVD., SAN MATEO, CA 94404
(Name and Address of Agent for Service of Process)
Approximate Date of Proposed Public Offering:
It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate box)
[ ] immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b)
[ ] on [date] pursuant to paragraph (b)
[ ] 60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)
[X] on February 1, 1999 pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)
[ ] 75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)
[ ] on [date] pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of rule 485
If appropriate, check the following box:
[ ] This post-effective amendment designates a new effective date for a
previously filed post-effective amendment
Title of Securities Being Registered:
Shares of Beneficial Interest of:
Franklin Rising Dividends Fund - Class A
Franklin Rising Dividends Fund - Class B
Franklin Rising Dividends Fund - Class C
Franklin Investment Grade Income Fund - Class A
Franklin Investment Grade Income Fund - Advisor Class
PROSPECTUS
FRANKLIN RISING DIVIDENDS FUND
Class A, B & C
INVESTMENT STRATEGY GROWTH & INCOME
FEBRUARY 1, 1999
[Insert Franklin Templeton Ben Head]
LIKE ALL MUTUAL FUND SHARES, THE SEC HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THESE
SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION
TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
CONTENTS
THE FUND
[Begin callout]
Information about the fund you should know before investing
[End callout]
[insert page #] Goal and Strategies
[insert page #] Main Risks
[insert page #] Performance
[insert page #] Fees and Expenses
[insert page #] Management
[insert page #] Distributions and Taxes
[insert page #] Financial Highlights
YOUR ACCOUNT
[Begin callout]
Information about sales charges, account transactions and services
[End callout]
[insert page #] Choosing a Share Class
[insert page #] Buying Shares
[insert page #] Investor Services
[insert page #] Selling Shares
[insert page #] Account Policies
[insert page #] Questions
FOR MORE INFORMATION
[Begin callout]
Where to learn more about the fund
[End callout]
Back Cover
THE FUND
[Insert graphic of bullseye and arrows]GOAL AND STRATEGIES
GOAL The fund's principal investment goal is long-term capital appreciation.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENTS The fund invests primarily in common stocks of
financially sound companies that have paid consistently rising dividends.
These are companies that have:
[Begin callout]
As a fundamental policy, the fund will normally invest at least 65% of total
assets in securities of companies that meet all of these criteria. The fund
invests the rest of its assets in equity securities of companies that pay
dividends but do not meet all of these criteria.
[End callout]
o consistently increased dividends in at least 8 out of the last 10 years
and have not decreased dividends during that time
o increased dividends substantially (at least 100%) over the past 10 years
o reinvested earnings, paying out less than 65% of current earnings in
dividends (except for utility companies)
o strong balance sheets, with long-term debt representing no more than 30%
of total capitalization (except for utility companies)
o attractive prices, either in the lower half of the stock's price/earnings
ratio range for the past 10 years or less than the current market
price/earnings ratio of the stocks comprising the Standard & Poor's(R) 500
Stock Index (this criterion applies only at the time of purchase)
The fund invests in equity securities issued by large-cap, mid-cap, and
small-cap U.S. companies. Large-cap companies generally have market
capitalization of $5 billion or more; mid-cap companies generally have market
capitalization of $1 to $5 billion; and small-cap companies generally have
market capitalization of less than $1 billion.
TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS The manager may take a temporary defensive position
when the securities trading markets or the economy are experiencing excessive
volatility or a prolonged general decline, or other adverse conditions exist.
Under these circumstances, the fund may be unable to pursue its investment
goals, because it may not invest or may invest less in securities of
companies that have paid consistently rising dividends.
[Insert graphic of chart with line going up and down] MAIN RISKS
[Begin callout]
Because the stocks the fund holds fluctuate in price, the value of your
investment in the fund will go up and down. This means you could lose money
over short or even extended periods.
[End callout]
STOCKS While stocks have historically outperformed other asset classes over
the long term, they tend to go up and down more dramatically over the shorter
term. These price movements may result from factors affecting individual
companies, industries or the securities market as a whole.
SMALL AND MID-SIZE COMPANIES Investing in stocks of small and mid-size
companies may involve greater risk than investing in larger company stocks.
Stocks of mid-size companies tend to involve less risk than stocks of smaller
companies.
Historically, small and mid-size company securities have been more volatile
in price than larger company securities, especially over the short-term.
Among the reasons for the greater price volatility are the less certain
growth prospects of smaller companies, the lower degree of liquidity in the
markets for such securities, and the greater sensitivity of smaller companies
to changing economic conditions.
Small and mid-size company stocks may fluctuate independently of larger
company stocks. Medium and small company stocks may decline in price as
large company stocks rise or vice versa.
In addition, these companies may lack depth of management, they may be unable
to generate funds necessary for growth or development, or they may be
developing or marketing new products or services for which markets are not
yet established and may never become established.
While smaller companies may offer greater opportunities for capital growth
than larger, more established companies, they also involve greater risks and
should be considered speculative.
YEAR 2000 When evaluating current and potential portfolio positions, Year
2000 is only one of the factors the fund's manager considers.
The manager will rely upon public filings and other statements made
by companies about their Year 2000 readiness. Issuers in countries
outside the U.S., particularly in emerging markets, may not be required to
make the same level of disclosure about Year 2000 readiness as is required in
the U.S. The manager, of course, cannot audit each company and its major
suppliers to verify their Year 2000 readiness.
If a company in which the fund is invested is adversely affected by Year 2000
problems, it is likely that the price of its security will also be adversely
affected. A decrease in the value of one or more of the fund's portfolio
holdings will have a similar impact on the price of the fund's shares. Please
see page [#] for more information.
More detailed information about the fund, its policies and risks can be found
in the fund's Statement of Additional Information (SAI).
[Begin callout]
Mutual fund shares are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed or
endorsed by, any bank, and are not federally insured by the Federal Deposit
Insurance Corporation, the Federal Reserve Board, or any other agency of the
U.S. government. Mutual fund shares involve investment risks, including the
possible loss of principal.
[End callout]
[Insert graphic of a bull and a bear] PERFORMANCE
This bar chart and table show the volatility of the fund's returns, which is
one indicator of the risks of investing in the fund. The bar chart shows
changes in the fund's returns from year to year over the past 10 calendar
years. The table shows how the fund's average annual total returns compare to
those of a broad-based securities market index. Of course, past performance
cannot predict or guarantee future results.
CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1
[Insert bar graph]
18.80% 19.60% 0.26% 35.95% 10.38% -3.49% -5.17% 30.25% 23.42% 32.35%
88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97
YEAR
[Begin callout]
Best Quarter:
Q1 '91 17.36%
Worst Quarter:
Q3 '90 -12.72%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1997
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Rising Dividends Fund - 24.72% 12.91% 14.65%
Class A 2
Wilshire MidCap Growth Index 3 20.13% 17.46% 16.86%
SINCE
INCEPTION
1 YEAR (5/1/95)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Rising Dividends Fund- 29.42% 27.54%
Class C 2
Wilshire MidCap Growth Index 3 20.13% 22.44%
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of September 30, 1998, the fund's year-to-date return was -10.97% for
Class A.
2. Figures reflect sales charges.
All fund performance assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. The Wilshire MidCap Growth Index is an unmanaged group of securities of
companies selected based on growth characteristics from among the middle
capitalization universe of the Wilshire 5000. One cannot invest directly in
an index, nor is an index representative of the fund's portfolio.
[Insert graphic of percentage sign] FEES AND EXPENSES
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and
hold shares of the fund. It is based on the fund's expenses for the fiscal
year ended September 30, 1998.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT)
Class A1 Class B2 Class C1
--------------------------------
Maximum sales charge (load) 5.75% 4.00% 1.99%
as a percentage of offering
price
Paid at time of purchase 5.75% None 1.00%
Paid at redemption None3 4.00% 0.99%4
Exchange fee5 None None None
Please see "Choosing a Share Class" on page # for an explanation of how and
when these sales charges apply.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES DEDUCTED FROM FUND ASSETS)
Class A1 Class B2 Class C1
--------------------------------
Management fees 0.75% 0.75% 0.75%
Distribution and service
(12b-1) fees6 0.46% 1.00% 1.00%
Other expenses 0.18% 0.19% 0.19%
--------------------------------
Total annual fund operating
expenses 1.39% 1.94% 1.94%
================================
1. Before January 1, 1999, Class A shares were designated Class I and Class
C shares were designated Class II.
2. The fund began offering Class B shares on January 1, 1999. Annual fund
operating expenses are based on the expenses for Class A and C for the
fiscal year ended September 30, 1998. The distribution and service
(12b-1) fees are based on the maximum fees allowed under Class B's Rule
12b-1 plan.
3. Except for investments of $1 million or more (see page #) and purchases
by certain retirement plans without an initial sales charge.
4. This is equivalent to a charge of 1% based on net asset value.
5. There is a $5 fee for each exchange by a market timer (see page #).
6. Because of the distribution and service (12b-1) fees, over the long term
you may indirectly pay more than the equivalent of the maximum permitted
initial sales charge.
EXAMPLE
This example can help you compare the cost of investing in the fund with the
cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example assumes you invest $10,000 for the periods shown and then sell
all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes your
investment has a 5% return each year and the fund's operating expenses remain
the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these
assumptions your costs would be:
1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CLASS A $708 1 $990 $1,292 $2,148
CLASS B
Assuming you sold your shares
at the end of the period $597 $609 $1,047 $2,264 2
Assuming you stayed in the
fund $198 $612 $1,052 $2,130 2
CLASS C $392 3 $706 $1,125 $2,148
1. Assumes a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) will not apply.
2. Assumes conversion of Class B shares to Class A shares after eight years,
lowering your annual expenses from that time on.
3. For the same Class C investment, your costs would be $294 if you did not
sell your shares at the end of the first year. Your costs for the remaining
periods would be the same.
[Insert graphic of briefcase] MANAGEMENT
Franklin Advisory Services, Inc. (Advisory Services), One Parker Plaza,
Sixteenth Floor, Fort Lee, New Jersey 07024, is the fund's investment
manager. Together, Advisory Services and its affiliates manage over $208
billion in assets.
The team responsible for the fund's management is:
DONALD G. TAYLOR, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISORY SERVICES
Mr. Taylor has been with the Franklin Templeton Group since 1996. Before 1996
he was a portfolio manager for Fidelity Management & Research Co.
WILLIAM J. LIPPMAN, PRESIDENT OF ADVISORY SERVICES
Mr. Lippman has been a manager on the fund since 1987 and has more than 30
years' experience in the securities industry.
GERARD P. SULLIVAN, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISORY SERVICES
Mr. Sullivan has been with the Franklin Templeton Group since March 1998.
Previously, he was a Portfolio Manager for SunAmerica Asset Management from
February 1995 to February 1998 and a Portfolio Manager for Texas Commerce
Investment Management & Co. from July 1993 to February 1995.
MARGARET MCGEE, VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISORY SERVICES
Ms. McGee has been in the securities industry since 1985 and with the
Franklin Templeton Group since 1988.
The fund pays the manager a fee for managing the fund's assets and making its
investment decisions. For the fiscal year ended September 30, 1998,
the fund paid 0.75% of its average monthly net assets to the manager.
YEAR 2000 PROBLEM The fund's business operations depend on a worldwide
network of computer systems that contain date fields, including securities
trading systems, securities transfer agent operations and stock market links.
Many of the systems currently use a two digit date field to represent the
date, and unless these systems are changed or modified, they may not be able
to distinguish the Year 1900 from the Year 2000 (commonly referred to as the
Year 2000 problem). In addition, the fact that the Year 2000 is a
non-standard leap year may create difficulties for some systems.
When the Year 2000 arrives, the fund's operations could be adversely affected
if the computer systems used by the manager, its service providers and other
third parties it does business with are not Year 2000 ready. For example, the
fund's portfolio and operational areas could be impacted, including
securities trade processing, interest and dividend payments, securities
pricing, shareholder account services, reporting, custody functions and
others. The fund could experience difficulties in effecting transactions if
any of its foreign subcustodians, or if foreign broker-dealers or foreign
markets are not ready for Year 2000.
The fund's manager and its affiliated service providers are making a
concerted effort to take steps they believe are reasonably designed to
address their Year 2000 problems. Of course, the fund's ability to reduce the
effects of the Year 2000 problem is also very much dependent upon the efforts
of third parties over which the fund and its manager may have no control.
[Insert graphic of dollar
signs and stacks of coins] DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
INCOME AND CAPITAL GAINS DISTRIBUTIONS The fund intends to pay a dividend at
least quarterly representing its net investment income. Capital gains, if
any, may be distributed annually. The amount of these
distributions will vary and there is no guarantee the fund will pay
dividends.
To receive a distribution, you must be a shareholder on the record date. The
record dates for the fund's distributions will vary. Please keep in mind that
if you invest in the fund shortly before the record date of a distribution,
any distribution will lower the value of the fund's shares by the amount of
the distribution and you will receive some of your investment back in the
form of a taxable distribution. If you would like information on upcoming
record dates for the fund's distributions, please call 1-800/DIAL BEN.
TAX CONSIDERATIONS In general, fund distributions are taxable to you as
either ordinary income or capital gains. This is true whether you reinvest
your distributions in additional shares of the fund or receive them in cash.
Any capital gains the fund distributes are taxable to you as long-term
capital gains no matter how long you have owned your shares.
[Begin callout]
BACKUP WITHHOLDING
By law, the fund must withhold 31% of your taxable distributions and proceeds
if you do not provide your correct taxpayer identification number (TIN) or
certify that your TIN is correct, or if the IRS instructs the fund to do so.
[End callout]
Every January, you will receive a statement that shows the tax status of
distributions you received for the previous year. Distributions declared in
December but paid in January are taxable as if they were paid in December.
When you sell your shares, you may have a capital gain or loss. For tax
purposes, an exchange of your fund shares for shares of a different Franklin
Templeton Fund is the same as a sale. The tax rate on any gain from the sale
or exchange of your shares depends on how long you have held your shares.
Fund distributions and gains from the sale or exchange of your shares will
generally be subject to state and local income tax. Any foreign taxes the
fund pays on its investments may be passed through to you as a foreign tax
credit. Non-U.S. investors may be subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax.
You should consult your tax professional about federal, state, local or
foreign tax consequences.
[Insert graphic of a dollar bill] FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
This table presents the fund's financial performance for the past five years.
This information has been audited by Tait, Weller and Baker.
CLASS A YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996 1995 1994
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value, 26.93 20.03 17.31 14.67 15.43
Beginning of year
------------------------------------------------
Net investment income .13 .16 .28 .33 .28
Net realized and unrealized (2.22) 8.23 2.78 2.61 (.80)
Gains (losses)
------------------------------------------------
Total from investment (2.09) 8.39 3.06 2.94 (.52)
operations
------------------------------------------------
Dividends from net (.11) (.18) (.34) (.30) (.24)
Investment income
Distributions from net (3.20) (1.31) -- -- --
realized gains
------------------------------------------------
Total distributions (3.31) (1.49) (.34) (.30) (.24)
------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 21.53 26.93 20.03 17.31 14.67
================================================
Total return (%)1 (9.05) 44.10 17.83 20.32 (3.38)
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year 407,336 394,873 277,746 260,917 261,461
($ 973489382x 1,000)
Ratios to average net
Assets: (%)
Expenses 1.39 1.41 1.40 1.43 1.43
Net investment income .51 .71 1.49 2.10 1.81
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 23.99 39.47 31.55 14.60 25.75
CLASS C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value, 26.85 19.98 17.28 15.47
Beginning of year
--------------------------------------
Net investment income -- .08 .21 .11
Net realized and unrealized (2.20) 8.17 2.74 1.83
gains (losses)
--------------------------------------
Total from investment (2.20) 8.25 2.95 1.94
operations
--------------------------------------
Dividends from net -- (.07) (.25) (.13)
investment income
Distributions from net (3.20) (1.31) -- --
Realized gains
--------------------------------------
Total distributions (3.20) (1.38) (.25) (.13)
--------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 21.45 26.85 19.98 17.28
======================================
Total return (%)1 (9.48) 43.37 17.16 12.56
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year 43,790 14,526 3,882 1,060
($ x 1,000
Ratios to average net
Assets: (%)
Expenses 1.94 1.95 1.95 1.90
Net investment income (.05) .17 .94 1.92
(loss)
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 23.99 39.47 31.55 14.60
1. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
YOUR ACCOUNT
[Insert graphic of pencil marking an "X"] CHOOSING A SHARE CLASS
Each class has its own sales charge and expense structure, allowing you to
choose the class that best meets your situation. Your investment
representative can help you decide.
CLASS A CLASS B CLASS C
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
o Initial sales o No initial sales o Initial sales
charge of 5.75% or charge charge of 1%
less
o Deferred sales o Deferred sales o Deferred sales
charge of 1% on charge of 4% or charge of 1% on
purchases of $1 less on shares you shares you sell
million or more sold sell within six within 18 months
within 12 months years
o Lower annual o Higher annual o Higher annual
expenses than Class expenses than Class expenses than Class
B or C due to lower A (same as Class C) A (same as Class B)
distribution fees due to higher due to higher
distribution fees. distribution fees.
Automatic No conversion to
conversion to Class Class A shares, so
A shares after annual expenses do
eight years, not decrease.
reducing future
annual expenses.
BEFORE JANUARY 1, 1999, CLASS A SHARES WERE DESIGNATED CLASS I AND CLASS C
SHARES WERE DESIGNATED CLASS II. THE FUND BEGAN OFFERING CLASS B SHARES ON
JANUARY 1, 1999.
SALES CHARGES - CLASS A
THE SALES CHARGE
MAKES UP THIS % OF WHICH EQUALS THIS % OF
WHEN YOU INVEST THIS AMOUNT THE OFFERING PRICE YOUR NET INVESTMENT
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Under $50,000 5.75 6.10
$50,000 but under $100,000 4.50 4.71
$100,000 but under $250,000 3.50 3.63
$250,000 but under $500,000 2.50 2.56
$500,000 but under $1 million 2.00 2.04
INVESTMENTS OF $1 MILLION OR MORE If you invest $1 million or more, either
as a lump sum or through our cumulative quantity discount or letter of intent
programs (see page #), you can buy Class A shares without an initial sales
charge. However, there is a 1% contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) on any
shares you sell within 12 months of purchase. The way we calculate the CDSC
is the same for each class (please see page #).
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE (12B-1) FEES Class A has a distribution plan,
sometimes known as a Rule 12b-1 plan, that allows the fund to pay
distribution fees of up to 0.50% per year to those who sell and distribute
Class A shares and provide other services to shareholders. Because these fees
are paid out of Class A's assets on an on-going basis, over time these fees
will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying
other types of sales charges.
SALES CHARGES - CLASS B
IF YOU SELL YOUR SHARES
WITHIN THIS MANY YEARS AFTER BUYING THIS % IS DEDUCTED FROM
THEM YOUR PROCEEDS AS A CDSC
- --------------------------------------------------------------
1 Year 4
2 Years 4
3 Years 3
4 Years 3
5 Years 2
6 Years 1
7 Years 0
With Class B shares, there is no initial sales charge. However, there is a
CDSC if you sell your shares within six years, as described in the table
above. The way we calculate the CDSC is the same for each class (please see
page [#]). After 8 years, your Class B shares automatically convert to Class
A shares, lowering your annual expenses from that time on.
MAXIMUM PURCHASE AMOUNT The maximum amount you may invest in Class B shares
at one time is $249,999. We invest any investment of $250,000 or more in
Class A shares, since a reduced initial sales charge is available and Class
A's annual expenses are lower.
RETIREMENT PLANS Class B shares are not available to all retirement plans.
Class B shares are only available to IRAs (of any type), Franklin Templeton
Trust Company 403(b) plans, and Franklin Templeton Trust Company qualified
plans with participant or earmarked accounts.
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE (12B-1) FEES Class B has a distribution plan,
sometimes known as a Rule 12b-1 plan, that allows the fund to pay
distribution and other fees of up to 1.001.0011% per year
for the sale of Class B shares and for services provided to shareholders.
Because these fees are paid out of Class B's assets on an on-going basis,
over time these fees will increase the cost of your investment and may cost
you more than paying other types of sales charges.
SALES CHARGES - CLASS C
THE SALES CHARGE
MAKES UP THIS % OF WHICH EQUALS THIS % OF
WHEN YOU INVEST THIS AMOUNT THE OFFERING PRICE YOUR NET INVESTMENT
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Under $1 million 1.00 1.01
WE INVEST ANY INVESTMENT OF $1 MILLION OR MORE IN CLASS A SHARES, SINCE THERE
IS NO INITIAL SALES CHARGE AND CLASS A'S ANNUAL EXPENSES ARE LOWER.
CDSC There is a 1% contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) on any Class C
shares you sell within 18 months of purchase. The way we calculate the CDSC
is the same for each class (please see page #).
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE (12B-1) FEES Class C has a distribution plan,
sometimes known as a Rule 12b-1 plan, that allows the fund to pay
distribution and other fees of up to 1.00% per year for the sale of Class C
shares and for services provided to shareholders. Because these fees are paid
out of Class C's assets on an on-going basis, over time these fees will
increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other
types of sales charges.
CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE (CDSC) - CLASS A, B & C
The CDSC for each class is based on the current value of the shares being
sold or their net asset value when purchased, whichever is less. There is no
CDSC on shares you acquire by reinvesting your dividends.
[Begin callout]
The HOLDING PERIOD FOR THE CDSC begins on the day you buy your shares. Your
shares will age one month on that same date the next month and each following
month.
For example, if you buy shares on the 18th of the month, they will age one
month on the 18th day of the next month and each following month.
[End callout]
To keep your CDSC as low as possible, each time you place a request to sell
shares we will first sell any shares in your account that are not subject to
a CDSC. If there are not enough of these to meet your request, we will sell
the shares in the order they were purchased. We will use this same method if
you exchange your shares into another Franklin Templeton Fund (please see
page # for exchange information).
SALES CHARGE REDUCTIONS AND WAIVERS
If you qualify for any of the sales charge reductions or waivers below,
please let us know at the time you make your investment to help ensure you
receive the lower sales charge.
QUANTITY DISCOUNTS We offer several ways for you to combine your purchases
in the Franklin Templeton Funds to take advantage of the lower sales charges
for large purchases of Class A shares.
[Begin callout]
The FRANKLIN TEMPLETON FUNDS include all of the Franklin Templeton U.S.
registered mutual funds, except Franklin Valuemark Funds, Templeton Capital
Accumulator Fund, Inc., and Templeton Variable Products Series Fund.
[End callout]
o CUMULATIVE QUANTITY DISCOUNT - lets you combine all of your shares in
the Franklin Templeton Funds for purposes of calculating the sales charge.
You may also combine the shares of your spouse, and your children or
grandchildren, if they are under the age of 21. Certain company and
retirement plan accounts may also be included.
o LETTER OF INTENT (LOI) - expresses your intent to buy a stated dollar
amount of shares over a 13-month period and lets you receive the same
sales charge as if all shares had been purchased at one time. We will
reserve a portion of your shares to cover any additional sales charge that
may apply if you do not buy the amount stated in your LOI.
TO SIGN UP FOR THESE PROGRAMS, COMPLETE THE APPROPRIATE SECTION OF YOUR
ACCOUNT APPLICATION.
REINSTATEMENT PRIVILEGE If you sell shares of a Franklin Templeton Fund, you
may reinvest some or all of the proceeds within 365 days without an initial
sales charge. The proceeds must be reinvested within the same share class,
except proceeds from the sale of Class B shares will be reinvested in Class A
shares.
If you paid a CDSC when you sold your Class A or C shares, we will credit
your account with the amount of the CDSC paid but a new CDSC will apply. For
Class B shares reinvested in Class A, a new CDSC will not apply, although
your account will not be credited with the amount of any CDSC paid when you
sold your Class B shares.
Proceeds immediately placed in a Franklin Bank Certificate of Deposit (CD)
also may be reinvested without an initial sales charge if you reinvest them
within 365 days from the date the CD matures, including any rollover.
This privilege does not apply to shares you buy and sell under our exchange
program. Shares purchased with the proceeds from a money fund may be subject
to a sales charge.
WAIVERS FOR INVESTMENTS FROM CERTAIN PAYMENTS Class A shares may be
purchased without an initial sales charge or CDSC by investors who reinvest
within 365 days:
o certain payments received under an annuity contract that offers a
Franklin Templeton insurance fund option
o distributions from an existing retirement plan invested in the Franklin
Templeton Funds
o dividend or capital gain distributions from a real estate investment
trust sponsored or advised by Franklin Properties, Inc.
o redemption proceeds from a repurchase of Franklin Floating Rate Trust
shares held continuously for at least 12 months
o redemption proceeds from Class A of any Templeton Global Strategy Fund,
if you are a qualified investor. If you paid a CDSC when you sold your
shares, we will credit your account with the amount of the CDSC paid but a
new CDSC will apply.
WAIVERS FOR CERTAIN INVESTORS Class A shares also may be purchased without an
initial sales charge or CDSC by various individuals and institutions,
including:
o certain trust companies and bank trust departments investing $1 million
or more in assets over which they have full or shared investment discretion
o government entities that are prohibited from paying mutual fund sales
charges
o certain unit investment trusts and their holders reinvesting trust
distributions
o group annuity separate accounts offered to retirement plans
o employees and other associated persons or entities of Franklin Templeton
or of certain dealers
o Chilean retirement plans that meet the requirements for retirement plans
described below.
IF YOU THINK YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR A SALES CHARGE WAIVER,
CALL YOUR INVESTMENT REPRESENTATIVE OR CALL SHAREHOLDER SERVICES
AT 1-800/632-2301 FOR MORE INFORMATION.
CDSC WAIVERS The CDSC for each class generally will be waived:
o to pay account fees
o to make payments through systematic withdrawal plans, up to 1% monthly,
3% quarterly, 6% semiannually or 12% annually depending on the frequency
of your plan
o for redemptions by Franklin Templeton Trust Company employee benefit
plans or employee benefit plans serviced by ValuSelect(R) [(not applicable
to Class B)]
o for IRA distributions due to death or disability or upon periodic
distributions based on life expectancy (for Class B, this applies to all
retirement plan accounts, not only IRAs)
o to return excess contributions (and earnings, if applicable) from
retirement plan accounts
o for redemptions following the death of the shareholder or beneficial owner
o for participant initiated distributions from employee benefit plans or
participant initiated exchanges among investment choices in employee
benefit plans(not applicable to Class B)
RETIREMENT PLANS Certain retirement plans may buy Class A shares without an
initial sales charge. To qualify, the plan must be sponsored by an employer:
o with at least 100 employees, or
o with retirement plan assets of $1 million or more, or
o that agrees to invest at least $500,000 in the Franklin Templeton Funds
over a 13-month period
A CDSC may apply. Retirement plans other than SIMPLEs, SEPs, or plans that
qualify under section 401 of the tax code also must qualify under our group
investment program to buy Class A shares without an initial sales charge.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL YOUR INVESTMENT REPRESENTATIVE OR
RETIREMENT PLAN SERVICES AT 1-800/527-2020.
GROUP INVESTMENT PROGRAM Allows established groups of 11 or more investors
to invest as a group. For sales charge purposes, the group's investments are
added together. There are certain other requirements and the group must have
a purpose other than buying fund shares at a discount.
[Insert graphic of a paper with lines
and someone writing] BUYING SHARES
MINIMUM INVESTMENTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
INITIAL ADDITIONAL
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regular accounts $1,000 $50
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
UGMA/UTMA accounts $100 $50
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retirement accounts no minimum no minimum
(other than IRAs, IRA rollovers, Education
IRAs or Roth IRAs)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
IRAs, IRA rollovers, Education IRAs or Roth
IRAs $250 $50
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Broker-dealer sponsored wrap account
programs $250 $50
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Full-time employees, officers, trustees and
directors of Franklin Templeton entities,
and their immediate family members
$100 $50
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
ACCOUNT APPLICATION If you are opening a new account, please complete and
sign the enclosed account application. Make sure you indicate the share class
you have chosen. If you do not indicate a class, we will invest your purchase
in Class A shares. To save time, you can sign up now for services you may
want on your account by completing the appropriate sections of the
application (see the next page).
BUYING SHARES
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPENING AN ACCOUNT ADDING TO AN ACCOUNT
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of
hands shaking]
Contact your investment Contact your investment
THROUGH YOUR representative representative
INVESTMENT
REPRESENTATIVE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Make your check payable to Make your check payable to
[Insert graphic of Franklin Rising Dividends Franklin Rising Dividends
envelope] Fund. Fund. Include your account
number on the check.
BY MAIL Mail the check and your
signed application to Fill out the deposit slip
Investor Services. from your account statement.
If you do not have a slip,
include a note with your
name, the fund name, and
your account number.
Mail the check and deposit
slip or note to Investor
Services.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of Call to receive a wire Call to receive a wire
three lightning control number and wire control number and wire
bolts] instructions. instructions.
Mail your signed application To make a same day wire
to Investor Services. Please investment, please call us
BY WIRE include the wire control by 1:00 p.m. pacific time
number or your new account and make sure your wire
1-800/632-2301 number on the application. arrives by 3:00 p.m.
(or 1-650/312-2000
collect) To make a same day wire
investment, please call us
by 1:00 p.m. pacific time
and make sure your wire
arrives by 3:00 p.m.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of Call Shareholder Services at Call Shareholder Services at
two arrows pointing the number below, or send the number below or our
in opposite signed written instructions. automated TeleFACTS system,
directions] The TeleFACTS system cannot or send signed written
be used to open a new instructions.
BY EXCHANGE account.
(Please see page # for (Please see page # for
TeleFACTS(R) information on exchanges.) information on exchanges.)
1-800/247-1753
(around-the-clock
access)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FRANKLIN TEMPLETON INVESTOR SERVICES 777 MARINERS ISLAND BLVD., P.O.
BOX 7777,
SAN MATEO, CA 94403-7777
CALL TOLL-FREE: 1-800/632-2301
(MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 5:30 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M., PACIFIC TIME)
[Insert graphic of person with a headset] INVESTOR SERVICES
AUTOMATIC INVESTMENT PLAN This plan offers a convenient way for you to
invest in the fund by automatically transferring money from your checking or
savings account each month to buy shares. The minimum investment to open an
account with an automatic investment plan is $50 ($25 for an Education IRA).
To sign up, complete the appropriate section of your account application.
AUTOMATIC PAYROLL DEDUCTION You may be able to invest automatically in Class
A or B shares of the fund by transferring money from your paycheck to the
fund by electronic funds transfer. If you are interested, indicate on your
application that you would like to receive an Automatic Payroll Deduction
Program kit.
DISTRIBUTION OPTIONS You may reinvest distributions you receive from the
fund in an existing account in the same share class* of the fund or another
Franklin Templeton Fund. Initial sales charges and CDSCs will not apply if
you reinvest your distributions within 365 days. You can also have your
distributions deposited in a bank account, or mailed by check. Deposits to a
bank account may be made by electronic funds transfer.
[Begin callout]
For Franklin Templeton Trust Company retirement plans, special forms may be
needed to receive distributions in cash. Please call 1-800/527-2020 for
information.
[End callout]
Please indicate on your application the distribution option you have chosen,
otherwise we will reinvest your distributions in the same share class of the
fund.
*Class B and C shareholders may reinvest their distributions in Class A
shares of any Franklin Templeton money fund.
RETIREMENT PLANS Franklin Templeton offers a variety of retirement plans for
individuals and businesses. These plans require a separate application and
their policies and procedures may be different than those described in this
prospectus. For more information, including a free retirement plan brochure
or application, please call Retirement Plan Services at 1-800/527-2020.
TELEFACTS(R) Our TeleFACTS system offers around-the-clock access to
information about your account or any Franklin Templeton Fund. This service
is available from touch-tone phones at 1-800/247-1753. For a free TeleFACTS
brochure, call 1-800/DIAL BEN.
TELEPHONE PRIVILEGES You will automatically receive telephone privileges
when you open your account, allowing you and your investment representative
to sell or exchange your shares and make certain other changes to your
account by phone.
For accounts with more than one registered owner, telephone privileges also
allow the fund to accept written instructions signed by only one owner for
transactions and account changes that could otherwise be made by phone. For
all other transactions and changes, all registered owners must sign the
instructions.
As long as we take certain measures to verify telephone requests, we will not
be responsible for any losses that may occur from unauthorized requests. Of
course, you can decline telephone exchange or redemption privileges on your
account application.
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE You can exchange shares between most Franklin Templeton
Funds within the same class*, generally without paying any additional sales
charges. If you exchange shares held for less than six months, however, you
may be charged the difference between the initial sales charge of the two
funds if the difference is more than 0.25%. If you exchange shares from a
money fund, a sales charge may apply no matter how long you have held the
shares.
[Begin callout]
An EXCHANGE is really two transactions: a sale of one fund and the purchase
of another. In general, the same policies that apply to purchases and sales
apply to exchanges, including minimum investment amounts. Exchanges also have
the same tax consequences as ordinary sales and purchases.
[End callout]
Generally exchanges may only be made between identically registered accounts,
unless you send written instructions with a signature guarantee. Any CDSC
will continue to be calculated from the date of your initial investment and
will not be charged at the time of the exchange. The purchase price for
determining a CDSC on exchanged shares will be the price you paid for the
original shares. If you exchange shares subject to a CDSC into a Class A
money fund, the time your shares are held in the money fund will not count
towards the CDSC holding period.
If you exchange your Class B shares for the same class of shares of another
Franklin Templeton Fund, the time your shares are held in that fund will
count towards the eight year period for automatic conversion to Class A
shares.
Frequent exchanges can interfere with fund management or operations and drive
up costs for all shareholders. To protect shareholders, there are limits on
the number and amount of exchanges you may make (please see "Market Timers"
on page #).
*Certain Class Z shareholders of Franklin Mutual Series Fund Inc. may
exchange into Class A without any sales charge. Advisor Class shareholders of
another Franklin Templeton Fund may also exchange into Class A without any
sales charge. Advisor Class shareholders who exchange their shares for Class
A shares and later decide they would like to exchange into another fund that
offers Advisor Class may do so.
SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN This plan allows you to automatically sell your
shares and receive regular payments from your account. A CDSC may apply to
withdrawals that exceed certain amounts. Certain terms and minimums apply. To
sign up, complete the appropriate section of your application.
[Insert graphic of a certificate] SELLING SHARES
You can sell your shares at any time.
SELLING SHARES IN WRITING Requests to sell $100,000 or less can generally be
made over the phone or with a simple letter. Sometimes, however, to protect
you and the fund we will need written instructions signed by all registered
owners, with a signature guarantee for each owner, if:
[Begin callout]
A SIGNATURE GUARANTEE helps protect your account against fraud.
You can obtain a signature guarantee at most banks and securities dealers.
A notary public CANNOT provide a signature guarantee.
[End callout]
o you are selling more than $100,000 worth of shares
o you want your proceeds paid to someone who is not a registered owner
o you want to send your proceeds somewhere other than the address of
record, or preauthorized bank or brokerage firm account
o you have changed the address on your account by phone within the last 15
days
We may also require a signature guarantee on instructions we receive from an
agent, not the registered owners, or when we believe it would protect the
fund against potential claims based on the instructions received.
SELLING RECENTLY PURCHASED SHARES If you sell shares recently purchased with
a check or draft, we may delay sending you the proceeds until your check or
draft has cleared, which may take seven business days or more. A certified or
cashier's check may clear in less time.
REDEMPTION PROCEEDS Your redemption check will be sent within seven days
after we receive your request in proper form. We are not able to receive or
pay out cash in the form of currency. Redemption proceeds may be delayed if
we have not yet received your signed account application.
RETIREMENT PLANS Before you can sell shares in a Franklin Templeton Trust
Company retirement plan, you may need to complete additional forms. For
participants under age 59 1/2, tax penalties may apply. Call Retirement Plan
Services at 1-800/527-2020 for details.
SELLING SHARES
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
TO SELL SOME OR ALL OF YOUR SHARES
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of
hands shaking]
Contact your investment representative
THROUGH YOUR INVESTMENT
REPRESENTATIVE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of Send written instructions and endorsed share
envelope] certificates (if you hold share certificates)
to Investor Services. Corporate, partnership
BY MAIL or trust accounts may need to send additional
documents.
Specify the fund, the account number and the
dollar value or number of shares you wish to
sell. If you own both Class A and B shares,
also specify the class of shares, otherwise we
will sell your Class A shares first. Be sure
to include all necessary signatures and any
additional documents, as well as signature
guarantees if required.
A check will be mailed to the name(s) and
address on the account, or otherwise according
to your written instructions.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of As long as your transaction is for $100,000 or
phone] less, you do not hold share certificates and
you have not changed your address by phone
BY PHONE within the last 15 days, you can sell your
shares by phone.
1-800/632-2301
A check will be mailed to the name(s) and
address on the account. Written instructions,
with a signature guarantee, are required to
send the check to another address or to make
it payable to another person.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of You can call or write to have redemption
three lightning bolts] proceeds of $1,000 or more wired to a bank or
escrow account. See the policies above for
selling shares by mail or phone.
Before requesting a wire, please make sure we
BY WIRE have your bank account information on file. If
we do not have this information, you will need
to send written instructions with your bank's
name and address, your bank account number,
the ABA routing number, and a signature
guarantee.
Requests received in proper form by 1:00 p.m.
pacific time will be wired the next business
day.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of two Obtain a current prospectus for the fund you
arrows pointing in are considering.
opposite directions]
Call Shareholder Services at the number below
BY EXCHANGE or our automated TeleFACTS system, or send
signed written instructions. See the policies
TeleFACTS(R) above for selling shares by mail or phone.
1-800/247-1753
(around-the-clock If you hold share certificates, you will need
access) to return them to the fund before your
exchange can be processed.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
FRANKLIN TEMPLETON INVESTOR SERVICES 777 MARINERS ISLAND BLVD., P.O. BOX
7777,
SAN MATEO, CA 94403-7777
CALL TOLL-FREE: 1-800/632-2301
(MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 5:30 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M., PACIFIC TIME)
[Insert graphic of paper and pen] ACCOUNT POLICIES
CALCULATING SHARE PRICE The fund calculates the net asset value per share
(NAV) each business day at the close of trading on the New York Stock
Exchange (normally 1:00 p.m. pacific time). Each class's NAV is calculated
by dividing its net assets by the number of its shares outstanding.
[Begin callout]
When you buy shares, you pay the offering price. The offering price is the
NAV plus any applicable sales charge.
When you sell shares, you receive the NAV minus any applicable contingent
deferred sales charge (CDSC).
[End callout]
The fund's assets are generally valued at their market value. If market
prices are unavailable, or if an event occurs after the close of the trading
market that materially affects the values, assets may be valued at their fair
value. If the fund holds securities listed primarily on a foreign exchange
that trades on days when the fund is not open for business, the value of your
shares may change on days that you cannot buy or sell shares.
Requests to buy and sell shares are processed at the NAV next calculated
after we receive your request in proper form.
ACCOUNTS WITH LOW BALANCES If the value of your account falls below
$250 ($50 for employee and UGMA/UTMA accounts) because you sell some of your
shares, we may mail you a notice asking you to bring the account back up to
its applicable minimum investment amount. If you choose not to do so within
30 days, we may close your account and mail the proceeds to the address of
record. You will not be charged a CDSC if your account is closed for this
reason.
STATEMENTS AND REPORTS You will receive confirmations and account statements
that show your account transactions. You will also receive the fund's
financial reports every six months. To reduce fund expenses, we try to
identify related shareholders in a household and send only one copy of the
financial reports. If you need additional copies, please call 1-800/DIAL BEN.
If there is a dealer or other investment representative of record on your
account, he or she will also receive confirmations, account statements and
other information about your account directly from the fund.
STREET OR NOMINEE ACCOUNTS You may transfer your shares from the street or
nominee name account of one dealer to another, as long as both dealers have
an agreement with Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. We will process the
transfer after we receive authorization in proper form from your delivering
securities dealer.
JOINT ACCOUNTS Unless you specify a different registration, accounts with
two or more owners are registered as "joint tenants with rights of
survivorship" (shown as "Jt Ten" on your account statement). To make any
ownership changes to a joint account, all owners must agree in writing,
regardless of the law in your state.
MARKET TIMERS The fund may restrict or refuse exchanges by market
timers. If accepted, each exchange by a market timer will be charged $5. You
will be considered a market timer if you have (i) requested an exchange out
of the fund within two weeks of an earlier exchange request, or (ii)
exchanged shares out of the fund more than twice in a calendar quarter, or
(iii) exchanged shares equal to at least $5 million, or more 973489388than 1%
of the fund's net assets, or (iv) otherwise made large or frequent exchanges.
Shares under common ownership or control are combined for these limits.
ADDITIONAL POLICIES Please note that the fund maintains additional policies
and reserves certain rights, including:
o The fund may refuse any order to buy shares, including any purchase under
the exchange privilege.
o At any time, the fund may change its investment minimums or waive or
lower its minimums for certain purchases.
o The fund may modify or discontinue the exchange privilege on 60 days'
notice.
o You may only buy shares of a fund eligible for sale in your state or
jurisdiction.
o In unusual circumstances, we may temporarily suspend redemptions, or
postpone the payment of proceeds, as allowed by federal securities laws.
o For redemptions over a certain amount, the fund reserves the right to
make payments in securities or other assets of the fund, in the case of an
emergency or if the payment by check would be harmful to existing
shareholders.
o To permit investors to obtain the current price, dealers are responsible
for transmitting all orders to the fund promptly.
DEALER COMPENSATION Qualifying dealers who sell fund shares may receive
sales commissions and other payments. These are paid by Franklin Templeton
Distributors, Inc. (Distributors) from sales charges, distribution and
service (12b-1) fees and its other resources.
CLASS A CLASS B CLASS C
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
COMMISSION (%) --- 4.00 2.00
Investment under $50,000 5.00 --- ---
$50,000 but under $100,000 3.75 --- ---
$100,000 but under $250,000 2.80 --- ---
$250,000 but under $500,000 2.00 --- ---
$500,000 but under $1 million 1.60 --- ---
$1 million or more up to 1.00 1 --- ---
12B-1 FEE TO DEALER 0.50 0.25 2 1.00 3
A dealer commission of up to 1% may be paid on Class A NAV purchases
by certain retirement plans1 and up to 0.25% on Class A NAV purchases by
certain trust companies and bank trust departments, eligible governmental
authorities, and broker-dealers or others on behalf of clients participating
in comprehensive fee programs.
1. During the first year after purchase, dealers may not be eligible to
receive the 12b-1 fee.
2. Dealers may be eligible to receive up to 0.25% from the date of purchase.
After 8 years, Class B shares convert to Class A shares and dealers may then
receive the 12b-1 fee applicable to Class A.
3. Dealers may be eligible to receive up to 0.25% during the first year after
purchase and may be eligible to receive the full 12b-1 fee starting in the
13th month.
[Insert graphic of question mark]QUESTIONS
If you have any questions about the fund or your account, you can write to us
at 777 Mariners Island Blvd., P.O. Box 7777, San Mateo, CA 94403-7777. You
can also call us at one of the following numbers. For your protection and to
help ensure we provide you with quality service, all calls may be monitored
or recorded.
HOURS (PACIFIC TIME,
DEPARTMENT NAME TELEPHONE NUMBER MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Services 1-800/632-2301 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Fund Information 1-800/DIAL BEN 5:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
(1-800/342-5236) 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
(Saturday)
Retirement Plan Services
1-800/527-2020 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Dealer Services 1-800/524-4040 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Institutional Services 1-800/321-8563 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
TDD (hearing impaired) 1-800/851-0637 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
You can learn more about the fund in the following documents:
ANNUAL/SEMIANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS
Includes a discussion of recent market conditions and fund strategies,
financial statements, detailed performance information, portfolio holdings,
and the auditor's report.
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (SAI)
Contains more information about the fund, its investments and policies. It is
incorporated by reference (is legally a part of this prospectus).
For a free copy of the current annual/semiannual report or the SAI, please
contact your investment representative or call us at the number below.
FRANKLIN(R)TEMPLETON(R)
1-800/DIAL BEN(R) (1-800/342-5236)
TDD (Hearing Impaired) 1-800/851-0637
www.franklin-templeton.com
You can also obtain information about the fund by visiting the SEC's Public
Reference Room in Washington D.C. (phone 1-800/SEC-0330) or by sending your
request and a duplicating fee to the SEC's Public Reference Section,
Washington, DC 20549-6009. You can also visit the SEC's Internet site at
http://www.sec.gov.
Investment Company Act file # SEC 40 Act: 811-4894
158P 02/99
PROSPECTUS
FRANKLIN
INVESTMENT GRADE INCOME FUND
Class A
INVESTMENT STRATEGY INCOME
FEBRUARY 1, 1999
[Insert Franklin Templeton Ben Head]
LIKE ALL MUTUAL FUND SHARES, THE SEC HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THESE
SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION
TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
CONTENTS
THE FUND
[Begin callout]
Information about the fund you should know before investing
[End callout]
[insert page #] Goal and Strategies
[insert page #] Main Risks
[insert page #] Performance
[insert page #] Fees and Expenses
[insert page #] Management
[insert page #] Distributions and Taxes
[insert page #] Financial Highlights
YOUR ACCOUNT
[Begin callout]
Information about sales charges, account transactions and services
[End callout]
[insert page #] Sales Charges
[insert page #] Buying Shares
[insert page #] Investor Services
[insert page #] Selling Shares
[insert page #] Account Policies
[insert page #] Questions
FOR MORE INFORMATION
[Begin callout]
Where to learn more about the fund
[End callout]
Back Cover
THE FUND
[Insert graphic of bullseye and arrows] GOAL AND STRATEGIES
GOAL The fund's investment goal is to seek a maximum level of income
consistent with prudent exposure to risk.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENTS The fund will normally invest at least 75% of total
assets in investment grade debt securities. At least 65% of its total assets
will be invested in intermediate-term securities with effective remaining
maturities between two and ten years. The fund generally invests up to 25% of
assets in debt securities issued by foreign corporations and governments,
their instrumentalities, and supranational entities.
The fund may also invest in "putable" bonds, when available on an attractive
basis. A putable bond is redeemable at face value (par) at the holder's
option on a specific date or dates before the final stated maturity. When
interest rates rise, the holder can choose to sell the bond early and
reinvest the proceeds at a higher interest rate. If interest rates decline by
the optional retirement date, the holder may either keep the higher-yielding
bond or sell it a favorable price.
[Begin callout]
The fund invests primarily in investment grade quality, intermediate-term
debt securities.
[End callout]
The fund focuses on "investment grade" securities which are issues rated in
the top four rating categories by independent rating agencies such as
Standard & Poor's Corporation (S&P) or Moody's Investors Services, Inc.
(Moody's) or, if unrated, determined by the fund's manager to be comparable.
Although the fund may invest up to 25% of total assets in non-investment
grade debt securities, it will not invest in securities rated lower than B by
S&P or Moody's.
TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS The manager may take a temporary defensive position
when the securities trading markets or the economy are experiencing excessive
volatility or a prolonged general decline, or other adverse conditions exist.
Under these circumstances, the fund may be unable to pursue its investment
goal because it may not invest or may invest less in investment grade debt
securities.
[Insert graphic of chart with line going up and down] MAIN RISKS
INTEREST RATE RISK When interest rates rise, fixed-income security prices
fall. The opposite is also true: fixed-income security prices rise when
interest rates fall. Generally, interest rates rise during times of inflation
or a growing economy, and will fall during an economic slowdown or recession.
Securities with longer maturities usually are more sensitive to interest rate
changes than securities with shorter maturities.
INCOME RISK Since the fund can only distribute what it earns, the fund's
distributions to its shareholders may decline when interest rates fall.
[Begin Callout]
Changes in interest rates affect the prices of the fund's debt securities. If
rates rise, the value of all the fund's debt securities will fall and so too
will the fund's share price. This means you could lose money.
[End Callout]
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mutual fund shares are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed or
endorsed by, any bank, and are not federally insured by the Federal Deposit
Insurance Corporation, the Federal Reserve Board, or any other agency of the
U.S. government. Although the fund tries to maintain a $1 share price, it is
possible to lose money by investing in the fund.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CREDIT RISK This is the possibility that an issuer will be unable to make
interest payments or repay principal. Changes in an issuer's financial
strength or in a security's credit rating may affect its value and, thus,
impact the value of fund shares.
FOREIGN SECURITIES RISK Securities of governments and companies located
outside the U.S. may offer significant opportunities for gain, but they also
involve additional risks that can increase the potential for losses in the
fund.
COUNTRY RISK. General securities market movements in any country where the
fund has investments are likely to affect the value of the securities the
fund owns which trade in that country. These movements will affect the fund's
share price.
The political, economic and social structures of some countries the fund
invests in may be less stable and more volatile than those in the U.S. The
risks of investing in these countries include the possibility of the
imposition of exchange controls, expropriation, restrictions on removal of
currency or other assets, nationalization of assets and punitive taxes.
COMPANY RISK. Foreign companies are not subject to the same accounting,
auditing and financial reporting standards and practices as U.S. companies
and their stocks may not be as liquid as stocks of similar U.S. companies.
Foreign stock exchanges, brokers and companies generally have less government
supervision and regulation than in the U.S. The fund may have greater
difficulty voting proxies, exercising shareholder rights, pursuing legal
remedies and obtaining judgments with respect to foreign investments in
foreign courts than with respect to U.S. companies in U.S. courts.
CURRENCY RISK Many of the fund's investments are denominated in foreign
currencies. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates will affect the value
of what the fund owns and the fund's share price. Generally, when the U.S.
dollar rises in value against a foreign currency, an investment in that
country loses value because that currency is worth fewer U.S. dollars.
EURO. On January 1, 1999, the European Monetary Union (EMU) plans to
introduce a new single currency, the euro, which will replace the national
currency for participating member countries. If the fund holds investments in
countries with currencies replaced by the euro, the investment process,
including trading, foreign exchange, payments, settlements, cash accounts,
custody and accounting will be impacted.
Because this change to a single currency is new and untested, the
establishment of the euro may result in market volatility. For the same
reason, it is not possible to predict the impact of the euro on the business
or financial condition of European issuers which the fund may hold in its
portfolio, and their impact on the value of fund shares. To the extent the
fund holds non-U.S. dollar (euro or other) denominated securities, it will
still be exposed to currency risk due to fluctuations in those currencies
versus the U.S. dollar.
YEAR 2000 When evaluating current and potential portfolio positions, Year
2000 is only one of the factors the fund's manager considers.
The manager will rely upon public filings and other statements made by
companies about their Year 2000 readiness. Issuers in countries outside the
U.S. may not be required to make the same level of disclosure about Year 2000
readiness as is required in the U.S. The manager, of course, cannot audit
each company and its major suppliers to verify their Year 2000 readiness.
If a company in which the fund is invested is adversely affected by Year 2000
problems, it is likely that the price of its security will also be adversely
affected. A decrease in the value of one or more of the fund's portfolio
holdings will have a similar impact on the price of the fund's shares. Please
see page [#] for more information.
More detailed information about the fund, its policies and risks can be found
in the fund's Statement of Additional Information (SAI).
[Begin callout]
Mutual fund shares are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed or
endorsed by, any bank, and are not federally insured by the Federal Deposit
Insurance Corporation, the Federal Reserve Board, or any other agency of the
U.S. government. Mutual fund shares involve investment risks, including the
possible loss of principal.
[End callout]
[Insert graphic of a bull and a bear] PERFORMANCE
This bar chart and table show the volatility of the fund's returns, which is
one indicator of the risks of investing in the fund. The bar chart shows
changes in the fund's returns from year to year over the past 10 calendar
years. The table shows how the fund's average annual total returns compare to
those of a broad-based securities market index. Of course, past performance
cannot predict or guarantee future results.
CLASS A ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS1
[Insert bar graph]
7.24% 8.50% 7.01% 16.58% 6.16% 9.04% -1.16% 11.02% 3.49% 5.38%
88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97
YEAR
[Begin callout]
Best quarter:
Q4 '91 5.50%
Worst quarter:
Q1 '94 -1.66%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1997
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Investment Grade Income 0.91% 4.55% 6.77%
Fund - Class A2
Lehman Brothers Government/ 9.76% 7.61% 9.15%
Corporate Bond Index3
1. Figures do not reflect sales charges. If they did, returns would be lower.
As of September 30, 1998, the fund's year-to-date return was 4.91% for Class A.
2. Figures reflect sales charges. All fund performance assumes reinvestment
of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Lehman Brothers Government/Corporate Bond Index is an unmanaged
index of fixed-rate U.S. government and foreign and domestic corporate bonds
that are rated investment grade or higher and have maturities of one year or
more and at least $50 million outstanding. One cannot invest directly in an
index, nor is an index representative of the fund's portfolio.
[Insert graphic of percentage sign] FEES AND EXPENSES
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and
hold shares of the fund. It is based on the fund's expenses for the fiscal
year ended September 30, 1998.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT)
1
CLASS A
----------
Maximum sales charge (load) 4.25%
as a percentage of offering
price
Paid at time of purchase 4.25%
Paid at redemption None2
Exchange fee3 None
Please see "Sales Charges" on page # for an explanation of how and when these
sales charges apply.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES DEDUCTED FROM FUND ASSETS)
1
CLASS A
----------
Management fees 0.50%
Distribution and service
(12b-1) fees4 0.25
Other expenses 0.32%
----------
Total annual fund operating
expenses5 1.07%
==========
1. Before January 1, 1999, Class A shares were designated Class I.
2. Except for investments of $1 million or more (see page #) and purchases by
certain retirement plans without an initial sales charge.
3. There is a $5 fee for each exchange by a market timer (see page #).
4. Because of the distribution and service (12b-1) fees, over the long term
you may indirectly pay more than the equivalent of the maximum permitted
initial sales charge.
5. Class A total annual fund operating expenses differ from the ratio of
expenses to average net assets shown on page [#] due to a timing difference
between the end of the 12b-1 plan year and the fund's fiscal year end.
EXAMPLE
This example can help you compare the cost of investing in the fund with the
cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example assumes you invest $10,000 for the periods shown and then sell
all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes your
investment has a 5% return each year and the fund's operating expenses remain
the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these
assumptions your costs would be:
1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- --------------------------------------------------------
CLASS A $529 1 $751 $950 $1,675
1. Assumes a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) will not apply.
[Insert graphic of briefcase] MANAGEMENT
Franklin Advisory Services, Inc. (Advisory Services), One Parker Plaza,
Sixteenth Floor, Fort Lee, New Jersey 07013, is the fund's investment
manager. Together, Advisory Services and its affiliates manage over $208
billion in assets.
The team responsible for the fund's management is:
WILLIAM J. LIPPMAN, PRESIDENT OF ADVISORY SERVICES
Mr. Lippman has been a manager on the fund since 1987 and has more than 30
years' experience in the securities industry.
PHILIP H.W. SMITH, VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISORY SERVICES
Mr. Smith has been a manager on the fund since 1987 and has more than 30
years' experience in the securities industry.
MARGARET MCGEE, VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISORY SERVICES
Ms. McGee has been a manager of the fund since 1988. She joined the Franklin
Templeton Group in 1988.
The fund pays the manager a fee for managing the fund's assets and making its
investment decisions. For the fiscal year ended September 30, 1998, the fund
paid 0.50% of its average monthly net assets to the manager.
YEAR 2000 PROBLEM The fund's business operations depend on a worldwide
network of computer systems that contain date fields, including securities
trading systems, securities transfer agent operations and stock market links.
Many of the systems currently use a two digit date field to represent the
date, and unless these systems are changed or modified, they may not be able
to distinguish the Year 1900 from the Year 2000 (commonly referred to as the
Year 2000 problem). In addition, the fact that the Year 2000 is a
non-standard leap year may create difficulties for some systems.
When the Year 2000 arrives, the fund's operations could be adversely affected
if the computer systems used by the manager, its service providers and other
third parties it does business with are not Year 2000 ready. For example, the
fund's portfolio and operational areas could be impacted, including
securities trade processing, interest and dividend payments, securities
pricing, shareholder account services, reporting, custody functions and
others. The fund could experience difficulties in effecting transactions if
any of its foreign subcustodians, or if foreign broker-dealers or foreign
markets are not ready for Year 2000.
The fund's manager and its affiliated service providers are making a
concerted effort to take steps they believe are reasonably designed to
address their Year 2000 problems. Of course, the fund's ability to reduce the
effects of the Year 2000 problem is also very much dependent upon the efforts
of third parties over which the fund and its manager may have no control.
[Insert graphic of dollar
signs and stacks of coins] DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
INCOME AND CAPITAL GAINS DISTRIBUTIONS The fund intends to pay a dividend at
least monthly, on or about the 15th day of the month, representing its net
investment income. Capital gains, if any, may be distributed annually. The
amount of these distributions will vary and there is no guarantee the fund
will pay dividends.
To receive a distribution, you must be a shareholder on the record date. The
record dates for the fund's distributions will vary. Please keep in mind that
if you invest in the fund shortly before the record date of a distribution,
any distribution will lower the value of the fund's shares by the amount of
the distribution and you will receive some of your investment back in the
form of a taxable distribution. If you would like information on upcoming
record dates for the fund's distributions, please call 1-800/DIAL BEN.
TAX CONSIDERATIONS In general, fund distributions are taxable to you as
either ordinary income or capital gains. This is true whether you reinvest
your distributions in additional shares of the fund or receive them in cash.
Any capital gains the fund distributes are taxable to you as long-term
capital gains no matter how long you have owned your shares.
[Begin callout]
BACKUP WITHHOLDING
By law, the fund must withhold 31% of your taxable distributions and proceeds
if you do not provide your correct taxpayer identification number (TIN) or
certify that your TIN is correct, or if the IRS instructs the fund to do so.
[End callout]
Every January, you will receive a statement that shows the tax status of
distributions you received for the previous year. Distributions declared in
December but paid in January are taxable as if they were paid in December.
When you sell your shares, you may have a capital gain or loss. For tax
purposes, an exchange of your fund shares for shares of a different Franklin
Templeton Fund is the same as a sale. The tax rate on any gain from the sale
or exchange of your shares depends on how long you have held your shares.
Fund distributions and gains from the sale or exchange of your shares will
generally be subject to state and local income tax. Non-U.S. investors may be
subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax. You should consult your tax
professional about federal, state, local or foreign tax consequences.
[Insert graphic of a dollar bill] FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
This table presents the fund's financial performance for the past five years.
This information has been audited by Tait, Weller & Baker.
CLASS A YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996 1995 1994
------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value,
beginning of year 9.08 9.01 9.04 8.82 9.31
------------------------------------------------
Net investment income .43 .41 .44 .44 .45
Net realized and unrealized
gains (losses) .14 .09 (.06) .26 (.54)
------------------------------------------------
Total from investment
operations .57 .50 .38 .70 (.09)
------------------------------------------------
Distributions from net
investment income (.43) (.43) (.41) (.48) (.40)
Net asset value, end of year 9.22 9.08 9.01 9.04 8.82
================================================
Total return (%)1 6.50% 5.68 4.25 8.21 (1.02)
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year
($ x 1,000) 54,958 43,568 29,372 29,824 29,553
Ratios to average net
assets: (%)
Expenses 1.10 1.05 1.06 1.09 1.05
Net investment income 4.74 4.73 4.81 4.96 4.91
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 20.80 41.32 20.06 64.70 10.57
1. Total return does not include sales charges, and is not annualized.
YOUR ACCOUNT
[Insert graphic of percentage sign] SALES CHARGES
THE SALES CHARGE
MAKES UP THIS % OF WHICH EQUALS THIS % OF
WHEN YOU INVEST THIS AMOUNT THE OFFERING PRICE YOUR NET INVESTMENT
Under $100,000 4.25 4.44
$100,000 but under $250,000 3.50 3.63
$250,000 but under $500,000 2.75 2.83
$500,000 but under $1 million 2.15 2.20
INVESTMENTS OF $1 MILLION OR MORE If you invest $1 million or more, either
as a lump sum or through our cumulative quantity discount or letter of intent
programs (see page [#]), you can buy Class A shares without an initial sales
charge. However, there is a 1% contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) on any
shares you sell within 12 months of purchase.
The CDSC is based on the current value of the shares being sold or their net
asset value when purchased, whichever is less. There is no CDSC on shares you
acquire by reinvesting your dividends.
[Begin callout]
The HOLDING PERIOD FOR THE CDSC begins on the day you buy your shares. Your
shares will age one month on that same date the next month and each following
month.
For example, if you buy shares on the 18th of the month, they will age one
month on the 18th day of the next month and each following month.
[End callout]
To keep your CDSC as low as possible, each time you place a request to sell
shares we will first sell any shares in your account that are not subject to
a CDSC. If there are not enough of these to meet your request, we will sell
the shares in the order they were purchased. We will use this same method if
you exchange your shares into another Franklin Templeton Fund (please see
page [#] for exchange information).
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE (12B-1) FEES Class A has a distribution plan,
sometimes known as a Rule 12b-1 plan, that allows the fund to pay
distribution fees of up to 0.25% per year to those who sell and distribute
Class A shares and provide other services to shareholders. Because these fees
are paid out of Class A's assets on an on-going basis, over time these fees
will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying
other types of sales charges.
SALES CHARGE REDUCTIONS AND WAIVERS
If you qualify for any of the sales charge reductions or waivers below,
please let us know at the time you make your investment to help ensure you
receive the lower sales charge.
QUANTITY DISCOUNTS We offer several ways for you to combine your purchases
in the Franklin Templeton Funds to take advantage of the lower sales charges
for large purchases of Class A shares.
[Begin callout]
The FRANKLIN TEMPLETON FUNDS include all of the Franklin Templeton U.S.
registered mutual funds, except Franklin Valuemark Funds, Templeton Capital
Accumulator Fund, Inc., and Templeton Variable Products Series Fund.
[End callout]
o CUMULATIVE QUANTITY DISCOUNT - lets you combine all of your shares in
the Franklin Templeton Funds for purposes of calculating the sales charge.
You may also combine the shares of your spouse, and your children or
grandchildren, if they are under the age of 21. Certain company and
retirement plan accounts may also be included.
o LETTER OF INTENT (LOI) - expresses your intent to buy a stated dollar
amount of shares over a 13-month period and lets you receive the same
sales charge as if all shares had been purchased at one time. We will
reserve a portion of your shares to cover any additional sales charge that
may apply if you do not buy the amount stated in your LOI.
TO SIGN UP FOR THESE PROGRAMS, COMPLETE THE APPROPRIATE SECTION OF YOUR
ACCOUNT APPLICATION.
REINSTATEMENT PRIVILEGE If you sell shares of a Franklin Templeton Fund, you
may reinvest some or all of the proceeds within 365 days without an initial
sales charge. The proceeds must be reinvested within the same share class,
except proceeds from the sale of Class B shares will be reinvested in Class A
shares.
If you paid a CDSC when you sold your Class A or C shares, we will credit
your account with the amount of the CDSC paid but a new CDSC will apply. For
Class B shares reinvested in Class A, a new CDSC will not apply, although
your account will not be credited with the amount of any CDSC paid when you
sold your Class B shares.
Proceeds immediately placed in a Franklin Bank Certificate of Deposit (CD)
also may be reinvested without an initial sales charge if you reinvest them
within 365 days from the date the CD matures, including any rollover.
This privilege does not apply to shares you buy and sell under our exchange
program. Shares purchased with the proceeds from a money fund may be subject
to a sales charge.
WAIVERS FOR INVESTMENTS FROM CERTAIN PAYMENTS Shares of the fund may be
purchased without an initial sales charge or CDSC by investors who reinvest
within 365 days:
o certain payments received under an annuity contract that offers a
Franklin Templeton insurance fund option
o distributions from an existing retirement plan invested in the Franklin
Templeton Funds
o dividend or capital gain distributions from a real estate investment
trust sponsored or advised by Franklin Properties, Inc.
o redemption proceeds from a repurchase of Franklin Floating Rate Trust
shares held continuously for at least 12 months
o redemption proceeds from Class A of any Templeton Global Strategy Fund,
if you are a qualified investor. If you paid a CDSC when you sold your
shares, we will credit your account with the amount of the CDSC paid but a
new CDSC will apply.
WAIVERS FOR CERTAIN INVESTORS Shares of the fund also may be purchased
without an initial sales charge or CDSC by various individuals and
institutions, including:
o certain trust companies and bank trust departments investing $1 million
or more in assets over which they have full or shared investment discretion
o government entities that are prohibited from paying mutual fund sales
charges
o certain unit investment trusts and their holders reinvesting trust
distributions
o group annuity separate accounts offered to retirement plans
o employees and other associated persons or entities of Franklin Templeton
or of certain dealers
o Chilean retirement plans that meet the requirements for retirement plans
described below.
IF YOU THINK YOU MAY BE ELIGIBLE FOR A SALES CHARGE WAIVER,
CALL YOUR INVESTMENT REPRESENTATIVE OR CALL SHAREHOLDER SERVICES
AT 1-800/632-2301 FOR MORE INFORMATION.
CDSC WAIVERS The CDSC generally will be waived:
o to pay account fees
o to make payments through systematic withdrawal plans, up to 1% monthly,
3% quarterly, 6% semiannually or 12% annually depending on the frequency
of your plan
o for redemptions by Franklin Templeton Trust Company employee benefit
plans or employee benefit plans serviced by ValuSelect(R)
o for IRA distributions due to death or disability or upon periodic
distributions based on life expectancy
o to return excess contributions )(and earnings, if applicable) from
retirement plan accounts
o for redemptions following the death of the shareholder or beneficial owner
o for participant initiated distributions from employee benefit plans or
participant initiated exchanges among investment choices in employee
benefit plans
RETIREMENT PLANS Certain retirement plans may buy shares of the fund without
an initial sales charge. To qualify, the plan must be sponsored by an
employer:
o with at least 100 employees, or
o with retirement plan assets of $1 million or more, or
o that agrees to invest at least $500,000 in the Franklin Templeton Funds
over a 13-month period
A CDSC may apply. Retirement plans other than SIMPLEs, SEPs, or plans that
qualify under section 401 of the tax code also must qualify under our group
investment program to buy shares without an initial sales charge.
FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL YOUR INVESTMENT REPRESENTATIVE OR RETIREMENT PLAN
SERVICES AT 1-800/527-2020.
GROUP INVESTMENT PROGRAM Allows established groups of 11 or more investors
to invest as a group. For sales charge purposes, the group's investments are
added together. There are certain other requirements and the group must have
a purpose other than buying fund shares at a discount.
[Insert graphic of a paper with lines
and someone writing] BUYING SHARES
MINIMUM INVESTMENTS
INITIAL ADDITIONAL
Regular accounts $1,000 $50
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------
UGMA/UTMA accounts $100 $50
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------
Retirement accounts no minimum no minimum
(other than IRAs, IRA rollovers, Education
IRAs or Roth IRAs)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------
IRAs, IRA rollovers, Education IRAs or Roth
IRAs $250 $50
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------
Broker-dealer sponsored wrap account
programs $250 $50
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------
Full-time employees, officers, trustees and
directors of Franklin Templeton entities,
and their immediate family members
$100 $50
ACCOUNT APPLICATION If you are opening a new account, please complete and
sign the enclosed account application. To save time, you can sign up now for
services you may want on your account by completing the appropriate sections
of the application (see the next page).
BUYING SHARES
OPENING AN ACCOUNT ADDING TO AN ACCOUNT
[Insert graphic of
hands shaking]
Contact your investment Contact your investment
THROUGH YOUR representative representative
INVESTMENT
REPRESENTATIVE
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Make your check payable to Make your check payable to
[Insert graphic of Franklin Investment Grade Franklin Investment Grade
envelope] Income Fund. Income Fund. Include your
account number on the check.
BY MAIL Mail the check and your
signed application to Fill out the deposit slip
Investor Services. from your account statement.
If you do not have a slip,
include a note with your
name, the fund name, and
your account number.
Mail the check and deposit
slip or note to Investor
Services.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of 3 Call to receive a wire Call to receive a wire
lightning bolts] control number and wire control number and wire
instructions. instructions.
Mail your signed application To make a same day wire
BY WIRE to Investor Services. Please investment, please call us
include the wire control by 1:00 p.m. pacific time
1-800/632-2301 number or your new account and make sure your wire
(or 1-650/312-2000 number on the application. arrives by 3:00 p.m.
collect)
To make a same day wire
investment, please call us
by 1:00 p.m. pacific time
and make sure your wire
arrives by 3:00 p.m.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of Call Shareholder Services at Call Shareholder Services at
two arrows pointing the number below, or send the number below or our
in opposite signed written instructions. automated TeleFACTS system,
directions] The TeleFACTS system cannot or send signed written
be used to open a new instructions.
BY EXCHANGE account.
(Please see page # for (Please see page # for
TeleFACTS(R) information on exchanges.) information on exchanges.)
1-800/247-1753
(around-the-clock
access)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FRANKLIN TEMPLETON INVESTOR SERVICES 777 MARINERS ISLAND BLVD., P.O. BOX
7777, SAN MATEO, CA 94403-7777
CALL TOLL-FREE: 1-800/632-2301 (MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 5:30 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M.,
PACIFIC TIME)
[Insert graphic of person with a headset] INVESTOR SERVICES
AUTOMATIC INVESTMENT PLAN This plan offers a convenient way for you to
invest in the fund by automatically transferring money from your checking or
savings account each month to buy shares. The minimum investment to open an
account with an automatic investment plan is $50 ($25 for an Education IRA).
To sign up, complete the appropriate section of your account application.
AUTOMATIC PAYROLL DEDUCTION You may be able to invest automatically in
shares of the fund by transferring money from your paycheck to the fund by
electronic funds transfer. If you are interested, indicate on your
application that you would like to receive an Automatic Payroll Deduction
Program kit.
DISTRIBUTION OPTIONS You may reinvest distributions you receive from the
fund in an existing account in the same share class of the fund or another
Franklin Templeton Fund. Initial sales charges and CDSCs will not apply if
you reinvest your distributions within 365 days. You can also have your
distributions deposited in a bank account, or mailed by check. Deposits to a
bank account may be made by electronic funds transfer.
[Begin callout]
For Franklin Templeton Trust Company retirement plans, special forms may be
needed to receive distributions in cash. Please call 1-800/527-2020 for
information.
[End callout]
Please indicate on your application the distribution option you have chosen,
otherwise we will reinvest your distributions in the same share class of the
fund.
RETIREMENT PLANS Franklin Templeton offers a variety of retirement plans for
individuals and businesses. These plans require a separate application and
their policies and procedures may be different than those described in this
prospectus. For more information, including a free retirement plan brochure
or application, please call Retirement Plan Services at 1-800/527-2020.
TELEFACTS(R) Our TeleFACTS system offers around-the-clock access to
information about your account or any Franklin Templeton Fund. This service
is available from touch-tone phones at 1-800/247-1753. For a free TeleFACTS
brochure, call 1-800/DIAL BEN.
TELEPHONE PRIVILEGES You will automatically receive telephone privileges
when you open your account, allowing you and your investment representative
to sell or exchange your shares and make certain other changes to your
account by phone.
For accounts with more than one registered owner, telephone privileges also
allow the fund to accept written instructions signed by only one owner for
transactions and account changes that could otherwise be made by phone. For
all other transactions and changes, all registered owners must sign the
instructions.
As long as we take certain measures to verify telephone requests, we will not
be responsible for any losses that may occur from unauthorized requests. Of
course, you can decline telephone exchange or redemption privileges on your
account application.
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE You can exchange shares between most Franklin Templeton
Funds within the same class*, generally without paying any additional sales
charges. If you exchange shares held for less than six months, however, you
may be charged the difference between the initial sales charge of the two
funds if the difference is more than 0.25%. If you exchange shares from a
money fund, a sales charge may apply no matter how long you have held the
shares.
[Begin callout]
An EXCHANGE is really two transactions: a sale of one fund and the purchase
of another. In general, the same policies that apply to purchases and sales
apply to exchanges, including minimum investment amounts. Exchanges also have
the same tax consequences as ordinary sales and purchases.
[End callout]
Generally exchanges may only be made between identically registered accounts,
unless you send written instructions with a signature guarantee. Any CDSC
will continue to be calculated from the date of your initial investment and
will not be charged at the time of the exchange. The purchase price for
determining a CDSC on exchanged shares will be the price you paid for the
original shares. If you exchange shares subject to a CDSC into a Class A
money fund, the time your shares are held in the money fund will not count
towards the CDSC holding period.
Frequent exchanges can interfere with fund management or operations and drive
up costs for all shareholders. To protect shareholders, there are limits on
the number and amount of exchanges you may make (please see "Market Timers"
on page [#]).
*Certain Class Z shareholders of Franklin Mutual Series Fund Inc. may
exchange into Class A without any sales charge.
SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN This plan allows you to automatically sell your
shares and receive regular payments from your account. A CDSC may apply to
withdrawals that exceed certain amounts. Certain terms and minimums apply. To
sign up, complete the appropriate section of your application.
[Insert graphic of a certificate] SELLING SHARES
You can sell your shares at any time.
SELLING SHARES IN WRITING Requests to sell $100,000 or less can generally be
made over the phone or with a simple letter. Sometimes, however, to protect
you and the fund we will need written instructions signed by all registered
owners, with a signature guarantee for each owner, if:
[Begin callout]
A SIGNATURE GUARANTEE helps protect your account against fraud.
You can obtain a signature guarantee at most banks and securities dealers.
A notary public CANNOT provide a signature guarantee.
[End callout]
o you are selling more than $100,000 worth of shares
o you want your proceeds paid to someone who is not a registered owner
o you want to send your proceeds somewhere other than the address of
record, or preauthorized bank or brokerage firm account
o you have changed the address on your account by phone within the last 15
days
We may also require a signature guarantee on instructions we receive from an
agent, not the registered owners, or when we believe it would protect the
fund against potential claims based on the instructions received.
SELLING RECENTLY PURCHASED SHARES If you sell shares recently purchased with
a check or draft, we may delay sending you the proceeds until your check or
draft has cleared, which may take seven business days or more. A certified or
cashier's check may clear in less time.
REDEMPTION PROCEEDS Your redemption check will be sent within seven days
after we receive your request in proper form. We are not able to receive or
pay out cash in the form of currency. Redemption proceeds may be delayed if
we have not yet received your signed account application.
RETIREMENT PLANS Before you can sell shares in a Franklin Templeton Trust
Company retirement plan, you may need to complete additional forms. For
participants under age 59 1/2, tax penalties may apply. Call Retirement Plan
Services at 1-800/527-2020 for details.
SELLING SHARES
TO SELL SOME OR ALL OF YOUR SHARES
[Insert graphic of hands
shaking]
Contact your investment representative
THROUGH YOUR INVESTMENT
REPRESENTATIVE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of Send written instructions and endorsed share
envelope] certificates (if you hold share certificates)
to Investor Services. Corporate, partnership
BY MAIL or trust accounts may need to send additional
documents.
Specify the fund, the account number and the
dollar value or number of shares you wish to
sell. Be sure to include all necessary
signatures and any additional documents, as
well as signature guarantees if required.
A check will be mailed to the name(s) and
address on the account, or otherwise according
to your written instructions.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of As long as your transaction is for $100,000 or
phone] less, you do not hold share certificates and
you have not changed your address by phone
BY PHONE within the last 15 days, you can sell your
shares by phone.
1-800/632-2301
A check will be mailed to the name(s) and
address on the account. Written instructions,
with a signature guarantee, are required to
send the check to another address or to make
it payable to another person.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of 3 You can call or write to have redemption
lightning bolts] proceeds of $1,000 or more wired to a bank or
escrow account. See the policies above for
selling shares by mail or phone.
Before requesting a wire, please make sure we
BY WIRE have your bank account information on file. If
we do not have this information, you will need
to send written instructions with your bank's
name and address, your bank account number,
the ABA routing number, and a signature
guarantee.
Requests received in proper form by 1:00 p.m.
pacific time will be wired the next business
day.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of two Obtain a current prospectus for the fund you
arrows pointing in are considering.
opposite directions]
Call Shareholder Services at the number below
BY EXCHANGE or our automated TeleFACTS system, or send
signed written instructions. See the policies
TeleFACTS(R) above for selling shares by mail or phone.
1-800/247-1753
(around-the-clock If you hold share certificates, you will need
access) to return them to the fund before your
exchange can be processed.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
FRANKLIN TEMPLETON INVESTOR SERVICES 777 MARINERS ISLAND BLVD., P.O. BOX
7777, SAN MATEO, CA 94403-7777
CALL TOLL-FREE: 1-800/632-2301 (MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 5:30 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M.,
PACIFIC TIME)
[Insert graphic of paper and pen] ACCOUNT POLICIES
CALCULATING SHARE PRICE The fund calculates the net asset value per share
(NAV) each business day at the close of trading on the New York Stock
Exchange (normally 1:00 p.m. pacific time). Each class's NAV is calculated
by dividing its net assets by the number of its shares outstanding.
[Begin callout]
When you buy shares, you pay the offering price. The offering price is the
NAV plus any applicable sales charge.
When you sell shares, you receive the NAV minus any applicable contingent
deferred sales charge (CDSC).
[End callout]
The fund's assets are generally valued at their market value. If market
prices are unavailable, or if an event occurs after the close of the trading
market that materially affects the values, assets may be valued at their fair
value. If the fund holds securities listed primarily on a foreign exchange
that trades on days when the fund is not open for business, the value of your
shares may change on days that you cannot buy or sell shares.
Requests to buy and sell shares are processed at the NAV next calculated
after we receive your request in proper form.
ACCOUNTS WITH LOW BALANCES If the value of your account falls below $250
($50 for employee and UGMA/UTMA accounts) because you sell some of your
shares, we may mail you a notice asking you to bring the account back up to
its applicable minimum investment amount. If you choose not to do so within
30 days, we may close your account and mail the proceeds to the address of
record. You will not be charged a CDSC if your account is closed for this
reason.
STATEMENTS AND REPORTS You will receive confirmations and account statements
that show your account transactions. You will also receive the fund's
financial reports every six months. To reduce fund expenses, we try to
identify related shareholders in a household and send only one copy of the
financial reports. If you need additional copies, please call 1-800/DIAL BEN.
If there is a dealer or other investment representative of record on your
account, he or she will also receive confirmations, account statements and
other information about your account directly from the fund.
STREET OR NOMINEE ACCOUNTS You may transfer your shares from the street or
nominee name account of one dealer to another, as long as both dealers have
an agreement with Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. We will process the
transfer after we receive authorization in proper form from your delivering
securities dealer.
JOINT ACCOUNTS Unless you specify a different registration, accounts with
two or more owners are registered as "joint tenants with rights of
survivorship" (shown as "Jt Ten" on your account statement). To make any
ownership changes to a joint account, all owners must agree in writing,
regardless of the law in your state.
MARKET TIMERS The fund may restrict or refuse exchanges by market timers. If
accepted, each exchange by a market timer will be charged $5. You will be
considered a market timer if you have (i) requested an exchange out of the
fund within two weeks of an earlier exchange request, or (ii) exchanged
shares out of the fund more than twice in a calendar quarter, or (iii)
exchanged shares equal to at least $5 million, or more than 1% of the fund's
net assets, or (iv) otherwise made large or frequent exchanges. Shares under
common ownership or control are combined for these limits.
ADDITIONAL POLICIES Please note that the fund maintains additional policies
and reserves certain rights, including:
o The fund may refuse any order to buy shares, including any purchase under
the exchange privilege.
o At any time, the fund may change its investment minimums or waive or
lower its minimums for certain purchases.
o The fund may modify or discontinue the exchange privilege on 60 days'
notice.
o You may only buy shares of a fund eligible for sale in your state or
jurisdiction.
o In unusual circumstances, we may temporarily suspend redemptions, or
postpone the payment of proceeds, as allowed by federal securities laws.
o For redemptions over a certain amount, the fund reserves the right to
make payments in securities or other assets of the fund, in the case of an
emergency or if the payment by check would be harmful to existing
shareholders.
o To permit investors to obtain the current price, dealers are responsible
for transmitting all orders to the fund promptly.
DEALER COMPENSATION Qualifying dealers who sell fund shares may receive
sales commissions and other payments. These are paid by Franklin Templeton
Distributors, Inc. from sales charges, distribution and service (12b-1) fees
and its other resources.
CLASS A
COMMISSION (%) ---
Investment under $100,000 4.00
$100,000 but under $250,000 3.25
$250,000 but under $500,000 2.50
$500,000 but under $1 million 2.00
$1 million or more up to 0.75 1
12B-1 FEE TO DEALER 0.25
A dealer commission of up to 1% may be paid on Class A NAV purchases by
certain retirement plans1 and up to 0.25% on Class A NAV purchases by certain
trust companies and bank trust departments, eligible governmental
authorities, and broker-dealers or others on behalf of clients participating
in comprehensive fee programs.
1. During the first year after purchase, dealers may not be eligible to
receive the 12b-1 fee.
[Insert graphic of question mark] QUESTIONS
If you have any questions about the fund or your account, you can write to us
at 777 Mariners Island Blvd., P.O. Box 7777, San Mateo, CA 94403-7777. You
can also call us at one of the following numbers. For your protection and to
help ensure we provide you with quality service, all calls may be monitored
or recorded.
HOURS (PACIFIC TIME, MONDAY
DEPARTMENT NAME TELEPHONE NUMBER THROUGH FRIDAY)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Services 1-800/632-2301 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Fund Information 1-800/DIAL BEN 5:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
(1-800/342-5236) 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.
(Saturday)
Retirement Plan Services 1-800/527-2020 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Dealer Services 1-800/524-4040 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Institutional Services 1-800/321-8563 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
TDD (hearing impaired) 1-800/851-0637 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
You can learn more about the fund in the following documents:
ANNUAL/SEMIANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS
Includes a discussion of recent market conditions and fund strategies,
financial statements, detailed performance information, portfolio holdings,
and the auditor's report.
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (SAI)
Contains more information about the fund, its investments and policies. It is
incorporated by reference (is legally a part of this prospectus).
For a free copy of the current annual/semiannual report or the SAI, please
contact your investment representative or call us at the number below.
FRANKLIN(R)TEMPLETON(R)
1-800/DIAL BEN(R) (1-800/342-5236)
TDD (Hearing Impaired) 1-800/851-0637
www.franklin-templeton.com
You can also obtain information about the fund by visiting the SEC's Public
Reference Room in Washington D.C. (phone 1-800/SEC-0330) or by sending your
request and a duplicating fee to the SEC's Public Reference Section,
Washington, DC 20549-6009. You can also visit the SEC's Internet site at
http://www.sec.gov.
Investment Company Act file #
Lit. Code #159 P 02/98
PROSPECTUS
FRANKLIN
INVESTMENT GRADE INCOME FUND
Advisor Class
INVESTMENT STRATEGY INCOME
FEBRUARY 1, 1999
[Insert Franklin Templeton Ben Head]
LIKE ALL MUTUAL FUND SHARES, THE SEC HAS NOT APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THESE
SECURITIES OR PASSED UPON THE ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION
TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
CONTENTS
THE FUND
[Begin callout]
Information about the fund you should know before investing
[End callout]
[insert page #] Goal and Strategies
[insert page #] Main Risks
[insert page #] Performance
[insert page #] Fees and Expenses
[insert page #] Management
[insert page #] Distributions and Taxes
[insert page #] Financial Highlights
YOUR ACCOUNT
[Begin callout]
Information about qualified investors, account transactions and services
[End callout]
[insert page #] Qualified Investors
[insert page #] Buying Shares
[insert page #] Investor Services
[insert page #] Selling Shares
[insert page #] Account Policies
[insert page #] Questions
FOR MORE INFORMATION
[Begin callout]
Where to learn more about the fund
[End callout]
Back Cover
THE FUND
[Insert graphic of bullseye and arrows] GOAL AND STRATEGIES
GOAL The fund's investment goal is to seek a maximum level of income
consistent with prudent exposure to risk.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENTS The fund will normally invest at least 75% of total
assets in investment grade debt securities. At least 65% of its total assets
will be invested in intermediate-term securities with effective remaining
maturities between two and ten years. The fund generally invests up to 25% of
assets in debt securities issued by foreign corporations and governments,
their instrumentalities, and supranational entities.
The fund may also invest in "putable" bonds, when available on an attractive
basis. A putable bond is redeemable at face value (par) at the holder's
option on a specific date or dates before the final stated maturity. When
interest rates rise, the holder can choose to sell the bond early and
reinvest the proceeds at a higher interest rate. If interest rates decline by
the optional retirement date, the holder may either keep the higher-yielding
bond or sell it a favorable price.
[Begin callout]
The fund invests primarily in investment grade quality, intermediate-term
debt securities.
[End callout]
The fund focuses on "investment grade" securities which are issues rated in
the top four rating categories by independent rating agencies such as
Standard & Poor's Corporation (S&P) or Moody's Investors Services, Inc.
(Moody's) or, if unrated, determined by the fund's manager to be comparable.
Although the fund may invest up to 25% of total assets in non-investment
grade debt securities, it will not invest in securities rated lower than B by
S&P or Moody's.
TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS The manager may take a temporary defensive position
when the securities trading markets or the economy are experiencing excessive
volatility or a prolonged general decline, or other adverse conditions exist.
Under these circumstances, the fund may be unable to pursue its investment
goal because it may not invest or may invest less in investment grade debt
securities.
[Insert graphic of chart with line going up and down] MAIN RISKS
INTEREST RATE RISK When interest rates rise, fixed-income security prices
fall. The opposite is also true: fixed-income security prices rise when
interest rates fall. Generally, interest rates rise during times of inflation
or a growing economy, and will fall during an economic slowdown or recession.
Securities with longer maturities usually are more sensitive to interest rate
changes than securities with shorter maturities.
INCOME RISK Since the fund can only distribute what it earns, the fund's
distributions to its shareholders may decline when interest rates fall.
[Begin Callout]
Changes in interest rates affect the prices of the fund's debt securities. If
rates rise, the value of all the fund's debt securities will fall and so too
will the fund's share price. This means you could lose money.
[End Callout]
CREDIT RISK This is the possibility that an issuer will be unable to make
interest payments or repay principal. Changes in an issuer's financial
strength or in a security's credit rating may affect its value and, thus,
impact the value of fund shares.
FOREIGN SECURITIES RISK Securities of governments and companies located
outside the U.S. may offer significant opportunities for gain, but they also
involve additional risks that can increase the potential for losses in the
fund.
COUNTRY RISK. General securities market movements in any country where the
fund has investments are likely to affect the value of the securities the
fund owns which trade in that country. These movements will affect the fund's
share price.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mutual fund shares are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed or
endorsed by, any bank, and are not federally insured by the Federal Deposit
Insurance Corporation, the Federal Reserve Board, or any other agency of the
U.S. government. Although the fund tries to maintain a $1 share price, it is
possible to lose money by investing in the fund.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The political, economic and social structures of some countries the fund
invests in may be less stable and more volatile than those in the U.S. The
risks of investing in these countries include the possibility of the
imposition of exchange controls, expropriation, restrictions on removal of
currency or other assets, nationalization of assets and punitive taxes.
COMPANY RISK. Foreign companies are not subject to the same accounting,
auditing and financial reporting standards and practices as U.S. companies
and their stocks may not be as liquid as stocks of similar U.S. companies.
Foreign stock exchanges, brokers and companies generally have less government
supervision and regulation than in the U.S. The fund may have greater
difficulty voting proxies, exercising shareholder rights, pursuing legal
remedies and obtaining judgments with respect to foreign investments in
foreign courts than with respect to U.S. companies in U.S. courts.
CURRENCY RISK Many of the fund's investments are denominated in foreign
currencies. Changes in foreign currency exchange rates will affect the value
of what the fund owns and the fund's share price. Generally, when the U.S.
dollar rises in value against a foreign currency, an investment in that
country loses value because that currency is worth fewer U.S. dollars.
EURO. On January 1, 1999, the European Monetary Union (EMU) plans to
introduce a new single currency, the euro, which will replace the national
currency for participating member countries. If the fund holds investments in
countries with currencies replaced by the euro, the investment process,
including trading, foreign exchange, payments, settlements, cash accounts,
custody and accounting will be impacted.
Because this change to a single currency is new and untested, the
establishment of the euro may result in market volatility. For the same
reason, it is not possible to predict the impact of the euro on the business
or financial condition of European issuers which the fund may hold in its
portfolio, and their impact on the value of fund shares. To the extent the
fund holds non-U.S. dollar (euro or other) denominated securities, it will
still be exposed to currency risk due to fluctuations in those currencies
versus the U.S. dollar.
YEAR 2000 When evaluating current and potential portfolio positions, Year
2000 is only one of the factors the fund's manager considers.
The manager will rely upon public filings and other statements made by
companies about their Year 2000 readiness. Issuers in countries outside the
U.S. may not be required to make the same level of disclosure about Year 2000
readiness as is required in the U.S. The manager, of course, cannot audit
each company and its major suppliers to verify their Year 2000 readiness.
If a company in which the fund is invested is adversely affected by Year 2000
problems, it is likely that the price of its security will also be adversely
affected. A decrease in the value of one or more of the fund's portfolio
holdings will have a similar impact on the price of the fund's shares. Please
see page [#] for more information.
More detailed information about the fund, its policies and risks can be found
in the fund's Statement of Additional Information (SAI).
[Begin callout]
Mutual fund shares are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed or
endorsed by, any bank, and are not federally insured by the Federal Deposit
Insurance Corporation, the Federal Reserve Board, or any other agency of the
U.S. government. Mutual fund shares involve investment risks, including the
possible loss of principal.
[End callout]
[Insert graphic of a bull and a bear] PERFORMANCE
This bar chart and table show the volatility of the fund's returns, which is
one indicator of the risks of investing in the fund. The bar chart shows
changes in the fund's returns from year to year over the past 10 calendar
years. The table shows how the fund's average annual total returns compare to
those of a broad-based securities market index. Of course, past performance
cannot predict or guarantee future results.
ADVISOR CLASS ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS 1,2
[Insert bar graph]
7.24% 8.50% 7.01% 16.58% 6.16% 9.04% -1.16% 11.02% 3.49% 5.66%
88 89 90 91 92 93 94 95 96 97
YEAR
[Begin callout]
Best quarter:
Q4 '91 5.50%
Worst quarter:
Q1 '94 -1.66%
[End callout]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
For the periods ended December 31, 1997
1 YEAR 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Investment Grade Income 5.64% 5.52% 7.26%
Fund - Advisor Class 2
Lehman Brothers Government/ 9.76% 7.61% 9.15%
Corporate Bond Index 3
1. As of September 30, 1998, the fund's year-to-date return was 5.11%.
2. Performance figures reflect a "blended" figure combining the following
methods of calculation: (a) For periods before January 1, 1997, a restated
figure is used based on the fund's Class A performance, excluding the effect
of Class A's maximum initial sales charge and including the effect of the
Class A distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and (b) for periods after
January 1, 1997, an actual Advisor Class figure is used reflecting a
deduction of all applicable charges and fees for that class. This blended
figure assumes reinvestment of dividends and capital gains.
3. Source: Lehman Brothers Government/Corporate Bond Index is an unmanaged
index of fixed-rate U.S. government and foreign and domestic corporate bonds
that are rated investment grade or higher and have maturities of one year or
more and at least $50 million outstanding. One cannot invest directly in an
index, nor is an index representative of the fund's portfolio.
[Insert graphic of percentage sign] FEES AND EXPENSES
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and
hold shares of the fund. It is based on the fund's expenses for the fiscal
year ended September 30, 1998.
SHAREHOLDER FEES (FEES PAID DIRECTLY FROM YOUR INVESTMENT)
ADVISOR CLASS
---------------
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases None
Exchange fee1 None
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (EXPENSES DEDUCTED FROM FUND ASSETS)
ADVISOR CLASS
---------------
Management fees 0.50%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees None
Other expenses 0.32%
---------------
Total annual fund operating expenses 0.82%
===============
1. There is a $5 fee for each exchange by a market timer (see page #).
EXAMPLE
This example can help you compare the cost of investing in the fund with the
cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example assumes you invest $10,000 for the periods shown and then sell
all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes your
investment has a 5% return each year and the fund's operating expenses remain
the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these
assumptions your costs would be:
1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ---------------------------------------------
$84 $262 $455 $1,014
[Insert graphic of briefcase] MANAGEMENT
Franklin Advisory Services, Inc. (Advisory Services), One Parker Plaza,
Sixteenth Floor, Fort Lee, New Jersey 07013, is the fund's investment
manager. Together, Advisory Services and its affiliates manage over $208
billion in assets.
The team responsible for the fund's management is:
WILLIAM J. LIPPMAN, PRESIDENT OF ADVISORY SERVICES
Mr. Lippman has been a manager on the fund since 1987 and has more than 30
years' experience in the securities industry.
PHILIP H.W. SMITH, VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISORY SERVICES
Mr. Smith has been a manager on the fund since 1987 and has more than 30
years' experience in the securities industry.
MARGARET MCGEE, VICE PRESIDENT OF ADVISORY SERVICES
Ms. McGee has been a manager of the fund since 1988. She joined the Franklin
Templeton Group in 1988.
The fund pays the manager a fee for managing the fund's assets and making its
investment decisions. For the fiscal year ended September 30, 1998, the fund
paid 0.50% of its average monthly net assets to the manager.
YEAR 2000 PROBLEM The fund's business operations depend on a worldwide
network of computer systems that contain date fields, including securities
trading systems, securities transfer agent operations and stock market links.
Many of the systems currently use a two digit date field to represent the
date, and unless these systems are changed or modified, they may not be able
to distinguish the Year 1900 from the Year 2000 (commonly referred to as the
Year 2000 problem). In addition, the fact that the Year 2000 is a
non-standard leap year may create difficulties for some systems.
When the Year 2000 arrives, the fund's operations could be adversely affected
if the computer systems used by the manager, its service providers and other
third parties it does business with are not Year 2000 ready. For example, the
fund's portfolio and operational areas could be impacted, including
securities trade processing, interest and dividend payments, securities
pricing, shareholder account services, reporting, custody functions and
others. The fund could experience difficulties in effecting transactions if
any of its foreign subcustodians, or if foreign broker-dealers or foreign
markets are not ready for Year 2000.
The fund's manager and its affiliated service providers are making a
concerted effort to take steps they believe are reasonably designed to
address their Year 2000 problems. Of course, the fund's ability to reduce the
effects of the Year 2000 problem is also very much dependent upon the efforts
of third parties over which the fund and its manager may have no control.
[Insert graphic of dollar
signs and stacks of coins] DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
INCOME AND CAPITAL GAINS DISTRIBUTIONS The fund intends to pay a dividend at
least monthly, on or about the 15th day of the month, representing its net
investment income. Capital gains, if any, may be distributed annually. The
amount of these distributions will vary and there is no guarantee the fund
will pay dividends.
To receive a distribution, you must be a shareholder on the record date. The
record dates for the fund's distributions will vary. Please keep in mind that
if you invest in the fund shortly before the record date of a distribution,
any distribution will lower the value of the fund's shares by the amount of
the distribution and you will receive some of your investment back in the
form of a taxable distribution. If you would like information on upcoming
record dates for the fund's distributions, please call 1-800/DIAL BEN.
TAX CONSIDERATIONS In general, fund distributions are taxable to you as
either ordinary income or capital gains. This is true whether you reinvest
your distributions in additional shares of the fund or receive them in cash.
Any capital gains the fund distributes are taxable to you as long-term
capital gains no matter how long you have owned your shares.
[Begin callout]
BACKUP WITHHOLDING
By law, the fund must withhold 31% of your taxable distributions and proceeds
if you do not provide your correct taxpayer identification number (TIN) or
certify that your TIN is correct, or if the IRS instructs the fund to do so.
[End callout]
Every January, you will receive a statement that shows the tax status of
distributions you received for the previous year. Distributions declared in
December but paid in January are taxable as if they were paid in December.
When you sell your shares, you may have a capital gain or loss. For tax
purposes, an exchange of your fund shares for shares of a different Franklin
Templeton Fund is the same as a sale. The tax rate on any gain from the sale
or exchange of your shares depends on how long you have held your shares.
Fund distributions and gains from the sale or exchange of your shares will
generally be subject to state and local income tax. Non-U.S. investors may be
subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax. You should consult your tax
professional about federal, state, local or foreign tax consequences.
[Insert graphic of a dollar bill] FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
This table presents the financial performance for Advisor Class since its
inception. This information has been audited by Tait, Weller & Baker.
ADVISOR CLASS YEAR ENDED SEPTEMBER 30,
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
PER SHARE DATA ($)
Net asset value, beginning of year 9.07 9.03
------------------------
Net investment income .43 .28
Net realized and unrealized gains .19 .07
------------------------
Total from investment operations .62 .35
------------------------
Less distributions from net investment
income (.46) (.31)
------------------------
Net asset value, end of year 9.23 9.07
========================
Total return (%)2 7.02 3.98
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of year ($ x 1,000) 2,505 39
Ratios to average net assets: (%)
Expenses .82 .85 3
Net investment income 5.02 4.84 3
Portfolio turnover rate (%) 20.80 41.32
1. For the period January 2, 1997 (effective date) through September 30, 1997.
2. Total return is not annualized.
3. Annualized.
YOUR ACCOUNT
[Insert graphic of pencil marking an "X"] QUALIFIED INVESTORS
The following investors may qualify to buy Advisor Class shares of the fund.
o Qualified registered investment advisors or certified financial planners
with clients invested in any series of Franklin Mutual Series Fund Inc. on
October 31, 1996, or who buy through a broker-dealer or service agent who
has an agreement with Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc.
(Distributors). Minimum investments: $1,000 initial and $50 additional.
o Broker-dealers, registered investment advisors or certified financial
planners who have an agreement with Distributors for clients participating
in comprehensive fee programs. Minimum investments: $250,000 initial
($100,000 initial for an individual client) and $25 additional.
o Officers, trustees, directors and full-time employees of Franklin
Templeton and their immediate family members. Minimum investments: $100
initial and $25 additional.
o Each series of the Franklin Templeton Fund Allocator Series. Minimum
investments: $1,000 initial and $1,000 additional.
[Begin callout]
The FRANKLIN TEMPLETON FUNDS include all of the Franklin Templeton U.S.
registered mutual funds, except Franklin Valuemark Funds, Templeton Capital
Accumulator Fund, Inc., and Templeton Variable Products Series Fund
[End callout]
o Governments, municipalities, and tax-exempt entities that meet the
requirements for qualification under section 501 of the tax code. Minimum
investments: $1 million initial investment in Advisor Class or Class Z
shares of any of the Franklin Templeton Funds and $25 additional.
o Accounts managed by the Franklin Templeton
Group. Minimum investments: No initial minimum
and $25 additional.
o The Franklin Templeton Profit Sharing 401(k) Plan.
Minimum investments: No initial minimum and $25
additional.
o Defined contribution plans such as employer stock, bonus, pension or
profit sharing plans that meet the requirements for qualification under
section 401 of the tax code, including salary reduction plans qualified
under section 401(k) of the tax code, and that are sponsored by an
employer (i) with at least 10,000 employees, or (ii) with retirement plan
assets of $100 million or more. Minimum investments: No initial minimum
and $25 additional.
o Trust companies and bank trust departments initially investing in the
Franklin Templeton Funds at least $1 million of assets held in a
fiduciary, agency, advisory, custodial or similar capacity and over which
the trust companies and bank trust departments or other plan fiduciaries
or participants, in the case of certain retirement plans, have full or
shared investment discretion. Minimum investments: No initial minimum and
$25 additional.
o Individual investors. Minimum investments: $5 million initial and $25
additional. You may combine all of your shares in the Franklin Templeton
Funds for purposes of determining whether you meet the $5 million minimum,
as long as $1 million is in Advisor Class or Class Z shares of any of the
Franklin Templeton Funds.
o Any other investor, including a private investment vehicle such as a
family trust or foundation, who is a member of an established group of 11
or more investors. Minimum investments: $5 million initial and $25
additional. For minimum investment purposes, the group's investments are
added together. The group may combine all of its shares in the Franklin
Templeton Funds for purposes of determining whether it meets the $5
million minimum, as long as $1 million is in Advisor Class or Class Z
shares of any of the Franklin Templeton Funds. There are certain other
requirements and the group must have a purpose other than buying fund
shares without a sales charge.
Please note that Advisor Class shares of the fund are no longer available to
retirement plans through Franklin Templeton's ValuSelect(R) program.
Retirement plans in the ValuSelect program before January 1, 1998, however,
may continue to invest in the fund's Advisor Class shares.
[[Insert graphic of a paper with lines
and someone writing] BUYING SHARES
ACCOUNT APPLICATION If you are opening a new account, please complete and
sign the enclosed account application. To save time, you can sign up now for
services you may want on your account by completing the appropriate sections
of the application (see the next page).
BUYING SHARES
OPENING AN ACCOUNT ADDING TO AN ACCOUNT
[Insert graphic of
hands shaking]
Contact your investment Contact your investment
THROUGH YOUR representative representative
INVESTMENT
REPRESENTATIVE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Make your check payable to Make your check payable to
[Insert graphic Franklin Investment Grade Franklin Investment Grade
of envelope] Income Fund. Income Fund. Include your
account number on the check.
BY MAIL Mail the check and your
signed application to Fill out the deposit slip
Investor Services. from your account statement.
If you do not have a slip,
include a note with your
name, the fund name, and
your account number.
Mail the check and deposit
slip or note to Investor
Services.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic Call to receive a wire Call to receive a wire
of three control number and wire control number and wire
lightning bolts] instructions. instructions.
Mail your signed application To make a same day wire
to Investor Services. Please investment, please call us
BY WIRE include the wire control by 1:00 p.m. pacific time
number or your new account and make sure your wire
1-800/632-2301 number on the application. arrives by 3:00 p.m.
(or
1-650/312-2000 To make a same day wire
collect) investment, please call us
by 1:00 p.m. pacific time
and make sure your wire
arrives by 3:00 p.m.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic Call Shareholder Services at Call Shareholder Services at
of two arrows the number below, or send the number below, or send
pointing in signed written signed written instructions.
opposite instructions. (Please see (Please see page [#] for
directions] page [#] for information on information on exchanges.)
exchanges.)
BY EXCHANGE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FRANKLIN TEMPLETON INVESTOR SERVICES 777 MARINERS ISLAND BLVD., P.O. BOX
7777, SAN MATEO, CA 94403-7777
CALL TOLL-FREE: 1-800/632-2301 (MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 5:30 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M.,
PACIFIC TIME)
[Insert graphic of person with a headset] INVESTOR SERVICES
AUTOMATIC INVESTMENT PLAN This plan offers a convenient way for you to
invest in the fund by automatically transferring money from your checking or
savings account each month to buy shares.
DISTRIBUTION OPTIONS You may reinvest distributions you receive from the
fund in an existing account in the same share class of the fund or in Advisor
Class or Class A shares of another Franklin Templeton Fund. To reinvest your
distributions in Advisor Class shares of another Franklin Templeton Fund, you
must qualify to buy that fund's Advisor Class shares. For distributions
reinvested in Class A shares of another Franklin Templeton Fund, initial
sales charges and contingent deferred sales charges (CDSCs) will not apply if
you reinvest your distributions within 365 days. You can also have your
distributions deposited in a bank account, or mailed by check. Deposits to a
bank account may be made by electronic funds transfer.
[Begin callout]
For Franklin Templeton Trust Company retirement plans, special forms may be
needed to receive distributions in cash. Please call 1-800/527-2020 for
information.
[End callout]
Please indicate on your application the distribution option you have chosen,
otherwise we will reinvest your distributions in the same share class of the
fund.
RETIREMENT PLANS Franklin Templeton offers a variety of retirement plans for
individuals and businesses. These plans require a separate application and
their policies and procedures may be different than those described in this
prospectus. For more information, including a free retirement plan brochure
or application, please call Retirement Plan Services at 1-800/527-2020.
TELEFACTS(R) Our TeleFACTS system offers around-the-clock access to
information about your account or any Franklin Templeton Fund. This service
is available from touch-tone phones at 1-800/247-1753. For a free TeleFACTS
brochure, call 1-800/DIAL BEN.
TELEPHONE PRIVILEGES You will automatically receive telephone privileges
when you open your account, allowing you and your investment representative
to sell or exchange your shares and make certain other changes to your
account by phone.
For accounts with more than one registered owner, telephone privileges also
allow the fund to accept written instructions signed by only one owner for
transactions and account changes that could otherwise be made by phone. For
all other transactions and changes, all registered owners must sign the
instructions.
As long as we take certain measures to verify telephone requests, we will not
be responsible for any losses that may occur from unauthorized requests. Of
course, you can decline telephone exchange or redemption privileges on your
account application.
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE You can exchange shares between most Franklin Templeton
Funds within the same class. You also may exchange your Advisor Class shares
for Class A shares of a fund that does not currently offer an Advisor Class
(without any sales charge)* or for Class Z shares of Franklin Mutual Series
Fund Inc.
[Begin callout]
An EXCHANGE is really two transactions: a sale of one fund and the purchase
of another. In general, the same policies that apply to purchases and sales
apply to exchanges, including minimum investment amounts. Exchanges also have
the same tax consequences as ordinary sales and purchases.
[End callout]
If you do not qualify to buy Advisor Class shares of Templeton Developing
Markets Trust, Templeton Foreign Fund or Templeton Growth Fund, you also may
exchange your shares for Class A shares of those funds (without any sales
charge)* or for shares of Templeton Institutional Funds, Inc.
Generally exchanges may only be made between identically registered accounts,
unless you send written instructions with a signature guarantee.
Frequent exchanges can interfere with fund management or operations and drive
up costs for all shareholders. To protect shareholders, there are limits on
the number and amount of exchanges you may make (please see "Market Timers"
on page [#]).
*If you exchange into Class A shares and you later decide you would like to
exchange into a fund that offers an Advisor Class or Class Z, you may
exchange your Class A shares for Advisor Class or Class Z shares if you
otherwise qualify to buy the fund's Advisor Class or Class Z shares.
SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN This plan allows you to automatically sell your
shares and receive regular payments from your account. Certain terms and
minimums apply. To sign up, complete the appropriate section of your
application.
[Insert graphic of a certificate] SELLING SHARES
You can sell your shares at any time.
SELLING SHARES IN WRITING Requests to sell $100,000 or less can generally be
made over the phone or with a simple letter. Sometimes, however, to protect
you and the fund we will need written instructions signed by all registered
owners, with a signature guarantee for each owner, if:
[Begin callout]
A SIGNATURE GUARANTEE helps protect your account against fraud.
You can obtain a signature guarantee at most banks and securities dealers.
A notary public CANNOT provide a signature guarantee.
[End callout]
o you are selling more than $100,000 worth of shares
o you want your proceeds paid to someone who is not a registered owner
o you want to send your proceeds somewhere other than the address of
record, or preauthorized bank or brokerage firm account
o you have changed the address on your account by phone within the last 15
days
We may also require a signature guarantee on instructions we receive from an
agent, not the registered owners, or when we believe it would protect the
fund against potential claims based on the instructions received.
SELLING RECENTLY PURCHASED SHARES If you sell shares recently purchased with
a check or draft, we may delay sending you the proceeds until your check or
draft has cleared, which may take seven business days or more. A certified or
cashier's check may clear in less time.
REDEMPTION PROCEEDS Your redemption check will be sent within seven days
after we receive your request in proper form. We are not able to receive or
pay out cash in the form of currency. Redemption proceeds may be delayed if
we have not yet received your signed account application.
RETIREMENT PLANS Before you can sell shares in a Franklin Templeton Trust
Company retirement plan, you may need to complete additional forms. For
participants under age 59 1/2, tax penalties may apply. Call Retirement Plan
Services at 1-800/527-2020 for details.
SELLING SHARES
TO SELL SOME OR ALL OF YOUR SHARES
[Insert graphic
of hands shaking]
Contact your investment representative
THROUGH YOUR
INVESTMENT
REPRESENTATIVE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic of Send written instructions and endorsed share
envelope] certificates (if you hold share certificates)
to Investor Services. Corporate, partnership
BY MAIL or trust accounts may need to send additional
documents.
Specify the fund, the account number and the
dollar value or number of shares you wish to
sell. Be sure to include all necessary
signatures and any additional documents, as
well as signature guarantees if required.
A check will be mailed to the name(s) and
address on the account, or otherwise according
to your written instructions.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic As long as your transaction is for $100,000 or
of phone] less, you do not hold share certificates and
you have not changed your address by phone
BY PHONE within the last 15 days, you can sell your
shares by phone.
1-800/632-2301
A check will be mailed to the name(s) and
address on the account. Written instructions,
with a signature guarantee, are required to
send the check to another address or to make
it payable to another person.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic You can call or write to have redemption
of three proceeds of $1,000 or more wired to a bank or
lightning bolts] escrow account. See the policies above for
selling shares by mail or phone.
Before requesting a wire, please make sure we
have your bank account information on file. If
BY WIRE we do not have this information, you will need
to send written instructions with your bank's
name and address, your bank account number,
the ABA routing number, and a signature
guarantee.
Requests received in proper form by 1:00 p.m.
pacific time will be wired the next business
day.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------
[Insert graphic Obtain a current prospectus for the fund you
of two arrows are considering.
pointing in
opposite Call Shareholder Services at the number below,
directions] or send signed written instructions. See the
policies above for selling shares by mail or
BY EXCHANGE phone.
If you hold share certificates, you will need
to return them to the fund before your
exchange can be processed.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------
FRANKLIN TEMPLETON INVESTOR SERVICES 777 MARINERS ISLAND BLVD., P.O. BOX
7777, SAN MATEO, CA 94403-7777
CALL TOLL-FREE: 1-800/632-2301 (MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY 5:30 A.M. TO 5:00 P.M.,
PACIFIC TIME)
[Insert graphic of paper and pen] ACCOUNT POLICIES
CALCULATING SHARE PRICE The fund calculates the net asset value per share
(NAV) each business day at the close of trading on the New York Stock
Exchange (normally 1:00 p.m. pacific time). The NAV for Advisor Class is
calculated by dividing its net assets by the number of its shares
outstanding.
The fund's assets are generally valued at their market value. If market
prices are unavailable, or if an event occurs after the close of the trading
market that materially affects the values, assets may be valued at their fair
value. If the fund holds securities listed primarily on a foreign exchange
that trades on days when the fund is not open for business, the value of your
shares may change on days that you cannot buy or sell shares.
Requests to buy and sell shares are processed at the NAV next calculated
after we receive your request in proper form.
ACCOUNTS WITH LOW BALANCES If the value of your account falls below $250
($50 for employee accounts) because you sell some of your shares, we may mail
you a notice asking you to bring the account back up to its applicable
minimum investment amount. If you choose not to do so within 30 days, we may
close your account and mail the proceeds to the address of record.
STATEMENTS AND REPORTS You will receive confirmations and account statements
that show your account transactions. You will also receive the fund's
financial reports every six months. To reduce fund expenses, we try to
identify related shareholders in a household and send only one copy of the
financial reports. If you need additional copies, please call 1-800/DIAL BEN.
If there is a dealer or other investment representative of record on your
account, he or she will also receive confirmations, account statements and
other information about your account directly from the fund.
STREET OR NOMINEE ACCOUNTS You may transfer your shares from the street or
nominee name account of one dealer to another, as long as both dealers have
an agreement with Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. We will process the
transfer after we receive authorization in proper form from your delivering
securities dealer.
JOINT ACCOUNTS Unless you specify a different registration, accounts with
two or more owners are registered as "joint tenants with rights of
survivorship" (shown as "Jt Ten" on your account statement). To make any
ownership changes to a joint account, all owners must agree in writing,
regardless of the law in your state.
MARKET TIMERS The fund may restrict or refuse exchanges by market timers. If
accepted, each exchange by a market timer will be charged $5. You will be
considered a market timer if you have (i) requested an exchange out of the
fund within two weeks of an earlier exchange request, or (ii) exchanged
shares out of the fund more than twice in a calendar quarter, or (iii)
exchanged shares equal to at least $5 million, or more than 1% of the fund's
net assets, or (iv) otherwise made large or frequent exchanges. Shares under
common ownership or control are combined for these limits.
ADDITIONAL POLICIES Please note that the fund maintains additional policies
and reserves certain rights, including:
o The fund may refuse any order to buy shares, including any purchase under
the exchange privilege.
o At any time, the fund may change its investment minimums or waive or
lower its minimums for certain purchases.
o The fund may modify or discontinue the exchange privilege on 60 days'
notice.
o You may only buy shares of a fund eligible for sale in your state or
jurisdiction.
o In unusual circumstances, we may temporarily suspend redemptions, or
postpone the payment of proceeds, as allowed by federal securities laws.
o For redemptions over a certain amount, the fund reserves the right to
make payments in securities or other assets of the fund, in the case of an
emergency or if the payment by check would be harmful to existing
shareholders.
o To permit investors to obtain the current price, dealers are responsible
for transmitting all orders to the fund promptly.
DEALER COMPENSATION Qualifying dealers who sell Advisor Class shares may
receive up to 0.25% of the amount invested. This amount is paid by Franklin
Templeton Distributors, Inc. from its own resources.
[Insert graphic of question mark] QUESTIONS
If you have any questions about the fund or your account, you can write to us
at 777 Mariners Island Blvd., P.O. Box 7777, San Mateo, CA 94403-7777. You
can also call us at one of the following numbers. For your protection and to
help ensure we provide you with quality service, all calls may be monitored
or recorded.
HOURS (PACIFIC TIME, MONDAY
DEPARTMENT NAME TELEPHONE NUMBER THROUGH FRIDAY)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Services 1-800/632-2301 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Fund Information 1-800/DIAL BEN 5:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
(1-800/342-5236) 6:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (Saturday)
Retirement Plan Services
1-800/527-2020 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Dealer Services 1-800/524-4040 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
Institutional Services 1-800/321-8563 6:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
TDD (hearing impaired) 1-800/851-0637 5:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
You can learn more about the fund in the following documents:
ANNUAL/SEMIANNUAL REPORT TO SHAREHOLDERS
Includes a discussion of recent market conditions and fund strategies,
financial statements, detailed performance information, portfolio holdings,
and the auditor's report.
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION (SAI)
Contains more information about the fund, its investments and policies. It is
incorporated by reference (is legally a part of this prospectus).
For a free copy of the current annual/semiannual report or the SAI, please
contact your investment representative or call us at the number below.
FRANKLIN(R)TEMPLETON(R)
1-800/DIAL BEN(R) (1-800/342-5236)
TDD (Hearing Impaired) 1-800/851-0637
www.franklin-templeton.com
You can also obtain information about the fund by visiting the SEC's Public
Reference Room in Washington D.C. (phone 1-800/SEC-0330) or by sending your
request and a duplicating fee to the SEC's Public Reference Section,
Washington, DC 20549-6009. You can also visit the SEC's Internet site at
http://www.sec.gov.
Investment Company Act file #
Lit. Code #
FRANKLIN MANAGED TRUST
FRANKLIN RISING DIVIDENDS FUND - A, B & C
FRANKLIN INVESTMENT GRADE INCOME FUND - CLASS A
STATEMENT OF
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
FEBRUARY 1, 1999
777 MARINERS ISLAND BLVD., P.O. BOX 7777
SAN MATEO, CA 94403-7777 1-800/DIAL BEN(R)
This Statement of Additional Information (SAI) is not a prospectus. It
contains information in addition to the information in each fund's
prospectus. Each fund's prospectus, dated February 1, 1999, which we may
amend from time to time, contains the basic information you should know
before investing in the fund. You should read this SAI together with each
fund's prospectus.
The audited financial statements and auditor's report in the trust's Annual
Report to Shareholders, for the fiscal year ended September 30, 1998, are
incorporated by reference (are legally a part of this SAI).
For a free copy of the current prospectus or annual report, contact your
investment representative or call 1-800/DIAL BEN (1-800/342-5236).
CONTENTS
Goals and Strategies
Risks
Officers and Trustees
Management and Other Services
Portfolio Transactions
Distributions and Taxes
Organization, Voting Rights and Principal Holders
Buying and Selling Shares
Pricing Shares
The Underwriter
Performance
Miscellaneous Information
Description of Bond Ratings
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MUTUAL FUNDS, ANNUITIES, AND OTHER INVESTMENT PRODUCTS:
o ARE NOT FEDERALLY INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION,
THE FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD, OR ANY OTHER AGENCY OF THE U.S. GOVERNMENT;
o ARE NOT DEPOSITS OR OBLIGATIONS OF, OR GUARANTEED OR ENDORSED BY, ANY
BANK;
o ARE SUBJECT TO INVESTMENT RISKS, INCLUDING THE POSSIBLE LOSS OF PRINCIPAL.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GOALS AND STRATEGIES
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INVESTMENT GRADE FUND
The fund's investment goal is to seek a maximum level of income consistent
with prudent exposure to risk. This goal is fundamental, which means it may
not be changed without shareholder approval.
The fund tries to achieve its goal by investing primarily in
intermediate-term, investment grade debt securities. It may also invest in
dividend-paying common and preferred stocks.
At times, particularly during periods when the yield curve is positive, the
fund will try to provide a higher yield than that available from a money
market fund, while attempting to avoid the potential risks to principal often
associated with both non-investment grade securities and longer-term
instruments.
Below is a description of the various types of securities the fund may buy.
DEBT SECURITIES represent an obligation of the issuer to repay a loan of
money to it, and generally, provide for the payment of interest. These
include bonds, notes and debentures; commercial paper; time deposits; and
bankers' acceptances. A debt security typically has a fixed payment schedule
that obligates the issuer to pay interest to the lender and to return the
lender's money over a certain time period. A company typically meets its
payment obligations associated with its outstanding debt securities before it
declares and pays any dividend to holders of its equity securities. Bonds,
notes, debentures and commercial paper differ in the length of the issuer's
payment schedule, with bonds carrying the longest repayment schedule and
commercial paper the shortest.
The market value of debt securities generally varies in response to changes
in interest rates and the financial condition of each issuer. During periods
of declining interest rates, the value of debt securities generally
increases. Conversely, during periods of rising interest rates, the value of
such securities generally declines. These changes in market value will be
reflected in the fund's net asset value.
Independent rating organizations rate debt securities based upon their
assessment of the financial soundness of the issuer. Debt securities within
the top three categories (AAA, AA, A by Standard & Poor's Corporation (S&P)
or Aaa, Aa, A by Moody's Investors Service (Moody's)) comprise what are known
as high-grade bonds and are regarded as having a strong capacity to pay
principal and interest. Medium-grade bonds (BBB by S&P or Baa by Moody's) are
regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay principal and interest but
with greater vulnerability to adverse economic conditions and some
speculative characteristics. Debt securities rated B by Moody's are regarded
as generally lacking the characteristics of desirable investments and, in
Moody's judgment, assurance of interest and principal payments or of
maintenance of other terms of the contract over any long period of time may
be small. Debt securities rated BB or B by S&P are regarded, on balance, as
predominantly speculative with respect to the capacity to pay interest and
repay principal in accordance with the terms of the obligation. Generally, a
lower rating indicates higher risk.
The fund may invest up to 25% of its total assets in non-investment grade
securities (rated lower than BBB by S&P or Baa by Moody's). The fund,
however, will not invest in any debt securities rated lower than B by Moody's
or S&P. Similarly, the fund will not invest in any unrated debt securities
that the fund considers to be of lower comparable quality than securities
rated B by Moody's or S&P. At present, the fund does not intend to invest
more than 5% of its assets in debt securities rated below Baa by Moody's or
BBB by S&P.
Although market risks are inherent in any investment program, the fund
believes that, for securities rated "investment grade," these risks may be
reduced by the manager's careful analysis of the relative values offered
among the investment alternatives available at the time of purchase.
Moreover, while the opinion of the rating services is considered in selecting
securities rated lower than "investment grade" for the fund's portfolio, the
manager relies primarily on its own credit analysis, which consists of a
study of the existing debt issuer's capital structure, ability to service
debt and to pay dividends, and the current trend of earnings, for any such
company under consideration for investment by the fund. The net asset value
per share of the fund will fluctuate, however, as the market value of its
investment portfolio fluctuates.
Although the fund normally invests at least 65% of its total assets in
intermediate-term obligations, the fund may invest the remaining 35%, to the
extent available and permissible, in obligations with maturities that are
shorter than two years or longer than ten years at the time of purchase. The
average maturity of the debt securities in the fund's portfolio will
fluctuate depending upon the manager's judgment as to future interest rate
changes.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON RATES OF RETURN. Since 1926 bonds have typically
provided a return averaging over 2% above the inflation rate. The following
table demonstrates the real rate of return from corporate bonds rated "A" by
Moody's over the past ten years. Investors should note that the fund's
portfolio is not comprised exclusively of such bonds. Accordingly, the table
is for illustrative purposes only and is not indicative of the fund's past,
present or future performance. Moreover, historical returns are not
indicative of future returns. The source of this information is the U.S.
Bureau of Labor Statistics and Lehman Brothers:
Real Rates of Return
--------------------------------------
Lehman
Brothers Real
Corporate Inflation Rate of
A BOND INDEX1 RATE (CPI)2 RETURN
1988 ....................... 8.78% 4.42% 4.18%
1989 ....................... 14.15 4.65 9.08
1990 ....................... 7.33 6.11 1.15
1991 ....................... 18.70 3.06 15.18
1992 ....................... 8.80 2.90 5.73
1993 ....................... 12.01 2.75 9.01
1994 ....................... -4.23 2.67 -6.72
1995 ....................... 22.41 2.54 19.38
1996 ....................... 3.17 3.32 -0.15
1997 ....................... 9.72 1.70 7.89
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Average .................... 10.08 3.41 6.47
1. Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal (Lehman Brothers Corporate A Bond Index).
Investors cannot invest directly in an index.
2. Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Inflation
rate is demonstrated by annual rates of the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
PUTABLE BONDS are obligations that allow a holder to redeem the securities at
the holder's option on a date or dates before the final stated maturity. The
fund may consider the optional redemption date or dates as the effective
maturity of the obligations. When purchasing obligations that require the
obligor to repay periodically portions of the obligation before the stated
final maturity (whether by operation of a fixed known pro rata sinking fund
or, as in collateralized securities, by the periodic passing through of
variable payments made to the issuer on the underlying collateral), the
expected average life or average term of the investment may also be
considered to be its effective maturity. These are not fundamental policies
of the fund and may be changed by the fund's board of trustees.
U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES The fund may invest in all types of U.S.
government securities including: (1) U.S. Treasury obligations with varying
interest rates, maturities and dates of issuance, such as U.S. Treasury bills
(maturities of one year or less), U.S. Treasury notes (original maturities of
one to ten years) and U.S. Treasury bonds (generally original maturities of
greater than ten years); and (2) obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S.
government agencies and instrumentalities such as the Government National
Mortgage Association (GNMA), the Export-Import Bank and the Farmers Home
Administration. Some of the fund's investments will include obligations that
are supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government. In the
case of U.S. government obligations that are not backed by the full faith and
credit of the U.S. government (e.g., obligations of the Federal National
Mortgage Association (FNMA) and a Federal Home Loan Bank), the fund must look
principally to the agency issuing or guaranteeing the obligation for ultimate
repayment and may not be able to assert a claim against the United States
itself in the event the agency or instrumentality does not meet its
commitments.
FOREIGN SECURITIES Investments in debt securities issued by foreign
corporations, governments and their instrumentalities, and by supranational
entities offer potential benefits not available from investments solely in
securities issued by the U.S. government. The fund presently has no intention
of investing more than 25% of its assets in foreign debt securities. The fund
does not presently intend to buy debt securities of issuers in developing
nations.
A supranational entity is an entity designated or supported by the national
government of one or more countries to promote economic reconstruction or
development. Examples of supranational entities include, among others, the
World Bank, the European Development Bank and the Asian Development Bank.
The fund may invest in securities issued in any currency and may hold foreign
currency to the extent consistent with its goal and policies. Securities of
issuers within a given country (including Canadian provinces and their
instrumentalities) may be denominated in the currency of that or another
country, or in multinational currency units.
COLLATERALIZED OBLIGATIONS generally are bonds issued by single purpose,
stand-alone finance subsidiaries or trusts of financial institutions,
government agencies or instrumentalities, investment bankers or other similar
institutions, such as Collateralized Automobile Receivables ("CARs") and
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations ("CMOs"). The collateralized obligations
will either be issued or guaranteed by a U.S. government agency or
instrumentality rated AAA by a nationally recognized statistical rating
agency.
CARs are generally automobile loan pass-through certificates issued by single
purpose, stand alone financial subsidiaries or trusts (such as Grantor
Trusts) of financial institutions, government agencies or instrumentalities,
investment bankers or other similar institutions.
CMOs purchased by the fund may be:
(1) collateralized by pools of mortgages in which each mortgage is guaranteed
as to payment of principal and interest by an agency or instrumentality of
the U.S. government;
(2) collateralized by pools of mortgages in which payment of principal and
interest are guaranteed by the issuer and the guarantee is collateralized by
U.S. government securities; or
(3) securities in which the proceeds of the issuance are invested in mortgage
securities and payment of the principal and interest is supported by the
credit of an agency or instrumentality of the U.S. government.
DERIVATIVE SECURITIES Although the fund has no present intention of
investing in the following, it has the authority to enter into options on
securities and options on futures, which are generally considered "derivative
securities."
OPTIONS ON SECURITIES The fund may write covered call and put options and
under limited circumstances purchase certain options on securities. An
option on a security is a contract that allows the buyer of the option the
right to buy or sell a specific security at a stated price during the
option's term. The principal reason for writing call or put options is to
obtain, through the receipt of premiums, a greater current return than would
be realized on the underlying securities alone. The fund's current return can
be expected to fluctuate because opportunities to realize net gains from a
covered call and put option writing program and income yields vary as
economic and market conditions change. The fund may receive a higher or lower
total return from its positions in options than it would have received from
its underlying securities if they had not been subject to options.
The fund does not engage in option writing strategies for speculative
purposes, and writes call and put options on a covered basis only.
The fund may also purchase call and put options on securities, but only for
limited purposes. The fund may purchase put options only on U.S. government
securities in its portfolio in anticipation of a decline in the market value
of such securities and then only in amounts not exceeding 10% of its total
assets. The fund's ability to purchase put options allows it to protect
unrealized gains in appreciated U.S. government securities in its portfolio
without actually selling the securities and while continuing to receive
interest income on the securities.
The writing and purchasing of options is a highly specialized activity that
involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with
ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The fund will pay brokerage
commissions or spreads in connection with its options transactions, as well
as for purchases and sales of underlying securities. The writing of options
could result in significant increases in the fund's portfolio turnover rate.
OPTIONS ON FUTURES The fund may purchase put and call options on interest
rate futures contracts that are traded on exchanges licensed and regulated by
the Commodities Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) for the purposes of options
trading. The fund may not purchase or sell options on interest rate futures
contracts if immediately thereafter the value of those contracts would
constitute more than 30% of the fund's total assets or if the sum of the
premiums paid for the options would exceed 5% of the fund's total assets.
A "call" option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right, in
return for the premium paid, to purchase a futures contract (assume a "long"
position) at a specified exercise price at any time before the option
expires. A "put" option gives the purchaser the right, in return for the
premium paid, to sell a futures contract (assume a "short" position) for a
specified exercise price at any time before the option expires. Interest rate
futures contracts are contracts for the future delivery of U.S. government
securities and index-based futures contracts that are, in the opinion of the
manager, sufficiently correlated with the fund's portfolio to permit
effective hedging against adverse changes in interest rates.
Upon the exercise of a call option, the writer of the option is obligated to
sell the futures contract (I.E., to deliver a "long" position to the fund as
the option holder) at the option exercise price, which will presumably be
lower than the current market price of the contract in the futures market.
Upon exercise of a put option, the writer of the option is obligated to
purchase the futures contract (I.E., deliver a "short" position to the fund
as the option holder) at the option exercise price, which will presumably be
higher than the current market price of the contract in the futures market.
The fund is entitled to be paid the amount of any gain realized by it with
respect to any option it has purchased upon the exercise of the option. Most
participants in the options markets, however, do not seek to realize their
gains or losses by exercise of their options rights. Instead, the holder of
an option will usually realize a gain or loss by buying or selling an
offsetting option at a market price that will reflect an increase or a
decrease from the premium originally paid. The fund's ability to establish
and close out options positions at fairly established prices is subject to
the maintenance of a liquid market.
If the fund purchases an option on a futures contract, it may obtain benefits
similar to those that would result if it held the futures position itself.
But, in contrast to a futures transaction in which only transaction costs are
involved, the benefits received in an option transaction will be reduced by
the amount of the premium and transaction costs paid by the fund. There may
also be circumstances when the purchase of an option on an interest rate
futures contract would result in a loss to the fund when the purchase (or
sale) of the futures contract itself would not result in a loss, such as when
there is no movement in the price of the futures contract or the underlying
security. In the event of an adverse market movement, however, the fund will
not be subject to a risk of loss on the option transaction beyond the price
of the premium paid, plus any transaction costs.
LIMITATIONS ON FUTURES TRANSACTIONS The fund has represented to the CFTC that
it will not purchase any options on interest rate futures contracts if, as a
result, the sum of premiums paid for the options the fund has purchased would
exceed 5% of the fund's total assets. This limitation on the fund's options
transactions is not fundamental and may be changed by the board of trustees
as the CFTC permits.
U.S. TREASURY ROLLS The fund may enter into "U.S. Treasury rolls" in which
the fund sells outstanding U.S. Treasury securities and buys back
"when-issued" U.S. Treasury securities of slightly longer maturity for
simultaneous settlement on the settlement date of the "when-issued" U.S.
Treasury security. Two potential advantages of this strategy are (1) the fund
can regularly and incrementally adjust its weighted average maturity (which
otherwise would constantly diminish with the passage of time); and (2) in a
normal yield curve environment (in which shorter maturities yield less than
longer maturities), a gain in yield to maturity can be obtained along with
the desired extension.
During the period before the settlement date, the fund continues to earn
interest on the securities it is selling. It does not earn interest on the
securities that it is purchasing until after the settlement date. The fund
could suffer an opportunity loss if the counterparty to the roll failed to
perform its obligations on the settlement date, and if market conditions
changed adversely. The fund intends, however, to enter into U.S. Treasury
rolls only with government securities dealers recognized by the Federal
Reserve Board or with member banks of the Federal Reserve System.
BORROWING The fund may borrow money only from banks for temporary or
emergency purposes in amounts not to exceed 15% of the fund's total assets,
and additional investments may not be made while any amounts borrowed are in
excess of 5% of the fund's total assets.
Rising Dividends Fund
The fund's investment goal is long-term capital appreciation. This goal is
fundamental, which means it may not be changed without shareholder approval.
Preservation of capital, while not an objective, is also an important
consideration. Incidental to seeking its investment goal of long-term
capital appreciation, the fund seeks current income.
The fund invests primarily in financially sound companies that have paid
consistently rising dividends. The fund's manager believes that because of
these companies' dividend records, their securities have a strong potential
to increase in value. The manager believes that a focus on companies with a
pattern of rising dividends will help the fund attain its goal of long-term
capital appreciation. In addition, because capital preservation is an
important consideration, the manager also reviews a company's stability and
the strength of its balance sheet in selecting among eligible growth
companies generally. The manager also considers other factors, such as
return on shareholder's equity, rate of earnings growth, and anticipated
price/earnings ratios, in selecting investments for the fund.
The fund diversifies its investments among different companies in different
industry segments, with no more than 25% of the fund's portfolio concentrated
in any one industry.
The following is a description of the various types of securities the fund
may buy.
FOREIGN SECURITIES The fund may invest in foreign securities, generally by
purchasing sponsored or unsponsored American Depositary Receipts (ADRs),
Global Depositary Receipts (GDRs), and European Depositary Receipts (EDRs).
The fund may also purchase the securities of foreign issuers directly in
foreign markets if, in the manager's judgment, an established public trading
market exists. The fund currently intends to limit its foreign investments
to no more than 10% of its net assets.
The fund does not consider securities that it acquires outside of the U.S.
and that are publicly traded in the U.S. or on a foreign securities market to
be illiquid assets if (a) the fund reasonably believes it can readily dispose
of the securities for cash in the U.S. or foreign market, or (b) current
market quotations are readily available.
DEPOSITARY RECEIPTS. ADRs are typically issued by a U.S. bank or trust
company and evidence ownership of underlying securities issued by a foreign
corporation. EDRs and GDRs are typically issued by foreign banks or trust
companies, although they may be issued by U.S. banks or trust companies, and
evidence ownership of underlying securities issued by either a foreign or a
U.S. corporation. Generally, depositary receipts in registered form are
designed for use in the U.S. securities market, and depositary receipts in
bearer form are designed for use in securities markets outside the U.S.
Depositary receipts may not necessarily be denominated in the same currency
as the underlying securities into which they may be converted.
Depositary receipts may be issued pursuant to sponsored or unsponsored
programs. In sponsored programs, an issuer has made arrangements to have its
securities traded in the form of depositary receipts. In unsponsored
programs, the issuer may not be directly involved in the creation of the
program. Although regulatory requirements with respect to sponsored and
unsponsored programs are generally similar, in some cases it may be easier to
obtain financial information from an issuer that has participated in the
creation of a sponsored program. Accordingly, there may be less information
available regarding issuers of securities underlying unsponsored programs,
and there may not be a correlation between such information and the market
value of the depositary receipts.
BOTH FUNDS
The following is a description of the various types of securities each fund
may buy.
EQUITY SECURITIES Equity securities generally entitle the holder to
participate in a company's general operating results. The purchaser of an
equity security typically receives an ownership interest in the company as
well as certain voting rights. The owner of an equity security may
participate in a company's success through the receipt of dividends, which
are distributions of earnings by the company to its owners. Equity security
owners may also participate in a company's success or lack of success through
increases or decreases in the value of the company's shares as traded in the
public trading market for such shares. Equity securities generally take the
form of common stock, preferred stock, securities convertible into common
stocks, or rights or warrants to subscribe for or purchase common stocks.
Preferred stockholders typically receive greater dividends but may receive
less appreciation than common stockholders and may have greater voting rights
as well. Warrants or rights give the holder the right to buy a common stock
at a given time for a specified price. The Investment Grade Fund will not
invest in any equity securities of an issuer if a majority of the issuer's
debt securities are rated lower than B by Moody's or S&P.
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS In a repurchase agreement, a fund buys U.S. government
securities from a bank or broker-dealer at one price and agrees to sell them
back to the bank or broker-dealer at a higher price on a specified date. The
fund's custodian bank holds the securities subject to resale on behalf of the
fund. The bank or broker-dealer must transfer to the custodian securities
with an initial market value of at least 102% of the repurchase price to help
secure the obligation to repurchase the securities at a later date. The
securities are then marked to market daily to maintain coverage of at least
100%. If the bank or broker-dealer does not repurchase the securities as
agreed, the fund may experience a loss or delay in the liquidation of the
securities underlying the repurchase agreement and may also incur liquidation
costs. The funds, however, intend to enter into repurchase agreements only
with banks or broker-dealers that the manager considers creditworthy.
SECURITIES LENDING Each fund may lend to broker-dealers portfolio securities
with an aggregate market value up to 30% of its total assets. Each fund
currently intends to limit its lending of securities to no more than 5% of
its total assets. Such loans must be secured by collateral (consisting of
any combination of cash, U.S. government securities or irrevocable letters of
credit) in an amount at least equal (on a daily marked-to-market basis) to
the current market value of the securities loaned. A fund may terminate a
loan at any time and obtain the return of the securities. A fund will
continue to receive any interest or dividends paid on the loaned securities
and will continue to have voting rights with respect to the securities.
However, as with other extensions of credit, there are risks of delay or even
loss of rights in the collateral should the borrower fail.
ILLIQUID INVESTMENTS Each fund's policy is not to invest more than 10% of
its net assets in illiquid securities. Illiquid securities are generally
securities that cannot be sold within seven days in the normal course of
business at approximately the amount at which the fund has valued them.
TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS When the manager believes that the securities trading
markets or the economy are experiencing excessive volatility or a prolonged
general decline, or other adverse conditions exist, it may invest each fund's
portfolio in a temporary defensive manner. Under such circumstances, each
fund may invest up to 100% of its assets in U.S. government securities, bank
CDs, bankers' acceptances and high-grade commercial paper issued by domestic
corporations, and commercial deposits or equivalents.
INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS Each fund has adopted the following restrictions as
fundamental policies. This means they may only be changed if the change is
approved by (i) more than 50% of the fund's outstanding shares or (ii) 67% or
more of the fund's shares present at a shareholder meeting if more than 50%
of the fund's outstanding shares are represented at the meeting in person or
by proxy, whichever is less.
Each fund may not:
1. Invest in the securities of any one issuer (other than the U.S. government
and its agencies and instrumentalities), if immediately after and as a result
of such investment (a) more than 5% of the total assets of the fund would be
invested in such issuer or (b) more than 10% of the outstanding voting
securities of such issuer would be owned by the fund.
2. Make loans to others, except (a) through the purchase of debt securities
in accordance with its investment objectives and policies, (b) through the
lending of its portfolio securities as described above and in its prospectus,
or (c) to the extent the entry into a repurchase agreement is deemed to be a
loan.
3. (a) Borrow money, except temporarily for extraordinary or emergency
purposes from a bank and then not in excess of 15% of its total assets (at
the lower of cost or fair market value) or (b) mortgage, pledge or
hypothecate any of its assets except in connection with any such borrowings.
Any such borrowing will be made only if immediately thereafter there is an
asset coverage of at least 300% of all borrowings, and no additional
investments may be made while any such borrowings are in excess of 5% of
total assets.
4. Purchase securities on margin, sell securities short, participate on a
joint or joint and several basis in any securities trading account, or
underwrite securities. (Does not preclude a fund from obtaining such
short-term credit as may be necessary for the clearance of purchases and
sales of its portfolio securities.)
5. Buy or sell interests in oil, gas or mineral exploration or development
programs, or real estate. (Does not preclude investments in marketable
securities of companies engaged in such activities.)
6. Purchase or hold securities of any issuer if, at the time of purchase or
thereafter, any of the trustees or officers of the trust or the manager own
beneficially more than one-half of 1%, and all such trustees or officers
holding more than one-half of 1% together own beneficially more than 5% of
the issuer's securities.
7. Purchase or sell commodities or commodity contracts or invest in put,
call, straddle or spread options. (Does not preclude bona fide hedging
transactions by the Investment Grade Fund, including the purchase or sale of
options and options on futures contracts.)
8. Invest more than 10% of its assets in securities with legal or contractual
restrictions on resale, securities which are not readily marketable, and
repurchase agreements with more than seven days to maturity.
9. Invest in any issuer for purposes of exercising control or management.
10. Invest more than 25% of the market value of its assets in the securities
of companies engaged in any one industry. (Does not apply to investment in
the securities of the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities.)
Each fund presently has the following additional restrictions, which are not
fundamental and may be changed without shareholder approval.
Each fund may not:
1. Invest more than 5% of the value of its total assets in securities of any
issuer which has not had a record, together with predecessors, of at least
three years of continuous operation.
2. With respect to the Investment Grade Fund, invest in securities of other
investment companies, except as they may be acquired as part of a merger,
consolidation or acquisition of assets. With respect to the Rising Dividends
Fund, it may invest up to 10% of its assets in the securities of other
investment companies, subject to the limitations of the Investment Company
Act of 1940 (1940 Act), or more as they may be acquired pursuant to a merger,
consolidation or acquisition of assets.
3. Issue senior securities, as defined in the 1940 Act, except that this
restriction shall not be deemed to prohibit any fund from (a) making any
permitted borrowings, mortgages or pledges, or (b) entering into repurchase
transactions.
The Rising Dividends Fund may also be subject to investment limitations
imposed by foreign jurisdictions in which the fund sells its shares.
If a bankruptcy or other extraordinary event occurs concerning a particular
security a fund owns, the fund may receive stock, real estate, or other
investments that the fund would not, or could not, buy. If this happens, the
fund intends to sell such investments as soon as practicable while maximizing
the return to shareholders.
If a percentage restriction is met at the time of investment, a later
increase or decrease in the percentage due to a change in the value or
liquidity of portfolio securities or the amount of assets will not be
considered a violation of any of the foregoing restrictions.
RISKS
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INTEREST RATE RISK Because the Investment Grade Fund invests primarily in
debt securities, changes in interest rates in any country where the fund is
invested will affect the value of the fund's portfolio and, consequently, its
share price. Rising interest rates, which often occur during times of
inflation or a growing economy, are likely to cause the face value of a debt
security to decrease, having a negative effect on the value of the fund's
shares. Of course, interest rates have increased and decreased, sometimes
very dramatically, in the past. These changes are likely to occur again in
the future at unpredictable times.
LOWER-RATED SECURITIES Although they may offer higher yields than do higher
rated securities, low rated and unrated debt securities in which the
Investment Grade Fund may invest generally involve greater volatility of
price and risk to principal and income, including the possibility of default
by, or bankruptcy or, the issuers of the securities. In addition, the markets
in which low rated and unrated debt securities are traded are more limited
than those in which higher rated securities are traded. The existence of
limited markets for particular securities may diminish the fund's ability to
sell the securities at fair value either to meet redemption requests or to
respond to a specific economic event such as a deterioration in the
creditworthiness of the issuer. Reduced secondary market liquidity for
certain low rated or unrated debt securities may also make it more difficult
for the fund to obtain accurate market quotations for the purposes of valuing
the fund's portfolio. Market quotations are generally available on many low
rated or unrated securities only from a limited number of dealers and may not
necessarily represent firm bids of such dealers or prices for actual sales.
Adverse publicity and investor perceptions, whether or not based on
fundamental analysis, may decrease the values and liquidity of low rated debt
securities, especially in a thinly traded market. Analysis of the
creditworthiness of issuers of low rated debt securities may be more complex
than for issuers of higher rated securities. The ability of the fund to
achieve its investment goal may, to the extent of investment in low rated
debt securities, be more dependent upon such creditworthiness analysis than
would be the case if the fund were invested in higher rated securities.
Low rated debt securities may be more susceptible to real or perceived
adverse economic and competitive industry conditions than investment grade
securities. The prices of low rated debt securities have been found to be
less sensitive to interest rate changes than higher rated investments, but
more sensitive to adverse economic downturns or individual corporate
developments. A projection of an economic downturn or of a period of rising
interest rates, for example, could cause a decline in low rated debt
securities prices because the advent of a recession could lessen the ability
of a highly leveraged company to make principal and interest payments on its
debt securities. If the issuer of low rated debt securities defaults, the
fund may incur additional expenses to seek recovery.
FOREIGN SECURITIES The value of foreign (and U.S.) securities is affected by
general economic conditions and individual company and industry earnings
prospects. While foreign securities may offer significant opportunities for
gain, they also involve additional risks that can increase the potential for
losses in the funds. These risks can be significantly greater for investments
in emerging markets. Investments in depositary receipts also involve some or
all of the risks described below.
There is the possibility of cessation of trading on national exchanges,
expropriation, nationalization of assets, confiscatory or punitive taxation,
withholding and other foreign taxes on income or other amounts, foreign
exchange controls (which may include suspension of the ability to transfer
currency from a given country), restrictions on removal of assets, political
or social instability, or diplomatic developments that could affect
investments in securities of issuers in foreign nations.
There may be less publicly available information about foreign companies
comparable to the reports and ratings published about companies in the U.S.
Foreign companies are not generally subject to uniform accounting or
financial reporting standards, and auditing practices and requirements may
not be comparable to those applicable to U.S. companies. A fund, therefore,
may encounter difficulty in obtaining market quotations for purposes of
valuing its portfolio and calculating its net asset value.
Certain countries' financial markets and services are less developed than
those in the U.S. or other major economies. In many foreign countries there
is less government supervision and regulation of stock exchanges, brokers,
and listed companies than in the U.S. Foreign markets have substantially less
volume than the New York Stock Exchange and securities of some foreign
companies are less liquid and more volatile than securities of comparable
U.S. companies. Commission rates in foreign countries, which are generally
fixed rather than subject to negotiation as in the U.S., are likely to be
higher. Settlement practices may be cumbersome and result in delays that may
affect portfolio liquidity. The funds may have greater difficulty voting
proxies, exercising shareholder rights, pursuing legal remedies, and
obtaining judgments with respect to foreign investments in foreign courts
than with respect to domestic issuers in U.S. courts.
A fund's investments in foreign securities may increase the risks with
respect to the liquidity of the fund's portfolio. This could inhibit the
fund's ability to meet a large number of shareholder redemption requests in
the event of economic or political turmoil in a country in which the fund has
a substantial portion of its assets invested or deterioration in relations
between the U.S. and the foreign country.
Investments in companies domiciled in developing countries may be subject to
potentially higher risks than investments in developed countries. These risks
include (i) less economic stability; (ii) political and social uncertainty
(for example, regional conflicts and risk of war); (iii) pervasiveness of
corruption and crime; (iv) the small current size of the markets for such
securities and the currently low or nonexistent volume of trading, which
result in a lack of liquidity and in greater price volatility; (v) delays in
settling portfolio transactions; (vi) risk of loss arising out of the system
of share registration and custody; (vii) certain national policies that may
restrict the funds' investment opportunities, including restrictions on
investment in issuers or industries deemed sensitive to national interests;
(viii) foreign taxation; (ix) the absence of developed legal structures
governing private or foreign investment or allowing for judicial redress for
injury to private property; (x) the absence of a capital market structure or
market-oriented economy; and (xi) the possibility that recent favorable
economic developments may be slowed or reversed by unanticipated political or
social events.
In addition, many countries in which the funds may invest 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 negative effects on the economies and securities markets of
certain countries. Moreover, the economies of some developing countries may
differ favorably or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as
growth of gross domestic product, rate of inflation, currency depreciation,
capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency, and balance of payments
position.
CURRENCY RISK The funds' management endeavors to buy and sell foreign
currencies on as favorable a basis as practicable. Some price spread in
currency exchange (to cover service charges) may be incurred, particularly
when a fund changes investments from one country to another or when proceeds
of the sale of shares in U.S. dollars are used for the purchase of securities
in foreign countries. Some countries may adopt policies that would prevent
the funds from transferring cash out of the country or withhold portions of
interest and dividends at the source.
The funds may be affected either unfavorably or favorably by fluctuations in
the relative rates of exchange between the currencies of different nations,
by exchange control regulations, and by indigenous economic and political
developments. Some countries in which the funds may invest may also have
fixed or managed currencies that are not free-floating against the U.S.
dollar. Certain currencies may not be internationally traded.
Certain currencies have experienced a steady 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. Through
the funds' flexible policy, management endeavors to avoid unfavorable
consequences and to take advantage of favorable developments in particular
nations where, from time to time, it places the funds' investments.
The exercise of this flexible policy may include decisions to purchase
securities with substantial risk characteristics and other decisions such as
changing the emphasis on investments from one nation to another and from one
type of security to another. Some of these decisions may later prove
profitable and others may not. No assurance can be given that profits, if
any, will exceed losses.
The funds' board of trustees considers at least annually the likelihood of
the imposition by any foreign government of exchange control restrictions
that would affect the liquidity of the funds' assets maintained with
custodians in foreign countries, as well as the degree of risk from political
acts of foreign governments to which such assets may be exposed. The board of
trustees also considers the degree of risk involved through the holding of
portfolio securities in domestic and foreign securities depositories.
However, in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith, or gross
negligence on the part of the funds' manager, any losses resulting from the
holding of the funds' portfolio securities in foreign countries and/or with
securities depositories will be at the risk of the shareholders. No assurance
can be given that the board of trustees' appraisal of the risks will always
be correct or that such exchange control restrictions or political acts of
foreign governments might not occur.
EURO RISK On January 1, 1999, the European Monetary Union (EMU) plans to
introduce a new single currency, the euro, which will replace the national
currency for participating member countries. The transition and the
elimination of currency risk among EMU countries may change the economic
environment and behavior of investors, particularly in European markets.
Franklin Resources, Inc. has created an interdepartmental team to handle all
euro-related changes to enable the Franklin Templeton Funds to process
transactions accurately and completely with minimal disruption to business
activities. While the implementation of the euro could have a negative effect
on the fund, the fund's manager and its affiliated services providers are
taking steps they believe are reasonably designed to address the euro issue.
COLLATERALIZED AUTOMOBILE RECEIVABLES (CARS) Because CARs are asset-backed
securities, they have certain risks not presented by mortgage-backed
securities. Asset-backed securities do not have the benefit of the same type
of security interests in the related collateral. In the case of automobile
receivables, there is a risk that the holders may not have either a proper or
first security interest in all of the obligations backing the receivables due
to the large number of vehicles involved in a typical issuance and technical
requirements under state laws. Therefore, recoveries on repossessed
collateral may not always be available to support payments on the securities.
COLLATERALIZED MORTGAGE OBLIGATIONS (CMOS) CMOs and other mortgage-backed
securities differ from conventional bonds in that the principal is paid back
over the life of the certificate rather than at maturity. As a result, the
Investment Grade Fund will receive monthly scheduled payments of principal
and interest on its investment in these securities, and may receive
unscheduled principal payments representing prepayments on the underlying
mortgages. When the fund reinvests the payments and any unscheduled
prepayments of principal it receives, it may receive a rate of interest which
is lower than the rate on the existing security. For this reason,
mortgage-backed securities may be less effective than other types of U.S.
government securities as a means of "locking in" long-term interest rates.
The market value of mortgage-backed securities, like other U.S. government
securities in the Investment Grade Fund's portfolio, will generally vary
inversely with changes in market interest rates, declining when interest
rates rise and rising when interest rates decline. However, mortgage-backed
securities, while having comparable risk of decline in value during periods
of rising rates, may have less potential for capital appreciation than other
investments of comparable maturities due to the likelihood of increased
prepayments of mortgages as interest rates decline. To the extent these
securities are purchased at a premium, mortgage foreclosures and unscheduled
principal prepayments may result in some loss of the fund's principal
investment to the extent of the premium paid.
OPTIONS AND OPTIONS ON FUTURES Purchasing call and put options involves the
risk that the price of the underlying securities or interest rate futures
contracts will not move in the anticipated direction during the option
periods, and that the fund may lose all or some portion of the amount of the
premiums it has paid (plus transaction costs). Options on interest rate
futures contracts involve a somewhat greater risk because a liquid market for
these options may not exist to permit the fund to establish or close out its
positions. Although the Investment Grade Fund generally will purchase only
options for which there appears to be an active market, there is no assurance
that a liquid market on any exchange will exist for any particular option or
at any particular time.
The principal risk with respect to writing covered call and put options is
the Investment Grade Fund's possible inability to effect closing transactions
at favorable prices. By writing the option, the fund agrees to buy or sell
the security at a specified price during a specified period, and, until the
option lapses (I.E., the specified period expires or the option is exercised)
or is canceled by a closing transaction, the fund cannot sell the covering
security to recognize a profit (or limit a loss). In addition, if the price
of the underlying security does not move in the anticipated direction, the
fund will have to sell or buy the covering security at a price that is below
market (in the case of a security sold upon the exercise of a written call
option) or buy the covering security at a price that is above market (in the
case of a security purchased upon the exercise of a written put option)
unless the fund can close out its optioned position prior to the option
exercise date. Moreover, until an option lapses or is canceled by a closing
transaction, the maximum sales price the fund may realize on a security
subject to an option is limited to the option price. If the fund is unable to
effect a closing sale transaction with respect to options it has purchased,
it would have to exercise the options in order to realize any profit and may
incur transaction costs upon the purchase or sale of underlying securities.
The fund continues, however, to bear the risk of a decline in the price of a
security subject to an option during the option period, although any
potential loss during that period would be reduced by the amount of the
option premium received. The fund expects to purchase and write only exchange
traded options until such time as the manager determines that the
over-the-counter market in options is sufficiently developed.
OFFICERS AND TRUSTEES
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The trust has a board of trustees. The board is responsible for the overall
management of the trust, including general supervision and review of each
fund's investment activities. The board, in turn, elects the officers of the
trust who are responsible for administering the trust's day-to-day
operations. The board also monitors each fund to ensure no material conflicts
exist among share classes. While none is expected, the board will act
appropriately to resolve any material conflict that may arise.
The affiliations of the officers and board members and their principal
occupations for the past five years are shown below.
POSITION(S)
HELD WITH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION(S)
NAME, AGE AND ADDRESS THE TRUST DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS
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Frank T. Crohn (74)
P.O. Box 810516
Boca Raton, FL 33481
Trustee
Chairman, Eastport Lobster & Fish Company; Director, Unity Mutual Life
Insurance Company; trustee of two of the investment companies in the Franklin
Templeton Group of Funds; and FORMERLY, Chairman, Financial Benefit Life
Insurance Company and Director, AmVestors Financial Corporation.
*William J. Lippman (73)
One Parker Plaza, 16th Floor
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
President, Chief Executive Officer and Trustee
Senior Vice President, Franklin Resources, Inc. and Franklin Management,
Inc.; President and Director, Franklin Advisory Services, Inc.; and officer
and/or director or trustee, as the case may be, of six of the investment
companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Charles Rubens II (68)
18 Park Road
Scarsdale, NY 10583
Trustee
Private investor; and trustee of three of the investment companies in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Leonard Rubin (73)
2 Executive Drive
Suite 560
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
Trustee
Partner in LDR Equities, LLC (manages various personal investments); Vice
President, Trimtex Co., Inc. (manufactures and markets specialty fabrics);
trustee or director, as the case may be, of three of the investment companies
in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds; and FORMERLY, Chairman of the
Board, Carolace Embroidery Co., Inc. and President, F.N.C. Textiles, Inc.
Harmon E. Burns (53)
777 Mariners Island Blvd.
San Mateo, CA 94404
Vice President
Executive Vice President and Director, Franklin Resources, Inc., Franklin
Templeton Distributors, Inc. and Franklin Templeton Services, Inc.; Executive
Vice President, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Director, Franklin/Templeton
Investor Services, Inc.; and officer and/or director or trustee, as the case
may be, of most of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of
53 of the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Martin L. Flanagan (38)
777 Mariners Island Blvd.
San Mateo, CA 94404
Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Franklin Resources, Inc.;
Executive Vice President and Director, Templeton Worldwide, Inc.; Executive
Vice President, Chief Operating Officer and Director, Templeton Investment
Counsel, Inc.; Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Franklin
Advisers, Inc.; Chief Financial Officer, Franklin Advisory Services, Inc. and
Franklin Investment Advisory Services, Inc.; President and Director, Franklin
Templeton Services, Inc.; Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer,
Franklin/Templeton Investor Services, Inc.; officer and/or director of some
of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc.; and officer and/or
director or trustee, as the case may be, of 53 of the investment companies in
the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Deborah R. Gatzek (50)
777 Mariners Island Blvd.
San Mateo, CA 94404
Vice President and Secretary
Senior Vice President and General Counsel, Franklin Resources, Inc.; Senior
Vice President, Franklin Templeton Services, Inc. and Franklin Templeton
Distributors, Inc.; Executive Vice President, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Vice
President, Franklin Advisory Services, Inc.; Vice President, Chief Legal
Officer and Chief Operating Officer, Franklin Investment Advisory Services,
Inc.; and officer of 53 of the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton
Group of Funds.
Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. (58)
777 Mariners Island Blvd.
San Mateo, CA 94404
Vice President
Executive Vice President and Director, Franklin Resources, Inc. and Franklin
Templeton Distributors, Inc.; President and Director, Franklin Advisers,
Inc.; Senior Vice President and Director, Franklin Advisory Services, Inc.
and Franklin Investment Advisory Services, Inc.; Director, Franklin/Templeton
Investor Services, Inc.; and officer and/or director or trustee, as the case
may be, of most of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of
53 of the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Diomedes Loo-Tam (59)
777 Mariners Island Blvd.
San Mateo, CA 94404
Treasurer and Principal Accounting Officer
Senior Vice President, Franklin Templeton Services, Inc.; and officer of 32
of the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Edward V. McVey (61)
777 Mariners Island Blvd.
San Mateo, CA 94404
Vice President
Senior Vice President and National Sales Manager, Franklin Templeton
Distributors, Inc.; and officer of 28 of the investment companies in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
R. Martin Wiskemann (72)
777 Mariners Island Blvd.
San Mateo, CA 94404
Vice President
Senior Vice President, Portfolio Manager and Director, Franklin Advisers,
Inc.; Senior Vice President, Franklin Management, Inc.; Vice President and
Director, ILA Financial Services, Inc.; and officer and/or director or
trustee, as the case may be, of 15 of the investment companies in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
*This board member is considered an "interested person" under federal
securities laws.
The trust pays noninterested board members $1,800 per quarter plus $900 per
meeting attended. Noninterested board members may also serve as directors or
trustees of other funds in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds and may
receive fees from these funds for their services. The following table
provides the total fees paid to noninterested board members by the trust and
by other funds in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
NUMBER OF BOARDS IN
TOTAL FEES TOTAL FEES RECEIVED THE FRANKLIN
RECEIVED FROM THE FRANKLIN TEMPLETON GROUP OF
FROM THE FUND 1 TEMPLETON GROUP OF FUNDS ON WHICH EACH
NAME FUNDS 2 SERVES 3
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frank T. Crohn $20,400 2
Charles Rubens, II $21,900 3
Leonard Rubin $40,400 3
1. For the fiscal year ended September 30, 1998.
2. For the calendar year ended December 31, 1997.
3. We base the number of boards on the number of registered investment
companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. This number does not
include the total number of series or funds within each investment company
for which the board members are responsible. The Franklin Templeton Group of
Funds currently includes 54 registered investment companies, with
approximately 168 U.S. based funds or series.
Noninterested board members are reimbursed for expenses incurred in
connection with attending board meetings, paid pro rata by each fund in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds for which they serve as director or
trustee. No officer or board member received any other compensation,
including pension or retirement benefits, directly or indirectly from the
funds or other funds in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. Certain
officers or board members who are shareholders of Franklin Resources, Inc.
may be deemed to receive indirect remuneration by virtue of their
participation, if any, in the fees paid to its subsidiaries.
MANAGEMENT AND OTHER SERVICES
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MANAGER AND SERVICES PROVIDED The funds' manager is Franklin Advisory
Services, Inc. The manager is wholly owned by Franklin Resources, Inc.
(Resources), a publicly owned company engaged in the financial services
industry through its subsidiaries. Charles B. Johnson and Rupert H. Johnson,
Jr. are the principal shareholders of Resources.
The manager provides investment research and portfolio management services,
and selects the securities for each fund to buy, hold or sell. The manager
also selects the brokers who execute each fund's portfolio transactions. The
manager provides periodic reports to the funds' board, which reviews and
supervises the manager's investment activities. To protect the funds, the
manager and its officers, directors and employees are covered by fidelity
insurance.
The manager and its affiliates manage numerous other investment companies and
accounts. The manager may give advice and take action with respect to any of
the other funds it manages, or for its own account, that may differ from
action taken by the manager on behalf of the funds. Similarly, with respect
to each fund, the manager is not obligated to recommend, buy or sell, or to
refrain from recommending, buying or selling any security that the manager
and access persons, as defined by applicable federal securities laws, may buy
or sell for its or their own account or for the accounts of any other fund.
The manager is not obligated to refrain from investing in securities held by
the funds or other funds it manages. Of course, any transactions for the
accounts of the manager and other access persons will be made in compliance
with the funds' code of ethics.
Under the fund's code of ethics, employees of the Franklin Templeton Group
who are access persons may engage in personal securities transactions subject
to the following general restrictions and procedures: (i) the trade must
receive advance clearance from a compliance officer and must be completed by
the close of the business day following the day clearance is granted; (ii)
copies of all brokerage confirmations and statements must be sent to a
compliance officer; (iii) all brokerage accounts must be disclosed on an
annual basis; and (iv) access persons involved in preparing and making
investment decisions must, in addition to (i), (ii) and (iii) above, file
annual reports of their securities holdings each January and inform the
compliance officer (or other designated personnel) if they own a security
that is being considered for a fund or other client transaction or if they
are recommending a security in which they have an ownership interest for
purchase or sale by a fund or other client.
MANAGEMENT FEES The Rising Dividends Fund pays the manager a fee equal to an
annual rate of:
o 0.75% of the value of net assets up to and including $500 million;
o 0.625% of the value of net assets over $500 million and not over $1
billion; and
o 0.50% of the value of net assets in excess of $1 billion.
The Investment Grade Fund pays the manager a fee equal to an annual rate of:
o 0.50% of the value of net assets up to and including $500 million;
o 0.45% of the value of net assets over $500 million and not over $1
billion; and
o 0.40% of the value of net assets in excess of $1 billion.
The fee is computed at the close of business on the first business day of
each month according to the terms of the management agreement. Each fund's
management agreement also provides for the payment of $40,000 per year the
fund to the manager for the provision of certain accounting, bookkeeping and
recordkeeping functions for the fund. Each class of each fund's shares pays
its proportionate share of the fee.
For the last three fiscal years ended September 30, the funds paid the
following management fees:
MANAGEMENT FEES PAID ($)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997 1996
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rising Dividends Fund 3,577,836 2,483,231 2,052,026
Investment Grade Fund 251,633 182,521 144,011
ADMINISTRATOR AND SERVICES PROVIDED Franklin Templeton Services,
Inc. (FT Services) has an agreement with the manager to provide certain
administrative services and facilities for each fund. FT Services is wholly
owned by Resources and is an affiliate of the funds' manager and principal
underwriter.
The administrative services FT Services provides include preparing and
maintaining books, records, and tax and financial reports, and monitoring
compliance with regulatory requirements.
ADMINISTRATION FEES The manager pays FT Services a monthly fee equal to an
annual rate of:
o 0.15% of each fund's average daily net assets up to $200 million;
o 0.135% of average daily net assets over $200 million up to $700 million;
o 0.10% of average daily net assets over $700 million up to $1.2 billion;
and
o 0.075% of average daily net assets over $1.2 billion.
During the last three fiscal years ended September 30, the manager
973432083paid FT Services the following administration fees:
Administration Fees Paid ($)
----------------------------------------------------------------
1998 1997
----------------------------------------------------------------
Rising Dividends Fund 676,711 476,990
Investment Grade Fund 75,488 54,757
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AND TRANSFER AGENT Franklin/Templeton Investor
Services, Inc. (Investor Services) is the funds' shareholder servicing agent
and acts as the funds' transfer agent and dividend-paying agent. Investor
Services is located at 777 Mariners Island Blvd., P.O. Box 7777, San Mateo,
CA 94403-7777.
For its services, Investor Services receives a fixed fee per account. Each
fund may also reimburse Investor Services for certain out-of-pocket expenses,
which may include payments by Investor Services to entities, including
affiliated entities, that provide sub-shareholder services, recordkeeping
and/or transfer agency services to beneficial owners of the fund. The amount
of reimbursements for these services per benefit plan participant fund
account per year may not exceed the per account fee payable by the fund to
Investor Services in connection with maintaining shareholder accounts.
CUSTODIAN Bank of New York, Mutual Funds Division, 90 Washington Street, New
York, NY 10286, acts as custodian of each fund's securities and other assets.
AUDITOR Tait, Weller & Baker, Eight Penn Center Plaza, Suite 800,
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103, is the funds' independent auditor. The
auditor gives an opinion on the financial statements included in the trust's
Annual Report to Shareholders and reviews the trust's registration statement
filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The manager selects brokers and dealers to execute the Rising Dividends
Fund's portfolio transactions in accordance with criteria set forth in the
management agreement and any directions that the board may give.
When placing a portfolio transaction, the manager seeks to obtain prompt
execution of orders at the most favorable net price. For portfolio
transactions on a securities exchange, the amount of commission paid is
negotiated between the manager and the broker executing the transaction. The
determination and evaluation of the reasonableness of the brokerage
commissions paid are based to a large degree on the professional opinions of
the persons responsible for placement and review of the transactions. These
opinions are based on the experience of these individuals in the securities
industry and information available to them about the level of commissions
being paid by other institutional investors of comparable size. The manager
will ordinarily place orders to buy and sell over-the-counter securities on a
principal rather than agency basis with a principal market maker unless, in
the opinion of the manager, a better price and execution can otherwise be
obtained. Purchases of portfolio securities from underwriters will include a
commission or concession paid by the issuer to the underwriter, and purchases
from dealers will include a spread between the bid and ask price.
The manager may pay certain brokers commissions that are higher than those
another broker may charge, if the manager determines in good faith that the
amount paid is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and
research services it receives. This may be viewed in terms of either the
particular transaction or the manager's overall responsibilities to client
accounts over which it exercises investment discretion. The services that
brokers may provide to the manager include, among others, supplying
information about particular companies, markets, countries, or local,
regional, national or transnational economies, statistical data, quotations
and other securities pricing information, and other information that provides
lawful and appropriate assistance to the manager in carrying out its
investment advisory responsibilities. These services may not always directly
benefit the Rising Dividends Fund. They must, however, be of value to the
manager in carrying out its overall responsibilities to its clients.
Since most purchases by the Investment Grade Fund are principal transactions
at net prices, the Investment Grade Fund incurs little or no brokerage costs.
The Investment Grade Fund deals directly with the selling or buying principal
or market maker without incurring charges for the services of a broker on its
behalf, unless it is determined that a better price or execution may be
obtained by using the services of a broker. Purchases of portfolio securities
from underwriters will include a commission or concession paid by the issuer
to the underwriter, and purchases from dealers will include a spread between
the bid and ask prices. The fund seeks to obtain prompt execution of orders
at the most favorable net price. Transactions may be directed to dealers in
return for research and statistical information, as well as for special
services provided by the dealers in the execution of orders.
It is not possible to place a dollar value on the special executions or on
the research services the manager receives from dealers effecting
transactions in portfolio securities. The allocation of transactions in order
to obtain additional research services allows the manager to supplement its
own research and analysis activities and to receive the views and information
of individuals and research staffs of other securities firms. As long as it
is lawful and appropriate to do so, the manager and its affiliates may use
this research and data in their investment advisory capacities with other
clients. If the funds' officers are satisfied that the best execution is
obtained, the sale of fund shares, as well as shares of other funds in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds, may also be considered a factor in the
selection of broker-dealers to execute the funds' portfolio transactions.
Because Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. (Distributors) is a member of
the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc., it may sometimes
receive certain fees when the fund tenders portfolio securities pursuant to a
tender-offer solicitation. To recapture brokerage for the benefit of a fund,
any portfolio securities tendered by the fund will be tendered through
Distributors if it is legally permissible to do so. In turn, the next
management fee payable to the manager will be reduced by the amount of any
fees received by Distributors in cash, less any costs and expenses incurred
in connection with the tender.
If purchases or sales of securities of a fund and one or more other
investment companies or clients supervised by the manager are considered at
or about the same time, transactions in these securities will be allocated
among the several investment companies and clients in a manner deemed
equitable to all by the manager, taking into account the respective sizes of
the funds and the amount of securities to be purchased or sold. In some cases
this procedure could have a detrimental effect on the price or volume of the
security so far as a fund is concerned. In other cases it is possible that
the ability to participate in volume transactions may improve execution and
reduce transaction costs to the fund.
During the last three fiscal years ended September 30, the Rising Dividends
Fund paid the following brokerage commissions:
Brokerage Commissions ($)
------------------------------------------------
1998 478,453
1997 324,013
1996 235,013
During the fiscal years ended September 30, 1998, 1997 and 1996 the
Investment Grade Fund did not pay any brokerage commissions.
As of September 30, 1998, the funds did not own securities of their regular
broker-dealers.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The funds calculate dividends and capital gains the same way for each class.
The amount of any income dividends per share will differ, however, generally
due to the difference in the distribution and service (Rule 12b-1) fees of
each class. The funds do not pay "interest" or guarantee any fixed rate of
return on an investment in its shares.
DISTRIBUTIONS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME The funds receive income generally in
the form of dividends (in the case of the Rising Dividends Fund) and interest
on their investments. This income, less expenses incurred in the operation
of a fund, constitutes the fund's net investment income from which dividends
may be paid to you. Any distributions by a fund from such income will be
taxable to you as ordinary income, whether you take them in cash or in
additional shares.
DISTRIBUTIONS OF CAPITAL GAINS The funds may derive capital gains and losses
in connection with sales or other dispositions of their portfolio securities.
Distributions from net short-term capital gains will be taxable to you as
ordinary income. Distributions from net long-term capital gains will be
taxable to you as long-term capital gain, regardless of how long you have
held your shares in a fund. Any net capital gains realized by a fund
generally will be distributed once each year, and may be distributed more
frequently, if necessary, in order to reduce or eliminate excise or income
taxes on the funds.
EFFECT OF FOREIGN INVESTMENTS ON DISTRIBUTIONS The Rising Dividends Fund and
the Investment Grade Fund are authorized to invest in foreign currency
denominated securities. Most foreign exchange gains realized on the sale of
debt instruments are treated as ordinary income by a fund. Similarly,
foreign exchange losses realized by a fund on the sale of debt instruments
are generally treated as ordinary losses by the funds. These gains when
distributed will be taxable to you as ordinary dividends, and any losses will
reduce a fund's ordinary income otherwise available for distribution to you.
This treatment could increase or reduce a fund's ordinary income
distributions to you, and may cause some or all of a fund's previously
distributed income to be classified as a return of capital.
A fund may be subject to foreign withholding taxes on income from certain of
its foreign securities. If more than 50% of a fund's total assets at the end
of the fiscal year are invested in securities of foreign corporations, a fund
may elect to pass-through to you your pro rata share of foreign taxes paid by
the funds. If this election is made, the year-end statement you receive from
a fund will show more taxable income than was actually distributed to you.
However, you will be entitled to either deduct your share of such taxes in
computing your taxable income or claim a foreign tax credit for such taxes
against your U.S. federal income tax. A fund will provide you with the
information necessary to complete your individual income tax return if it
makes this election.
INFORMATION ON THE TAX CHARACTER OF DISTRIBUTIONS The funds will inform you
of the amount of your ordinary income dividends and capital gains
distributions at the time they are paid, and will advise you of their tax
status for federal income tax purposes shortly after the close of each
calendar year. If you have not held fund shares for a full year, you may
have designated and distributed to you as ordinary income or capital gain a
percentage of income that is not equal to the actual amount of such income
earned during the period of your investment in a fund.
ELECTION TO BE TAXED AS A REGULATED INVESTMENT COMPANY Each fund has elected
to be treated as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the tax
code, has qualified as such for its most recent fiscal year, and intends to
so qualify during the current fiscal year. As regulated investment
companies, the funds generally pay no federal income tax on the income and
gains they distribute to you. The board reserves the right not to maintain
the qualification of a fund as a regulated investment company if it
determines such course of action to be beneficial to you. In such case, a
fund will be subject to federal, and possibly state, corporate taxes on its
taxable income and gains, and distributions to you will be taxed as ordinary
dividend income to the extent of such fund's earnings and profits.
EXCISE TAX DISTRIBUTION REQUIREMENTS In order to avoid federal excise taxes,
the tax code requires a fund to distribute to you by December 31 of each
year, at a minimum, the following amounts:
o 98% of its taxable ordinary income earned during the calendar year;
o 98% of its capital gain net income earned during the twelve month
period ending October 31; and
o 100% of any undistributed amounts from the prior year.
Each fund intends to declare and pay these amounts in December (or in January
that are treated by you as received in December) to avoid these excise taxes,
but can give no assurances that its distributions will be sufficient to
eliminate all taxes.
REDEMPTION OF FUND SHARES Redemptions and exchanges of fund shares are
taxable transactions for federal and state income tax purposes. If you
redeem your fund shares, or exchange your shares in one fund for shares in
another Franklin Templeton fund, the IRS will require that you report a gain
or loss on your redemption or exchange. If you hold your shares as a capital
asset, the gain or loss that you realize will be capital gain or loss. Any
loss incurred on the redemption or exchange of shares held for six months or
less will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any
long-term capital gains distributed to you by the funds on those shares.
All or a portion of any loss that you realize upon the redemption of your
fund shares will be disallowed to the extent that you purchase other shares
in such fund (through reinvestment of dividends or otherwise) within 30 days
before or after your share redemption. Any loss disallowed under these rules
will be added to your tax basis in the new shares you purchase.
DEFERRAL OF BASIS If you redeem some or all of your shares in a fund, and
then reinvest the sales proceeds in such fund or in another Franklin
Templeton fund within 90 days of purchasing the original shares, the sales
charge that would otherwise apply to your reinvestment may be reduced or
eliminated. You will be required by the IRS to report gain or loss on the
redemption of your original shares in a fund. In so doing, all or a portion
of the sales charge that you paid for your original shares in a fund will be
excluded from your tax basis in the shares sold (for the purpose of
determining gain or loss upon the sale of such shares). The portion of the
sales charge excluded will equal the amount that the sales charge is reduced
on your reinvestment. Any portion of the sales charge excluded from your tax
basis in the shares sold will be added to the tax basis of the shares you
acquire from your reinvestment.
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS Many states grant tax-free status to dividends
paid to you from interest earned on direct obligations of the U.S.
government, subject in some states to minimum investment requirements that
must be met by the fund. Investments in GNMA/FNMA securities, bankers'
acceptances, commercial paper and repurchase agreements collateralized by
U.S. government securities do not generally qualify for tax-free treatment.
The rules on exclusion of this income are different for corporations.
DIVIDENDS RECEIVED DEDUCTION FOR CORPORATIONS As a corporate shareholder,
you should note that 100% of the dividends paid by the Rising Dividends Fund
for the most recent fiscal year qualified for the dividends-received
deduction. You will be permitted in some circumstances to deduct these
qualified dividends, thereby reducing the tax that you would otherwise be
required to pay on these dividends. The dividends-received deduction will be
available only with respect to dividends designated by a fund as eligible for
such treatment. All dividends (including the deducted portion) must be
included in your alternative minimum taxable income calculations.
Because the Investment Grade Fund's income consists of interest rather than
dividends, no portion of its distributions will generally be eligible for the
intercorporate dividends-received deduction. None of the dividends paid by
the Investment Grade Fund for the most recent calendar year qualified for
such deduction, and it is anticipated that none of the current year's
dividends will so qualify.
INVESTMENT IN COMPLEX SECURITIES The funds may invest in complex
securities. Such investments may be subject to numerous special and complex
tax rules. These rules could affect whether gains and losses recognized by a
fund are treated as ordinary income or capital gain, accelerate the
recognition of income to a fund and/or defer a fund's ability to recognize
losses and, in limited cases, subject a fund to U.S. federal income tax on
income from certain of its foreign securities. In turn, these rules may
affect the amount, timing or character of the income distributed to you by a
fund.
ORGANIZATION, VOTING RIGHTS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Rising Dividends Fund and the Investment Grade Fund are diversified
series of Franklin Managed Trust, an open-end management investment company,
commonly called a mutual fund. The trust was organized as a Massachusetts
business trust on July 15, 1986, and is registered with the SEC.
As a shareholder of a Massachusetts business trust, you could, under certain
circumstances, be held personally liable as a partner for its obligations.
The Agreement and Declaration of Trust, however, contains an express
disclaimer of shareholder liability for acts or obligations of the funds. The
Declaration of Trust also provides for indemnification and reimbursement of
expenses out of the fund's assets if you are held personally liable for
obligations of a fund. The Declaration of Trust provides that each fund
shall, upon request, assume the defense of any claim made against you for any
act or obligation of the fund and satisfy any judgment thereon. All such
rights are limited to the assets of the fund. The Declaration of Trust
further provides that the funds may maintain appropriate insurance (for
example, fidelity bonding and errors and omissions insurance) for the
protection of the funds, their shareholders, trustees, officers, employees
and agents to cover possible tort and other liabilities. Furthermore, the
activities of a fund as an investment company, as distinguished from an
operating company, would not likely give rise to liabilities in excess of the
fund's total assets. Thus, the risk that you would incur financial loss on
account of shareholder liability is limited to the unlikely circumstance in
which both inadequate insurance exists and the fund itself is unable to meet
its obligations.
The Rising Dividends Fund currently offers three classes of shares, Class A,
Class B, and Class C. The Investment Grade Fund currently offers two classes
of shares, Class A and Advisor Class. Before January 1, 1999, Class A shares
were designated Class I and Class C shares were designated Class II. The fund
began offering Class B shares on January 1, 1999. The funds may offer
additional classes of shares in the future. The full title of each class is:
o Franklin Rising Dividends Fund - Class A
o Franklin Rising Dividends Fund - Class B
o Franklin Rising Dividends Fund - Class C
o Franklin Investment Grade Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Investment Grade Income Fund - Advisor Class
Shares of each class represent proportionate interests in a fund's assets. On
matters that affect a fund as a whole, each class has the same voting and
other rights and preferences as any other class. On matters that affect only
one class, only shareholders of that class may vote. Each class votes
separately on matters affecting only that class, or expressly required to be
voted on separately by state or federal law. Shares of each class of a series
have the same voting and other rights and preferences as the other classes
and series of the trust for matters that affect the trust as a whole.
Additional series may be offered in the future.
The trust has noncumulative voting rights. For board member elections, this
gives holders of more than 50% of the shares voting the ability to elect all
of the members of the board. If this happens, holders of the remaining shares
voting will not be able to elect anyone to the board.
The trust does not intend to hold annual shareholder meetings. The trust or a
series of the trust may hold special meetings, however, for matters requiring
shareholder approval. A meeting may be called by the board to consider the
removal of a board member if requested in writing by shareholders holding at
least 10% of the outstanding shares. In certain circumstances, we are
required to help you communicate with other shareholders about the removal of
a board member. A special meeting may also be called by the board in its
discretion.
As of December 7, 1998, the principal shareholders of the Investment Grade Fund,
beneficial or of record, was:
Name and Address Share Class Percentage (%)
- ------------------------------------------------------- -----------------------
Investment Grade Fund
Franklin Templeton Fund Allocator Advisor 95.60%
Conservative Target Fund
1810 Gateway 3rd Floor
San Mateo, CA 94404-2470
From time to time, the number of fund shares held in the "street name" accounts
of various securities dealers for the benefit of their clients or in centralized
securities depositories may exceed 5% of the total shares outstanding. To the
best knowledge of the Rising Dividends Fund, no other person holds beneficially
or of record more than 5% of the outstanding shares of any class.
As of December 7, 1998, the officers and board members, as a group, owned of
record and beneficially 1.27% of the outstanding shares of the Investment Grade
Fund Advisor Class shares, less than 1% of the outstanding shares of the
Investment Grade Fund Class A, and less than 1% of the outstanding shares of the
other funds and classes.
BUYING AND SELLING SHARES
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The funds continuously offer their shares through securities dealers who have
an agreement with Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. (Distributors). A
securities dealer includes any financial institution that, either directly or
through affiliates, has an agreement with Distributors to handle customer
orders and accounts with the funds. This reference is for convenience only
and does not indicate a legal conclusion of capacity. Banks and financial
institutions that sell shares of the funds may be required by state law to
register as securities dealers.
For investors outside the U.S., the offering of fund shares may be limited in
many jurisdictions. An investor who wishes to buy shares of a fund should
determine, or have a broker-dealer determine, the applicable laws and
regulations of the relevant jurisdiction. Investors are responsible for
compliance with tax, currency exchange or other regulations applicable to
redemption and purchase transactions in any jurisdiction to which they may be
subject. Investors should consult appropriate tax and legal advisors to
obtain information on the rules applicable to these transactions.
All checks, drafts, wires and other payment mediums used to buy or sell
shares of a fund must be denominated in U.S. dollars. We may, in our sole
discretion, either (a) reject any order to buy or sell shares denominated in
any other currency or (b) honor the transaction or make adjustments to your
account for the transaction as of a date and with a foreign currency exchange
factor determined by the drawee bank.
When you buy shares, if you submit a check or a draft that is returned unpaid
to the fund we may impose a $10 charge against your account for each returned
item.
If you buy shares through the reinvestment of dividends, the shares will be
purchased at the net asset value determined on the business day following the
dividend record date (sometimes known as the "ex-dividend date"). The
processing date for the reinvestment of dividends may vary and does not
affect the amount or value of the shares acquired.
INITIAL SALES CHARGES The Investment Grade Fund's maximum initial sales
charge is 4.25%. The Rising Dividends Fund's maximum initial sales charge is
5.75% for Class A and 1% for Class C. There is no initial sales charge for
Class B. The initial sales charge for Class A shares may be reduced for
certain large purchases, as described in the prospectus. We offer several
ways for you to combine your purchases in the Franklin Templeton Funds to
take advantage of the lower sales charges for large purchases. The Franklin
Templeton Funds include the U.S. registered mutual funds in the Franklin
Group of Funds(R) and the Templeton Group of Funds except Franklin Valuemark
Funds, Templeton Capital Accumulator Fund, Inc., and Templeton Variable
Products Series Fund.
CUMULATIVE QUANTITY DISCOUNT. For purposes of calculating the sales charge on
Class A shares, you may combine the amount of your current purchase with the
cost or current value, whichever is higher, of your existing shares in the
Franklin Templeton Funds. You may also combine the shares of your spouse,
children under the age of 21 or grandchildren under the age of 21. If you are
the sole owner of a company, you may also add any company accounts, including
retirement plan accounts. Companies with one or more retirement plans may add
together the total plan assets invested in the Franklin Templeton Funds to
determine the sales charge that applies.
LETTER OF INTENT (LOI). You may buy Class A shares at a reduced sales charge
by completing the letter of intent section of your account application. A
letter of intent is a commitment by you to invest a specified dollar amount
during a 13 month period. The amount you agree to invest determines the sales
charge you pay. By completing the letter of intent section of the
application, you acknowledge and agree to the following:
o You authorize Distributors to reserve 5% of your total intended purchase
in Class A shares registered in your name until you fulfill your LOI. Your
periodic statements will include the reserved shares in the total shares
you own, and we will pay or reinvest dividend and capital gain
distributions on the reserved shares according to the distribution option
you have chosen.
o You give Distributors a security interest in the reserved shares and
appoint Distributors as attorney-in-fact.
o Distributors may sell any or all of the reserved shares to cover any
additional sales charge if you do not fulfill the terms of the LOI.
o Although you may exchange your shares, you may not sell reserved shares
until you complete the LOI or pay the higher sales charge.
After you file your LOI with the fund, you may buy Class A shares at the
sales charge applicable to the amount specified in your LOI. Sales charge
reductions based on purchases in more than one Franklin Templeton Fund will
be effective only after notification to Distributors that the investment
qualifies for a discount. Any Class A purchases you made within 90 days
before you filed your LOI may also qualify for a retroactive reduction in the
sales charge. If you file your LOI with the fund before a change in the
fund's sales charge, you may complete the LOI at the lower of the new sales
charge or the sales charge in effect when the LOI was filed.
Your holdings in the Franklin Templeton Funds acquired more than 90 days
before you filed your LOI will be counted towards the completion of the LOI,
but they will not be entitled to a retroactive reduction in the sales charge.
Any redemptions you make during the 13 month period, except in the case of
certain retirement plans, will be subtracted from the amount of the purchases
for purposes of determining whether the terms of the LOI have been completed.
If the terms of your LOI are met, the reserved shares will be deposited to an
account in your name or delivered to you or as you direct. If the amount of
your total purchases, less redemptions, is more than the amount specified in
your LOI and is an amount that would qualify for a further sales charge
reduction, a retroactive price adjustment will be made by Distributors and
the securities dealer through whom purchases were made. The price adjustment
will be made on purchases made within 90 days before and on those made after
you filed your LOI and will be applied towards the purchase of additional
shares at the offering price applicable to a single purchase or the dollar
amount of the total purchases.
If the amount of your total purchases, less redemptions, is less than the
amount specified in your LOI, the sales charge will be adjusted upward,
depending on the actual amount purchased (less redemptions) during the
period. You will need to send Distributors an amount equal to the difference
in the actual dollar amount of sales charge paid and the amount of sales
charge that would have applied to the total purchases if the total of the
purchases had been made at one time. Upon payment of this amount, the
reserved shares held for your account will be deposited to an account in your
name or delivered to you or as you direct. If within 20 days after written
request the difference in sales charge is not paid, we will redeem an
appropriate number of reserved shares to realize the difference. If you
redeem the total amount in your account before you fulfill your LOI, we will
deduct the additional sales charge due from the sale proceeds and forward the
balance to you.
For LOIs filed on behalf of certain retirement plans, the level and any
reduction in sales charge for these plans will be based on actual plan
participation and the projected investments in the Franklin Templeton Funds
under the LOI. These plans are not subject to the requirement to reserve 5%
of the total intended purchase or to the policy on upward adjustments in
sales charges described above, or to any penalty as a result of the early
termination of a plan, nor are these plans entitled to receive retroactive
adjustments in price for investments made before executing the LOI.
GROUP PURCHASES. If you are a member of a qualified group, you may buy Class
A shares at a reduced sales charge that applies to the group as a whole. The
sales charge is based on the combined dollar value of the group members'
existing investments, plus the amount of the current purchase.
A qualified group is one that:
o Was formed at least six months ago,
o Has a purpose other than buying fund shares at a discount,
o Has more than 10 members,
o Can arrange for meetings between our representatives and group members,
o Agrees to include Franklin Templeton Fund sales and other materials in
publications and mailings to its members at reduced or no cost to
Distributors,
o Agrees to arrange for payroll deduction or other bulk transmission of
investments to the fund, and
o Meets other uniform criteria that allow Distributors to achieve cost
savings in distributing shares.
A qualified group does not include a 403(b) plan that only allows salary
deferral contributions, although any such plan that purchased the fund's
Class A shares at a reduced sales charge under the group purchase privilege
before February 1, 1998, may continue to do so.
WAIVERS FOR INVESTMENTS FROM CERTAIN PAYMENTS. Class A shares may be
purchased without an initial sales charge or contingent deferred sales charge
(CDSC) by investors who reinvest within 365 days:
o Dividend and capital gain distributions from any Franklin Templeton Fund.
The distributions generally must be reinvested in the same share class.
Certain exceptions apply, however, to Class C shareholders who chose to
reinvest their distributions in Class A shares of the fund before November
17, 1997, and to Advisor Class or Class Z shareholders of a Franklin
Templeton Fund who may reinvest their distributions in the fund's Class A
shares. This waiver category also applies to Class B and C shares.
o Dividend or capital gain distributions from a real estate investment
trust (REIT) sponsored or advised by Franklin Properties, Inc.
o Annuity payments received under either an annuity option or from death
benefit proceeds, if the annuity contract offers as an investment option
the Franklin Valuemark Funds or the Templeton Variable Products Series
Fund. You should contact your tax advisor for information on any tax
consequences that may apply.
o Redemption proceeds from a repurchase of shares of Franklin Floating Rate
Trust, if the shares were continuously held for at least 12 months.
If you immediately placed your redemption proceeds in a Franklin Bank CD
or a Franklin Templeton money fund, you may reinvest them as described
above. The proceeds must be reinvested within 365 days from the date the
CD matures, including any rollover, or the date you redeem your money fund
shares.
o Redemption proceeds from the sale of Class A shares of any of the
Templeton Global Strategy Funds if you are a qualified investor.
If you paid a CDSC when you redeemed your Class A shares from a Templeton
Global Strategy Fund, a new CDSC will apply to your purchase of fund
shares and the CDSC holding period will begin again. We will, however,
credit your fund account with additional shares based on the CDSC you
previously paid and the amount of the redemption proceeds that you
reinvest.
If you immediately placed your redemption proceeds in a Franklin Templeton
money fund, you may reinvest them as described above. The proceeds must be
reinvested within 365 days from the date they are redeemed from the money
fund.
o Distributions from an existing retirement plan invested in the Franklin
Templeton Funds
WAIVERS FOR CERTAIN INVESTORS. Class A shares may also be purchased without
an initial sales charge or CDSC by various individuals and institutions due
to anticipated economies in sales efforts and expenses, including:
o Trust companies and bank trust departments agreeing to invest in Franklin
Templeton Funds over a 13 month period at least $1 million of assets held
in a fiduciary, agency, advisory, custodial or similar capacity and over
which the trust companies and bank trust departments or other plan
fiduciaries or participants, in the case of certain retirement plans, have
full or shared investment discretion. We will accept orders for these
accounts by mail accompanied by a check or by telephone or other means of
electronic data transfer directly from the bank or trust company, with
payment by federal funds received by the close of business on the next
business day following the order.
o Any state or local government or any instrumentality, department,
authority or agency thereof that has determined a fund is a legally
permissible investment and that can only buy fund shares without paying
sales charges. Please consult your legal and investment advisors to
determine if an investment in the fund is permissible and suitable for you
and the effect, if any, of payments by the fund on arbitrage rebate
calculations.
o Broker-dealers, registered investment advisors or certified financial
planners who have entered into an agreement with Distributors for clients
participating in comprehensive fee programs
o Qualified registered investment advisors who buy through a broker-dealer
or service agent who has entered into an agreement with Distributors
o Registered securities dealers and their affiliates, for their investment
accounts only
o Current employees of securities dealers and their affiliates and their
family members, as allowed by the internal policies of their employer
o Officers, trustees, directors and full-time employees of the Franklin
Templeton Funds or the Franklin Templeton Group, and their family members,
consistent with our then-current policies
o Investment companies exchanging shares or selling assets pursuant to a
merger, acquisition or exchange offer
o Accounts managed by the Franklin Templeton Group
o Certain unit investment trusts and their holders reinvesting
distributions from the trusts
o Group annuity separate accounts offered to retirement plans
o Chilean retirement plans that meet the requirements described under
"Retirement plans" below
RETIREMENT PLANS. Retirement plans sponsored by an employer (i) with at least
100 employees, or (ii) with retirement plan assets of $1 million or more, or
(iii) that agrees to invest at least $500,000 in the Franklin Templeton Funds
over a 13 month period may buy Class A shares without an initial sales
charge. Retirement plans that are not qualified retirement plans (employer
sponsored pension or profit-sharing plans that qualify under section 401 of
the tax code, including 401(k), money purchase pension, profit sharing and
defined benefit plans), SIMPLEs (savings incentive match plans for employees)
or SEPs (employer sponsored simplified employee pension plans established
under section 408(k) of the tax code) must also meet the group purchase
requirements described above to be able to buy Class A shares without an
initial sales charge. We may enter into a special arrangement with a
securities dealer, based on criteria established by the fund, to add together
certain small qualified retirement plan accounts for the purpose of meeting
these requirements.
For retirement plan accounts opened on or after May 1, 1997, a CDSC may apply
if the retirement plan is transferred out of the Franklin Templeton Funds or
terminated within 365 days of the retirement plan account's initial purchase
in the Franklin Templeton Funds.
SALES IN TAIWAN. Under agreements with certain banks in Taiwan, Republic of
China, the funds' shares are available to these banks' trust accounts without
a sales charge. The banks may charge service fees to their customers who
participate in the trusts. A portion of these service fees may be paid to
Distributors or one of its affiliates to help defray expenses of maintaining
a service office in Taiwan, including expenses related to local literature
fulfillment and communication facilities.
The funds' Class A shares may be offered to investors in Taiwan through
securities advisory firms known locally as Securities Investment Consulting
Enterprises. In conformity with local business practices in Taiwan, Class A
shares may be offered with the following schedule of sales charges:
Rising Dividends Fund
Size of Purchase - U.S. Dollars Sales Charge (%)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Under $30,000 3.0
$30,000 but less than $50,000 2.5
$50,000 but less than $100,000 2.0
$100,000 but less than $200,000 1.5
$200,000 but less than $400,000 1.0
$400,000 or more 0
Investment Grade Fund
Size of Purchase - U.S. Dollars Sales Charge (%)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
Under $30,000 3.0
$30,000 but less than $100,000 2.0
$100,000 but less than $400,000 1.0
$400,000 or more 0
DEALER COMPENSATION Securities dealers may at times receive the entire sales
charge. A securities dealer who receives 90% or more of the sales charge may
be deemed an underwriter under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
Financial institutions or their affiliated brokers may receive an agency
transaction fee in the percentages indicated in the dealer compensation table
in each fund's prospectus.
Distributors may pay the following commissions, out of its own resources, to
securities dealers who initiate and are responsible for purchases of Class A
shares of $1 million or more: 1% for the Rising Dividends Fund and 0.75% for
the Investment Grade Fund on sales of $1 million to $2 million, plus 0.80%
for the Rising Dividends Fund and 0.60% for the Investment Grade Fund on
sales over $2 million to $3 million, plus 0.50% on sales over $3 million to
$50 million, plus 0.25% on sales over $50 million to $100 million, plus 0.15%
on sales over $100 million.
Either Distributors or one of its affiliates may pay the following amounts,
out of its own resources, to securities dealers who initiate and are
responsible for purchases of Class A shares by certain retirement plans
without an initial sales charge: 1% on sales of $500,000 to $2 million, plus
0.80% on sales over $2 million to $3 million, plus 0.50% on sales over $3
million to $50 million, plus 0.25% on sales over $50 million to $100 million,
plus 0.15% on sales over $100 million. Distributors may make these payments
in the form of contingent advance payments, which may be recovered from the
securities dealer or set off against other payments due to the dealer if
shares are sold within 12 months of the calendar month of purchase. Other
conditions may apply. All terms and conditions may be imposed by an agreement
between Distributors, or one of its affiliates, and the securities dealer.
These breakpoints are reset every 12 months for purposes of additional
purchases.
Distributors and/or its affiliates provide financial support to various
securities dealers that sell shares of the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
This support is based primarily on the amount of sales of fund shares. The
amount of support may be affected by: total sales; net sales; levels of
redemptions; the proportion of a securities dealer's sales and marketing
efforts in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds; a securities dealer's
support of, and participation in, Distributors' marketing programs; a
securities dealer's compensation programs for its registered representatives;
and the extent of a securities dealer's marketing programs relating to the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. Financial support to securities dealers
may be made by payments from Distributors' resources, from Distributors'
retention of underwriting concessions and, in the case of funds that have
Rule 12b-1 plans, from payments to Distributors under such plans. In
addition, certain securities dealers may receive brokerage commissions
generated by fund portfolio transactions in accordance with the rules of the
National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
Distributors routinely sponsors due diligence meetings for registered
representatives during which they receive updates on various Franklin
Templeton Funds and are afforded the opportunity to speak with portfolio
managers. Invitation to these meetings is not conditioned on selling a
specific number of shares. Those who have shown an interest in the Franklin
Templeton Funds, however, are more likely to be considered. To the extent
permitted by their firm's policies and procedures, registered
representatives' expenses in attending these meetings may be covered by
Distributors.
CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE (CDSC) If you invest $1 million or more in
Class A shares, either as a lump sum or through our cumulative quantity
discount or letter of intent programs, a CDSC may apply on any shares you
sell within 12 months of purchase. For Class C shares, a CDSC may apply if
you sell your shares within 18 months of purchase. The CDSC is 1% of the
value of the shares sold or the net asset value at the time of purchase,
whichever is less.
Certain retirement plan accounts opened on or after May 1, 1997, and that
qualify to buy Class A shares without an initial sales charge may also be
subject to a CDSC if the retirement plan is transferred out of the Franklin
Templeton Funds or terminated within 365 days of the account's initial
purchase in the Franklin Templeton Funds.
For Class B shares, there is a CDSC if you sell your shares within six years,
as described in the table below. The charge is based on the value of the
shares sold or the net asset value at the time of purchase, whichever is less.
IF YOU SELL YOUR CLASS B SHARES
WITHIN THIS MANY YEARS AFTER BUYING THIS % IS DEDUCTED FROM
THEM YOUR PROCEEDS AS A CDSC
- --------------------------------------------------------------
1 Year 4
2 Years 4
3 Years 3
4 Years 3
5 Years 2
6 Years 1
7 Years 0
CDSC WAIVERS. The CDSC for any share class will generally be waived for:
o Account fees
o Sales of Class A shares purchased without an initial sales charge by
certain retirement plan accounts if (i) the account was opened before May
1, 1997, or (ii) the securities dealer of record received a payment from
Distributors of 0.25% or less, or (iii) Distributors did not make any
payment in connection with the purchase, or (iv) the securities dealer of
record has entered into a supplemental agreement with Distributors
o Redemptions by the fund when an account falls below the minimum required
account size
o Redemptions following the death of the shareholder or beneficial owner
o Redemptions through a systematic withdrawal plan set up before February
1, 1995
o Redemptions through a systematic withdrawal 973432084plan set up on or
after February 1, 1995, up to 1% monthly, 3% quarterly, 6% semiannually or
12% annually of your account's net asset value depending on the frequency
of your plan
o Redemptions by Franklin Templeton Trust Company employee benefit plans or
employee benefit plans serviced by ValuSelect(R) (not applicable to Class B)
o Distributions from individual retirement accounts (IRAs) due to death or
disability or upon periodic distributions based on life expectancy (for
Class B, this applies to all retirement plan accounts, not only IRAs)
o Returns of excess contributions (and earnings, if applicable) from
retirement plan accounts
o Participant initiated exchanges among investment choices in employee
benefit plans (not applicable to Class B)
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE If you request the exchange of the total value of your
account, declared but unpaid income dividends and capital gain distributions
will be exchanged into the new fund and invested at net asset value. Backup
withholding and information reporting may apply.
If a substantial number of shareholders should, within a short period, sell
their fund shares under the exchange privilege, the fund might have to sell
portfolio securities it might otherwise hold and incur the additional costs
related to such transactions. On the other hand, increased use of the
exchange privilege may result in periodic large inflows of money. If this
occurs, it is the funds' general policy to initially invest this money in
short-term, interest-bearing money market instruments, unless it is believed
that attractive investment opportunities consistent with each fund's
investment goal exist immediately. This money will then be withdrawn from the
short-term, interest-bearing money market instruments and invested in
portfolio securities in as orderly a manner as is possible when attractive
investment opportunities arise.
The proceeds from the sale of shares of an investment company are generally
not available until the seventh day following the sale. The funds you are
seeking to exchange into may delay issuing shares pursuant to an exchange
until that seventh day. The sale of fund shares to complete an exchange will
be effected at net asset value at the close of business on the day the
request for exchange is received in proper form.
SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN Our systematic withdrawal plan allows you to sell
your shares and receive regular payments from your account on a monthly,
quarterly, semiannual or annual basis. The value of your account must be at
least $5,000 and the minimum payment amount for each withdrawal must be at
least $50. For retirement plans subject to mandatory distribution
requirements, the $50 minimum will not apply. There are no service charges
for establishing or maintaining a systematic withdrawal plan. Once your plan
is established, any distributions paid by the fund will be automatically
reinvested in your account.
Payments under the plan will be made from the redemption of an equivalent
amount of shares in your account, generally on the 25th day of the month in
which a payment is scheduled. If the 25th falls on a weekend or holiday, we
will process the redemption on the next business day. When you sell your
shares under a systematic withdrawal plan, it is a taxable transaction.
To avoid paying sales charges on money you plan to withdraw within a short
period of time, you may not want to set up a systematic withdrawal plan if
you plan to buy shares on a regular basis. Shares sold under the plan may
also be subject to a CDSC.
Redeeming shares through a systematic withdrawal plan may reduce or exhaust
the shares in your account if payments exceed distributions received from the
fund. This is especially likely to occur if there is a market decline. If a
withdrawal amount exceeds the value of your account, your account will be
closed and the remaining balance in your account will be sent to you. Because
the amount withdrawn under the plan may be more than your actual yield or
income, part of the payment may be a return of your investment.
You may discontinue a systematic withdrawal plan, change the amount and
schedule of withdrawal payments, or suspend one payment by notifying us by
mail or by phone at least seven business days before the end of the month
preceding a scheduled payment. Each fund may discontinue a systematic
withdrawal plan by notifying you in writing and will automatically
discontinue a systematic withdrawal plan if all shares in your account are
withdrawn or if the fund receives notification of the shareholder's death or
incapacity.
REDEMPTIONS IN KIND Each fund has committed itself to pay in cash (by check)
all requests for redemption by any shareholder of record, limited in amount,
however, during any 90-day period to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the
value of the fund's net assets at the beginning of the 90-day period. This
commitment is irrevocable without the prior approval of the Securities and
Exchange Commission (SEC). In the case of redemption requests in excess of
these amounts, the board reserves the right to make payments in whole or in
part in securities or other assets of the fund, in case of an emergency, or
if the payment of such a redemption in cash would be detrimental to the
existing shareholders of the fund. In these circumstances, the securities
distributed would be valued at the price used to compute the fund's net
assets and you may incur brokerage fees in converting the securities to cash.
The fund does not intend to redeem illiquid securities in kind. If this
happens, however, you may not be able to recover your investment in a timely
manner.
SHARE CERTIFICATES We will credit your shares to your fund account. We do
not issue share certificates unless you specifically request them. This
eliminates the costly problem of replacing lost, stolen or destroyed
certificates. If a certificate is lost, stolen or destroyed, you may have to
pay an insurance premium of up to 2% of the value of the certificate to
replace it.
Any outstanding share certificates must be returned to the fund if you want
to sell or exchange those shares or if you would like to start a systematic
withdrawal plan. The certificates should be properly endorsed. You can do
this either by signing the back of the certificate or by completing a share
assignment form. For your protection, you may prefer to complete a share
assignment form and to send the certificate and assignment form in separate
envelopes.
GENERAL INFORMATION If dividend checks are returned to a fund marked "unable
to forward" by the postal service, we will consider this a request by you to
change your dividend option to reinvest all distributions. The proceeds will
be reinvested in additional shares at net asset value until we receive new
instructions.
Distribution or redemption checks sent to you do not earn interest or any
other income during the time the checks remain uncashed. Neither the funds
nor their affiliates will be liable for any loss caused by your failure to
cash such checks. The funds are not responsible for tracking down uncashed
checks, unless a check is returned as undeliverable.
In most cases, if mail is returned as undeliverable we are required to take
certain steps to try to find you free of charge. If these attempts are
unsuccessful, however, we may deduct the costs of any additional efforts to
find you from your account. These costs may include a percentage of the
account when a search company charges a percentage fee in exchange for its
location services.
The wiring of redemption proceeds is a special service that we make available
whenever possible. By offering this service to you, the funds are not bound
to meet any redemption request in less than the seven day period prescribed
by law. Neither the funds nor their agents shall be liable to you or any
other person if, for any reason, a redemption request by wire is not
processed as described in the prospectus.
Franklin Templeton Investor Services, Inc. (Investor Services) may pay
certain financial institutions that maintain omnibus accounts with the funds
on behalf of numerous beneficial owners for recordkeeping operations
performed with respect to such owners. For each beneficial owner in the
omnibus account, the funds may reimburse Investor Services an amount not to
exceed the per account fee that the fund normally pays Investor Services.
These financial institutions may also charge a fee for their services
directly to their clients.
If you buy or sell shares through your securities dealer, we use the net
asset value next calculated after your securities dealer receives your
request, which is promptly transmitted to the fund. If you sell shares
through your securities dealer, it is your dealer's responsibility to
transmit the order to the fund in a timely fashion. Your redemption proceeds
will not earn interest between the time we receive the order from your dealer
and the time we receive any required documents. Any loss to you resulting
from your dealer's failure to transmit your redemption order to the fund in a
timely fashion must be settled between you and your securities dealer.
Certain shareholder servicing agents may be authorized to accept your
transaction request.
For institutional accounts, there may be additional methods of buying or
selling fund shares than those described in this SAI or in the prospectus.
In the event of disputes involving multiple claims of ownership or authority
to control your account, each fund has the right (but has no obligation) to:
(a) freeze the account and require the written agreement of all persons
deemed by the fund to have a potential property interest in the account,
before executing instructions regarding the account; (b) interplead disputed
funds or accounts with a court of competent jurisdiction; or (c) surrender
ownership of all or a portion of the account to the IRS in response to a
notice of levy.
PRICING SHARES
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When you buy shares, you pay the offering price. The offering price is the
net asset value (NAV) per share plus any applicable sales charge, calculated
to two decimal places using standard rounding criteria. When you sell shares,
you receive the NAV minus any applicable CDSC.
The value of a mutual fund is determined by deducting the fund's liabilities
from the total assets of the portfolio. The net asset value per share is
determined by dividing the net asset value of the fund by the number of
shares outstanding.
The funds calculate the NAV per share of each class each business day at the
close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (normally 1:00 p.m. pacific
time). The funds do not calculate the NAV on days the New York Stock Exchange
(NYSE) is closed for trading, which include New Year's Day, Martin Luther
King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day,
Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
When determining its NAV, each fund values cash and receivables at their
realizable amounts, and records interest as accrued and dividends on the
ex-dividend date. If market quotations are readily available for portfolio
securities listed on a securities exchange or on the NASDAQ National Market
System, the funds value those securities at the last quoted sale price of the
day or, if there is no reported sale, within the range of the most recent
quoted bid and ask prices. The funds value over-the-counter portfolio
securities within the range of the most recent quoted bid and ask prices. If
portfolio securities trade both in the over-the-counter market and on a stock
exchange, the funds value them according to the broadest and most
representative market as determined by the manager.
The Investment Grade Fund values portfolio securities underlying actively
traded call options at their market price as determined above. The current
market value of any option the fund holds is its last sale price on the
relevant exchange before the fund values its assets. If there are no sales
that day or if the last sale price is outside the bid and ask prices, the
fund values options within the range of the current closing bid and ask
prices if the fund believes the valuation fairly reflects the contract's
market value.
The funds determine the value of a foreign security as of the close of
trading on the foreign exchange on which the security is traded or as of the
close of trading on the NYSE, if that is earlier. The value is then converted
into its U.S. dollar equivalent at the foreign exchange rate in effect at
noon, New York time, on the day the value of the foreign security is
determined. If no sale is reported at that time, the foreign security is
valued within the range of the most recent quoted bid and ask prices.
Occasionally events that affect the values of foreign securities and foreign
exchange rates may occur between the times at which they are determined and
the close of the exchange and will, therefore, not be reflected in the
computation of the NAV. If events materially affecting the values of these
foreign securities occur during this period, the securities will be valued in
accordance with procedures established by the board.
Generally, trading in corporate bonds, U.S. government securities and money
market instruments is substantially completed each day at various times
before the close of the NYSE. The value of these securities used in computing
the NAV is determined as of such times. Occasionally, events affecting the
values of these securities may occur between the times at which they are
determined and the close of the NYSE that will not be reflected in the
computation of the NAV. If events materially affecting the values of these
securities occur during this period, the securities will be valued at their
fair value as determined in good faith by the board.
Other securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued
at the current market price, which may be obtained from a pricing service,
based on a variety of factors including recent trades, institutional size
trading in similar types of securities (considering yield, risk and maturity)
and/or developments related to specific issues. Securities and other assets
for which market prices are not readily available are valued at fair value as
determined following procedures approved by the board. With the approval of
the board, the funds may use a pricing service, bank or securities dealer to
perform any of the above described functions.
THE UNDERWRITER
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. (Distributors) acts as the principal
underwriter in the continuous public offering of the funds' shares.
Distributors is located at 777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404.
DISTRIBUTORS is located at 777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404.
Distributors pays the expenses of the distribution of fund shares, including
advertising expenses and the costs of printing sales material and
prospectuses used to offer shares to the public. Each fund pays the expenses
of preparing and printing amendments to its registration statements and
prospectuses (other than those necessitated by the activities of
Distributors) and of sending prospectuses to existing shareholders.
The table below shows the aggregate underwriting commissions Distributors
received in connection with the offering of the funds' shares, the net
underwriting discounts and commissions Distributors retained after allowances
to dealers, and the amounts Distributors received in connection with
redemptions or repurchases of shares for the last three fiscal years ended
September 30:
Amount Received in
Connection with
Total Commissions Amount Retained by Redemptions and
Received ($) Distributors ($) Repurchases ($)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1998
Rising Dividends Fund 1,956,311 187,279 20,936
Investment Grade Fund 253,894 17,824 184
1997
Rising Dividends Fund 796,459 80,759 2,425
Investment Grade Fund 240,446 15,287 0
1996
Rising Dividends Fund 502,383 53,786 758
Investment Grade Fund 125,138 8,042 0
Distributors may be entitled to reimbursement under the Rule 12b-1 plans, as
discussed below. Except as noted, Distributors received no other compensation
from the funds for acting as underwriter.
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE (12B-1) FEES Each class has a separate distribution
or "Rule 12b-1" plan. Under the plan, each fund shall pay or may reimburse
Distributors or others for the expenses of activities that are primarily
intended to sell shares of the class. These expenses may include, among
others, distribution or service fees paid to securities dealers or others who
have executed a servicing agreement with the funds, Distributors or its
affiliates; a prorated portion of Distributors' overhead expenses; and the
expenses of printing prospectuses and reports used for sales purposes, and
preparing and distributing sales literature and advertisements.
The distribution and service (12b-1) fees charged to each class are based
only on the fees attributable to that particular class.
THE CLASS A PLAN. Payments by each fund under its Class A plan may not exceed
0.50% in the case of the Rising Dividends Fund or 0.25% in the case of the
Investment Grade Fund per year of Class A's average daily net assets, payable
quarterly. All distribution expenses over this amount will be borne by those
who have incurred them. In addition, the Rising Dividends Fund's Class A plan
provides that up to an additional 0.25% may be paid to Distributors or others
as a service fee to reimburse such service providers for personal services
provided to shareholders of the funds and/or the maintenance of shareholder
accounts.
The Class A plan does not permit unreimbursed expenses incurred in a
particular year to be carried over to or reimbursed in later years.
THE CLASS B AND C PLANS. Under the Class B and C plans, the Rising Dividends
Fund pays Distributors up to 0.75% per year of the class's average daily net
assets, payable quarterly, to pay Distributors or others for providing
distribution and related services and bearing certain expenses. All
distribution expenses over this amount will be borne by those who have
incurred them. The Rising Dividends Fund may also pay a servicing fee of up
to 0.25% per year of the class's average daily net assets, payable quarterly.
This fee may be used to pay securities dealers or others for, among other
things, helping to establish and maintain customer accounts and records,
helping with requests to buy and sell shares, receiving and answering
correspondence, monitoring dividend payments from the fund on behalf of
customers, and similar servicing and account maintenance activities.
The expenses relating to each of the Class B and C plans are also used to pay
Distributors for advancing the commission costs to securities dealers with
respect to the initial sale of Class B and C shares. Further, the expenses
relating to the Class B plan may be used by Distributors to pay third party
financing entities that have provided financing to Distributors in connection
with advancing commission costs to securities dealers.
THE CLASS A, B AND C PLANS. In addition to the payments that Distributors or
others are entitled to under each plan, each plan also provides that to the
extent the funds, the manager or Distributors or other parties on behalf of
the funds, the manager or Distributors make payments that are deemed to be
for the financing of any activity primarily intended to result in the sale of
fund shares within the context of Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act
of 1940, then such payments shall be deemed to have been made pursuant to the
plan. The terms and provisions of each plan relating to required reports,
term, and approval are consistent with Rule 12b-1.
In no event shall the aggregate asset-based sales charges, which include
payments made under each plan, plus any other payments deemed to be made
pursuant to a plan, exceed the amount permitted to be paid under the rules of
the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
To the extent fees are for distribution or marketing functions, as
distinguished from administrative servicing or agency transactions, certain
banks will not be entitled to participate in the plans as a result of
applicable federal law prohibiting certain banks from engaging in the
distribution of mutual fund shares. These banking institutions, however, are
permitted to receive fees under the plans for administrative servicing or for
agency transactions. If you are a customer of a bank that is prohibited from
providing these services, you would be permitted to remain a shareholder of
the fund, and alternate means for continuing the servicing would be sought.
In this event, changes in the services provided might occur and you might no
longer be able to avail yourself of any automatic investment or other
services then being provided by the bank. It is not expected that you would
suffer any adverse financial consequences as a result of any of these changes.
Each plan has been approved in accordance with the provisions of Rule 12b-1.
The plans are renewable annually by a vote of the board, including a majority
vote of the board members who are not interested persons of the funds and who
have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of the plans,
cast in person at a meeting called for that purpose. It is also required that
the selection and nomination of such board members be done by the
noninterested members of the funds' board. The plans and any related
agreement may be terminated at any time, without penalty, by vote of a
majority of the noninterested board members on not more than 60 days' written
notice, by Distributors on not more than 60 days' written notice, by any act
that constitutes an assignment of the management agreement with the manager
or by vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of the class. Each Class A
plan may also be terminated by any act that constitutes an assignment of the
underwriting agreement with Distributors. Distributors or any dealer or other
firm may also terminate their respective distribution or service agreement at
any time upon written notice.
The plans and any related agreements may not be amended to increase
materially the amount to be spent for distribution expenses without approval
by a majority of the outstanding shares of the class, and all material
amendments to the plans or any related agreements shall be approved by a vote
of the noninterested board members, cast in person at a meeting called for
the purpose of voting on any such amendment.
Distributors is required to report in writing to the board at least quarterly
on the amounts and purpose of any payment made under the plans and any
related agreements, as well as to furnish the board with such other
information as may reasonably be requested in order to enable the board to
make an informed determination of whether the plans should be continued.
For the fiscal year ended September 30, 1998, Distributors eligible
expenditures for advertising, printing, and payments to underwriters and
broker-dealers pursuant to the plans and the amounts each fund paid
Distributors under the plans were as follows:
Distributors' Eligible
Expenses ($) Amount Paid by the Fund ($)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rising Dividends 2,203,900 2,017,988
Fund - Class A
Rising Dividends 505,175 270,090
Fund - Class C
Investment Grade 130,037 137,511
Fund - Class A
PERFORMANCE
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Performance quotations are subject to SEC rules. These rules require the use
of standardized performance quotations or, alternatively, that every
non-standardized performance quotation furnished by the funds be accompanied
by certain standardized performance information computed as required by the
SEC. Average annual total return and current yield quotations used by the
funds are based on the standardized methods of computing performance mandated
by the SEC. If a Rule 12b-1 plan is adopted, performance figures reflect fees
from the date of the plan's implementation. An explanation of these and other
methods used by the funds to compute or express performance follows.
Regardless of the method used, past performance does not guarantee future
results, and is an indication of the return to shareholders only for the
limited historical period used.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN Average annual total return is determined by
finding the average annual rates of return over the periods indicated below
that would equate an initial hypothetical $1,000 investment to its ending
redeemable value. The calculation assumes the maximum initial sales charge is
deducted from the initial $1,000 purchase, and income dividends and capital
gain distributions are reinvested at net asset value. The quotation assumes
the account was completely redeemed at the end of each period and the
deduction of all applicable charges and fees. If a change is made to the
sales charge structure, historical performance information will be restated
to reflect the maximum initial sales charge currently in effect.
When considering the average annual total return quotations, you should keep
in mind that the maximum initial sales charge reflected in each quotation is
a one time fee charged on all direct purchases, which will have its greatest
impact during the early stages of your investment. This charge will affect
actual performance less the longer you retain your investment in the funds.
The average annual total returns for the indicated periods ended September
30, 1998, were:
1 Year 5 Years 10 Years
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rising Dividends -14.27% 11.09% 11.32%
Fund - Class A
Investment Grade 2.00% 3.78% 6.62%
Fund - Class A
1 Year Since Inception (5/1/95)
- -------------------------------------------------------------
Rising Dividends -11.17% 16.77%
Fund - Class C
These figures were calculated according to the SEC formula:
n
P(1+T) = ERV
where:
P = a hypothetical initial payment of $1,000
T = average annual total return
n = number of years
ERV = ending redeemable value of a hypothetical $1,000
payment made at the beginning of each period at the end
of each period
CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN Like average annual total return, cumulative total
return assumes the maximum initial sales charge is deducted from the initial
$1,000 purchase, and income dividends and capital gain distributions are
reinvested at net asset value. Cumulative total return, however, is based on
the actual return for a specified period rather than on the average return
over the periods indicated above. The cumulative total returns for the
indicated periods ended September 30, 1998, were:
1 Year 5 Years 10 Years
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rising -14.27% 69.20% 192.17%
Dividends Fund
- - Class A
Investment 2.00% 20.36% 89.81%
Grade Fund -
Class A
1 Year Since Inception (5/1/95)
- -----------------------------------------------------------
Rising -11.17% 69.83%
Dividends Fund
- - Class C
CURRENT YIELD Current yield shows the income per share earned by the funds.
It is calculated by dividing the net investment income per share earned
during a 30-day base period by the applicable maximum offering price per
share on the last day of the period and annualizing the result. Expenses
accrued for the period include any fees charged to all shareholders of the
class during the base period. The yields for the 30-day period ended
September 30, 1998 are:
CLASS A CLASS C
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Rising Dividends Fund 0.80% 0.31%
Franklin Investment Grade Fund 4.08% N/A
These figures were obtained using the following SEC formula:
6
Yield = 2 [(a-b + 1) - 1]
---
cd
where:
a = dividends and interest earned during the period
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
CURRENT DISTRIBUTION RATE Current yield, which is calculated according to a
formula prescribed by the SEC, is not indicative of the amounts which were or
will be paid to shareholders. Amounts paid to shareholders are reflected in
the quoted current distribution rate. The current distribution rate is
usually computed by annualizing the dividends paid per share by a class
during a certain period and dividing that amount by the current maximum
offering price. The current distribution rate differs from the current yield
computation because it may include distributions to shareholders from sources
other than dividends and interest, such as premium income from option writing
and short-term capital gains, and is calculated over a different period of
time. The current distribution rates for the 30-day period ended September
30, 1998, were:
CLASS A CLASS C
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Franklin Rising Dividends Fund 0.81% 0.03%
Franklin Investment Grade Fund 4.54% N/A
VOLATILITY Occasionally statistics may be used to show the funds' volatility
or risk. Measures of volatility or risk are generally used to compare the
funds' net asset value or performance to a market index. One measure of
volatility is beta. Beta is the volatility of a fund relative to the total
market, as represented by an index considered representative of the types of
securities in which the funds invest. A beta of more than 1.00 indicates
volatility greater than the market and a beta of less than 1.00 indicates
volatility less than the market. Another measure of volatility or risk is
standard deviation. Standard deviation is used to measure variability of net
asset value or total return around an average over a specified period of
time. The idea is that greater volatility means greater risk undertaken in
achieving performance.
OTHER PERFORMANCE QUOTATIONS The funds may also quote the performance of
shares without a sales charge. Sales literature and advertising may quote a
cumulative total return, average annual total return and other measures of
performance with the substitution of net asset value for the public offering
price.
Sales literature referring to the use of a fund as a potential investment for
IRAs, business retirement plans, and other tax-advantaged retirement plans
may quote a total return based upon compounding of dividends on which it is
presumed no federal income tax applies.
Each fund may include in its advertising or sales material information
relating to investment goals and performance results of funds belonging to
the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. Franklin Resources, Inc. is the parent
company of the advisors and underwriter of the Franklin Templeton Group of
Funds.
COMPARISONS To help you better evaluate how an investment in a fund may
satisfy your investment goal, advertisements and other materials about the
funds may discuss certain measures of fund performance as reported by various
financial publications. Materials may also compare performance (as calculated
above) to performance as reported by other investments, indices, and
averages. These comparisons may include, but are not limited to, the
following examples:
o Dow Jones(R) Composite Average and its component averages - a
price-weighted average of 65 stocks that trade on the New York Stock
Exchange. The average is a combination of the Dow Jones Industrial Average
(30 blue-chip stocks that are generally leaders in their industry), the
Dow Jones Transportation Average (20 transportation stocks), and the Dow
Jones Utilities Average (15 utility stocks involved in the production of
electrical energy).
o Standard & Poor's(R) 500 Stock Index or its component indices - a
capitalization-weighted index designed to measure performance of the broad
domestic economy through changes in the aggregate market value of 500
stocks representing all major industries.
o The New York Stock Exchange composite or component indices - an
unmanaged index of all industrial, utilities, transportation, and finance
stocks listed on the NYSE.
o Wilshire 5000 Equity Index - represents the return on the market value of
all common equity securities for which daily pricing is available.
Comparisons of performance assume reinvestment of dividends.
o Lipper - Mutual Fund Performance Analysis and Lipper - Fixed Income Fund
Performance Analysis - measure total return and average current yield for
the mutual fund industry and rank individual mutual fund performance over
specified time periods, assuming reinvestment of all distributions,
exclusive of any applicable sales charges.
o CDA Mutual Fund Report, published by CDA Investment Technologies, Inc. -
analyzes price, current yield, risk, total return, and average rate of
return (average annual compounded growth rate) over specified time periods
for the mutual fund industry.
o Mutual Fund Source Book, published by Morningstar, Inc. - analyzes
price, yield, risk, and total return for mutual funds.
o Financial publications: The WALL STREET JOURNAL, and BUSINESS WEEK,
CHANGING TIMES, FINANCIAL WORLD, FORBES, FORTUNE, and MONEY magazines -
provide performance statistics over specified time periods.
o Consumer Price Index (or Cost of Living Index), published by the U.S.
Bureau of Labor Statistics - a statistical measure of change, over time,
in the price of goods and services in major expenditure groups.
o Stocks, Bonds, Bills, and Inflation, published by Ibbotson Associates -
historical measure of yield, price, and total return for common and small
company stock, long-term government bonds, Treasury bills, and inflation.
o Savings and Loan Historical Interest Rates - as published in the U.S.
Savings & Loan League Fact Book.
o Historical data supplied by the research departments of CS First Boston
Corporation, the J. P. Morgan companies, Salomon Brothers, Merrill Lynch,
Lehman Brothers and Bloomberg L.P.
o Morningstar - information published by Morningstar, Inc., including
Morningstar proprietary mutual fund ratings. The ratings reflect
Morningstar's assessment of the historical risk-adjusted performance of a
fund over specified time periods relative to other funds within its
category.
o Salomon Brothers Broad Bond Index or its component indices - measures
yield, price and total return for Treasury, agency, corporate and
mortgage bonds.
o Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index or its component indices -
measures yield, price and total return for Treasury, agency,
corporate, mortgage and Yankee bonds.
o Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond Index or its component indices -
measures yield, price and total return for the municipal bond market.
o Bond Buyer 20 Index - an index of municipal bond yields based upon
yields of 20 general obligation bonds maturing in 20 years.
o Bond Buyer 40 Index - an index composed of the yield to maturity of
40 bonds. The index attempts to track the new-issue market as closely
as possible, so it changes bonds twice a month, adding all new bonds
that meet certain requirements and deleting an equivalent number
according to their secondary market trading activity. As a result, the
average par call date, average maturity date, and average coupon rate
can and have changed over time. The average maturity generally has
been about 29-30 years.
o Salomon Brothers Composite High Yield Index or its component indices
- measures yield, price and total return for the Long-Term High-Yield
Index, Intermediate-Term High-Yield Index, and Long-Term Utility
High-Yield Index.
From time to time, advertisements or information for a fund may include a
discussion of certain attributes or benefits to be derived from an investment
in the funds. The advertisements or information may include symbols,
headlines, or other material that highlights or summarizes the information
discussed in more detail in the communication.
Advertisements or information may also compare each fund's performance to the
return on certificates of deposit (CDs) or other investments. You should be
aware, however, that an investment in a fund involves the risk of fluctuation
of principal value, a risk generally not present in an investment in a CD
issued by a bank. For example, as the general level of interest rates rise,
the value of a fund's fixed-income investments, if any, as well as the value
of its shares that are based upon the value of such portfolio investments,
can be expected to decrease. Conversely, when interest rates decrease, the
value of a fund's shares can be expected to increase. CDs are frequently
insured by an agency of the U.S. government. An investment in a fund is not
insured by any federal, state or private entity.
In assessing comparisons of performance, you should keep in mind that the
composition of the investments in the reported indices and averages is not
identical to a fund's portfolio, the indices and averages are generally
unmanaged, and the items included in the calculations of the averages may not
be identical to the formula used by the fund to calculate its figures. In
addition, there can be no assurance that a fund will continue its performance
as compared to these other averages.
MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The funds may help you achieve various investment goals such as accumulating
money for retirement, saving for a down payment on a home, college costs and
other long-term goals. The Franklin College Costs Planner may help you in
determining how much money must be invested on a monthly basis in order to
have a projected amount available in the future to fund a child's college
education. (Projected college cost estimates are based upon current costs
published by the College Board.) The Franklin Retirement Planning Guide leads
you through the steps to start a retirement savings program. Of course, an
investment in a fund cannot guarantee that these goals will be met.
Each fund is a member of the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds, one of the
largest mutual fund organizations in the U.S., and may be considered in a
program for diversification of assets. Founded in 1947, Franklin is one of
the oldest mutual fund organizations and now services more than 3 million
shareholder accounts. In 1992, Franklin, a leader in managing fixed-income
mutual funds and an innovator in creating domestic equity funds, joined
forces with Templeton, a pioneer in international investing. The Mutual
Series team, known for its value-driven approach to domestic equity
investing, became part of the organization four years later. Together, the
Franklin Templeton Group has over $208 billion in assets under management for
more than 6 million U.S. based mutual fund shareholder and other accounts.
The Franklin Templeton Group of Funds offers 117 U.S. based open-end
investment companies to the public. Each fund may identify itself by its
NASDAQ symbol or CUSIP number.
Currently, there are more mutual funds than there are stocks listed on the
New York Stock Exchange. While many of them have similar investment goals, no
two are exactly alike. Shares of the funds are generally sold through
securities dealers, whose investment representatives are experienced
professionals who can offer advice on the type of investments suitable to
your unique goals and needs, as well as the risks associated with such
investments.
The Information Services & Technology division of Franklin Resources, Inc.
(Resources) established a Year 2000 Project Team in 1996. This team has
already begun making necessary software changes to help the computer systems
that service the funds and their shareholders to be Year 2000 compliant.
After completing these modifications, comprehensive tests are conducted in
one of Resources' U.S. test labs to verify their effectiveness. Resources
continues to seek reasonable assurances from all major hardware, software or
data-services suppliers that they will be Year 2000 compliant on a timely
basis. Resources is also beginning to develop a contingency plan, including
identification of those mission critical systems for which it is practical to
develop a contingency plan. However, in an operation as complex and
geographically distributed as Resources' business, the alternatives to use of
normal systems, especially mission critical systems, or supplies of
electricity or long distance voice and data lines are limited.
DESCRIPTION OF BOND RATINGS
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
CORPORATE BOND RATINGS
MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. (MOODY'S)
Aaa - Bonds 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-edged." Interest payments are protected by a large or 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.
Aa - Bonds rated Aa are judged to be 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, fluctuation of protective elements may be of greater
amplitude, or there may be other elements present that make the long-term
risks appear somewhat larger.
A - Bonds rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and are
considered upper medium-grade obligations. Factors giving security to
principal and interest are considered adequate, but elements may be present
that suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
Baa - Bonds rated Baa are considered medium-grade obligations. They are
neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments and principal
security appear adequate for the present but certain protective elements may
be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great length of
time. These bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and, in fact,
have speculative characteristics as well.
Ba - Bonds rated Ba are judged to have predominantly speculative elements and
their future cannot be considered well assured. Often the protection of
interest and principal payments is very moderate and, thereby, not well
safeguarded during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of
position characterizes bonds in this class.
B - Bonds 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.
Caa - Bonds rated Caa are of poor standing. These issues may be in default or
there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal or interest.
Ca - Bonds rated Ca represent obligations that are speculative to a high
degree. These issues are often in default or have other marked shortcomings.
C - Bonds rated C are the lowest rated class of bonds and can be regarded as
having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining any real investment
standing.
Note: Moody's applies numerical modifiers 1, 2 and 3 in each generic rating
classification from Aa through B in its corporate bond ratings. The modifier
1 indicates that the security ranks in the higher end of its generic rating
category; modifier 2 indicates a mid-range ranking; and modifier 3 indicates
that the issue ranks in the lower end of its generic rating category.
STANDARD & POOR'S CORPORATION (S&P)
AAA - This is the highest rating assigned by S&P to a debt obligation and
indicates an extremely strong capacity to pay principal and interest.
AA - Bonds rated AA also qualify as high-quality debt obligations. Capacity
to pay principal and interest is very strong and, in the majority of
instances, differ from AAA issues only in a small degree.
A - Bonds rated A have a strong capacity to pay principal and interest,
although they are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes
in circumstances and economic conditions.
BBB - Bonds rated BBB are regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay
principal and interest. Whereas they normally exhibit protection parameters,
adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead
to a weakened capacity to pay principal and interest for bonds in this
category than for bonds in the A category.
BB, B, CCC, CC - Bonds rated BB, B, CCC and CC are regarded, on balance, as
predominantly speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity to pay
interest and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the obligations.
BB indicates the lowest degree of speculation and CC the highest degree of
speculation. While these bonds will likely have some quality and protective
characteristics, they are outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk
exposures to adverse conditions.
C - Bonds rated C are typically subordinated debt to senior debt that is
assigned an actual or implied CCC- rating. The C rating may also reflect the
filing of a bankruptcy petition under circumstances where debt service
payments are continuing. The C1 rating is reserved for income bonds on which
no interest is being paid.
D - Debt rated D is in default and payment of interest and/or repayment of
principal is in arrears.
Plus (+) or minus (-): The ratings from "AA" to "CCC" may be modified by the
addition of a plus or minus sign to show relative standing within the major
rating categories.
COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
MOODY'S
Moody's commercial paper ratings are opinions of the ability of issuers to
repay punctually their promissory obligations not having an original maturity
in excess of nine months. Moody's employs the following designations, all
judged to be investment grade, to indicate the relative repayment capacity of
rated issuers:
P-1 (Prime-1): Superior capacity for repayment.
P-2 (Prime-2): Strong capacity for repayment.
S&P
S&P's ratings are a current assessment of the likelihood of timely payment of
debt having an original maturity of no more than 365 days. Ratings are graded
into four categories, ranging from "A" for the highest quality obligations to
"D" for the lowest. Issues within the "A" category are delineated with the
numbers 1, 2 and 3 to indicate the relative degree of safety, as follows:
A-1: This designation indicates the degree of safety regarding timely payment
is very strong. A "plus" (+) designation indicates an even stronger
likelihood of timely payment.
A-2: Capacity for timely payment on issues with this designation is strong.
The relative degree of safety, however, is not as overwhelming as for issues
designated A-1.
A-3: Issues carrying this designation have a satisfactory capacity for timely
payment. They are, however, somewhat more vulnerable to the adverse effects
of changes in circumstances than obligations carrying the higher designations.
FRANKLIN INVESTMENT GRADE INCOME FUND
ADVISOR CLASS
FRANKLIN MANAGED TRUST
STATEMENT OF
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
FEBRUARY 1, 1999
777 MARINERS ISLAND BLVD., P.O. BOX 7777
SAN MATEO, CA 94403-7777 1-800/DIAL BEN(R)
This Statement of Additional Information (SAI) is not a prospectus. It
contains information in addition to the information in the fund's prospectus.
The fund's prospectus, dated February 1, 1999, which we may amend from time
to time, contains the basic information you should know before investing in
the fund. You should read this SAI together with the fund's prospectus.
The audited financial statements and auditor's report in the trust's Annual
Report to Shareholders, for the fiscal year ended September 30, 1998, are
incorporated by reference (are legally a part of this SAI).
For a free copy of the current prospectus or annual report, contact your
investment representative or call 1-800/DIAL BEN (1-800/342-5236).
CONTENTS
Goal and Strategies
Risks
Officers and Trustees
Management and Other Services
Portfolio Transactions
Distributions and Taxes
Organization, Voting Rights and Principal Holders
Buying and Selling Shares
Pricing Shares
The Underwriter
Performance
Miscellaneous Information
Description of Bond Ratings
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MUTUAL FUNDS, ANNUITIES, AND OTHER INVESTMENT PRODUCTS:
o ARE NOT FEDERALLY INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION,
THE FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD, OR ANY OTHER AGENCY OF THE U.S. GOVERNMENT;
o ARE NOT DEPOSITS OR OBLIGATIONS OF, OR GUARANTEED OR ENDORSED BY, ANY
BANK;
o ARE SUBJECT TO INVESTMENT RISKS, INCLUDING THE POSSIBLE LOSS OF PRINCIPAL.
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GOAL AND STRATEGIES
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The fund's investment goal is to seek a maximum level of income consistent
with prudent exposure to risk. This goal is fundamental, which means it may
not be changed without shareholder approval.
The fund tries to achieve its goal by investing primarily in
intermediate-term, investment grade debt securities. It may also invest in
dividend-paying common and preferred stocks.
At times, particularly during periods when the yield curve is positive, the
fund will try to provide a higher yield than that available from a money
market fund, while attempting to avoid the potential risks to principal often
associated with both non-investment grade securities and longer-term
instruments.
Below is a description of various types of securities that the fund may buy.
DEBT SECURITIES represent an obligation of the issuer to repay a loan of
money to it, and generally, provide for the payment of interest. These
include bonds, notes and debentures; commercial paper; time deposits;
bankers' acceptances. A debt security typically has a fixed payment schedule
which obligates the issuer to pay interest to the lender and to return the
lender's money over a certain time period. A company typically meets its
payment obligations associated with its outstanding debt securities before it
declares and pays any dividend to holders of its equity securities. Bonds,
notes, debentures and commercial paper differ in the length of the issuer's
payment schedule, with bonds carrying the longest repayment schedule and
commercial paper the shortest.
The market value of debt securities generally varies in response to changes
in interest rates and the financial condition of each issuer. During periods
of declining interest rates, the value of debt securities generally
increases. Conversely, during periods of rising interest rates, the value of
such securities generally declines. These changes in market value will be
reflected in the fund's net asset value.
Independent rating organizations rate debt securities based upon their
assessment of the financial soundness of the issuer. Debt securities within
the top three categories (AAA, AA, A by Standard & Poor's Corporation (S&P)
or Aaa, Aa, A by Moody's Investors Services (Moody's) comprise what are known
as high-grade bonds and are regarded as having a strong capacity to pay
principal and interest. Medium-grade bonds (BBB by S&P or Baa by Moody's) are
regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay principal and interest but
with greater vulnerability to adverse economic conditions and some
speculative characteristics. Debt securities rated B by Moody's are regarded
as generally lacking the characteristics of desirable investments and, in
Moody's judgment, assurance of interest and principal payments or of
maintenance of other terms of the contract over any long period of time may
be small. Debt securities rated BB or B by S&P are regarded, on balance, as
predominantly speculative with respect to the capacity to pay interest and
repay principal in accordance with the terms of the obligation. Generally, a
lower rating indicates higher risk.
The fund may invest up to 25% of its total assets in non-investment grade
securities (rated lower than BBB by S&P or Baa by Moody's.) The fund,
however, will not invest in any debt securities rated lower than B by Moody's
or S&P. Similarily, the fund will not invest in any unrated debt securities
that the fund considers to be of lower comparable quality than securities
rated B by Moody's or S&P. At present, the fund does not intend to invest
more than 5% of its assets in debt securities rated below Baa by Moody's or
BBB by S&P.
Although market risks are inherent in any investment program, the fund
believes that, for securities rated "investment grade," these risks may be
reduced by the manager's careful analysis of the relative values offered
among the investment alternatives available at the time of purchase.
Moreover, while the opinion of the rating services is considered in selecting
securities rated lower than "investment grade" for the fund's portfolio, the
manager relies primarily on its own credit analysis, which consists of a
study of the existing debt issuer's capital structure, ability to service
debt and to pay dividends, and the current trend of earnings, for any such
company under consideration for investment by the fund. The net asset value
per share of the fund will fluctuate, however, as the market value of its
investment portfolio fluctuates.
Although the fund normally invests at least 65% of its total assets in
intermediate-term obligations, the fund may invest the remaining 35%, to the
extent available and permissible, in obligations with maturities that are
shorter than two years or longer than ten years at the time of purchase. The
average maturity of the debt securities in the fund's portfolio will
fluctuate depending upon the manager's judgment as to future interest rate
changes.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON RATES OF RETURN. Since 1926 bonds have typically
provided a return averaging over 2% above the inflation rate. The following
table demonstrates the real rate of return from corporate bonds rated "A" by
Moody's over the past ten years. Investors should note that the fund's
portfolio is not comprised exclusively of such bonds. Accordingly, the table
is for illustrative purposes only and is not indicative of the fund's past,
present or future performance. Moreover, historical returns are not
indicative of future returns. The source of this information is the U.S.
Bureau of Labor Statistics and Lehman Brothers:
REAL RATES OF RETURN
Lehman
Brothers Real
Corporate Inflation Rate of
A Bond Index1 Rate (CPI)2 Return
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1988 ....................... 8.78% 4.42% 4.18%
1989 ....................... 14.15 4.65 9.08
1990 ....................... 7.33 6.11 1.15
1991 ....................... 18.70 3.06 15.18
1992 ....................... 8.80 2.90 5.73
1993 ....................... 12.01 2.75 9.01
1994 ....................... -4.23 2.67 -6.72
1995 ....................... 22.41 2.54 19.38
1996 ....................... 3.17 3.32 -0.15
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1997 ....................... 9.72 1.70 7.89
Average .................... 10.08 3.41 6.47
1. Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal (Lehman Brothers Corporate A Bond Index).
Investors cannot invest directly in an index.
2. Standard & Poor's(R) Micropal (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Inflation
rate is demonstrated by annual rates of the Consumer Price Index (CPI).
PUTABLE BONDS are obligations that allow a holder to redeem the securities at
the holder's option on a date or dates before the final stated maturity. The
fund will consider the optional redemption date or dates as the effective
maturity of the obligations. When purchasing obligations that require the
obligor to repay periodically portions of the obligation before the stated
final maturity (whether by operation of a fixed known pro rata sinking fund
or, as in collateralized securities, by the periodic passing through of
variable payments made to the issuer on the underlying collateral), the
expected average life or average term of the investment may also be
considered to be its effective maturity. These are not a fundamental policy
of the fund and may be changed by the fund's board of trustees.
U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES The fund may invest in all types of U.S.
government securities including: (1) U.S. Treasury obligations with varying
interest rates, maturities and dates of issuance, such as U.S. Treasury bills
(maturities of one year or less), U.S. Treasury notes (original maturities of
one to ten years) and U.S. Treasury bonds (generally original maturities of
greater than ten years); and (2) obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S.
government agencies and instrumentalities such as the Government National
Mortgage Association ("GNMA"), the Export-Import Bank and the Farmers Home
Administration. Some of the fund's investments will include obligations that
are supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government. In the
case of U.S. government obligations that are not backed by the full faith and
credit of the U.S. government (e.g., obligations of the Federal National
Mortgage Association ("FNMA") and a Federal Home Loan Bank), the fund must
look principally to the agency issuing or guaranteeing the obligation for
ultimate repayment and may not be able to assert a claim against the United
States itself in the event the agency or instrumentality does not meet its
commitments.
FOREIGN SECURITIES Investments in debt securities issued by foreign
corporations, governments and their instrumentaliites, and by supranational
entities offer potential benefits not available from investments solely in
securities issued by the U.S. government. The fund presently has no intention
of investing more than 25% of its assets in foreign debt securities. The fund
does not presently intend to buy debt securities of issuers in developing
nations.
A supranational entity is an entity designated or supported by the national
government of one or more countries to promote economic reconstruction or
development. Examples of supranational entities include, among others, the
World Bank, the European Development Bank and the Asian Development Bank.
The fund may invest in securities issued in any currency and may hold foreign
currency to the extent consistent with its goal and policies. Securities of
issuers within a given country (including Canadian provinces and their
instrumentalities) may be denominated in the currency of that or another
country, or in multinational currency units.
COLLATERALIZED OBLIGATIONS generally are bonds issued by single purpose,
stand-alone finance subsidiaries or trusts of financial institutions,
government agencies or instrumentalities, investment bankers or other similar
institutions, such as Collateralized Automobile Receivables ("CARs") and
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations ("CMOs"). The collateralized obligations
will either be issued or guaranteed by a U.S. government agency or
instrumentality rated AAA by a nationally recognized statistical rating
agency.
CARs are generally automobile loan pass-through certificates issued by single
purpose, stand alone financial subsidiaries or trusts (such as Grantor
Trusts) of financial institutions, government agencies or instrumentalities,
investment bankers or other similar institutions.
CMOs purchased by the fund may be:
(1) collateralized by pools of mortgages in which each mortgage is guaranteed
as to payment of principal and interest by an agency or instrumentality of
the U.S. government;
(2) collateralized by pools of mortgages in which payment of principal and
interest are guaranteed by the issuer and the guarantee is collateralized by
U.S. government securities; or
(3) securities in which the proceeds of the issuance are invested in mortgage
securities and payment of the principal and interest is supported by the
credit of an agency or instrumentality of the U.S. government.
EQUITY SECURITIES generally entitle the holder to participate in a company's
general operating results. The purchaser of an equity security typically
receives an ownership interest in the company as well as certain voting
rights. The owner of an equity security may participate in a company's
success through the receipt of dividends which are distributions of earnings
by the company to its owners. Equity security owners may also participate in
a company's success or lack of success through increases or decreases in the
value of the company's shares as traded in the public trading market for such
shares. Equity securities generally take the form of common stock or
preferred stock. Preferred stockholders typically receive greater dividends
but may receive less appreciation than common stockholders and may have
greater voting rights as well. Equity securities may also include convertible
securities, which are debt securities or preferred stocks which are
convertible into common stock after certain time periods or under certain
circumstances. The fund will not invest in any equity securities of an issuer
if a majority of the issuer's debt securities are rated lower than B by
Moody's or S&P.
DERIVATIVE SECURITIES Although the fund has no present intention of investing
in the following, it has the authority to enter into options on securities
and options on futures, which are generally considered "derivative
securities."
OPTIONS ON SECURITIES. The fund may write covered call and put options and
under limited circumstances purchase certain options on securities. An
option on a security is a contract that allows the buyer of the option the
right to buy or sell a specific security at a stated price during the
option's term. The principal reason for writing call or put options is to
obtain, through the receipt of premiums, a greater current return than would
be realized on the underlying securities alone. The fund's current return can
be expected to fluctuate because opportunities to realize net gains from a
covered call and put option writing program and income yields vary as
economic and market conditions change. The fund may receive a higher or lower
total return from its positions in options than it would have received from
its underlying securities if they had not been subject to options.
The fund does not engage in option writing strategies for speculative
purposes, and writes call and put options on a covered basis only.
The fund may also purchase call and put options on securities, but only for
limited purposes. The fund may purchase put options only on U.S. government
securities in its portfolio in anticipation of a decline in the market value
of such securities and then only in amounts not exceeding 10% of its total
assets. The fund's ability to purchase put options allows it to protect
unrealized gains in appreciated U.S. government securities in its portfolio
without actually selling the securities and while continuing to receive
interest income on the securities.
The writing and purchasing of options is a highly specialized activity that
involves investment techniques and risks different from those associated with
ordinary portfolio securities transactions. The fund will pay brokerage
commissions or spreads in connection with its options transactions, as well
as for purchases and sales of underlying securities. The writing of options
could result in significant increases in the fund's portfolio turnover rate.
OPTIONS ON FUTURES. The fund may purchase put and call options on interest
rate futures contracts that are traded on exchanges licensed and regulated by
the Commodities Futures Trading Commission (CFTC) for the purposes of options
trading. The fund may not purchase or sell options on interest rate futures
contracts if immediately thereafter the value of those contracts would
constitute more than 30% of the fund's total assets or if the sum of the
premiums paid for the options would exceed 5% of the fund's total assets.
A "call" option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right, in
return for the premium paid, to purchase a futures contract (assume a "long"
position) at a specified exercise price at any time before the option
expires. A "put" option gives the purchaser the right, in return for the
premium paid, to sell a futures contract (assume a "short" position) for a
specified exercise price at any time before the option expires. Interest rate
futures contracts are contracts for the future delivery of U.S. government
securities and index-based futures contracts that are, in the opinion of the
manager, sufficiently correlated with the fund's portfolio to permit
effective hedging against adverse changes in interest rates.
Upon the exercise of a call option, the writer of the option is obligated to
sell the futures contract (i.e., to deliver a "long" position to the fund as
the option holder) at the option exercise price, which will presumably be
lower than the current market price of the contract in the futures market.
Upon exercise of a put option, the writer of the option is obligated to
purchase the futures contract (i.e., deliver a "short" position to the fund
as the option holder) at the option exercise price, which will presumably be
higher than the current market price of the contract in the futures market.
The fund is entitled to be paid the amount of any gain realized by it with
respect to any option it has purchased upon the exercise of the option. Most
participants in the options markets, however, do not seek to realize their
gains or losses by exercise of their options rights. Instead, the holder of
an option will usually realize a gain or loss by buying or selling an
offsetting option at a market price that will reflect an increase or a
decrease from the premium originally paid. The fund's ability to establish
and close out options positions at fairly established prices is subject to
the maintenance of a liquid market.
If the fund purchases an option on a futures contract, it may obtain benefits
similar to those that would result if it held the futures position itself.
But, in contrast to a futures transaction in which only transaction costs are
involved, the benefits received in an option transaction will be reduced by
the amount of the premium and transaction costs paid by the fund. There may
also be circumstances when the purchase of an option on an interest rate
futures contract would result in a loss to the fund when the purchase (or
sale) of the futures contract itself would not result in a loss, such as when
there is no movement in the price of the futures contract or the underlying
security. In the event of an adverse market movement, however, the fund will
not be subject to a risk of loss on the option transaction beyond the price
of the premium paid, plus any transaction costs.
LIMITATIONS ON FUTURES TRANSACTIONS. The fund has represented to the CFTC
that it will not purchase any options on interest rate futures contracts if,
as a result, the sum of premiums paid for the options the fund has purchased
would exceed 5% of the fund's total assets. This limitation on the fund's
options transactions is not fundamental and may be changed by the board of
trustees as the CFTC permits.
U.S. TREASURY ROLLS The fund may enter into "U.S. Treasury rolls" in which
the fund sells outstanding U.S. Treasury securities and buys back
"when-issued" U.S. Treasury securities of slightly longer maturity for
simultaneous settlement on the settlement date of the "when-issued" U.S.
Treasury security. Two potential advantages of this strategy are 1) the fund
can regularly and incrementally adjust its weighted average maturity (which
otherwise would constantly diminish with the passage of time); and 2) in a
normal yield curve environment (in which shorter maturities yield less than
longer maturities), a gain in yield to maturity can be obtained along with
the desired extension.
During the period before the settlement date, the fund continues to earn
interest on the securities it is selling. It does not earn interest on the
securities that it is purchasing until after the settlement date. The fund
could suffer an opportunity loss if the counterparty to the roll failed to
perform its obligations on the settlement date, and if market conditions
changed adversely. The fund intends, however, to enter into U.S. Treasury
rolls only with government securities dealers recognized by the Federal
Reserve Board or with member banks of the Federal Reserve System.
SECURITIES LENDING The fund may lend to broker-dealers portfolio securities
with an aggregate market value up to 30% of its total assets. Such loans must
be secured by collateral (consisting of any combination of cash, U.S.
government securities or irrevocable letters of credit) in an amount at least
equal (on a daily marked-to-market basis) to the current market value of the
securities loaned. The fund may terminate the loans at any time and obtain
the return of the securities. The fund will continue to receive any interest
or dividends paid on the loaned securities and will continue to have voting
rights with respect to the securities.
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS The fund will generally have a portion of its assets in
cash or cash equivalents for a variety of reasons including waiting for a
special investment opportunity or taking a defensive position. To earn income
on this portion of its assets, the fund may enter into repurchase agreements
with certain banks and broker-dealers. Under a repurchase agreement, the fund
agrees to buy a U.S. government security from one of these issuers and then
to sell the security back to the issuer after a short period of time
(generally, less than seven days) at a higher price. The bank or
broker-dealer must transfer to the fund's custodian, securities with an
initial value of at least 102% of the dollar amount invested by the fund in
each repurchase agreement. Repurchase agreements may involve risks in the
event of default or insolvency of the seller, including possible delays or
restrictions upon the fund's ability to dispose of the underlying securities.
The fund will enter into repurchase agreements only with parties who meet
creditworthiness standards approved by the fund's board of trustees, i.e.,
banks or broker-dealers which have been determined by the manager to present
no serious risk of becoming involved in bankruptcy proceedings within the
time frame contemplated by the repurchase transaction.
ILLIQUID INVESTMENTS The fund's policy is not to invest more than 10% of its
net assets in illiquid securities. Illiquid securities are generally
securities that cannot be sold within seven days in the normal course of
business at approximately the amount at which the fund has valued them.
BORROWING The fund may borrow money only from banks for temporary or
emergency purposes in amounts not to exceed 15% of the fund's total assets,
and additional investments may not be made while any amounts borrowed are in
excess of 5% of the fund's total assets.
TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS When the manager believes that the securities trading
markets or the economy are experiencing excessive volatility or a prolonged
general decline, or other adverse conditions exist, it may invest the fund's
portfolio in a temporary defensive manner. Under such circumstances, the fund
may invest up to 100% of its assets in U.S. government securities, bank CD's,
bankers' acceptances, high-grade commercial paper issued by domestic
corporations and commercial deposits or equivalents.
INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS The fund has adopted the following restrictions as
fundamental policies. This means they may only be changed if the change is
approved by (i) more than 50% of the fund's outstanding shares or (ii) 67% or
more of the fund's shares present at a shareholder meeting if more than 50%
of the fund's outstanding shares are represented at the meeting in person or
by proxy, whichever is less.
The fund may not:
1. Invest in the securities of any one issuer (other than the U.S.
government and its agencies and instrumentalities), if immediately after and
as a result of such investment (a) more than 5% of the total assets of the
fund would be invested in such issuer or (b) more than 10% of the outstanding
voting securities of such issuer would be owned by the fund.
2. Make loans to others, except (a) through the purchase of debt securities
in accordance with its investment objectives and policies, (b) through the
lending of its portfolio securities as described above and in its prospectus,
or (c) to the extent the entry into a repurchase agreement is deemed to be a
loan.
3. (a) Borrow money, except temporarily for extraordinary or emergency
purposes from a bank and then not in excess of 15% of its total assets (at
the lower of cost or fair market value) or (b) mortgage, pledge or
hypothecate any of its assets except in connection with any such borrowings.
Any such borrowing will be made only if immediately thereafter there is an
asset coverage of at least 300% of all borrowings, and no additional
investments may be made while any such borrowings are in excess of 5% of
total assets.
4. Purchase securities on margin, sell securities short, participate on a
joint or joint and several basis in any securities trading account, or
underwrite securities. (Does not preclude the fund from obtaining such
short-term credit as may be necessary for the clearance of purchases and
sales of its portfolio securities.)
5. Buy or sell interests in oil, gas or mineral exploration or development
programs, or real estate. (Does not preclude investments in marketable
securities of companies engaged in such activities.)
6. Purchase or hold securities of any issuer if, at the time of purchase or
thereafter, any of the trustees or officers of the Trust or the manager owns
beneficially more than one-half of 1%, and all such trustees or officers
holding more than one-half of 1% together own beneficially more than 5% of
the issuer's securities.
7. Purchase or sell commodities or commodity contracts or invest in put,
call, straddle or spread options. (Does not preclude bona fide hedging
transactions by the fund, including the purchase or sale of options and
options on futures contracts.)
8. Invest more than 10% of its assets in securities with legal or
contractual restrictions on resale, securities which are not readily
marketable, and repurchase agreements with more than seven days to maturity.
9. Invest in any issuer for purposes of exercising control or management.
10. Invest more than 25% of the market value of its assets in the securities
of companies engaged in any one industry. (Does not apply to investment in
the securities of the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities.)
ADDITIONAL RESTRICTIONS. The fund presently has the following additional
restrictions, which are not fundamental and may be changed without
shareholder approval. Under these restrictions, the fund may not:
1. Invest more than 5% of the value of its total assets in securities of any
issuer which has not had a record, together with predecessors, of at least
three years of continuous operation.
2. Invest in securities of other investment companies, except as they may be
acquired as part of a merger, consolidation or acquisition of assets.
3. Issue senior securities, as defined in the 1940 Act, except that this
restriction shall not be deemed to prohibit the fund from (a) making any
permitted borrowings, mortgages or pledges, or (b) entering into repurchase
transactions.
If a bankruptcy or other extraordinary event occurs concerning a particular
security the fund owns, the fund may receive stock, real estate, or other
investments that the fund would not, or could not, buy. If this happens, the
fund intends to sell such investments as soon as practicable while maximizing
the return to shareholders.
If a percentage restriction is met at the time of investment, a later
increase or decrease in the percentage due to a change in the value or
liquidity of portfolio securities or the amount of assets will not be
considered a violation of any of the foregoing restrictions.
RISKS
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
There is no assurance that the fund will meet its investment goal.
Investments in securities that have potential to increase in value may be
subject to a greater degree of risk and may be more volatile than other types
of investments.
The value of your shares will increase as the value of the securities owned
by the fund increases and will decrease as the value of the fund's
investments decrease. In this way, you participate in any change in the value
of the securities owned by the fund. In addition to the factors that affect
the value of any particular security that the fund owns, the value of fund
shares may also change with movements in the stock market as a whole.
INTEREST RATE RISK Because the fund invests primarily in debt securities,
changes in interest rates in any country where the fund is invested will
affect the value of the fund's portfolio and, consequently, its share price.
Rising interest rates, which often occur during times of inflation or a
growing economy, are likely to cause the face value of a debt security to
decrease, having a negative effect on the value of the fund's shares. Of
course, interest rates have increased and decreased, sometimes very
dramatically, in the past. These changes are likely to occur again in the
future at unpredictable times.
FOREIGN SECURITIES You should consider carefully the substantial risks
involved in securities of companies of foreign nations, which are in addition
to the usual risks inherent in domestic investments.
There may be less publicly available information about foreign companies
comparable to the reports and ratings published about companies in the U.S.
Foreign companies are not generally subject to uniform accounting or
financial reporting standards, and auditing practices and requirements may
not be comparable to those applicable to U.S. companies. A fund, therefore,
may encounter difficulty in obtaining market quotations for purposes of
valuing its portfolio and calculating its net asset value. Foreign markets
have substantially less volume than the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE"),
and securities of some foreign companies are less liquid and more volatile
than securities of comparable U.S. companies. Commission rates in foreign
countries, which are generally fixed rather than subject to negotiation as in
the U.S., are likely to be higher. In many foreign countries there is less
government supervision and regulation of stock exchanges, brokers, and listed
companies than in the U.S.
Investments in companies domiciled in developing countries may be subject to
potentially higher risks than investments in developed countries. These risks
include (i) less social, political, and economic stability; (ii) the small
current size of the markets for such securities and the currently low or
nonexistent volume of trading, which result in a lack of 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.
In addition, many countries in which the fund may invest 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 negative effects on the economies and securities markets of
certain countries. Moreover, the economies of some developing countries may
differ favorably or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as
growth of gross domestic product, rate of inflation, currency depreciation,
capital reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency, and balance of payments
position.
CURRENCY RISK The fund's management endeavors to buy and sell foreign
currencies on as favorable a basis as practicable. Some price spread on
currency exchange (to cover service charges) may be incurred, particularly
when the fund changes investments from one country to another or when
proceeds of the sale of shares in U.S. dollars are used for the purchase of
securities in foreign countries. Also, some countries may adopt policies that
would prevent the fund from transferring cash out of the country or withhold
portions of interest and dividends at the source. There is the possibility of
cessation of trading on national exchanges, expropriation, nationalization,
or confiscatory taxation, withholding, and other foreign taxes on income or
other amounts, foreign exchange controls (which may include suspension of the
ability to transfer currency from a given country), default in foreign
government securities, political or social instability, or diplomatic
developments that could affect investments in securities of issuers in
foreign nations.
The fund may be affected either favorably or unfavorably by fluctuations in
the relative rates of exchange between the currencies of different nations,
by exchange control regulations, and by indigenous economic and political
developments. Some countries in which the fund may invest may also have fixed
or managed currencies that are not free-floating against the U.S. dollar.
Further, certain currencies may not be internationally traded.
Certain of these currencies have experienced a steady 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. Through the fund's flexible policy, management endeavors to avoid
unfavorable consequences and to take advantage of favorable developments in
particular nations where, from time to time, it places the fund's investments.
The exercise of this flexible policy may include decisions to purchase
securities with substantial risk characteristics and other decisions such as
changing the emphasis on investments from one nation to another and from one
type of security to another. Some of these decisions may later prove
profitable and others may not. No assurance can be given that profits, if
any, will exceed losses.
The board of trustees considers at least annually the likelihood of the
imposition by any foreign government of exchange control restrictions which
would affect the liquidity of the fund's assets maintained with custodians in
foreign countries, as well as the degree of risk from political acts of
foreign governments to which such assets may be exposed. The board of
trustees also considers the degree of risk involved through the holding of
portfolio securities in domestic and foreign securities depositories.
However, in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith, or gross
negligence on the part of the manager, any losses resulting from the holding
of the fund's portfolio securities in foreign countries and/or with
securities depositories will be at the risk of the shareholders. No
assurance can be given that the board of trustees' appraisal of the risks
will always be correct or that such exchange control restrictions or
political acts of foreign governments might not occur.
EURO RISK On January 1, 1999, the European Monetary Union (EMU) plans to
introduce a new single currency, the euro, which will replace the national
currency for participating member countries. The transition and the
elimination of currency risk among EMU countries may change the economic
environment and behavior of investors, particularly in European markets.
Franklin Resources, Inc. has created an interdepartmental team to handle all
euro-related changes to enable the Franklin Templeton Funds to process
transactions accurately and completely with minimal disruption to business
activities. While the implementation of the euro could have a negative effect
on the fund, the fund's manager and its affiliated services providers are
taking steps they believe are reasonably designed to address the euro issue.
LOWER-RATED SECURITIES Although they may offer higher yields than do higher
rated securities, low rated and unrated debt securities generally involve
greater volatility of price and risk to principal and income, including the
possibility of default by, or bankruptcy or, the issuers of the securities.
In addition, the markets in which low rated and unrated debt securities are
traded are more limited than those in which higher rated securities are
traded. The existence of limited markets for particular securities may
diminish a fund's ability to sell the securities at fair value either to meet
redemption requests or to respond to a specific economic event such as a
deterioration in the creditworthiness of the issuer. Reduced secondary market
liquidity for certain low rated or unrated debt securities may also make it
more difficult for a fund to obtain accurate market quotations for the
purposes of valuing the fund's portfolio. Market quotations are generally
available on many low rated or unrated securities only from a limited number
of dealers and may not necessarily represent firm bids of such dealers or
prices for actual sales.
Adverse publicity and investor perceptions, whether or not based on
fundamental analysis, may decrease the values and liquidity of low rated dent
securities, especially in a thinly traded market. Analysis of the
creditworthiness of issuers of low rated debt securities may be more complex
than for issuers of higher rated securities. The ability of a fund to achieve
its investment goal may, to the extent of investment in low rated debt
securities, be more dependent upon such creditworthiness analysis than would
be the case if the fund were invested in higher rated securities.
Low rated debt securities may be more susceptible to real or perceived
adverse economic and competitive industry conditions than investment grade
securities. The prices of low rated debt securities have been found to be
less sensitive to interest rate changes than higher rated investments, but
more sensitive to adverse economic downturns or individual corporate
developments. A projection of an economic downturn or of a period of rising
interest rates, for example, could cause a decline in low rated debt
securities prices because the advent of a recession could lessen the ability
of a highly leveraged company to make principal and interest payments on its
debt securities. If the issuer of low rated debt securities defaults, a fund
may incur additional expenses to seek recovery.
COLLATERALIZED AUTOMOBILE RECEIVABLES (CARS) Because CARs are asset-backed
securities, they have certain risks not presented by mortgage-backed
securities. Asset-backed securities do not have the benefit of the same type
of security interests in the related collateral. In the case of automobile
receivables, there is a risk that the holders may not have either a proper or
first security interest in all of the obligations backing the receivables due
to the large number of vehicles involved in a typical issuance and technical
requirements under state laws. Therefore, recoveries on repossessed
collateral may not always be available to support payments on the securities.
COLLATERALIZED MORTGAGE OBLIGATIONS (CMOS) Because CMOs and other
mortgage-backed securities differ from conventional bonds in that the
principal is paid back over the life of the certificate rather than at
maturity. As a result, the fund will receive monthly scheduled payments of
principal and interest on its investment in these securities, and may receive
unscheduled principal payments representing prepayments on the underlying
mortgages. When the fund reinvests the payments and any unscheduled
prepayments of principal it receives, it may receive a rate of interest which
is lower than the rate on the existing security. For this reason,
mortgage-backed securities may be less effective than other types of U.S.
government securities as a means of "locking in" long-term interest rates.
The market value of mortgage-backed securities, like other U.S. government
securities in the fund's portfolio, will generally vary inversely with
changes in market interest rates, declining when interest rates rise and
rising when interest rates decline. However, mortgage-backed securities,
while having comparable risk of decline in value during periods of rising
rates, may have less potential for capital appreciation than other
investments of comparable maturities due to the likelihood of increased
prepayments of mortgages as interest rates decline. To the extent these
securities are purchased at a premium, mortgage foreclosures and unscheduled
principal prepayments may result in some loss of the fund's principal
investment to the extent of the premium paid.
OPTIONS AND OPTIONS ON FUTURES Purchasing call and put options involves the
risk that the price of the underlying securities or interest rate futures
contracts will not move in the anticipated direction during the option
periods, and that the fund may lose all or some portion of the amount of the
premiums it has paid (plus transaction costs). Options on interest rate
futures contracts involve a somewhat greater risk because a liquid market for
these options may not exist to permit the fund to establish or close out its
positions. Although the fund generally will purchase only options for which
there appears to be an active market, there is no assurance that a liquid
market on any exchange will exist for any particular option or at any
particular time.
The principal risk with respect to writing covered call and put options is
the fund's possible inability to effect closing transactions at favorable
prices. By writing the option, the fund agrees to buy or sell the security at
a specified price during a specified period, and, until the option lapses
(i.e., the specified period expires or the option is exercised) or is
canceled by a closing transaction, the fund cannot sell the covering security
to recognize a profit (or limit a loss). In addition, if the price of the
underlying security does not move in the anticipated direction, the fund will
have to sell or buy the covering security at a price that is below market (in
the case of a security sold upon the exercise of a written call option) or
buy the covering security at a price that is above market (in the case of a
security purchased upon the exercise of a written put option) unless the fund
can close out its optioned position prior to the option exercise date.
Moreover, until an option lapses or is canceled by a closing transaction, the
maximum sales price the fund may realize on a security subject to an option
is limited to the option price. If the fund is unable to effect a closing
sale transaction with respect to options it has purchased, it would have to
exercise the options it has purchased, it would have to exercise the options
in order to realize any profit and may incur transaction costs upon the
purchase or sale of underlying securities. The fund continues, however, to
bear the risk of a decline in the price of a security subject to an option
during the option period, although any potential loss during that period
would be reduced by the amount of the option premium received. The fund
expects to purchase and write only exchange traded options until such time as
the manager determines that the over-the-counter market in options is
sufficiently developed.
OFFICERS AND TRUSTEES
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The trust has a board of trustees. The board is responsible for the overall
management of the fund, including general supervision and review of the
fund's investment activities. The board, in turn, elects the officers of the
trust who are responsible for administering the fund's day-to-day operations.
The board also monitors the fund to ensure no material conflicts exist among
share classes. While none is expected, the board will act appropriately to
resolve any material conflict that may arise.
The affiliations of the officers and board members and their principal
occupations for the past five years are shown below.
POSITION(S)
HELD WITH PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION(S)
NAME, AGE AND ADDRESS THE TRUST DURING THE PAST FIVE YEARS
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frank T. Crohn (74)
P.O. Box 810516
Boca Raton, FL 33481
Trustee
Chairman, Eastport Lobster & Fish Company; Director, Unity Mutual Life
Insurance Company; trustee of two of the investment companies in the Franklin
Templeton Group of Funds; and FORMERLY, Chairman, Financial Benefit Life
Insurance Company and Director, AmVestors Financial Corporation.
*William J. Lippman (73)
One Parker Plaza, 16th Floor
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
President, Chief Executive Officer and Trustee
Senior Vice President, Franklin Resources, Inc. and Franklin Management,
Inc.; President and Director, Franklin Advisory Services, Inc.; and officer
and/or director or trustee, as the case may be, of six of the investment
companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Charles Rubens II (68)
18 Park Road
Scarsdale, NY 10583
Trustee
Private investor; and trustee of three of the investment companies in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Leonard Rubin (73)
2 Executive Drive
Suite 560
Fort Lee, NJ 07024
Trustee
Partner in LDR Equities, LLC (manages various personal investments); Vice
President, Trimtex Co., Inc. (manufactures and markets specialty fabrics);
trustee or director, as the case may be, of three of the investment companies
in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds; and FORMERLY, Chairman of the
Board, Carolace Embroidery Co., Inc. and President, F.N.C. Textiles, Inc.
Harmon E. Burns (53)
777 Mariners Island Blvd.
San Mateo, CA 94404
Vice President
Executive Vice President and Director, Franklin Resources, Inc., Franklin
Templeton Distributors, Inc. and Franklin Templeton Services, Inc.; Executive
Vice President, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Director, Franklin/Templeton
Investor Services, Inc.; and officer and/or director or trustee, as the case
may be, of most of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of
53 of the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Martin L. Flanagan (38)
777 Mariners Island Blvd.
San Mateo, CA 94404
Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Franklin Resources, Inc.;
Executive Vice President and Director, Templeton Worldwide, Inc.; Executive
Vice President, Chief Operating Officer and Director, Templeton Investment
Counsel, Inc.; Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, Franklin
Advisers, Inc.; Chief Financial Officer, Franklin Advisory Services, Inc. and
Franklin Investment Advisory Services, Inc.; President and Director, Franklin
Templeton Services, Inc.; Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer,
Franklin/Templeton Investor Services, Inc.; officer and/or director of some
of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc.; and officer and/or
director or trustee, as the case may be, of 53 of the investment companies in
the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Deborah R. Gatzek (50)
777 Mariners Island Blvd.
San Mateo, CA 94404
Vice President and Secretary
Senior Vice President and General Counsel, Franklin Resources, Inc.; Senior
Vice President, Franklin Templeton Services, Inc. and Franklin Templeton
Distributors, Inc.; Executive Vice President, Franklin Advisers, Inc.; Vice
President, Franklin Advisory Services, Inc.; Vice President, Chief Legal
Officer and Chief Operating Officer, Franklin Investment Advisory Services,
Inc.; and officer of 53 of the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton
Group of Funds.
Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. (58)
777 Mariners Island Blvd.
San Mateo, CA 94404
Vice President
Executive Vice President and Director, Franklin Resources, Inc. and Franklin
Templeton Distributors, Inc.; President and Director, Franklin Advisers,
Inc.; Senior Vice President and Director, Franklin Advisory Services, Inc.
and Franklin Investment Advisory Services, Inc.; Director, Franklin/Templeton
Investor Services, Inc.; and officer and/or director or trustee, as the case
may be, of most of the other subsidiaries of Franklin Resources, Inc. and of
53 of the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Diomedes Loo-Tam (59)
777 Mariners Island Blvd.
San Mateo, CA 94404
Treasurer and Principal Accounting Officer
Senior Vice President, Franklin Templeton Services, Inc.; and officer of 32
of the investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
Edward V. McVey (61)
777 Mariners Island Blvd.
San Mateo, CA 94404
Vice President
Senior Vice President and National Sales Manager, Franklin Templeton
Distributors, Inc.; and officer of 28 of the investment companies in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
R. Martin Wiskemann (72)
777 Mariners Island Blvd.
San Mateo, CA 94404
Vice President
Senior Vice President, Portfolio Manager and Director, Franklin Advisers,
Inc.; Senior Vice President, Franklin Management, Inc.; Vice President and
Director, ILA Financial Services, Inc.; and officer and/or director or
trustee, as the case may be, of 15 of the investment companies in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
*This board member is considered an "interested person" under federal
securities laws.
The trust pays noninterested board members $1,800 per quarter plus $900 per
meeting attended. Noninterested board members may also serve as directors or
trustees of other funds in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds and may
receive fees from these funds for their services. The following table
provides the total fees paid to noninterested board members by the trust and
by other funds in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NUMBER OF BOARDS
IN THE FRANKLIN
TOTAL FEES TEMPLETON GROUP OF
TOTAL FEES RECEIVED FROM THE FUNDS ON WHICH
RECEIVED FRANKLIN TEMPLETON EACH SERVES 3
FROM THE GROUP OF FUNDS 2
NAME TRUST 1
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Frank T. Crohn $10,800 $ 2
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Charles Rubens, II 11,700 3
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Leonard Rubin 11,700 3
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1. For the fiscal year ended September 30, 1998.
2. For the calendar year ended December 31, 1997.
3. We base the number of boards on the number of registered investment
companies in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. This number does not
include the total number of series or funds within each investment company
for which the board members are responsible. The Franklin Templeton Group of
Funds currently includes 54 registered investment companies, with
approximately 168 U.S. based funds or series.
Noninterested board members are reimbursed for expenses incurred in
connection with attending board meetings, paid pro rata by each fund in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds for which they serve as director or
trustee. No officer or board member received any other compensation,
including pension or retirement benefits, directly or indirectly from the
fund or other funds in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. Certain
officers or board members who are shareholders of Franklin Resources, Inc.
may be deemed to receive indirect remuneration by virtue of their
participation, if any, in the fees paid to its subsidiaries.
MANAGEMENT AND OTHER SERVICES
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MANAGER AND SERVICES PROVIDED The fund's manager is Franklin Advisory
Services, Inc. The manager is wholly owned by Franklin Resources, Inc.
(Resources), a publicly owned company engaged in the financial services
industry through its subsidiaries. Charles B. Johnson and Rupert H. Johnson,
Jr. are the principal shareholders of Resources.
The manager provides investment research and portfolio management services,
and selects the securities for the fund to buy, hold or sell. The manager
also selects the brokers who execute the fund's portfolio transactions. The
manager provides periodic reports to the board, which reviews and supervises
the manager's investment activities. To protect the fund, the manager and its
officers, directors and employees are covered by fidelity insurance.
The manager and its affiliates manage numerous other investment companies and
accounts. The manager may give advice and take action with respect to any of
the other funds it manages, or for its own account, that may differ from
action taken by the manager on behalf of the fund. Similarly, with respect to
the fund, the manager is not obligated to recommend, buy or sell, or to
refrain from recommending, buying or selling any security that the manager
and access persons, as defined by applicable federal securities laws, may buy
or sell for its or their own account or for the accounts of any other fund.
The manager is not obligated to refrain from investing in securities held by
the fund or other funds it manages. Of course, any transactions for the
accounts of the manager and other access persons will be made in compliance
with the fund's code of ethics.
Under the fund's code of ethics, employees of the Franklin Templeton Group
who are access persons may engage in personal securities transactions subject
to the following general restrictions and procedures: (i) the trade must
receive advance clearance from a compliance officer and must be completed by
the close of the business day following the day clearance is granted; (ii)
copies of all brokerage confirmations and statements must be sent to a
compliance officer; (iii) all brokerage accounts must be disclosed on an
annual basis; and (iv) access persons involved in preparing and making
investment decisions must, in addition to (i), (ii) and (iii) above, file
annual reports of their securities holdings each January and inform the
compliance officer (or other designated personnel) if they own a security
that is being considered for a fund or other client transaction or if they
are recommending a security in which they have an ownership interest for
purchase or sale by a fund or other client.
MANAGEMENT FEES The fund pays the manager a fee equal to a daily rate of:
o 0.50% of the value of net assets up to and including $500 million;
0.45% of the value of net assets over $500 million and not over $1
o billion; and
o 0.40% of the value of net assets in excess of $1 billion.
The fee is computed at the close of business on the last business day of each
month according to the terms of the management agreement. The management
agreement also provides for the payment of $40,000 per year by the fund to
the manager for the provision of certain accounting, bookkeeping and
recordkeeping functions for the fund. Each class of the fund's shares pays
its proportionate share of the fee.
For the last three fiscal years ended September 30, the fund paid the
following management fees:
Management Fees Paid ($)
- -------------------------------------------------
1998 251,633
1997 182,521
1996 144,011
ADMINISTRATOR AND SERVICES PROVIDED Franklin Templeton Services, Inc. (FT
Services) has an agreement with the manager to provide certain administrative
services and facilities for the fund. FT Services is wholly owned by
Resources and is an affiliate of the fund's manager and principal
underwriter.
The administrative services FT Services provides include preparing and
maintaining books, records, and tax and financial reports, and monitoring
compliance with regulatory requirements.
ADMINISTRATION FEES The manager pays FT Services a monthly fee equal to an
annual rate of:
o 0.15% of the fund's average daily net assets up to $200 million;
o 0.135% of average daily net assets over $200 million up to $700 million;
o 0.10% of average daily net assets over $700 million up to $1.2 billion;
and
o 0.075% of average daily net assets over $1.2 billion.
During the last two fiscal years ended September 30, the manager paid FT
Services the following administration fees:
Administration Fees Paid ($)
------------------------------------------------
1998 75,488
1997 54,757
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AND TRANSFER AGENT Franklin/Templeton Investor
Services, Inc. (Investor Services) is the fund's shareholder servicing agent
and acts as the fund's transfer agent and dividend-paying agent. Investor
Services is located at 777 Mariners Island Blvd., P.O. Box 7777, San Mateo,
CA 94403-7777.
For its services, Investor Services receives a fixed fee per account. The
fund may also reimburse Investor Services for certain out-of-pocket expenses,
which may include payments by Investor Services to entities, including
affiliated entities, that provide sub-shareholder services, recordkeeping
and/or transfer agency services to beneficial owners of the fund. The amount
of reimbursements for these services per benefit plan participant fund
account per year may not exceed the per account fee payable by the fund to
Investor Services in connection with maintaining shareholder accounts.
CUSTODIAN Bank of New York, Mutual Funds Division, 90 Washington Street, New
York, NY 10286, acts as custodian of the fund's securities and other assets.
AUDITOR Tait, Weller & Baker, Eight Penn Center Plaza, Suite 800,
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103, is the fund's independent auditor. The
auditor gives an opinion on the financial statements included in the trust's
Annual Report to Shareholders and reviews the trust's registration statement
filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).
PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since most purchases by the fund are principal transactions at net prices,
the fund incurs little or no brokerage costs. The fund deals directly with
the selling or buying principal or market maker without incurring charges for
the services of a broker on its behalf, unless it is determined that a better
price or execution may be obtained by using the services of a broker.
Purchases of portfolio securities from underwriters will include a commission
or concession paid by the issuer to the underwriter, and purchases from
dealers will include a spread between the bid and ask prices. The fund seeks
to obtain prompt execution of orders at the most favorable net price.
Transactions may be directed to dealers in return for research and
statistical information, as well as for special services provided by the
dealers in the execution of orders.
It is not possible to place a dollar value on the special executions or on
the research services the manager receives from dealers effecting
transactions in portfolio securities. The allocation of transactions in order
to obtain additional research services allows the manager to supplement its
own research and analysis activities and to receive the views and information
of individuals and research staffs of other securities firms. As long as it
is lawful and appropriate to do so, the manager and its affiliates may use
this research and data in their investment advisory capacities with other
clients. If the fund's officers are satisfied that the best execution is
obtained, the sale of fund shares, as well as shares of other funds in the
Franklin Templeton Group of Funds, may also be considered a factor in the
selection of broker-dealers to execute the fund's portfolio transactions.
Because Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. (Distributors) is a member of
the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc., it may sometimes
receive certain fees when the fund tenders portfolio securities pursuant to a
tender-offer solicitation. To recapture brokerage for the benefit of the
fund, any portfolio securities tendered by the fund will be tendered through
Distributors if it is legally permissible to do so. In turn, the next
management fee payable to the manager will be reduced by the amount of any
fees received by Distributors in cash, less any costs and expenses incurred
in connection with the tender.
If purchases or sales of securities of the fund and one or more other
investment companies or clients supervised by the manager are considered at
or about the same time, transactions in these securities will be allocated
among the several investment companies and clients in a manner deemed
equitable to all by the manager, taking into account the respective sizes of
the funds and the amount of securities to be purchased or sold. In some cases
this procedure could have a detrimental effect on the price or volume of the
security so far as the fund is concerned. In other cases it is possible that
the ability to participate in volume transactions may improve execution and
reduce transaction costs to the fund.
During the fiscal years ended September 30, 1998, 1997 and 1996, the fund did
not pay any brokerage commissions.
As of September 30, 1998, the fund did not own securities of its regular
broker-dealers.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DISTRIBUTIONS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME The fund receives income generally in
the form of interest on its investments. This income, less expenses incurred
in the operation of the fund, constitutes the fund's net investment income
from which dividends may be paid to you. Any distributions by the fund from
such income will be taxable to you as ordinary income, whether you take them
in cash or in additional shares.
DISTRIBUTIONS OF CAPITAL GAINS The fund may derive capital gains and losses
in connection with sales or other dispositions of its portfolio securities.
Distributions from net short-term capital gains will be taxable to you as
ordinary income. Distributions from net long-term capital gains will be
taxable to you as long-term capital gain, regardless of how long you have
held your shares in the fund. Any net capital gains realized by the fund
generally will be distributed once each year, and may be distributed more
frequently, if necessary, in order to reduce or eliminate excise or income
taxes on the fund.
EFFECT OF FOREIGN INVESTMENTS ON DISTRIBUTIONS Most foreign exchange gains
realized on the sale of debt securities are treated as ordinary income by the
fund. Similarly, foreign exchange losses realized by the fund on the sale of
debt securities are generally treated as ordinary losses by the fund. These
gains when distributed will be taxable to you as ordinary dividends, and any
losses will reduce the fund's ordinary income otherwise available for
distribution to you. This treatment could increase or reduce the fund's
ordinary income distributions to you, and may cause some or all of the fund's
previously distributed income to be classified as a return of capital.
The fund may be subject to foreign withholding taxes on income from certain
of its foreign securities. If more than 50% of the fund's total assets at the
end of the fiscal year are invested in securities of foreign corporations,
the fund may elect to pass-through to you your pro rata share of foreign
taxes paid by the fund. If this election is made, the year-end statement you
receive from the fund will show more taxable income than was actually
distributed to you. However, you will be entitled to either deduct your share
of such taxes in computing your taxable income or claim a foreign tax credit
for such taxes against your U.S. federal income tax. The fund will provide
you with the information necessary to complete your individual income tax
return if such election is made.
INFORMATION ON THE TAX CHARACTER OF DISTRIBUTIONS The fund will inform you
of the amount of your ordinary income dividends and capital gains
distributions at the time they are paid, and will advise you of their tax
status for federal income tax purposes shortly after the close of each
calendar year. If you have not held fund shares for a full year, you may
have designated and distributed to you as ordinary income or capital gain a
percentage of income that is not equal to the actual amount of such income
earned during the period of your investment in the fund.
ELECTION TO BE TAXED AS A REGULATED INVESTMENT COMPANY The fund has elected
to be treated as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the tax
code, has qualified as such for its most recent fiscal year, and intends to
so qualify during the current fiscal year. As a regulated investment company,
the fund generally pays no federal income tax on the income and gains it
distributes to you. The board reserves the right not to maintain the
qualification of the fund as a regulated investment company if it determines
such course of action to be beneficial to you. In such case, the fund will be
subject to federal, and possibly state, corporate taxes on its taxable income
and gains, and distributions to you will be taxed as ordinary dividend income
to the extent of the fund's available earnings and profits.
EXCISE TAX DISTRIBUTION REQUIREMENTS In order to avoid federal excise taxes,
the Internal Revenue Code requires the fund to distribute to you by December
31 of each year, at a minimum, the following amounts:
o 98% of its taxable ordinary income earned during the calendar year;
o 98% of its capital gain net income earned during the twelve month
period ending October 31; and
o 100% of any undistributed amounts from the prior year.
The fund intends to declare and pay these amounts in December (or in January
that are treated by you as received in December) to avoid these excise taxes,
but can give no assurances that its distributions will be sufficient to
eliminate all taxes.
REDEMPTION OF FUND SHARES Redemptions and exchanges of fund shares are
taxable transactions for federal and state income tax purposes. If you
redeem your fund shares, or exchange your shares in one fund for shares in
another Franklin Templeton fund, the IRS will require that you report a gain
or loss on your redemption or exchange. If you hold your shares as a capital
asset, the gain or loss that you realize will be capital gain or loss. Any
loss incurred on the redemption or exchange of shares held for six months or
less will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any
long-term capital gains distributed to you by the fund on those shares.
All or a portion of any loss that you realize upon the redemption of your
fund shares will be disallowed to the extent that you buy other shares in the
fund (through reinvestment of dividends or otherwise) within 30 days before
or after your share redemption. Any loss disallowed under these rules will
be added to your tax basis in the new shares you buy.
DEFERRAL OF BASIS If you redeem some or all of your shares in the fund, and
then reinvest the sales proceeds in the fund or in another Franklin Templeton
fund within 90 days of purchasing the original shares, the sales charge that
would otherwise apply to your reinvestment may be reduced or eliminated. You
will be required by the IRS to report gain or loss on the redemption of your
original shares in the fund. In so doing, all or a portion of the sales
charge that you paid for your original shares in the fund will be excluded
from your tax basis in the shares sold (for the purpose of determining gain
or loss upon the sale of such shares). The portion of the sales charge
excluded will equal the amount that the sales charge is reduced on your
reinvestment. Any portion of the sales charge excluded from your tax basis
in the shares sold will be added to the tax basis of the shares you acquire
from your reinvestment.
U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS Many states grant tax-free status to dividends
paid to you from interest earned on direct obligations of the U.S.
government, subject in some states to minimum investment requirements that
must be met by the fund. Investments in Government National Mortgage
Association or Federal National Mortgage Association securities, bankers'
acceptances, commercial paper and repurchase agreements collateralized by
U.S. government securities do not generally qualify for tax-free treatment.
The rules on exclusion of this income are different for corporations.
DIVIDENDS-RECEIVED DEDUCTION FOR CORPORATIONS Because the fund's income is
derived primarily from interest rather than dividends, no portion of its
distributions will generally be eligible for the intercorporate
dividends-received deduction. None of the dividends paid by the fund for the
most recent calendar year qualified for such deduction, and it is anticipated
that none of the current year's dividends will so qualify.
INVESTMENT IN COMPLEX SECURITIES The fund may invest in complex securities.
Such investments may be subject to numerous special and complex tax rules.
These rules could affect whether gains and losses recognized by the fund are
treated as ordinary income or capital gain, accelerate the recognition of
income to the fund or defer the fund's ability to recognize losses, and, in
limited cases, subject the fund to U.S. federal income tax on income from
certain of its foreign securities. In turn, these rules may affect the
amount, timing or character of the income distributed to you by the fund.
ORGANIZATION, VOTING RIGHTS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The fund is a diversified series of Franklin Managed Trust, an open-end
management investment company, commonly called a mutual fund. The trust was
organized as a Massachusetts business trust on July 15, 1986, and is
registered with the SEC.
As a shareholder of a Massachusetts business trust, you could, under certain
circumstances, be held personally liable as a partner for its obligations.
The Agreement and Declaration of Trust, however, contains an express
disclaimer of shareholder liability for acts or obligations of the fund. The
Declaration of Trust also provides for indemnification and reimbursement of
expenses out of the fund's assets if you are held personally liable for
obligations of the fund. The Declaration of Trust provides that the fund
shall, upon request, assume the defense of any claim made against you for any
act or obligation of the fund and satisfy any judgment thereon. All such
rights are limited to the assets of the fund. The Declaration of Trust
further provides that the fund may maintain appropriate insurance (for
example, fidelity bonding and errors and omissions insurance) for the
protection of the fund, its shareholders, trustees, officers, employees and
agents to cover possible tort and other liabilities. Furthermore, the
activities of the fund as an investment company, as distinguished from an
operating company, would not likely give rise to liabilities in excess of the
fund's total assets. Thus, the risk that you would incur financial loss on
account of shareholder liability is limited to the unlikely circumstance in
which both inadequate insurance exists and the fund itself is unable to meet
its obligations.
The fund currently offers two classes of shares, Class A and Advisor Class.
Before January 1, 1999, Class A shares were designated Class I. The fund may
offer additional classes of shares in the future. The full title of each
class is:
o Franklin Investment Grade Income Fund - Class A
o Franklin Investment Grade Income Fund - Advisor Class
Shares of each class represent proportionate interests in the fund's assets.
On matters that affect the fund as a whole, each class has the same voting
and other rights and preferences as any other class. On matters that affect
only one class, only shareholders of that class may vote. Each class votes
separately on matters affecting only that class, or expressly required to be
voted on separately by state or federal law. Shares of each class of a series
have the same voting and other rights and preferences as the other classes
and series of the trust for matters that affect the trust as a whole.
Additional series may be offered in the future.
The trust has noncumulative voting rights. For board member elections, this
gives holders of more than 50% of the shares voting the ability to elect all
of the members of the board. If this happens, holders of the remaining shares
voting will not be able to elect anyone to the board.
The trust does not intend to hold annual shareholder meetings. The trust or a
series of the trust may hold special meetings, however, for matters requiring
shareholder approval. A meeting may be called by the board to consider the
removal of a board member if requested in writing by shareholders holding at
least 10% of the outstanding shares. In certain circumstances, we are
required to help you communicate with other shareholders about the removal of
a board member. A special meeting may also be called by the board in its
discretion.
As of December 7, 1998, the principal shareholders of the fund, beneficial or of
record, were:
Name and Address Share Class Percentage (%)
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Franklin Templeton Fund Allocator Advisor Class 95.60%
Conservative Target Fund
1810 Gateway, 3rd Floor
San Mateo, CA 94404-2470
From time to time, the number of fund shares held in the "street name" accounts
of various securities dealers for the benefit of their clients or in centralized
securities depositories may exceed 5% of the total shares outstanding.
As of December 7, 1998, the officers and board members, as a group, owned of
record and beneficially 1.27% of the fund's Advisor Class shares and less than
1% of the outstanding shares of Class A. The board members may own shares in
other funds in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds.
BUYING AND SELLING SHARES
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The fund continuously offers its shares through securities dealers who have
an agreement with Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. (Distributors). A
securities dealer includes any financial institution that, either directly or
through affiliates, has an agreement with Distributors to handle customer
orders and accounts with the fund. This reference is for convenience only and
does not indicate a legal conclusion of capacity. Banks and financial
institutions that sell shares of the fund may be required by state law to
register as securities dealers.
For investors outside the U.S., the offering of fund shares may be limited in
many jurisdictions. An investor who wishes to buy shares of the fund should
determine, or have a broker-dealer determine, the applicable laws and
regulations of the relevant jurisdiction. Investors are responsible for
compliance with tax, currency exchange or other regulations applicable to
redemption and purchase transactions in any jurisdiction to which they may be
subject. Investors should consult appropriate tax and legal advisors to
obtain information on the rules applicable to these transactions.
All checks, drafts, wires and other payment mediums used to buy or sell
shares of the fund must be denominated in U.S. dollars. We may, in our sole
discretion, either (a) reject any order to buy or sell shares denominated in
any other currency or (b) honor the transaction or make adjustments to your
account for the transaction as of a date and with a foreign currency exchange
factor determined by the drawee bank.
When you buy shares, if you submit a check or a draft that is returned unpaid
to the fund we may impose a $10 charge against your account for each returned
item.
If you buy shares through the reinvestment of dividends, the shares will be
purchased at the net asset value determined on the business day following the
dividend record date (sometimes known as the "ex-dividend date"). The
processing date for the reinvestment of dividends may vary and does not
affect the amount or value of the shares acquired.
GROUP PURCHASES As described in the prospectus, members of a qualified group
may add the group's investments together for minimum investment purposes.
A qualified group is one that:
o Was formed at least six months ago,
o Has a purpose other than buying fund shares at a discount,
o Has more than 10 members,
o Can arrange for meetings between our representatives and group members,
o Agrees to include Franklin Templeton Fund sales and other materials in
publications and mailings to its members at reduced or no cost to
Distributors,
o Agrees to arrange for payroll deduction or other bulk transmission of
investments to the fund, and
o Meets other uniform criteria that allow Distributors to achieve cost
savings in distributing shares.
DEALER COMPENSATION Distributors and/or its affiliates provide financial
support to various securities dealers that sell shares of the Franklin
Templeton Group of Funds. This support is based primarily on the amount of
sales of fund shares. The amount of support may be affected by: total sales;
net sales; levels of redemptions; the proportion of a securities dealer's
sales and marketing efforts in the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds; a
securities dealer's support of, and participation in, Distributors' marketing
programs; a securities dealer's compensation programs for its registered
representatives; and the extent of a securities dealer's marketing programs
relating to the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. Financial support to
securities dealers may be made by payments from Distributors' resources, from
Distributors' retention of underwriting concessions and, in the case of funds
that have Rule 12b-1 plans, from payments to Distributors under such plans.
In addition, certain securities dealers may receive brokerage commissions
generated by fund portfolio transactions in accordance with the rules of the
National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
Distributors routinely sponsors due diligence meetings for registered
representatives during which they receive updates on various Franklin
Templeton Funds and are afforded the opportunity to speak with portfolio
managers. Invitation to these meetings is not conditioned on selling a
specific number of shares. Those who have shown an interest in the Franklin
Templeton Funds, however, are more likely to be considered. To the extent
permitted by their firm's policies and procedures, registered
representatives' expenses in attending these meetings may be covered by
Distributors.
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE If you request the exchange of the total value of your
account, declared but unpaid income dividends and capital gain distributions
will be exchanged into the new fund and invested at net asset value. Backup
withholding and information reporting may apply.
If a substantial number of shareholders should, within a short period, sell
their fund shares under the exchange privilege, the fund might have to sell
portfolio securities it might otherwise hold and incur the additional costs
related to such transactions. On the other hand, increased use of the
exchange privilege may result in periodic large inflows of money. If this
occurs, it is the fund's general policy to initially invest this money in
short-term, interest-bearing money market instruments, unless it is believed
that attractive investment opportunities consistent with the fund's
investment goal exist immediately. This money will then be withdrawn from the
short-term, interest-bearing money market instruments and invested in
portfolio securities in as orderly a manner as is possible when attractive
investment opportunities arise.
The proceeds from the sale of shares of an investment company are generally
not available until the seventh day following the sale. The funds you are
seeking to exchange into may delay issuing shares pursuant to an exchange
until that seventh day. The sale of fund shares to complete an exchange will
be effected at net asset value at the close of business on the day the
request for exchange is received in proper form.
SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN Our systematic withdrawal plan allows you to sell
your shares and receive regular payments from your account on a monthly,
quarterly, semiannual or annual basis. The value of your account must be at
least $5,000 and the minimum payment amount for each withdrawal must be at
least $50. For retirement plans subject to mandatory distribution
requirements, the $50 minimum will not apply. There are no service charges
for establishing or maintaining a systematic withdrawal plan. Once your plan
is established, any distributions paid by the fund will be automatically
reinvested in your account.
Payments under the plan will be made from the redemption of an equivalent
amount of shares in your account, generally on the 25th day of the month in
which a payment is scheduled. If the 25th falls on a weekend or holiday, we
will process the redemption on the next business day. When you sell your
shares under a systematic withdrawal plan, it is a taxable transaction.
Redeeming shares through a systematic withdrawal plan may reduce or exhaust
the shares in your account if payments exceed distributions received from the
fund. This is especially likely to occur if there is a market decline. If a
withdrawal amount exceeds the value of your account, your account will be
closed and the remaining balance in your account will be sent to you. Because
the amount withdrawn under the plan may be more than your actual yield or
income, part of the payment may be a return of your investment.
You may discontinue a systematic withdrawal plan, change the amount and
schedule of withdrawal payments, or suspend one payment by notifying us by
mail or by phone at least seven business days before the end of the month
preceding a scheduled payment. The fund may discontinue a systematic
withdrawal plan by notifying you in writing and will automatically
discontinue a systematic withdrawal plan if all shares in your account are
withdrawn or if the fund receives notification of the shareholder's death or
incapacity.
REDEMPTIONS IN KIND The fund has committed itself to pay in cash (by check)
all requests for redemption by any shareholder of record, limited in amount,
however, during any 90-day period to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the
value of the fund's net assets at the beginning of the 90-day period. This
commitment is irrevocable without the prior approval of the Securities and
Exchange Commission (SEC). In the case of redemption requests [in excess of
these amounts], the board reserves the right to make payments in whole or in
part in securities or other assets of the fund, in case of an emergency, or
if the payment of such a redemption in cash would be detrimental to the
existing shareholders of the fund. In these circumstances, the securities
distributed would be valued at the price used to compute the fund's net
assets and you may incur brokerage fees in converting the securities to cash.
The fund does not intend to redeem illiquid securities in kind. If this
happens, however, you may not be able to recover your investment in a timely
manner.
SHARE CERTIFICATES We will credit your shares to your fund account. We do
not issue share certificates unless you specifically request them. This
eliminates the costly problem of replacing lost, stolen or destroyed
certificates. If a certificate is lost, stolen or destroyed, you may have to
pay an insurance premium of up to 2% of the value of the certificate to
replace it.
Any outstanding share certificates must be returned to the fund if you want
to sell or exchange those shares or if you would like to start a systematic
withdrawal plan. The certificates should be properly endorsed. You can do
this either by signing the back of the certificate or by completing a share
assignment form. For your protection, you may prefer to complete a share
assignment form and to send the certificate and assignment form in separate
envelopes.
GENERAL INFORMATION If dividend checks are returned to the fund marked
"unable to forward" by the postal service, we will consider this a request by
you to change your dividend option to reinvest all distributions. The
proceeds will be reinvested in additional shares at net asset value until we
receive new instructions.
Distribution or redemption checks sent to you do not earn interest or any
other income during the time the checks remain uncashed. Neither the fund nor
its affiliates will be liable for any loss caused by your failure to cash
such checks. The fund is not responsible for tracking down uncashed checks,
unless a check is returned as undeliverable.
In most cases, if mail is returned as undeliverable we are required to take
certain steps to try to find you free of charge. If these attempts are
unsuccessful, however, we may deduct the costs of any additional efforts to
find you from your account. These costs may include a percentage of the
account when a search company charges a percentage fee in exchange for its
location services.
The wiring of redemption proceeds is a special service that we make available
whenever possible. By offering this service to you, the fund is not bound to
meet any redemption request in less than the seven day period prescribed by
law. Neither the fund nor its agents shall be liable to you or any other
person if, for any reason, a redemption request by wire is not processed as
described in the prospectus.
Franklin Templeton Investor Services, Inc. (Investor Services) may pay
certain financial institutions that maintain omnibus accounts with the fund
on behalf of numerous beneficial owners for recordkeeping operations
performed with respect to such owners. For each beneficial owner in the
omnibus account, the fund may reimburse Investor Services an amount not to
exceed the per account fee that the fund normally pays Investor Services.
These financial institutions may also charge a fee for their services
directly to their clients.
If you buy or sell shares through your securities dealer, we use the net
asset value next calculated after your securities dealer receives your
request, which is promptly transmitted to the fund. If you sell shares
through your securities dealer, it is your dealer's responsibility to
transmit the order to the fund in a timely fashion. Your redemption proceeds
will not earn interest between the time we receive the order from your dealer
and the time we receive any required documents. Any loss to you resulting
from your dealer's failure to transmit your redemption order to the fund in a
timely fashion must be settled between you and your securities dealer.
Certain shareholder servicing agents may be authorized to accept your
transaction request.
For institutional accounts, there may be additional methods of buying or
selling fund shares than those described in this SAI or in the prospectus.
In the event of disputes involving multiple claims of ownership or authority
to control your account, the fund has the right (but has no obligation) to:
(a) freeze the account and require the written agreement of all persons
deemed by the fund to have a potential property interest in the account,
before executing instructions regarding the account; (b) interplead disputed
funds or accounts with a court of competent jurisdiction; or (c) surrender
ownership of all or a portion of the account to the IRS in response to a
notice of levy.
PRICING SHARES
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When you buy and sell shares, you pay the net asset value (NAV) per share.
The value of a mutual fund is determined by deducting the fund's liabilities
from the total assets of the portfolio. The net asset value per share is
determined by dividing the net asset value of the fund by the number of
shares outstanding.
The fund calculates the NAV per share of each class each business day at the
close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (normally 1:00 p.m. pacific
time). The fund does not calculate the NAV on days the New York Stock
Exchange (NYSE) is closed for trading, which include New Year's Day, Martin
Luther King Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence
Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
When determining its NAV, the fund values cash and receivables at their
realizable amounts, and records interest as accrued and dividends on the
ex-dividend date. If market quotations are readily available for portfolio
securities listed on a securities exchange or on the NASDAQ National Market
System, the fund values those securities at the last quoted sale price of the
day or, if there is no reported sale, within the range of the most recent
quoted bid and ask prices. The fund values over-the-counter portfolio
securities within the range of the most recent quoted bid and ask prices. If
portfolio securities trade both in the over-the-counter market and on a stock
exchange, the fund values them according to the broadest and most
representative market as determined by the manager.
The fund values portfolio securities underlying actively traded call options
at their market price as determined above. The current market value of any
option the fund holds is its last sale price on the relevant exchange before
the fund values its assets. If there are no sales that day or if the last
sale price is outside the bid and ask prices, the fund values options within
the range of the current closing bid and ask prices if the fund believes the
valuation fairly reflects the contract's market value.
The fund determines the value of a foreign security as of the close of
trading on the foreign exchange on which the security is traded or as of the
close of trading on the NYSE, if that is earlier. The value is then converted
into its U.S. dollar equivalent at the foreign exchange rate in effect at
noon, New York time, on the day the value of the foreign security is
determined. If no sale is reported at that time, the foreign security is
valued within the range of the most recent quoted bid and ask prices.
Occasionally events that affect the values of foreign securities and foreign
exchange rates may occur between the times at which they are determined and
the close of the exchange and will, therefore, not be reflected in the
computation of the NAV. If events materially affecting the values of these
foreign securities occur during this period, the securities will be valued in
accordance with procedures established by the board.
Generally, trading in corporate bonds, U.S. government securities and money
market instruments is substantially completed each day at various times
before the close of the NYSE. The value of these securities used in computing
the NAV is determined as of such times. Occasionally, events affecting the
values of these securities may occur between the times at which they are
determined and the close of the NYSE that will not be reflected in the
computation of the NAV. If events materially affecting the values of these
securities occur during this period, the securities will be valued at their
fair value as determined in good faith by the board.
Other securities for which market quotations are readily available are valued
at the current market price, which may be obtained from a pricing service,
based on a variety of factors including recent trades, institutional size
trading in similar types of securities (considering yield, risk and maturity)
and/or developments related to specific issues. Securities and other assets
for which market prices are not readily available are valued at fair value as
determined following procedures approved by the board. With the approval of
the board, the fund may use a pricing service, bank or securities dealer to
perform any of the above described functions.
THE UNDERWRITER
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Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. (Distributors) acts as the principal
underwriter in the continuous public offering of the fund's shares.
Distributors is located at 777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA 94404.
Distributors pays the expenses of the distribution of fund shares, including
advertising expenses and the costs of printing sales material and
prospectuses used to offer shares to the public. The fund pays the expenses
of preparing and printing amendments to its registration statements and
prospectuses (other than those necessitated by the activities of
Distributors) and of sending prospectuses to existing shareholders.
Distributors does not receive compensation from the fund for acting as
underwriter of the fund's Advisor Class shares.
PERFORMANCE
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Performance quotations are subject to SEC rules. These rules require the use
of standardized performance quotations or, alternatively, that every
non-standardized performance quotation furnished by the fund be accompanied
by certain standardized performance information computed as required by the
SEC. Average annual total return and current yield quotations used by the
fund are based on the standardized methods of computing performance mandated
by the SEC.
For periods before January 2, 1997, Advisor Class standardized performance
quotations are calculated by substituting Class A performance for the
relevant time period, excluding the effect of Class A's maximum initial sales
charge, and including the effect of the distribution and service (Rule 12b-1)
fees applicable to the fund's Class A shares. For periods after January 2,
1997, Advisor Class standardized performance quotations are calculated as
described below.
An explanation of these and other methods used by the fund to compute or
express performance follows. Regardless of the method used, past performance
does not guarantee future results, and is an indication of the return to
shareholders only for the limited historical period used.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN Average annual total return is determined by
finding the average annual rates of return over the periods indicated below
that would equate an initial hypothetical $1,000 investment to its ending
redeemable value. The calculation assumes income dividends and capital gain
distributions are reinvested at net asset value. The quotation assumes the
account was completely redeemed at the end of each period and the deduction
of all applicable charges and fees. If a change is made to the sales charge
structure, historical performance information will be restated to reflect the
maximum initial sales charge currently in effect.
The average annual total returns for the indicated periods ended September
30, 1998, were:
1 Year 5 Years 10 Years
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Advisor Class 6.91% 4.77% 7.13%
These figures were calculated according to the SEC formula:
n
P(1+T) = ERV
where:
P = a hypothetical initial payment of $1,000
T = average annual total return
n = number of years
ERV = ending redeemable value of a hypothetical $1,000
payment made at the beginning of each period at the end
of each period
CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN Like average annual total return, cumulative total
return assumes income dividends and capital gain distributions are reinvested
at net asset value. Cumulative total return, however, is based on the actual
return for a specified period rather than on the average return over the
periods indicated above. The cumulative total returns for the indicated
periods ended September 30, 1998, were:
1 Year 5 Years 10 Years
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Advisor Class 6.91% 26.23% 99.14%
CURRENT YIELD Current yield shows the income per share earned by the fund.
It is calculated by dividing the net investment income per share earned
during a 30-day base period by the net asset value per share on the last day
of the period and annualizing the result. Expenses accrued for the period
include any fees charged to all shareholders of the class during the base
period. The yield for the 30-day period ended September 30, 1998, was:
Yield
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Advisor Class 4.38%
These figures were obtained using the following SEC formula:
6
Yield = 2 [(A-B + 1) - 1]
cd
where:
a = interest earned during the period
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 net asset value per share on the last day of the period
CURRENT DISTRIBUTION RATE Current yield, which is calculated according to a
formula prescribed by the SEC, is not indicative of the amounts which were or
will be paid to shareholders. Amounts paid to shareholders are reflected in
the quoted current distribution rate. The current distribution rate is
usually computed by annualizing the dividends paid per share by a class
during a certain period and dividing that amount by the current net asset
value. The current distribution rate differs from the current yield
computation because it may include distributions to shareholders from sources
other than dividends and interest, such as premium income from option writing
and short-term capital gains, and is calculated over a different period of
time. The current distribution rate for the 30-day period ended September 30,
1998, was:
Distribution Rate
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Advisor Class 4.54%
VOLATILITY Occasionally statistics may be used to show the fund's volatility
or risk. Measures of volatility or risk are generally used to compare the
fund's net asset value or performance to a market index. One measure of
volatility is beta. Beta is the volatility of a fund relative to the total
market, as represented by an index considered representative of the types of
securities in which the fund invests. A beta of more than 1.00 indicates
volatility greater than the market and a beta of less than 1.00 indicates
volatility less than the market. Another measure of volatility or risk is
standard deviation. Standard deviation is used to measure variability of net
asset value or total return around an average over a specified period of
time. The idea is that greater volatility means greater risk undertaken in
achieving performance.
OTHER PERFORMANCE QUOTATIONS Sales literature referring to the use of the
fund as a potential investment for IRAs, business retirement plans, and other
tax-advantaged retirement plans may quote a total return based upon
compounding of dividends on which it is presumed no federal income tax
applies.
The fund may include in its advertising or sales material information
relating to investment goals and performance results of funds belonging to
the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds. Franklin Resources, Inc. is the parent
company of the advisors and underwriter of the Franklin Templeton Group of
Funds.
COMPARISONS To help you better evaluate how an investment in the fund may
satisfy your investment goal, advertisements and other materials about the
fund may discuss certain measures of fund performance as reported by various
financial publications. Materials may also compare performance (as calculated
above) to performance as reported by other investments, indices, and
averages. These comparisons may include, but are not limited to, the
following examples:
o CDA Mutual Fund Report, published by CDA Investment Technologies, Inc. -
analyzes price, current yield, risk, total return, and average rate of
return (average annual compounded growth rate) over specified time periods
for the mutual fund industry.
o Mutual Fund Source Book, published by Morningstar, Inc. - analyzes
price, yield, risk, and total return for mutual funds.
o Financial publications: The WALL STREET JOURNAL, and BUSINESS WEEK,
FINANCIAL WORLD, FORBES, FORTUNE, and MONEY magazines - provide
performance statistics over specified time periods.
o Historical data supplied by the research departments of CS First
Boston Corporation, the J. P. Morgan companies, Salomon Brothers,
Merrill Lynch, Lehman Brothers and Bloomberg L.P.
o Morningstar - information published by Morningstar, Inc., including
Morningstar proprietary mutual fund ratings. The ratings reflect
Morningstar's assessment of the historical risk-adjusted performance of a
fund over specified time periods relative to other funds within its
category.
o Lipper - Mutual Fund Performance Analysis and Lipper - Fixed Income
Fund Performance Analysis - measure total return and average current
yield for the mutual fund industry and rank individual mutual fund
performance over specified time periods, assuming reinvestment of all
distributions, exclusive of any applicable sales charges.
From time to time, advertisements or information for the fund may include a
discussion of certain attributes or benefits to be derived from an investment
in the fund. The advertisements or information may include symbols,
headlines, or other material that highlights or summarizes the information
discussed in more detail in the communication.
Advertisements or information may also compare the fund's performance to the
return on certificates of deposit (CDs) or other investments. You should be
aware, however, that an investment in the fund involves the risk of
fluctuation of principal value, a risk generally not present in an investment
in a CD issued by a bank. For example, as the general level of interest rates
rise, the value of the fund's fixed-income investments, as well as the value
of its shares that are based upon the value of such portfolio investments,
can be expected to decrease. Conversely, when interest rates decrease, the
value of the fund's shares can be expected to increase. CDs are frequently
insured by an agency of the U.S. government. An investment in the fund is not
insured by any federal, state or private entity.
In assessing comparisons of performance, you should keep in mind that the
composition of the investments in the reported indices and averages is not
identical to the fund's portfolio, the indices and averages are generally
unmanaged, and the items included in the calculations of the averages may not
be identical to the formula used by the fund to calculate its figures. In
addition, there can be no assurance that the fund will continue its
performance as compared to these other averages.
MISCELLANEOUS INFORMATION
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The fund may help you achieve various investment goals such as accumulating
money for retirement, saving for a down payment on a home, college costs and
other long-term goals. The Franklin College Costs Planner may help you in
determining how much money must be invested on a monthly basis in order to
have a projected amount available in the future to fund a child's college
education. (Projected college cost estimates are based upon current costs
published by the College Board.) The Franklin Retirement Planning Guide leads
you through the steps to start a retirement savings program. Of course, an
investment in the fund cannot guarantee that these goals will be met.
The fund is a member of the Franklin Templeton Group of Funds, one of the
largest mutual fund organizations in the U.S., and may be considered in a
program for diversification of assets. Founded in 1947, Franklin is one of
the oldest mutual fund organizations and now services more than 3 million
shareholder accounts. In 1992, Franklin, a leader in managing fixed-income
mutual funds and an innovator in creating domestic equity funds, joined
forces with Templeton, a pioneer in international investing. The Mutual
Series team, known for its value-driven approach to domestic equity
investing, became part of the organization four years later. Together, the
Franklin Templeton Group has over $208 billion in assets under management for
more than 6 million U.S. based mutual fund shareholder and other accounts.
The Franklin Templeton Group of Funds offers 117 U.S. based open-end
investment companies to the public. The fund may identify itself by its
NASDAQ symbol or CUSIP number.
Currently, there are more mutual funds than there are stocks listed on the
New York Stock Exchange. While many of them have similar investment goals, no
two are exactly alike. Shares of the fund are generally sold through
securities dealers, whose investment representatives are experienced
professionals who can offer advice on the type of investments suitable to
your unique goals and needs, as well as the risks associated with such
investments.
The Information Services & Technology division of Franklin Resources, Inc.
(Resources) established a Year 2000 Project Team in 1996. This team has
already begun making necessary software changes to help the computer systems
that service the fund and its shareholders to be Year 2000 compliant. After
completing these modifications, comprehensive tests are conducted in one of
Resources' U.S. test labs to verify their effectiveness. Resources continues
to seek reasonable assurances from all major hardware, software or
data-services suppliers that they will be Year 2000 compliant on a timely
basis. Resources is also beginning to develop a contingency plan, including
identification of those mission critical systems for which it is practical to
develop a contingency plan. However, in an operation as complex and
geographically distributed as Resources' business, the alternatives to use of
normal systems, especially mission critical systems, or supplies of
electricity or long distance voice and data lines are limited.
DESCRIPTION OF BOND RATINGS
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CORPORATE BOND RATINGS
MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. (MOODY'S)
Aaa - Bonds 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-edged." Interest payments are protected by a large or 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.
Aa - Bonds rated Aa are judged to be 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, fluctuation of protective elements may be of greater
amplitude, or there may be other elements present that make the long-term
risks appear somewhat larger.
A - Bonds rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and are
considered upper medium-grade obligations. Factors giving security to
principal and interest are considered adequate, but elements may be present
that suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
Baa - Bonds rated Baa are considered medium-grade obligations. They are
neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments and principal
security appear adequate for the present but certain protective elements may
be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great length of
time. These bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and, in fact,
have speculative characteristics as well.
Ba - Bonds rated Ba are judged to have predominantly speculative elements and
their future cannot be considered well assured. Often the protection of
interest and principal payments is very moderate and, thereby, not well
safeguarded during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of
position characterizes bonds in this class.
B - Bonds 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.
Caa - Bonds rated Caa are of poor standing. These issues may be in default or
there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal or interest.
Ca - Bonds rated Ca represent obligations that are speculative to a high
degree. These issues are often in default or have other marked shortcomings.
C - Bonds rated C are the lowest rated class of bonds and can be regarded as
having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining any real investment
standing.
Note: Moody's applies numerical modifiers 1, 2 and 3 in each generic rating
classification from Aa through B in its corporate bond ratings. The modifier
1 indicates that the security ranks in the higher end of its generic rating
category; modifier 2 indicates a mid-range ranking; and modifier 3 indicates
that the issue ranks in the lower end of its generic rating category.
STANDARD & POOR'S CORPORATION (S&P)
AAA - This is the highest rating assigned by S&P to a debt obligation and
indicates an extremely strong capacity to pay principal and interest.
AA - Bonds rated AA also qualify as high-quality debt obligations. Capacity
to pay principal and interest is very strong and, in the majority of
instances, differ from AAA issues only in a small degree.
A - Bonds rated A have a strong capacity to pay principal and interest,
although they are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes
in circumstances and economic conditions.
BBB - Bonds rated BBB are regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay
principal and interest. Whereas they normally exhibit protection parameters,
adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead
to a weakened capacity to pay principal and interest for bonds in this
category than for bonds in the A category.
BB, B, CCC, CC - Bonds rated BB, B, CCC and CC are regarded, on balance, as
predominantly speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity to pay
interest and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the obligations.
BB indicates the lowest degree of speculation and CC the highest degree of
speculation. While these bonds will likely have some quality and protective
characteristics, they are outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk
exposures to adverse conditions.
C - Bonds rated C are typically subordinated debt to senior debt that is
assigned an actual or implied CCC- rating. The C rating may also reflect the
filing of a bankruptcy petition under circumstances where debt service
payments are continuing. The C1 rating is reserved for income bonds on which
no interest is being paid.
Plus (+) or minus (-): The ratings from "AA" to "CCC" may be modified by the
addition of a plus or minus sign to show relative standing within the major
rating categories.
FRANKLIN MANAGED TRUST
FILE NOS. 33-9994 &
811-4894
FORM N-1A
PART C
OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 23. EXHIBITS
(A) AGREEMENT AND DECLARATION OF TRUST
(i) Amended and Restated Agreement and Declaration of Trust
dated October 30, 1986
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 12 to Registration
Statement of Registrant
on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: April 24, 1995
(ii) Certificate of Amendment of Agreement and Declaration of
Trust dated June 28, 1988
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 12 to Registration
Statement of Registrant
on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: April 24, 1995
(iii) Certificate of Amendment of Agreement and Declaration of
Trust dated March 13, 1995
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 12 to Registration
Statement of Registrant
on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: April 24, 1995
(B) BY-LAWS
(i) By-Laws
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 12 to Registration
Statement of Registrant
on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: April 24, 1995
(C) INSTRUMENTS DEFINING RIGHTS OF SECURITY HOLDERS
Not Applicable
(D) INVESTMENT ADVISORY CONTRACTS
(i) Management Agreement between Franklin Rising Dividends Fund
and Franklin Advisory Services, Inc., dated July 1, 1996
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 14 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: November 25, 1996
(ii) Management Agreement between Franklin Investment Grade
Income Fund and Franklin Advisory Services, Inc., dated
July 1, 1996.
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 14 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: November 25, 1996
(E) UNDERWRITING CONTRACTS
(i) Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement between
Franklin/Templeton Distributors, Inc. and Franklin Managed
Trust dated April 23, 1995
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 14 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: November 25, 1996
(ii) Forms of Dealer Agreements between Franklin/Templeton
Distributors, Inc. and Securities Dealers
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 18 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: November 25, 1998
(F) BONUS OR PROFIT SHARING CONTRACTS
Not Applicable
(G) CUSTODIAN AGREEMENTS
(i) Master Custody Agreement between Registrant and Bank of
New York dated February 16, 1996
Registrant: Franklin New York Tax-Free Trust
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 13 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 33-7785
Filing Date: March 1, 1996
(ii) Terminal Link Agreement between Registrant and Bank of New
York dated February 16, 1996
Registrant: Franklin New York Tax-Free Trust
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 13 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 33-7785
Filing Date: March 1, 1996
(iii) Amendment dated May 7, 1997 to Master Custody Agreement
between the Registrant and Bank of New York dated February
16, 1996
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 17 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: January 29, 1998
(iv) Amendment dated February 27, 1998 to Exhibit A in the
Master Custody Agreement between the Registrant and Bank of
New York dated February 16, 1996
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 18 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: November 25, 1998
(v) Foreign Custody Manager Agreement between the Registrant
and Bank of New York dated July 30, 1998, effective
February 27, 1998
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 18 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: November 25, 1998
(H) OTHER MATERIAL CONTRACTS
(i) Subcontract for Fund Administrative Services dated July 1,
1996 between Franklin Advisory Services, Inc. and Franklin
Templeton Services, Inc.
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 18 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: November 25, 1998
(I) LEGAL OPINION
(i) Opinion and Consent of counsel dated November 20, 1998
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 18 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: November 25, 1998
(J) OTHER OPINIONS
(i) Consent of Independent Accountants
(K) OMITTED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Not Applicable
(L) INITIAL CAPITAL AGREEMENTS
(i) Letter of Understanding dated April 12, 1995
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 12 to Registration
Statement of Registrant
on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: April 24, 1995
(M) RULE 12B-1 PLAN
(i) Amended and Restated Distribution Plan between Franklin
Rising Dividends Fund and Franklin/Templeton Distributors,
Inc., dated July 1, 1993
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 12 to Registration
Statement of Registrant
on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: April 24, 1995
(ii) Amended and Restated Distribution Plan between Franklin
Investment Grade Income Fund and Franklin/Templeton
Distributors, Inc., dated July 1, 1993
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 12 to Registration
Statement of Registrant
on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: April 24, 1995
(iii) Class II Distribution Plan between Franklin Managed Trust
on behalf of Franklin Rising Dividends Fund - Class II, and
Franklin/Templeton Distributors, Inc., pursuant to Rule
12b-1 dated March 30, 1995
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 13 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: November 30, 1995
(iv) Form of Class B Distribution Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1
between Franklin Managed Trust on behalf of Franklin Rising
Dividends Fund and Franklin/Templeton Distributors, Inc.
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 19 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: December 29, 1998
(O) RULE 18F-3 PLAN
(i) Multiple Class Plan for Franklin Investment Grade Income
Fund dated June 12, 1996
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 14 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: November 25, 1996
(ii) Form of Multiple Class Plan for Franklin Rising Dividends
Fund
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 19 to Registration
Statement on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: December 29, 1998
(P) POWER OF ATTORNEY
(i) Power of Attorney dated March 13, 1995
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 12 to Registration
Statement of Registrant
on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: April 24, 1995
(ii) Certificate of Secretary dated March 13, 1995
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 12 to Registration
Statement of Registrant
on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: April 24, 1995
(27) Financial Data Schedule
(i) Financial Data Schedule for Franklin Rising Dividends Fund
- Class I
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 18 to Registration
Statement of Registrant
on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: November 25, 1998
(ii) Financial Data Schedule for Franklin Rising Dividends Fund
- Class II
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 18 to Registration
Statement of Registrant
on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: November 25, 1998
(iii) Financial Data Schedule for Franklin Investment Grade
Income Fund - Class I
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 18 to Registration
Statement of Registrant
on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: November 25, 1998
(iv) Financial Data Schedule for Franklin Investment Grade
Income Fund - Advisor Class
Filing: Post-Effective Amendment No. 18 to Registration
Statement of Registrant
on Form N-1A
File No. 33-9994
Filing Date: November 25, 1998
ITEM 24. PERSONS CONTROLLED BY OR UNDER COMMON CONTROL WITH THE FUND
None
ITEM 25. INDEMNIFICATION
Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act
of 1933 may be permitted to trustees, officers and controlling persons of the
Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, the Registrant
has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange
Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the
Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for
indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the
Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a trustee, officer or controlling
person of the Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or
proceeding) is asserted by such trustee, officer or controlling person in
connection with the securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless
in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling
precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether
such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Act
and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
Please see the Declaration of Trust, By-Laws, Management and Distribution
Agreements, previously filed as exhibits and incorporated herein by reference.
Notwithstanding the provisions contained in the Registrant's By-Laws, in the
absence of authorization by the appropriate court on the merits pursuant to
said By-Laws, any indemnification under said By-Laws shall be made by the
Registrant only if authorized in the manner provided by such By-Laws.
ITEM 26. BUSINESS AND OTHER CONNECTIONS OF INVESTMENT ADVISER
The officers and directors of the Registrant's manager also serve as officers
and/or directors for (1) the manager's corporate parent, Franklin Resources,
Inc., and/or (2) other investment companies in the Franklin Templeton Group
of Funds. In addition, Mr. Charles B. Johnson was formerly a director of
General Host Corporation. For additional information please see Part B and
Schedules A and D of Form ADV of the Funds' Investment Manager (SEC File
801-51967), incorporated herein by reference, which sets forth the officers
and directors of the Investment Manager and information as to any business,
profession, vocation or employment of a substantial nature engaged in by
those officers and directors during the past two years.
ITEM 27. PRINCIPAL UNDERWRITERS
a) Franklin/Templeton Distributors, Inc., ("Distributors") also acts as
principal underwriter of shares of:
Franklin Asset Allocation Fund
Franklin California Tax-Free Income Fund, Inc.
Franklin California Tax-Free Trust
Franklin Custodian Funds, Inc.
Franklin Equity Fund
Franklin Federal Money Fund
Franklin Federal Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin Floating Rate Trust
Franklin Gold Fund
Franklin High Income Trust
Franklin Investors Securities Trust
Franklin Money Fund
Franklin Mutual Series Fund Inc.
Franklin Municipal Securities Trust
Franklin New York Tax-Free Income Fund
Franklin New York Tax-Free Trust
Franklin Real Estate Securities Trust
Franklin Strategic Mortgage Portfolio
Franklin Strategic Series
Franklin Tax-Exempt Money Fund
Franklin Tax-Free Trust
Franklin Templeton Fund Allocator Series
Franklin Templeton Global Trust
Franklin Templeton International Trust
Franklin Templeton Money Fund Trust
Franklin Value Investors Trust
Institutional Fiduciary Trust
Templeton American Trust, Inc.
Templeton Capital Accumulator Fund, Inc.
Templeton Developing Markets Trust
Templeton Funds, Inc.
Templeton Global Investment Trust
Templeton Global Opportunities Trust
Templeton Global Real Estate Fund
Templeton Global Smaller Companies Fund, Inc.
Templeton Growth Fund, Inc.
Templeton Income Trust
Templeton Institutional Funds, Inc.
b) The information required by this Item 29 with respect to each director
and officer of Distributors is incorporated by reference to Part B of this
N-1A and Schedule A of Form BD filed by Distributors with the Securities and
Exchange Commission pursuant to the Securities Act of 1934 (SEC File No.
8-5889).
c) Not Applicable. Registrant's principal underwriter is an affiliated
person of an affiliated person of the Registrant.
ITEM 28. LOCATION OF ACCOUNTS AND RECORDS
The accounts, books or other documents required to be maintained by Section
31 (a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 are kept by the Fund or its
shareholder services agent, Franklin/Templeton Investor Services, Inc., both
of whose principal address is 777 Mariners Island Blvd., San Mateo, CA. 94404.
ITEM 29. MANAGEMENT SERVICES
There are no management-related service contracts not discussed in Part A or
Part B.
ITEM 30. UNDERTAKINGS
The Registrant hereby undertakes to comply with the information requirement
in Item 5 of the Form N-1A by including the required information in the
Registrant's annual report and to furnish each person to whom a prospectus is
delivered a copy of the annual report upon request and without charge.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment
Company Act of 1940, the Registrant has duly caused this Registration
Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly
authorized in the City of San Mateo and the State of California, on the 29th
day of December, 1998.
FRANKLIN MANAGED TRUST
(Registrant)
By: /S/ WILLIAM J. LIPPMAN*
William J. Lippman,
President and Chief Executive Officer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Amendment has been signed below by the following persons in the
capacities and on the dates indicated:
WILLIAM J. LIPPMAN* Principal Executive Officer and Trustee
William J. Lippman Dated: December 29, 1998
MARTIN L. FLANAGAN* Principal Financial Officer
Martin L. Flanagan Dated: December 29, 1998
DIOMEDES LOO-TAM* Principal Accounting Officer
Diomedes Loo-Tam Dated: December 29, 1998
FRANK T. CROHN* Trustee
Frank T. Crohn Dated: December 29, 1998
CHARLES RUBENS, II* Trustee
Charles Rubens, II Dated: December 29, 1998
LEONARD RUBIN* Trustee
Leonard Rubin Dated: December 29, 1998
*By: /s/ Larry L. Greene, Attorney-in-Fact
(Pursuant to Powers of Attorney previously filed)
FRANKLIN MANAGED TRUST
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
EXHIBITS INDEX
EXHIBIT NO. DESCRIPTION LOCATION
EX-99.(a)(i) Amended and Restated Agreement and Declaration *
of Trust dated October 30, 1986
*
EX-99.(a)(ii) Certificate of Amendment of Agreement and *
Declaration of Trust dated June 28, 1988
EX-99.(a)(iii) Certificate of Amendment of Agreement and *
Declaration of Trust dated March 13, 1995
EX-99.(b)(i) By-Laws *
EX-99.(d)(i) Management Agreement between Franklin Rising *
Dividends Fund and Franklin Advisory Services,
Inc., dated July 1, 1996
EX-99.(d)(ii) Management Agreement between Franklin *
Investment Grade Income Fund and Franklin
Advisory Services, Inc., dated July 1, 1996
EX-99.(e)(i) Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement *
between Franklin/Templeton Distributors, Inc.,
and Franklin Managed Trust dated April 23, 1995
EX-99.(e)(ii) Forms of Dealer Agreements between *
Franklin/Templeton Distributors, Inc., and
Securities Dealers
EX-99.(g)(i) Master Custody Agreement between Registrant and *
Bank of New York dated February 16, 1996
EX-99.(g)(ii) Terminal Link Agreement between Registrant and *
Bank of New York dated February 16, 1996
EX-99.(g)(iii) Amendment dated May 7, 1997 to Master Custody *
Agreement between the Registrant and Bank of
New York dated February 16, 1996
EX-99.(g)(iv) Amendment dated February 28, 1998 to Exhibit A *
in the Master Custody Agreement between the
Registrant and Bank of New York dated February
16, 1996
EX-99.(g)(v) Foreign Custody Manager Agreement between the *
Registrant and Bank of New York dated July 30,
1998, effective February 27, 1998
EX-99.(h)(i) Subcontract for Fund Administrative Services *
dated July 1, 1996 between Franklin Advisory
Services, Inc. and Franklin Templeton Services,
Inc.
EX-99.(h)(i) Opinion and Consent of counsel dated November *
20, 1998
EX-99.(j)(i) Consent of Independent Accountants Attached
EX-99.(l)(i) Letter of Understanding dated April 12, 1995 *
EX-99.(m)(i) Amended and Restated Distribution Plan between *
Franklin Rising Dividends Fund and
Franklin/Templeton Distributors, Inc., dated
July 1, 1993
EX-99.(m)(ii) Amended and Restated Distribution Plan between *
Franklin Investment Grade Income Fund and
Franklin/Templeton Distributors, Inc., dated
July 1, 1993
EX-99.(m)(iii) Class II Distribution Plan between Franklin *
Managed Trust on behalf of Franklin Rising
Dividends Fund - Class II and
Franklin/Templeton Distributors, Inc., dated
March 30, 1995
EX-99.(m)(iv) Form of Class B Distribution Plan pursuant to *
Rule 12b-1 between Franklin Managed Trust on
behalf of Franklin Rising Dividends Fund and
Franklin/Templeton Distributors, Inc.
EX-99.(o)(i) Multiple Class Plan for Franklin Investment *
Grade Income Fund
EX-99.(o)(ii) Form of Multiple Class Plan for Franklin Rising *
Dividends Fund
EX-99.(p)(i) Power of Attorney dated March 13, 1995 *
EX-99.(p)(ii) Certificate of Secretary dated March 13, 1995 *
EX-27.(i) Financial Data Schedule for Franklin Rising *
Dividends Fund - Class I
EX-27.(ii) Financial Data Schedule for Franklin Rising *
Dividends Fund - Class II
EX-27.(iii) Financial Data Schedule for Franklin Investment *
Grade Income Fund - Class I
EX-27.(iv) Financial Data Schedule for Franklin Investment *
Grade Income Fund - Advisor Class
* Incorporated by reference
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
We consent to the incorporation by reference in Post-Effective Amendment No. 20
to the Registration Statement of Franklin Managed Trust on Form N-1A File Nos.
33-9994 and 811-4894 of our report dated November 5, 1998 on the financial
statements and financial highlights of Franklin Managed Trust which report is
included in the Annual Report to Shareholders for the year ended September 30,
1998, which is incorporated by reference in the Registration Statement.
/s/ Tate, Weller & Baker
TAIT, WELLER & BAKER
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
December 29, 1998
