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LONGLEAF
PARTNERS
INTERNATIONAL
FUND
MANAGED BY:
SOUTHEASTERN ASSET MANAGEMENT, INC.
October 24, 1998
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PROSPECTUS
October 24, 1998
LONGLEAF PARTNERS
INTERNATIONAL FUND
A Series of Longleaf
Partners Funds Trust
LOGO
Longleaf Partners International Fund is a no-load, non-diversified, open-end,
management investment company which seeks long-term capital growth primarily
through investments in the equity securities of international issuers.
Please read this prospectus before investing, and keep it on file for future
reference. It contains important information, including how the Fund invests and
the services available to shareholders.
To learn more about the Fund, you can obtain a copy of the most recent financial
reports and portfolio listings, or a copy of the Statement of Additional
Information (SAI) dated October 24, 1998. The SAI has been filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and is incorporated herein by reference
(legally forms a part of the prospectus). For a free copy of either document,
call 1-800-445-9469.
Mutual fund shares are not deposits or obligations of, or guaranteed by, any
depository institution. Shares are not insured by the FDIC, the Federal Reserve
Board, or any other agency, and are subject to investment risk, including the
possible loss of principal.
LONGLEAF PARTNERS INTERNATIONAL FUND
MANAGED BY
SOUTHEASTERN ASSET MANAGEMENT, INC.
6410 Poplar Avenue; Suite 900
Memphis, TN 38119
(800) 445-9469 (901) 761-2474
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LIKE ALL MUTUAL FUNDS, THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY
THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION, NOR
HAS THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION
PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO
THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
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CONTENTS
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The International Fund at a Glance.......................... 3
Fund Expenses............................................... 5
The International Fund in Detail
Investment Objective...................................... 6
Investment Policies....................................... 6
Investment Philosophy..................................... 6
Types of Equity Securities................................ 8
Other Investments......................................... 8
Concentration............................................. 8
Investment Techniques
Managing Currency Exposure................................ 8
Types of Currency Exchange Transactions................... 9
Options on Securities and Stock Indices................... 10
Futures Contracts and Related Options..................... 10
Risks of Options, Futures and Foreign Currency
Contracts............................................... 11
Swaps..................................................... 11
When-Issued and Forward Commitment Securities............. 11
Other Investments and Techniques
Borrowing................................................. 11
Short Sales............................................... 12
Loans of Portfolio Securities............................. 12
Restricted and Iliquid Securities......................... 12
Fixed Income Securities................................... 12
Cash Reserves............................................. 13
Other Risk Factors
Investor Suitability...................................... 13
Foreign Economic Risks.................................... 13
Foreign Political Risks................................... 14
Expenses of Foreign Investing............................. 14
Foreign Income Taxes...................................... 14
General Market Risks...................................... 14
Non-Diversification....................................... 14
International Developments.................................. 15
Portfolio Turnover.......................................... 16
Investment Management and Fund Administration
Investment Counsel........................................ 16
Co-Portfolio Managers..................................... 16
Investment Counsel Fees................................... 16
Fund Administrator........................................ 16
Board of Trustees........................................... 17
Other Executive Officers.................................... 18
How to Open an Account...................................... 19
How to Purchase Shares...................................... 19
How to Redeem Shares........................................ 21
Shareholder Servicing....................................... 23
How Shares Are Priced....................................... 23
Distributions and Taxes..................................... 24
Other Information
Significance of Fund Names................................ 25
Code of Ethics............................................ 26
Portfolio Brokerage....................................... 26
Investment Performance Information........................ 26
State of Organization..................................... 27
Exceptions to Investment Minimum.......................... 27
Year 2000 Issues.......................................... 28
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THE INTERNATIONAL FUND AT A GLANCE
INVESTMENT PARTNERS
Longleaf Partners Funds represent what Southeastern Asset Management, Inc.
("Southeastern"), the Funds' Investment Counsel, views as an investment
partnership among all shareholders. Southeastern's employees and affiliates are
one of the largest group of shareholders in the four Longleaf Partners Funds.
Southeastern adheres to the following principles in managing the Longleaf
Partners Funds:
- We will treat your investment in Longleaf as if it were our own.
- We will remain significant investors with you in Longleaf.
- We will invest for the long-term, while always striving to maximize
after-tax returns and to minimize business, financial, purchasing power,
regulatory and market risks.
- We will choose our equity investments based on their discount from our
appraisal of their corporate intrinsic value, their financial strength,
their management, their competitive position, and our assessment of their
future earnings potential.
- We will comply with the diversification standards of the Internal Revenue
Code, but will not overdiversify our holdings.
- We will not impose loads, holding periods, exit fees or 12b-1 charges on our
investment partners.
- We will consider closing the Funds to new investors if our size begins to
restrict our ability to manage the portfolios or if closing would otherwise
benefit existing shareholders.
- We will discourage short-term speculators and market timers from joining us,
the long-term investors in Longleaf.
- We will continue our efforts to improve shareholder services.
- We will communicate with our investment partners as candidly as possible.
GENERAL STRATEGY
Under normal circumstances, Longleaf Partners International Fund (the
"International Fund" or the "Fund") will invest at least 65% of total assets in
the equity securities of a limited number of issuers organized or operating
primarily in at least three countries other than the United States. On occasion,
the Fund may invest a significant portion of its assets in a single country,
such as Japan. Investments may also be made in other countries, both developed
and emerging, and there are no restrictions on the percentage of assets which
may be invested in any particular geographic region or country.
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NON-DIVERSIFICATION
The Fund is non-diversified under the federal securities laws, but expects to
comply with the diversification standards established by the Internal Revenue
code of 1986 for regulated investment companies.
GENERAL RISKS OF INVESTMENT
Market values of all types of securities fluctuate with the movement of the
securities markets, and the value of the Fund's portfolio and the price per
share will vary. Risks of specific types of securities in which the Fund may
invest and in the investment techniques which may be used are discussed in more
detail in the text of the Prospectus. The Fund is also subject to foreign
economic and political risks, currency fluctuations to the extent not hedged,
foreign income taxes, and higher expenses of foreign investing. The Fund expects
to hedge its foreign currency risks through forward foreign currency contracts,
where deemed appropriate. There is no assurance that the Fund will achieve its
investment objective.
WHO MAY WANT TO INVEST
The International Fund is suitable for long-term investors willing to hold their
shares through market fluctuations and who can accept international investment
risk. It is not appropriate for those seeking short-term price appreciation or
for "market timers".
MINIMUM INITIAL INVESTMENT -- NO SALES CHARGES
The minimum initial investment is $10,000. You may purchase shares directly from
the Fund without payment of any sales charges. There are no "12b-1" fees or
redemption fees. You may also purchase shares through an authorized brokerage
firm, which may charge a transaction fee.
EXPENSE LIMITATION
Normal operating expenses, including the investment counsel fee but excluding
extraordinary expenses, are limited by contract to a maximum of 1.75% of average
net assets per annum.
SHAREHOLDER INQUIRIES
Materials describing the Fund and application forms -- (800) 445-9469
Account status and redemption procedures -- (800) 488-4191
Inquiries about Fund operations -- (901) 761-2474
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FUND EXPENSES
Expenses are one of several factors to consider when investing in a mutual
fund. The purpose of the following fee table is to provide an understanding of
the various costs and expenses that shareholders of the International Fund will
bear directly or indirectly.
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Shareholder Transaction Expenses
Sales Load Imposed on Purchases None
Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends None
Deferred Sales Load None
Redemption Fee None
Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(as a percentage of average net assets)
Management Fees 1.50%
12b-1 Fees None
All Other Operating Expenses 0.25%
(after expense reimbursement)
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Total Fund Operating Expenses 1.75%
(after expense reimbursement) ====
EXAMPLE*
You would pay the following 1 Year $ 18
expenses on a $1,000 investment, 3 Years $ 55
assuming a 5% annual return and
either redemption or no redemption
at the end of each time period.
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*The Investment Counsel Agreement provides that Southeastern Asset Management,
Inc. will reduce its Investment Counsel fees to the extent necessary to limit
total fund operating expenses (excluding brokerage commissions, taxes,
interest, and extraordinary expenses) to 1.75% per annum. During the start-up
period while the Fund is accumulating assets, total fund operating expenses
are expected to exceed 1.75% of net assets per annum, thereby requiring
Southeastern to reduce its advisory fees as agreed.
The Example is based on the "Total Operating Expenses" described above,
assuming that maximum expenses under the expense limitation of 1.75% per annum
have been incurred. PLEASE REMEMBER THAT THE EXAMPLE SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED
AS REPRESENTATIVE OF PAST OR FUTURE EXPENSES AND THAT ACTUAL EXPENSES MAY BE
HIGHER OR LOWER THAN THOSE SHOWN. The assumption in the Example of a 5%
annual return is required by regulations of the SEC applicable to all mutual
funds. The assumed 5% annual return is not a prediction of, and does not
represent, the projected or actual performance of the Fund's shares.
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THE INTERNATIONAL FUND IN DETAIL
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INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE. Longleaf Partners International Fund (the "International
Fund" or the "Fund") seeks long-term capital growth by investing primarily in
the equity securities of international or foreign issuers.
INVESTMENT POLICIES. Under normal circumstances, the International Fund will
invest at least 65% of total assets in the equity securities of issuers
domiciled or operating primarily in at least three countries other than the
United States. For example, the Fund may invest in issuers located in Canada,
Western Europe (such as the United Kingdom, the Netherlands, Germany, France,
Switzerland, and Italy), the Far East (such as Japan, Hong Kong, Singapore, and
Korea), Australia, and Latin America. The Fund may on occasion invest a
significant portion of its assets in a single country, such as Japan.
Investments may also be made in other countries, both developed and emerging,
and there are no restrictions on the percentage of assets which may be invested
in any particular geographic region or country. Performance will be measured
against the Morgan Stanley Capital Europe, Australia, Far East Index ("EAFE"), a
broad-based index of stocks that measures the performance of the equity markets
in Europe, Australia, and the Far East.
A company will be considered to be an international or foreign issuer if it is
organized or headquartered outside the United States. In addition, an issuer
will be considered to be international or foreign if, regardless of where
organized, its principal business activities are outside the United States. Such
an issuer must have at least 50% of its assets located outside the United States
or earn at least 50% of its gross income outside the United States.
Under normal market conditions, the Fund expects to be substantially fully
invested in the equity securities of such international or foreign issuers. To
the extent that investments meeting the Fund's criteria are not available or
when, in the discretion of Southeastern, market, business, or economic
conditions so indicate, all or a portion of the Fund's assets may be invested
temporarily in domestic securities consisting of obligations of the United
States government and its instrumentalities, commercial paper, and repurchase
agreements, or the Fund may hold cash in domestic or foreign currencies or
invest in other domestic or foreign bonds or money market instruments.
INVESTMENT PHILOSOPHY. Southeastern believes that superior long-term
performance can be achieved when positions in financially strong, well-managed
companies are acquired at prices significantly below their business value and
are sold when they approach their corporate worth. Using this approach,
Southeastern views stocks as ownership units in business enterprises. Corporate
intrinsic value is determined through careful securities analysis and the use of
established
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disciplines consistently applied over long periods of time. Equity securities
which can be identified and purchased at prices substantially discounted from
their intrinsic worth not only protect investment capital from significant loss
but also facilitate major rewards when the true business value is ultimately
recognized. Seeking the largest margin of safety possible, Southeastern requires
at least a 40% market value discount from its appraisal of a company's intrinsic
value before purchasing a security.
Southeastern's investment analysts determine the appraised per share corporate
worth of potential investments using current, publicly available financial
statements. These are carefully scrutinized, using two primary methods of
appraisal. The first assesses what Southeastern believes to be the real economic
value of the company's net assets. The second examines the enterprise's ability
to generate free cash flow after required or maintenance capital expenditures
and working capital needs. Once free cash flow is determined, conservative
projections about its rate of future growth are made. The present value of that
stream of free cash flow plus its terminal value is then calculated using a
conservative discount rate. If Southeastern's projections are accurate, that
present value would be the price which buyers and sellers negotiating at arms
length would accept for the whole company. In a concluding analysis, the asset
value determination and/or the discounted free cash flow value are compared to
Southeastern's data bank of sales of comparable businesses.
Southeastern also considers the following in selecting potential investments:
- INDICATIONS OF SHAREHOLDER ORIENTED MANAGEMENT. In selecting portfolio
investments, Southeastern seeks companies with properly incented, ownership
vested managements. They must be honest, shareholder oriented, operationally
competent individuals capable of allocating corporate resources
intelligently. Southeastern is seeking exemplary long-term business
partners.
- EVIDENCE OF FINANCIAL STRENGTH. Southeastern requires companies in the
portfolio to have sound financial statements and the potential to generate
excess free cash flow from operations.
- POTENTIAL EARNINGS IMPROVEMENT. The company should be capable of producing
both a meaningful improvement in earnings within three to five years and an
adequate return on its invested capital.
A particular investment may not include all of the above factors, but
Southeastern must be convinced that significant unrealized intrinsic value is
present.
Southeastern recognizes that there are relatively few significantly undervalued
companies available for purchase at any time. As a central part of the general
investment strategy, the Fund likely will invest in a limited number of
companies and may acquire relatively large holdings in particular companies.
Southeastern believes that this approach maximizes the potential for
outperforming the market as a whole.
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TYPES OF EQUITY SECURITIES. The Fund will usually invest in marketable equity
securities of established companies listed on securities exchanges, but may also
invest in securities which are traded over-the-counter. It may also invest up to
15% of net assets in securities which are unregistered or are privately traded
and may have limited liquidity.
Equity securities in which the Fund may invest include common or ordinary
shares, preferred shares, convertible securities, and securities representing
the rights to acquire stock. The Fund may also invest in equity securities which
are in the form of depositary receipts, such as American Depositary Receipts
("ADR's"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDR's"), or Continental Depositary
Receipts ("CDR's"). Depositary receipts which are not sponsored by the issuing
company may be less liquid and there may be less public information available
about the issuer.
The Fund may invest in the securities of U.S. or foreign closed-end investment
companies which invest in the securities of a particular foreign country or
region in circumstances where, for example, a direct investment in that country
or region would not be possible or would be difficult, or the securities of the
investment company are more liquid than the underlying portfolio securities. The
Fund would bear its ratable share of any operating expenses of the closed-end
investment company, including the management fees. Under the provisions of the
Investment Company Act of 1940 all such investments are limited to a maximum of
10% of total assets, with the investment in a single company being limited to 5%
of total assets and 3% of the company's voting securities.
OTHER INVESTMENTS. The International Fund may invest the remainder of its
portfolio in a wide variety of other securities, including equity securities of
domestic issuers, warrants, options on securities and indices, futures, options
on futures, forward foreign currency contracts and other foreign currency
exchange agreements, and in money market instruments, some or all of which may
be issued by U.S. institutions.
CONCENTRATION. The Fund will not invest 25% or more of its total assets in any
one industry.
INVESTMENT TECHNIQUES
MANAGING CURRENCY EXPOSURE. An investment in a foreign equity security should
offer the opportunity for capital appreciation exclusive of significant
fluctuations between the country's currency and U.S. currency. However, not all
foreign currencies can be hedged and, depending on the location of the company's
primary operations or the stability of the foreign currency, hedging may not be
necessary. As part of the investment process, Southeastern will determine
whether currency hedging would be desirable.
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Southeastern may use various techniques to hedge the Fund's exposure to the
effects of possible changes in currency exchange rates, market prices of
securities, or other factors that can affect the value of the portfolio. These
techniques, used primarily for risk management, include buying and selling
options, futures contracts, or options on futures contracts, and entering into
currency exchange contracts or swap agreements. When effectively employed, these
techniques can reduce the risk and increase the return characteristics of the
portfolio. However, if Southeastern employs a strategy that does not correlate
well with market factors, or if the counterparty to the transaction does not
perform as promised, hedging transactions may not be effective and could result
in a loss. Use of such techniques may also increase the volatility of the Fund's
portfolio.
TYPES OF CURRENCY EXCHANGE TRANSACTIONS. Primarily for purposes of currency
hedging, the Fund may engage in currency exchange transactions either on a spot
(cash) basis at the spot rate for purchasing or selling currency prevailing in
the foreign exchange market or through a forward currency exchange contract
("forward contract"). A forward contract is an agreement to purchase or sell a
specified currency at a specified future date (or within a specified time
period) and at a price set at the time of the contract.
Forward currency contracts are usually entered into with banks and broker-
dealers, are not exchange traded and usually have a term less than one year.
Such contracts may be renewed, or may have a term of more than one year. Forward
currency transactions may involve currencies of the different countries in which
the Fund may invest, and serve as hedges against possible variation in the
exchange rate between these currencies.
The Fund's forward currency transactions generally involve transaction hedging
and portfolio hedging for either specific transactions or actual or anticipated
portfolio positions. Transaction hedging is the purchase or sale of a forward
contract with respect to a specific Fund receivable or payable accruing in
connection with the purchase or sale of portfolio securities. Portfolio hedging
is the use of a forward contract with respect to an actual or anticipated
portfolio security position denominated or quoted in a particular currency.
The Fund may engage in transaction or portfolio hedging with respect to the
currency of a particular country in amounts approximating actual or anticipated
positions in securities denominated in such currency. When the Fund owns or
anticipates owning securities in countries whose currencies are linked,
Southeastern may aggregate such positions as to the currency hedged. Although
forward contracts may be used to protect the Fund from adverse currency
movements, the use of such hedges may reduce or eliminate the potentially
positive effect of currency revaluations on the Fund's total return.
When Southeastern believes that the currency of a particular foreign country may
sustain substantial movement against another currency, it may "cross hedge."
Cross hedging entails entering into a forward contract to sell or buy the amount
of the foreign currency (or another currency which acts as a proxy for
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that currency) approximating that value of some or all of the portfolio
securities denominated in that foreign currency. Forward transactions may call
for the delivery of one foreign currency in exchange for another foreign
currency and may at times involve currencies other than those in which its
portfolio securities are denominated.
OPTIONS ON SECURITIES AND STOCK INDICES. The Funds may write (i.e., sell) put
and call options and purchase put and call options on securities or stock
indices. An option on a security is a contract that gives the purchaser, in
return for the premium paid, the right to buy a specified security if it is a
call option, or to sell a specified security if it is a put option, from or to
the writer of the option at a designated price during the term of the option. An
option on a stock index gives the purchaser, in return for the premium paid, the
right to receive from the seller cash equal to the difference between the
closing price of the index and the exercise price of the option.
The Fund may write a call or put option only if the option is "covered." While
the Fund is obligated as the writer of a call option, it will own the underlying
securities subject to the call, hold a call at the same or lower exercise price
or otherwise hold securities or segregate assets to cover the call. For the same
exercise period, and on the same securities as the written call, a put is
covered if the Fund maintains collateral consisting of cash, liquid money market
instruments, or U.S. government securities with a value equal to the exercise
price in a segregated account, or holds a put on the same underlying security at
an equal or greater exercise price. The value of the underlying securities on
which options may be written at any one time will not exceed 25% of the total
assets of the Fund.
FUTURES CONTRACTS AND RELATED OPTIONS. The Fund may enter into foreign
currency, interest rate, and stock index futures contracts and purchase and
write (sell) related options that are traded on an exchange designated by the
Commodity Futures Trading Commission (the "CTFC") or, if consistent with CFTC
regulations, on foreign exchanges. Aggregate initial margin and premiums
required to establish positions other than those considered by the CFTC to be
"bona fide" hedging, will not exceed 5% of the Fund's net assets, or such other
percentage as may be required by the CFTC, after taking into account unrealized
losses on any such contracts. Although the Fund is limited in the amount of
assets that may be invested in futures transactions other than bona fide
hedging, there is no overall limit on the percentage of the Fund's assets that
may be at risk in connection with futures transactions.
These futures contracts are standardized contracts for the future delivery of
foreign currency or an interest rate sensitive security or, in the case of a
stock index and certain futures contracts, are settled in cash with reference to
a specified multiplier times the change in the specified index, exchange rate or
interest rate. An option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right, in
return for the premium paid, to assume a position in a futures contract.
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RISKS OF OPTIONS, FUTURES AND FOREIGN CURRENCY CONTRACTS. Using puts and calls
in conjunction with each other for hedging purposes can reduce market risks.
However, when used separately, options and futures have risks. For example, the
price movements of the securities underlying the options and futures may not
follow the price movements of the portfolio securities subject to the hedge.
Gains on investments in options and futures depend on the ability to predict
correctly the direction of stock prices, interest rates, and other economic
factors. Where a liquid secondary market for options or futures does not exist,
the Fund may not be able to close their positions and in such an event, the loss
is theoretically unlimited.
SWAPS. The Fund may enter into swaps involving international equity interests,
indexes, and currencies without limit. An equity swap is an agreement to
exchange streams of payments computed by reference to a notional amount based on
the performance of a single stock or a basket of stocks. Index swaps involve the
exchange by the Fund with another party of the respective amounts payable with
respect to a notional principal amount related to one or more indices. Currency
swaps involve the exchange of cash flows on a notional amount of two or more
currencies based on their relative future values.
The Fund may enter into these transactions to preserve a return or spread on a
particular investment or portion of its assets, to protect against currency
fluctuations, as a duration management technique, or to protect against any
increase in the price of securities the Fund anticipates purchasing at a later
date. These transactions may also be used to obtain the price performance of a
security without actually purchasing the security in circumstances where, for
example, the subject security is illiquid, is unavailable for direct investment
or is available only on less attractive terms.
Swaps have risks associated with them, including possible default by the counter
party to the transaction, illiquidity and, where used for hedges, the risk that
the use of a swap could result in losses greater than if the swap had not been
employed.
WHEN-ISSUED AND FORWARD COMMITMENT SECURITIES. The Fund may purchase securities
on a "when issued" basis and may purchase or sell securities on a "forward
commitment" basis in order to hedge against anticipated changes in interest
rates and prices. There is a risk that the securities may not be delivered or
that they may decline in value before the settlement date.
OTHER INVESTMENTS AND TECHNIQUES
BORROWING. The Fund may borrow up to one third of its total assets for purposes
of increasing its investments (leveraging) and may borrow up to 5% of its total
assets for temporary or emergency purposes, such as clearing portfolio purchases
or satisfying redemptions, provided that total borrowings at any one
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time may not exceed one third of total assets. Borrowing to increase the Fund's
investments, known as leveraging, is a speculative techinque and increases the
volatility of the Fund's net asset value. Borrowings may be made from banks and
from any other sources allowable under applicable law.
SHORT SALES. The Funds may enter into short sales, provided the dollar amount
of short sales at any one time would not exceed 25% of net assets, and the value
of securities of any one issuer in which the Funds are short would not exceed 5%
of net assets. The Funds must maintain liquid collateral in a segregated account
equal to the current market value of the shorted securities, marked-to-market
daily. These restrictions do not apply to short sales against the box, where the
Fund owns an equal amount of the securities sold short or securities convertible
into or exchangeable into an equal amount of securities of the same issuer sold
short, without additional payment.
LOANS OF PORTFOLIO SECURITIES. The Fund may lend to broker-dealers portfolio
securities with an aggregate market value of up to one-third of total assets.
Such loans must be secured by liquid collateral in an amount at least equal to
the current market value of the securities loaned, marked-to-market daily. The
Fund may terminate the loans at any time and obtain the return of the securities
loaned within three business days. During the period of the loan, the Fund
continues to receive any interest or dividends paid on the loaned securities.
RESTRICTED AND ILLIQUID SECURITIES. The Fund may invest a maximum of 15% of its
net assets in restricted securities (securities which are not registered or
which are not deemed to be readily marketable) and all other illiquid
securities, including repurchase agreements with maturities of more than seven
days. Securities that may be resold without registration under Rule 144A may be
treated as liquid for these purposes, in accordance with guidelines established
by the Board of Trustees.
Restricted or non-registered securities may be sold only in privately negotiated
transactions or in a public offering under an effective registration statement
or under Rules 144 and 144A. If registration is required, the Fund may be
obligated to pay all or part of the registration expense, and a considerable
period may elapse between the time of the decision to sell and the time the Fund
may be permitted to sell a security under an effective registration statement.
If during such a period adverse market conditions develop, the Fund might obtain
a less favorable price. Restricted securities will be valued as the Board of
Trustees determines, in good faith, to reflect the fair market value.
FIXED INCOME SECURITIES. The Fund may invest a maximum of 25% of net assets in
investment grade and non-investment grade debt securities of companies and
preferred stock. Securities rated non-investment grade (lower than Baa by
Moody's Investor Services Inc. or lower than BBB by Standard and Poors
Corporation) are sometimes referred to as "high yield" or "junk" bonds. The
Statement of Additional Information contains a table summarizing these ratings.
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The prices of high yield securities may be less sensitive to interest-rate
changes than more highly rated investments, but more sensitive to adverse
economic downturns or individual corporate developments. Yields on high yield
securities will fluctuate. If the issuer of high yield securities defaults, the
Fund may incur additional expenses to seek recovery.
CASH RESERVES. Cash reserves, held to provide flexibility to take advantage of
new investment opportunities and for other cash needs, will be invested in money
market instruments and generally will not exceed 15% of total assets. If
Southeastern has difficulty finding an adequate number of undervalued equity
securities, all or any portion of assets may also be invested temporarily in
money market instruments. Cash reserves in excess of 35% of total assets will be
held for defensive purposes only.
Money market instruments will generally consist of obligations issued or
guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities and
obligations subject to repurchase agreements for these instruments. A repurchase
agreement permits an investor to purchase a U.S. Government security from a
vendor, with an agreement by the vendor to repurchase the security at the same
price, plus interest.
Other acceptable money market instruments include commercial paper, certificates
of deposit, bankers' acceptances issued by domestic banks having total assets in
excess of $1 billion, and money market investment companies (each limited to a
maximum of 5% of total assets).
OTHER RISK FACTORS
INVESTOR SUITABILITY. The International Fund provides an investor with the
ability to take advantage of changes in foreign economies and market conditions.
Some foreign economies have, from time to time, grown faster than the U.S.
economy, and the returns on investments in these countries have exceeded those
of similar U.S. investments, although there can be no assurance that these
conditions will continue. All investments have risks, and no investment is
suitable for all investors.
The International Fund is designed for long-term investors who can accept
international investment risk, including currency risk, political and economic
risk, regulatory risk, and international market risk. Although world economies
are becoming increasingly integrated, economic conditions in particular
countries can lead to substantial differences in stock market valuations. The
Fund's share price will tend to reflect movements of the different securities
markets in which it is invested and, to the extent not hedged, the foreign
currencies of the countries where investments are made.
FOREIGN ECONOMIC RISKS. In addition to the risks associated with the investment
strategies previously discussed, an investor should understand and consider the
particular risks involved in investing internationally. Investing in the
securities of foreign issuers, positions which are generally denominated in
foreign
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currencies, and utilization of forward foreign currency exchange contracts
involve both opportunities and risks not typically associated with investing in
U.S. securities. These include: fluctuations in exchange rates of foreign
currencies; possible imposition of exchange control regulation or currency
restrictions that would prevent cash from being brought back to the U.S.; less
public information about issuers of securities; less governmental supervision of
stock exchanges, securities brokers and issuers of securities; different
accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards; different settlement
periods and trading practices; less liquidity and frequently greater price
volatility in some foreign markets than in the U.S.; imposition of foreign
taxes; and sometimes less advantageous legal, operational, and financial
protections applicable to foreign sub-custodial arrangements.
FOREIGN POLITICAL RISKS. In addition, to the extent that the political
environment in a particular foreign country is not stable, there is the
possibility of increased rates of inflation, currency devaluation, expropriation
of assets, confiscatory taxation, seizure or nationalization of foreign bank
deposits, establishment of foreign governmental restrictions, or other adverse
political, social or diplomatic developments that could adversely affect the
economy and an investment in companies located in such countries.
EXPENSES OF FOREIGN INVESTING. The cost of investing in international
securities is higher than the cost of investing in U.S. securities, because,
among other reasons, custodial fees are higher, there are additional expenses
for currency hedging, and the Fund's advisory fees are higher than for a typical
domestic equity fund. However, as discussed on page 16, Southeastern limits
total operating expenses including its fees to a maximum of 1.75% per annum.
FOREIGN INCOME TAXES. Investment income received by the Fund from sources
within foreign countries may be subject to foreign income taxes withheld at the
source. The United States has entered into tax treaties with many foreign
countries which entitle the Fund to a reduced rate of tax or exemption from tax
on such income. It is not possible to determine the effective rate of foreign
tax in advance, because the amount of assets to be invested within various
countries is not known. To the extent that the Fund is liable for foreign income
taxes withheld at the source, the Fund intends to cooperate so as to meet the
requirements of the Internal Revenue Code to "pass through" to shareholders any
credits for foreign income taxes paid. There can be no assurance that the Fund
will be able to do so.
GENERAL MARKET RISKS. There is no assurance that the Fund will achieve its
investment objective. Market values of all types of securities fluctuate and the
value of the Fund's portfolio and the prices per share will vary, based on
general stock market conditions. Liquidity risks can limit the ability of the
Funds to sell portfolio securities at current market valuations. Fixed income
securities have interest rate risks, which cause a decline in their principal
values when interest rates rise. For these and other reasons, the value of your
investment as a shareholder at redemption may be more or less than the purchase
price.
NON-DIVERSIFICATION. The Fund is classified as non-diversified under the
Investment Company Act of 1940. As a result, the percentage of assets that may
be
14
<PAGE> 16
invested in any one issuer is not limited under the securities laws. However,
the Fund intends to comply with the investment company diversification standards
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. These standards require that at the close
of each quarter, at least 50% of the portfolio must be invested in issuers where
the Fund's investment does not exceed 5% of total assets and the Fund does not
own more than 10% of the company's voting stock. With respect to the other 50%
of the Fund's portfolio, there are no limits on the percentage of assets which
may be invested in a single issuer or the percentage of the company's voting
stock which may be acquired, except that the Fund may not invest more than 25%
of assets in a single issuer or in two or more issuers which the Fund controls
and which are engaged in the same or similar businesses.
Under these diversification requirements, the Fund must, when fully invested,
own at least twelve securities positions. Ten of the positions may not exceed 5%
of total assets each at the time of purchase; the remaining two positions could
each comprise 25% of total assets at the time of purchase. Generally,
Southeastern anticipates that the portfolios will consist of more than twelve
positions. To the extent that the Fund is less diversified, it may be more
susceptible to adverse economic, political, or regulatory developments affecting
a single investment than if there were broader diversification.
INTERNATIONAL DEVELOPMENTS
EURO-DENOMINATED SECURITIES. On January 1, 1999, the European Monetary Union
("EMO") plans to implement a new currency unit, the Euro. The countries
initially expected to convert to the Euro include Austria, Belgium, France,
Germany, Luxembourg, the Netherlands, Ireland, Finland, Italy, Portugal and
Spain. After the conversion, financial transactions and market information in
the participating countries, including share quotations and company financial
information, will be denominated in Euros. A large percentage of the stock
exchange capitalization of the total European market may be reflected in Euros.
Monetary policy for participating countries is expected to be managed by the
newly formed European Central Bank. This transition may change the European
economic environment and the behavior of European securities markets, which
could impact pricing of securities in the participating countries. The process
of implementing the Euro also may affect financial markets world-wide and may
result in changes in the relative strength and value of the U.S. dollar or other
major currencies. Because the advent of the Euro may affect the operations or
financial statement reporting of particular companies located in the
participating European countries, this development will be considered in making
investments in these countries but is not expected to cause a fundamental change
in the investment philosophy or the underlying method of investment analysis
used by Southeastern in managing the portfolio of the International Fund.
RESPONSE OF FOREIGN INSTITUTIONS TO YEAR 2000 ISSUE. The Fund and Southeastern
have taken reasonable steps to assure that computer systems affecting their
operations are being properly modified or are already year 2000 compliant, as
more fully discussed on page 28 of the Prospectus. However, it has been reported
that foreign institutions have made less progress in addressing the Year 2000
issue than major U.S. entities, in part because of the need to prepare for the
earlier conversion to the Euro. To the extent that foreign or domestic
15
<PAGE> 17
institutions with which the Fund does business or in which the Fund invests do
not adequately address the Year 2000 issue on a timely basis, there could be an
adverse impact on the handling of security trades, interest and dividend
payments, pricing, and other transactions affecting the operations or investment
management of the Fund.
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The Fund may engage in short-term trading, but this strategy will not be used as
a primary means of achieving its investment objective. Although the Fund cannot
accurately predict portfolio turnover, generally it is expected to be less than
50%. There are no limits on the rate of portfolio turnover, and investments will
be sold without regard to the length of time held when investment considerations
support such action. Higher turnover rates, such as rates over 100%, involve
greater commissions and transaction costs.
INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT AND FUND ADMINISTRATION
INVESTMENT COUNSEL. Southeastern Asset Management, Inc., ("Southeastern"),
located in Memphis, Tennessee, is the Fund's Investment Counsel. Since 1975, the
firm has managed securities portfolios for ERISA and government retirement
plans, charitable foundations, educational endowments, and individuals. The firm
is owned and controlled by its principal officers, with Mr. O. Mason Hawkins,
Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer, owning a majority of the
outstanding shares. The firm presently manages more than $12 billion in client
assets.
CO-PORTFOLIO MANAGERS. Mr. O. Mason Hawkins, Chairman of the Board and Chief
Executive Officer of the Fund and Southeastern, and Mr. G. Staley Cates,
President of Southeastern, are co-portfolio managers of the International Fund.
Mr. Eugene Andrew McDermott, III, is Assistant Portfolio Manager. Collectively
they have primary responsibility for the management of the Fund's portfolio.
INVESTMENT COUNSEL FEES. The Fund pays Southeastern an investment counsel fee
which is accrued daily and paid monthly in arrears. The fee is 1.50% of average
daily net assets per annum. The Investment Counsel Agreement between the Fund
and Southeastern provides that Southeastern will reduce its Investment Counsel
fee to the extent necessary to limit normal operating expenses of the Fund to
1.75% per annum. The expense limitation does not apply to brokerage commissions,
interest, taxes, and any extraordinary expenses.
FUND ADMINISTRATOR. As Fund Administrator, Southeastern provides all business,
administrative and compliance services for the Fund. For these services, the
firm receives an Administration Fee of 0.10% of average net assets per annum,
accrued daily and paid monthly in arrears. The Fund pays all direct expenses of
its operations, such as professional fees, industry association fees, insurance
premiums, registration fees, and costs of printing, postage, and supplies. The
Fund also reimburses Southeastern for computer licensing fees for mutual fund
software programs and a portion of the compensation of the Fund's Treasurer.
16
<PAGE> 18
BOARD OF TRUSTEES
O. MASON HAWKINS*, CFA, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer; Co-
Portfolio Manager.
Founder and Director, Southeastern Asset Management, Inc. (since 1975); Director
of Research, First Tennessee Investment Management Company, Memphis, TN (1974-
1975); Director of Research, Atlantic National Bank, Jacksonville, FL
(1972-1974); Director, Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc. (since 1993).
Education: B.S.B.A., Finance, University of Florida, 1970; M.B.A., University of
Georgia, 1971.
W. REID SANDERS*, Trustee and President.
Founder and Director, Southeastern Asset Management, Inc. (since 1975);
Investment Officer, First Tennessee Investment Management Company, Memphis, TN
(1973-1975); Credit Analyst and Commercial Lending Official, Union Planters
National Bank, Memphis, TN (1972-1973).
Education: B.A., Economics, University of Virginia, 1971.
CHADWICK H. CARPENTER, JR., Trustee.
Private investor and consultant to several software startups. Currently a board
member of Indus River Networks and Call Technologies, which are developing
products for virtual private networks and telephony respectively. Previously
spent 14 years in senior executive officer positions at Progress Software
Corporation (a leading provider of software products used by developers to build
and deploy commercial applications worldwide). Prior to 1983, Manager of MIMS
Systems Operation, General Electric Information Services Company; Senior
Consultant, Touche Ross & Company.
Education: B.S., Electrical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology,
1971; M.S., Electrical Engineering, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, 1972.
DANIEL W. CONNELL, JR., Trustee.
Senior Vice President -- Marketing, Jacksonville Jaguars, Ltd., Jacksonville, FL
(since 1994) (National Football League franchise); Executive Vice
President -- Corporate Banking Group and other officer positions, First Union
National Bank of Florida, Jacksonville, FL (1970-94); Chairman, Jacksonville
Chamber of Commerce (1997); Commissioner, Jacksonville Economic Development
Commission; Advisory Director, First Union National Bank of Florida.
Education: B.S.B.A., University of Florida, 1970.
STEVEN N. MELNYK, Trustee.
Vice President, The St. Joe Company, Jacksonville, Florida. Chairman of the
Executive Committee and President, Riverside Golf Group, Inc., (1987-97),
Jacksonville, FL (a corporation engaged in the design, construction and
operation through ownership of golf courses throughout the southeastern US);
Golf commentator and sports marketing executive, ABC Sports (since 1991) and CBS
Sports (1982-1991); Founding director and former Chairman, First Coast Community
Bank, Fernandina Beach, FL; Winner of U.S. Amateur Championship, 1969, and
British Amateur Championship, 1971.
Education: B.S.B.A., Industrial Management, University of Florida, 1969.
C. BARHAM RAY, Trustee.
Chairman of the Board and Secretary, SSM Corporation, Memphis, TN (since 1974)
(a venture capital investor); Director, Financial Federal Savings Bank, Memphis,
TN.
Education: B.A., Vanderbilt University, 1968; M.B.A., University of Virginia,
1973.
- ---------------
* Mr. Hawkins and Mr. Sanders are employed by the Investment Counsel and each is
deemed to be a Trustee who is an "interested person", as that term is defined
in Section 2(a)(19) of the Investment Company Act of 1940. Mr. Carpenter
serves as Chairman of the Audit Committee, which is composed of the four
Trustees who are not affiliated with Southeastern.
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<PAGE> 19
OTHER EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT
G. STALEY CATES, CFA, Co-Portfolio Manager; Vice President -- Investments.
Professional Experience: President, Southeastern Asset Management, Inc. (since
1994); Vice President, Southeastern Asset Management, Inc. (1986-1994).
Education: B.B.A., Finance, University of Texas, 1986.
E. ANDREW MCDERMOTT, III, Assistant Portfolio Manager
Professional Experience: Southeastern Asset Management, Inc. (since 1998); J.P.
Morgan & Co., San Francisco, Hong Kong, and Singapore; Associate and Analyst
(1994-1998); NEC Logistics, Tokyo (1992-1994).
Education: B.A., Princeton University, 1992.
JOHN B. BUFORD, CFA, Vice President -- Investments.
Professional Experience: Southeastern Asset Management, Inc. (since 1990); Vice
President, First Tennessee Bank (1989-90); Commercial Lending Officer/Credit
Analyst, Metropolitan National Bank (1985-88).
Education: B.B.A., Finance, University of Texas, 1985.
FRANK N. STANLEY, III, CFA, Vice President -- Investment.
Professional Experience: Vice President, Southeastern Asset Management, Inc.
(since 1984); Portfolio Manager and Analyst, Montag & Caldwell, Atlanta, GA
(1974-1984); Investment Officer, Atlantic National Bank, Jacksonville, FL
(1972-1974).
Education: B.S., Management, Georgia Institute of Technology, 1964; Graduate
study, Emory University, 1965; M.B.A., Marketing, University of Florida, 1970.
FUND OPERATIONS
CHARLES D. REAVES, Executive Vice-President.
Professional Experience: General Counsel, Southeastern Asset Management, Inc.
(since 1988); Vice President in corporate finance, Porter, White & Yardley,
Inc., Birmingham, AL (1986-1988); Senior Vice President -- Finance and Secretary
(1981-1986) and Vice President and General Counsel (1974-1981), Saunders System
Inc., Birmingham, AL; Director, ICI Mutual Insurance Company (1998).
Education: J.D., University of Alabama, 1961; L.L.M. (Taxation), Georgetown
University Law Center, 1966; M.B.A., Emory University, 1981.
JULIE M. DOUGLAS, CPA, Executive Vice President -- Operations & Treasurer.
Professional Experience: Southeastern Asset Management, Inc. (since 1989);
Audit Supervisor and Audit Senior, Coopers & Lybrand, Birmingham, AL and
Pittsburgh, PA (1984-1989).
Education: B.S., Accounting, Pennsylvania State University, 1984.
MARKETING AND ADMINISTRATION
LEE B. HARPER, Executive Vice President -- Marketing.
Professional Experience: Southeastern Asset Management, Inc. (since 1993);
Consultant, IBM Corporation, Memphis, TN (1989-1993); Business Analyst, McKinsey
& Company, Atlanta, GA (1985-1987).
Education: B.A., University of Virginia, 1985; M.B.A., Harvard University,
1989.
RANDY D. HOLT, CPA, Vice President -- Secretary.
Professional Experience: Vice President and Secretary, Southeastern Asset
Management, Inc. (since 1994); Secretary/Treasurer (1985-1994); Ott, Baxter,
Holt (1983-1985); A.M. Pullen & Co. (1982-1983); Harry M. Jay & Associates
(1978-1982).
Education: B.S., Accounting, University of Tennessee, 1976.
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<PAGE> 20
HOW TO OPEN AN ACCOUNT
REGULAR ACCOUNTS. To invest in Longleaf Partners International Fund, complete,
sign and mail the account application to the address below. If you are already
an investor in the Longleaf Partners Funds, your account may be modeled after
your existing account. THE MINIMUM INVESTMENT FOR THIS FUND IS $10,000.
Longleaf Partners Funds
P.O. Box 419929
Kansas City, MO 64141-6929
INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ACCOUNTS. You can open a regular or Roth IRA by
requesting the IRA Application kit. The kit contains an explanation of tax
considerations and information on the trustee, State Street Bank. After reading
the information, fill in the application and the transfer form and mail to the
above address. THE MINIMUM INITIAL INVESTMENT IS $10,000, WHICH MUST BE
SATISFIED PRIMARILY BY TRANSFERRING FUNDS FROM AN EXISTING IRA OR A QUALIFIED
RETIREMENT PLAN. YOU WILL BE CHARGED AN INITIAL SET-UP FEE OF $15 AND A $10
ANNUAL MAINTENANCE FEE.
HOW TO PURCHASE SHARES
You may obtain shares of the Fund by two different methods. (1) You may invest
directly with the Fund (using the following instructions) and you will not be
charged a transaction fee. (2) You may purchase shares through an authorized
broker of your choice and the broker may charge an additional transaction fee
for its services. All applications to purchase shares are subject to acceptance
by the Fund.
For all types of accounts, the minimum initial investment for a direct purchase
from the Fund is $10,000. There are no minimum requirements on subsequent
purchases. Authorized brokers may have a different minimum investment. The
public offering price is the net asset value per share at the next market close
after the transfer agent receives an order with all required documentation.
BY MAIL. To purchase shares for existing accounts by mail, send a check payable
to Longleaf Partners Funds along with the application or the remittance stub
from the bottom of your most recent transaction statement to:
Longleaf Partners Funds
P.O. Box 419929
Kansas City, MO 64141-6929
INCLUDE THE NAME OF THE FUND AND YOUR ACCOUNT NUMBER ON THE CHECK. THE FUND DOES
DO NOT ACCEPT THIRD PARTY CHECKS.
If your check is returned because of insufficient funds or because you have
stopped payment, you will be responsible for any losses sustained by the Fund
19
<PAGE> 21
from custodian or transfer agent fees or a decline in the net asset value when
the shares issued are cancelled. If you are an existing shareholder, the Fund
may collect losses by redeeming the appropriate amount from your account.
BY WIRE. You may purchase shares by bank wire transfer. To do so:
- - Call the transfer agent at (800) 488-4191 to establish an account. Be prepared
to provide all information requested on the application. Your account number
will be assigned.
- - Instruct your bank to wire funds as follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
- State Street Bank, Boston, MA
- ABA routing number 011000028
- A/C# 9905-023-9
- Longleaf Partners International Fund (#136)
- Your account number and your name
</TABLE>
Amounts transferred by bank wire are considered received on the same day they
are deposited in the Fund account if received before the close of the New York
Stock Exchange, usually at 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time. If received later, shares
will be purchased at the following business day's closing price. Wire transfers
should be initiated as early in the day as possible to assure receipt before the
close of the Exchange. A completed application must be sent to the Fund as soon
as possible. No redemptions can be paid until the Fund receives a completed
application.
BY AUTOMATIC MONTHLY INVESTMENT. After you have opened an account, you can
arrange for automatic investments of $100 or more by filling in the Automatic
Monthly Investment Plan section of the application and sending a voided check
from your bank account. There is no charge for the Automatic Monthly Investment
Plan, but your bank or credit union may charge a service fee. Transfers will
occur on the business day on or about the 21st day of each month, as affected by
weekends and bank holidays. Cancellation of the plan or a change in the amount
of the withdrawal must be made in writing.
CERTIFICATES. To receive a stock certificate with your purchases, you must send
written instructions. Unless shares are purchased with wired funds, your
certificate will not be issued until 15 days after your purchase. Please note
that if you request certificates, you cannot redeem those shares without
returning the certificates. If you lose your certificates, you may incur a cost
to replace them.
PURCHASES AND REDEMPTIONS OF FUND SHARES THROUGH BROKERAGE FIRMS. You may
purchase and redeem shares through securities brokerage firms having agreements
with the Longleaf Funds. The brokerage firm may charge transaction fees.
Investors using brokerage firms to purchase and redeem Fund shares will follow
the brokerage firm's procedures. Those procedures take precedence over any
instructions for opening accounts directly with the Fund. The brokerage firm is
responsible for supplying its clients who are Fund shareholders with periodic
account statements, Prospectus and financial reports.
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<PAGE> 22
BROKER/DEALER AND INSTITUTIONAL INVESTMENTS. Upon execution of formal trading
agreements, the Fund will accept telephone trade orders under $100,000 from NASD
members or other institutional investors. Larger phone orders require special
approval. The Fund also offers automated trading through the transfer agent,
NFDS. In addition, institutional investors may establish pre-authorized fax
redemption privileges. Please contact the Fund directly to obtain more
information regarding these special processing options.
For ALL trading, full payment must be received within one day of the trade date.
The entity placing the order will be responsible for any loss resulting from
non-settlement. All purchase minimums and other requirements specified in
trading agreements must be followed to remain in good standing. The Fund may
withdraw trading privileges if it is in its best interests.
HOW TO REDEEM SHARES
PROCEDURES. At any time, you may withdraw any portion of your account in a
share or dollar amount. Redemption proceeds are mailed within one week of
receipt of the redemption request in Good Order. Good Order means that you have
a completed application on file and that the redemption request includes:
- Account number and fund name -- Longleaf Partners International Fund (#136).
- Amount of the transaction (specified in dollars or shares)
- Signatures of all owners exactly as they are registered on the account
- Signature guarantees if required and applicable (see below)
- Fund certificates if applicable
- Other supporting legal documents that may be required in cases of estates,
corporations, trusts and certain other accounts
If you have questions about these requirements, please call the transfer agent
at (800) 488-4191.
The Fund must have received payment for the shares being redeemed, and may delay
redemption payment (for up to 15 days from the date of purchase) until collected
payment for the initial share purchase has been received.
REDEMPTION PRICE AND FEES. The redemption price is the net asset value per
share at the next market close after receipt of a redemption request in good
order. The redemption price may be more or less than the shares' original cost.
The Funds charge no redemption fees. IRA accounts will remain subject to the
full $10 annual maintenance fee in the year of redemption.
21
<PAGE> 23
BY MAIL. Mail your redemption requests and required documentation to:
Longleaf Partners Funds
P.O. Box 419929
Kansas City, MO 64141-6929
The Funds suggest that you send redemption requests by registered or certified
mail to the above address or by overnight courier to:
Longleaf Partners Funds
c/o NFDS, Transfer Agent;
330 W. 9th Street
Kansas City, MO 64105;
Telephone (800) 488-4191.
BY TELEPHONE. You may redeem up to $100,000 by telephone from your regular
account, if you have so elected on the application or by the change of status
form. Telephone redemptions may not be used for IRA's. Proceeds of telephone
redemptions will be sent only to the address of record or will be wired only to
the pre-determined commercial bank account. If you call before 4:00 p.m. Eastern
Time, you will receive that day's closing price; redemption requests made after
4:00 p.m. Eastern Time will receive the next day's closing price. Once
initiated, a telephone redemption request cannot be changed or cancelled. Any
changes in the instructions for your account must be made in writing, with a
signature guarantee. The transfer agent may verify these changes before a
redemption.
The transfer agent employs reasonable procedures to confirm that instructions
communicated by telephone are genuine. When these procedures are followed, the
Fund and the transfer agent are not liable for losses caused by following
telephone instructions which are reasonably believed to be genuine. The Fund
reserves the right to revise or terminate the telephone redemption privilege at
any time.
SIGNATURE GUARANTEE. Redemptions over $100,000 must be made in writing and
require a signature guarantee. The signatures must correspond to all names in
which the account is registered and all registered owners must sign the request
and have their signatures guaranteed. To obtain a signature guarantee, a member
firm of a domestic stock exchange, a U.S. commercial bank or other financial
institution that is an eligible guarantor institution through membership in a
medallion or similar program must witness the signature and stamp the document
with the appropriate certification. A notary public is NOT an eligible
guarantor.
OTHER INFORMATION. Longleaf Partners Funds may suspend redemption rights or
postpone payments at times when the New York Stock Exchange is closed for other
than weekends or holidays or under emergency circumstances permitted by the U.S.
Securities and Exchange Commission.
22
<PAGE> 24
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING
TRANSFER AGENT. National Financial Data Services ("NFDS"), an affiliate of
State Street Bank and Trust Company, serves as transfer agent and dividend
disbursing agent. NFDS maintains all shareholder accounts and records, processes
all transactions including purchases, redemptions, transfers and exchanges,
prepares and mails account confirmations and correspondence, issues stock
certificates, and handles all account inquiries. PLEASE DIRECT ALL QUESTIONS
REGARDING YOUR ACCOUNT TO NFDS AT (800) 488-4191. Southeastern Asset Management
does not process account transactions and will forward all correspondence to
NFDS in Kansas City, which will process the transaction when the materials are
received.
CONFIRMATION AND REPORTS. If you invest directly with the Fund, you will
receive a confirmation statement after each transaction and a statement of your
account status after the end of each calendar quarter. You will also receive all
tax documentation as required by the IRS. In addition, you will receive
quarterly, semi-annual and audited annual reports which provide information on
the Fund's portfolio of investments. If you invest through a brokerage firm,
shareholder materials will be sent by that firm.
HOW SHARES ARE PRICED
The net asset value per share is determined as of the close of trading on each
day that the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is open for business. Net asset
value per share is computed by taking the value of all assets of the portfolio,
subtracting its liabilities as accrued daily, and dividing by the number of
shares outstanding. Presently, the NYSE closes at 4:00 p.m. Eastern Standard or
Eastern Daylight Time. In the calculation of net asset value:
(1) Portfolio securities listed or traded on a securities exchange and
over-the-counter securities traded on the NASDAQ national market are
valued at the last sale price; if there were no sales that day, securities
listed on major exchanges are valued at the midpoint between the latest
available and representative bid and ask prices;
(2) All other portfolio securities for which over-the-counter market
quotations are readily available are valued at the midpoint between the
latest available and representative bid and ask prices;
(3) When market quotations are not readily available, portfolio securities are
valued at their fair value as determined in good faith under procedures
established by and under the general supervision of the Funds' Trustees;
(4) Valuation of debt securities for which market quotations are not readily
available may be based upon current market prices of securities which are
comparable in coupon, rating and maturity or an appropriate matrix
utilizing similar factors;
23
<PAGE> 25
(5) The fair value of short term United States Government obligations and
other debt securities will be determined on an amortized cost basis; and
(6) The value of other assets, including restricted and not readily marketable
securities, will be determined in good faith at fair value under
procedures established by and under the general supervision of the
Trustees.
(7) Assets and liabilities initially expressed in foreign currencies will be
converted into U.S. dollars using a method of determining a rate of
exchange in accordance with policies established by the Board of Trustees.
The Fund normally calculates its net asset value as of the close of business of
the New York Stock Exchange. Trading in securities on European and Far Eastern
securities exchanges or in other foreign markets is normally completed on days
(such as on week-ends) and at times when the New York Stock Exchange is not open
for business. In addition, trading in such international markets may not take
place on days when the New York Stock Exchange is open for business. Because of
the different trading days or hours in the various foreign markets, the
calculation of the Fund's net asset value may not take place contemporaneously
with the determination of the closing prices of some the Fund's foreign
securities on the particular foreign exchanges or in other foreign markets in
which those securities are traded. The Fund follows the practice of converting
closing market prices denominated in foreign currency to U.S. dollars using the
noon Reuters currency exchange rates, a practice widely used in the industry
which tends to reduce pricing differences between the close of the foreign
markets and the close of business on the New York Stock Exchange.
The Fund expects to follow its standard procedures in valuing foreign securities
even though there may be interim market developments which could have an effect
on the Fund's net asset value. However, should events occur which could
materially or significantly affect the valuation of such securities between the
time when their closing prices are determined in the usual manner and the time
the Fund's net asset value is calculated, the Fund may, in the discretion of the
Board of Trustees and in the absence of specific regulatory requirements, elect
to value these securities at fair value as determined in good faith by the Board
of Trustees.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
DISTRIBUTIONS. The Fund pays dividends from net investment income, usually at
the end of December. Realized capital gains are determined for the 12 month
period ended October 31, and may be distributed at any time after that date. All
dividends and distributions are reinvested automatically in additional shares of
the Fund, unless you notify the transfer agent that you desire to receive cash
distributions. The reinvestment price is the net asset value on the ex-dividend
date.
24
<PAGE> 26
The net asset value per share on the ex-dividend date is calculated by reducing
the normal net asset value by the amount of the distribution. Any distribution
paid shortly after a purchase of shares will be fully taxable. After October 31,
you may request information on projected capital gains distributions and in mid-
December information will be available on projected dividend amounts. Please
call (800) 488-4191 for this information and for record and payment dates.
TAXES. The Fund intends to qualify as a "regulated investment company" under
Subchapter M of the Federal Internal Revenue Code of 1986, and will distribute
substantially all net investment income and net realized capital gains as
dividends. Management expects that the Fund will not incur any significant
Federal income tax liability. Should the Fund fail to distribute the required
minimum amounts, it would be subject to a non-deductible 4% excise tax on
certain undistributed taxable income and realized capital gains.
By January 31 of each year, the Fund will provide information on the proper
classification of any net investment income and capital gains distributions, and
the amounts of any returns of capital or other special reclassifications.
Shareholders subject to Federal income taxation must report all distributions as
income, even if reinvested, and states may also tax distributions.
This discussion about taxes is an abbreviated summary of the provisions of the
Federal Internal Revenue Code and Regulations. For more information, see the
section entitled "Additional Tax Information" in the Statement of Additional
Information. These provisions are subject to change by legislative or
administrative action. Shareholders should consult their own tax advisors for
more detailed information concerning federal, state and local income taxation of
investment company distributions in their particular circumstances.
OTHER INFORMATION
SIGNIFICANCE OF FUND NAMES. The name "Longleaf", derived from the longleaf
pine, a majestic, sturdy tree indigenous to the southeastern United States,
represents the qualities of strength and endurance. A second element of the name
is the word "Partners." In selecting portfolio investments, Southeastern seeks
corporate managers who would make exemplary long-term business partners. They
should be properly incented, ownership vested, honest, shareholder oriented,
operationally competent individuals who are capable of allocating corporate
resources intelligently. The Longleaf Partners Funds endeavor to be supportive
long-term "partners" with management of the companies in the portfolios.
Correspondingly, Southeastern's own partners, other personnel, and relatives,
are major investors in the Funds. Management considers itself a "partner" with
Fund shareholders in seeking long-term capital growth. The Funds desire loyal,
long-term investors as shareholders who view themselves as "partners" with Fund
management.
25
<PAGE> 27
CODE OF ETHICS. The Longleaf Partners Funds and Southeastern Asset Management,
Inc. have adopted a Code of Ethics which requires all employees to limit their
investments in publicly offered equity securities to shares of the Longleaf
Partners Funds unless prior clearance is granted for other personal securities
transactions. All employees must report their personal securities transactions
at the end of each quarter. Any material violation of the Code of Ethics is
reported to the Board of the Funds. The Board also reviews the administration of
the Code of Ethics on an annual basis.
Except for certain types of investments not appropriate for the Funds, the
independent Trustees of the Funds must also obtain clearance before making
personal securities investments to avoid conflicts of interest with purchases
and sales by the Funds. They have also adopted a policy requiring each
independent Trustee to invest in the Funds an amount at least equal to their
Trustees' fees.
PORTFOLIO BROKERAGE. Southeastern makes decisions to buy or sell investment
securities for all of the Longleaf Partners Funds under the supervision of the
Board of Trustees. Southeastern has authority to place orders with selected
brokerage firms for the Funds' investment portfolio transactions. Southeastern
uses its best efforts to obtain the most favorable price and execution, as more
fully described in the Statement of Additional Information. The Funds may pay
higher commissions to certain brokers for particular transactions than might be
charged by a different broker if Southeastern believes that the most favorable
price and execution may be obtained by doing so.
The Board of Trustees has authorized Southeastern to consider research and other
investment information provided by a brokerage firm, its sales of shares of the
Funds, and the supplying of other economic benefits which reduce the Funds'
expenses as factors in selecting brokerage firms qualified to execute portfolio
transactions for the Funds. The Funds may pay higher commissions to secure
research and investment services and other specific benefits, subject to review
by the Board of Trustees. Sales of Fund shares by a broker are one factor among
others that Southeastern considers in allocating portfolio transactions, but
higher commissions will not be paid solely for sales of Fund shares. The Funds
are not committed to execute portfolio transactions through any particular
brokerage firms which provide investment research information, or which sell
shares of the Funds or provide other benefits. The Board of Trustees monitors
executions of portfolio transactions at least quarterly.
INVESTMENT PERFORMANCE INFORMATION. The International Fund may publish its
total returns from time to time in advertisements and in communications to
shareholders. Performance is calculated using an industry standardized formula,
as more fully described in the Statement of Additional Information. Total return
information will include the average annual compounded rate of return for the
one, five, and ten year periods (or since inception) ended at the close of the
most recent calendar quarter. The Fund may also advertise or provide aggregate
and
26
<PAGE> 28
average total return information for different periods of time, such as the
latest calendar quarter or for the calendar year-to-date. Total return includes
changes in net assets value per share and reinvestment in additional shares of
any dividends from net investment income or other distributions.
Investment results will fluctuate over time, and an investment may be worth more
or less than the purchase price, depending on the timing of the investment and
stock market performance. Any presentation of total return for any prior periods
is not intended to represent future total returns.
The Fund may compare its performance to that of widely recognized unmanaged
stock market indices as well as other more specialized indices. The Fund may
also compare its performance with that of other mutual funds having similar
investment objectives and with the industry as a whole, as determined by outside
services such as Lipper Analytical Services, Inc., CDA Technologies,
Morningstar, Inc., and The Value Line Mutual Fund Survey. The Fund may also
provide information on relative rankings as published in such newspapers and
magazines as The Wall Street Journal, Barron's, Forbes, Business Week, Money,
Financial World, and other similar publications.
STATE OF ORGANIZATION. Longleaf Partners Funds Trust was organized as a
Massachusetts business trust on November 26, 1986. The International Fund is the
fourth series. Each series may issue an unlimited number of shares of beneficial
interest, all of which are of one class and have equal rights as to voting,
redemption, dividends and liquidation. Upon receipt of payment for shares, all
shares issued and outstanding are fully paid and nonassessable and are
redeemable at the net asset value per share at the option of shareholders as
more fully described in the section entitled "How to Redeem Shares". Shares have
no preemptive or conversion rights. For information on limitation of liability
and indemnification of Shareholders, Trustees and other affiliated parties, see
the section in the Statement of Additional Information entitled "Limitation of
Liability of Shareholders, Trustees and Others". The registered address in the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts is Two Oliver Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
A mutual fund which is a Massachusetts business trust is not required by state
law to hold annual meetings of shareholders. Accordingly, shareholders' meetings
must be held only when required by the Investment Company Act of 1940. The Board
of Trustees will determine whether annual meetings will be held in the future
when not specifically required.
EXCEPTIONS TO INVESTMENT MINIMUM. The minimum initial purchase requirement is
not applicable to Trustees or officers of the Fund or to directors, officers or
employees of the Investment Counsel. These persons and their relatives may open
an account with a minimum initial investment of $1,000. Members of the immediate
families of shareholders having invested at least $250,000 in one Fund may open
an account with a minimum initial investment of $5,000 in the same
27
<PAGE> 29
Fund. Personnel of clients having private accounts of at least $2,000,000 may
also open Fund accounts with a minimum initial investment of $5,000. Any
investor seeking one of the above exceptions must obtain prior approval of Fund
management.
YEAR 2000 ISSUES. Southeastern has focused on the year 2000 computer conversion
issue and management believes that there should be a smooth transition on the
part of suppliers of services to the Longleaf Partners Funds. The portfolio
accounting system used by Southeastern for its advisory clients is supplied by a
publicly traded company, which has stated in a release that the year 2000
problem has been overcome by re-engineering its computer system to handle the
century date. The fund accounting software used by the Funds is supplied by an
outside vendor, and that system has been running on four-digit year information
since 1996. The Funds' custodian bank, transfer agent, and outside pricing
services, all of which have a significant presence in the mutual fund industry,
have reported that the necessary conversion process is in progress, and they
appear to have dedicated the appropriate level of resources to solve the
problem. However, there can be no assurance that these steps will be sufficient
to avoid any adverse impact on the Fund, nor can there be any assurance that the
Year 2000 issue will not have an adverse impact on the Fund's investments or on
global markets or economies generally.
28
<PAGE> 30
INVESTMENT COUNSEL
Southeastern Asset Management, Inc.
6410 Poplar Avenue, Suite 900
Memphis, TN 38119
TRANSFER AND DIVIDEND AGENT
National Financial Data Services ("NFDS")
P.O. Box 419929
Kansas City, MO 64141-6929
CUSTODIAN
State Street Bank & Trust Company, Boston, MA
SPECIAL LEGAL COUNSEL
Dechert Price & Rhoads, Washington, DC
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Boston, MA
<PAGE> 31
LONGLEAF
PARTNERS
FUNDS
LOGO
MANAGED BY:
SOUTHEASTERN ASSET MANAGEMENT, INC.
6410 POPLAR AVE.
SUITE 900
MEMPHIS, TN 38119
Fund Information Requests
(800) 445-9469
Shareholder Account Inquiries
(800) 488-4191
Inquiries About Fund Operations
(901) 761-2474
No person has been authorized to give any further information or make any
representations other than those contained in this Prospectus. If given or made,
such other information or representations must not be relied upon as having been
authorized by the Fund, Investment Counsel, or Administrator. This Prospectus
does not constitute an offering in any state where such an offering may not be
lawfully made.
<PAGE> 32
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
OCTOBER 24, 1998
---------------------
LONGLEAF PARTNERS INTERNATIONAL FUND
A Series of
LONGLEAF PARTNERS FUNDS TRUST
LOGO TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
- - Introduction.............................................. 2
- - Additional Information About Investment Objectives and
Policies
Investment Objective.................................... 2
General Investment Policy............................... 2
- - Non-Diversification....................................... 3
- - Fundamental Investment Restrictions....................... 3
- - Non-Fundamental Investment Restrictions................... 4
- - Additional Information About Types of Investments and
Investment Techniques
Repurchase Agreements................................... 5
Warrants................................................ 6
Real Estate Investment Trusts........................... 6
Futures Contracts....................................... 6
Options on Securities and Stock Indices................. 6
Foreign Currency Contracts.............................. 8
Lending of Portfolio Securities......................... 9
- - Management of the Fund.................................... 9
- - Compensation Table........................................ 10
- - Control Persons and Principal Holders of Securities....... 11
- - Investment Advisory Services.............................. 11
- - Investment Performance and Total Return................... 11
- - Other Management Related Services......................... 12
- - Terms of Agreements....................................... 13
- - Additional Tax Information................................ 13
- - Allocation of Brokerage Commissions....................... 15
- - Distribution of Fund Shares............................... 16
- - Redemption of Fund Shares................................. 16
- - Custodian of Fund Assets.................................. 17
- - Independent Certified Public Accountants.................. 17
- - Legal Counsel............................................. 17
- - Limitation of Liability................................... 17
- - Table of Bond and Preferred Stock Ratings................. 18
</TABLE>
MANAGED BY
SOUTHEASTERN ASSET MANAGEMENT, INC.
6410 POPLAR AVENUE; SUITE 900
MEMPHIS, TN 38119
---------------------
THIS STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION, DATED OCTOBER 24, 1998, IS NOT A
PROSPECTUS. IT SHOULD BE READ IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE PROSPECTUS OF LONGLEAF
PARTNERS FUNDS TRUST, ALSO DATED OCTOBER 24, 1998, WHICH MAY BE OBTAINED WITHOUT
CHARGE UPON REQUEST MADE TO SOUTHEASTERN ASSET MANAGEMENT, INC.
TELEPHONE (800) 445-9469; (901) 761-2474.
<PAGE> 33
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
---------------------
LONGLEAF PARTNERS INTERNATIONAL FUND
A Series of Longleaf Partners Funds Trust
---------------------
INTRODUCTION
Longleaf Partners International Fund (the "International Fund" or the "Fund") is
a series or portfolio of Longleaf Partners Funds Trust, a Massachusetts business
trust which has three other portfolios -- Longleaf Partners Fund, Longleaf
Partners Small-Cap Fund, and Longleaf Partners Realty Fund. Each of these
portfolios is operated as a separate mutual fund and each has its own particular
investment objective.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT INVESTMENT
OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
Certain investment restrictions or policies must be adopted as "fundamental"
under the current requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission. Those
investment objectives and restrictions classified as fundamental cannot be
changed without approval of a majority of the outstanding voting securities.
Under the Investment Company Act of 1940, "approval of a majority of the
outstanding voting securities" means the affirmative vote of the lesser of (1)
more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the particular Fund or (2) 67% or
more of the shares present at a shareholders' meeting if more than 50% of the
outstanding shares are represented at the meeting in person or by proxy.
To the extent not designated as fundamental, the investment objective, other
investment policies and restrictions, the Funds' investment philosophy, the
discussion of types of securities in which the Funds may invest and the
investment techniques used by each Fund may be changed by approval of the Board
of Trustees.
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
The investment objective of the International Fund is to seek long-term capital
growth primarily through investments in the equity securities of international
or foreign issuers.
GENERAL INVESTMENT POLICY
Under normal circumstances, the International Fund will invest at least 65% of
total assets in the equity securities of issuers domiciled or operating
primarily in at least three countries other than the United States. A company
will be considered to be an international or foreign issuer if it is organized
or headquartered outside the United States. In addition, an issuer will be
considered to be international or foreign if, regardless of where organized, its
principal business activities are outside the United States. Such an issuer must
have at least 50% of its assets located outside the United States or earn at
least 50% of its gross income outside the United States.
Under the Investment Company Act of 1940, (the "Investment Company Act"), there
is no requirement that a fund's investment objective or general investment
policy be classified as fundamental. As a result, the International Fund's
investment objective and general investment policy are not fundamental and may
be changed by the Fund's Trustees without prior approval of shareholders.
2
<PAGE> 34
NON-DIVERSIFICATION
The Fund is non-diversified under the provisions of the Investment Company Act
of 1940. Although the Fund expects to comply with the diversification standards
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, which are summarized in the Prospectus,
compliance with these standards is not a fundamental policy.
FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS
The International Fund has adopted the following investment restrictions as
fundamental. The text of the fundamental restriction is set forth in quotation
marks and bold type; any comments following these fundamental restrictions are
explanatory only and are not fundamental.
- - INDUSTRY CONCENTRATION. "THE FUND WILL NOT PURCHASE ANY SECURITY WHICH WOULD
CAUSE THE FUND TO CONCENTRATE ITS INVESTMENTS IN THE SECURITIES OF ISSUERS
PRIMARILY ENGAGED IN ANY ONE INDUSTRY EXCEPT AS PERMITTED BY THE SECURITIES
AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION.
Comment. The present position of the staff of the Division of Investment
Management of the Securities and Exchange Commission is that a mutual fund
will be deemed to have concentrated its investments in a particular industry
if it invests 25% or more of its total assets, exclusive of cash and U.S.
Government securities, in securities of companies in any single industry. The
Fund will comply with this position but will be able to use a different
percentage of assets without seeking shareholder approval if the SEC should
subsequently allow investment of a larger percentage of assets in a single
industry. Such a change will not be made without providing prior notice to
shareholders.
For purposes of defining what constitutes a single industry for purposes of this
restriction, the Fund will use the SIC Industry Code definitions for industries,
as set forth in the latest edition of the Securities & Exchange Commission
publication entitled "Directory of Companies Required to File Annual Reports
with the Securities & Exchange Commission" or other publicly available
information. Industry category groupings shown in the Funds' printed reports
sent quarterly to shareholders may contain more than one SIC Industry Code, and
these broader industry groupings are intended to be functionally descriptive
presentations rather than being limited to a single SIC industry category.
- - SENIOR SECURITIES. "THE FUND MAY NOT ISSUE SENIOR SECURITIES, EXCEPT AS
PERMITTED UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940 OR ANY RULE, ORDER OR
INTERPRETATION UNDER THE ACT."
Comment. Generally, a senior security is an obligation of a Fund which takes
precedence over the claims of fund shareholders. The Investment Company Act
generally prohibits a fund from issuing senior securities, with limited
exceptions. Under SEC staff interpretations, funds may incur certain
obligations (for example, to deliver a foreign currency at a future date under
a forward foreign currency contract) which otherwise might be deemed to create
a senior security, provided the fund maintains a segregated account containing
liquid securities having a value equal to the future obligation.
- - BORROWING. "THE FUND MAY NOT BORROW MONEY, EXCEPT AS PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE
LAW."
Comment. In general, a fund may not borrow money, except that (i) a fund may
borrow from banks (as defined in the Investment Company Act) in amounts up to
33 1/3% of its total assets (including the amount borrowed) less liabilities
(other than borrowings), (ii) a fund may borrow up to 5% of its total assets
for temporary or emergency purposes, (iii) a fund may obtain such short-term
credit as may be necessary for the clearance of purchases and sales of
portfolio securities, and (iv) a fund may not pledge its assets other than to
secure such borrowings or, to the extent permitted by the Fund's investment
policies as set forth
3
<PAGE> 35
in its current prospectus and statement of additional information, in
connection with hedging transactions, short sales, when-issued and forward
commitment transactions and similar investment strategies.
- - UNDERWRITING. "THE FUND MAY NOT ACT AS AN UNDERWRITER OF SECURITIES ISSUED BY
OTHERS, EXCEPT INSOFAR AS THE FUND MAY BE DEEMED AN UNDERWRITER IN CONNECTION
WITH THE DISPOSITION OF PORTFOLIO SECURITIES."
Comment. Generally a mutual fund may not be an underwriter of securities
issued by others. However, the exception to this restriction enables the Fund
to sell securities held in its portfolio, usually securities which were
acquired in unregistered or "restricted" form, even though it otherwise might
technically be classified as an underwriter under the Federal securities laws
in making such sales.
- - COMMODITIES. "THE FUND MAY NOT PURCHASE OR SELL COMMODITIES OR COMMODITY
CONTRACTS UNLESS ACQUIRED AS A RESULT OF OWNERSHIP OF SECURITIES OR OTHER
INSTRUMENTS ISSUED BY PERSONS THAT PURCHASE OR SELL COMMODITIES OR COMMODITIES
CONTRACTS, BUT THIS RESTRICTION SHALL NOT PREVENT THE FUND FROM PURCHASING,
SELLING AND ENTERING INTO FINANCIAL FUTURES CONTRACTS (INCLUDING FUTURES
CONTRACTS ON INDICES OF SECURITIES, INTEREST RATES AND CURRENCIES), OPTIONS ON
FINANCIAL FUTURES CONTRACTS, WARRANTS, SWAPS, FORWARD CONTRACTS, FOREIGN
CURRENCY SPOT AND FORWARD CONTRACTS, OR OTHER DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS THAT ARE
NOT RELATED TO PHYSICAL COMMODITIES."
Comment. The Fund has the ability to purchase and sell (write) put and call
options and to enter into futures contracts and options on futures contracts
for hedging and risk management and for other non-hedging purposes. Examples
of non-hedging risk management strategies include increasing a Fund's exposure
to the equity markets of particular countries by purchasing futures contracts
on the stock indices of those countries and effectively increasing the
duration of a bond portfolio by purchasing futures contracts on fixed income
securities. Hedging and risk management techniques, unlike other non-hedging
derivative strategies, are not intended to be speculative but, like all
leveraged transactions, involve the possibility of losses as well as gains
that could be greater than the purchase and sale of the underlying securities.
- - LENDING. "THE FUND MAY NOT MAKE LOANS TO OTHER PERSONS EXCEPT THROUGH THE
LENDING OF SECURITIES HELD BY IT AS PERMITTED BY APPLICABLE LAW, THROUGH THE
USE OF REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS, AND BY THE PURCHASE OF DEBT SECURITIES, ALL IN
ACCORDANCE WITH ITS INVESTMENT POLICIES."
- - REAL ESTATE. "THE FUND MAY NOT PURCHASE OR SELL REAL ESTATE, EXCEPT THAT THE
FUND MAY INVEST IN SECURITIES OF COMPANIES THAT DEAL IN REAL ESTATE OR ARE
ENGAGED IN THE REAL ESTATE BUSINESS, INCLUDING REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS,
AND SECURITIES SECURED BY REAL ESTATE OR INTERESTS THEREIN AND THE FUND MAY
HOLD AND SELL REAL ESTATE ACQUIRED THROUGH DEFAULT, LIQUIDATION, OR OTHER
DISTRIBUTIONS OF AN INTEREST IN REAL ESTATE AS A RESULT OF THE FUND'S
OWNERSHIP OF SUCH SECURITIES."
NON-FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS
The following investment restrictions are non-fundamental, and may be changed at
the discretion of the Board of Trustees. Except as specifically authorized, the
Fund may not:
- - Purchase restricted or "illiquid" securities, including repurchase agreements
maturing in more than seven days, if as a result, more than 15% of the Fund's
net assets would then be invested in such securities (excluding securities
which are eligible for resale pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act
of 1933);
4
<PAGE> 36
- - Acquire or retain securities of any investment company, except that the Fund
may (a) acquire securities of investment companies up to the limits permitted
by Sec. 12(d)(l) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (for each holding, 5%
of the Fund's total assets, 3% of the company's voting stock, with not more
than 10% of the Fund's total assets invested in all such investment companies)
provided such acquisitions are in the open market and there is no commission
or profit to a dealer or sponsor other than the customary broker's commission,
and (b) may acquire securities of any investment company as part of a merger,
consolidation or similar transaction;
- - Make short sales whereby the dollar amount of short sales at any one time
would exceed 25% of the net assets of the Fund, and the value of securities of
any one issuer in which the Fund is short would exceed the lessor of 5% of the
value of the Fund's net assets or 5% of the securities of any class of any
issuer; provided that the Fund maintains collateral in a segregated account
consisting of cash or liquid securities with a value equal to the current
market value of the shorted securities, which is marked to market daily. If
the Fund owns an equal amount of such securities or securities convertible
into or exchangeable for, without payment of any further consideration,
securities of the same issuer as, and equal in amount to, the securities sold
short (which sales are commonly referred to as "short sales against the box"),
such restrictions shall not apply;
- - Invest in puts, calls, straddles, spreads or any combination thereof, except
that the Fund may (a) purchase and sell put and call options on securities and
securities indexes, and (b) write covered put and call options on securities
and securities indexes and combinations thereof; provided that the securities
underlying such options are within the investment policies of the Fund and the
value of the underlying securities on which options may be written at any one
time does not exceed 25% of total assets;
- - Invest in oil, gas or other mineral exploration programs, development programs
or leases, except that the Fund may purchase securities of companies engaging
in whole or in part in such activities;
- - Pledge, mortgage or hypothecate its assets except in connection with permitted
borrowings;
- - Purchase securities on margin, except short-term credits as are necessary for
the purchase and sale of securities, provided that the deposit or payment of
initial or variation margin in connection with futures contracts or related
options will not be deemed to be a purchase on margin.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT TYPES OF INVESTMENTS
AND INVESTMENT TECHNIQUES
Repurchase Agreements. An acceptable investment for cash reserves, a repurchase
agreement is an instrument under which an investor such as the Fund purchases
U.S. Government securities or other securities from a vendor, with an agreement
by the vendor to repurchase the security at the same price, plus interest at a
specified rate. In such a case, the security is held by the Fund, in effect, as
collateral for the repurchase obligation. Repurchase agreements may be entered
into with member banks of the Federal Reserve System or "primary dealers" (as
designated by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York) in United States Government
securities. Repurchase agreements usually have a short duration, often less than
one week. In entering into the repurchase agreement for the Fund, the Investment
Counsel will evaluate and monitor the credit worthiness of the vendor. In the
event that a vendor should default on its repurchase obligation, the Fund might
suffer a loss to the extent that the proceeds from the sale of the collateral
were less than the repurchase price. If the vendor becomes bankrupt, the Fund
might be delayed, or may incur costs or possible losses of principal and income,
in selling the collateral.
5
<PAGE> 37
Warrants. The Fund may invest in warrants for the purchase of equity securities
at a specific price for a stated period of time. Warrants may be considered more
speculative than other types of investments in that they do not entitle a holder
to dividends or voting rights for the securities which may be purchased nor do
they represent any rights in the assets of the issuing company. The value of a
warrant does not necessarily change with the value of the underlying securities
and a warrant ceases to have value if it is not exercised prior to the
expiration date.
Real Estate Investment Trusts. REITs are sometimes described as equity REITs,
mortgage REITs and hybrid REITs. An equity REIT invests primarily in the fee
ownership or leasehold ownership of land and buildings and derives its income
primarily from rental income. An equity REIT may also realize capital gains (or
losses) by selling real estate properties in its portfolio that have appreciated
(or depreciated) in value. A mortgage REIT invests primarily in mortgages on
real estate, which may secure construction, development or long-term loans. A
mortgage REIT generally derives its income primarily from interest payments on
the credit it has extended. A hybrid REIT combines the characteristics of equity
REITs and mortgage REITs, generally by holding both ownership interests and
mortgage interests in real estate.
Equity REITs may be further characterized as operating companies or financing
companies. To the extent that an equity REIT provides operational and management
expertise to the properties held in its portfolio, the REIT generally exercises
some degree of control over the number and identity of tenants, the terms of
their tenancies, the acquisition, construction, repair and maintenance of
properties and other operational issues. A mortgage REIT or an equity REIT that
provides financing rather than operational and management expertise to the
properties in its portfolio will generally not have control over the operations
that are conducted on the real estate in which the REIT has an interest.
Futures Contracts. Primarily for hedging purposes, the Fund may purchase and
sell financial futures contracts. Although some financial futures contracts call
for making or taking delivery of the underlying securities, in most cases these
obligations are closed out before the settlement date. The closing of a
contractual obligation is accomplished by purchasing or selling an identical
offsetting futures contract. Other financial futures contracts by their terms
call for cash settlements.
The Fund may also buy and sell index futures contracts with respect to any stock
or bond index traded on a recognized stock exchange or board of trade. An index
futures contract is a contract to buy or sell units of an index at a specified
future date at a price agreed upon when the contract is made. The stock index
futures contract specifies that no delivery of the actual stocks making up the
index will take place. Instead, settlement in cash must occur upon the
termination of the contract, with the settlement being the difference between
the contract price and the actual level of the stock index at the expiration of
the contract.
At the time the Fund purchases a futures contract, an amount of liquid
securities equal to the market value of the futures contract will be deposited
in a segregated account with the Fund's Custodian. When writing a futures
contract, the Fund will maintain with the Custodian similar liquid assets that,
when added to the amounts deposited with a futures commission merchant or broker
as margin, are equal to the market value of the instruments underlying the
contract. Alternatively, the Fund may "cover" the position by owning the
instruments underlying the contract (or, in the case of an index futures
contract, a portfolio with a volatility substantially similar to that of the
index on which the futures contract is based), or holding a call option
permitting the Fund to purchase the same futures contract at a price no higher
than the price of the contract written by the Fund (or at a higher price if the
difference is maintained in liquid assets with the Custodian).
Options on Securities and Stock Indices. The Fund may write covered put and
call options and purchase put and call options on securities or stock indices.
An option on a security is a contract that gives the purchaser
6
<PAGE> 38
of the option, in return for the premium paid, the right to buy a specified
security (in the case of a call option) or to sell a specified security (in the
case of a put option) from or to the writer of the option at a designated price
during the term of the option. An option on a securities index gives the
purchaser of the option, in return for the premium paid, the right to receive
from the seller cash equal to the difference between the closing price of the
index and the exercise price of the option.
The Fund may write a call or put option only if the option is "covered." A call
option on a security written by the Fund is covered if the Fund owns the
underlying security subject to the call, has an absolute and immediate right to
acquire that security without additional cash consideration (or for additional
cash consideration held in a segregated account by its Custodian) upon
conversion or exchange of other securities held in its portfolio, or the call is
otherwise covered with assets held in a segregated account. A call option on a
security is also covered if the Fund holds a call on the same security and in
the same principal amount as the call written where the exercise price of the
call held (a) is equal to or less than the exercise price of the call written or
(b) is greater than the exercise price of the call written if the difference is
maintained by the Fund in cash, liquid securities or money market instruments in
a segregated account with its Custodian. A put option on a security written by
the Fund is covered if the Fund maintains similar liquid assets with a value
equal to the exercise price in a segregated account with its Custodian, or holds
a put on the same security and in the same principal amount as the put written
where the exercise price of the put held is equal to or greater than the
exercise price of the put written.
The Fund may cover call options on stock indices through a segregated account or
by owning securities whose price changes, in the opinion of the Investment
Counsel, are expected to be similar to those of the index, or in such other
manner as may be in accordance with the rules of the exchange on which the
option is traded and applicable laws and regulations. Nevertheless, where the
Fund covers a call option on a stock index through ownership of securities, such
securities may not match the composition of the index. In that event, the Fund
will not be fully covered and could be subject to risk of loss in the event of
adverse changes in the value of the index. The Fund may cover put options on
stock indices by segregating assets equal to the option's exercise price, or in
such other manner as may be in accordance with the rules of the exchange on
which the option is traded and applicable laws and regulations.
The Fund will receive a premium from writing a put or call option, which
increases its gross income in the event the option expires unexercised or is
closed out at a profit. If the value of a security or an index on which the Fund
has written a call option falls or remains the same, the Fund will realize a
profit in the form of the premium received (less transaction costs) that could
offset all or a portion of any decline in the value of the portfolio securities
being hedged. If the value of the underlying security or index rises, however,
the Fund will realize a loss in its call option position, which will reduce the
benefit of any unrealized appreciation in the Fund's stock investments. By
writing a put option, the Fund assumes the risk of a decline in the underlying
security or index. To the extent that the price changes of the portfolio
securities being hedged correlate with changes in the value of the underlying
security or index, writing covered put options on securities or indices will
increase the Fund's losses in the event of a market decline, although such
losses will be offset in part by the premium received for writing the option.
The Fund may also purchase put options to hedge its investments against a
decline in value. By purchasing a put option, the Fund will seek to offset a
decline in the value of the portfolio securities being hedged through
appreciation of the put option. If the value of the Fund's investments does not
decline as anticipated, or if the value of the option does not increase, the
Fund's loss will be limited to the premium paid for the option plus related
transaction costs. The success of this strategy will depend, in part, on the
accuracy of the
7
<PAGE> 39
correlation between the changes in value of the underlying security or index and
the changes in value of the Fund's security holdings being hedged.
The Fund may purchase call options on individual securities to hedge against an
increase in the price of securities that the Fund anticipates purchasing in the
future. Similarly, the Fund may purchase call options to attempt to reduce the
risk of missing a broad market advance, or an advance in an industry or market
segment, at a time when the Fund holds uninvested cash or short-term debt
securities awaiting investment. When purchasing call options, the Fund will bear
the risk of losing all or a portion of the premium paid if the value of the
underlying security or index does not rise.
There can be no assurance that a liquid market will exist when the Fund seeks to
close out an option position. Trading could be interrupted, for example, because
of supply and demand imbalances arising from a lack of either buyers or sellers,
or the options exchange could suspend trading after the price has risen or
fallen more than the maximum specified by the exchange. Although the Fund may be
able to offset to some extent any adverse effects of being unable to liquidate
an option position, it may experience losses in some cases as a result of such
inability.
Foreign Currency Contracts. As a method of hedging against foreign currency
exchange rate risks, the Fund may enter into forward foreign currency exchange
contracts and foreign currency futures contracts, as well as purchase put or
call options on foreign currencies, as described below. The Fund may also
conduct foreign currency exchange transactions on a spot (i.e., cash) basis at
the spot rate prevailing in the foreign currency exchange market.
The Fund may enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts ("forward
contracts") to attempt to minimize the risk from adverse changes in the
relationship between the U.S. dollar and foreign currencies. A forward contract
is an obligation to purchase or sell a specific currency for an agreed price at
a future date which is individually negotiated and privately traded by currency
traders and their customers. The Fund may enter into a forward contract, for
example, when it enters into a contract for the purchase or sale of a security
denominated in a foreign currency in order to "lock in" the U.S. dollar price of
the security. In addition, for example, when Southeastern believes that a
foreign currency may suffer or enjoy a substantial movement against another
currency, a Fund may enter into a forward contract to sell an amount of the
former foreign currency approximating the value of some or all of its portfolio
securities denominated in such foreign currency. This second investment practice
is generally referred to as "cross-hedging." Because an amount of the Fund's
assets equal to the amount of the purchase will be held aside or segregated to
be used to pay for the commitment, the Fund will always have cash, cash
equivalents or high quality liquid securities available sufficient to cover any
commitments under these contracts or to limit any potential risk. The segregated
account will be marked-to-market on a daily basis. While these contracts are not
presently regulated by the Commodity Future Trading Commission ("CFTC"), the
CFTC may in the future assert authority to regulate forward contracts. In such
event, the Fund's ability to utilize forward contracts in the manner set forth
above may be restricted. Forward contracts may limit potential gain from a
positive change in the relationship between the U.S. dollar and foreign
currencies. Unanticipated changes in currency prices may result in poorer
overall performance for the Fund than if it had not engaged in such contracts.
The Fund may purchase and write put and call options on foreign currencies for
the purpose of protecting against declines in the dollar value of foreign
portfolio securities and against increases in the dollar cost of foreign
securities to be acquired. As with other kinds of options, however, the writing
of an option on foreign currency will constitute only a partial hedge, up to the
amount of the premium received, and the Fund could be required to purchase or
sell foreign currencies at disadvantageous exchange rates, thereby
8
<PAGE> 40
incurring losses. The purchase of an option on foreign currency may constitute
an effective hedge against fluctuation in exchange rates although, in the event
of rate movements adverse to the Fund's position, the Fund may forfeit the
entire amount of the premium plus related transaction costs.
The Fund may enter into exchange-traded contracts for the purchase or sale for
future delivery of foreign currencies ("foreign currency futures"). This
investment technique may be used to hedge against anticipated future changes in
exchange rates which otherwise might adversely affect the value of the
particular Fund's portfolio securities or adversely affect the prices of
securities that the Fund intends to purchase at a later date. The successful use
of currency futures will usually depend on the Investment Counsel's ability to
forecast currency exchange rate movements correctly. Should exchange rates move
in an unexpected manner, the Fund may not achieve the anticipated benefits of
foreign currency futures or may realize losses.
Lending of Portfolio Securities. The Funds may from time to time lend portfolio
securities to brokers or dealers, banks and other institutional investors and
receive collateral in the form of United States Government obligations or money
market funds. Under current practices, the loan collateral must be maintained at
all times in an amount equal to at least 100% of the current market value of the
loaned securities, and will not be used to leverage the portfolio. In
determining whether to lend securities to a particular broker/dealer or
financial institution, Southeastern will consider all relevant facts and
circumstances, including the credit-worthiness of the broker or financial
institution. If the borrower should fail to return the loaned securities, the
particular Fund could use the collateral to acquire replacement securities, but
could be deprived of immediate access to such assets for the period prior to
such replacement. The Fund may pay reasonable finders, administrative and
custodial fees in connection with such a loan of securities. The Fund will not
lend portfolio securities in excess of one-third of the value of total assets,
nor will the Fund lend portfolio securities to any officer, director, trustee,
employee of affiliate of the Funds or Southeastern.
MANAGEMENT OF THE FUND
The Fund is supervised by its Board of Trustees, which implements policies
through the Fund's principal executive officers. Day to day portfolio management
and fund administration is provided by Southeastern Asset Management, Inc.
("Southeastern") in its capacity as Investment Counsel and as Fund Administrator
under contracts which must be renewed at periodic intervals, as required by the
Investment Company Act of 1940. The names, principal occupations during at least
the past five years and other information about members of the Board of Trustees
and the Fund executive officers are set forth in the Prospectus on pages 17 and
18.
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<PAGE> 41
The following table provides information on the schedule of Trustees' fees to be
paid by all series of Longleaf Partners Funds Trust for the fiscal year ending
December 31, 1998.
COMPENSATION TABLE
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AGGREGATE COMPENSATION FROM EACH FUND TOTAL
NAME OF PERSON; --------------------------------------------- COMPENSATION
POSITION (AGE) PARTNERS REALTY SMALL-CAP INTERNATIONAL FROM ALL
ADDRESS FUND FUND FUND FUND** FUNDS***
--------------- -------- ------ --------- ------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
O. Mason Hawkins*
Chairman of the Board and Chief
Executive Officer, (50)...... None None None None None
Chadwick H. Carpenter, Jr.
Trustee (48)
14 Oak Park; Bedford, MA 01730
10660 East Tamarisk Way;
Scottsdale, AZ 85262............ $15,000 $7,500 $7,500 $1,945.20 $31,945.20
Daniel W. Connell, Jr.
Trustee (50)
One Stadium Place
Jacksonville, FL 32202.......... $15,000 $7,500 $7,500 $1,945.20 $31,945.20
Steven N. Melnyk
Trustee (51)
1535 The Greens Way
Jacksonville Beach, FL 32250.... $15,000 $7,500 $7,500 $1,945.20 $31,945.20
C. Barham Ray
Trustee (51)
845 Crossover Lane
Ste. 140
Memphis, TN 38117............... $15,000 $7,500 $7,500 $1,945.20 $31,945.20
W. Reid Sanders*
Trustee and President (49)...... None None None None None
</TABLE>
- ---------------
* Trustee is an "interested" person because of employment by Southeastern as
Investment Counsel. The "interested" Trustees and all executive officers of
the Fund are officers or employees of Southeastern, which pays their salaries
and other employee benefits. Its address is 6410 Poplar Ave., Ste. 900,
Memphis, TN 38119.
** Trustees fees for the International Fund are $5,000 per annum. Fees paid
during 1998 by this fund are pro-rata from the initial funding on August 12,
1998.
*** The Funds, including the International Fund, have no pension or retirement
plan for Trustees.
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<PAGE> 42
CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SECURITIES
The Board of Trustees of the Fund consists of six Trustees, four of whom are not
affiliated with Southeastern Asset Management, Inc. and are deemed to be
independent or non "interested" Trustees as defined by Sec. 2(a)(19) of the
Investment Company Act of 1940. The Board establishes operating policies and
oversees management of the Fund.
Prior to the effective date of this registration statement, the Fund was
initially capitalized or "seeded" by certain persons who are affiliates of
Southeastern Asset Management, Inc. and the Fund, including directors and
officers of Southeastern, Trustees and officers of the Fund, Southeastern's
profit sharing plan, and Longleaf Foundation, a charitable foundation funded by
certain affiliates of Southeastern and the Fund. As of October 9, 1998,
2,708,495 shares were outstanding, having a net asset value of $22,163,030. Mr.
O. Mason Hawkins, Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of
Southeastern and the Fund, owned as of that date more than 25% of the
outstanding shares and is therefore deemed to control the Fund. Shareholders
owing beneficially and of record more than 5% of the outstanding shares are:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
O. Mason Hawkins; Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive
Officer of Southeastern................................... 60.6%
G. Staley Cates; President of Southeastern.................. 9.4%
Southeastern Asset Management, Inc. Profit Sharing Plan..... 7.7%
Longleaf Foundation......................................... 7.5%
All directors, trustees and officers as a group............. 83.6%
</TABLE>
The addresses of each of the shareholders named above is c/o Southeastern Asset
Management, Inc., 6410 Poplar Ave., Ste. 900; Memphis, TN 38119.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY SERVICES
Southeastern Asset Management, Inc., an investment advisor registered with the
Securities and Exchange Commission under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, is
the Fund's Investment Counsel. The firm is owned and controlled by its principal
officers, who are listed in the Prospectus as affiliated Trustees and Executive
Officers of the Fund. Mr. O. Mason Hawkins, Chairman of the Board and Chief
Executive Officer of Southeastern, owns a majority of its outstanding voting
stock.
Formed in 1975, Southeastern manages institutional and individual assets in
private or separate accounts as well as mutual funds, and is responsible for
managing more than $12 billion in client assets. It has served as investment
adviser to each of the Longleaf Partners Funds since their respective inception
dates. Additional information with respect to the investment advisory function
is contained in the Prospectus under the caption "Investment Management and Fund
Administration" on page 16.
The annual Investment Counsel fee for the International Fund is 1.50% of average
daily net assets. The Investment Counsel Agreement limits the normal operating
expenses of the Fund, including all fees but excluding interest, taxes,
brokerage commissions, and extraordinary expenses, to a maximum of 1.75% of the
Fund's average net assets in any fiscal year through a reduction of the
Investment Counsel fees.
INVESTMENT PERFORMANCE AND TOTAL RETURN
Total Return Calculation. The average annual total return on an investment in
shares of each of the Funds for a particular period is calculated using a
specific formula required by the Securities & Exchange Commission. The formula
takes into account any appreciation or depreciation in the portfolio, assumes
reinvestment of all dividends and capital gains distributions, and then
mathematically averages the return
11
<PAGE> 43
over the length of time covered by the calculation. The formula used for
computing average annual total return, as specified by regulation, is as
follows:
"Average Annual Total Return" shall mean the average annual compounded
rate of return, computed according to the following formula:
p(1+T) to the nth power = ERV
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Where P = a hypothetical initial investment of $1,000
T = average annual total return
n = number of years (or fractional portions thereof)
ERV = ending value of a hypothetical $1,000 investment made at the
beginning of the period (or fractional portion thereof).
</TABLE>
Use of Total Return Information. Average annual total return information may be
useful to investors in considering the Fund's past investment performance.
However, certain factors should be taken into account before basing an
investment decision on this information. First, in comparing the Fund's total
return with the total return of any market indices for the same period, the
investor should be aware that market indices are unmanaged and contain different
and generally more numerous securities than the Fund's portfolios. Some market
indices are not adjusted for reinvested dividends. Further, no adjustment is
made in the Funds' total returns or the total returns of any market indices for
taxes payable on distributions.
An investment in the Fund is an equity investment. As a result, total returns
will fluctuate over time, and total return for the past period is not an
indication or representation as to future rates of total return. When comparing
each Fund's total returns with those of other alternatives such as fixed income
investments, investors should understand that an equity fund may be subject to
greater market risks than are money market or fixed income investments, and that
the Fund is designed for investors who are willing to accept such greater market
risks for the possibility of realizing greater long-term gains. There is no
assurance that the Fund's investment objective will be achieved.
OTHER MANAGEMENT RELATED SERVICES
The Fund pays an Administration Fee equal to 0.10% per annum of the average
daily net assets, which is accrued daily and paid monthly in arrears.
As the Fund Administrator, Southeastern manages and performs all business and
administrative operations of each Fund, including the following:
- - Preparation and maintenance of all accounting records
- - Preparation and filing of all required financial reports and tax returns
- - Securities registrations and reports of sales of shares
- - Calculation of the daily net asset value per share
- - Preparation and mailing of prospectuses, proxy statements, and other required
reports to shareholders
- - General coordination and liaison among the Investment Counsel, authorized
dealers, the custodian bank, the transfer agent, and regulatory authorities
- - Supplying office space and administrative support for the above functions.
The Fund also reimburses the Administrator for the charges for computer programs
and hardware solely used to process Fund transactions and for a portion of the
compensation of the Fund's Treasurer. These
12
<PAGE> 44
reimbursable expenses are allocated among the portfolios taking into account
their respective assets and number of shareholders. The Administrator has not
been leasing computer hardware equipment for dedicated use by the Fund and has
not requested reimbursement for costs or charges related to computer hardware.
All other direct Fund operating expenses are paid by the Fund. Such expenses
include but are not limited to the following: (i) the fees of the Custodian and
Transfer Agent; (ii) compensation of the independent certified public
accountants, outside legal counsel, and fees and travel expenses of the Trustees
who are not officers or employees of Southeastern; (iii) all franchise, income
and other taxes relating to the Funds or their securities; (iv) all filing fees
and legal expenses incurred in qualifying and continuing the registrations of
the shares for sale with the Securities and Exchange Commission and with any
regulatory agency in the several states; (v) insurance premiums and trade
association dues; (vi) the costs of typesetting, printing and mailing to
shareholders such documents as prospectuses, proxy statements, dividend notices
and all other communications; (vii) expenses of meetings of shareholders and the
Boards of Trustees; (viii) external expenses related to pricing portfolio
securities; and (ix) any extraordinary expenses such as expenses of litigation.
The Fund also pays the expenses of stationery, appropriate forms, envelopes,
checks, postage, overnight air courier charges, telephone charges, and printing
and mailing charges for shareholder communications and similar items.
TERMS OF AGREEMENTS
The Fund has entered into agreements with Southeastern Asset Management, Inc.,
as the Investment Counsel and separately as the Fund Administrator, initially
effective for a period of two years. Each agreement must be renewed each year
thereafter by the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding voting
securities of the Fund or by a majority of members of the Board of Trustees,
including a majority of the Trustees who are not "interested" Trustees. Such
Agreements will automatically terminate in the event of assignment as defined in
the Investment Company Act of 1940. The Fund may terminate such Agreements,
without penalty, upon 60 days' written notice by a majority vote of the Board of
Trustees or by a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund.
ADDITIONAL TAX INFORMATION
The Fund intends to qualify for favorable tax treatment applicable to regulated
investment companies under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as
amended. Qualification does not involve supervision of management or investment
practices or policies by the Internal Revenue Service. In order to qualify as a
regulated investment company, a Fund must, among other things, derive at least
90% of its gross income from dividends, interest, payments with respect to
proceeds from securities loans, gains from the sale or other disposition of
securities and other income (including gains from options future and forward
foreign currency contracts) derived with respect to its business of investing in
such securities. The Fund must also diversify its holdings so that, at the end
of each quarter of its taxable year, (i) at least 50% of the market value of
total assets is represented by cash, U.S. Government securities and other
securities limited in respect of any one issuer, to an amount not greater than
5% of the Fund's total assets and 10% of the outstanding voting securities of
such issuer, and (ii) not more than 25% of the value of its total assets is
invested in the securities of any one issuer (other than U.S. Government
securities). Further, a regulated investment company may not invest more than 25
percent of the value of its total assets in the securities of two or more
issuers which it controls and which are engaged in the same or similar trades or
businesses or related trades
13
<PAGE> 45
or businesses. By so qualifying, the Fund is not subject to Federal income tax
if it timely distributes its investment company taxable income and any net
realized capital gains.
Amounts not distributed on a timely basis in accordance with distribution
requirements are subject to a nondeductible 4% excise tax. To prevent
application of the tax, the Fund must distribute or be deemed to have
distributed an amount equal to the sum of: (1) at least 98% of its ordinary
income (not taking into account any capital gains or losses) for the 12 month
period ending December 31, (2) at least 98% of its capital gains in excess of
its capital losses (adjusted for certain ordinary losses) for the 12 month
period ending October 31; and (3) all taxable ordinary income and capital gains
for previous years that were not distributed during such years. A distribution
will be treated as paid on December 31 of the calendar year if it is declared by
the Fund in October, November, or December of that year to shareholders of
record on a date in any such month and paid by the Fund during January of the
following calendar year. Such distributions will be treated as received by
shareholders in the calendar year in which the distributions are declared,
rather than the calendar year in which the distributions are received.
If the Fund owns shares in a foreign corporation that constitutes a "passive
foreign investment company" for U.S. federal income tax purposes and the Fund
does not elect or is not able to treat the foreign corporation as a "qualified
electing fund" within the meaning of the Code, the Fund may be subject to U.S.
federal income tax on a portion of any "excess distribution" it receives from
the foreign corporation or any gain it derives from the disposition of such
shares, even if such income is distributed as a taxable dividend by the Fund to
its U.S. shareholders. The Fund may also be subject to additional tax in the
nature of an interest charge with respect to deferred taxes arising from such
distributions or gains. Any tax paid by the Fund as a result of its ownership of
shares in a "passive foreign investment company" will not give rise to any
deduction or credit to the Fund or any shareholder. If the Fund owns shares in a
"passive foreign investment company" and the Fund treats the foreign corporation
as a "qualified electing fund" under the Code, the Fund may be required to
include in its income each year a portion of the ordinary income and net capital
gains of the foreign corporation, even if this income is not distributed to the
Fund. Any such income may be treated as ordinary income and would be subject to
the distribution requirements described above, even if the Fund does not receive
any amounts to distribute.
Certain of the debt securities which may be acquired may be secured in whole or
in part by interests in real estate. If the Fund were to acquire real estate by
foreclosure, income generated by that real estate (including rental income and
gain on its disposition) may not be regarded as qualifying income. If the Fund's
non-qualifying income for a taxable year exceeded 10% of its gross income, it
would fail to qualify as a regulated investment company and it would be taxed in
the same manner as an ordinary corporation. In that case, the Fund would be
ineligible to deduct its distributions to its shareholders and those
distributions, to the extent derived from the Fund's current and accumulated
earnings and profits, would constitute dividends (which may be eligible for the
corporate dividends-received deduction) which are taxable to shareholders as
ordinary income, even though those distributions might otherwise, at least in
part, have been treated in the shareholder's hands as long-term capital gain. If
the Fund fails to qualify as a regulated investment company in a given taxable
year, it must distribute its earnings and profits accumulated in that year in
order to qualify again as a regulated investment company.
14
<PAGE> 46
ALLOCATION OF BROKERAGE COMMISSIONS
Southeastern, in its capacity as Investment Counsel, is responsible under the
supervision of the Board of Trustees for the selection of members of securities
exchanges, brokers and dealers (referred to as "brokers") for the execution of
portfolio transactions and, when applicable, the negotiation of brokerage
commissions. On behalf of the Fund, Southeastern is also responsible for
investment decisions and for the placement and execution through selected
brokers of purchase and sale orders. All investment decisions and placements of
trades for the purchase and sale of portfolio securities are made in accordance
with the following principles:
1. Purchase and sale orders are usually placed with brokers who are
recommended by Southeastern and/or selected by management of the Fund as
able to achieve "best execution" of such orders. "Best execution" means
prompt and reliable execution at the most favorable security price, taking
into account the following provisions. The determination of what may
constitute best execution and price in the execution of a securities
transaction by a broker involves a number of considerations, including,
among others, the overall direct net economic result to the Fund (involving
both price paid or received and any commissions and other costs paid), the
efficiency with which the transaction is effected, the ability to effect
the transaction in the future, the financial strength and stability of the
broker, and the ability of the broker to commit resources to the execution
of the trade. Such considerations are judgemental and are weighed by
Southeastern and the Board of Trustees in determining the overall
reasonableness of brokerage commissions.
2. In recommending or selecting brokers for portfolio transactions,
Southeastern takes into account its past experience in determining those
qualified to achieve "best execution".
3. Southeastern is authorized to recommend and the Fund is authorized
to allocate brokerage and principal purchase and sales transactions to
brokers who have provided brokerage and research services, as such services
are defined in Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (the
"1934 Act"), and for other services which benefit the Fund directly through
reduction of the Fund's expense obligations, such as a reduction in the
Fund's share of the lease charges for computer expenses. Southeastern could
cause the Fund to pay a commission for effecting a securities transaction
in excess of the amount another broker would have charged for effecting
that transaction, if Southeastern in making the recommendation in question
determines in good faith that the commission is reasonable in relation to
the value of the brokerage and research services or other benefits provided
the Fund by such broker. In reaching such determination, neither
Southeastern nor the officer of the Fund making the decision is required to
place a specific dollar value on the research or execution services of a
broker. In demonstrating that such determinations were made in good faith,
Southeastern and the officer of the Fund shall be prepared to show that all
commissions were allocated and paid for purposes contemplated by the Fund's
brokerage policy; that any other benefits or services provided the Fund
were in furtherance of lawful and appropriate obligations of the Fund; and
that the commissions paid were within a reasonable range. Such
determination shall be based on available information as to the level of
commissions known to be charged by other brokers on comparable
transactions, but there shall be taken into account the Fund's policies (i)
that paying the lowest commission is deemed secondary to obtaining a
favorable price and (ii) that the quality, comprehensiveness and frequency
of research studies which are provided for the Fund and Southeastern may be
useful to Southeastern in performing its services under its Agreement with
the Fund but are not subject to precise evaluation. Research services
provided by brokers to the Fund or to Southeastern are considered to be
supplementary to, and not in lieu of services required to be performed by
Southeastern.
15
<PAGE> 47
4. Purchases and sales of portfolio securities within the United
States other than on a securities exchange are executed with primary market
makers acting as principal, except where, in the judgment of Southeastern,
better prices and execution may be obtained on a commission basis or from
other sources.
5. Sales of a Fund's shares by a broker are one factor among others to
be taken into account in recommending and in deciding to allocate portfolio
transactions (including agency transactions, principal transactions,
purchases in underwritings or tenders in response to tender offers) for the
account of the Fund to a broker, provided that the broker shall furnish
"best execution", as defined in paragraph 1 above, and that such allocation
shall be within the scope of the Fund's other policies as stated above; and
provided further that in every allocation made to a broker in which the
sale of Fund shares is taken into account, there shall be no increase in
the amount determined, as set forth in paragraph 3 above, on the basis of
best execution plus research services, without taking account of or placing
any value upon such sales of Fund shares.
Investment decisions for the Fund are made independently from those of the other
Funds or accounts of other clients advised by Southeastern, but the same
security may be held in the portfolios of more than one Fund or one account.
When several accounts and the Funds' portfolios simultaneously purchase or sell
the same security, the prices and amounts will be equitably allocated among all
such accounts. In some situations this procedure could adversely affect the
price or quantity of the security available to one or more of the Funds, but in
other situations the ability to participate in larger volume transactions may
enable a Fund to realize better executions, prices, and lower commissions.
Southeastern does not own an interest in any brokerage firm and places trades
for the Funds through independent brokerage firms.
DISTRIBUTION OF FUND SHARES
Shareholders are referred to the Prospectus for information on the methods of
purchasing shares and computation of net asset value per share. Shares are
available directly from the Fund at net asset value without payment of any sales
charge. Shares may also be purchased and redeemed through authorized brokerage
firms upon payment of transaction fees, all of which are retained by the
particular broker or dealer.
Shares of the Fund are continuously issued and redeemed. The transfer agent and
shareholder servicing agent functions are performed by National Financial Data
Services ("NFDS") of Kansas City, Missouri, an affiliate of State Street Bank
and Trust Company, the custodian bank.
REDEMPTION OF FUND SHARES
Shareholders are referred to the Prospectus for procedures for redeeming shares.
Longleaf Partners Funds Trust has filed an election with the Securities &
Exchange Commission in the manner authorized by Rule 18f-1 under the Investment
Company Act of 1940, in which each series or portfolio has committed to pay in
cash all requests for redemption by any shareholder of record, limited in amount
with respect to each shareholder during any ninety-day period to the lesser of
$250,000 or 1% of the net asset value of the Fund at the beginning of the
period. This election is irrevocable while Rule 18f-1 is in effect, unless the
Securities & Exchange Commission by order upon application permits the
withdrawal of such notification of election as being appropriate in the public
interest and consistent with the protection of investors. In connection with
omnibus accounts, this election applies separately to each beneficial owner
rather than to the omnibus account in the aggregate. The purpose of this
election is to assure that at least $250,000 of a redemption will be paid in
cash.
16
<PAGE> 48
Should a Fund elect to limit its cash payments on redemption to $250,000, the
balance of a redemption request in excess of that amount would be paid through a
distribution of portfolio securities. A shareholder liquidating portfolio
securities received in such a distribution would incur brokerage commissions and
be subject to prevailing market prices.
CUSTODIAN OF FUND ASSETS
State Street Bank and Trust Company, Boston, Massachusetts, serves as Custodian
of the assets of the Fund. Where possible, the Custodian utilizes book entry
records with securities depositories, which in turn may have book entry records
with transfer agents of the issuers of the securities. With respect to U.S.
Government issues the Custodian may utilize the book entry system of the Federal
Reserve System. The Custodian also has the responsibility of collection of the
proceeds of securities sold and disbursement of the cost of securities purchased
by the Funds. State Street Bank maintains a global custody system with sub-
custodians in numerous foreign countries, and the Bank has been appointed by the
Board of Trustees as the Fund's Foreign Custody Manager.
INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, an international public accounting firm, serves as
the Fund's independent accountants.
LEGAL COUNSEL
Dechert Price & Rhoads, a law firm with offices in several major cities
including Washington, D.C., Philadelphia, and Boston, serves as special legal
counsel to the Funds. Charles D. Reaves, Esq., Executive Vice President of the
Fund and Vice President & General Counsel of Southeastern Asset Management,
Inc., serves as general counsel to the Funds.
LIMITATION OF LIABILITY
Longleaf Partners Funds Trust is a Massachusetts business trust organized on
November 26, 1986. The International Fund is the fourth series. The Declaration
of Trust and By-Laws provide that no Trustee, officer, employee, or agent of any
Fund shall be subject to any personal liability to the Fund or its shareholders
for any action or failure to act, except for such person's willful misfeasance,
bad faith, gross negligence, or reckless disregard of the person's duties. The
Trust indemnifies each such person against all such losses other than the
excepted losses. The agreements between the Trust and, respectively, the
Investment Counsel and the Fund Administrator provide for indemnification and
relieve each such entity of liability for any act or omission in the course of
its performance under the particular agreement, including any mistake of
judgment, in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence.
Information on the contractual term and rights of cancellation of each such
agreement is contained in the section entitled "Terms of Agreements."
Under Massachusetts law, shareholders of a mutual fund which is a series of a
Massachusetts business trust could, in theory, be held personally liable for
certain obligations of the particular series. The Declaration of Trust contains
an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for such acts or obligations of
each series, and this disclaimer is included in contracts between the Funds and
third parties. The Declaration of Trust also provides for indemnification from
the assets of each series for any shareholder liability for applicable acts or
obligations should any shareholder be held liable under these provisions for
having been a shareholder.
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<PAGE> 49
TABLE OF BOND AND PREFERRED STOCK RATINGS
DESCRIPTION OF MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. CORPORATE BOND RATINGS:
Aaa -- Bonds which are rated Aaa are judged to be the best quality. They carry
the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as "gilt
edge." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally stable
margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements are likely
to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair the
fundamentally strong position of such issues.
Aa -- Bonds which are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all
standards. Together with the Aaa group they comprise what are generally known as
high grade bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of
protection may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective
elements may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present
which make the long-term risks appear somewhat larger than in Aaa securities.
A -- Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and
are to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving security
to principal and interest are considered adequate but elements may be present
which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
Baa -- Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium grade obligations,
i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments
and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in
fact have speculative characteristics as well.
Ba -- Bonds which are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements; their
future cannot be considered as well assured. Often the protection of interest
and principal payments may be very moderate and thereby not well safeguarded
during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of position
characterizes bonds in this class.
B -- Bonds which are rated B generally lack characteristics of the desirable
investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of maintenance of
other terms of the contract over any long period of time may be small.
Caa -- Bonds which are rated Caa are of poor standing. Such issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to principal or
interest.
Moody's applies the numerical modifiers 1, 2 and 3 to each generic rating
classification from Aa through B. The modifier 1 indicates that the security
ranks in the higher end of its generic rating category; the modifier 2 indicates
a mid-range ranking; and the modifier 3 indicates that the issue ranks in the
lower end of its generic rating category.
DESCRIPTION OF MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. PREFERRED STOCK RATINGS:
aaa -- An issue which is rated aaa is considered to be a top-quality preferred
stock. This rating indicates good asset protection and the least risk of
dividend impairment within the universe of convertible preferred stocks.
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<PAGE> 50
aa -- An issue which is rated aa is considered a high-grade preferred stock.
This rating indicates that there is reasonable assurance that earnings and asset
protection will remain relatively well maintained in the foreseeable future.
a -- An issue which is rated a is considered to be an upper-medium grade
preferred stock. While risks are judged to be somewhat greater than the aaa and
aa classifications, earnings and asset protection are, nevertheless, expected to
be maintained at adequate levels.
baa -- An issue which is rated baa is considered to be a medium-grade preferred
stock, neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Earnings and asset
protection appear adequate at present but may be questionable over any great
length of time.
ba -- An issue which is rated ba is considered to have speculative elements, and
its future cannot be considered well assured. Earnings and asset protection may
be very moderate and not well safeguarded during adverse periods. Uncertainty of
position characterizes preferred stocks in this class.
b -- An issue which is rated b generally lacks the characteristics of a
desirable investment. Assurance of dividend payments and maintenance of other
terms of the issue over any long period of time may be small.
caa -- An issue which is rated caa is likely to be in arrears on dividend
payments. This rating designation does not purport to indicate the future status
of payments.
DESCRIPTION OF STANDARD & POOR'S CORPORATION CORPORATE BOND AND PREFERRED STOCK
RATINGS:
AAA -- Securities rated AAA have the highest rating assigned by S&P. Capacity to
pay interest and repay principal is extremely strong.
AA -- Securities rated AA have a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal and differ from the higher rated issues only in small degree.
A -- Securities rated A have a strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal although they are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of
changes in circumstances and economic conditions than securities in higher rated
categories.
BBB -- Securities rated BBB are regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay
interest and repay principal. Whereas they normally exhibit adequate protection
parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more
likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal for
securities in this category than for securities in higher rated categories.
BB, B and CCC -- Securities rated BB, B and CCC are regarded, on balance, as
predominantly speculative with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay
principal in accordance with the terms of the obligation. BB represents the
lowest degree of speculation and CCC the highest degree of speculation. While
such securities will likely have some quality and protective characteristics,
these are outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse
conditions.
BB -- Securities rated BB have less near-term vulnerability to default than
other speculative issues. However, they face major ongoing uncertainties or
exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions which could lead
to inadequate capacity to meet timely interest and principal payments. The BB
rating category is also used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is
assigned an actual or implied BBB- rating.
B -- Securities rated B have a greater vulnerability to default but currently
have the capacity to meet interest payments and principal repayments. Adverse
business, financial, or economic conditions will likely impair
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<PAGE> 51
capacity or willingness to pay interest and repay principal. The B rating
category is also used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an
actual or implied B or BB rating.
CCC -- Securities rated CCC have a currently identifiable vulnerability to
default, and are dependent upon favorable business, financial and economic
conditions to meet timely payment of interest and repayment of principal. In the
event of adverse business, financial, or economic conditions, they are not
likely to have the capacity to pay interest and repay principal. The CCC rating
category is also used for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an
actual or implied B or B- rating.
Plus (+) or Minus (-): The ratings from A to CCC may be modified by the addition
of a plus or minus sign to show relative standing within major rating
categories.
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<PAGE> 52
INVESTMENT COUNSEL
Southeastern Asset Management, Inc.
6410 Poplar Avenue, Suite 900
Memphis, TN 38119
(901) 761-2474
TRANSFER AND DIVIDEND AGENT
National Financial Data Services ("NFDS")
P.O. Box 419929
Kansas City, MO 64141-6929
For Information about your account,
call (800) 488-4191
CUSTODIAN
State Street Bank & Trust Company, Boston, MA
SPECIAL LEGAL COUNSEL
Dechert Price & Rhoads, Washington, DC
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, Boston, MA
No person has been authorized to give any further information or make
any representations other than those contained in this Prospectus. If
given or made, such other information or representations must not be
relied upon as having been authorized by the Fund, Investment Counsel,
or Administrator. This Prospectus does not constitute an offering in
any state where such an offering may not be lawfully made.
LONGLEAF
PARTNERS
LOGO FUNDS TRUST
MANAGED BY:
SOUTHEASTERN ASSET
MANAGEMENT, INC.
6410 POPLAR AVE.
SUITE 900
MEMPHIS, TN 38119
(901) 761-2474
(800) 445-9469
LONGLEAF
PARTNERS
LOGO FUNDS
STATEMENT OF
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
OCTOBER 24, 1998
---------------------
LONGLEAF PARTNERS
INTERNATIONAL FUND
---------------------
MANAGED BY
SOUTHEASTERN ASSET MANAGEMENT, INC.
6410 POPLAR AVENUE; SUITE 900
MEMPHIS, TN 38119
---------------------
TELEPHONE (800) 445-9469;
(901) 761-2474.
