As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on August 31, 2000
Registration No., 33-18255/811-5380
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM N-1A
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 [x]
Pre-Effective Amendment No. [ ]
Post-Effective Amendment No. 43 [x]
and/or
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940 [x]
Amendment No. 44 [x]
(Check appropriate box or boxes.)
FIRSTAR FUNDS, INC.
-------------------
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53201-3011
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant's Telephone Number, including Area Code (414) 287-3909
with a copy of communications to:
W. Bruce McConnel, Esquire
Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
One Logan Square
18th and Cherry Streets
Philadelphia, PA 19103-6996
Copies of all communications to:
Suzanne E. Riley, Esq.
Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC
615 East Michigan Street, 2nd Floor
Milwaukee, WI 53202
It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate box)
[ ] immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b)
on pursuant to paragraph (b)
[x] 60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)
on pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)
[ ] 75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)
on pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of Rule 485.
If appropriate, check the following box:
This post-effective amendment designates a new effective date for a
previously filed post-effective amendment.
PROSPECTUS
_________, 2000
U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES FUND
AGGREGATE BOND FUND
NATIONAL MUNICIPAL BOND FUND
As with all mutual funds, the Securities and Exchange Commission has not
approved or disapproved any shares of these funds or determined if this
prospectus is truthful or complete. Anyone who tells you otherwise is
committing a criminal offense.
FIRSTAR FUNDS
FIRSTAR FUNDS/R
__________, 2000
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
----
U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES FUND.......................................1
AGGREGATE BOND FUND...................................................5
NATIONAL MUNICIPAL BOND FUND.........................................10
TYPES OF INVESTMENT RISK.............................................14
INVESTING WITH FIRSTAR FUNDS.........................................21
Share Classes Available.........................................21
Sales Charges and Waivers.......................................22
Purchasing Shares...............................................27
Redeeming Shares................................................30
Exchanging Shares...............................................32
Additional Shareholder Services.................................33
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION...............................................35
Dividends, Capital Gains Distributions and Taxes................35
Management of the Funds.........................................36
Net Asset Value and Days of Operation...........................38
APPENDIX.............................................................39
Financial Highlights............................................39
FOR MORE INFORMATION.................................................52
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Learn about each Fund's Objective, Principal Investment Strategies, Principal
Risks, Performance and Expenses.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AN INVESTMENT IN THE FUNDS IS NOT A DEPOSIT OF FIRSTAR BANK, N.A. AND IS NOT
INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT INSURANCE CORPORATION OR ANY OTHER GOVERNMENT
AGENCY.
U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES FUND
OBJECTIVE
The investment objective of the U.S. Government Securities Fund is to seek a
high rate of current income that is consistent with relative stability of
principal. The investment objective may be changed by the Board of Directors
without approval of shareholders, although no change is currently anticipated.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
The Fund normally invests at least 65% of its total assets in debt obligations
issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government and its agencies, including U.S.
Treasury bonds, notes and bills, as well as in repurchase agreements backed by
such obligations. The Fund also invests in mortgage-backed securities issued by
U.S. Government-sponsored entities such as Ginnie Maes, Fannie Maes, and Freddie
Macs. The remaining maturity (i.e., length of time until an obligation must be
repaid) of the obligations held by the Fund will vary from one to 30 years.
Under normal conditions, however, the Adviser does not expect the Fund's average
weighted maturity to exceed 10 years when adjusted for the expected average life
of any mortgage-backed securities held by the Fund.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
The following principal investment risks are described in more detail under the
heading "Types of Investment Risk." Some additional risks which apply to the
Fund are also described under that heading.
The rate of income on Fund shares will vary from day to day so that dividends on
your investment will vary. Fixed-income securities in which the Fund invests
are subject to credit risk, interest rate risk and maturity risk. Credit risk
----------- ------------------ ------------- -----------
is the risk that an issuer of fixed-income securities may default on its
obligation to pay interest and repay principal. Interest rate risk is the risk
------------------
that, when interest rates increase, fixed-income securities will decline in
value. Obligations rated in the lowest of the top four rating categories are
considered to have speculative characteristics and are subject to greater credit
and interest rate risk than higher rated securities. Maturity risk is the risk
-------------
that, generally, the longer the time until maturity, the more sensitive the
price of a debt security is to interest rate changes.
Certain securities in which the Fund invests pose additional risks. The
Statement of Additional Statement (the "Additional Statement") describes risks
of collateralized mortgage obligations and mortgage- and asset-backed
securities, which are subject to extension risk and prepayment risk. Extension
-------------- --------------- ---------
risk is the risk that an issuer will exercise its right to pay principal on an
----
obligation held by the Fund (such as a mortgage- or asset-backed security) later
than expected. This may happen when there is a rise in interest rates. Under
such circumstances, the value of the obligation will decrease and a Fund will
also suffer from the inability to invest in higher yielding securities.
Prepayment risk is the risk that an issuer will exercise its right to pay
---------------
principal on an obligation held by a Fund (such as a mortgage- or asset-backed
security) earlier than expected. This may happen when there is a decline in
interest rates. These events may make a Fund unable to recoup its initial
investment and may result in reduced yields.
The value of debt securities also depends on the ability of issuers to make
principal and interest payments. If an issuer can't meet its payment
obligations, the value of its debt securities will fall. Securities issued or
guaranteed by the U.S. Government and its agencies have historically involved
little risk of loss of principal if held to maturity. Certain U.S. government
securities, such as Ginnie Maes, are supported by the full faith and credit of
the U.S. Treasury. Others, such as Freddie Macs, are supported by the right of
the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury. Other securities, such as Fannie
Maes, are supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to
purchase certain obligations of the issuers, and still others are supported by
the issuer's own credit.
Repurchase Agreements carry the risk that the other party may not fulfill its
obligations under the agreement.
An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of Firstar Bank, N.A. and is not
insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
government agency. An investment in the Fund involves risk, including the risk
of losing money.
BAR CHART AND PERFORMANCE TABLE
The Fund offers four types of shares, as described under "Investing with Firstar
Funds" - Retail A, Retail B, Y and Institutional. These share types bear
differing levels of expenses, as described under "Investing with Firstar Funds."
The following bar chart and table provide an indication of the risks of
investing in the Fund by showing: (a) changes in the performance of the Fund's
Retail A Shares from year to year; and (b) how the average annual returns of the
Fund's Retail A, Retail B, Y and Institutional Shares compare to those of a
broad-based securities market index. The Fund will not begin investment
operations until the closings of pending reorganizations between Firstar Funds,
Inc. and each of Mercantile Funds, Inc. and Firstar Stellar Funds (together, the
"Firstar Reorganization"). The performance set forth below is based on the
performance of corresponding classes of the Mercantile U.S. Government
Securities Portfolio (the "Predecessor Portfolio"). The Predecessor Portfolio
was managed by a different investment adviser for the periods shown below until
March 1, 2000. See "Management of Funds" for more information.
The bar chart and performance table assume reinvestment of dividends and
distributions. Remember, past performance is not indicative of future results.
Sales charges are not reflected in the bar chart. If these amounts were
reflected, returns would be less than those shown.
YEAR-BY-YEAR TOTAL RETURN AS OF 12/31 EACH YEAR (%) (RETAIL A SHARES)
90 11.04
91 13.98
92 5.48
93 8.77
94 -2.74
95 14.95
96 3.01
97 6.37
98 6.43
99 0.69
The Fund's performance for the six-month period ended June 30, 2000 was 2.97%.
U.S. GOVERNMENT
SECURITIES FUND
BEST QUARTER: Q 3 '91 5.40%
WORST QUARTER: Q 1 '94 -2.60%
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN AS OF 12/31/99
(RETAIL A, RETAIL B, Y AND INSTITUTIONAL SHARES)<F1>
----------------------------------------------------
Since Inception
1 Year 5 Years 10 Years (Inception date)
------- ------- -------- ---------------
U.S. GOVERNMENT
SECURITIES FUND
Retail A Shares -3.36% 5.32% 6.23% 6.53%
(June 2, 1988)
LEHMAN BROTHERS
INTERMEDIATE
GOVERNMENT
BOND INDEX 0.49% 6.93% 7.10% 7.55%
(May 31, 1988)
U.S. GOVERNMENT
SECURITIES FUND
Retail B Shares -4.60% -- -- 4.01%
(May 11, 1995)<F2>
LEHMAN BROTHERS
INTERMEDIATE
GOVERNMENT
BOND INDEX 0.49% -- -- 6.24%
(April 30, 1995)
U.S. GOVERNMENT
SECURITIES FUND
Y Shares 0.77% 6.18% -- 5.42%
(June 7, 1994)
LEHMAN BROTHERS
INTERMEDIATE
GOVERNMENT
BOND INDEX 0.49% 6.93% -- 6.31%
(May 31, 1994)
U.S. GOVERNMENT
SECURITIES FUND
Institutional
Shares 1.00% 6.50% -- 6.36%
(February 1, 1991)
LEHMAN BROTHERS
INTERMEDIATE
GOVERNMENT BOND
INDEX 0.49% 6.93% -- 6.78%
(January 31, 1991)
<F1> The U.S. Government Securities Fund's Retail A, Retail B, Y and
Institutional Shares are the corresponding classes for the Predecessor
Portfolio's Investor A, Investor B, Institutional and Trust Shares,
respectively.
<F2> Date of initial public investment.
The Lehman Brothers Intermediate Government Bond Index is an unmanaged index,
which tracks the performance of intermediate-term U.S. Government bonds. The
Index figures do not reflect any fees or expenses. Investors cannot invest
directly in an Index.
FEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUND
-----------------------------
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold
shares of the U.S. Government Securities Fund.
SHAREHOLDER FEES
(fees paid
directly from
your investment) RETAIL A RETAIL B Y INSTITUTIONAL
----------------- -------- -------- -------- -------------
Maximum Sales Charge
(Load) Imposed on
Purchases (as a
percentage of
offering price) 4.00% None None None
Maximum Deferred
Sales Charge (Load)
(as a percentage of
offering price) None 5.00%<F1> None None
Maximum Sales Charge
(Load) Imposed
on Reinvested
Dividends None None None None
Redemption Fees None<F2> None<F2> None<F2> None<F2>
Exchange Fees None None None None
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING
EXPENSES (expenses
that are deducted
from Fund assets) RETAIL A Retail B Y INSTITUTIONAL
---------------- -------- -------- -------- -------------
Management Fees 0.60% 0.60% 0.60% 0.60%
Distribution and
Service (12b-1)
Fees 0.00%<F3> 0.75% 0.00% 0.00%
Other Expenses<F4> 0.48% 0.48% 0.48% 0.23%
------- ------- ------- -------
Total Annual Fund
Operating Expenses 1.08% 1.83% 1.08% 0.83%
Fee Waivers and
Expense
Reimbursements<F5> (0.10%) (0.10%) (0.10%) (0.10%)
------- ------- ------- -------
Net Annual Fund
Operating
Expenses<F5> 0.98% 1.73% 0.98% 0.73%
<F1> A contingent deferred sales charge is imposed on Retail B Shares redeemed
within six years of purchase at a rate of 5% in the first year, 4% in the
second year, 3% in the third and fourth years, 2% in the fifth year,
declining to 1% in the sixth year. Thereafter Retail B Shares convert to
Retail A Shares, which do not bear a contingent deferred sales charge.
<F2> A fee of $12.00 is charged for each wire redemption (Retail A and Retail B
Shares) and $15.00 for each non-systematic withdrawal from a Retirement
Account for which Firstar Bank, N.A. is custodian.
<F3> The total of all 12b-1 fees and shareholder servicing fees may not exceed,
in the aggregate, the annual rate of 0.25% of the Fund's average daily net
assets for the Retail A Shares. The Fund does not intend to pay 12b-1 fees
with respect to the Retail A Shares for the current fiscal year.
<F4> "Other Expenses" includes (1) administration fees, transfer agency fees and
all other ordinary operating expenses of the Fund not listed above and (2)
for the Retail A, Retail B and Y Shares, the payment of a shareholder
servicing fee to institutions (described below under the heading "Investing
with Firstar Funds - Shareholder Organizations") equal to 0.25% of the
average daily net assets of the Fund's Retail A Shares, Retail B Shares and
Y Shares.
<F5> The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive fees and reimburse other
expenses for Retail A, Retail B, Y and Institutional Shares until
October 31, 2001, so that Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses will be no
more than 0.98%, 1.73%, 0.98% and 0.73% for each class, respectively, for
the current fiscal year. The Fund's Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses
and Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses are estimated based on expenses
expected to be incurred in the current fiscal year.
EXAMPLE
The following example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in
the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The example assumes
that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then
redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes
that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating
expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower,
based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
-------- -------- -------- --------
U.S. Government Securities Fund -
Retail A Shares $496 $720 $962 $1,656
U.S. Government Securities Fund -
Retail B Shares
Assuming complete redemption
at end of period 676 866 1,181 1,762
Assuming no redemption 176 566 981 1,762
U.S. Government Securities Fund -
Y Shares 100 333 586 1,308
U.S. Government Securities Fund -
Institutional Shares 75 255 451 1,016
Retail B Shares convert to Retail A Shares six years after purchase; therefore,
Retail A Shares expenses are used for Retail B Shares in the hypothetical
example after year six.
AGGREGATE BOND FUND
OBJECTIVE
The investment objective of the Aggregate Bond Fund is to provide an annual rate
of total return, before fund expenses, comparable to the annual rate or total
return of the Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index. The investment objective
may be changed by the Board of Directors without approval of shareholders,
although no change is currently anticipated.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
The Fund invests substantially all of its assets in a broad range of debt
obligations, including corporate obligations and U.S. Government obligations.
Corporate obligations may include bonds, notes and debentures. U.S. Government
obligations may include U.S. Treasury obligations and obligations of certain
U.S. Government agencies. The Portfolio also invests in mortgage-backed
securities, including Ginnie Maes, Fannie Maes and Freddie Macs. Although the
Portfolio invests primarily in the debt obligations of U.S. issuers, it may from
time to time invest up to 10% of its total assets in U.S. dollar-denominated
debt obligations of foreign corporations and governments.
The Fund may only purchase investment grade debt obligations, which are those
rated in one of the four highest rating categories by one or more national
rating agencies, such as S&P's or Moody's. Under normal market conditions,
however, the Fund intends to invest at least 65% of its total assets in debt
obligations rated in one of the three highest rating categories. Unrated debt
obligations will be purchased only if they are determined by the Adviser to be
at least comparable in quality at the time of purchase to eligible rated
securities. Occasionally, the rating of a security held by the Fund may be
downgraded to below investment grade. If that happens, the Fund does not have
to sell the security unless the Adviser determines that under the circumstances
the security is no longer an appropriate investment for the Fund.
In making investment decisions, the Adviser considers a number of factors
including credit quality, the price of the security relative to that of other
securities in its sector, current yield, maturity, yield to maturity,
anticipated changes in interest rates and other economic factors, liquidity, and
the overall quality of the investment.
The remaining maturity (i.e., length of time until an obligation must be repaid)
of the obligations held by the Fund will vary from less than one year to 30
years. The Fund's average weighted maturity will vary from time to time
depending on current market and economic conditions and the Adviser's assessment
of probable changes in interest rates.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
The following principal investment risks are described in more detail under the
heading "Types of Investment Risk." Some additional risks which apply to the
Fund are also described under that heading.
The rate of income on Fund shares will vary from day to day so that dividends on
your investment will vary. Fixed-income securities in which the Fund invests
are subject to credit risk, interest rate risk and maturity risk. Credit risk
----------- ------------------ ------------- -----------
is the risk that an issuer of fixed-income securities may default on its
obligation to pay interest and repay principal. Interest rate risk is the risk
------------------
that, when interest rates increase, fixed-income securities will decline in
value. Obligations rated in the lowest of the top four rating categories are
considered to have speculative characteristics and are subject to greater credit
and interest rate risk than higher rated securities. Maturity risk is the risk
-------------
that, generally, the longer the time until maturity, the more sensitive the
price of a debt security is to interest rate changes.
Certain securities in which the Fund invests pose additional risks. The
Additional Statement describes risks of collateralized mortgage obligations and
mortgage- and asset-backed securities, which are subject to extension risk and
--------------
prepayment risk. Extension risk is the risk that an issuer will exercise its
--------------- --------------
right to pay principal on an obligation held by a Fund (such as a mortgage- or
asset-backed security) later than expected. This may happen when there is a
rise in interest rates. Under such circumstances, the value of the obligation
will decrease and a Fund will also suffer from the inability to invest in higher
yielding securities. Prepayment risk is the risk that an issuer will exercise
---------------
its right to pay principal on an obligation held by a Fund (such as a mortgage-
or asset-backed security) earlier than expected. This may happen when there is
a decline in interest rates. These events may make a Fund unable to recoup its
initial investment and may result in reduced yields.
The Fund's investments in foreign debt securities are subject to foreign risks.
-------------
Foreign debt securities involve special risks not typically associated with U.S.
securities. The foreign debt securities held by the Fund may underperform other
types of securities, and they may not increase or may decline in value. Foreign
investments may be riskier than U.S. investments because of factors such as
foreign government restrictions, changes in currency exchange rates, incomplete
financial information about the issuers of securities, and political or economic
instability. Foreign securities may be more volatile and less liquid than U.S.
stocks.
An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of Firstar Bank, N.A. and is not
insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
government agency. An investment in the Fund involves risk, including the risk
of losing money.
BAR CHART AND PERFORMANCE TABLE
The Fund offers four types of shares, as described under "Investing with Firstar
Funds" - Retail A, Retail B, Y and Institutional. These share types bear
differing levels of expenses, as described under "Investing with Firstar Funds."
The following bar chart and table provide an indication of the risks of
investing in the Fund by showing: (a) changes in the performance of the Fund's
Retail A Shares from year to year; and (b) how the average annual returns of the
Fund's Retail A, Retail B, Y and Institutional Shares compare to those of a
broad-based securities market index. The Fund will not begin investment
operations until the closings of pending reorganizations between Firstar Funds,
Inc. and each of Mercantile Funds, Inc. and Firstar Stellar Funds (together, the
"Firstar Reorganization"). The performance set forth below is based on the
performance of corresponding classes of the Mercantile Government & Corporate
Bond Portfolio (the "Predecessor Portfolio"). The Predecessor Portfolio was
managed by a different investment adviser for the periods shown below until
March 1, 2000. See "Management of Funds" for more information.
The bar chart and performance table assume reinvestment of dividends and
distributions. Remember, past performance is not indicative of future results.
Sales charges are not reflected in the bar chart. If these amounts were
reflected, returns would be less than those shown.
YEAR-BY-YEAR TOTAL RETURN AS OF 12/31 EACH YEAR (%) (RETAIL A SHARES)
90 6.46
91 15.23
92 5.78
93 9.07
94 -2.92
95 16.73
96 1.83
97 8.03
98 8.68
99 -2.01
The Fund's performance for the six-month period ended June 30, 2000 was 3.91%.
AGGREGATE BOND FUND
BEST QUARTER: Q 2 '95 5.60%
WORST QUARTER: Q 1 '96 -2.79%
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN AS OF 12/31/99
(RETAIL A, RETAIL B, Y AND INSTITUTIONAL SHARES)<F1>
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since Inception
1 Year 5 Years 10 Years (Inception date)
-------- -------- -------- ----------------
AGGREGATE BOND FUND
Retail A Shares -5.92% 5.61% 6.08% 6.47%
(June 15, 1988)
LEHMAN BROTHERS
AGGREGATE BOND
INDEX -0.82% 7.73% 7.70% 8.34%
(May 31, 1988)
AGGREGATE BOND FUND
Retail B Shares -7.28% -- -- 5.05%
(March 7, 1995)<F2>
LEHMAN BROTHERS
AGGREGATE BOND
INDEX -0.82% -- -- 7.04%
(February 28, 1995)
AGGREGATE BOND FUND
Y Shares -2.06% 6.47% -- 4.86%
(January 3, 1994)
LEHMAN BROTHERS
AGGREGATE BOND
INDEX -0.82% 7.73% -- 5.88%
(December 31, 1993)
AGGREGATE BOND FUND
Institutional
Shares -1.77% 6.78% -- 6.72%
(February 1, 1991)
LEHMAN BROTHERS
AGGREGATE BOND
INDEX -0.82% 7.73% -- 7.48%
(January 31, 1991)
<F1> The Aggregate Bond Fund's Retail A, Retail B, Y and Institutional Shares
are the corresponding classes for the Predecessor Portfolio's Investor A,
Investor B, Institutional and Trust Shares.
<F2> Date of initial public investment.
The Lehman Brothers Aggregate Bond Index is a widely-recognized unmanaged index
made up of Lehman Brothers' Government/Corporate Bond Index, its Mortgage Backed
Securities Index and its Asset Backed Securities Index. The Index figures do
not reflect any fees or expenses. Investors cannot invest directly in an Index.
FEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUND
-----------------------------
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold
shares of the Aggregate Bond Fund.
SHAREHOLDER FEES
(fees paid directly
from your
investment) RETAIL A RETAIL B Y INSTITUTIONAL
-------- -------- -------- -------------
Maximum Sales Charge
(Load) Imposed on
Purchases (as a
percentage of
offering price) 4.00% None None None
Maximum Deferred
Sales Charge (Load)
(as a percentage
of offering price) None 5.00%<F1> None None
Maximum Sales Charge
(Load) Imposed
on Reinvested
Dividends None None None None
Redemption Fees None<F2> None<F2> None<F2> None<F2>
Exchange Fees None None None None
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING
EXPENSES(expenses that
are deducted from
Fund assets) RETAIL A RETAIL B Y INSTITUTIONAL
-------- -------- -------- --------------
Management Fees 0.50% 0.50% 0.50% 0.50%
Distribution
and Service
(12b-1) Fees 0.00%<F3> 0.75% 0.00% 0.00%
Other Expenses<F4> 0.49% 0.49% 0.49% 0.24%
Total Annual Fund
Operating Expenses 0.99% 1.74% 0.99% 0.74%
Fee Waivers
and Expense
Reimbursements<F5> (0.06%) (0.06%) (0.06%) (0.06%)
Net Annual
Fund Operating
Expenses<F5> 0.93% 1.68% 0.93% 0.68%
<F1> A contingent deferred sales charge is imposed on Retail B Shares redeemed
within six years of purchase at a rate of 5% in the first year, 4% in the
second year, 3% in the third and fourth years, 2% in the fifth year,
declining to 1% in the sixth year. Thereafter Retail B Shares convert to
Retail A Shares, which do not bear a contingent deferred sales charge.
<F2> A fee of $12.00 is charged for each wire redemption (Retail A and Retail B
Shares) and $15.00 for each non-systematic withdrawal from a Retirement
Account for which Firstar Bank, N.A. is custodian.
<F3> The total of all 12b-1 fees and shareholder servicing fees may not exceed,
in the aggregate, the annual rate of 0.25% of the Fund's average daily net
assets for the Retail A Shares. The Fund does not intend to pay 12b-1 fees
with respect to the Retail A Shares for the current fiscal year.
<F4> "Other Expenses" includes (1) administration fees, transfer agency fees and
all other ordinary operating expenses of the Fund not listed above and (2)
for the Retail A, Retail B and Y Shares, the payment of a shareholder
servicing fee to institutions (described below under the heading "Investing
with Firstar Funds - Shareholder Organizations") equal to 0.25% of the
average daily net assets of the Fund's Retail A Shares, Retail B Shares and
Y Shares.
<F5> The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive fees and reimburse other
expenses for Retail A, Retail B, Y and Institutional Shares until
October 31, 2001, so that Net Annual Fund Operating Expenses will be no
more than 0.93%, 1.68%, 0.93% and 0.68%, respectively, for the current
fiscal year. The Fund's Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses and Net
Annual Fund Operating Expenses are estimated based on expenses expected to
be incurred in the current fiscal year.
EXAMPLE
The following example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in
the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The example assumes
that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then
redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes
that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating
expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower,
based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
------- -------- -------- --------
Aggregate Bond Fund - Retail A Shares $491 $695 $915 $1,549
Aggregate Bond Fund - Retail B Shares
Assuming complete redemption
at end of period 671 840 1,134 1,656
Assuming no redemption 176 540 934 1,656
Aggregate Bond Fund - Y Shares 95 307 537 1,197
Aggregate Bond Fund -
Institutional Shares 69 228 401 902
Retail B Shares convert to Retail A Shares six years after purchase; therefore,
Retail A Shares expenses are used for Retail B Shares in the hypothetical
example after year six.
NATIONAL MUNICIPAL BOND FUND
OBJECTIVE
The investment objective of the National Municipal Bond Fund is to seek as high
a level of current income exempt from regular federal income tax as is
consistent with conservation of capital. The investment objective may be
changed by the Board of Directors without approval of shareholders, although no
change is currently anticipated.
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
The Fund normally invests at least 80% of its total assets in municipal
securities that pay interest which is exempt from federal income tax. Municipal
securities purchased by the Portfolio may include general obligation securities,
revenue securities and private activity bonds. General obligation securities
are secured by the issuer's full faith, credit and taxing power. Revenue
securities are usually payable only from revenues derived from specific
facilities or revenue sources. Private activity bonds are usually revenue
obligations since they are typically payable by the private user of the
facilities financed by the bonds. The interest on private activity bonds may be
subject to the federal alternative minimum tax. Investments in private activity
bonds will not be treated as investments in municipal securities for purposes of
the 80% requirement stated above. Under normal market conditions, the Fund's
investments in private activity bonds and taxable obligations will not exceed
20% of its total assets.
In selecting municipal securities for the Fund, the Adviser favors those sectors
of the municipal market that offer the most favorable returns. The Adviser
emphasizes municipal securities that offer both a high credit quality rating and
a high degree of liquidity. The Adviser also attempts to maintain a broad
geographic diversification for the Fund, with emphasis on no particular state.
The Fund will invest only in investment grade municipal securities. These are
securities which have one of the four highest ratings assigned by a national
rating agency, such as S&P's or Moody's or are unrated securities determined by
the Adviser to be of comparable quality. Short-term municipal securities
purchased by the Fund, such as municipal notes and tax-exempt commercial paper,
will have one of the two highest ratings assigned by a national rating agency or
will be unrated securities that the Adviser has determined to be of comparable
quality. Occasionally, the rating of a security held by the Fund may be
downgraded to below the minimum required rating. If that happens, the Fund does
not have to sell the security unless the Adviser determines that under the
circumstances the security is no longer an appropriate investment for the Fund.
The Fund's average weighted maturity will vary from time to time depending on
current economic and market conditions and the Adviser's assessment of probable
changes in interest rates. The Fund's average weighted maturity generally will
be 10 years or less.
PRINCIPAL RISKS
The following principal investment risks are described in more detail under the
heading "Types of Investment Risk." Some additional risks which apply to the
Fund are also described under that heading.
The rate of income on Fund shares will vary from day to day so that dividends on
your investment will vary. The Fund is subject to credit risk, interest rate
----------- -------------
risk and tax risk. Credit risk is the risk that an issuer of fixed-income
---- -------- -----------
securities may default on its obligation to pay interest and repay principal.
Interest rate risk is the risk that, when interest rates increase, fixed-income
------------------
securities will decline in value. Tax risk is the risk that the Fund may be
--------
more adversely impacted by changes in tax rates and policies than other funds.
Obligations rated in the lowest of the top four rating categories are considered
to have speculative characteristics and are subject to greater credit and
interest rate risk than higher rated securities.
The Fund is also subject to extension risk and prepayment risk. Extension risk
-------------- --------------- --------------
is the risk that an issuer will exercise its right to pay principal on an
obligation held by the Fund later than expected. This may happen when there is
a rise in interest rates. Under such circumstances, the value of the obligation
will decrease and the Fund will also suffer from the inability to invest in
higher yielding securities. Prepayment risk is the risk that an issuer will
---------------
exercise its rights to pay principal on an obligation held by the Fund earlier
than expected. This may happen when there is a decline in interest rates.
These events may make the Fund unable to recoup its initial investment and may
result in reduced yields.
The value of debt securities also depends on the ability of issuers to make
principal and interest payments. If an issuer can't meet its payment
obligations or if its credit rating is lowered, the value of its debt securities
will fall. The ability of a state or local government issuer to make payments
can be affected by many factors, including economic conditions, the flow of tax
revenues and changes in the level of federal, state or local aid. Some
municipal securities are payable only from limited revenue sources or by private
entities.
An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of Firstar Bank, N.A. and is not
insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other
government agency. An investment in the Fund involves risk, including the risk
of losing money.
BAR CHART AND PERFORMANCE TABLE
The Fund offers four types of shares, as described under "Investing with Firstar
Funds" - Retail A, Retail B, Y and Institutional. These share types bear
differing levels of expenses, as described under "Investing with Firstar Funds."
The following bar chart and table provide an indication of the risks of
investing in the Fund by showing: (a) changes in the performance of the Fund's
Retail A Shares from year to year; and (b) how the average annual returns of the
Fund's Retail A, Retail B and Institutional Shares compare to those of a broad-
based securities market index. The Fund will not begin investment operations
until the closings of pending reorganizations between Firstar Funds, Inc. and
each of Mercantile Funds, Inc. and Firstar Stellar Funds (the "Firstar
Reorganization"). The performance set forth below is based on the performance
of corresponding classes of the Mercantile National Municipal Bond Portfolio
(the "Predecessor Portfolio"). The Predecessor Portfolio was managed by a
different investment adviser for the periods shown below until March 1, 2000.
See "Management of Funds" for more information.
The bar chart and performance table assume reinvestment of dividends and
distributions. Remember, past performance is not indicative of future results.
Sales charges are not reflected in the bar chart. If these amounts were
reflected, returns would be less than those shown.
YEAR-BY-YEAR TOTAL RETURN AS OF 12/31 EACH YEAR (%)(RETAIL A SHARES)
97 9.94
98 5.94
99 -4.33
The Fund's performance for the six-month period ended June 30, 2000 was 5.03%.
NATIONAL MUNICIPAL BOND FUND
BEST QUARTER: Q 3 '97 3.72%
WORST QUARTER: Q 2 '99 -2.76%
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN AS OF 12/31/99
(RETAIL A, RETAIL B AND INSTITUTIONAL SHARES)<F1>
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Since Inception
1 Year 5 Years 10 Years (Inception date)
-------- -------- -------- ---------------
NATIONAL MUNICIPAL
BOND FUND
Retail A Shares -8.12% -- -- 2.31%
(November 18, 1996)
Retail B Shares -9.95% -- -- 1.94%
(November 18, 1996)
Institutional
Shares -4.41% --- --- 3.81%
(November 18, 1996)
LEHMAN BROTHERS
MUNICIPAL
Bond Index-10 Year -1.25% --- --- 4.53%
(November 30, 1996)
<F1> The National Municipal Bond Fund's Retail A, Retail B and Institutional
Shares are the corresponding classes for the Predecessor Portfolio's
Investor A, Investor B and Trust Shares.
The Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond Index-10 Year is a widely-recognized
unmanaged index that tracks the performance of municipal bonds with remaining
maturities of 10 years or less. The Index figures do not reflect any fees or
expenses. Investors cannot invest directly in an Index.
FEES AND EXPENSES OF THE FUND
-----------------------------
This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold
shares of the National Municipal Bond Fund.
SHAREHOLDER FEES
(fees paid directly
from your
investment) RETAIL A RETAIL B Y INSTITUTIONAL
-------------------- -------- -------- -------- -------------
Maximum Sales Charge
(Load) Imposed on
Purchases (as a
percentage of
offering price) 4.00% None None None
Maximum Deferred Sales
Charge (Load) (as a
percentage of
offering price) None 5.00%<F1> None None
Maximum Sales Charge
(Load) Imposed on
Reinvested Dividends None None None None
Redemption Fees None<F2> None<F2> None<F2> None<F2>
Exchange Fees None None None None
ANNUAL FUND
OPERATING EXPENSES
(expenses that are
deducted from
Fund assets) RETAIL A RETAIL B Y INSTITUTIONAL
--------------------- -------- -------- -------- -------------
Management Fees 0.55% 0.55% 0.55% 0.55%
Distribution and
Service (12b-1) Fees 0.00%<F3> 0.75% 0.00% 0.00%
Other Expenses<F4> 0.46% 0.46% 0.46% 0.21%
Total Annual
Fund Operating
Expenses<F5> 1.01% 1.76% 1.01% 0.76%
<F1> A contingent deferred sales charge is imposed on Retail B Shares redeemed
within six years of purchase at a rate of 5% in the first year, 4% in the
second year, 3% in the third and fourth years, 2% in the fifth year,
declining to 1% in the sixth year. Thereafter Retail B Shares convert to
Retail A Shares, which do not bear a contingent deferred sales charge.
<F2> A fee of $12.00 is charged for each wire redemption (Retail A and Retail B
Shares) and $15.00 for each non-systematic withdrawal from a Retirement
Account for which Firstar Bank, N.A. is custodian.
<F3> The total of all 12b-1 fees and shareholder servicing fees may not exceed,
in the aggregate, the annual rate of 0.25% of the Fund's average daily net
assets for the Retail A Shares. The Fund does not intend to pay 12b-1 fees
with respect to the Retail A Shares for the current fiscal year.
<F4> "Other Expenses" includes (1) administration fees, transfer agency fees and
all other ordinary operating expenses of the Fund not listed above and (2)
for the Retail A, Retail B and Y Shares, the payment of a shareholder
servicing fee to institutions (described below under the heading "Investing
with Firstar Funds - Shareholder Organizations") equal to 0.25% of the
average daily net assets of the Fund's Retail A, Retail B, and Y Shares.
<F5> The Fund's Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses are estimated based on
expenses expected to be incurred in the current fiscal year.
EXAMPLE
The following example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in
the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The example assumes
that you invest $10,000 in the Fund for the time periods indicated and then
redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also assumes
that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating
expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower,
based on these assumptions your costs would be:
1 Year 3 Years 5 Years 10 Years
-------- -------- -------- --------
National Municipal Bond Fund -
Retail A Shares $499 $709 $936 $1,587
National Municipal Bond Fund -
Retail B Shares
Assuming complete redemption
at end of period 679 854 1,154 1,693
Assuming no redemption 179 554 954 1,693
National Municipal Bond Fund -
Y Shares 103 322 558 1,236
National Municipal Bond Fund -
Institutional Shares 78 243 422 942
Retail B Shares convert to Retail A Shares six years after purchase; therefore,
Retail A Shares expenses are used for Retail B Shares in the hypothetical
example after year six.
TYPES OF INVESTMENT RISK
The principal risks of investing in each Fund are described previously in this
Prospectus. The following list provides more detail about some of those risks,
along with information on additional types of risks which may apply to the
Funds. Risks associated with particular types of investments each Fund makes
are described in this section and in the Additional Statement referred to on the
back page.
GENERAL RISKS OF INVESTING IN EACH OF THE FUNDS
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Complete Investment Program - All Funds
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
An investment in a single Fund, by itself, does not constitute a complete
investment plan.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Credit Risk - All Funds
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
An issuer of fixed-income securities may default on its obligation to pay
interest and repay principal. Also, changes in the financial strength of an
issuer or changes in the credit rating of a security may affect its value.
Credit risk includes "counterparty risk"-- the risk that the other party to a
transaction will not fulfill its contractual obligation.
Securities rated below investment grade are particularly subject to credit risk.
These securities are predominantly speculative and are commonly referred to as
"junk bonds." To the extent a Fund purchases or holds convertible or other
securities that are below investment grade, a greater risk exists as to the
timely repayment of the principal of, and the timely payment of interest or
dividends on, such securities.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Derivatives Risk - All Funds
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Funds may invest in certain derivative investments. The term derivative
covers a wide number of investments, but in general it refers to any financial
instrument whose value is derived, at least in part, from the price of another
security or a specified index, asset or rate. Some derivatives may be more
sensitive to or otherwise not react in tandem with interest rate changes or
market moves, and some may be susceptible to changes in yields or values due to
their structure or contract terms. Loss may result from a Fund's investments in
structured securities and other derivative instruments which may be leveraged.
A Fund may use derivatives to: increase yield; hedge against a decline in
principal value; invest with greater efficiency and lower cost than is possible
through direct investment; adjust the Fund's duration; or provide daily
liquidity.
Hedging is the use of one investment to offset the effects of another
investment. To the extent that a derivative is used as a hedge against an
opposite position that the Fund also holds, a loss generated by the derivative
should be substantially offset by gains on the hedged investment, and vice
versa. While hedging can reduce or eliminate losses, it can also reduce or
eliminate gains. Hedging also involves correlation risk - the risk that changes
in the value of a hedging instrument may not match those of the asset being
hedged.
Investment by the taxable bond funds in collateralized mortgage obligations and
mortgage- and asset-backed securities are subject to derivatives risk.
To the extent that a derivative is not used as a hedge, the Fund is directly
exposed to the risks of that derivative. Gains or losses from speculative
positions in a derivative may be substantially greater than the derivative's
original cost.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Extension Risk - All Funds
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This is the risk that an issuer will exercise its right to pay principal on an
obligation held by a Fund (such as a municipal security, mortgage- or asset-
backed security) later than expected. This may happen when there is a rise in
interest rates. These events may lengthen the duration and potentially reduce
the value of these securities.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Interest Rate Risk - All Funds
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When interest rates increase, fixed-income securities tend to decline in value
and when interest rates decrease, fixed-income securities tend to increase in
value. A change in interest rates could cause the value of your investment to
change. Fixed-income securities with longer maturities are more susceptible to
interest rate fluctuations than those with shorter maturities. Changes in
interest rates may also extend or shorten the duration of certain types of
instruments, such as asset-backed securities, thereby affecting their value and
the return on your investment.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Liquidity Risk - All Funds
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Certain securities may be difficult or impossible to sell at the time and price
that the Fund would like. A Fund may have to lower the price, sell other
securities instead or forego an investment opportunity, any of which could have
a negative effect on fund management or performance. Illiquid securities also
include repurchase agreements and time deposits with notice/termination dates of
greater than seven days and certain unlisted over-the-counter options and other
securities traded in the U.S. but are subject to trading restrictions because
they are not registered under the Securities Act of 1933. There may be no
active secondary market for these securities. A domestically traded security
which is not registered under the Securities Act of 1933 will not be considered
illiquid if the Adviser determines an adequate investment trading market exists
for that security. Because illiquid and restricted securities may be difficult
to sell at an acceptable price, they may be subject to greater volatility and
may result in a loss to a Fund.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Management Risk - All Funds
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A strategy which the Adviser uses may fail to produce the intended results. The
particular securities and types of securities a Fund holds may underperform
other securities and types of securities. There can be no assurance a Fund will
achieve its investment objective. The Adviser may not change certain investment
practices of the Fund without shareholder vote. These policies of each Fund,
which may not be changed without a shareholder vote, are described in the
Additional Statement.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Market Risk - All Funds
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The value of the securities in which a Fund invests may go up or down in
response to the prospects of individual companies and/or general economic
conditions. Price changes may be temporary or last for extended periods. Each
Fund's performance results may reflect periods of above average performance
attributable to its investment in certain securities during the initial public
offering, the performance of a limited number of the securities in the Fund, or
other non-recurring factors. It is possible that the performance may not be
repeated in the future.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nonprincipal Strategy Risks - All Funds
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This Prospectus describes each Fund's principal investment strategies, and the
types of securities in which each Fund principally invests. Each Fund may, from
time to time, make other types of investments and pursue other investment
strategies in support of its overall investment goal. These supplemental
investment strategies - and the risks involved - are described in detail in the
Additional Statement, which is referred to on the back cover of this Prospectus.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio Turnover Risk - All Funds
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Adviser will not consider the portfolio turnover rate a limiting factor in
making investment decisions for a Fund. A high rate of portfolio turnover (100%
or more) involves correspondingly greater expenses which must be borne by a Fund
and its shareholders. It may also result in higher short-term capital gains
taxable to shareholders. See "Financial Highlights" for the Funds' historical
portfolio turnover rates.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Prepayment Risk - All Funds
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This is the risk that an issuer will exercise its right to pay principal on an
obligation held by a Fund (such as a mortgage- or asset-backed security) earlier
than expected. This may happen when there is a decline in interest rates.
These events may make a Fund unable to recoup its initial investment and may
result in reduced yields.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Valuation Risk - All Funds
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This is a risk that a Fund has valued certain securities at a higher or lower
price than the Fund can sell them.
ADDITIONAL RISKS WHICH APPLY TO INVESTMENTS IN CERTAIN OF THE FUNDS
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Foreign Risks -Taxable Bond Funds
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
When a Fund invests in foreign securities, it will be subject to special risks
not typically associated with domestic issuers resulting from less government
regulation, less public information and less economic, political and social
stability. Foreign securities, and in particular foreign debt securities, are
sensitive to changes in interest rates. In addition, investment in securities
of foreign governments involves the risk that foreign governments may default on
their obligations or may otherwise not respect the integrity of their debt. A
Fund which invests in foreign securities will also be subject to the diplomatic
risk that an adverse change in the diplomatic relations between the U.S. and
another country might reduce the value or liquidity of investments. Future
political and economic developments, the possible imposition of withholding
taxes on dividend income, the possible seizure or nationalization of foreign
holdings, the possible establishment of exchange controls or freezes on the
convertibility of currency, or the adoption of other governmental restrictions
might adversely affect an investment in foreign securities. Additionally,
foreign banks and foreign branches of domestic banks may be subject to less
stringent reserve requirements, and to different accounting, auditing and
recordkeeping requirements.
Investment in foreign securities also involves higher costs than investment in
U.S. securities, including higher transaction and custody costs as well as the
imposition of additional taxes by foreign governments.
Each of the Funds may invest in foreign currency denominated securities. A Fund
that invests in foreign currency denominated securities will also be subject to
the risk of negative foreign currency rate fluctuations. A change in the
exchange rate between U.S. dollars and foreign currency may reduce the value of
an investment made in a security denominated in that foreign currency.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tax Risk - National Municipal Bond Fund
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This Fund may be more adversely impacted by changes in tax rates and policies
than the other Funds. Because interest income on municipal obligations is
normally not subject to regular federal income taxation, the attractiveness of
municipal obligations in relation to other investment alternatives is affected
by changes in federal income tax rates applicable to, or the continuing federal
income tax-exempt status of, such interest income. Any proposed or actual
changes in such rates or exempt status, therefore, can significantly affect the
demand for and supply, liquidity and marketability of municipal obligations,
which could in turn affect the Fund's ability to acquire and dispose of
municipal obligations at desirable yield and price levels.
Investment in tax-exempt securities poses additional risks. In many cases, the
Internal Revenue Service has not ruled on whether the interest received on a
tax-exempt obligation is tax-exempt, and accordingly, purchases of these
securities are based on the opinion of bond counsel to the issuers at the time
of issuance. The Fund and the Adviser rely on these opinions and will not
review the basis for them.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Temporary Investment Risk - Aggregate Bond Fund and National Municipal Bond Fund
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Each Fund may, for temporary defensive purposes, invest a percentage of its
total assets, without limitation, in cash or various short-term instruments.
This may occur for example, when a Fund is attempting to respond to adverse
market, economic, political or other conditions. When a Fund's assets are
invested in these instruments, the Fund may not achieve its investment
objective.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Securities Lending- Taxable Bond Funds
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To obtain interest income, the Fund may lend its securities to broker-dealers,
banks or institutional borrowers pursuant to agreements requiring that the loans
be continuously secured by collateral equal at all times in value to at least
the market value of the securities loaned. There is the risk that, when lending
portfolio securities, the securities may not be available to the Fund on a
timely basis. Therefore, the Fund may lose the opportunity to sell the
securities at a desirable price. Additionally, in the event that a borrower of
securities would file for bankruptcy or become insolvent, disposition of the
securities may be delayed pending court action.
ADDITIONAL RISKS WHICH APPLY TO PARTICULAR TYPES OF SECURITIES
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Government Obligations - Taxable Bond Funds
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In addition to U.S. Treasury obligations, the Funds may invest in other
securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies and
instrumentalities. No assurance can be given that the U.S. government will
provide financial support to U.S. government-sponsored agencies or
instrumentalities where it is not obligated to do so by law.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mortgage-Backed and Asset-Backed Securities - Taxable Bond Funds
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Each of these Funds may purchase residential and commercial mortgage-backed as
well as other asset-backed securities (i.e., securities backed by credit card
receivables, automobile loans or other assets). In addition to credit and
market risk, mortgage- and asset-backed securities involve prepayment risk
because the underlying assets (loans) may be prepaid at any time. The value of
these securities may also change because of actual or perceived changes in the
creditworthiness of the originator, the servicing agent, the financial
institution providing the credit support, or the counterparty. Like other
fixed-income securities, when interest rates rise the value of an asset-backed
security generally will decline. However, when interest rates decline the value
of an asset-backed security with prepayment features may not increase as much as
that of other fixed-income securities. The relative payment rights of certain
types of mortgage-backed securities may make them subject to greater volatility
and interest rate risk than other types of mortgage-backed securities. In
addition, non-mortgage asset-backed securities involve certain risks not
presented by mortgage-backed securities. Primarily, these securities do not
have the benefit of the same security interest in the underlying collateral.
Credit card receivables are generally unsecured, and the debtors are entitled to
the protection of a number of state and federal consumer credit laws.
Automobile receivables are subject to the risk that the trustee for the holders
of the automobile receivables may not have an effective security interest in all
of the obligations backing the receivables. In times of financial stress, the
secondary market for asset-backed securities may not be as liquid as the market
for other types of securities which could result in a Fund experiencing
difficulty in valuing or liquidating such securities.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Municipal Securities - National Municipal Bond Fund
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Fund may purchase municipal securities including general obligation
securities, revenue securities and private activity bonds. The ability of the
Fund to achieve its investment objective is dependent upon the ability of
issuers of municipal securities to meet their continuing obligations for the
payment of principal and interest. Although the Fund may invest 25% or more of
its net assets in (i) municipal securities whose issuers are in the same state,
(ii) municipal securities the interest on which is paid solely from revenues of
similar projects, and (iii) private activity bonds, the Fund does not presently
intend to do so unless in the opinion of the Adviser the investment is
warranted. To the extent that the Fund's assets are invested in municipal
securities the issuers of which are in the same state or that are payable from
the revenues of similar projects or in private activity bonds, the Fund will be
subject to the peculiar risks presented by the laws and economic conditions
relating to such projects and bonds to a greater extent than it would be if its
assets were not so invested.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Borrowings, Reverse Repurchase Agreements - All Funds
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Each Fund may borrow money to the extent allowed (as described in the Additional
Statement) and each Fund other than the National Municipal Bond Fund may enter
into reverse repurchase agreements. These strategies involve leveraging. If
the securities held by a Fund declines in value while these transactions are
outstanding, the net asset value of the Fund's outstanding shares will decline
in value by proportionately more than the decline in value of the securities.
In addition, reverse repurchase agreements involve the risks that the interest
income earned by a Fund (from the investment of the proceeds) will be less than
the interest expense of the transaction, that the market value of the securities
sold by a Fund will decline below the price the Fund is obligated to pay to
repurchase the securities, and that the securities may not be returned to the
Fund.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Options - Taxable Bond Funds
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Taxable Bond Funds may invest in options. An option is a type of derivative
instrument that gives the holder the right (but not the obligation) to buy (a
"call") or sell (a "put") an asset in the future at an agreed upon price prior
to the expiration date of the option. Options can be used to manage exposure to
certain markets, enhance income or hedge against a decline in value of portfolio
securities. Options may relate to particular securities or various stock or
bond indices and may or may not be listed on a national securities exchange and
issued by the Options Clearing Corporation. Purchasing options is a specialized
investment technique which entails a substantial risk of a complete loss of the
amount paid as premiums to the writer of the option.
The value of options can be highly volatile, and their use can result in loss if
the Adviser is incorrect in its expectation of price fluctuations. The
successful use of options for hedging purposes also depends in part on the
ability of the Adviser to manage future price fluctuations and the degree of
correlation between the options and securities markets.
The U.S. Government Securities Fund and the Aggregate Bond Fund may purchase put
and call options in an amount not to exceed 10% of each Fund's net assets.
The Funds will engage in unlisted over-the-counter options only with broker-
dealers deemed creditworthy by the Adviser. Closing transactions in certain
options are usually effected directly with the same broker-dealer that effected
the original option transaction. A Fund bears the risk that the broker-dealer
will fail to meet its obligations. There is no assurance a liquid secondary
trading market exists for closing out an unlisted option position. Furthermore,
unlisted options are not subject to the protections afforded purchasers of
listed options by the Options Clearing Corporation, which performs the
obligations of its members who fail to perform in connection with the purchase
or sale of options.
In addition, each Fund may write call options on securities and on various stock
or bond indices. Each Fund may write a call option only if the option is
covered. A Fund may cover a call option by owning the security underlying the
option or through other means which would allow for immediate satisfaction of
its obligation. Such options will be listed on a national securities exchange.
The aggregate value of the assets subject to covered options written by the U.S.
Government Securities Fund and the Aggregate Bond Fund will not exceed 25% of
the value of each Fund's net assets. In order to close out an option position,
a Fund may enter into a "closing purchase transaction" (the purchase of a call
option on a security or an index with the same exercise price and expiration
date as the call option which it previously wrote on the same security or
index).
Risks associated with the use of options on securities include (i) imperfect
correlation between the change in market value of the securities the Fund holds
and the prices of options relating to the securities purchased or sold by the
Fund; and (ii) the possible lack of a liquid secondary market for an option.
The Additional Statement includes additional information relating to option
trading practices and related risks.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Futures Contracts and Related Options - Taxable Bond Funds
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Taxable Bond Funds may invest in future contracts and related options. A
futures contract is a type of derivative instrument that obligates the holder to
buy or sell an asset in the future at an agreed upon price. For example, a
futures contract may obligate a Fund, at maturity, to take or make delivery of
certain domestic or foreign securities, the cash value of a securities index or
a stated quantity of a foreign currency. When a Fund purchases an option on a
futures contract, it has the right to assume a position as a purchaser or seller
of a futures contract at a specified exercise price during the option period.
When a Fund sells an option on a futures contract it becomes obligated to
purchase or sell a futures contract if the option is exercised.
Futures contracts and options present the following risks: imperfect correlation
between the change in market value of a Fund's securities and the price of
futures contracts and options; the possible inability to close a futures
contract when desired; losses due to unanticipated market movements which are
potentially unlimited; and the possible inability of the investment management
team to correctly predict the direction of securities prices, interest rates,
currency exchange rates and other economic factors.
Each Fund's commodities transactions must constitute bona fide hedging or other
permissible transactions pursuant to regulations promulgated by the Commodities
and Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC"). In addition, a Fund may not engage in
such transactions if the sum of the amount of initial margin deposits and
premiums paid for unexpired commodity options, other than for bona fide hedging
transactions, would exceed 5% of the liquidation value of its assets, after
taking into account unrealized profits and unrealized losses on such contracts
it has entered into; provided, however, that in the case of an option that is
in-the-money at the time of purchase, the in-the-money amount may be excluded in
calculating the percentage limitation. Pursuant to SEC requirements, a Fund may
be required to segregate cash or high quality money market instruments in
connection with its commodities transactions in an amount generally equal to the
value of the underlying commodity. The Company intends to comply with the
regulations of the CFTC exempting the Fund from registration as a "commodity
pool operator."
For a more detailed description of futures contracts and futures options,
including a discussion of the limitations imposed by federal tax law, see
Appendix B to the Additional Statement.
INVESTING WITH FIRSTAR FUNDS
This section describes for you the procedures for opening an account and how to
buy, sell or exchange Fund shares.
SHARE CLASSES AVAILABLE
Firstar Funds, Inc. (the "Firstar Funds" or the "Company") offer four classes of
Shares in the Funds; Retail A, Retail B, Y and Institutional.
RETAIL A SHARES
- Initial sales charge of 4.00%
- No deferred sales charge
- Reduced sales charge for larger investments. See "Sales Charges and Waivers"
for more information
- Available to any investor who does not qualify to purchase Institutional or Y
Shares
RETAIL B SHARES
- No initial sales charge
- Deferred sales charge - Maximum of 5% for redemptions during the first year,
4% in the second year, 3% in the third and fourth year, 2% in the fifth year,
1% in the sixth year and 0% thereafter
- Converts to Retail A shares after six years
- Available to any investor who does not qualify to purchase Institutional or Y
shares
Y SHARES
- No sales charge
- Available for:
- All Shareholders who will be exchanged into Y Shares in or about
November 2000 in connection with the Firstar Reorganization and who have
continuously maintained an account with the Company; and
- Financial institutions, such as banks, trust companies and thrift
institutions, that are purchasing shares on behalf of discretionary and
non-discretionary accounts for which they do not receive account level
asset-based management fees.
INSTITUTIONAL SHARES
- No sales charge
- Available for:
- Trust, agency or custodial accounts opened through Firstar Bank, N.A.;
- Employer-sponsored qualified retirement plans other than those serviced
by certain external organizations who have service agreements with
Firstar or its affiliates, and other than plans administered by Firstar
with assets of less than $1 million at the time Firstar begins plan
administration (but including plans administered by Firstar which owned
Institutional shares prior to June 18, 1999). Plans administered by
Firstar with assets of less than $1 million at the time Firstar begins
plan administration will become eligible for Institutional shares when
such plans grow to $1 million or greater as further described in the
SAI;
- All clients of Firstar Investment Research & Management Company, LLC
"FIRMCO"; and
- Those purchasing through certain broker-dealers who have agreed to
provide certain services with respect to shares of the Funds, including
TD Waterhouse. Check with your broker-dealer to see if you qualify for
Institutional shares.
A securities dealer, broker, financial institution or other industry
professional ("Shareholder Organization") may charge transaction or other fees
for providing administrative or other services in connection with investments in
Fund shares.
SALES CHARGES AND WAIVERS
INITIAL SALES CHARGES - FOR RETAIL A SHARES:
The public offering price for Retail A Shares is the net asset value of the
Retail A Shares purchased plus any applicable front-end sales charge. A sales
charge will not be assessed on Retail A Shares purchased through reinvestment of
dividends or capital gains distributions. The sales charge is as follows:
Shareholder
Organization
Sales Charge Sales Charge Reallowance
Amount of as a as Percentage as a
Transaction at Percentage of of Net Percentage of
Offering Price Offering Price Asset Value Offering Price
--------------- ---------------- ---------------- --------------
Less than $50,000 4.00% 4.17% 3.75%
$50,000 to $99,000 3.50% 3.63% 3.25%
$100,000 to $249,999 3.00% 3.09% 2.75%
$250,000 to $499,999 2.50% 2.56% 2.25%
$500,000 to $999,999 2.00% 2.04% 1.75%
$1,000,000 and above 0.50% 0.50% 0.40%
You only pay a sales charge when you buy shares. The Distributor may reallow
the entire sales charge to certain shareholder organizations and the amount
reallowed may change periodically. To the extent that 90% or more of the sales
charge is reallowed, shareholder organizations may be deemed to be underwriters
under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "1940 Act").
REDUCING YOUR SALES CHARGES AND WAIVERS - RETAIL A SHARES
To qualify for a reduction of, or exception to, the sales charge you must notify
your Shareholder Organization or the Distributor at the time of purchase or
exchange. The reduction in sales charge is subject to confirmation of your
holdings through a check of records. The Company may modify or terminate
quantity discounts at any time.
WAIVERS - RETAIL A SHARES
You may purchase Retail A Shares without a sales charge if:
- you are an employee, director, retiree or registered representative of
Firstar Corporation or its affiliates or of Firstar Funds
- you are a spouse, parent, in-law, sibling or child of an individual who falls
within the preceding category
- you make any purchase for your medical savings account for which Firstar
Corporation or an affiliate serves in a custodial capacity
- you purchase through certain external organizations that have entered into a
service agreement with Firstar Funds or its affiliates
- you are part of an employer-sponsored qualified retirement plan administered
by Firstar Funds with assets of less than $1 million at the time Firstar
begins plan administration, provided such administration commenced on or
after June 18, 1999
- you purchase through certain broker-dealers who have agreed to provide
certain services with respect to shares of the Funds, including Charles
Schwab Mutual Fund Marketplacea. Check with your broker-dealer to see if you
qualify for this waiver.
- you received shares of a Fund as part of the Firstar Reorganization and,
prior to the reorganization, you qualified to purchase shares without a sales
load at net asset value and you have continuously owned shares of the Fund
since that reorganization.
REDUCING YOUR SALES CHARGES - RETAIL A SHARES
- Right of Accumulation - Equity, Balanced and Bond Fund shares of Firstar
Funds and Retail A shares of any Firstar family of funds can be combined with
new purchases for purposes of calculating reduced sales charges.
- Letter of Intent - Fund shares purchased in a 13-month period qualify for the
same reduced sales charge as if purchased all at once. You may obtain a
reduced sales charge by means of a written Letter of Intent which expresses
your non-binding commitment to invest in the aggregate $100,000 or more in
Equity, Balanced or Bond Fund Retail A shares of Firstar Funds or Retail A
shares of any Firstar family of funds. Any investments you make during the
period receive the discounted sales charge based on the full amount of your
investment commitment. The Additional Statement includes details about the
Letter of Intent.
For purposes of applying the Rights of Accumulation and Letter of Intent
privileges, the sales charge schedule applies to the combined purchases made by
any individual and/or spouse purchasing securities for his, her or their own
account, or the aggregate investments of a trustee or other fiduciary or IRA for
the benefit of the persons previously listed.
CONTINGENT DEFERRED SALES CHARGE - RETAIL B SHARES
The public offering price for Retail B Shares is the net asset value of the
Retail B Shares purchased. Although investors pay no front-end sales charge on
purchases of Retail B Shares, such Shares are subject to a contingent deferred
sales charge at the rates set forth below if they are redeemed within six years
of purchase.
The amount of any contingent deferred sales charge an investor must pay depends
on the number of years that elapse between the purchase date and the date such
Retail B Shares are redeemed. Solely for purposes of this determination, all
payments during a month will be aggregated and deemed to have been made on the
first day of the month.
Number of Years Contingent Deferred Sales Charge
Elapsed Since Purchase (as % of dollar amount subject to the charge)
-------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------
Less than one 5.00%
At least one but less than two 4.00%
At least two but less than three 3.00%
At least three but less than four 3.00%
At least four but less than five 2.00%
At least five but less than six 1.00%
At least six None
The contingent deferred sales charge on Retail B Shares is based on the lesser
of the net asset value of the Shares on the redemption date or the original cost
of the Shares being redeemed. As a result, no sales charge is imposed on any
increase in the net asset value of an investor's Retail B Shares. In addition,
a contingent deferred sales charge will not be assessed on Retail B Shares
purchased through reinvestment of dividends or capital gains distributions.
When a shareholder redeems his or her Retail B Shares, the redemption request is
processed to minimize the amount of the contingent deferred sales charge that
will be charged. Retail B Shares are redeemed first from those shares that are
not subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (that is, Retail B Shares that
were acquired through reinvestment of dividends or distributions or that qualify
for other deferred sales charge exemptions, if any) and after that from the
Retail B Shares that have been held the longest.
Shareholder organizations will receive commissions in connection with sales of
Retail B Shares. A commission equal to 5% of the amount invested is paid to
authorized dealers.
The contingent deferred sales charge a shareholder may pay upon redemption is
remitted to the Distributor or other party, which may use such amounts to defray
the expenses associated with the distribution-related services involved in
selling Retail B Shares.
WAIVERS - RETAIL B SHARES
Certain types of redemptions may also qualify for a waiver from the contingent
deferred sales charge. If you think you may be eligible for a contingent
deferred sales charge waiver listed below, be sure to notify your shareholder
organization or the Distributor at the time Retail B Shares are redeemed. The
contingent deferred sales charge with respect to Retail B Shares is not assessed
on:
- exchanges described under "Exchange of Shares"
- redemptions in connection with shares sold for certain retirement
distributions or because of disability or death.
- redemptions effected pursuant to a Fund's right to liquidate a shareholder's
account if the aggregate net asset value of Retail B Shares held in the
account is less than the minimum account size set forth under "Redemption of
Shares - Other Transaction Information - Accounts Below the Minimum Balance;"
- redemptions in connection with the combination of a Fund with any other
investment company registered under the 1940 Act by merger, acquisition of
assets, or by any other transaction;
- redemptions resulting from certain tax-free returns from IRAs of excess
contribution; or
- you received shares of a Fund as part of the Firstar Reorganization and,
prior to the reorganization, you qualified to redeem your shares without a
sales load at net asset value and you have continuously owned shares of the
Fund since that reorganization.
In addition to the foregoing waivers, no contingent deferred sales charge will
be imposed on redemptions made pursuant to the Company's systematic withdrawal
plan. The Funds reserve the right to limit such redemptions without a
contingent deferred sales charge, on an annual basis, to 12% of the value of
your Retail B Shares on the redemption date. See the Additional Statement for
more information.
CONVERSION - RETAIL B SHARES
Retail B Shares will automatically convert into Retail A Shares of the same Fund
six years after the beginning of the calendar month in which the purchase date
occurred. If you acquire Retail B Shares of a Fund by exchange from Retail B
Shares of another Fund, your Retail B Shares will convert into Retail A Shares
of that Fund based on the date of the initial purchase.
If you acquire Retail B Shares through reinvestment of distributions, your
Retail B Shares will convert into Retail A Shares at the earlier of two dates -
either six years after the beginning of the calendar month in which the purchase
date occurred (based on the date of the initial purchase of the shares on which
the distribution was paid) or the date of conversion of the most recently
purchased Retail B Shares that were not acquired through reinvestment of
dividends or distributions. For example, if a shareholder makes a one-time
purchase of Retail B Shares of a Fund and subsequently acquires additional
Retail B Shares of that Fund only through reinvestment of dividends and/or
distributions, all of such shareholder's Retail B Shares of that Fund, including
those acquired through reinvestment, will convert to Retail A Shares of such
Fund on the same date. Upon conversion, the converted shares will be relieved
of the distribution and shareholder servicing fees borne by Retail B Shares,
although they will be subject to the shareholder servicing fees borne by Retail
A Shares.
REINSTATEMENT PRIVILEGE
If you sell shares of a Firstar Fund, or of any Firstar family of funds, you
may reinvest some or all of the proceeds in the Retail A Shares of any Firstar
Fund within 60 days without a sales charge, as long as you notify the transfer
agent or your shareholder organization at the time you reinvest. You may be
subject to taxes as a result of a redemption. Consult your tax adviser
concerning the results of a redemption or reinvestment.
HOW TO DECIDE WHETHER TO BUY RETAIL A OR RETAIL B SHARES
The decision as to which type of Shares to purchase depends on the amount you
invest, the intended length of the investment and your personal situation.
Retail A Shares - If you are making an investment of an amount that qualifies
for a reduced sales charge, you may consider purchasing Retail A Shares.
Retail B Shares - If you plan to hold your investment for a significant period
of time and would prefer not to pay an initial sales charge, you might consider
purchasing Retail B Shares. By not paying a front-end sales charge, your entire
purchase in Retail B Shares is invested from the time you make your initial
investment. However, the distribution and service fee paid by Retail B Shares
will cause your Retail B Shares (until conversion to Retail A Shares) to have a
higher expense ratio and thus, lower performance and lower dividend payments (to
the extent dividends are paid) than Retail A Shares.
SHAREHOLDER ORGANIZATIONS - RETAIL A SHARES, RETAIL B SHARES AND Y SHARES
The Funds have adopted a distribution and service plan for the Retail A shares.
The Funds also have adopted a service plan for the Retail A shares, under which
the Funds may pay service fees for shareholder services to Retail A
shareholders. Under either of these plans, shareholder organizations may be
entitled to receive fees from a Fund at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the
average daily net asset value of the shares covered by their respective
agreements for distribution and/or shareholder support services, as the case may
be. Fees under both these plans will not exceed, in the aggregate, the annual
rate of 0.25% of a Fund's average daily net assets for the Retail A shares.
Shareholder support services may include:
- assisting investors in processing purchase, exchange and redemption requests
- processing dividend and distribution payments from the Fund
- providing information periodically to customers showing their positions in
Fund shares
- providing sub-accounting
- forwarding sales literature and advertising
The Funds have adopted a distribution and service plan for the Retail B shares.
Under the distribution and service plan for the Retail B shares, the Distributor
is entitled to receive fees at an annual rate of up to 0.75% of the average
daily net asset value of the Retail B shares for distribution services with
respect to the Retail B shares. Also under the distribution and service plan
for Retail B shares, shareholder organizations may be entitled to receive fees
from a Fund at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the average daily net asset
value of the shares covered by their agreement for shareholder liaison services.
Shareholder liaison services may include responding to customers' inquiries and
providing information on their investments, and other personal and account
maintenance services within National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
("NASD") Rules.
Distribution fees are regulated by Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act and are subject
to the NASD Conduct Rules. Because these fees are paid out of a Fund's assets
on an ongoing basis, over time, these fees will increase the cost of your
investment and may cost you more than paying other types of sales charges.
The Funds also have adopted service plans for the Retail B Shares and Y Shares,
respectively, under which a Fund may pay service fees for shareholder services
(as listed above) to Retail B or Y shareholders. Under the service plans for
the Retail B and Y Shares, shareholder organizations may be entitled to receive
fees from the Funds at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the average daily net
asset value of the shares covered by their respective agreements.
Payments to shareholder organizations, including affiliates of the Adviser,
under the plans, and to the Distributor under the distribution and service plan
for the Retail B shares are not tied directly to their own out-of-pocket
expenses and therefore may be used as they elect (for example, to defray their
overhead expenses), and may exceed their direct and indirect costs.
Under these plans, a Fund may enter into agreements with shareholder
organizations, including affiliates of the Adviser (such as Firstar Investment
Services, Inc.). The shareholder organizations are required to provide a
schedule of any fees that they may charge to their customers relating to the
investment of their assets in shares covered by the agreements. Investors
should read this Prospectus in light of such fee schedules and under the terms
of their shareholder organizations' agreements with Firstar. In addition,
investors should contact their shareholder organizations with respect to the
availability of shareholder services and the particular shareholder
organization's procedures for purchasing and redeeming shares. It is the
responsibility of shareholder organizations' to transmit purchase and redemption
orders and record those orders in customers' accounts on a timely basis in
accordance with their agreements with customers.
Conflict-of-interest restrictions may apply to the receipt of compensation paid
by Firstar to a shareholder organization in connection with the investment of
fiduciary funds in Fund shares. Institutions, including banks regulated by the
Comptroller of the Currency and investment advisers and other money managers
subject to the jurisdiction of the SEC, the Department of Labor or state
securities commissions, are urged to consult legal counsel before entering into
agreements with Firstar.
PURCHASING SHARES
Shares of the Funds are offered and sold on a continuous basis by the
distributor for the Funds, Quasar Distributors, LLC (the "Distributor"), an
affiliate of the Adviser. The Distributor is a registered broker-dealer with
offices at 615 East Michigan Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202.
MINIMUM INVESTMENTS
RETAIL A AND RETAIL B SHARES
The minimum initial investment for Retail A and Retail B Shares in a Fund is
$1,000. The minimum subsequent investment is $50. The minimum initial
investment will be waived if you participate in the Periodic Investment Plan.
INSTITUTIONAL AND Y SHARES
There is no minimum initial or subsequent investment for Institutional or Y
Shares of the Funds.
BUYING SHARES
Purchase requests accompanied by a check or wire payment for any Fund which are
received by the transfer agent before 3:00 p.m. Central time on a business day
for the Funds will be executed the same day, at that day's closing price
provided that payment is received by the close of regular trading hours. Orders
received after 3:00 p.m. Central time and orders for which payment is not
received by the close of regular trading hours on the New York Stock Exchange
(the "Exchange") (normally 3:00 p.m. Central time) will be executed on the next
business day after receipt of both order and payment in proper form.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
OPENING AN ACCOUNT ADDING TO AN ACCOUNT
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Through a - Contact your Shareholder - Contact your Shareholder
Shareholder Organization Organization
Organization
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By Mail - Complete an application and - Make your check payable to
mail it along with a check Firstar Funds. Please
payable to include your sixteen-digit
Firstar Funds account number on your check
P.O. Box 3011 and mail it to the address
Milwaukee, WI 53201-3011. at the left.
For overnight delivery mail
to:
615 E. Michigan St.
Milwaukee, WI 53202.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Automatically - Call 1-800-677-FUND to obtain - Complete a Periodic
(Retail A a purchase application, which Investment Plan Application
and B includes information for a to automatically purchase
Shares) Periodic Investment Plan or more shares.
ConvertiFund/R Account.
- Open a ConvertiFund/R account
to automatically invest
proceeds from one account to
another account of the
Firstar family of funds.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By Wire - Call 1-800-677-FUND prior to - Call 1-800-677-FUND prior to
sending the wire in order to sending the wire in order to
obtain a confirmation number obtain a confirmation number
and to ensure prompt and and to ensure prompt and
accurate handling of funds. accurate handling of funds.
Ask your bank to transmit Ask your bank to transmit
immediately available funds by immediately available funds
wire in the amount of your by wire as described at the
purchase to: left. Please include your
obtain a confirmation number sixteen-digit account number.
ABA # 0420-00013 The Fund and its transfer
Firstar Trust Department agent are not responsible for
Account # 112-952-137 the consequences of delays
for further credit to [name of resulting from the banking or
Fund] Federal Reserve Wire system,
[name /title on the account]. or from incomplete wiring
The Fund and its transfer instructions.
agent are not responsible for
the consequences of delays
resulting from the banking or
Federal Reserve Wire system,
or from incomplete wiring
instructions.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internet - Use Firstar Funds Direct to
www.firstarfunds.com exchange from another Firstar
Fund account with the same
- Not available registration including name,
address and taxpayer ID
number.
- Purchase additional shares
using an electronic funds
transfer from your banking
institution for payment.
- Call 1-800-677-FUND to
authorize this service.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By Telephone - Call 1-800-677-FUND to - Call 1-800-677-FUND to
Exchange exchange from another Firstar exchange from another Firstar
Fund account with the same Fund account with the same
registration including name, registration including name,
address and taxpayer ID address and taxpayer ID
number. number.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Please Note: All checks must be drawn on a bank located within the United States
and must be payable in U.S. dollars to Firstar Funds. A $25 fee will be imposed
by the Funds' transfer agent if any check used for investment in an account does
not clear, and the investor involved will be responsible for any loss incurred
by a Fund. Prior to the transfer agent receiving a completed application,
investors may make an initial investment. However, redemptions will not be paid
until the transfer agent has received the completed application.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Additional Information on Buying Shares
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- The Funds will not accept payment in cash or third party checks for the
purchase of shares.
- Federal regulations require that each investor provide a Social Security
number or other certified taxpayer identification number upon opening or
reopening an account. The Funds reserve the right to reject applications
without such a number or an indication that a number has been applied for.
If a number has been applied for, the number must be provided and certified
within sixty days of the date of the application. Any accounts opened
without a proper number will be subject to backup withholding at a rate of
31% on all liquidations and dividend and capital gain distributions.
- Payment for shares of a Fund in the amount of $1,000,000 or more may, at the
discretion of the Adviser, be made in the form of securities that are
permissible investments for the respective Fund.
The Funds may authorize one or more brokers and other shareholder organizations
to accept on their behalf purchase, redemption and exchange orders, and may
authorize such shareholder organizations to designate other intermediaries to
accept purchase, redemption and exchange orders on the Funds' behalf. In these
cases, a Fund will be deemed to have received an order when an authorized
shareholder organization or intermediary accepts the order, and customer orders
will be priced at the Fund's net asset value next computed after they are
accepted by a shareholder organization or intermediary. Shareholder
organizations and intermediaries will be responsible for transmitting accepted
orders to the Funds within the period agreed upon by them. Shareholders should
contact their shareholder organization or intermediaries to learn whether they
are authorized to accept orders for Funds.
It is the responsibility of shareholder organizations to transmit orders and
payment for the purchase of shares by their customers to the transfer agent on a
timely basis and to provide account statements in accordance with the procedures
previously stated.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For Owners of Y and Institutional
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
All share purchases are effected pursuant to a customer's account at Firstar
Bank, N.A. Trust Department ("Firstar Trust") or at another chosen institution
or broker-dealer pursuant to procedures established in connection with the
requirements of the account. Confirmations of share purchases and redemptions
will be sent to Firstar Trust or the other shareholder organizations involved.
Firstar Trust and the other shareholder organizations or their nominees will
normally be the holders of record of Fund shares, and will reflect their
customers' beneficial ownership of shares in the account statements provided by
them to their customers. The exercise of voting rights and the delivery to
customers of shareholder communications from the Fund will be governed by the
customers' account agreements with Firstar Trust and the other shareholder
organizations. Investors wishing to purchase shares of the Funds should contact
their account representatives.
In the case of participants in certain employee benefit plans investing in
certain Funds, purchase and redemption orders will be processed on a particular
day based on whether a service organization acting on their behalf received the
order by the close of regular trading on that day.
The Funds may authorize one or more brokers and other shareholder organizations
to accept on their behalf purchase, redemption and exchange orders, and may
authorize such shareholder organizations to designate other intermediaries to
accept purchase, redemption and exchange orders on the Funds' behalf. In these
cases, a Fund will be deemed to have received an order when an authorized
shareholder organization or intermediary accepts the order, and customer orders
will be priced at the Fund's net asset value next computed after they are
accepted by a shareholder organization or intermediary. Shareholder
organizations and intermediaries will be responsible for transmitting accepted
orders to the Funds within the period agreed upon by them. Shareholders should
contact their shareholder organization or intermediaries to learn whether they
are authorized to accept orders for Funds.
It is the responsibility of shareholder organizations to transmit orders and
payment for the purchase of shares by their customers to the transfer agent on a
timely basis and to provide account statements in accordance with the procedures
previously stated.
REDEEMING SHARES
SELLING SHARES
Redemption requests for a Fund received by the transfer agent before 3:00 p.m.
Central time on a business day for the Funds will be executed the same day, at
that day's closing price. Orders received after 3:00 p.m. Central time will be
executed on the next business day.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Through a Contact your Shareholder Organization
Shareholder
Organization
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By Phone - Call 1-800-677-FUND with your account name, sixteen digit
account number and amount of redemption (minimum $500).
Redemption proceeds will only be sent to a shareholder's
address or bank account of a commercial bank located within
the United States as shown on the transfer agent's records.
(Available only if telephone redemptions have been
authorized on the account application and if there has been
no change of address by telephone within the preceding 15
days).
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By Mail - Mail your instructions to the Firstar Funds, P.O. Box 3011,
Milwaukee, WI 53201-3011 (via overnight delivery to 615 E.
Michigan Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202). Include the number
of shares or the amount to be redeemed, your sixteen-digit
account number and Social Security number or other taxpayer
identification number. Your instructions must be signed by
all persons required to sign for transactions exactly as
their names appear on the account. If the redemption amount
exceeds $50,000, or if the proceeds are to be sent elsewhere
than the address of record, or the address of record has
been changed by telephone within the preceding 15 days, each
signature must be guaranteed in writing by either a
commercial bank that is a member of the FDIC, a trust
company, a credit union, a savings association, a member
firm of a national securities exchange or other eligible
guarantor institution.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Internet Use Firstar Funds Direct to redeem up to $25,000.
www.firstarfunds.com Call 1-800-677-FUND to authorize this service.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Automatically - Call 1-800-677-FUND for a Systematic Withdrawal Plan
(Retail A application ($5,000 account minimum and $50 minimum per
and B transaction).
Shares)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Guarantees must be signed by an eligible guarantor institution and "Signature
Guaranteed" must appear with the signature.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Funds may require additional supporting documents for redemptions made by
corporations, executors, administrators, trustees and guardians. A redemption
request will not be deemed to be properly received until the transfer agent
receives all required documents in proper form as specified above. Purchases of
additional shares concurrently with withdrawals could be disadvantageous because
of the sales charge involved in the additional purchases.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ADDITIONAL TRANSACTION INFORMATION
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Telephone Requests
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
In order to arrange for telephone redemptions after you have opened your account
or to change the bank or account designated to receive redemption proceeds, send
a written request to Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC or contact your
registered representative. Each shareholder of the account must sign the
request. The Funds may request further documentation from corporations,
executors, administrators, trustees and guardians.
The Funds reserve the right to refuse a telephone redemption if they believe it
is advisable to do so. Procedures for redeeming shares by telephone may be
modified or terminated by the Funds at any time upon notice to shareholders.
During periods of substantial economic or market change, telephone redemptions
may be difficult to implement. If a shareholder is unable to contact the
transfer agent by telephone, shares may also be redeemed by delivering the
redemption request to the transfer agent.
In an effort to prevent unauthorized or fraudulent purchase and redemption
requests by telephone, Firstar employs reasonable procedures to confirm that
such instructions are genuine. Among the procedures used to determine
authenticity, investors electing to transact by telephone will be required to
provide their account number (unless opening a new account). All telephone
transactions will be recorded and confirmed in writing. Statements of accounts
shall be conclusive if not objected to in writing within 10 days after
transmitted by mail. Firstar may implement other procedures from time to time.
If reasonable procedures are not implemented, Firstar may be liable for any loss
due to unauthorized or fraudulent transactions. In all other cases, the
shareholder is liable for any loss for unauthorized transactions.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Certificates
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Certificates are only issued upon shareholder request. If certificates have
been issued, the transfer agent must receive the certificates, properly endorsed
or accompanied by a properly executed stock power and accompanied by signature
guarantees, prior to a redemption request.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Additional Redemption Information
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Funds will make payment for redeemed shares typically within one or two
business days, but no later than the seventh day after receipt by the transfer
agent of a request in proper form as specified above, except as provided by SEC
rules. HOWEVER, IF ANY PORTION OF THE SHARES TO BE REDEEMED REPRESENTS AN
INVESTMENT MADE BY CHECK, THE FUNDS WILL DELAY THE PAYMENT OF THE REDEMPTION
PROCEEDS UNTIL THE TRANSFER AGENT IS REASONABLY SATISFIED THAT THE CHECK HAS
BEEN COLLECTED, WHICH MAY TAKE UP TO TWELVE DAYS FROM THE PURCHASE DATE. An
investor must have filed a purchase application before any redemption requests
can be paid.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Accounts Below the Minimum Balance
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If your account falls below $1,000, other than due to market fluctuations, the
Funds may redeem your account. The Fund will impose no charge and will give you
sixty days written notice and an opportunity to raise the account balance prior
to any redemption. A Fund, in certain cases, may make payment for redemption in
securities. Investors would bear any brokerage or other transaction costs
incurred in converting the securities so received to cash. See the Additional
Statement for more information on involuntary redemptions.
EXCHANGING SHARES
Generally, any share class of a Firstar Fund is exchangeable for the same share
class of another Firstar Fund, provided you are eligible to purchase that share
class or Fund. Listed below are permitted exchanges between different share
classes of the Funds:
- Retail B Shares of a non-money market fund may be exchanged for Retail A
Shares of a money market fund (except Retail B Shares are not
exchangeable for any shares of the Institutional Money Market Fund).
- Y Shares of a non-money market fund are exchangeable for Institutional
Shares of a money market fund.
Unless you qualify for a sales charge exemption, an initial sales charge will be
imposed on the exchange if the shares of the Fund being acquired have an initial
sales charge and the shares being redeemed were purchased without a sales
charge. Retail B Shares acquired in an exchange and Money Market Fund Shares
acquired in an exchange for Retail B Shares will be subject to a contingent
deferred sales charge upon redemption in accordance with this Prospectus. For
purposes of computing the contingent deferred sales charge, the length of time
of ownership will be measured from the date of the original purchase of Retail B
Shares.
Telephone exchange privileges automatically apply to each shareholder of record
unless the transfer agent receives written instructions canceling the privilege.
Firstar reserves the right to terminate the exchange privilege of any party who
requests more than four exchanges within a calendar year. Firstar may do so
with prior notice based on a consideration of both the number of exchanges and
the time period over which those exchange requests have been made, together with
the level of expense to the Fund or other adverse effects which may result from
the additional exchange requests.
For federal income tax purposes, an exchange of shares is a taxable event and,
accordingly, an investor may realize a capital gain or loss. Before making an
exchange request, an investor should consult a tax or other financial adviser to
determine the tax consequences of a particular exchange. No exchange fee is
currently imposed by Firstar on exchanges. However, Firstar reserves the right
to impose a charge in the future. In addition, shareholder organizations may
charge a fee for providing administrative or other services in connection with
exchanges. The Fund reserves the right to reject any exchange request with
prior notice to a shareholder and the exchange privilege may be modified or
terminated at any time. At least sixty days' notice will be given to
shareholders of any material modification or termination except where notice is
not required under SEC regulations. Also keep in mind:
- Exchanges are available only in states where exchanges may be legally made.
- The minimum amount which may be exchanged is $1,000.
- If any portion of the shares to be exchanged represents an investment made by
check, the Fund will delay the acquisition of new shares in an exchange until
the transfer agent is reasonably satisfied that the check has been collected,
which may take up to twelve days from the purchase date.
- It may be difficult to make telephone exchanges in times of drastic economic
or market changes. If this happens, you may initiate transactions in your
share accounts by mail or as otherwise described in this Prospectus.
ADDITIONAL SHAREHOLDER SERVICES
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Reports
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholders will be provided with a report showing portfolio investments and
other information at least semiannually; and after the close of the Fund's
fiscal year with an annual report containing audited financial statements. To
eliminate unnecessary duplication, only one copy of shareholder reports will be
sent to shareholders with the same mailing address. Shareholders may request
duplicate copies free of charge.
Account statements will be mailed after each purchase, reinvestment of dividends
and redemption. Statements of accounts shall be conclusive if not objected to in
writing within 10 days after transmitted by mail. Generally, a Fund does not
send statements for funds held in brokerage, retirement or other similar
accounts.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Firstar Funds Website (www.firstarfunds.com)
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The site offers educational information and interactive financial planning tools
as well as product-specific information.
Generally, Shareholders can request purchases, exchanges and redemptions of Fund
shares online via the Internet after an account is opened. Redemption requests
of up to $25,000 will be accepted through the Internet. Payment for shares
purchased online must be made by electronic funds transfer from your banking
institution. To authorize this service, call Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC
at 1-800-677-FUND.
Firstar Funds and their agents will not be responsible for any losses resulting
from unauthorized on-line transactions when procedures are followed which are
designed to confirm that the on-line transaction request is genuine. Statements
of accounts shall be conclusive if not objected to in writing within 10 days
after transmitted by mail. During periods of significant economic or market
change, it may be difficult to reach the Funds on-line. If this happens, you
may initiate transactions in your share accounts by mail or as otherwise
described in the Prospectus.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Automated Teleresponse Service
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholders using a touch-tonea telephone can access information on the Funds
twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week. When calling Firstar Mutual Fund
Services, LLC at 1-800-677-FUND, shareholders may choose to use the automated
information feature or, during regular business hours (8:00 a.m. to 7:00 p.m.
Central time, Monday through Friday), speak with a Firstar representative.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Retirement Plans
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Funds offer individual retirement accounts including Traditional, Roth,
SIMPLE and SEP IRAs. For details concerning Retirement Accounts (including
service fees), please call Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC at 1-800-677-FUND.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
DIVIDENDS, CAPITAL GAINS DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends and Capital Gains Distributions
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Reinvested dividends and distributions receive the same tax treatment as those
paid in cash.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends from net investment income of the Funds are declared and paid monthly.
Any capital gains are distributed annually. A shareholder's dividends and
capital gains distributions will be reinvested automatically in additional
shares unless the Fund is notified that the shareholder elects to receive
distributions in cash.
If a shareholder has elected to receive dividends and/or capital gain
distributions in cash and the postal or other delivery service is unable to
deliver checks to a shareholder's address of record, such shareholder's
distribution option will automatically be converted to having all dividend and
other distributions reinvested in additional shares. No interest will accrue on
amounts represented by uncashed distribution or redemption checks.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Federal Taxes
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Each Fund contemplates declaring as dividends each year all, or substantially
all, of its taxable income, including its net capital gain (the excess of long-
term capital gain over short-term capital loss). Distributions attributable to
the net capital gain of a Fund will be taxable to you as long-term capital gain,
regardless of how long you have held your Shares. Other Fund distributions will
generally be taxable as ordinary income. You will be subject to income tax on
these distributions regardless of whether they are paid in cash or reinvested in
additional Shares. You will be notified annually of the tax status of
distributions to you.
You should note that if you purchase Shares just prior to a capital gain
distribution, the purchase price will reflect the amount of the upcoming
distribution, but you will be subject to income tax on the entire amount of the
distribution received, even though, as an economic matter, the distribution
simply constitutes a return of capital. This is known as "buying into a
dividend."
You will recognize taxable gain or loss on a sale, exchange or redemption of
your shares, including an exchange for shares of another Fund, based on the
difference between your tax basis in the Shares and the amount you receive for
them. (To aid in computing your tax basis, you generally should retain your
account statements for the periods during which you held Shares.) Generally,
this gain or loss will be long-term or short-term depending on whether your
holding period for the shares exceeds 12 months, except that any loss realized
on Shares held for six months or less will be treated as a long-term capital
loss to the extent of any capital gain dividends that were received on the
Shares.
The one major exception to these tax principles is that distributions on, and
sales, exchanges and redemptions of, Shares held in an IRA (or other tax-
qualified plan) will not be currently taxable.
A Fund's dividends that are paid to its corporate shareholders and are
attributable to qualifying dividends the Fund receives from U.S. domestic
corporations may be eligible, in the hands of the corporate shareholders, for
the corporate dividends-received deduction, subject to certain holding period
requirements and debt financing limitations.
The National Municipal Bond Fund. It is expected that the National Municipal
Bond Fund will distribute dividends derived from interest earned on exempt
securities, and these "exempt interest dividends" will be exempt income for
Shareholders for federal income tax purposes. However, some dividends will be
taxable, such as dividends that are attributable to gains on bonds that are
acquired at a "market discount," and distributions of short and long term
capital gains.
Interest on indebtedness incurred by a Shareholder to purchase or carry shares
of the National Municipal Bond Fund generally will not be deductible for federal
income tax purposes.
You should note that a portion of the exempt-interest dividends paid by the
National Municipal Bond Fund may constitute an item of tax preference for
purposes of determining federal alternative minimum tax liability. Exempt-
interest dividends will also be considered along with other adjusted gross
income in determining whether any Social Security or railroad retirement
payments received by you are subject to federal income taxes.
If you receive an exempt-interest dividend with respect to any Shares and the
Shares are held by you for six months or less, any loss on the sale or exchange
of the Shares will be disallowed to the extent of such dividend amount.
The foregoing is only a summary of certain tax considerations under current law,
which may be subject to change in the future. Shareholders who are nonresident
aliens, foreign trusts or estates, or foreign corporations or partnerships, may
be subject to different United States federal income tax treatment. You should
consult your tax adviser for further information regarding federal, state, local
and/or foreign tax consequences relevant to your specific situation.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
State and Local Taxes
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholders may also be subject to state and local taxes on distributions and
redemptions. State income taxes may not apply, however, to the portions of
each Fund's distributions, if any, that are attributable to interest on federal
securities or interest on securities of the particular state or localities
within the state. Shareholders should consult their tax advisers regarding the
tax status of distributions in their state and locality.
MANAGEMENT OF THE FUNDS
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Advisory Services
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
FIRMCO, a Wisconsin Limited Liability Company (the "Adviser") and subsidiary of
Firstar Corporation, a bank holding company, serves as investment adviser to
each Fund. FIRMCO, with principal offices at Firstar Center, 777 East Wisconsin
Avenue, 8th Floor, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202, has provided investment advisory
services since 1986. FIRMCO currently has $35.3 billion in assets under
management.
Firstar Corporation has agreed to permit the Company to use the name "Firstar
Funds" and expansions thereof on a non-exclusive and royalty-free basis in
connection with mutual fund management and distribution services within the
United States, its territories and possessions. This agreement may be terminated
by Firstar Corporation under specified circumstances, including if no affiliate
of Firstar Corporation is serving as investment adviser for any portfolio
offered by the Company.
Subject to the general supervision of the Board of Directors and in accordance
with the respective investment objective and policies of each Fund, the Adviser
manages each Fund's portfolio securities and maintains records relating to such
purchases and sales.
The Adviser is authorized to allocate purchase and sale orders for portfolio
securities to shareholder organizations, including, in the case of agency
transactions, shareholder organizations which are affiliated with the Adviser,
to take into account the sale of Fund shares if the Adviser believes that the
quality of the transaction and the amount of the commission are comparable to
what they would be with other qualified brokerage firms.
FIRMCO is entitled to receive from the Funds contractual fees calculated daily
and payable monthly, at the annual rate (as a percentage of such Fund's average
daily net assets) as follows:
Fund Amount Before Waivers Amount After Waivers
---- --------------------- ---------------------
U. S. Government Securities Fund 0.60% 0.50%
Aggregate Bond Fund 0.50% 0.44%
National Municipal Bond Fund 0.55% 0.55%
Prior to March 1, 2000, the Mercantile U.S. Government Securities Portfolio, the
Mercantile Government & Corporate Bond Portfolio and the Mercantile National
Municipal Bond Portfolio were managed by Mississippi Valley Advisors Inc.
("MVA"), a subsidiary of Firstar Corporation.
For the fiscal year ended November 30, 1999, the Predecessor Mercantile Funds
paid their former investment adviser, MVA, the following fees:
Fund Fee paid
---- --------
Mercantile U.S. Government Securities Portfolio 0.45%
Mercantile Government & Corporate Bond Portfolio 0.45%
Mercantile National Municipal Bond Portfolio 0.55%
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Fund Managers
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
David Bethke manages the U.S. Government Securities Fund. Mr. Bethke has 19
years of investment management experience and has been with FIRMCO and its
affiliates since 1987. Mr. Bethke has managed the Predecessor Mercantile U.S.
Government Securities Portfolio since it commenced operations in 1988.
Peter Merzian manages the National Municipal Bond Fund. Mr. Merzian joined
FIRMCO and its affiliates in 1993 and has 12 years of investment management
experience. He has managed the Predecessor Mercantile National Municipal Bond
Portfolio since it commenced operations in 1996.
George Schupp and David Bethke co-manage the Aggregate Bond Fund. Mr. Schupp
serves as FIRMCO's Director of Fixed Income Services. He has 24 years of
investment management experience and has been with FIRMCO and its affiliates
since 1983. Mr. Schupp has managed the Predecessor Mercantile Government &
Corporate Bond Portfolio since February 1998, and Mr. Bethke has managed the
Predecessor Mercantile Government & Corporate Bond Portfolio since February
2000.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Administrative Services
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC serves as the Administrator and receives fees
for those services.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Custodian, Transfer and Dividend Disbursing Agent, and Accounting Services Agent
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC, an affiliate of the Adviser, provides
transfer agency, dividend disbursing agency and accounting services for the
Funds and receive fees for these services. Inquiries to the transfer agent may
be sent to: Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC, P.O. Box 3011, Milwaukee,
Wisconsin 53201-3011. Firstar Bank, N.A., an affiliate of the Adviser, provides
custodial services for the Funds and receives fees for those services.
NET ASSET VALUE AND DAYS OF OPERATION
The price of the Retail A, Retail B, Y and Institutional Shares (each, a
"class") is based on net asset value per share, plus, in the case of Retail A
Shares, a front-end sales charge, if applicable. This amount is calculated
separately for each class of shares by dividing the value of all securities and
other assets attributable to the class, less the liabilities attributable to
that class, by the number of outstanding shares of that class. The price at
which a purchase or redemption is effected is based on the next calculation of
net asset value after the order is accepted.
Net asset value for purposes of pricing purchase and redemption orders is
determined as of the close of regular trading hours on the New York Stock
Exchange ( the "Exchange"), normally, 3:00 p.m. Central time, on each day the
Exchange is open for trading. Shares of the Funds are not priced on days when
the Exchange is closed. For a complete list of days the Exchange is closed,
please see the Additional Statement.
The Funds' investments are valued based on market quotations, except that
restricted securities and securities for which market quotations are not readily
available and other assets are valued at fair value by the Adviser under the
supervision of the Board of Directors. Short-term investments having a maturity
of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, unless the amortized cost does
not approximate market value.
Portfolio securities which are primarily traded on foreign securities exchanges
are generally valued at the preceding closing values of such securities on their
respective exchanges, except when an occurrence subsequent to the time a value
was so established is likely to have changed such value. In such an event, the
fair value of those securities will be determined through the consideration of
other factors by or under the direction of the Board of Directors. A Fund's
foreign securities may trade on weekends or other days when the Fund does not
price its shares. Accordingly, the net asset value per share of a Fund may
change on days when shareholders will not be able to purchase or redeem the
Fund's shares.
Each Fund's securities may be valued based on valuations provided by an
independent pricing service. The Adviser reviews these valuations. If the
Adviser believes that a valuation received from the service does not represent a
fair value, it values the security by a method that the Board of Directors
believes will determine a fair value. Any pricing service used may employ
electronic data processing techniques, including a "matrix" system, to determine
valuations.
Quotations of foreign securities in foreign currency are converted to U.S.
dollar equivalents using the foreign exchange quotation in effect at the time
net asset value is computed.
APPENDIX
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The financial highlights tables set forth on the following pages are based on
the Predecessor Mercantile U.S. Government Securities, Predecessor Mercantile
Government & Corporate Bond and Predecessor Mercantile National Municipal Bond
Portfolios' financial history. The financial highlights tables are intended to
help you understand each Fund's financial performance for the past 5 years (or,
if shorter, the period of the Fund's operations). Certain information reflects
financial results for a single Fund share. The total returns in the tables
represent the rate that an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment
in each Fund (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). This
information has been audited by KPMG LLP, independent auditors for the
Predecessor Mercantile Portfolios, whose reports, along with each Fund's
financial statements, are included in the Predecessor Mercantile Portfolios'
Annual Report, and incorporated by reference into the Statement of Additional
Information (the "Additional Statement"), all of which are available upon
request. The financial statements for the six-month period ended May 31, 2000
are unaudited and are contained in the Predecessor Mercantile Portfolios' Semi-
Annual Report, which is also incorporated by reference into the Additional
Statement. Contact Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC for a free copy of the
Annual and Semi-Annual Reports or Additional Statement.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES FUND
(Retail A Shares)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
For the
six months
ended For the years ended November 30,
May 31, --------------------------------
2000
(unaudited) 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE,
BEGINNING OF PERIOD $10.34 $10.74 $10.62 $10.67 $10.85 $10.05
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Activities:
Net investment income 0.29 0.54 0.57 0.60 0.62 0.64
Net realized and unrealized gains
(losses) from investments (0.21) (0.40) 0.12 (0.07) (0.15) 0.80
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total from Investment Activities 0.08 0.14 0.69 0.53 0.47 1.44
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Less Distributions
Net investment income (0.28) (0.54) (0.57) (0.58) (0.62) (0.64)
In excess of net realized gains -- -- -- -- (0.03) --
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total Distributions (0.28) (0.54) (0.57) (0.58) (0.65) (0.64)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD $10.14 $10.34 $10.74 $10.62 $10.67 $10.85
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Return (excludes sales charge) 0.75%<F3> 1.37% 6.66% 5.20% 4.57% 14.66%
Ratios/Supplementary Data:
Net Assets at end of period (000) $3,779 $4,620 $4,664 $5,181 $7,153 $8,179
Ratio of expenses to average
net assets 1.03%<F4> 0.98% 0.97% 0.97% 0.97% 0.97%
Ratio of net investment income
to average net assets 5.39%<F4> 5.15% 5.35% 5.56% 5.82% 6.05%
Ratio of expenses to average
net assets<F1> 1.14%<F4> 1.09% 1.07% 1.07% 1.07% 1.07%
Portfolio turnover<F2> 4.38% 26.17% 54.57% 100.33% 53.76% 93.76%
</TABLE>
<F1> During the period, certain fees were voluntarily reduced. If such
voluntary fee reductions had not occurred, the ratio would have been as
indicated.
<F2> Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis of the Portfolio as a whole
without distinguishing between the classes of shares issued.
<F3> Not annualized.
<F4> Annualized.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES FUND
(Retail B Shares)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
For the
six months
ended For the years ended November 30, March 1,
May 31, -------------------------------- 1995 to
2000 November 30,
(unaudited) 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995<F3>
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE,
BEGINNING OF PERIOD $10.36 $10.74 $10.61 $10.66 $10.84 $10.34
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Activities:
Net investment income 0.28 0.47<F6> 0.50<F6> 0.51 0.55 0.31
Net realized and unrealized gains
(losses) from investments (0.24) (0.38) 0.13 (0.05) (0.15) 0.50
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total from Investment Activities 0.04 0.09 0.63 0.46 0.40 0.81
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Less Distributions
Net investment income (0.24) (0.47) (0.50) (0.51) (0.55) (0.31)
In excess of net realized gains -- -- -- -- (0.03) --
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total Distributions (0.24) (0.47) (0.50) (0.51) (0.58) (0.31)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD $10.16 $10.36 $10.74 $10.61 $10.66 $10.84
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Return
(excludes redemption charge) 0.40%<F7> 0.86% 6.02% 4.47% 3.85% 12.85%<F4>
Ratios/Supplementary Data:
Net Assets at end of period (000) $173 $282 $149 $466 $359 $41
Ratio of expenses to average net assets 1.73%<F5> 1.68% 1.67% 1.67% 1.66% 1.68%<F5>
Ratio of net investment income to
average net assets 4.69%<F5> 4.47% 4.67% 4.84% 5.06% 5.37%<F5>
Ratio of expenses to average
net assets<F1> 1.84%<F5> 1.79% 1.77% 1.77% 1.76% 1.78%<F5>
Portfolio turnover<F2> 4.38% 26.17% 54.57% 100.33% 53.76% 93.76%
</TABLE>
<F1> During the period, certain fees were voluntarily reduced. If such
voluntary fee reductions had not occurred, the ratio would have been as
indicated.
<F2> Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis of the Portfolio as a whole
without distinguishing between the classes of shares issued.
<F3> Period from commencement of operations.
<F4> Represents the total return for Investor A Shares from December 1, 1994 to
February 28, 1995 plus the total return for Investor B Shares from March 1,
1995 to November 30, 1995.
<F5> Annualized.
<F6> Per share net investment income has been calculated using the daily average
share method.
<F7> Not annualized.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES FUND
(Y Shares)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
For the
six months
ended For the years ended November 30,
May 31, --------------------------------
2000
(unaudited) 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $10.31 $10.70 $10.58 $10.64 $10.82 $10.02
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Activities:
Net investment income 0.28 0.53 0.57 0.56 0.62 0.63
Net realized and unrealized gains
(losses) from investments (0.21) (0.38) 0.12 (0.04) (0.15) 0.80
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total from Investment Activities 0.07 0.15 0.69 0.52 0.47 1.43
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Less Distributions
Net investment income (0.28) (0.54) (0.57) (0.58) (0.62) (0.63)
In excess of net realized gains -- -- -- -- (0.03) --
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total Distributions (0.28) (0.54) (0.57) (0.58) (0.65) (0.63)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD $10.10 $10.31 $10.70 $10.58 $10.64 $10.82
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Return 0.64%<F3> 1.45% 6.67% 5.10% 4.55% 14.69%
Ratios/Supplementary Data:
Net Assets at end of period (000) $7,934 $8,584 $6,140 $7,049 $2,232 $667
Ratio of expenses to average net assets 1.03%<F4> 0.98% 0.97% 0.97% 0.96% 0.97%
Ratio of net investment income
to average net assets 5.39%<F4> 5.17% 5.34% 5.52% 5.75% 5.91%
Ratio of expenses to
average net assets<F1> 1.14%<F4> 1.09% 1.07% 1.07% 1.06% 1.07%
Portfolio turnover<F2> 4.38% 26.17% 54.57% 100.33% 53.76% 93.76%
</TABLE>
<F1> During the period, certain fees were voluntarily reduced. If such
voluntary fee reductions had not occurred, the ratio would have been as
indicated.
<F2> Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis of the Portfolio as a whole
without distinguishing between the classes of shares issued.
<F3> Not annualized.
<F4> Annualized.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES FUND
(Institutional Shares)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
For the
six months
ended For the years ended November 30,
May 31, --------------------------------
2000
(unaudited) 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $10.34 $10.74 $10.62 $10.67 $10.85 $10.05
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Activities:
Net investment income 0.31 0.58 0.60 0.61 0.66 0.67
Net realized and unrealized gains
(losses) from investments (0.22) (0.41) 0.12 (0.05) (0.15) 0.80
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total from Investment Activities 0.09 0.17 0.72 0.56 0.51 1.47
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Less Distributions
Net investment income (0.29) (0.57) (0.60) (0.61) (0.66) (0.67)
In excess of net realized gains -- -- -- -- (0.03) --
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total Distributions (0.29) (0.57) (0.60) (0.61) (0.69) (0.67)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD $10.14 $10.34 $10.74 $10.62 $10.67 $10.85
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Return 0.90%<F3> 1.67% 6.98% 5.51% 4.88% 15.00%
Ratios/Supplementary Data:
Net Assets at end of period (000) $51,696 $72,483 $93,683 $72,753 $60,079 $45,513
Ratio of expenses to average net assets 0.73%<F4> 0.68% 0.67% 0.67% 0.67% 0.67%
Ratio of net investment income
to average net assets 5.69%<F4> 5.45% 5.64% 5.84% 6.10% 6.36%
Ratio of expenses to average
net assets<F1> 1.14%<F4> 1.09% 1.07% 1.07% 0.77% 0.77%
Portfolio turnover<F2> 4.38% 26.17% 54.57% 100.33% 53.76% 93.76%
</TABLE>
<F1> During the period, certain fees were voluntarily reduced. If such
voluntary fee reductions had not occurred, the ratio would have been as
indicated.
<F2> Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis of the Portfolio as a whole
without distinguishing between the classes of shares issued.
<F3> Not annualized.
<F4> Annualized.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AGGREGATE BOND FUND
(Retail A Shares)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
For the
six months
ended For the years ended November 30,
May 31, --------------------------------
2000
(unaudited) 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $9.84 $10.72 $10.35 $10.34 $10.53 $ 9.64
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Activities:
Net investment income 0.28 0.57 0.57 0.56 0.64 0.61
Net realized and unrealized gains
(losses) from investments (0.16) (0.69) 0.37 0.01 (0.19) 0.89
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total from Investment Activities 0.12 (0.12) 0.94 0.57 0.45 1.50
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Less Distributions
Net investment income (0.28) (0.56) (0.57) (0.56) (0.64) (0.61)
Net realized gains -- (0.13) -- -- -- --
In excess of net realized gains -- (0.07) -- -- -- --
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total Distributions (0.28) (0.76) (0.57) (0.56) (0.64) (0.61)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD $9.68 $9.84 $10.72 $10.35 $10.34 $10.53
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Return (excludes sales charge) 1.26%<F3> (1.13)% 9.31% 5.78% 4.51% 15.98%
Ratios/Supplementary Data:
Net Assets at end of period (000) $3,096 $3,878 $4,927 $4,774 $4,915 $5,496
Ratio of expenses to average net assets 1.00%<F4> 0.97% 0.96% 0.95% 0.95% 0.95%
Ratio of net investment income
to average net assets 5.79%<F4> 5.54% 5.41% 5.46% 6.06% 6.03%
Ratio of expenses to average
net assets<F1> 1.11%<F4> 1.08% 1.06% 1.05% 1.05% 1.05%
Portfolio turnover<F2> 17.60% 38.29% 91.14% 140.72% 149.20% 59.32%
</TABLE>
<F1> During the period, certain fees were voluntarily reduced. If such
voluntary fee reductions had not occurred, the ratio would have been as
indicated.
<F2> Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis of the Portfolio as a whole
without distinguishing between the classes of shares issued.
<F3> Not annualized.
<F4> Annualized.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AGGREGATE BOND FUND
(Retail B Shares)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
For the
six months
ended For the years ended November 30, March 1,
May 31, -------------------------------- 1995 to
2000 November 30,
(unaudited) 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995<F3>
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $9.86 $10.75 $10.37 $10.34 $10.53 $ 9.92
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Activities:
Net investment income 0.24 0.49 0.50 0.49 0.57 0.38
Net realized and unrealized gains
(losses) from investments (0.15) (0.69) 0.38 0.03 ( 0.19) 0.61
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total from Investment Activities 0.09 (0.20) 0.88 0.52 0.38 0.99
Less Distributions
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Net investment income (0.25) (0.49) (0.50) (0.49) (0.57) (0.38)
Net realized gains -- (0.13) -- -- -- --
In excess of net realized gains -- (0.07) -- -- -- --
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total Distributions (0.25) (0.69) (0.50) (0.49) (0.57) (0.38)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD $9.70 $9.86 $10.75 $10.37 $ 10.34 $ 10.53
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Return
(excludes redemption charge) 0.91%<F6> (1.90)% 8.65% 5.26% 3.79% 15.27%<F4>
Ratios/Supplementary Data:
Net assets at end of period (000) $653 $712 $662 $545 $511 $106
Ratio of expenses to average net assets 1.70%<F5> 1.67% 1.66% 1.65% 1.65% 1.65%<F5>
Ratio of net investment income
to average net assets 5.09%<F5> 4.85% 4.70% 4.84% 5.37% 5.19%<F5>
Ratio of expenses to average
net assets<F1> 1.81%<F5> 1.78% 1.76% 1.75% 1.75% 1.75%<F5>
Portfolio turnover<F2> 17.60% 38.29% 91.14% 140.72% 149.20% 59.32%
</TABLE>
<F1> During the period, certain fees were voluntarily reduced. If such
voluntary fee reductions had not occurred, the ratio would have
been as indicated.
<F2> Portfolio is calculated on the basis of the Portfolio as a whole without
distinguishing between the classes of shares issued.
<F3> Period from commencement of operations.
<F4> Represents total return for Investor A Shares from December 1, 1994 to
February 28, 1995 plus the total return for Investor B Shares from March 1,
1995 to November 30, 1995.
<F5> Annualized.
<F6> Not annualized.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AGGREGATE BOND FUND
(Y Shares)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
For the
six months
ended For the years ended November 30,
May 31, --------------------------------
2000
(unaudited) 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $9.86 $10.74 $10.37 $10.34 $10.53 $ 9.64
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Activities:
Net investment income 0.27 0.56<F3> 0.57 0.56 0.64 0.61
Net realized and unrealized gains
(losses) from investments (0.16) (0.68) 0.37 0.03 (0.19) 0.89
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total from Investment Activities 0.11 (0.12) 0.94 0.59 0.45 1.50
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Less Distributions
Net investment income (0.28) (0.56) (0.57) (0.56) (0.64) (0.61)
Net realized gains -- (0.13) -- -- -- --
In excess of net realized gains -- (0.07) -- -- -- --
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total Distributions (0.28) (0.76) (0.57) (0.56) (0.64) (0.61)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD $9.69 $9.86 $10.74 $10.37 $10.34 $10.53
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Return 1.17%<F4> (1.12)% 9.30% 6.00% 4.51% 15.98%
Ratios/Supplementary Data:
Net Assets at end of period (000) $11,087 $4,753 $20,835 $16,954 $14,875 $9,413
Ratio of expenses to average net assets 1.00%<F5> 0.97% 0.96% 0.95% 0.95% 0.95%
Ratio of net investment income
to average net assets 5.79%<F5> 5.49% 5.41% 5.55% 6.06% 6.01%
Ratio of expenses to average
net assets<F1> 1.11%<F5> 1.08% 1.06% 1.05% 1.05% 1.05%
Portfolio turnover<F2> 17.60% 38.29% 91.14% 140.72% 149.20% 59.32%
</TABLE>
<F1> During the period, certain fees were voluntarily reduced. If such
voluntary fee reductions had not occurred, the ratio would have been as
indicated.
<F2> Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis of the Portfolio as a whole
without distinguishing between the classes of shares issued.
<F3> Per share net investment income has been calculated using the daily average
share method.
<F4> Not annualized.
<F5> Annualized.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AGGREGATE BOND FUND
(Institutional Shares)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
For the
six months
ended For the years ended November 30,
May 31, --------------------------------
2000
(unaudited) 1999 1998 1997 1996 1995
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $9.86 $10.74 $10.37 $10.34 $10.53 $ 9.64
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Activities:
Net investment income 0.30 0.60 0.60 0.59 0.67 0.64
Net realized and unrealized gains
(losses) from investments (0.17) (0.69) 0.37 0.03 (0.19) 0.89
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total from Investment Activities 0.13 (0.09) 0.97 0.62 0.48 1.53
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Less Distributions
Net investment income (0.30) (0.59) (0.60) (0.59) (0.67) (0.64)
Net realized gains -- (0.13) -- -- -- --
In excess of net realized gains -- (0.07) -- -- -- --
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total Distributions (0.30) (0.79) (0.60) (0.59) (0.67) (0.64)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD $9.69 $9.86 $10.74 $10.37 $10.34 $10.53
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Return 1.31%<F3> (0.83)% 9.63% 6.32% 4.82% 16.31%
Ratios & Supplementary Data:
Net Assets at end of period (000) $112,682 $126,472 $178,868 $172,637 $141,440 $127,741
Ratio of expenses to average net assets 0.70%<F4> 0.67% 0.66% 0.65% 0.65% 0.65%
Ratio of net investment income
to average net assets 6.09%<F4> 5.84% 5.71% 5.85% 6.36% 6.32%
Ratio of expenses to average
net assets<F1> 1.11%<F4> 1.08% 1.06% 1.05% 0.75% 0.75%
Portfolio turnover<F2> 17.60% 38.29% 91.14% 140.72% 149.20% 59.32%
</TABLE>
<F1> During the period, certain fees were voluntarily reduced. If such
voluntary fee reductions had not occurred, the ratio would have been as
indicated.
<F2> Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis of the Portfolio as a whole
without distinguishing between the classes of shares issued.
<F3> Not annualized.
<F4> Annualized.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NATIONAL MUNICIPAL BOND FUND
(Retail A Shares)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
For the
six months
ended For the years ended November 30, November 30,
May 31, -------------------------------- 1996 to
2000 November 30,
(unaudited) 1999 1998 1997 1996<F4>
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $9.43 $10.22 $10.27 $10.05 $10.00
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Activities:
Net Investment Income 0.20 0.41 0.44 0.52 0.02
Net realized and unrealized gains
(losses) from investments (0.18) (0.69) 0.30 0.22 0.05
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total from Investment Activities 0.02 (0.28) 0.74 0.74 0.07
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Less Distributions
Net investment income (0.21) (0.40) (0.44) (0.52) (0.02)
In excess of net investment income -- (0.01) -- -- --
Net realized gains -- (0.09) (0.35) -- --
In excess of net realized gains -- (0.01) -- -- --
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total Distributions 0.21 (0.51) (0.79) (0.52) (0.02)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD $9.24 $9.43 $10.22 $10.27 $10.05
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Return (excludes sales charge) 0.21%<F5> (2.87)%<F3> 7.56% 7.61% 0.73%<F5>
Ratios/Supplementary Data:
Net Assets at end of period (000) $1,438 $1,582 $1,162 $717 $1
Ratio of expenses to average net assets 0.98%<F6> 0.96% 0.85% 0.35% 0.37%<F6>
Ratio of net investment income
to average net assets 4.38%<F6> 4.14% 4.18% 4.71% 9.08%<F6>
Ratio of expenses to average
net assets<F1> 1.09%<F6> 1.16% 1.16% 1.17% 1.07%<F6>
Portfolio turnover<F2> -- -- 18.30% 83.94% --
</TABLE>
<F1> During the period, certain fees were voluntarily reduced. If such
voluntary fee reductions had not occurred, the ratio would have been as
indicated.
<F2> Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis of the Portfolio as a whole
without distinguishing between the classes of shares issued.
<F3> Incurred class specific gains. The total return excluding this would have
been (3.14)%.
<F4> Period from commencement of operations.
<F5> Not annualized.
<F6> Annualized.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NATIONAL MUNICIPAL BOND FUND
(Retail B Shares)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
For the
six months
ended For the years ended November 30, November 30,
May 31, -------------------------------- 1996 to
2000 November 30,
(unaudited) 1999 1998 1997 1996<F3>
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $9.41 $10.24 $10.29 $10.05 $10.00
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Activities:
Net Investment Income 0.16 0.33 0.36 0.44 0.02
Net realized and unrealized gains
(losses) from investments (0.17) (0.72) 0.30 0.24 0.05
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total from Investment Activities (0.01) (0.39) 0.66 0.68 0.07
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Less Distributions
Net investment income (0.17) (0.33) (0.36) (0.44) (0.02)
In excess of net investment income -- (0.01) -- -- --
Net realized gains -- (0.09) (0.35) -- --
In excess of net realized gains -- (0.01) -- -- --
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total Distributions (0.17) (0.44) (0.71) (0.44) (0.02)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD $9.23 $9.41 $10.24 $10.29 $10.05
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Return
(excludes redemption charge) (0.08)%<F4> (4.03)% 6.69% 7.01% 0.70%<F4>
Ratios/Supplementary Data:
Net Assets at end of period (000) $629 $747 $503 $408 $1
Ratio of expenses to average net assets 1.78%<F5> 1.76% 1.56% 1.17% 1.10%<F5>
Ratio of net investment income
to average net assets 3.58%<F5> 3.34% 3.51% 4.08% 8.35%<F5>
Ratio of expenses to average
net assets<F1> 1.89%<F5> 1.86% 1.86% 1.89% 1.80%<F5>
Portfolio turnover<F2> -- -- 18.30% 83.94% --
</TABLE>
<F1> During the period, certain fees were voluntarily reduced. If such
voluntary fee reductions had not occurred, the ratio would have been as
indicated.
<F2> Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis of the Portfolio as a whole
without distinguishing between the classes of shares issued.
<F3> Period from commencement of operations.
<F4> Not annualized.
<F5> Annualized.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NATIONAL MUNICIPAL BOND FUND
(Institutional Shares)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
For the
six months
ended For the years ended November 30, November 30,
May 31, -------------------------------- 1996 to
2000 November 30,
(unaudited) 1999 1998 1997 1996<F3>
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $9.41 $10.23 $10.28 $10.05 $10.00
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Investment Activities:
Net Investment Income 0.21 0.43 0.46 0.54 0.02
Net realized and unrealized gains
(losses) from investments (0.18) (0.72) 0.30 0.23 0.05
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total from Investment Activities 0.03 (0.29) 0.76 0.77 0.07
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Less Distributions
Net investment income (0.22) (0.42) (0.46) (0.54) (0.02)
In excess of net investment income -- (0.01) -- -- --
Net realized gains -- (0.09) (0.35) -- --
In excess of net realized gains -- (0.01) -- -- --
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
Total Distributions (0.22) (0.53) (0.81) (0.54) (0.02)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NET ASSET VALUE, END OF PERIOD $9.22 $9.41 $10.23 $10.28 $10.05
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Return 0.31%<F4> (2.97)% 7.76% 7.97% 0.74%<F4>
Ratios/Supplementary Data:
Net Assets at end of period (000) $253,261 $326,840 $384,518 $366,889 $310,413
Ratio of expenses to average net assets 0.78%<F5> 0.76% 0.56% 0.14% 0.12%<F5>
Ratio of net investment income
to average net assets 4.58%<F5> 4.33% 4.52% 5.38% 5.77%<F5>
Ratio of expenses to average
net assets<F1> 1.19%<F5> 1.16% 1.16% 1.17% 0.82%<F5>
Portfolio turnover<F2> -- -- 18.30% 83.94% --
</TABLE>
<F1> During the period, certain fees were voluntarily reduced. If such
voluntary fee reductions had not occurred, the ratio would have been as
indicated.
<F2> Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis of the Portfolio as a whole
without distinguishing between the classes of shares issued.
<F3> Period from commencement of operations.
<F4> Not annualized.
<F5> Annualized.
NO PERSON HAS BEEN AUTHORIZED TO GIVE ANY INFORMATION OR TO MAKE ANY
REPRESENTATIONS NOT CONTAINED IN THIS PROSPECTUS, OR IN THE FUNDS' ADDITIONAL
STATEMENT INCORPORATED HEREIN BY REFERENCE, IN CONNECTION WITH THE OFFERING MADE
BY THIS PROSPECTUS AND, IF GIVEN OR MADE, SUCH INFORMATION OR REPRESENTATIONS
MUST NOT BE RELIED UPON AS HAVING BEEN AUTHORIZED BY THE FUNDS OR THEIR
DISTRIBUTOR. THIS PROSPECTUS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFERING BY THE FUNDS OR BY
THEIR DISTRIBUTOR IN ANY JURISDICTION IN WHICH SUCH OFFERING MAY NOT LAWFULLY BE
MADE.
THE LEHMAN BROTHERS INTERMEDIATE GOVERNMENT BOND INDEX, LEHMAN BROTHERS
AGGREGATE BOND INDEX AND THE LEHMAN BROTHERS MUNICIPAL BOND INDEX-10 YEAR ARE
TRADEMARKS OF LEHMAN BROTHERS. THE FUNDS, THEIR ADVISER AND THE CO-
ADMINISTRATORS ARE NOT AFFILIATED IN ANY WAY WITH LEHMAN BROTHERS. INCLUSION OF
A SECURITY IN THE BOND INDEX IN NO WAY IMPLIES AN OPINION BY LEHMAN BROTHERS AS
TO ITS ATTRACTIVENESS OR APPROPRIATENESS AS AN INVESTMENT. LEHMAN BROTHERS'
PUBLICATION OF THE BOND INDICES IS NOT MADE IN CONNECTION WITH ANY SALE OR OFFER
FOR SALE OF SECURITIES OR ANY SOLICITATIONS OF ORDERS FOR THE PURCHASE OF
SECURITIES.
FOR MORE INFORMATION
ANNUAL/SEMIANNUAL REPORTS
Additional information about the Funds' performance and investments is available
in the Funds' annual and semiannual reports to shareholders. In the Funds'
annual report, you will find a discussion of the market conditions and
investment strategies that significantly affected the Funds' performance during
their last fiscal year.
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
Additional information about the Funds and their policies is also available in
the Funds' Statement of Additional Information ("Additional Statement"). The
Additional Statement is incorporated by reference into this Prospectus (and is
legally considered part of this Prospectus).
The Funds' annual and semiannual reports and the Additional Statement are
available free upon request by calling Firstar Funds at 1-800-677-FUND or 1-414-
287-3808.
To obtain other information and for shareholder inquiries:
By telephone - call 1-800-677-FUND or 1-414-287-3808
By mail - Firstar Funds
615 East Michigan Street
P.O. Box 3011
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-3011
By e-mail - [email protected]
--------------------------
On the Internet - Text only version of the Funds' documents are located online
and may be downloaded from: - http://www.sec.gov
-------------------
You may review and obtain copies of Fund documents by visiting the SEC's Public
Reference Room in Washington, D.C. You may also obtain copies of Fund documents
by paying a duplicating fee and sending an electronic request at the following
e-mail address at: [email protected], or by sending your request and a
------------------
duplicating fee to the SEC's Public Reference Section, Washington, D.C. 20549-
0102. Information on the operation of the public reference room may be obtained
by calling the SEC at 1-202-942-8090.
The Fund's Investment Company Act File Number is 811-5380.
FIRSTAR FUNDS, INC.
Statement of Additional Information
U.S. Government Securities Fund
Aggregate Bond Fund
National Municipal Bond Fund
____________, 2000
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
FIRSTAR FUNDS, INC....................................................1
DESCRIPTION OF THE FUNDS AND THEIR INVESTMENTS AND RISKS..............1
INVESTMENT STRATEGIES AND RISKS.......................................3
NET ASSET VALUE......................................................16
ADDITIONAL PURCHASE AND REDEMPTION INFORMATION.......................17
DESCRIPTION OF SHARES................................................21
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONCERNING TAXES..............................22
MANAGEMENT OF THE COMPANY............................................23
CUSTODIAN, TRANSFER AGENT AND ACCOUNTING SERVICES AGENT..............29
EXPENSES.............................................................30
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.....................30
COUNSEL..............................................................30
CODE OF ETHICS.......................................................30
PERFORMANCE CALCULATIONS.............................................30
MISCELLANEOUS........................................................33
APPENDIX A..........................................................A-1
APPENDIX B..........................................................B-1
This Statement of Additional Information ("SAI"), which is not a
prospectus, supplements and should be read in conjunction with Firstar Funds,
Inc.' s prospectus ("Prospectus") dated _________, 2000, for Retail A, Retail B,
Y and Institutional Shares of the U.S. Government Securities Fund, Aggregate
Bond Fund and National Municipal Bond Fund (collectively referred to as the
"Funds") and is incorporated by reference in its entirety into the Prospectus.
Copies of the Prospectus for the Funds may be obtained by writing the Firstar
Funds Center at 615 East Michigan Street, P.O. Box 3011, Milwaukee, WI 53201-
3011 or by calling 1-800-677-FUND. The Financial Statements and the Independent
Accountants' reports thereon in this SAI are incorporated by reference from the
Annual Report of the Mercantile U.S. Government Securities Portfolio, Mercantile
Government & Corporate Bond Portfolio and the Mercantile National Municipal Bond
Portfolio (together, the "Predecessor Mercantile Funds"). The financial
statements for the six-month period ending May 31, 2000 are unaudited and are
contained in the Predecessor Mercantile Funds' Semi-Annual Report, which is also
incorporated by reference into this SAI. The Annual and Semi-Annual Reports may
be obtained by writing the address above or calling the toll-free number above.
No other parts of the Annual and Semi-Annual Reports are incorporated herein by
reference.
FIRSTAR FUNDS, INC.
Firstar Funds, Inc. (the "Company") is a Wisconsin corporation that was
incorporated on February 15, 1988 as a management investment company. The
Company, formerly known as Portico Funds, Inc., changed its name effective
February 1, 1998. The Company is authorized to issue separate classes of shares
of Common Stock representing interests in separate investment portfolios.
The U.S. Government Securities, Aggregate Bond and National Municipal Bond
Funds will not begin investment operations until the closings of pending
reorganizations between the Company and each of Mercantile Funds, Inc. and
Firstar Stellar Funds. The performance and certain of the expense information
set forth in this SAI is that of the Mercantile U.S. Government Securities
("Predecessor Mercantile U.S. Government Securities Fund), Mercantile Government
& Corporate Bond ("Predecessor Mercantile Government & Corporate Bond Fund") and
Mercantile National Municipal Bond ("Predecessor Mercantile National Municipal
Bond Fund") Portfolios (together, the "Predecessor Mercantile Funds").
This SAI pertains to Retail A Shares, Retail B Shares, Y Shares and
Institutional Shares of three diversified portfolios, the U.S. Government
Securities Fund, Aggregate Bond Fund and the National Municipal Bond Fund
(collectively the "Funds"). The Company also offers other investment portfolios
that are described in a separate statement of additional information. For
information concerning these other portfolios, contact Firstar Mutual Fund
Services, LLC at 1-800-677-FUND or write to 615 East Michigan Street, P.O. Box
3011, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-3011.
DESCRIPTION OF THE FUNDS AND THEIR INVESTMENTS AND RISKS
The Company is an open-end management investment company. The following
policies supplement the Funds' respective investment objectives and policies as
set forth in the Prospectus.
Portfolio Transactions
----------------------
Subject to the general supervision of the Board of Directors, Firstar
Investment Research & Management Company, LLC ("FIRMCO" or the "Adviser") is
responsible for, makes decisions with respect to, and places orders for all
purchases and sales of portfolio securities for each Fund.
The portfolio turnover rate for each Fund is calculated by dividing the
lesser of purchases or sales of portfolio securities for the reporting period by
the monthly average value of the portfolio securities owned during the reporting
period. The calculation excludes all securities, including options, whose
maturities or expiration dates at the time of acquisition are one year or less.
Portfolio turnover may vary greatly from year to year as well as within a
particular year, and may be affected by cash requirements for redemption of
shares and by requirements which enable the Funds to receive favorable tax
treatment. Portfolio turnover will not be a limiting factor in making portfolio
decisions, and each Fund may engage in short-term trading to achieve its
investment objective.
Transactions on U.S. stock exchanges involve the payment of negotiated
brokerage commissions. On exchanges on which commissions are negotiated, the
cost of transactions may vary among different brokers. Unlike transactions on
U.S. stock exchanges that involve the payment of negotiated brokerage
commissions, transactions in foreign securities generally involve the payment of
fixed brokerage commissions that are generally higher than those in the United
States.
Transactions in the over-the-counter market are generally principal
transactions with dealers and the costs of such transactions involve dealer
spreads rather than brokerage commissions. With respect to over-the-counter
transactions, the Adviser will normally deal directly with dealers who make a
market in the securities involved except in those circumstances where better
prices and execution are available elsewhere or as described below.
Fixed income securities purchased and sold by the Funds are generally
traded in the over-the-counter market on a net basis (i.e., without commission)
through dealers, or otherwise involve transactions directly with the issuer of
an instrument. The cost of securities purchased from underwriters includes an
underwriting commission or concession, and the prices at which securities are
purchased from and sold to dealers include a dealer's mark-up or mark-down.
The Funds may participate, if and when practicable, in bidding for the
purchase of portfolio securities directly from an issuer in order to take
advantage of the lower purchase price available to members of a bidding group.
The Funds will engage in this practice, however, only when the Adviser, in its
sole discretion, believes such practice to be in the Funds' interests.
For the fiscal years ended November 30, 1999, 1998 and 1997, no brokerage
commissions were paid with respect to the Funds.
The Advisory Agreement between the Company and the Adviser provides that,
in executing portfolio transactions and selecting brokers or dealers, the
Adviser will seek to obtain the best overall terms available. In assessing the
best overall terms available for any transaction, the Adviser shall consider
factors it deems relevant, including the breadth of the market in the security,
the price of the security, the financial condition and execution capability of
the broker or dealer, and the reasonableness of the commissions, if any, both
for the specific transaction and on a continuing basis. In addition, the
Agreement authorizes the Adviser to cause the Funds to pay a broker-dealer which
furnishes brokerage and research services a higher commission than that which
might be charged by another broker-dealer for effecting the same transaction,
provided that the Adviser determines in good faith that such commission is
reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services
provided by such broker-dealer, viewed in terms of either the particular
transaction or the overall responsibilities of the Adviser to the Funds. Such
brokerage and research services might consist of reports and statistics relating
to specific companies or industries, general summaries of groups of stocks or
bonds and their comparative earnings and yields, or broad overviews of the
stock, bond and government securities markets and the economy.
Supplementary research information so received is in addition to, and not
in lieu of, services required to be performed by the Adviser and does not reduce
the advisory fees payable to it by the Funds. The Directors will periodically
review the commissions paid by the Funds to consider whether the commissions
paid over representative periods of time appear to be reasonable in relation to
the benefits inuring to the Funds. It is possible that certain of the
supplementary research or other services received will primarily benefit one or
more other investment companies or other accounts for which investment
discretion is exercised. Conversely, a Fund may be the primary beneficiary of
the research or services received as a result of portfolio transactions effected
for such other account or investment company.
Portfolio securities will not be purchased from or sold to (and savings
deposits will not be made in and repurchase and reverse repurchase agreements
will not be entered into with) the Adviser, or Quasar Distributors, LLC (the
"Distributor") or an affiliated person of either of them (as such term is
defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, (the "1940 Act")
acting as principal. In addition, the Funds will not purchase securities during
the existence of any underwriting or selling group relating thereto of which the
Distributor or their Adviser, or an affiliated person of either of them, is a
member, except to the extent permitted by the Securities and Exchange Commission
("SEC").
Investment decisions for the Funds are made independently from those for
other investment companies and accounts advised or managed by their Adviser.
Such other investment companies and accounts may also invest in the same
securities as the Funds. When a purchase or sale of the same security is made
at substantially the same time on behalf of a Fund and another investment
company or account, the transaction will be averaged as to price and available
investments allocated as to amount, in a manner which the Adviser believes to be
equitable to the Fund and such other investment company or account. In some
instances, this investment procedure may adversely affect the price paid or
received by a Fund or the size of the position obtained or sold by the Fund. To
the extent permitted by law, the Adviser may aggregate the securities to be sold
or purchased for a Fund with those to be sold or purchased for other investment
companies or accounts in executing transactions.
INVESTMENT STRATEGIES AND RISKS
Ratings. The ratings of Standard & Poor's, Moody's and other nationally
-------
recognized rating agencies represent their opinions as to the quality of debt
securities. It should be emphasized, however, that ratings are general and are
not absolute standards of quality, and debt securities with the same maturity,
interest rate and rating may have different yields while debt securities of the
same maturity and interest rate with different ratings may have the same yield.
The payment of principal and interest on most debt securities purchased by
a Fund will depend upon the ability of the issuers to meet their obligations.
An issuer's obligations under its debt securities are subject to the provisions
of bankruptcy, insolvency, and other laws affecting the rights and remedies of
creditors, such as the Federal Bankruptcy Code, and laws, if any, which may be
enacted by federal or state legislatures extending the time for payment of
principal or interest, or both, or imposing other constraints upon enforcement
of such obligations. The power or ability of an issuer to meet its obligations
for the payment of interest on, and principal of, its debt securities may be
materially adversely affected by litigation or other conditions.
Subsequent to its purchase by a Fund, a rated security may cease to be
rated or its rating may be reduced below the minimum rating required for
purchase by the Fund. The Adviser will consider such an event in determining
whether the Fund involved should continue to hold the security. For a more
detailed description of ratings, see Appendix A.
Securities Lending. Each of the Funds may lend its portfolio securities
------------------
to unaffiliated domestic broker/dealers and other institutional investors
pursuant to agreements requiring that the loans be secured by collateral equal
in value to at least the market value of the securities loaned in order to
increase return on portfolio securities. Collateral for such loans may include
cash, securities of the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities, or
an irrevocable letter of credit issued by a bank which meets the investment
standards stated below under "Money Market Instruments," or any combination
thereof. There may be risks of delay in receiving additional collateral or in
recovering the securities loaned or even a loss of rights in the collateral
should the borrower of the securities fail financially. However, loans will be
made only to borrowers deemed by the Adviser to be of good standing and when, in
the Adviser's judgment, the income to be earned from the loan justifies the
attendant risks. When a Fund lends its securities, it continues to receive
interest or dividends on the securities loaned and may simultaneously earn
interest on the investment of the cash collateral which will be invested in
readily marketable, high-quality, short-term obligations. Although voting
rights, or rights to consent, attendant to securities on loan pass to the
borrower, such loans may be called at any time and will be called so that the
securities may be voted by a Fund if a material event affecting the investment
is to occur.
Securities lending arrangements with broker/dealers require that the loans
be secured by collateral equal in value to at least the market value of the
securities loaned. During the term of such arrangements, a Fund will maintain
such value by the daily marking-to-market of the collateral.
Money Market Instruments. The Funds may invest from time to time in "money
------------------------
market instruments," a term that may include, among other things, U.S.
government obligations, repurchase agreements, cash, bank obligations,
commercial paper, variable amount master demand notes and corporate bonds with
remaining maturities of thirteen months or less. These investments are used to
help meet anticipated redemption requests or if other suitable securities are
unavailable.
Bank obligations include bankers' acceptances, negotiable certificates of
deposit and non-negotiable time deposits, including U.S. dollar-denominated
instruments issued or supported by the credit of U.S. or foreign banks or
savings institutions. Although the Funds will invest in money market
obligations of foreign banks or foreign branches of U.S. banks only where the
Adviser determines the instrument to present minimal credit risks, such
investments may nevertheless entail risks that are different from those of
investments in domestic obligations of U.S. banks due to differences in
political, regulatory and economic systems and conditions. All investments in
bank obligations are limited to the obligations of financial institutions having
more than $1 billion in total assets at the time of purchase, and investments by
each Fund in the obligations of foreign banks and foreign branches of U.S. banks
will not exceed 25% of such Fund's total assets at the time of purchase. The
Funds may also make interest-bearing savings deposits in commercial and savings
banks in amounts not in excess of 5% of its net assets.
Investments by a Fund in commercial paper will consist of issues rated at
the time A-1 or A-2 by Standard & Poor's, or P-1 or P-2 by Moody's or similar
rating by another nationally recognized rating agency. In addition, the Funds
may acquire unrated commercial paper and corporate bonds that are determined by
the Adviser at the time of purchase to be of comparable quality to rated
instruments that may be acquired by such Fund as previously described.
The Funds may also purchase variable amount master demand notes which are
unsecured instruments that permit the indebtedness thereunder to vary and
provide for periodic adjustments in the interest rate. Although the notes are
not normally traded and there may be no secondary market in the notes, a Fund
may demand payment of the principal of the instrument at any time. The notes
are not typically rated by credit rating agencies, but issuers of variable
amount master demand notes must satisfy the same criteria as set forth above for
issuers of commercial paper. If an issuer of a variable amount master demand
note defaulted on its payment obligation, a Fund might be unable to dispose of
the note because of the absence of a secondary market and might, for this or
other reasons, suffer a loss to the extent of the default. The Funds invest in
variable amount master demand notes only when the Adviser deems the investment
to involve minimal credit risk.
Investment Companies. The Funds may invest from time to time in securities
--------------------
issued by other investment companies that invest in high-quality, short-term
debt securities. Securities of other investment companies will be acquired by
the Funds within the limits prescribed by the 1940 Act. As a shareholder of
another investment company, the Funds would bear, along with other shareholders,
its pro rata portion of the other investment company's expenses, including
advisory fees, and such fees and other expenses will be borne indirectly by the
Fund's shareholders. These expenses would be in addition to the advisory and
other expenses that the Funds bear directly in connection with their own
operations.
U.S. Government Obligations. The Funds may invest in a variety of U.S.
---------------------------
Treasury obligations including bonds, notes and bills that mainly differ only in
their interest rates, maturities and time of issuance. The Funds may also
invest in other securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its
agencies and instrumentalities; such as obligations of Federal Home Loan Banks,
Federal Farm Credit Banks, Federal Land Banks, the Federal Housing
Administration, Farmers Home Administration, Export-Import Bank of the United
States, Small Business Administration, Government National Mortgage Association,
Federal National Mortgage Association, General Services Administration, Central
Bank for Cooperatives, Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation, Federal
Intermediate Credit Banks, Maritime Administration, and Resolution Trust Corp.
Restricted Securities. The Funds may invest up to 15% of net assets in
---------------------
securities that are illiquid at the time of purchase. While these holdings may
offer more potential for growth, they may present a higher degree of business
and financial risk, which can result in substantial losses. The Funds may have
difficulty valuing these holdings and may be unable to sell these holdings at
the time or price desired. Restricted securities may include Rule 144
Securities. These securities are restricted securities that are eligible for
resale pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933. A Fund may treat
a Rule 144A security as liquid if determined to be so under procedures adopted
by the Board.
Each Fund may also invest in Section 4(2) commercial paper, subject to the
applicable limit, unless the Adviser determines that a liquid market exists.
The Funds may invest in commercial paper issued in reliance on the exemption
from registration afforded by Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933.
Section 4(2) commercial paper is restricted as to disposition under federal
securities law and is generally sold to institutional investors, such as the
Funds, who agree that they are purchasing the paper for investment purposes and
not with a view to public distribution. Any resale by the purchaser must be in
an exempt transaction. Section 4(2) commercial paper is normally resold to
other institutional investors like the Funds through or with the assistance of
the issuer or investment dealers who make a market in Section 4(2) commercial
paper, thus providing liquidity.
When-Issued Purchases, Delayed Delivery and Forward Commitments. The Funds
----------------------------------------------------------------
may purchase or sell particular securities with payment and delivery taking
place at a later date. Additionally, the National Municipal Bond Fund may
purchase or sell securities on a "delayed settlement" basis. This refers to a
transaction in the secondary market that will settle some time in the future.
The price or yield obtained in a transaction may be less favorable than the
price or yield available in the market when the securities delivery or
settlement takes place. Each Fund's forward commitments and when-issued
purchases are not expected to exceed 25% of the value of its total assets (at
the time of purchase) absent unusual market conditions. The National Municipal
Bond Fund expects that its commitments to purchase when-issued securities will
not exceed 5% of its total assets under normal market conditions. When any Fund
agrees to purchase securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis or
enter into a forward commitment to purchase securities, its custodian will set
aside cash or liquid high grade debt securities equal to the amount of the
commitment in a segregated account. Normally, the custodian will set aside
portfolio securities to satisfy a purchase commitment, and in such a case the
Fund may be required subsequently to place additional assets in the segregated
account in order to ensure that the value of the account remains equal to the
amount of the Fund's commitments. It may be expected that the market value of a
Fund's net assets will fluctuate to a greater degree when it sets aside
portfolio securities to cover such purchase commitments than when it sets aside
cash. Because a Fund will set aside cash or liquid assets to satisfy its
purchase commitments in the manner described, a Fund's liquidity and ability to
manage its portfolio might be affected in the event its commitments ever
exceeded 25% of the value of the total assets of each of the Aggregate Bond Fund
and U.S. Government Securities Fund and 5% of the total assets of the National
Municipal Bond Fund's commitments to purchase when-issued securities. In the
case of a forward commitment to sell portfolio securities, the Fund's custodian
will hold the portfolio securities themselves in a segregated account while the
commitment is outstanding. When-issued and forward commitment transactions
involve the risk that the price or yield obtained in a transaction (and
therefore the value of a security) may be less favorable than the price or yield
(and therefore the value of a security) available in the market when the
securities delivery takes place.
The Funds will make commitments to purchase securities on a when-issued
basis or to purchase or sell securities on a forward commitment basis only with
the intention of completing the transaction and actually purchasing or selling
the securities. If deemed advisable as a matter of investment strategy, however,
a Fund may dispose of or renegotiate a commitment after it is entered into, and
may sell securities it has committed to purchase before those securities are
delivered to the Fund on the settlement date. In these cases the Fund may
realize a capital gain or loss.
When the Funds engage in when-issued, delayed delivery and forward
commitment transactions, they rely on the other party to consummate the trade.
Failure of such party to do so may result in a Fund incurring a loss or missing
an opportunity to obtain a price considered to be advantageous.
The market value of the securities underlying a when-issued purchase or a
forward commitment to purchase securities, and any subsequent fluctuations in
their market value, are taken into account when determining the net asset value
of a Fund starting on the day the Fund agrees to purchase the securities. The
Fund does not earn interest on the securities it has committed to purchase until
they are paid for and delivered on the settlement date. When a Fund makes a
forward commitment to sell securities it owns, the proceeds to be received upon
settlement are included in the Fund's assets. Fluctuations in the market value
of the underlying securities are not reflected in the Fund's net asset value as
long as the commitment remains in effect.
Zero Coupon Bonds. Each Fund may invest in zero coupon bonds. Zero coupon
-----------------
bonds have greater price volatility than coupon obligations and will not result
in the payment of interest until maturity, provided that a Fund will purchase
such zero coupon bonds only if the likely relative greater price volatility of
such zero coupon obligations is not inconsistent with the Fund's investment
objective. Although zero coupon securities pay no interest to holders prior to
maturity, interest on these securities is reported as income to the Fund and
distributed to its shareholders. These distributions must be made from a Fund's
cash assets or, if necessary, from the proceeds of sales of portfolio
securities. Additional income producing securities may not be able to be
purchased with cash used to make such distributions and its current income
ultimately may be reduced as a result.
Zero-coupon securities may include U.S. Treasury bills issued directly by
the U.S. Treasury or other short-term debt obligations, and longer-term bonds or
notes and their unmatured interest coupons which have been separated by their
holder, typically a custodian bank or investment brokerage firm. See the
discussion under "Stripped Securities" below for more information.
Stripped Securities. To the extent consistent with their respective
-------------------
investment policies, each Fund may also invest in "stripped" U.S. Treasury
obligations, including (1) coupons that have been stripped from U.S. Treasury
bonds, which are held through the Federal Reserve Bank's book-entry system
called the "Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal Securities"
("STRIPS") program or (2) through the Coupon Under Bank-Entry Safekeeping
("CUBES") program or other stripped securities issued directly by agencies or
instrumentalities of the U.S. government. STRIPS and CUBES represent either
future interest or principal payments and are direct obligations of the U.S.
government that clear through the Federal Reserve System. The Aggregate Bond
Fund may also purchase U.S. Treasury and agency securities that are stripped by
brokerage firms and custodian banks and sold under proprietary names. Having
separated the interest coupons from the underlying principal of the U.S.
government obligations, the holder will resell the stripped securities in
custodial receipt programs with a number of different names including "Treasury
Income Growth Receipts" ("TIGRs") and "Certificates of Accrual on Treasury
Securities" ("CATS"). Such securities may not be as liquid as STRIPS and CUBES
and are not viewed by the staff of the SEC as U.S. government securities for
purposes of the 1940 Act.
Borrowings and Reverse Repurchase Agreements. Each Fund may borrow money to
--------------------------------------------
the extent allowed (as described under "Investment Limitations" below) to meet
shareholder redemptions from banks or in the case of the U.S. Government
Securities Fund and Aggregate Bond Fund, through reverse repurchase agreements.
These strategies involve leveraging. If the securities held by a Fund should
decline in value while borrowings are outstanding, the net asset value of a
Fund's outstanding shares will decline in value by proportionately more than the
decline in value suffered by a Fund's securities. As a result, a Fund's share
price may be subject to greater fluctuation until the borrowing is paid off.
The U.S. Government Securities Fund and Aggregate Bond Fund may invest in
reverse repurchase agreements. Reverse repurchase agreements are considered to
be borrowings under the 1940 Act. At the time a Fund enters into a reverse
repurchase agreement (an agreement under which the Fund sells portfolio
securities and agrees to repurchase them at an agreed-upon date and price), it
will place in a segregated custodial account U.S. government securities or other
liquid high-grade debt securities having a value equal to or greater than the
repurchase price (including accrued interest), and will subsequently monitor the
account to ensure that such value is maintained. Reverse repurchase agreements
involve the risks that the interest income earned by the Fund (from the
investment of the proceeds) will be less than the interest expense of the
transaction, that the market value of the securities sold by the Fund may
decline below the price of the securities it is obligated to repurchase and that
the securities may not be returned to the Fund.
Each Fund intends to limit its borrowings (including reverse repurchase
agreements) during the current fiscal year to not more than 5% of its net
assets.
Other Investment Considerations - Aggregate Bond Fund
-----------------------------------------------------
Foreign Securities. The Aggregate Bond Fund may invest up to 10% of its
------------------
total assets in securities of foreign issuers.
Investments in foreign securities, whether made directly in foreign
securities or dollar-denominated debt obligations of foreign issuers or through
American Depository Receipts ("ADRs") and European Depository Receipts ("EDRs"),
involve certain inherent risks and considerations not typically associated with
investing in U.S. companies, such as political or economic instability of the
issuer or the country of issue, the difficulty of predicting international trade
patterns, changes in exchange rates of foreign currencies and the possibility of
adverse changes in investment or exchange control regulations. There may be
less publicly available information about a foreign company than about a U.S.
company. Foreign companies are not subject to uniform accounting, auditing and
financial reporting standards comparable to those applicable to domestic
companies. In addition, foreign banks and foreign branches of U.S. banks are
subject to less stringent reserve requirements and to different accounting,
auditing, reporting and recordkeeping standards than those applicable to
domestic branches of U.S. banks. Further, foreign stock markets are generally
not as developed or efficient as those in the U.S., and in most foreign markets
volume and liquidity are less than in the U.S. Commissions on foreign stock
exchanges are often fixed and are generally higher than the negotiated
commissions on U.S. exchanges, and there is generally less government
supervision and regulation of foreign stock exchanges, brokers and companies
than in the U.S. With respect to certain foreign countries, there is a
possibility of expropriation or confiscatory taxation, limitations on the
removal of assets or diplomatic developments that could affect investment within
those countries. Additionally, foreign securities and dividends and interest
payable on those securities may be subject to foreign taxes, including foreign
withholding taxes, and other foreign taxes may apply with respect to securities
transactions. See "Taxes." Transactions in foreign securities may involve
greater time from the trade date until the settlement date than domestic
securities transactions, and may involve the risk of possible losses through the
holding of securities in custodians and securities depositories in foreign
countries. Additional costs associated with an investment in foreign securities
may include higher transaction costs and the cost of foreign currency
conversions. Changes in foreign exchange rates will also affect the value of
securities denominated or quoted in currencies other than the U.S. dollar. In
this regard, the Fund does not intend to hedge against foreign currency risk
(except on unsettled trades). Changes in currency exchange rates will affect
the value of unhedged positions and will impact a Fund's net asset value
(positively or negatively) irrespective of the performance of the portfolio
securities held by the Fund. The Fund and its shareholders may encounter
substantial difficulties in obtaining and enforcing judgments against non-U.S.
resident individuals and companies. Because of these and other factors,
securities of foreign companies acquired by the Fund may be subject to greater
fluctuation in price than securities of domestic companies.
Repurchase Agreements. The Aggregate Bond Fund and the U.S. Government
---------------------
Securities Fund (together, the "Taxable Bond Funds") may agree to purchase
securities from financial institutions subject to the seller's agreement to
repurchase them at an agreed upon time and price ("repurchase agreements").
During the term of the agreement, the Adviser will continue to monitor the
creditworthiness of the seller and will require the seller to maintain the value
of the securities subject to the agreement at not less than 102% of the
repurchase price. Default or bankruptcy of the seller would, however, expose
the Fund to possible loss because of adverse market action or delay in
connection with the disposition of the underlying securities. The securities
held subject to a repurchase agreement may have stated maturities exceeding one
year, provided the repurchase agreement itself matures in less than one year.
The repurchase price under the repurchase agreements described in the
Prospectus generally equals the price paid by a Fund plus interest negotiated on
the basis of current short-term rates (which may be more or less than the rate
on the securities underlying the repurchase agreement). Securities subject to
repurchase agreements will be held by the Funds' custodian or in the Federal
Reserve/Treasury book-entry system or other authorized securities depository.
Repurchase agreements are considered to be loans under the 1940 Act.
Mortgage-Backed and Asset-Backed Securities. The Taxable Bond Funds may
-------------------------------------------
purchase mortgage-backed as well as other asset-backed securities (collectively
called "asset-backed securities") that are secured or backed by automobile
loans, installment sale contracts, credit card receivables or other assets and
are issued by entities such as Government National Mortgage Association
("GNMA"), Federal National Mortgage Association ("FNMA"), Federal Home Loan
Mortgage Corporation ("FHLMC"), commercial banks, trusts, financial companies,
finance subsidiaries of industrial companies, savings and loan associations,
mortgage banks and investment banks. These securities represent interests in
pools of assets in which periodic payments of interest and/or principal on the
securities are made, thus, in effect passing through periodic payments made by
the individual borrowers on the assets that underlie the securities, net of any
fees paid to the issuer or guarantor of the securities.
The average life of these securities varies with the maturities and the
prepayment experience of the underlying instruments. The average life of a
mortgage-backed instrument may be substantially less than the original maturity
of the mortgages underlying the securities as the result of scheduled principal
payments and mortgage prepayments. The rate of such mortgage prepayments, and
hence the life of the certificates, will be a function of current market rates
and current conditions in the relevant housing and commercial markets. In
periods of falling interest rates, the rate of mortgage prepayments tends to
increase. During such periods, the reinvestment of prepayment proceeds by a
Fund will generally be at lower rates than the rates that were carried by the
obligations that have been prepaid. As a result, the relationship between
mortgage prepayments and interest rates may give some high-yielding mortgage-
related securities less potential for growth in value than non-callable bonds
with comparable maturities. In calculating the average weighted maturity of
each Fund, the maturity of asset-backed securities will be based on estimates of
average life. There can be no assurance that these estimates will be accurate.
There are a number of important differences among the agencies and
instrumentalities of the U.S. government that issue mortgage-backed securities
and among the securities that they issue. Mortgage-backed securities guaranteed
by GNMA include GNMA Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates (also known as "Ginnie
Maes"), which are guaranteed as to the timely payment of principal and interest
by GNMA, and such guarantee is backed by the full faith and credit of the United
States. GNMA is a wholly owned U.S. government corporation within the
Department of Housing and Urban Development. GNMA certificates also are
supported by the authority of GNMA to borrow funds from the U.S. Treasury to
make payments under its guarantee. Mortgage-backed securities issued by FNMA
include FNMA Guaranteed Mortgage Pass-Through Certificates (also known as
"Fannie Maes"), which are solely the obligations of FNMA and are not backed by
or entitled to the full faith and credit of the United States, but are supported
by the right of the issuer to borrow from the Treasury. FNMA is a government-
sponsored organization owned entirely by private stockholders. Fannie Maes are
guaranteed as to timely payment of the principal and interest by FNMA.
Mortgage-backed securities issued by the FHLMC include FHLMC Mortgage
Participation Certificates (also known as "Freddie Macs" or "PCs"). FHLMC is a
corporate instrumentality of the United States, created pursuant to an Act of
Congress. Freddie Macs are not guaranteed by the United States or by any
Federal Home Loan Bank and do not constitute a debt or obligation of the United
States or of any Federal Home Loan Bank. Freddie Macs entitle the holder to
timely payment of interest, which is guaranteed by the FHLMC. FHLMC guarantees
either ultimate collection or timely payment of all principal payments on the
underlying mortgage loans. When FHLMC does not guarantee timely payment of
principal, FHLMC may remit the amount due on account of its guarantee of
ultimate payment of principal at any time after default on an underlying
mortgage, but in no event later than one year after it becomes payable.
As stated in the Prospectus, the Funds may purchase mortgage-backed
securities such as collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs"). There are
several types of mortgage-backed securities which provide the holder with a pro
rata interest in the underlying mortgages, and CMOs which provide the holder
with a specified interest in the cash flow of a pool of underlying mortgages or
other mortgage-backed securities. CMOs are issued in multiple classes and their
relative payment rights may be structured in many ways. In many cases, however,
payments of principal are applied to the CMO classes in order of their
respective maturities, so that no principal payments will be made on a CMO class
until all other classes having an earlier maturity date are paid in full. The
classes may include accrual certificates (also known as "Z-Bonds"), which do not
accrue interest at a specified rate until other specified classes have been
retired and are converted thereafter to interest-paying securities. They may
also include planned amortization classes ("PACs") which generally require,
within certain limits, that specified amounts of principal be applied to each
payment date, and generally exhibit less yield and market volatility than other
classes. Investments in CMO certificates can expose the Fund to greater
volatility and interest rate risk than other types of mortgage-backed
obligations. Prepayments on mortgage-backed securities generally increase with
falling interest rates and decrease with rising interest rates; furthermore,
prepayment rates are influenced by a variety of economic and social factors.
The yield characteristics of asset-backed securities differ from
traditional debt securities. A major difference is that the principal amount of
the obligations may be prepaid at any time because the underlying assets (i.e.,
loans) generally may be prepaid at any time. As a result, if an asset-backed
security is purchased at a premium, a prepayment rate that is faster than
expected may reduce yield to maturity, while a prepayment rate that is slower
than expected may have the opposite effect of increasing yield to maturity.
Conversely, if an asset-backed security is purchased at a discount, faster than
expected prepayments may increase, while slower than expected prepayments may
decrease, yield to maturity. Moreover, asset-backed securities may involve
certain risks that are not presented by mortgage-backed securities arising
primarily from the nature of the underlying assets (i.e., credit card and
automobile loan receivables as opposed to real estate mortgages). For example,
credit card receivables are generally unsecured and may require the repossession
of personal property upon the default of the debtor, which may be difficult or
impracticable in some cases.
Asset-backed securities may be subject to greater risk of default during
periods of economic downturn than other instruments. Also, while the secondary
market for asset-backed securities is ordinarily quite liquid, in times of
financial stress the secondary market may not be as liquid as the market for
other types of securities, which could result in a Fund experiencing difficulty
in valuing, or liquidating such securities.
In general, the collateral supporting non-mortgage asset-backed securities
is of shorter maturity than mortgage loans. Like other fixed-income securities,
when interest rates rise the value of an asset-backed security generally will
decline; however, when interest rates decline, the value of an asset-backed
security with prepayment features may not increase as much as that of other
fixed-income securities.
Non-mortgage asset-backed securities do not have the benefit of the same
security in the collateral as mortgage-backed securities. Credit card
receivables are generally unsecured and the debtors are entitled to the
protection of a number of state and federal consumer credit laws, many of which
have given debtors the right to reduce the balance due on the credit cards.
Most issuers of automobile receivables permit the servicers to retain possession
of the underlying obligations. If the servicer were to sell these obligations
to another party, there is the risk that the purchaser would acquire an interest
superior to that of the holders of related automobile receivables. In addition,
because of the large number of vehicles involved in a typical issuance and
technical requirements under state laws, the trustee for the holders of the
automobile receivables may not have an effective security interest in all of the
obligations backing such receivables. Therefore, there is a possibility that
payments on the receivables together with recoveries on repossessed collateral
may not, in some cases, be able to support payments on these securities.
Variable Rate Medium Term Notes. The Funds may purchase variable rate
-------------------------------
medium term notes that provide for periodic adjustments in the interest rates.
The adjustments in interest rates reflect changes in an index (which may be the
Lehman Brothers Government/Corporate Total Index or the Lehman Brothers
Aggregate Bond Index).
Other Investment Considerations - Taxable Bond Funds
----------------------------------------------------
Deviation with Index. In order to reduce a negative deviation in return
--------------------
between each Fund and its respective bond index, each Fund will normally attempt
to be fully invested.
In an effort to make a Taxable Bond Fund's duration and return comparable
to those of its respective bond index, the Adviser will monitor a Taxable Bond
Fund's portfolio and market changes in accordance with procedures established by
the Adviser under the supervision of the Board of Directors. The calculation
of the Fund's duration and average portfolio maturity will be based on certain
estimates relating to the duration and maturity of the securities held by the
Funds. There can be no assurance that these estimates will be accurate or that
the duration or average portfolio maturity of a Taxable Bond Fund will always
remain within the maximum limits described in the Prospectus. The value of each
Taxable Bond Fund's portfolio, as is generally the case with each bond index,
can be expected to vary inversely from changes in prevailing interest rates.
Options Trading. The Taxable Bond Funds may purchase put and call options.
---------------
Option purchases by the Taxable Bond Funds will not exceed 10% of each Fund's
net assets. Such options may relate to particular securities or to various
indices and may or may not be listed on a national securities exchange and
issued by the Options Clearing Corporation. This is a highly specialized
activity, which entails greater than ordinary investment risks, including the
complete loss of the amount paid as premiums to the writer of the option.
Regardless of how much the market price of the underlying security or index
increases or decreases, the option buyer's risk is limited to the amount of the
original investment for the purchase of the option. However, options may be
more volatile than the underlying securities or indices, and therefore, on a
percentage basis, an investment in options may be subject to greater fluctuation
than an investment in the underlying securities. In contrast to an option on a
particular security, an option on an index provides the holder with the right to
make or receive a cash settlement upon exercise of the option. The amount of
this settlement will be equal to the difference between the closing price of the
index at the time of exercise and the exercise price of the option expressed in
dollars, times a specified multiple. The Taxable Bond Funds will enter into
such transactions only as a hedge against fluctuations in the value of
securities which the Funds hold or intend to purchase.
A call option gives the purchaser of the option the right to buy, and a
writer the obligation to sell, the underlying security or index at the stated
exercise price at any time prior to the expiration of the option, regardless of
the market price of the security. The premium paid to the writer is in
consideration for undertaking the obligations under the option contract. A put
option gives the purchaser the right to sell the underlying security or index at
the stated exercise price at any time prior to the expiration date of the
option, regardless of the market price of the security or index. Put and call
options purchased by a Fund will be valued at the last sale price or, in the
absence of such a price, at the mean between bid and asked prices.
Each Fund may purchase put options on portfolio securities at or about the
same time that it purchases the underlying security or at a later time. By
buying a put, a Fund limits its risk of loss from a decline in the market value
of the security until the put expires. Any appreciation in the value of and
yield otherwise available from the underlying security, however, will be
partially offset by the amount of the premium paid for the put option and any
related transaction costs. Call options may be purchased by a Fund in order to
acquire the underlying security at a later date at a price that avoids any
additional cost that would result from an increase in the market value of the
security. A call option may also be purchased to increase a Fund's return to
investors at a time when the call is expected to increase in value due to
anticipated appreciation of the underlying security. Prior to its expiration, a
purchased put or call option may be sold in a "closing sale transaction" (a sale
by a Fund, prior to the exercise of the option that it has purchased, of an
option of the same series), and profit or loss from the sale will depend on
whether the amount received is more or less than the premium paid for the option
plus the related transaction costs. In addition, the Taxable Bond Funds may
write covered call options listed on a national securities exchange. Such
options may relate to particular securities owned by a Fund or which it has the
right to acquire. A call option on a security is covered if a Fund owns the
security underlying the call or has an absolute and immediate right to acquire
that security without additional cash consideration (or, if additional cash
consideration is required, cash or cash equivalents in such amount as required
are held in a segregated account by its custodian) upon conversion or exchange
of other securities held by it. A call option is also covered if a Fund holds a
call on the same security as the call written where the exercise price of the
call held is (i) equal to or less than the exercise price of the call written,
or (ii) greater than the exercise price of the call written provided the
difference is maintained by a Fund in cash or cash equivalents in a segregated
account with its custodian. The aggregate value of the Fund's assets subject to
covered options written by the U.S. Government Securities Fund and the Aggregate
Bond Fund will not exceed 25% of the value of each Fund's net assets during the
current year.
A Fund's obligation under a covered call option written by it may be
terminated prior to the expiration date of the option by the Fund executing a
closing purchase transaction, which is effected by purchasing on an exchange an
option of the same series (i.e., same underlying security or index, exercise
price and expiration date) as the option previously written. Such a purchase
does not result in the ownership of an option. A closing purchase transaction
will ordinarily be effected to realize a profit on an outstanding option, to
prevent an underlying security from being called, to permit the sale of the
underlying security or to permit the writing of a new option containing
different terms. The cost of such a liquidation purchase plus transaction costs
may be greater than the premium received upon the original option, in which
event a Fund will have incurred a loss in the transaction. An option position
may be closed out only on an exchange which provides a secondary market for an
option of the same series. There is no assurance that a liquid secondary market
on an exchange will exist for any particular option. A covered call option
writer, unable to effect a closing purchase transaction, will not be able to
sell an underlying security until the option expires or the underlying security
is delivered upon exercise with the result that the writer in such circumstances
will be subject to the risk of market decline during such period. A Fund will
write an option on a particular security only if the Adviser believes that a
liquid secondary market will exist on an exchange for options of the same series
which will permit the Fund to make a closing purchase transaction in order to
close out its position.
By writing a covered call option on a security, a Fund foregoes the
opportunity to profit from an increase in the market price of the underlying
security above the exercise price except insofar as the premium represents such
a profit, and it is not able to sell the underlying security until the option
expires or is exercised or the Fund effects a closing purchase transaction by
purchasing an option of the same series. Except to the extent that a written
call option on an index is covered by an option on the same index purchased by
the Fund, movements in the index may result in a loss to the Fund; however, such
losses may be mitigated by changes in the value of securities held by the Fund
during the period the option was outstanding. The use of covered call options
will not be a primary investment technique of the Funds. When a Fund writes a
covered call option, an amount equal to the net premium (the premium less the
commission) received by the Fund is included in the liability section of the
Fund's statement of assets and liabilities. The amount of the liability will be
subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current value of the option
written. The current value of the traded option is the last sale price or, in
the absence of a sale, the average of the closing bid and asked prices. If an
option expires on the stipulated expiration date or if the Fund enters into a
closing purchase transaction, it will realize a gain (or loss if the cost of a
closing purchase transaction exceeds the net premium received when the option is
sold) and the liability related to such option will be eliminated. Any gain on
a covered call option on a security may be offset by a decline in the market
price of the underlying security during the option period. If a covered call
option on a security is exercised, the Fund may deliver the underlying security
held by it or purchase the underlying security in the open market. In either
event, the proceeds of the sale will be increased by the net premium originally
received, and the Fund will realize a gain or loss. Premiums from expired
options written by a Fund and net gains from closing purchase transactions are
treated as short-term capital gains for federal income tax purposes, and losses
on closing purchase transactions are short-term capital losses.
As noted previously, there are several risks associated with transactions
in options on securities and indices. These risks include (i) an imperfect
correlation between the change in market value of the securities the Fund holds
and the prices of options relating to the securities purchased or sold by the
Fund; and (ii) the possible lack of a liquid secondary market for an option. A
decision as to whether, when and how to use options involves the exercise of
skill and judgment, and a transaction may be unsuccessful to some degree because
of market behavior or unexpected events.
Futures Contracts and Related Options. The Adviser may determine that it
-------------------------------------
would be in the best interest of the Taxable Bond Funds to purchase or sell
futures contracts, or options thereon, as a hedge against changes resulting from
market conditions in the value of the securities held by a Fund, or of
securities which it intends to purchase to maintain liquidity, to have fuller
exposure to price movements in the bond index or to reduce transaction costs.
For example, a Fund may enter into transactions involving a bond index futures
contract, which is a bilateral agreement pursuant to which the parties agree to
take or make delivery of an amount of cash equal to a specified dollar amount
times the difference between the index value (which assigns relative values to
the securities included in the index) at the close of the last trading day of
the contract and the price at which the futures contract is originally struck.
No physical delivery of the underlying bonds in the index is made. The Adviser
may also determine that it would be in the interest of a Fund to purchase or
sell interest rate futures contracts, or options thereon, which provide for the
future delivery of specified fixed-income securities.
Risks associated with the use of futures contracts and options on futures
include (a) imperfect correlation between the change in market values of the
securities held by a Fund and the prices of related futures contracts and
options on futures purchased or sold by the Fund, and (b) the possible lack of a
liquid secondary market for futures contracts (or related options) and the
resulting inability of a Fund to close open futures positions, which could have
an adverse impact on the Fund's ability to hedge.
Positions in futures contracts may be closed out only on an exchange which
provides a secondary market for such futures. However, there can be no
assurance that a liquid secondary market will exist for any particular futures
contract at any specific time. Thus, it may not be possible to close a futures
position. In the event of adverse price movements, the Fund would continue to
be required to make daily cash payments to maintain its required margin. In
such situations, if the Fund has insufficient cash, it may have to sell
portfolio holdings to meet daily margin requirements at a time when it may be
disadvantageous to do so. In addition, the Fund may be required to make
delivery of the instruments underlying futures contracts it holds. The
inability to close options and futures positions also could have an adverse
impact on the Fund's ability to effectively hedge.
Successful use of futures by the Fund is also subject to the Investment
Adviser's ability to correctly predict movements in the direction of the market.
For example, if a Fund has hedged against the possibility of a decline in the
market adversely affecting securities held by it and securities prices increase
instead, the Fund will lose part or all of the benefit to the increased value of
its securities which it has hedged because it will have approximately equal
offsetting losses in its futures positions. In addition, in some situations, if
the Fund has insufficient cash, it may have to sell securities to meet daily
variation margin requirements. Such sales of securities may be, but will not
necessarily be, at increased prices which reflect the rising market. The Fund
may have to sell securities at a time when it may be disadvantageous to do so.
The risk of loss in trading futures contracts in some strategies can be
substantial, due both to the low margin deposits required, and extremely high
degree of leverage involved in futures pricing. As a result, a relatively small
price movement in a futures contract may result in immediate and substantial
loss (as well as gain) to the investor. For example, if at the time of
purchase, 10% of the value of the futures contract is deposited as margin, a
subsequent 10% decrease in the value of the futures contract would result in a
total loss of the margin deposit, before any deduction for the transaction
costs, if the account were then closed out. A 15% decrease would result in a
loss equal to 150% of the original margin deposit, before any deduction for the
transaction costs, if the contract were closed out. Thus, a purchase or sale
of a futures contract may result in losses in excess of the amount invested in
the contract.
Utilization of futures transactions by a Fund involves the risk of loss by
the Fund of margin deposits in the event of bankruptcy of a broker with whom the
Fund has an open position in a futures contract or related option.
Most futures exchanges limit the amount of fluctuation permitted in futures
contract prices during a single trading day. The daily limit establishes the
maximum amount that the price of a futures contract may vary either up or down
from the previous day's settlement price at the end of a trading session. Once
the daily limit has been reached in a particular type of contract, no trades
may be made on that day at a price beyond that limit. The daily limit governs
only price movement during a particular trading day and therefore does not limit
potential losses, because the limit may prevent the liquidation of unfavorable
positions. Futures contract prices have occasionally moved to the daily limit
for several consecutive trading days with little or no trading, thereby
preventing prompt liquidation of futures positions and subjecting some futures
traders to substantial losses.
The trading of futures contracts is also subject to the risk of trading
halts, suspensions, exchange or clearing house equipment failures, government
intervention, insolvency of a brokerage firm or clearing house or other
disruptions of normal trading activity, which could at times make it difficult
or impossible to liquidate existing positions or to recover excess variation
margin payments.
Each Fund's commodities transactions must constitute bona fide hedging or
other permissible transactions pursuant to regulations promulgated by the
Commodities and Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC"). In addition, a Fund may
not engage in such transactions if the sum of the amount of initial margin
deposits and premiums paid for unexpired commodity options, other than for bona
fide hedging transactions, would exceed 5% of the liquidation value of its
assets, after taking into account unrealized profits and unrealized losses on
such contracts it has entered into; provided, however, that in the case of an
option that is in-the-money at the time of purchase, the in-the-money amount may
be excluded in calculating the percentage limitation. In connection with a
futures transaction, unless the transaction is covered in accordance with SEC
positions, the Fund will maintain a segregated account with its custodian or
sub-custodian consisting of cash or liquid high grade debt securities to the
entire amount at risk (less margin deposits) on a continuous basis. The Company
intends to comply with the regulations of the CFTC exempting the Fund from
registrations as a "commodity pool operator".
The Taxable Bond Funds intend to limit their transactions in futures
contracts and related options so that not more than 5% of each Fund's respective
net assets are at risk. For a more detailed description of futures contracts
and futures options, including a discussion of the limitations imposed by
federal tax law, see Appendix B.
Other Investment Considerations--National Municipal Bond Fund
-------------------------------------------------------------
The National Municipal Bond Fund may only invest in investment grade
municipal securities, which are those rated in one of the four highest rating
categories assigned by one or more rating agencies. Municipal securities rated
in the lowest of the four highest rating categories are considered to have
speculative characteristics, even though they are of investment grade quality,
and will be purchased (and retained) only if the Adviser believes that the
issuers have an adequate capacity to pay interest and repay principal.
Municipal securities purchased by the Fund whose ratings are subsequently
downgraded below the four highest rating categories assigned by a rating agency
will be disposed of in an orderly manner, normally within 30 to 60 days. The
applicable ratings issued by rating agencies are described in Appendix A to this
Statement of Additional Information.
Although the Fund may invest 25% or more of its respective net assets in
(i) municipal securities whose issuers are in the same state, (ii) municipal
securities the interest on which is paid solely from revenues of similar
projects, and (iii) private activity bonds, it presently does not intend to do
so unless in the opinion of the Adviser the investment is warranted. To the
extent that the Fund's assets are invested in municipal securities, the issuers
of which are in the same state or that are payable from the revenues of similar
projects or in private activity bonds, the Fund will be subject to the peculiar
risks presented by the laws and economic conditions relating to such projects
and bonds to a greater extent than it would be if its assets were not so
invested.
From time to time, on a temporary defensive basis due to market conditions,
the Fund may hold without any limitation uninvested cash reserves and invest
without any limitations in taxable obligations in such proportions as in the
opinion of the Adviser, prevailing market or economic conditions warrant. Such
instruments may include obligations of the U.S. government, its agencies and
instrumentalities and debt securities (including commercial paper) of issuers
having, at the time of purchase, a quality rating within the two highest rating
categories assigned by one or more rating agencies. Uninvested cash reserves
will not earn income. See "Investment Strategies & Risks - Money Market
Instruments" above.
Municipal Obligations. Municipal obligations which may be acquired by the
---------------------
National Municipal Bond Fund include debt obligations issued by governmental
entities to obtain funds for various public purposes, including the construction
of a wide range of public facilities, the refunding of outstanding obligations,
the payment of general operating expenses and the extension of loans to public
institutions and facilities.
Opinions relating to the validity of municipal obligations and to the
exemption of interest thereon from federal income tax are rendered by bond
counsel to the respective issuers at the time of issuance. Neither the Fund nor
the Adviser will review the proceedings relating to the issuance of municipal
obligations or the basis for such opinions.
Certain of the municipal obligations held by the Fund may be insured at
the time of issuance as to the timely payment of principal and interest. The
insurance policies will usually be obtained by the issuer of the municipal
obligation at the time of its original issuance. In the event that the issuer
defaults on interest or principal payment, the insurer will be notified and will
be required to make payment to the bondholders. There is, however, no guarantee
that the insurer will meet its obligations. In addition, such insurance will
not protect against market fluctuations caused by changes in interest rates and
other factors, including credit downgrades, supply and demand.
The payment of principal and interest on most securities purchased by the
Fund will depend upon the ability of the issuers to meet their obligations. An
issuer's obligations under its municipal obligations are subject to the
provisions of bankruptcy, insolvency, and other laws affecting the rights and
remedies of creditors, such as the Federal Bankruptcy Code, and laws, if any,
which may be enacted by federal or state legislatures extending the time for
payment of principal or interest, or both, or imposing other constraints upon
enforcement of such obligations or upon the ability of municipalities to levy
taxes. The power or ability of an issuer to meet its obligations for the
payment of interest on, and principal of, its municipal obligations may be
materially adversely affected by litigation or other conditions.
Certain types of municipal obligations (private activity bonds) have been
or are issued to obtain funds to provide privately operated housing facilities,
pollution control facilities, convention or trade show facilities, mass transit,
airport, port or parking facilities and certain local facilities for water
supply, gas, electricity or sewage or solid waste disposal. Private activity
bonds are also issued on behalf of privately held or publicly owned corporations
in the financing of commercial or industrial facilities. State and local
governments are authorized in most states to issue private activity bonds for
such purposes in order to encourage corporations to locate within their
communities. The principal and interest on these obligations may be payable
from the general revenues of the users of such facilities. Furthermore, payment
of principal and interest on municipal securities of certain projects may be
secured by mortgages or deeds of trust. In the event of a default, enforcement
of the mortgages or deeds of trust will be subject to statutory enforcement
procedures and limitations, including rights of redemption and limitations on
obtaining deficiency judgments. In the event of a foreclosure, collection of
the proceeds of the foreclosure may be delayed, and the amount of proceeds from
the foreclosure may not be sufficient to pay the principal of and accrued
interest on the defaulted municipal securities. Interest on private activity
bonds, although free from regular federal income taxation, may be an item of tax
preference for purposes of the federal alternative minimum tax.
Municipal obligations purchased by the Fund may be backed by letters of
credit issued by foreign and domestic banks and other financial institutions.
Such letters of credit are not necessarily subject to federal deposit insurance
and adverse developments in the banking industry could have a negative effect on
the credit quality of the Fund's portfolio securities and its net asset value
and share price. Letters of credit issued by foreign banks, like other
obligations of foreign banks, may involve certain risks in addition to those of
domestic obligations.
From time to time, proposals have been introduced before Congress for the
purpose of restricting or eliminating the federal income tax exemption for
interest on municipal obligations. For example, under the Tax Reform Act of
1986, interest on certain private activity bonds must be included in an
investor's alternative minimum taxable income, and corporate investors must
include all tax-exempt interest in their federal alternative minimum taxable
income. The Company cannot, of course, predict what legislation, if any, may be
proposed in the future as regards the income tax status of interest on municipal
obligations, or which proposals, if any, might be enacted. Such proposals,
while pending or if enacted, might materially and adversely affect the
availability of municipal obligations for investment by the Fund and the
liquidity and value of the Fund's portfolio. In such an event, the Company
would reevaluate the Fund's investment objective and policies and consider
possible changes in its structure or possible dissolution.
Municipal Lease Obligations. The Fund may acquire municipal lease
---------------------------
obligations that are issued by a state or local government authority to acquire
land and a wide variety of equipment and facilities. These obligations typically
are not fully backed by the municipality's credit, and their interest may become
taxable if the lease is assigned. If the funds are not appropriated for the
following year's lease payments, the lease may terminate, with the possibility
of default on the lease obligation and significant loss to the Fund.
Certificates of participation in municipal lease obligations or installment sale
contracts entitle the holder to a proportionate interest in the lease-purchase
payments made. The Adviser determines and monitors the liquidity of municipal
lease obligations (including certificates of participation) under guidelines
approved by the Board of Directors requiring the Adviser to evaluate the credit
quality of such obligations and report on the nature of and the Fund's trading
experience in the municipal lease market. Under the guidelines, municipal lease
obligations that are not readily marketable and transferable are treated as
illiquid. In making a determination that a municipal lease obligation is
liquid, the Adviser may consider, among other things (i) whether the lease can
be canceled; (ii) the likelihood that the assets represented by the lease can be
sold; (iii) the strength of the lessee's general credit; (iv) the likelihood
that the municipality will discontinue appropriating funds for the leased
property because the property is no longer deemed essential to the operations of
the municipality; and (v) availability of legal recourse in the event of failure
to appropriate. The Fund will not knowingly invest more than 10% of the value
of its net assets in securities, including municipal leases, that are illiquid.
Stand-By Commitments. The National Municipal Bond Fund may acquire
--------------------
"stand-by commitments" with respect to municipal obligations held in its
portfolio. Under a "stand-by commitment" a dealer agrees to buy from the Fund,
at the Fund's option, specified municipal obligations at a specified price.
"Stand-by commitments" acquired by the Fund may also be referred to in this
Statement of Additional Information as "put" options.
The amount payable to the Fund upon its exercise of a "stand-by commitment"
is normally (i) the Fund's acquisition cost of the municipal obligations
(excluding any accrued interest which the Fund paid on their acquisition), less
any amortized market premium or plus any amortized market or original issue
discount during the period the Fund owned the securities, plus (ii) all interest
accrued on the securities since the last interest payment date during that
period. A stand-by commitment may be sold, transferred or assigned by the Fund
only with the instrument involved.
The Fund expects that "stand-by commitments" will generally be available
without the payment of any direct or indirect consideration. However, if
necessary or advisable, the Fund may pay for a "stand-by commitment" either
separately in cash or by paying a higher price for the portfolio securities
which are acquired subject to the commitment (thus reducing the yield to
maturity otherwise available for the same securities). The total amount paid in
either manner for outstanding "stand-by commitments" held by the Fund will not
exceed 1/2 of 1% of the value of its total assets calculated immediately after
each "stand-by commitment" is acquired.
The Fund intends to enter into "stand-by commitments" only with dealers,
banks and broker/dealers which, in the investment adviser's opinion, present
minimal credit risks. The Fund's reliance upon the credit of these dealers,
banks and broker/dealers is secured by the value of the underlying municipal
obligations that are subject to a commitment.
The Fund would acquire "stand-by commitments" solely to facilitate
portfolio liquidity and does not intend to exercise its rights thereunder for
trading purposes. The acquisition of a "stand-by commitment" would not affect
the valuation or assumed maturity of the underlying Municipal Securities, which
would continue to be valued in accordance with the ordinary method of valuation
employed by the Fund. "Stand-by commitments" which would be acquired by the Fund
would be valued at zero in determining net asset value. Where the Fund paid any
consideration directly or indirectly for a "stand-by commitment" its cost would
be reflected as unrealized depreciation for the period during which the
commitment was held by the Fund.
Tax-Exempt Derivatives. Subject to its investment limitations, the Fund
----------------------
may hold tax-exempt derivatives which may be in the form of tender option bonds,
participations, beneficial interests in a trust, partnership interests or other
forms. The Adviser expects that less than 5% of the Fund's assets will be
invested in such securities during the current year. A number of different
structures have been used. For example, interests in long-term fixed-rate
municipal securities, held by a bank as trustee or custodian, are coupled with
tender option, demand and other features when the tax-exempt derivatives are
created. Together, these features entitle the holder of the interest to tender
(or put), the underlying municipal securities to a third party at periodic
intervals and to receive the principal amount thereof. In some cases, municipal
securities are represented by custodial receipts evidencing rights to receive
specific future interest payments, principal payments, or both, on the
underlying municipal securities held by the custodian. Under such arrangements,
the holder of the custodial receipt has the option to tender the underlying
municipal security at its face value to the sponsor (usually a bank or broker
dealer or other financial institution), which is paid periodic fees equal to the
difference between the bond's fixed coupon rate and the rate that would cause
the bond, coupled with the tender option, to trade at par on the date of a rate
adjustment. The Fund may hold tax-exempt derivatives, such as participation
interests and custodial receipts, for municipal securities which give the holder
the right to receive payment of principal subject to the conditions described
above. The Internal Revenue Service has not ruled on whether the interest
received on tax-exempt derivatives in the form of participation interests or
custodial receipts is tax-exempt, and accordingly, purchases of any such
interests or receipts are based on the opinion of counsel to the sponsors of
such derivative securities. Neither the Company nor the Adviser will review the
proceedings related to the creation of any tax-exempt derivatives or the basis
for such opinions.
Variable and Floating Rate Instruments. Municipal obligations purchased by
--------------------------------------
the Fund may include variable and floating rate instruments issued by industrial
development authorities and other governmental entities. If such instruments
are unrated, they will be determined by the Fund's Adviser (under the
supervision of the Board of Directors) to be of comparable quality at the time
of purchase to investment grade. While there may be no active secondary market
with respect to a particular variable or floating rate demand instrument
purchased by the Fund, the Fund may (at any time or during specified periods not
exceeding thirteen months, depending upon the instrument involved) demand
payment in full of the principal of the instrument and has the right to resell
the instrument to a third party. The absence of such an active secondary
market, however, could make it difficult for the Fund to dispose of a variable
or floating rate demand instrument if the issuer defaulted on its payment
obligation or during periods that the Fund is not entitled to exercise its
demand rights, and the Fund could, for these or other reasons, suffer a loss
with respect to such instruments.
With respect to the variable and floating rate instruments that may be
acquired by the National Municipal Bond Fund the Adviser will consider the
earning power, cash flows and other liquidity ratios of the issuers and
guarantors of such instruments and, if the instrument is subject to a demand
feature, will monitor their financial status to meet payment on demand. In
determining average weighted portfolio maturity, an instrument will usually be
deemed to have a maturity equal to the longer of the period remaining to the
next interest rate adjustment or the time the Fund can recover payment of
principal as specified in the instrument. Variable U.S. government obligations
held by the Fund, however, will be deemed to have maturities equal to the period
remaining until the next interest rate adjustment.
The variable and floating rate demand instruments that the Fund may
purchase include participations in municipal securities purchased from and owned
by financial institutions, primarily banks. Participation interests provide the
Fund with a specified undivided interest (up to 100%) in the underlying
obligation and the right to demand payment of the unpaid principal balance plus
accrued interest on the participation interest from the institution upon a
specified number of days' notice, not to exceed thirty days. Each participation
interest is backed by an irrevocable letter of credit or guarantee of a bank
that the Adviser has determined meets the prescribed quality standards for the
Fund. The bank typically retains fees out of the interest paid on the
obligation for servicing the obligation, providing the letter of credit and
issuing the repurchase commitment.
Other Portfolio Information
---------------------------
American Depository Receipts ("ADRs") and European Depository Receipts
----------------------------------------------------------------------
("EDRs"). The Aggregate Bond Fund may invest in sponsored ADRs. ADRs are
--------
receipts issued by an American bank or trust company evidencing ownership of
underlying securities issued by a foreign issuer. ADRs may be listed on a
national securities exchange or may trade in the over-the-counter market. ADR
prices are denominated in U.S. dollars; the underlying security may be
denominated in a foreign currency. The underlying security may be subject to
foreign government taxes which would reduce the yield on such securities.
Investments in foreign securities and ADRs also involve certain inherent risks,
such as political or economic instability of the country of issue, the
difficulty of predicting international trade patterns and the possibility of
imposition of exchange controls. Such securities may also be subject to greater
fluctuations in price than securities of domestic corporations. In addition,
there may be less publicly available information about a foreign company than
about a domestic company. Foreign companies generally are not subject to
uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards comparable to
those applicable to domestic companies. With respect to certain foreign
countries, there is a possibility of expropriation or confiscatory taxation, or
diplomatic developments which could affect investment in those countries.
While "sponsored" and "unsponsored" ADR programs are similar, there are
differences regarding ADR holders' rights and obligations and the practices of
market participants. A depository may establish an unsponsored facility without
participation by (or acquiescence of) the underlying issuer; typically, however,
the depository requests a letter of non-objection from the underlying issuer
prior to establishing the facility. Holders of unsponsored ADRs generally bear
all the costs of the ADR facility. The depository usually charges fees upon the
deposit and withdrawal of the underlying securities, the conversion of dividends
into U.S. dollars, the disposition of non-cash distribution, and the performance
of other services. The depository of an unsponsored facility frequently is
under no obligation to distribute shareholder communications received from the
underlying issuer or to pass through voting rights to ADR holders in respect of
the underlying securities.
Sponsored ADR facilities are created in generally the same manner as
unsponsored facilities, except that sponsored ADRs are established jointly by a
depository and the underlying issuer through a deposit agreement. The deposit
agreement sets out the rights and responsibilities of the underlying issuer, the
depository and the ADR holders. With sponsored facilities, the underlying
issuer typically bears some of the costs of the ADR (such as dividend payment
fees of the depository), although ADR holders may bear costs such as deposit and
withdrawal fees. Depositories of most sponsored ADRs agree to distribute
notices of shareholder meetings, voting instructions, and other shareholder
communications and information to the ADR holders at the underlying issuer's
request.
The Fund may also invest in EDRs. EDRs are receipts issued by a European
financial institution evidencing ownership of underlying foreign securities.
The underlying security may be subject to foreign government taxes, which would
reduce the yield on such securities.
Convertible Securities. The Aggregate Bond Fund may hold convertible
----------------------
securities. Convertible securities entitle the holder to receive interest paid
or accrued on debt or the dividend paid on preferred stock until the securities
mature or are redeemed, converted or exchanged. Prior to conversion,
convertible securities have characteristics similar to ordinary debt securities
in that they normally provide a stable stream of income with generally higher
yields than those of common stock of the same or similar issuers. Convertible
securities rank senior to common stock in a corporation's capital structure and
therefore generally entail less risk than the corporation's common stock,
although the extent to which such risk is reduced depends in large measure upon
the degree to which the convertible security sells above its value as a fixed
income security. In investing in convertibles, the Fund is looking for the
opportunity, through the conversion feature, to participate in the capital
appreciation of the common stock into which the securities are convertible,
while earning higher current income than is available from the common stock.
The Fund may not purchase convertible or other securities that (1) are not
rated at the time of purchase investment grade by S&P, Moody's or other
nationally recognized rating agencies or (2) are unrated and have not been
determined by the Adviser to be of comparable quality to a security rated
investment grade. Securities rated below investment grade are predominantly
speculative and are commonly referred to as junk bonds. To the extent the Fund
purchases convertibles rated below investment grade or convertibles that are not
rated, a greater risk exists as to the timely repayment of the principal of, and
the timely payment of interest or dividends on, such securities. Subsequent to
its purchase by the Fund, a rated security may cease to be rated or its rating
may be reduced below a minimum rating for purchase by the Fund. The Adviser
will consider such an event in determining whether the Fund should continue to
hold the security. The Adviser will sell promptly any securities that are non-
investment grade as a result of these events and that exceed 5% of the Fund's
net assets.
Investment Limitations
----------------------
Except as otherwise noted in the Prospectus or this Statement of Additional
Information, the Company's investment policies are not fundamental and may be
changed by the Company's Board of Directors without shareholder approval.
However, the Funds also have in place certain fundamental investment
limitations, which are set forth below, which may be changed only by a vote of a
majority of the outstanding Shares of the Fund.
The Funds may not:
1. Make investments for the purpose of exercising control or management.
2. Purchase or sell real estate, provided that each Fund may invest in
securities secured by real estate or interests therein or issued by companies or
investment trusts which invest in real estate or interests therein; provided
further that, (a) the Aggregate Bond Fund may invest in first mortgage loans,
income participation loans and participation certificates in pools of mortgages,
including mortgages issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies or
its instrumentalities and CMOs; and (b) the U.S. Government Securities Fund may
invest in certain mortgage-backed securities, including CMOs, and certain other
securities.
3. Act as an underwriter of securities within the meaning of the Securities
Act of 1933 except insofar as a Fund might be deemed to be an underwriter upon
disposition of portfolio securities acquired within the limitation on purchases
of restricted securities and except to the extent that the purchase of
obligations directly from the issuer thereof in accordance with a Fund's
investment objective, policies and limitations may be deemed to be underwriting.
4. Purchase or sell commodity contracts, or invest in oil, gas or mineral
exploration or development programs, except that the National Municipal Bond
Fund may, to the extent appropriate to its investment objective, purchase
publicly traded securities of companies engaging in whole or in part in such
activities.
5. Purchase securities on margin, make short sales of securities or maintain a
short position, except that (a), with the exception of the National Municipal
Bond Fund, this investment limitation shall not apply to a Fund's transactions
in options, and futures contracts and related options, and (b) a Fund may obtain
short-term credits as may be necessary for the clearance of purchases and sales
of portfolio securities.
6. Purchase securities of any one issuer (other than obligations issued or
guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities) if,
immediately after and as a result of such investments, more than 5% of the
Fund's total assets would be invested in the securities of such issuer, or more
than 10% of the issuer's outstanding voting securities would be owned by the
Company or the Fund, except that up to 25% of the Fund's total assets may be
invested without regard to such limitations.
7. Purchase any securities which would cause 25% or more of the Fund's total
assets at the time of purchase to be invested in the securities of one or more
issuers conducting their principal business activities in the same industry,
provided however, that (a) with respect to the U.S. Government Securities Fund
and the Aggregate Bond Fund (i) there is no limitation with respect to
obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or
instrumentalities, and repurchase agreements secured by obligations of the U.S.
government or its agencies or instrumentalities; (ii) wholly-owned finance
companies will be considered to be in the industries of their parents if their
activities are primarily related to financing the activities of their parents;
and (iii) utilities will be divided according to their services (for example,
gas, gas transmission, electric and gas, electric, and telephone will each be
considered a separate industry); and (b) with respect to the National Municipal
Bond Fund, there is no limitation with respect to obligations issued or
guaranteed by the U.S. government, any state, territory or possession of the
U.S. government, the District of Columbia, or any of their authorities,
agencies, instrumentalities or political subdivisions.
8. Borrow money or issue senior securities, except that each Fund may borrow
from banks and the Aggregate Bond Fund and U.S. Government Securities Fund may
enter into reverse repurchase agreements for temporary defensive purposes in
amounts not in excess of 10% of the Fund's total assets at the time of such
borrowing; or mortgage, pledge, or hypothecate any assets, except in connection
with any such borrowing and in amounts not in excess of the lesser of the dollar
amounts borrowed or 10% of the Fund's total assets at the time of such
borrowing; or purchase securities while its borrowings exceed 5% of its total
assets. A Fund's transactions in futures and related options (including the
margin posted by a Fund in connection with such transactions), and securities
held in escrow or separate accounts in connection with a Fund's investment
practices described in the Prospectus or this Statement of Additional
Information are not subject to this limitation.
9. Make loans, except that (a) each Fund may purchase or hold debt
instruments, lend portfolio securities and make other investments in accordance
with its investment objective and policies, and (b) the Aggregate Bond Fund may
enter into repurchase agreements.
NET ASSET VALUE
The net asset value per share of each Fund is calculated separately for
the Retail A Shares, Retail B Shares, Institutional Shares and Y Shares by
adding the value of all portfolio securities and other assets belonging to the
particular Fund that are allocated to a particular series, subtracting the
liabilities charged to that series, and dividing the result by the number of
outstanding shares of that series. Assets belonging to a Fund consist of the
consideration received upon the issuance of shares of the particular Fund
together with all net investment income, realized gains/losses and proceeds
derived from the investment thereof, including any proceeds from the sale of
such investments, any funds or payments derived from any reinvestment of such
proceeds, and a portion of any general assets of the Company not belonging to a
particular investment portfolio. The liabilities that are charged to a Fund are
borne by each share of the Fund, except for certain payments under the Funds'
Distribution and Service Plans and Shareholder Servicing Plans applicable only
to Retail A Shares, Retail B Shares and Y Shares. Subject to the provisions of
the Articles of Incorporation, determinations by the Board of Directors as to
the direct and allocable liabilities, and the allocable portion of any general
assets, with respect to a particular Fund are conclusive.
Net asset value for purposes of pricing purchase and redemption orders is
determined as of the close of regular trading hours on the New York Stock
Exchange (the "Exchange"), normally, 3:00 p.m. Central Time, on each day the
Exchange is open for trading. Currently, the Exchange observes the following
holidays: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good
Friday, Memorial Day (observed), Independence Day (observed), Labor Day,
Thanksgiving and Christmas.
Shares which are traded on a recognized domestic stock exchange are valued
at the last sale price on the securities exchange on which such securities are
primarily traded or at the last sale price on the national securities market.
The value of a Fund's portfolio securities that are traded on stock exchanges
outside the United States are based upon the price on the exchange as of the
close of business of the exchange immediately preceding the time of valuation,
except when an occurrence subsequent to the time a value was so established is
likely to have changed such value. Exchange- traded securities for which there
were no transactions are valued at the current bid prices for the Funds.
Securities traded on only over-the-counter markets are valued on the basis of
closing over-the-counter bid prices. Securities trading in over-the-counter
markets in European and Pacific Basin countries is normally completed well
before 3:00 p.m. Central time. In addition, European and Pacific Basin
securities trading may not take place on all business days. Furthermore,
trading takes place in Japanese markets on certain Saturdays and in various
foreign markets on days which are not business days in New York and on which the
net asset value of a Fund is not calculated. The calculation of the net asset
value of a Fund may not take place contemporaneously with the determination of
the prices of portfolio securities used in such calculation. Events affecting
the values of portfolio securities that occur between the time their prices are
determined and 3:00 p.m. Central time, and at other times, may not be reflected
in the calculation of net asset value of a Fund.
ADDITIONAL PURCHASE AND REDEMPTION INFORMATION
Computation of Offering Price of the Funds. An illustration of the
------------------------------------------
computation of the initial offering price per share of the Retail A Shares of
the U.S. Government Securities Fund, Aggregate Bond Fund and National Municipal
Bond Funds is set forth below. This computation is based on the value of the
net assets and number of outstanding securities of the Predecessor Mercantile
U.S. Government Securities Fund, Predecessor Mercantile Government & Corporate
Fund and Predecessor Mercantile National Municipal Bond Fund, respectively, at
May 31, 2000, as follows:
U.S. Government Aggregate National
Securities Bond Municipal
Fund Fund Bond Fund
------------ ------------ ------------
Net Assets $3,778,614 $3,096,351 $1,437,564
Number of Shares Outstanding $ 372,572 $ 319,934 $ 155,603
Net Asset Value Per Share $10.14 $9.68 $9.24
Sales Charge, 4.00% of
offering price (4.17%
of net asset value
per share) 4.00% 4.00% 4.00%
Public Offering Price $ 10.56 $ 10.08 $ 9.63
Shareholder organizations or Institutions may be paid by the Funds for
advertising, distribution or shareholder services. Depending on the terms of the
particular account, shareholder organizations or Institutions also may charge
their customers fees for automatic investment, redemption and other services
provided. Such fees may include, for example, account maintenance fees,
compensating balance requirements or fees based upon account transactions,
assets or income. Shareholder organizations or Institutions are responsible for
providing information concerning these services and any charges to any customer
who must authorize the purchase of Fund shares prior to such purchase.
Under the 1940 Act, the Funds may suspend the right of redemption or
postpone the date of payment for shares during any period when (a) trading on
the Exchange is restricted by applicable rules and regulations of the SEC; (b)
the Exchange is closed for other than customary weekend and holiday closings;
(c) the SEC has by order permitted such suspension; or (d) an emergency exists
as determined by the SEC. (The Funds may also suspend or postpone the recording
of the transfer of their shares upon the occurrence of any of the foregoing
conditions.)
The Company has filed an election pursuant to Rule 18f-1 under the 1940
Act which provides that each portfolio of the Company is obligated to redeem
shares solely in cash up to $250,000 or 1% of such portfolio's net asset value,
whichever is less, for any one shareholder within a 90-day period. Any
redemption beyond this amount may be made in proceeds other than cash.
In addition to the situations described in the Funds' Prospectus under
"Redeeming Shares," the Funds may redeem shares involuntarily when appropriate
under the 1940 Act, such as to reimburse the Funds for any loss sustained by
reason of the failure of a shareholder to make full payment for shares purchased
by the shareholder or to collect any charge relating to a transaction effected
for the benefit of a shareholder which is applicable to Fund shares as provided
in the Prospectus from time to time.
Reducing Your Sales Charge on Retail A Shares.
---------------------------------------------
A. Rights of Accumulation
As stated in the Prospectus, a reduced sales charge applies to any purchase
of Retail A Shares of any Firstar Fund that is sold with a sales charge (an
"Eligible Fund") where an investor's then current aggregate investment is
$100,000 or more. "Aggregate investment" means the total of (a) the dollar
amount of the then current purchase of shares of an Eligible Fund, and (b) the
value (based on current net asset value) of previously purchased and
beneficially owned shares of any Eligible Fund on which a sales charge has been
paid. If, for example, an investor beneficially owns shares of one or more
Eligible Fund, with an aggregate current value of $99,000 on which a sales
charge has been paid and subsequently purchases shares of an Eligible Fund which
is an Equity Fund having a current value of $1,000, the sales charge applicable
to the subsequent purchase would be reduced to 3.50% of the offering price.
Similarly, each subsequent investment in Eligible Fund shares may be added to an
investor's aggregate investment at the time of purchase to determine the
applicable sales charge.
B. Letter of Intent
As discussed in the Prospectus, Retail A Shares of the Company purchased
over a 13-month period through a Letter of Intent qualify for the same reduced
sales charge as if all purchased at once. During the term of the Letter of
Intent, the transfer agent will hold in escrow shares equal to 5% of the amount
indicated in the Letter of Intent for payment of a higher sales charge if an
investor does not purchase the full amount indicated in the Letter of Intent.
The escrow will be released when an investor fulfills the terms of the Letter of
Intent by purchasing the specified amount. Any redemptions made during the 13-
month period will be subtracted from the amount of purchases in determining
whether the Letter of Intent has been completed. If total purchases qualify for
a further sales charge reduction, the sales charge will be adjusted to reflect
an investor's total purchases. If total purchases are less than the amount
specified in the Letter of Intent, an investor will be requested to remit an
amount equal to the difference between the sales charge actually paid and the
sales charge applicable to the total purchases. If such remittance is not
received within 20 days, the transfer agent, as attorney-in-fact pursuant to the
terms of the Letter of Intent and at the Distributor's direction, will redeem an
appropriate number of shares held in escrow to realize the difference. Signing
a Letter of Intent does not bind an investor to purchase the full amount
indicated as the sales charge in effect at the time of signing, but an investor
must complete the intended purchase in accordance with the terms of the Letter
of Intent to obtain the reduced sales charge. To apply, an investor must
indicate his or her intention to do so under a Letter of Intent at the time of
purchase of Shares.
Exchange Privilege. By use of the exchange privilege, shareholders
------------------
authorize the transfer agent to act on telephonic or written exchange
instructions from any person representing himself to be the shareholder or in
some cases, the shareholder's registered representative or account
representative of record, and believed by the transfer agent to be genuine. The
transfer agent's records of such instructions are binding. The exchange
privilege may be modified or terminated at any time upon notice to shareholders.
Exchange transactions described in paragraphs A, B, C, D, E, F and G below
will be made on the basis of the relative net asset values per share of the
Funds included in the transaction.
A. Retail A Shares of any Fund purchased with a sales charge, as well as
additional shares acquired through reinvestment of dividends or distributions on
such shares, may be exchanged without a sales charge for other Retail A Shares
of any other Fund offered by the Company.
B. Retail A Shares of any Fund offered by the Company or money market fund
shares ("MMF Shares") acquired by a previous exchange transaction involving
Retail A Shares on which a sales charge has directly or indirectly been paid
(e.g., shares purchased with a sales charge or issued in connection with an
exchange involving shares that had been purchased with a sales charge) as well
as additional Shares acquired through reinvestment of dividends or distributions
on such Shares, may be exchanged without a sales charge for Retail A Shares of
any other Fund offered by the Company with a sales charge. To accomplish an
exchange under the provisions of this paragraph, investors must notify the
transfer agent of their prior ownership of Retail A Shares and their account
number.
C. Retail B Shares acquired pursuant to an exchange transaction will
continue to be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge. However, Retail B
Shares that have been acquired through an exchange of Retail B Shares may be
exchanged for other Retail B Shares without the payment of a contingent deferred
sales charge at the time of exchange. In determining the holding period for
calculating the contingent deferred sales charge payable on redemption of Retail
B Shares, the holding period of the shares originally held will be added to the
holding period of the shares acquired through exchange.
D. Retail B Shares may be exchanged for MMF Shares (but not for
Institutional Money Market Fund Shares) without paying a contingent deferred
sales charge. In determining the holding period for calculating the contingent
deferred sales charge payable on redemption of Retail B Shares, the holding
period of the shares originally held will be added to the holding period of the
shares acquired through exchange. If the shareholder subsequently exchanges the
shares back into Retail B Shares of a Fund, the holding period accumulation on
the shares will continue to accumulate. In the event that a shareholder wishes
to redeem MMF Shares acquired by exchange for Retail B Shares of a Fund, the
contingent deferred sales charge applicable to the accumulated Retail B Shares
and money market fund shares will be charged.
E. Retail A Shares of any Fund may be exchanged without a sales load for
Retail A Shares in any other Firstar Fund that are offered without a sales load.
F. Institutional Shares of any Fund may be exchanged for Institutional
Shares of any other Firstar Fund.
G. Y Shares of any Fund may be exchanged for Y Shares of any other Firstar
Fund. Y Shares of the Fund may be exchanged for shares of the Institutional
Money Market Fund or Institutional Shares of a Money Market Fund.
Except as stated above, a sales load will be imposed when shares of any
Fund that were purchased or otherwise acquired without a sales load are
exchanged for Retail A Shares of another Firstar Fund which are sold with a
sales load.
Retail A Shares of any Fund will be exchanged for Institutional Shares if
the shares are registered in the name of an employer-sponsored qualified
retirement plan administered by Firstar and assets equal or exceed $1 million at
the preceding month-end. The date of the exchange will be 15 business days
following the month-end in which the plan assets equal or exceed $1 million.
Shares in a Fund from which the shareholder is withdrawing an investment
will be redeemed at the net asset value per share next determined on the date of
receipt. Shares of the new Fund into which the shareholder is investing will be
purchased at the net asset value per share next determined (plus any applicable
sales charge) after acceptance of the request by the Company in accordance with
the policies for accepting investments. Exchanges of Shares will be available
only in states where they may legally be made.
Exemptions from CDSC. Certain types of redemptions may also qualify for an
--------------------
exemption from the contingent deferred sales charge. To receive exemptions (i),
(ii) or (iii) below, a shareholder must explain the status of his or her
redemption. If you think you may be eligible for a contingent deferred sales
charge waiver listed below, be sure to notify your Shareholder Organization or
the Distributor at the time Retail B Shares are redeemed. The following is a
more detailed description of certain of the instances described in the
Prospectus in which the contingent deferred sales charge with respect to the B
Shares is not assessed:
(i) redemptions in connection with required (or, in some cases, discretionary)
distributions to participants or beneficiaries of an employee pension, profit
sharing or other trust or qualified retirement or Keogh plan, individual
retirement account or custodial account maintained pursuant to Section 403(b)(7)
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), due to death,
disability or the attainment of a specified age;
(ii) redemptions in connection with the death or disability of a shareholder; or
(iii) redemptions resulting from certain tax-free returns from IRAs of excess
contributions pursuant to section 408(d)(4) or (5) of the Code.
Retirement Plans: Retail A and Retail B Shares of the Funds
-----------------------------------------------------------
Individual Retirement Accounts. The Company has available a plan (the
------------------------------
"Traditional IRA") for use by individuals with compensation for services
rendered (including earned income from self-employment) who wish to use shares
of the Funds as a funding medium for individual retirement saving. However,
except for rollover contributions, an individual who has attained, or will
attain, age 70 1/2 before the end of the taxable year may only contribute to a
Traditional IRA for his or her nonworking spouse under age 70 1/2. Distribution
of an individual's Traditional IRA assets (and earnings thereon) before the
individual attains age 59 1/2 will (with certain exceptions) result in an
additional 10% tax on the amount included in the individual's gross income.
Earnings on amounts contributed to the Traditional IRA are not subject to
federal income tax until distributed.
The Company also has available a Roth Individual Retirement Account (the
"Roth IRA") for retirement saving for use by individuals with compensation for
services rendered. A single individual with adjusted gross income of up to
$110,000 may contribute to a Roth IRA (for married couples filing jointly, the
adjusted gross income limit is $160,000), and contributions may be made even
after the Roth IRA owner has attained age 70 1/2, as long as the account owner
has earned income. Contributions to a Roth IRA are not deductible. Earnings on
amounts contributed to a Roth IRA, however, are not subject to federal income
tax when distributed if the distribution is a "qualified distribution" (i.e.,
the Roth IRA has been held for at least five years beginning with the first tax
year for which a contribution was made to any Roth IRA of the account owner and
the distribution is due to the account owner's attainment of age 59 1/2,
disability or death, or for qualified first-time homebuyer expenses). A non-
qualified distribution of an individual's Roth IRA assets (and the earnings
thereon) will (with certain exceptions) result in an additional 10% tax on the
amount included in the individual's gross income.
The Company permits certain employers (including self-employed individuals)
to make contributions to employees' Traditional IRAs if the employer establishes
a Simplified Employee Pension ("SEP") plan and/or a Salary Reduction SEP
("SARSEP"). Although SARSEPs may not be established after 1996, employers may
continue to make contributions to SARSEPs established before January 1, 1997,
under the pre-1997 federal tax law. A SEP permits an employer to make
discretionary contributions to all of its employees' Traditional IRAs (employees
who have not met certain eligibility criteria may be excluded) equal to a
uniform percentage of each employee's compensation (subject to certain limits).
If an employer (including a self-employed individual) established a SARSEP
before January 1, 1997, employees may defer a percentage of their compensation -
- pre-tax -- to Traditional IRAs (subject to certain limits). The Code provides
certain tax benefits for contributions by an employer, pursuant to a SEP and/or
SARSEP, to an employee's Traditional IRA. For example, contributions to an
employee's Traditional IRA pursuant to a SEP and/or SARSEP are deductible
(subject to certain limits) and the contributions and earnings thereon are not
taxed until distributed.
Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees of Small Employers. The Company
-------------------------------------------------------------
also has available a simplified tax-favored retirement plan for employees of
small employers (a "SIMPLE IRA Plan"). If an employer establishes a SIMPLE IRA
Plan, contributions under the Plan are made to eligible employees' SIMPLE
individual retirement accounts ("SIMPLE IRAs"). Each eligible employee may
choose to defer a percentage of his or her pre-tax compensation to the
employee's SIMPLE IRA. The employer must generally make an annual matching
contribution to the SIMPLE IRA of each eligible employee equal to the employee's
salary reduction contributions, up to a limit of 3 percent of the employee's
compensation. Alternatively, the employer may make an annual non-discretionary
contribution to the SIMPLE IRA of each eligible employee equal to 2 percent of
each employee's compensation. As with contributions to an employee's IRA
pursuant to a SEP and/or SARSEP, the Code provides tax benefits for
contributions by an employer, pursuant to a SIMPLE IRA Plan, to an employee's
SIMPLE IRA. For example, contributions to an employee's SIMPLE IRA are
deductible (subject to certain limits) and the contributions and earnings
thereon are not taxed until distributed.
In the SIMPLE IRA Plan and in Traditional and Roth IRAs, distributions of
net investment income and capital gains will be automatically reinvested.
The foregoing brief descriptions are not complete or definitive
explanations of the SIMPLE IRA Plan, the Traditional IRA, or the Roth IRA
available for investment in the Funds. Any person who wishes to establish a
retirement plan account may do so by contacting Investor Services at 800-677-
FUND. The complete Plan documents and applications will be provided to existing
or prospective shareholders upon request, without obligation. The Company
recommends that investors consult their attorneys or tax advisors to determine
if the retirement programs described herein are appropriate for their needs.
Additional Information Regarding Shareholder Services for Retail Shares
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
The Retail A and Retail B Shares of the Funds offer a Periodic Investment
Plan whereby a shareholder may automatically make purchases of shares of a Fund
on a regular, monthly basis ($50 minimum per transaction). Under the Periodic
Investment Plan, a shareholder's designated bank or other financial institution
debits a preauthorized amount on the shareholder's account each month and
applies the amount to the purchase of Retail A and Retail B Shares. The
Periodic Investment Plan must be implemented with a financial institution that
is a member of the Automated Clearing House. No service fee is currently
charged by a Fund for participation in the Periodic Investment Plan. A $20 fee
will be imposed by the transfer agent if sufficient funds are not available in
the shareholder's account or the shareholder's account has been closed at the
time of the automatic transaction.
The Periodic Investment Plan permits an investor to use "Dollar Cost
Averaging" in making investments. Instead of trying to time market performance,
a fixed dollar amount is invested in Retail A or Retail B Shares at
predetermined intervals. This may help investors to reduce their average cost
per share because the agreed upon fixed investment amount allows more Retail A
or Retail B Shares to be purchased during periods of lower Retail A or Retail B
Share prices and fewer Retail A or Retail B Shares to be purchased during
periods of higher Retail A or Retail B Share prices. In order to be effective,
Dollar Cost Averaging should usually be followed on a sustained, consistent
basis. Investors should be aware, however, that Retail A or Retail B Shares
bought using Dollar Cost Averaging are purchased without regard to their price
on the day of investment or to market trends. Dollar Cost Averaging does not
assure a profit and does not protect against losses in a declining market. In
addition, while investors may find Dollar Cost Averaging to be beneficial, it
will not prevent a loss if an investor ultimately redeems his Retail A or Retail
B Shares at a price which is lower than their purchase price. An investor may
want to consider his financial ability to continue purchases through periods of
low price levels.
The Retail A and Retail B Shares of the Funds permit shareholders to
effect ConvertiFund/R transactions, an automated method by which a shareholder
of either of these Classes may invest proceeds from one account to another
account of the Retail A or Retail B Shares of the Firstar family of funds, as
the case may be. Such proceeds include dividend distribution, capital gain
distributions and systematic withdrawals. ConvertiFund/R transactions may be
used to invest funds from a regular account to another regular account, from a
qualified plan account to another qualified plan account, or from a qualified
plan account to a regular account.
The Retail A and Retail B Shares of the Funds offer shareholders a
Systematic Withdrawal Plan, which allows a shareholder who owns shares of a Fund
worth at least $5,000 at current net asset value at the time the shareholder
initiates the Systematic Withdrawal Plan to designate that a fixed sum ($50
minimum per transaction) be distributed to the shareholder or as otherwise
directed at regular intervals.
Special Procedures for In-Kind Payments
---------------------------------------
Payment for shares of a Fund may, in the discretion of the Fund, be made
in the form of securities that are permissible investments for the Fund as
described in its Prospectus. For further information about this form of
payment, contact Investor Services at 1-800-677-FUND. In connection with an in-
kind securities payment, a Fund will require, among other things, that the
securities be valued on the day of purchase in accordance with the pricing
methods used by the Fund; that the Fund receive satisfactory assurances that it
will have good and marketable title to the securities received by it; that the
securities be in proper form for transfer to the Fund; that adequate information
be provided to the Fund concerning the basis and other tax matters relating to
the securities; and that the amount of the purchase be at least $1,000,000.
DESCRIPTION OF SHARES
The Company's Articles of Incorporation authorize the Board of Directors to
issue up to 150,000,000,000 full and fractional shares of common stock, $.0001
par value per share, which is divided into thirty classes (each, a "class" or
"fund"). Each class of the Funds included in this SAI is divided into four
series designated as Y Shares, Institutional Shares, Retail A Shares and Retail
B Shares (each, a "Series") and consists of the number of authorized shares set
forth next to its Fund name in the table below:
Class-Series of Fund in which Stock Number of Authorized
Common Stock Represents Interest Shares in Each Series
----------------- ------------------------ ---------------------
22-Institutional Aggregate Bond 100 Million
22-Y 100 Million
22-A 100 Million
22-B 100 Million
23-Institutional U.S. Government Securities 100 Million
23-Y 100 Million
23-A 100 Million
23-B 100 Million
24-Institutional National Municipal Bond 100 Million
24-Y 100 Million
24-A 100 Million
24-B 100 Million
The Board of Directors has also authorized the issuance of classes 1
through 21 common stock representing interests in twenty-one other separate
investment portfolios which are described in separate statements of additional
information. The remaining authorized shares are classified into six additional
classes representing interests in other potential future investment portfolios
of the Company. The Directors may similarly classify or reclassify any
particular class of shares into one or more additional series.
In the event of a liquidation or dissolution of the Company or an
individual Fund, shareholders of a particular Fund would be entitled to receive
the assets available for distribution belonging to such Fund, and a
proportionate distribution, based upon the relative assets of the Company's
respective investment portfolios, of any general assets not belonging to any
particular portfolio which are available for distribution. Subject to the
allocation of certain costs, expenses, charges and reserves attributed to the
operation of a particular series as described in the Funds' Prospectus,
shareholders of a Fund are entitled to participate equally in the net
distributable assets of the particular Fund involved on liquidation, based on
the number of shares of the Fund that are held by each shareholder.
Shareholders of each class of the Funds are entitled to one vote for each
full share held and proportionate fractional votes for fractional shares held.
Shareholders of the Funds, as well as those of any other investment portfolio
offered by the Company, will vote together in the aggregate and not separately
on a portfolio-by -portfolio basis, except as otherwise required by law or when
the Board of Directors determines that the matter to be voted upon affects only
the interests of the shareholders of a particular class or a particular series
within a class. Rule 18f-2 under the 1940 Act provides that any matter required
to be submitted to the holders of the outstanding voting securities of an
investment company such as the Company shall not be deemed to have been
effectively acted upon unless approved by the shareholders of each portfolio
affected by the matter. A portfolio is affected by a matter unless it is clear
that the interests of each portfolio in the matter are substantially identical
or that the matter does not affect any interest of the portfolio. Under the
Rule, the approval of an investment advisory agreement or any change in a
fundamental investment policy would be effectively acted upon with respect to a
portfolio only if approved by a majority of the outstanding shares of such
portfolio. However, the Rule also provides that the ratification of the
appointment of independent accountants, the approval of principal underwriting
contracts and the election of Directors may be effectively acted upon by
shareholders of the Company voting together in the aggregate without regard to
particular portfolios. Similarly, on any matter submitted to the vote of
shareholders which only pertains to agreements, liabilities or expenses
applicable to one series of a Fund (such as a Distribution and Service Plan
applicable to Retail A or B Shares) but not the other series of the same Fund,
only the affected series will be entitled to vote. Each share of a class of a
Fund represents an equal proportionate interest with other shares of other
classes in that Fund, respectively. Shares are entitled to such dividends and
distributions earned on its assets as are declared at the discretion of the
Board of Directors. Shares of the Funds do not have preemptive rights.
When issued for payment as described in the Funds' Prospectus and this
SAI, shares of the Funds will be fully paid and non-assessable by the Company,
except as provided in Section 180.0622(2)(b) of the Wisconsin Business
Corporation Law, as amended, which in general provides for personal liability on
the part of a corporation's shareholders for unpaid wages of employees. The
Company does not intend to have any employees and, to that extent, the foregoing
statute will be inapplicable to holders of Fund shares and will not have a
material effect on the Company.
The Articles of Incorporation authorize the Board of Directors, without
shareholder approval (unless otherwise required by applicable law), to: (a)
sell and convey the assets belonging to a series of shares to another management
investment company for consideration which may include securities issued by the
purchaser and, in connection therewith, to cause all outstanding shares of such
series to be redeemed at a price which is equal to their net asset value and
which may be paid in cash or by distribution of the securities or other
consideration received from the sale and conveyance; (b) sell and convert the
assets belonging to a series of shares into money and, in connection therewith,
to cause all outstanding shares of such series to be redeemed at their net asset
value; or (c) combine the assets belonging to a series of shares with the assets
belonging to one or more other series of shares if the Board of Directors
reasonably determines that such combination will not have a material adverse
effect on the shareholders of any series participating in such combination and,
in connection therewith, to cause all outstanding shares of any such series to
be redeemed or converted into shares of another series of shares at their net
asset value.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONCERNING TAXES
Each Fund intends to qualify as a regulated investment company under
Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, and to distribute out its income to
shareholders each year, so that the Fund itself generally will be relieved of
federal income and excise taxes. If a Fund were to fail to so qualify: (1) the
Fund would be taxed at regular corporate rates without any deduction for
distributions to shareholders; and (2) shareholders would be taxed as if they
received ordinary dividends, although corporate shareholders could be eligible
for the dividends received deduction. Moreover, if a Fund were to fail to make
sufficient distributions in a year, the Fund would be subject to corporate
income taxes and/or excise taxes in respect of the shortfall or, if the
shortfall is large enough, the Fund could be disqualified as a regulated
investment company.
A 4% non-deductible excise tax is imposed on regulated investment companies
that fail to distribute with respect to each calendar year at least 98% of their
ordinary taxable income for the calendar year and capital gain net income
(excess of capital gains over capital losses) for the one year period ending
October 31 of such calendar year and 100% of any such amounts that were not
distributed in the prior year. Each Fund intends to make sufficient
distributions or deemed distributions of its ordinary taxable income and any
capital gain net income prior to the end of each calendar year to avoid
liability for this excise tax.
Dividends declared in October, November or December of any year that are
payable to shareholders of record on a specified date in such months will be
deemed to have been received by shareholders and paid by a Fund on December 31
of such year if such dividends are actually paid during January of the following
year.
Each Fund will be required in certain cases to withhold and remit to the
United States Treasury 31% of taxable dividends or gross sale proceeds paid to
any shareholder who (i) has failed to provide a correct tax identification
number, (ii) is subject to back-up withholding by the Internal Revenue Service
for failure to properly include on his or her return payments of taxable
interest or dividends, or (iii) has failed to certify to the Fund that he or she
is not subject to back-up withholding when required to do so or that he or she
is an "exempt recipient."
The National Municipal Bond Fund intends to invest all or substantially
all, of its assets in debt obligations, the interest on which is exempt for
federal income tax purposes. For the Fund to pay tax-exempt dividends for any
taxable year, at least 50% of the aggregate value of the Fund's assets at the
close of each quarter of the Fund's taxable year must consist of exempt-interest
obligations.
The National Municipal Bond Fund is designed to provide investors with
current tax-exempt interest income. The Fund is not intended to constitute a
balanced investment program and is not designed for investors seeking capital
appreciation or maximum tax-exempt income irrespective of fluctuations in
principal. Shares of the Fund may not be suitable for tax-exempt institutions,
or for retirement plans qualified under Section 401 of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986 (the "Code"), H.R. 10 plans and individual retirement accounts because
such plans and accounts are generally tax-exempt and, therefore, not only would
not gain any additional benefit from the Fund's dividends being tax-exempt, but
such dividends ultimately would be taxable to the beneficiaries when distributed
to them. In addition, the Fund may not be an appropriate investment for
entities which are "substantial users" of facilities financed by private
activity bonds or "related persons" thereof. "Substantial user" is defined under
U.S. Treasury Regulations to include a non-exempt person who regularly uses a
part of such facilities in his trade or business and whose gross revenues
derived with respect to the facilities financed by the issuance of bonds are
more than 5% of the total revenues derived by all users of such facilities, who
occupies more than 5% of the usable area of such facilities, or for whom such
facilities, or a part thereof were specifically constructed, reconstructed or
acquired. "Related persons" include certain related natural persons, affiliated
corporations, a partnership and its partners and an S Corporation and its
shareholders.
MANAGEMENT OF THE COMPANY
The business and affairs of the Funds are managed under the direction of
the Board of Directors of the Company. The Board is responsible for acting on
behalf of the shareholders.
The Board does not normally hold shareholder meetings except when required
by the 1940 Act or other applicable law. The Board will call a shareholders'
meeting for the purpose of voting on the question of removal of a Director when
requested to do so in writing by the record holders of not less than 10% of the
outstanding shares of the Company that are entitled to vote.
Directors and Officers
----------------------
The Directors and Officers of the Company, their addresses,
principal occupations during the past five years and other affiliations are as
follows:
Principal Occupations During Past 5
Position(s) held Years
Name, Address & Age with the Company and Other Affiliations
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
James M. Wade Chairman Vice President and Chief Financial
2802 Wind Bluff of the Officer, Johnson Controls, Inc. (a
Circle Board controls manufacturing company),
Wilmington, NC 28409 January 1987-May 1991.
Age: 57
Glen R. Bomberger Director Executive Vice President, Chief
One Park Plaza Financial Officer and Director,
11270 West Park Place A.O. Smith Corporation (a
Milwaukee, WI 53224- diversified manufacturing company)
3690 since January 1987; Director of
Age: 63 companies affiliated with A.O.
Smith Corporation; Director, Smith
Investment Company; Director of
companies affiliated with Smith
Investment Company.
Jerry G. Remmel Director Vice President, Treasurer and Chief
16650 A Lake Circle Financial Officer of Wisconsin
Brookfield, WI 53005 Energy Corporation 1994-1996;
Age: 69 Treasurer of Wisconsin Electric
Power Company 1973-1996; Director
of Wisconsin Electric Power Company
1989-1996; Senior Vice President,
Wisconsin Electric Power Company
1988 - 1994; Chief Financial
Officer, Wisconsin Electric Power
Company 1983-1996; Vice President
and Treasurer, Wisconsin Electric
Power Company, 1983 - 1989.
Richard K. Riederer Director President and Chief Executive
400 Three Springs Officer of Weirton Steel since
Drive 1995; Director of Weirton Steel
Weirton, WV 26062- since 1993; Executive Vice
4989 President and Chief Financial
Age: 56 Officer, Weirton Steel January 1994
- 1995; Vice President of Finance
and Chief Financial Officer,
Weirton Steel January 1989-1994;
Member, Board of Directors of
American Iron and Steel Institute
since 1995; Member, Board of
Directors, National Association of
Manufacturers since 1995; Member,
Board of Directors, WESBANCO since
September 1997; Trustee of Carnegie
Mellon University since 1997.
Charles R. Roy Director Vice President - Finance, Chief
14245 Heatherwood Financial Officer and Secretary,
Court Rexnord Corporation (an equipment
Elm Grove, WI 53122 manufacturing company), 1988 -
Age: 69 1992; Vice President - Finance and
Administration, Rexnord Inc., 1982
- 1988; Officer and Director of
several Rexnord subsidiaries until
1992.
Bruce Laning<F1> Director, President and CEO, FIRMCO, since
777 E. Wisconsin President and 2000; Director, FIRMCO since
Avenue, Treasurer 2000; Senior Vice President,
Suite 800 FIRMCO since 1999; Vice
Milwaukee, WI 53202 President, FIRMCO since 1994.
Age: 40
Bronson J. Haase<F1> Director Employee of Wisconsin Energy
626 E. Wisconsin since April, 2000; President and
Avenue CEO of Wisconsin Gas Company,
Milwaukee, WI 53202 WICOR Energy, FieldTech and Vice
Age: 56 President of WICOR, Inc. since
1998; President and CEO of
Ameritech - Wisconsin (formerly
Wisconsin Bell) 1993-1998;
President of Wisconsin Bell
Communications 1988-1993; Board
of Directors, The Marcus
Corporation; Trustee of Roundy
Foods; Chairman of the Wisconsin
Utilities Association.
W. Bruce McConnel Secretary Partner of the law firm of
One Logan Square Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP.
18th & Cherry Streets
Philadelphia, PA
19103
Age: 57
Laura J. Rauman Vice President Senior Vice President of
777 E. Wisconsin Operations, FIRMCO since 1995;
Avenue, Vice President of Mercantile
Suite 800 Mutual Funds, Inc. since 2000;
Milwaukee, WI 53202 Senior Auditor, Price Waterhouse,
Age: 31 LLP, prior thereto.
Joseph C. Neuberger Assistant Senior Vice President, Firstar
615 E. Michigan Street Treasurer Mutual Fund Services, LLC since
Milwaukee, WI 53202 1994; Manager, Arthur Andersen
Age: 38 LLP, prior thereto.
<F1> Mr. Haase and Mr. Laning are considered by the Company to be "interested
persons" of the Company as defined in the 1940 Act.
The following chart provides certain information about the Director fees
for the year ended October 31, 1999 of the Company's Directors.
TOTAL
PENSION OR COMPENSATION
RETIREMENT ESTIMATED FROM COMPANY
AGGREGATE BENEFITS ANNUAL AND FUND
NAME OF COMPENSATION ACCRUED BENEFITS COMPLEX<F1>
PERSON/ FROM AS PART OF UPON PAID TO
POSITION THE COMPANY FUND EXPENSES RETIREMENT DIRECTORS
------------ ------------ ------------ ------------ ------------
James M. Wade
Chairman of the Board $18,500 $0 $0 $18,500
Glen R. Bomberger
Director $15,000<F2> $0 $0 $15,000
Jerry G. Remmel
Director $15,000 $0 $0 $15,000
Richard K. Riederer
Director $15,000 $0 $0 $15,000
Charles R. Roy
Director $15,000 $0 $0 $15,000
Bronson J. Haase
Director $15,000 $0 $0 $15,000
<F1> The "Fund Complex" includes only the Company. The Company is comprised of
24 separate portfolios.
<F2> Includes $15,000 which Mr. Bomberger elected to defer under the Company's
deferred compensation plan.
Each Director receives an annual fee of $10,000, a $1,000 per meeting
attendance fee and reimbursement of expenses incurred as a Director. The
Chairman of the Board is entitled to receive an additional $3,500 per annum for
services in such capacity. During the prior fiscal year, the Directors and
Officers received aggregate fees and reimbursed expenses of $88,492. Mr.
Laning, Ms. Rauman and Mr. Neuberger receive no fees from the Company for their
services as President and Treasurer, Vice President and Assistant Treasurer,
respectively, although FIRMCO, of which Mr. Laning and Ms. Rauman are President
and Vice President of Operations, respectively, receives fees from the Company
for advisory services and Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC of which Mr.
Neuberger is Senior Vice President, receives fees from the Company for
administration, transfer agency and accounting services. FIRMCO is a wholly
owned subsidiary of Firstar Corporation. Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, of which
Mr. McConnel is a partner, receives legal fees as counsel to the Company. As of
the date of this SAI, the Directors and Officers of the Company, as a group,
owned less than 1% of the outstanding shares of each Fund.
Directors, employees, retirees and their families of Firstar Corporation
or its affiliates are exempt and do not have to pay front-end sales charges
(provided the status of the investment is explained at the time of investment)
on purchases of Retail A Shares. These exemptions to the imposition of a front-
end sales charge are due to the nature of the investors and/or the reduced sales
efforts that will be needed in obtaining such investments.
Advisory Services
-----------------
FIRMCO, a Wisconsin limited liability company and subsidiary of Firstar
Corporation, a bank holding company, became the investment adviser to the Funds
on March 1, 2000.
FIRMCO is entitled to be paid contractual fees computed daily and paid
monthly, at the annual rate (as a percentage of such Fund's average daily net
assets) as follows:
Amount Amount
Fund Before Waivers After Waivers
---- -------------- -------------
U.S. Government Securities Fund 0.60% 0.50%
Aggregate Bond Fund 0.50% 0.45%
National Municipal Bond Fund 0.55% 0.55%
FIRMCO has contractually agreed to waive fees and reimburse expenses for
Retail A, Retail B, Y and Institutional Shares for the U.S. Government
Securities and Aggregate Bond Funds until October 31, 2001.
Prior to March 1, 2000, investment advisory services for the Predecessor
Funds were provided by Mississippi Valley Advisors Inc. ("MVA"), a subsidiary of
Firstar Corporation.
For the fiscal years ended November 30, 1999, 1998 and 1997, MVA was paid
advisory fees, after waivers, as follows:
Net Advisory Fees Paid (Waivers)
--------------------------------
Predecessor Mercantile Fund 1999 1998 1997
--------------------------- ---- ---- ----
U.S. Government
Securities Fund $479,599 ($0) $459,829 ($0) $357,824 ($0)
Government & Corporate
Bond Fund $795,816 ($0) $913,545 ($0) $743,332 ($0)
National Municipal
Bond Fund $2,017,683 ($0) $1,389,193($663,264) $0 ($1,812,782)
FIRMCO is also the investment adviser to the Money Market Fund,
Institutional Money Market Fund, U.S. Treasury Money Market Fund, U.S.
Government Money Market Fund, Tax-Exempt Money Market Fund, Short-Term Bond
Market Fund, Special Growth Fund, Bond IMMDEXTM Fund, Equity Index Fund, Growth
Fund, Intermediate Bond Market Fund, Balanced Income Fund, Balanced Growth Fund,
National Municipal Bond Fund, Emerging Growth Fund, MicroCap Fund, MidCap Index
Fund, International Equity Fund, Core International Equity Fund and Small Cap
Aggressive Growth Fund. In its Investment Advisory Agreement, the Adviser has
agreed to pay all expenses incurred by it in connection with its advisory
activities, other than the cost of securities and other investments, including
brokerage commissions and other transaction charges, if any, purchased or sold
for the Funds.
In addition to the compensation stated in the Prospectus, the Adviser is
entitled to 4/10ths of the gross income earned by each Fund on each loan of its
securities, excluding capital gains or losses, if any. Pursuant to current
policy of the SEC, the Adviser does not intend to receive compensation for such
securities lending activity. The Adviser may waive advisory fees otherwise
payable by the Funds.
Under its Investment Advisory Agreement, the Adviser is not liable for any
error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Funds in
connection with the performance of such Agreement, except a loss resulting from
a breach of fiduciary duty with respect to the receipt of compensation for
services or a loss resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross
negligence on the part of the Adviser in the performance of its duties or from
its reckless disregard of its duties and obligations under the Agreement.
REGULATORY MATTERS. Conflict of interest restrictions may apply to the
------------------
receipt of compensation paid pursuant to a Servicing Agreement by a Fund to a
financial intermediary in connection with the investment of fiduciary funds in a
Funds' Shares. Institutions, including banks regulated by the Comptroller of
the Currency and investment advisers and other money managers subject to the
jurisdiction of the SEC, the Department of Labor or state securities
commissions, should consult legal counsel before entering into Servicing
Agreements.
Shares of the Funds are not bank deposits, are neither endorsed by,
insured by, or guaranteed by, obligations of, nor otherwise supported by the
FDIC, the Federal Reserve Board, Firstar Bank, N.A. or FIRMCO, their affiliates
or any other bank, or any other governmental agency. An investment in the Funds
involves risks including possible loss of principal.
Administration and Distribution Services
----------------------------------------
Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC serves as administrator (the
"Administrator") to the Company. Under the Fund Administration Servicing
Agreement, the Administrator has agreed to maintain office facilities, furnish
clerical services, stationery and office supplies; monitor the company's
arrangements with respect to services provided by Shareholder Organizations and
Institutions; and generally assist in the Company's operations. The following
administrative services are also provided by Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC:
compile data for and prepare, with respect to the Company, timely Notices to the
SEC required pursuant to Rule 24f-2 under the 1940 Act and Semi-Annual Reports
to the SEC and current Shareholders; coordinate execution and filing by the
Company of all federal and state tax returns and required tax filings other than
those required to be made by the Company's custodian and transfer agent; prepare
compliance filings and Blue Sky registrations pursuant to state securities laws
with the advice of the Company's counsel; assist to the extent requested by the
Company with the Company's preparation of Annual and Semi-Annual Reports to the
Funds' shareholders and Registration Statements for the Funds; monitor the
Funds' expense accruals and cause all appropriate expenses to be paid on proper
authorization from the Funds; monitor the Funds' status as a regulated
investment company under Subchapter M of the Code; maintain the Funds' fidelity
bond as required by the 1940 Act; and monitor compliance with the policies and
limitations of the Funds as set forth in the Prospectus and SAI.
The Administrator is entitled to receive a fee for its administrative
services, computed daily and payable monthly, at the annual rate of 0.125% of
the Company's first $2 billion of average aggregate daily net assets, plus 0.10%
of the Company's average aggregate daily net assets in excess of $2 billion.
The Administrator may voluntarily waive all or a portion of its administrative
fee from time to time. This waiver may be terminated at any time at the
Administrator's discretion.
Under the Fund Administration Servicing Agreement, the Administrator is
not liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered
by the Funds in connection with the performance of the Agreement, except a loss
resulting from willful misconduct, bad faith or negligence on the part of the
Administrator in the performance of its duties.
Prior to January 1, 2000, BISYS Fund Services Ohio, Inc. ("BISYS Ohio")
served as administrator to the Predecessor Funds. Effective January 1, 2000,
BISYS Ohio and Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC served as co-administrators of
the Predecessor Funds.
For the fiscal years ended November 30, 1999, 1998 and 1997,
administrative fees, after waivers, were paid to BISYS Ohio as follows:
Net Administration Fees Paid (Waivers)
--------------------------------------
Predecessor
Mercantile Fund 1999 1998 1997
--------------------------- ---- ---- ----
U. S. Government
Securities Fund $106,581($106,576) $102,187($102,181) $79,519($79,515)
Government &
Corporate
Bond Fund $176,852($176,846) $203,015($203,004) $165,196($165,189)
National Municipal
Bond Fund $366,861($366,848) $318,916($427,432) $181,277($478,060)
The Distributor, located at 615 East Michigan Street, Milwaukee, Wisconsin
53202, provides distribution services for the Company as described in the Funds'
Prospectus pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with the Funds under which the
Distributor, as agent, sells shares of the Funds on a continuous basis. The
Distributor has agreed to use its best efforts to solicit orders for the sale of
shares, although it is not obliged to sell any particular amount of shares. The
Distributor causes expenses to be paid for the cost of printing and distributing
prospectuses to persons who are not shareholders of the Fund (excluding
preparation and printing expenses necessary for the continued registration of
the Fund's shares) and of printing and distributing all sales literature.
BISYS Fund Services Limited Partnership ("BISYS") served as the
distributor of the Predecessor Mercantile Funds for the fiscal years ended
November 30, 1999, 1998 and 1997. With respect to each Predecessor Mercantile
Funds' class of shares corresponding to Institutional and Y Shares, no
compensation was payable by the Funds to BISYS for distribution services. For
the fiscal years ended November 30, 1999, 1998 and 1997, BISYS received front-
end sales charges in connection with Retail A Shares (known as Investor A Shares
with respect to the Predecessor Mercantile Funds) purchases as follows:
Predecessor Mercantile U.S. Government Securities Fund--$10,810, $1,218 and
$2,052, respectively; Predecessor Mercantile Government & Corporate Bond Fund--
$7,960, $8,853 and $9,635, respectively; and Predecessor Mercantile National
Municipal Bond Fund--$12,643, $9,641 and $4,340, respectively. Of these
amounts, BISYS retained $1,786, $227 and $0, respectively, and FIRMCO and
affiliates retained $2,212, $1,206 and $310, respectively, with respect to the
Predecessor Mercantile U.S. Government Securities Fund; BISYS retained $907,
$1,210 and $0, respectively, and FIRMCO and affiliates retained $1,906, $2,025
and $6,721, respectively, with respect to the Predecessor Mercantile Government
& Corporate Bond Fund; and BISYS retained $1,881, $940 and $0 and FIRMCO and
affiliates retained $0, $0 and $0 with respect to the Predecessor Mercantile
National Municipal Bond Fund.
For the fiscal years ended November 30, 1999, 1998 and 1997, BISYS
received contingent deferred sales charges in connection with Retail B share
(known as Investor B Shares with respect to the Predecessor Mercantile Funds)
redemptions of the Predecessor Mercantile Funds as follows: Predecessor
Mercantile U.S. Government Securities Fund--$6,039, $3,024 and $8,968;
Predecessor Mercantile Government & Corporate Bond Fund--$11,981, $7,194 and
$4,075; and Predecessor Mercantile National Municipal Bond Fund--$16,367, $7,014
and $34,256.
Shareholder Organizations
-------------------------
Retail A Shares
As stated in the Funds' Prospectus, the Funds intend to enter into
agreements from time to time with Shareholder Organizations providing for
support and/or distribution services to customers of the Shareholder
Organizations who are the beneficial owners of Retail A Shares of the Fund.
Under the agreements, the Funds may pay Shareholder Organizations up to 0.25%
(on an annualized basis) of the average daily net asset value of Retail A Shares
beneficially owned by their customers. Support services provided by Shareholder
Organizations under their Service Agreements or Distribution and Service
Agreements may include: (i) processing dividend and distribution payments from
a Fund; (ii) providing information periodically to customers showing their share
positions; (iii) arranging for bank wires; (iv) responding to customer
inquiries; (v) providing sub-accounting with respect to shares beneficially
owned by customers or the information necessary for sub-accounting; (vi)
forwarding shareholder communications; (vii) assisting in processing share
purchase, exchange and redemption requests from customers; (viii) assisting
customers in changing dividend options, account designations and addresses; and
(ix) other similar services requested by the Funds. In addition, Shareholder
Organizations, under the Distribution and Service Plan applicable to Retail A
Shares, may provide assistance (such as the forwarding of sales literature and
advertising to their customers) in connection with the distribution of Retail A
Shares. All fees paid under these agreements are borne exclusively by the
Funds' Retail A Shares.
The Funds' arrangements with Shareholder Organizations under the agreements
are governed by two Plans (a Service Plan and a Distribution and Service Plan)
for the Retail A Shares, which have been adopted by the Board of Directors.
Retail B Shares
The Company has also adopted a Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to
Rule 12b-1 and a Service Plan with respect to the Retail B Shares of the Funds.
Under the Distribution and Service Plan, payments by the Company (i) for
distribution expenses may not exceed 0.75% (annualized) of the average daily
net assets attributable to a Fund's outstanding Retail B Shares; and (ii) for
shareholder liaison services may not exceed 0.25% (annualized), respectively, of
the average daily net assets attributable to each Fund's outstanding Retail B
Shares. Under the separate Service Plan for the Retail B Shares, payments by
the Company for shareholder administrative support services may not exceed 0.25%
(annualized) of the average daily net assets attributable to each Fund's
outstanding Retail B Shares.
Because the Distribution and Service Plans contemplate the provision of
services related to the distribution of Retail A and Retail B Shares (in
addition to support services), those Plans have been adopted in accordance with
Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. In accordance with the Plans, the Board of
Directors reviews, at least quarterly, a written report of the amounts expended
in connection with the Funds' arrangements under the Plans and the purposes for
which the expenditures were made. In addition, the arrangements must be
approved annually by a majority of the Directors, including a majority of the
Directors who are not "interested persons" of the Funds (as defined in the 1940
Act) and have no direct or indirect financial interest in such arrangements (the
"Disinterested Directors").
Y Shares
As stated in the Funds' Prospectus, the Funds intend to enter into
agreements from time to time with Shareholder Organizations providing for
support services to customers of the Shareholder Organizations who are the
beneficial owners of Y Shares of the Fund. Under the agreements, the Funds may
pay Shareholder Organizations up to 0.25% (on an annualized basis) of the
average daily net asset value of Y Shares beneficially owned by their customers.
Support services provided by Shareholder Organizations under their Service
Agreements may include: (i) processing dividend and distribution payments from
a Fund; (ii) providing information periodically to customers showing their share
positions; (iii) arranging for bank wires; (iv) responding to customer
inquiries; (v) providing sub-accounting with respect to shares beneficially
owned by customers or the information necessary for sub-accounting; (vi)
forwarding shareholder communications; (vii) assisting in processing share
purchase, exchange and redemption requests from customers; (viii) assisting
customers in changing dividend options, account designations and addresses; and
(ix) other similar services requested by the Funds. All fees paid under these
agreements are borne exclusively by the Funds' Y Shares.
The Funds believe that there is a reasonable likelihood that their
arrangements with Shareholder Organizations will benefit each Fund and the
holders of Retail A, Retail B and Y Shares as a way of allowing Shareholder
Organizations to participate with the Funds in the provision of support and
distribution services to customers of the Shareholder Organization who own
Retail A, Retail B or Y Shares. Any material amendment to the arrangements with
Shareholder Organizations under other agreements must be approved by a majority
of the Board of Directors (including a majority of the Disinterested Directors),
and any amendment to increase materially the costs under the Distribution and
Service Plan with respect to a Fund must be approved by the holders of a
majority of the outstanding Retail A or Retail B Shares of the Fund involved.
So long as the Plans are in effect, the selection and nomination of the members
of the Board of Directors who are not "interested persons" (as defined in the
1940 Act) of the Funds will be committed to the discretion of such Disinterested
Directors.
Under the terms of their agreement with Firstar, Shareholder Organizations
are required to provide a schedule of any fees that they may charge to their
customers relating to the investment of their assets in shares covered by the
agreements. In addition, investors should contact their Shareholder
Organizations with respect to the availability of shareholder services and the
particular Shareholder Organization's procedures for purchasing and redeeming
shares. It is the responsibility of Shareholder Organizations to transmit
purchase and redemption orders and record those orders in customers' accounts on
a timely basis in accordance with their agreements with customers. At the
request of a Shareholder Organization, the transfer agent's charge of $12.00 for
each payment made by wire of redemption proceeds may be billed directly to the
Shareholder Organization.
The Predecessor Mercantile Funds had adopted separate Distribution and
Service Plans with respect to Retail A and B Shares (known as Investor A and B
Shares, respectively, with respect to the Predecessor Mercantile Funds) pursuant
to the 1940 Act and Rule 12b-1 thereunder. The Predecessor Mercantile Funds
also had adopted separate Administrative Service Plans with respect to
Institutional and Y Shares (known as Trust and Institutional Shares,
respectively, with respect to the Predecessor Mercantile Funds).
For the fiscal year ended November 30, 1999, pursuant to the Distribution
and Services Plan for Retail A Shares, the Funds were charged the following
amounts:
Amounts Paid
Predecessor Mercantile Fund Total Charged to Affiliates of MVA
--------------------------- ------------- --------------------
Predecessor Mercantile
U.S. Government Securities Fund $14,696 $10,587
Predecessor Mercantile Government
& Corporate Bond Fund $12,711 $9,019
Predecessor Mercantile National
Municipal Bond Fund $5,256 $1,211
For the fiscal year ended November 30, 1999, pursuant to the Distribution
and Services Plan for Retail B Shares, the Predecessor Mercantile Funds were
charged the following amounts:
Amounts Paid
Predecessor Mercantile Fund Total Charged of MVA
--------------------------- ------------- --------------------
Predecessor Mercantile
U.S. Government Securities Fund $2,444 $1,788
Predecessor Mercantile Government
& Corporate Bond Fund $7,555 $5,337
Predecessor Mercantile National
Municipal Bond Fund $7,727 $5,615
For the fiscal year ended November 30, 1999, pursuant to the Administrative
Services Plan for the Y Shares, the Predecessor Mercantile Funds paid the
following amounts:
Amounts Paid
Predecessor Mercantile Fund Total Charged to Affiliates of MVA
--------------------------- ------------- --------------------
Predecessor Mercantile
U.S. Government Securities Fund $18,525 $18,149
Predecessor Mercantile Government
& Corporate Bond Fund $23,382 $20,697
For the fiscal year ended November 30, 1999, pursuant to the Administrative
Services Plan for Institutional Shares, no fees were charged to the Predecessor
Mercantile Funds.
CUSTODIAN, TRANSFER AGENT AND ACCOUNTING SERVICES AGENT
Firstar Bank, N.A. serves as custodian of all the Funds' assets. Under
the Custody Agreement, Firstar Bank, N.A. has agreed to (i) maintain a separate
account in the name of each Fund, (ii) make receipts and disbursements of money
on behalf of each Fund, (iii) collect and receive all income and other payments
and distributions on account of each Fund's portfolio investments, (iv) respond
to correspondence from shareholders, security brokers and others relating to its
duties and (v) make periodic reports to the Company concerning each Fund's
operations. Firstar Bank, N.A. may, at its own expense, open and maintain a
custody account or accounts on behalf of each Fund with other banks or trust
companies, provided that Firstar Bank, N.A. shall remain liable for the
performance of all of its duties under the Custody Agreement notwithstanding any
delegation. For its services as custodian, Firstar Bank, N.A. is entitled to
receive a fee, payable monthly, based on the annual rate of 0.02% of the
Company's first $2 billion of total assets, plus 0.015% of the Company's next $2
billion of total assets, and 0.01% of the Company's next $1 billion and 0.005%
on the balance. In addition, Firstar Bank, N.A., as custodian, is entitled to
certain charges for securities transactions and reimbursement for expenses.
Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC, 615 East Michigan Street, Milwaukee,
Wisconsin 53202, serves as transfer agent and dividend disbursing agent for each
Fund under a Shareholder Servicing Agent Agreement. As transfer and dividend
disbursing agent, Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC has agreed to (i) issue and
redeem shares of the Funds, (ii) make dividend and other distributions to
shareholders of the Funds, (iii) respond to correspondence by Fund shareholders
and others relating to its duties, (iv) maintain shareholder accounts, and (v)
make periodic reports to the Funds. For its transfer agency and dividend
disbursing services, Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC is entitled to receive a
fee at the rate of $15.00 per shareholder account with an annual minimum of
$24,000 per Fund, plus a 0.01% asset - based fee, and certain other transaction
charges and reimbursement for expenses.
In addition, all of the Funds have entered into a Fund Accounting
Servicing Agreement with Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC pursuant to which
Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC has agreed to maintain the financial accounts
and records of the Funds in compliance with the 1940 Act and to provide other
accounting services to the Funds. For its accounting services, Firstar Mutual
Fund Services, LLC is entitled to receive fees, payable monthly, at the
following annual rates of the market value of each Fund's assets; U.S.
Government Securities Fund, Aggregate Bond Fund and National Municipal Bond Fund
-- $58,500 on the first $100 million, 0.03% on the next $200 million, 0.015% on
the balance, plus out-of-pocket expenses, including pricing expenses.
Effective March 20, 2000, Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC, with principal
offices at 615 E. Michigan Street, Milwaukee, WI 53202, served as the
Predecessor Mercantile Funds' transfer agent and dividend disbursing agent.
Prior to March 20, 2000, BISYS Fund Services Ohio, Inc., ("BISYS") located at
3435 Stelzer Road, Columbus, Ohio 43219, served as the Fund's transfer agent and
dividend disbursing agent.
EXPENSES
Operating expenses of the Funds include taxes, interest, fees and expenses
of Directors and officers, SEC fees, state securities and qualification fees,
advisory fees, administrative fees, Shareholder Organization fees (Retail A,
Retail B and Y Shares only), charges of the custodian and transfer agent,
dividend disbursing agent and accounting services agent, certain insurance
premiums, auditing and legal expenses, costs of preparing and printing
prospectuses for regulatory purposes and for distribution to shareholders, costs
of shareholder reports and meetings, membership fees in the Investment Company
Institute, and any extraordinary expenses. The Funds also pay any brokerage
fees, commissions and other transactions charges (if any) incurred in connection
with the purchase or sale of portfolio securities.
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
PricewaterhouseCoopers, LLP, independent accountants, 100 East Wisconsin
Avenue, Suite 1500, Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202 serve as auditors for the
Company. The Annual Report to Shareholders with respect to the Predecessor
Mercantile Funds for the fiscal year ended November 30, 1999 was audited by KPMG
LLP and has been filed with the SEC. Financial Statements in the Annual Report
have been incorporated herein by reference in reliance upon such report given
upon the authority of KPMG LLP as experts in accounting and auditing. The
financial statements, notes thereto, and Report of Independent Accountants in
such Annual Report, as well as the unaudited financial statements included in
the Semi-Annual Report, are incorporated by reference into this Statement of
Additional Information.
COUNSEL
Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (of which Mr. McConnel, Secretary of the
Company, is a partner), One Logan Square, 18th and Cherry Streets, Philadelphia,
PA 19103-6996, serve as counsel to the Company and will pass upon the legality
of the shares offered by the Funds' Prospectus.
CODE OF ETHICS
The Company, Adviser and Distributor have adopted codes of ethics that
permit personnel subject to the codes to invest in securities, including
securities that may be purchased or held by the Fund.
PERFORMANCE CALCULATIONS
From time to time, the total return of the Retail A Shares, Retail B
Shares, Institutional Shares and Y Shares of each Fund and the yields of such
shares of the Funds may be quoted in advertisements, shareholder reports or
other communications to shareholders. Performance information is generally
available by calling the Firstar Funds Center at 1-800-677-FUND.
Yield Calculations
------------------
Yield is computed based on the net income of a series of shares of a Fund
during a 30-day (or one-month) period, which will be identified in connection
with the particular yield quotation. More specifically, the yield of a series
of shares is calculated by dividing the net investment income per share for that
series (as described below) earned during a 30-day (or one-month) period by the
net asset value per share for that series (including the maximum front end sales
charge of 4.00% for the Retail A Shares of the Funds) on the last day of the
period and annualizing the result on a semiannual basis by adding one to the
quotient, raising the sum to the power of six, subtracting one from the result
and then doubling the difference. Net investment income per share earned during
the period attributable to that series is based on the average daily number of
shares of the series outstanding during the period entitled to receive dividends
and includes dividends and interest earned during the period attributable to
that series minus expenses accrued for the period, attributable to that series
net of reimbursements.
This calculation can be expressed as follows:
a-b
Yield = 2 [(-------- + 1)6 - 1]
cd
Where: a = dividends and interest earned during the period.
b = expenses accrued for the period (net of
reimbursements).
c = the average daily number of shares outstanding
during the period that were entitled to receive
dividends.
d = Maximum offering price per share on the last day
of the period.
For the purpose of determining net investment income earned during the
period (variable "a" in the formula), dividend income on equity securities held
by a Fund is recognized by accruing 1/360 of the stated dividend rate of the
security each day that the security is in the portfolio. A Fund calculates
interest earned on any debt obligations held in its portfolio by computing the
yield to maturity of each obligation held by it based on the market value of the
obligation (including actual accrued interest) at the close of business on the
last business day of each month, or, with respect to obligations purchased
during the month, the purchase price (plus actual accrued interest) and dividing
the result by 360 and multiplying the quotient by the market value of the obli-
gation (including actual accrued interest) in order to determine the interest
income on the obligation for each day of the subsequent month that the
obligation is in the portfolio. For purposes of this calculation, it is assumed
that each month contains 30 days. The maturity of an obligation with a call
provision is the next call date on which the obligation reasonably may be
expected to be called or, if none, the maturity date. With respect to debt
obligations purchased at a discount or premium, the formula generally calls for
amortization of the discount or premium. The amortization schedule will be
adjusted monthly to reflect changes in the market values of such debt
obligations.
Interest earned on tax-exempt obligations of the National Municipal Bond
Fund that are issued without original issue discount and have a current market
discount is calculated by using the coupon rate of interest instead of the yield
to maturity. In the case of tax-exempt obligations that are issued with
original issue discount but which have discounts based on current market value
that exceed the then-remaining portion of the original issue discount (market
discount), the yield to maturity is the imputed rate based on the original issue
discount calculation. On the other hand, in the case of tax-exempt obligations
that are issued with original issue discount but which have the discounts based
on current market value that are less than the then-remaining portion of the
original issue discount (market premium), the yield to maturity is based on the
market value.
With respect to mortgage or other receivables-backed obligations which are
expected to be subject to monthly payments of principal and interest ("pay
downs"), (a) gain or loss attributable to actual monthly pay downs are accounted
for as an increase or decrease to interest income during the period; and (b) a
Fund may elect either (i) to amortize the discount and premium on the remaining
security, based on the cost of the security, to the weighted average maturity
date, if such information is available, or to the remaining term of the
security, if any, if the weighted average maturity date is not available, or
(ii) not to amortize discount or premium on the remaining security.
Undeclared earned income may be subtracted from the net asset value per
share (variable "d" in the formula). Undeclared earned income is the net
investment income which, at the end of the 30-day base period, has not been
declared as a dividend, but is reasonably expected to be and is declared as a
dividend shortly thereafter.
In addition, the National Municipal Bond Fund may advertise a "tax-
equivalent yield" which shows the level of taxable yield needed to produce an
after-tax equivalent to the tax-free yield of the Fund. This is done by
increasing the yield of the series of shares (calculated as stated above) by the
amount necessary to reflect the payment of federal income taxes at a stated
rate. This is computed by: (a) dividing the portion of the Fund's yield for a
particular series (as calculated above) that is exempt from federal income tax
by one minus a stated federal income tax rate; and (b) adding the figure
resulting from (a) above to that portion, if any, of the Fund's yield that is
not exempt from federal income tax. The "tax-equivalent" yield will always be
higher than the yield of the Fund.
The following are the standard yields for the U.S. Government Securities
and Aggregate Bond Funds' shares for the 30-day period ended May 31, 2000. Each
of these yields is based on the yields of corresponding classes of the
Predecessor Mercantile U.S. Government Securities Fund and Predecessor
Mercantile Government and Corporate Bond Fund, respectively.
30-DAY YIELD
------------
U.S. Government Securities Fund
Y Shares 5.81%
Institutional Shares 6.09%
Retail A Shares - No Load 5.79%
Retail A Shares - Load Adjusted 5.56%
Retail B Shares 5.07%
Aggregate Bond Fund
Y Shares 6.29%
Institutional Shares 6.59%
Retail A Shares - No Load 6.29%
Retail A Shares - Load Adjusted 6.03%
Retail B Shares 5.55%
The following are the tax-equivalent yields for the National Municipal Bond
Fund's shares for the 30-day period ended May 31, 2000 (assuming a rate of
39.6%). The yields are based on yields of corresponding classes of the
Predecessor National Municipal Bond Fund.
30-DAY TAX-
FUND EQUIVALENT YIELD
---- ----------------
National Municipal Bond Fund
Institutional Shares 8.16%
Retail A Shares - No Load 7.80%
Retail A Shares - Load Adjusted 7.48%
Retail B Shares 6.44%
Total Return Calculations.
-------------------------
Each Fund computes "average annual total return" separately for its Retail
A, Retail B, Institutional and Y Shares. Average annual total return reflects
the average annual percentage change in value of an investment in shares of a
series over the measuring period. This is computed by determining the average
annual compounded rates of return during specified periods that equate the
initial amount invested in a particular series to the ending redeemable value of
such investment in the series. This is done by dividing the ending redeemable
value of a hypothetical $1,000 initial payment by $1,000 and raising the
quotient to a power equal to one divided by the number of years (or fractional
portion thereof) covered by the computation and subtracting one from the result.
This calculation can be expressed as follows:
P(1 + T)n = ERV
Where: T = average annual total return.
ERV = ending redeemable value at the end of the period
covered by the computation of a hypothetical
$1,000 payment made at the beginning of the
period.
P = hypothetical initial payment of $1,000.
n = period covered by the computation, expressed in
terms of years.
The Funds may compute aggregate total return, which reflects the total
percentage change in value over the measuring period. The Funds compute their
aggregate total returns separately for the Retail A, Retail B, Y and
Institutional Series, by determining the aggregate rates of return during
specified periods that likewise equate the initial amount invested in a
particular series to the ending redeemable value of such investment in the
series. The formula for calculating aggregate total return is as follows:
Aggregate Total Return = [(ERV/P) - l]
The calculations of average annual total return and aggregate total return
assume the reinvestment of all dividends and capital gain distributions on the
reinvestment dates during the period. The ending redeemable value (variable
"ERV" in each formula) is determined by assuming complete redemption of the
hypothetical investment and the deduction of all nonrecurring charges at the end
of the period covered by the computations. In addition, the Funds' average
annual total return and aggregate total return reflect the deduction of the
4.00% maximum front end sales charge for the Funds in connection with the
purchase of Retail A Shares and the maximum sales load charged in connection
with redemptions of Retail B Shares (5.00%). The Funds may also advertise total
return data without reflecting sales charges in accordance with the rules of the
Securities and Exchange Commission. Quotations that do not reflect the sales
charge will, of course, be higher than quotations that do reflect the sales
charge.
The total return and yield of a Fund's Shares may be compared in
publications to those of other mutual funds with similar investment objectives
and to stock, bond and other relevant indices, to rankings, or other information
prepared by independent services or other financial or industry publications
that monitor the performance of mutual funds or to investments for which
reliable performance data is available. For example, the total return and
yield, as appropriate, of a Fund's shares may be compared to data prepared by
Lipper Analytical Services, Inc. The total return of a Fund's shares may be
compared to the Lehman Brothers Government/Corporate Bond Index, Lipper U.S.
Government Fund Average, Lehman Brothers 1-3 Year Government/Corporate Bond
Index; the Merrill Lynch 1-2.99 U.S. Treasury Bond Index; the Lehman Brothers
Intermediate Government/Corporate Bond Index; the Lehman Brothers 5-Year General
Obligation Bond Index; the Lehman Brothers Government/Corporate Bond Index; and
the Consumer Price Index. Total return and yield data as reported in national
financial publications, such as Money Magazine, Forbes, Barron's, Morningstar
Mutual Funds, Mutual Funds Magazine, Kiplinger's Personal Finance Magazine, The
Wall Street Journal and The New York Times, or in publications of a local or
regional nature, may also be used in comparing the performance of the Funds.
Performance quotations represent past performance, and should not be
considered as representative of future results. Performance assumes the
reinvestment of all net investment income and capital gains and reflects fee
waivers. In the absence of fee waivers, performance would be reduced. The
investment return and principal value of an investment in a Fund's series of
shares will fluctuate so that an investor's shares, when redeemed, may be worth
more or less than their original cost. Since performance will fluctuate,
performance data for a Fund cannot necessarily be used to compare an investment
in a Fund's series of shares with bank deposits, savings accounts and similar
investment alternatives which often provide an agreed or guaranteed fixed yield
for a stated period of time. Investors should remember that performance is
generally a function of the kind and quality of the investments held in a
portfolio, portfolio maturity, operating expenses and market conditions. Any
fees charged by Institutions directly to their customer accounts in connection
with investments in a Fund will not be included in the Fund's calculations of
yield and total return and will reduce the yield and total return received by
the accounts.
In addition, a Fund's average annual total return quotations reflect the
deduction of the maximum front-end sales charge in connection with the purchase
of Retail A Shares and the deduction of any applicable contingent deferred sales
charge with respect to Retail B Shares.
The following are the average annual total returns for shares of the U.S.
Government Securities Fund, Aggregate Bond Fund and National Municipal Bond Fund
from the date of each Fund's inception through May 31, 2000. These returns are
based on the returns of the Predecessor Mercantile U.S. Government Securities
Fund, Predecessor Mercantile Government & Corporate Bond Fund and Predecessor
Mercantile National Municipal Bond Fund, respectively. The Fund's Retail A,
Retail B, Y and Institutional Shares are the corresponding classes for the
Predecessor Mercantile Fund's Investor A, Investor B, Institutional and Trust
Shares.
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN
---------------------------
FOR THE
FOR THE FOR THE 5 10 SINCE
PERIOD YEARS YEARS COMMENCEMENT
ENDED ENDED ENDED OF
FUND 5/31/00 5/31/00 5/31/00 OPERATIONS
---- -------- ---------- -------- ------------
U.S. Government
Securities Fund 2.24% 4.81% -- 6.20%
Institutional Shares<F1> 1.82% 4.47% -- 5.21%
Y Shares<F2> -2.14% 3.64% 6.09% 6.40%
Retail A Shares<F3> -3.51% 3.45% -- 3.95%
Retail B Shares<F4>
Aggregate Bond Fund
Institutional Shares<F5> 1.60% 5.25% -- 6.63%
Y Shares<F6> 1.31% 4.94% -- 4.83%
Retail A Shares<F7> -2.66% 4.06% 6.24% 6.40%
Retail B Shares<F8> -4.09% 3.93% -- 5.11%
National Municipal
Bond Fund -2.77% -- -- 3.77%
Institutional Shares<F9> -6.55% -- -- 2.43%
Retail A Shares<F9> -8.37% -- -- 2.04%
Retail B Shares<F9>
<F1> Commenced operations on February 1, 1991.
<F2> Commenced operations on June 7, 1994.
<F3> Commenced operations on June 2, 1988.
<F4> Commenced operations on March 7, 1995.
<F5> Commenced operations on February 1, 1991.
<F6> Commenced operations on January 3, 1994.
<F7> Commenced operations on June 15, 1988.
<F8> Date of initial public investment on March 7, 1995.
<F9> Commenced operations on November 18, 1996.
MISCELLANEOUS
As used in this SAI and in the Funds' Prospectus, a majority of the
outstanding shares of a Fund or portfolio means, with respect to the approval of
an investment advisory agreement or a charge in a fundamental investment policy,
the lesser of (1) 67% of the shares of the particular Fund or portfolio
represented at a meeting at which the holders of more than 50% of the
outstanding shares of such Fund or portfolio are present in person or by proxy,
or (2) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of such Fund or portfolio.
As of July 31, 2000, the Adviser and its affiliates held of record
substantially all of the outstanding shares of each of the Company's investment
portfolios as agent, custodian, trustee or investment adviser on behalf of their
customers. At such date, Firstar Bank, N.A., 425 Walnut Street, Cincinnati,
Ohio 45202, and its affiliated banks held as beneficial owner five percent or
more of the outstanding shares of the following investment portfolios of the
Company because they possessed sole voting or investment power with respect to
such shares:
Fund Percentage Owned
---- ----------------
Money Market 12%
Institutional Money Market 70%
Tax-Exempt Money Market 66%
U.S. Treasury Money Market 49%
U.S. Government Money Market 83%
Growth and Income 65%
Short-Term Bond Market 87%
Intermediate Bond Market 63%
Bond IMMDEXTM 65%
Tax-Exempt Intermediate Bond 64%
Balanced Income 83%
Balanced Growth 72%
Growth and Income 65%
Equity Index 74%
Growth 80%
Special Growth 74%
MidCap Index 60%
Emerging Growth 87%
MicroCap 75%
Core International Equity 99%
International Equity 85%
At such date, no other person was known by the Company to hold of record or
beneficially 5 % or more of the outstanding shares of any investment portfolios
of the Company.
<PAGE>
APPENDIX A
COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
------------------------
A Standard & Poor's commercial paper rating is a current opinion of the
creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to financial obligations having an
original maturity of no more than 365 days. The following summarizes the rating
categories used by Standard and Poor's for commercial paper:
"A-1" - Obligations are rated in the highest category indicating that the
obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is strong.
Within this category, certain obligations are designated with a plus sign (+).
This indicates that the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on
these obligations is extremely strong.
"A-2" - Obligations are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of
changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher
rating categories. However, the obligor's capacity to meet its financial
commitment on the obligation is satisfactory.
"A-3" - Obligations exhibit adequate protection parameters. However,
adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to
a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the
obligation.
"B" - Obligations are regarded as having significant speculative
characteristics. The obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial
commitment on the obligation; however, it faces major ongoing uncertainties
which could lead to the obligor's inadequate capacity to meet its financial
commitment on the obligation.
"C" - Obligations are currently vulnerable to nonpayment and are dependent
upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for the obligor to
meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
"D" - Obligations are in payment default. The "D" rating category is used
when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due even if the
applicable grace period has not expired, unless Standard & Poor's believes that
such payments will be made during such grace period. The "D" rating will be
used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of a similar action
if payments on an obligation are jeopardized.
LOCAL CURRENCY AND FOREIGN CURRENCY RISKS
Country risk considerations are a standard part of Standard & Poor's analysis
for credit ratings on any issuer or issue. Currency of repayment is a key
factor in this analysis. An obligor's capacity to repay foreign obligations may
be lower than its capacity to repay obligations in its local currency due to the
sovereign government's own relatively lower capacity to repay external versus
domestic debt. These sovereign risk considerations are incorporated in the debt
ratings assigned to specific issues. Foreign currency issuer ratings are also
distinguished from local currency issuer ratings to identify those instances
where sovereign risks make them different for the same issuer.
Moody's commercial paper ratings are opinions of the ability of issuers to
repay punctually senior debt obligations not having an original maturity in
excess of one year, unless explicitly noted. The following summarizes the
rating categories used by Moody's for commercial paper:
"Prime-1" - Issuers (or supporting institutions) have a superior ability
for repayment of senior short-term debt obligations. Prime-1 repayment ability
will often be evidenced by many of the following characteristics: leading
market positions in well-established industries; high rates of return on funds
employed; conservative capitalization structure with moderate reliance on debt
A-1
and ample asset protection; broad margins in earnings coverage of fixed
financial charges and high internal cash generation; and well-established access
to a range of financial markets and assured sources of alternate liquidity.
"Prime-2" - Issuers (or supporting institutions) have a strong ability for
repayment of senior short-term debt obligations. This will normally be
evidenced by many of the characteristics cited above but to a lesser degree.
Earnings trends and coverage ratios, while sound, may be more subject to
variation. Capitalization characteristics, while still appropriate, may be more
affected by external conditions. Ample alternate liquidity is maintained.
"Prime-3" - Issuers (or supporting institutions) have an acceptable ability
for repayment of senior short-term debt obligations. The effect of industry
characteristics and market compositions may be more pronounced. Variability in
earnings and profitability may result in changes in the level of debt protection
measurements and may require relatively high financial leverage. Adequate
alternate liquidity is maintained.
"Not Prime" - Issuers do not fall within any of the Prime rating
categories.
Fitch short-term ratings apply to debt obligations that have time horizons
of less than 12 months for most obligations, or up to three years for U.S.
public finance securities. The following summarizes the rating categories used
by Fitch for short-term obligations:
"F1" - Securities possess the highest credit quality. This designation
indicates the best capacity for timely payment of financial commitments and may
have an added "+"to denote any exceptionally strong credit feature.
"F2" - Securities possess good credit quality. This designation indicates
a satisfactory capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, but the
margin of safety is not as great as in the case of the higher ratings.
"F3" - Securities possess fair credit quality. This designation indicates
that the capacity for timely payment of financial commitments is adequate;
however, near-term adverse changes could result in a reduction to non-investment
grade.
"B" - Securities possess speculative credit quality. This designation
indicates minimal capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, plus
vulnerability to near-term adverse changes in financial and economic conditions.
"C" - Securities possess high default risk. This designation indicates a
capacity for meeting financial commitments which is highly uncertain and solely
reliant upon a sustained, favorable business and economic environment.
"D" - Securities are in actual or imminent payment default.
Thomson Financial BankWatch short-term ratings assess the likelihood of an
untimely payment of principal and interest of debt instruments with original
maturities of one year or less. The following summarizes the ratings used by
Thomson Financial BankWatch:
"TBW-1" - This designation represents Thomson Financial BankWatch's highest
category and indicates a very high likelihood that principal and interest will
be paid on a timely basis.
"TBW-2" - This designation represents Thomson Financial BankWatch's second-
highest category and indicates that while the degree of safety regarding timely
repayment of principal and interest is strong, the relative degree of safety is
not as high as for issues rated "TBW-1."
"TBW-3" - This designation represents Thomson Financial BankWatch's lowest
investment-grade category and indicates that while the obligation is more
susceptible to adverse developments (both internal and external) than those with
higher ratings, the capacity to service principal and interest in a timely
fashion is considered adequate.
"TBW-4" - This designation represents Thomson Financial BankWatch's lowest
rating category and indicates that the obligation is regarded as non-investment
grade and therefore speculative.
CORPORATE AND MUNICIPAL LONG-TERM DEBT RATINGS
----------------------------------------------
The following summarizes the ratings used by Standard & Poor's for
corporate and municipal debt:
"AAA" - An obligation rated "AAA" has the highest rating assigned by
Standard & Poor's. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on
the obligation is extremely strong.
"AA" - An obligation rated "AA" differs from the highest rated obligations
only in small degree. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment
on the obligation is very strong.
"A" - An obligation rated "A" is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse
effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in
higher-rated categories. However, the obligor's capacity to meet its financial
commitment on the obligation is still strong.
"BBB" - An obligation rated "BBB" exhibits adequate protection parameters.
However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely
to lead to a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial commitment
on the obligation.
Obligations rated "BB," "B," "CCC," "CC" and "C" are regarded as having
significant speculative characteristics. "BB" indicates the least degree of
speculation and "C" the highest. While such obligations will likely have some
quality and protective characteristics, these may be outweighed by large
uncertainties or major exposures to adverse conditions.
"BB" - An obligation rated "BB" is less vulnerable to nonpayment than other
speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure
to adverse business, financial or economic conditions which could lead to the
obligor's inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitment on the
obligation.
"B" - An obligation rated "B" is more vulnerable to nonpayment than
obligations rated "BB", but the obligor currently has the capacity to meet its
financial commitment on the obligation. Adverse business, financial or economic
conditions will likely impair the obligor's capacity or willingness to meet its
financial commitment on the obligation.
"CCC" - An obligation rated "CCC" is currently vulnerable to nonpayment,
and is dependent upon favorable business, financial and economic conditions for
the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. In the event of
adverse business, financial, or economic conditions, the obligor is not likely
to have the capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
"CC" - An obligation rated "CC" is currently highly vulnerable to
nonpayment.
"C" - The "C" rating may be used to cover a situation where a bankruptcy
petition has been filed or similar action taken, but payments on this obligation
are being continued.
"D" - An obligation rated "D" is in payment default. The "D" rating
category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due
even if the applicable grace period has not expired, unless Standard & Poor's
believes that such payments will be made during such grace period. The "D"
rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking
of a similar action if payments on an obligation are jeopardized.
- PLUS (+) OR MINUS (-) - The ratings from "AA" through "CCC" may be
modified by the addition of a plus or minus sign to show relative standing
within the major rating categories.
- "r" - The 'r' highlights obligations that Standard & Poor's believes
have significant noncredit risks. Examples of such obligations are securities
with principal or interest return indexed to equities, commodities, or
currencies; certain swaps and options; and interest-only and principal-only
mortgage securities. The absence of an 'r' symbol should not be taken as an
indication that an obligation will exhibit no volatility or variability in total
return.
- N.R. Indicates that no rating has been requested, that there is
insufficient information on which to base a rating, or that Standard & Poor's
does not rate a particular obligation as a matter of policy.
The following summarizes the ratings used by Moody's for corporate and
municipal long-term debt:
"Aaa" - Bonds are judged to be of the best quality. They carry the
smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as "gilt
edged." Interest payments are protected by a large or 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 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 risk appear somewhat larger than the "Aaa" securities.
"A" - Bonds 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 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 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 are 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 are of poor standing. Such issues may be in default or there
may be present elements of danger with respect to principal or interest.
"Ca" - Bonds represent obligations which are speculative in a high degree.
Such issues are often in default or have other marked shortcomings.
"C" - Bonds are the lowest rated class of bonds, and issues so rated can be
regarded as having extremely poor prospects of ever attaining any real
investment standing.
Con. (-) - Bonds for which the security depends upon the completion of some
act or the fulfillment of some condition are rated conditionally. These are
bonds secured by (a) earnings of projects under construction, (b) earnings of
projects unseasoned in operating experience, (c) rentals which begin when
facilities are completed, or (d) payments to which some other limiting condition
attaches. Parenthetical rating denotes probable credit stature upon completion
of construction or elimination of basis of condition.
Note: Moody's applies numerical modifiers 1, 2, and 3 in each generic rating
classification from "Aa" through "Caa". The modifier 1 indicates that the
obligation ranks in the higher end of its generic rating category; the modifier
2 indicates a mid-range ranking; and the modifier 3 indicates a ranking in the
lower end of its generic rating category.
The following summarizes the ratings used by Fitch for corporate and municipal
bonds:
"AAA" - Bonds considered to be investment grade and of the highest credit
quality. These ratings denote the lowest expectation of credit risk and are
assigned only in case of exceptionally strong capacity for timely payment of
financial commitments. This capacity is highly unlikely to be adversely
affected by foreseeable events.
"AA" - Bonds considered to be investment grade and of very high credit
quality. These ratings denote a very low expectation of credit risk and
indicate very strong capacity for timely payment of financial commitments. This
capacity is not significantly vulnerable to foreseeable events.
"A" - Bonds considered to be investment grade and of high credit quality.
These ratings denote a low expectation of credit risk and indicate strong
capacity for timely payment of financial commitments. This capacity may,
nevertheless, be more vulnerable to changes in circumstances or in economic
conditions than is the case for higher ratings.
"BBB" - Bonds considered to be investment grade and of good credit quality.
These ratings denote that there is currently a low expectation of credit risk.
The capacity for timely payment of financial commitments is considered adequate,
but adverse changes in circumstances and in economic conditions are more likely
to impair this capacity. This is the lowest investment grade category.
"BB" - Bonds considered to be speculative. These ratings indicate that
there is a possibility of credit risk developing, particularly as the result of
adverse economic change over time; however, business or financial alternatives
may be available to allow financial commitments to be met. Securities rated in
this category are not investment grade.
"B" - Bonds are considered highly speculative. These ratings indicate that
significant credit risk is present, but a limited margin of safety remains.
Financial commitments are currently being met; however, capacity for continued
payment is contingent upon a sustained, favorable business and economic
environment.
"CCC", "CC" and "C" - Bonds have high default risk. Default is a real
possibility, and capacity for meeting financial commitments is solely reliant
upon sustained, favorable business or economic developments. "CC" ratings
indicate that default of some kind appears probable, and "C" ratings signal
imminent default.
"DDD," "DD" and "D" - Bonds are in default. The ratings of obligations in
this category are based on their prospects for achieving partial or full
recovery in a reorganization or liquidation of the obligor. While expected
recovery values are highly speculative and cannot be estimated with any
precision, the following serve as general guidelines. "DDD" obligations have the
highest potential for recovery, around 90%-100% of outstanding amounts and
accrued interest. "DD" indicates potential recoveries in the range of 50%-90%,
and "D" the lowest recovery potential, i.e., below 50%.
Entities rated in this category have defaulted on some or all of their
obligations. Entities rated "DDD" have the highest prospect for resumption of
performance or continued operation with or without a formal reorganization
process. Entities rated "DD" and "D" are generally undergoing a formal
reorganization or liquidation process; those rated "DD" are likely to satisfy a
higher portion of their outstanding obligations, while entities rated "D" have a
poor prospect for repaying all obligations.
- To provide more detailed indications of credit quality, the Fitch
ratings from and including "AA" to "CCC" may be modified by the addition of a
plus (+) or minus (-) sign to denote relative standing within these major rating
categories.
- 'NR' indicates the Fitch does not rate the issuer or issue in question.
- 'Withdrawn': A rating is withdrawn when Fitch deems the amount of
information available to be inadequate for rating purposes, or when an
obligation matures, is called, or refinanced.
- RatingAlert: Ratings are placed on RatingAlert to notify investors that
there is a reasonable probability of a rating change and the likely direction of
such change. These are designated as "Positive", indicating a potential
upgrade, "Negative", for a potential downgrade, or "Evolving", if ratings may be
raised, lowered or maintained. RatingAlert is typically resolved over a
relatively short period.
Thomson Financial BankWatch assesses the likelihood of an untimely
repayment of principal or interest over the term to maturity of long term debt
and preferred stock which are issued by United States commercial banks, thrifts
and non-bank banks; non-United States banks; and broker-dealers. The following
summarizes the rating categories used by Thomson BankWatch for long-term debt
ratings:
"AAA" - This designation indicates that the ability to repay principal and
interest on a timely basis is extremely high.
"AA" - This designation indicates a very strong ability to repay principal
and interest on a timely basis, with limited incremental risk compared to issues
rated in the highest category.
"A" - This designation indicates that the ability to repay principal and
interest is strong. Issues rated "A" could be more vulnerable to adverse
developments (both internal and external) than obligations with higher ratings.
"BBB" - This designation represents the lowest investment-grade category
and indicates an acceptable capacity to repay principal and interest. Issues
rated "BBB" are more vulnerable to adverse developments (both internal and
external) than obligations with higher ratings.
"BB," - A rating of BB suggests that the likelihood of default is
considerably less than for lower-rated issues, although there are significant
uncertainties that could affect the ability to adequately service debt
obligations.
"B" - Issues rated B show a higher degree of uncertainty and therefore
greater likelihood of default than higher-rated issues. Adverse developments
could negatively affect the payment of interest and principal on a timely basis.
"CCC" - Issues rated CCC clearly have a high likelihood of default, with
little capacity to address further adverse changes in financial circumstances.
"CC" - This rating is applied to issues that are subordinate to other
obligations rated CCC and are afforded less protection in the event of
bankruptcy or reorganization.
"D" - This designation indicates that the long-term debt is in default.
PLUS (+) OR MINUS (-) - The ratings from "AAA" through "CC" may include a
plus or minus sign designation which indicates where within the respective
category the issue is placed.
MUNICIPAL NOTE RATINGS
----------------------
A Standard and Poor's note rating reflects the liquidity factors and market
access risks unique to notes due in three years or less. The following
summarizes the ratings used by Standard & Poor's for municipal notes:
"SP-1" - The issuers of these municipal notes exhibit a strong capacity to
pay principal and interest. Those issues determined to possess a very strong
capacity to pay debt service are given a plus (+) designation.
"SP-2" - The issuers of these municipal notes exhibit satisfactory capacity
to pay principal and interest, with some vulnerability to adverse financial and
economic changes over the term of the notes.
"SP-3" - The issuers of these municipal notes exhibit speculative capacity
to pay principal and interest.
Moody's ratings for state and municipal notes and other short-term loans
are designated Moody's Investment Grade ("MIG") and variable rate demand
obligations are designated Variable Moody's Investment Grade ("VMIG"). Such
ratings recognize the differences between short-term credit risk and long-term
risk. The following summarizes the ratings by Moody's Investors Service, Inc.
for short-term notes:
"MIG-1"/"VMIG-1" - This designation denotes best quality. There is present
strong protection by established cash flows, superior liquidity support or
demonstrated broad-based access to the market for refinancing.
"MIG-2"/"VMIG-2" - This designation denotes high quality. Margins of
protection are ample although not so large as in the preceding group.
"MIG-3"/"VMIG-3" - This designation denotes favorable quality, with all
security elements accounted for but lacking the undeniable strength of the
preceding grades. Liquidity and cash flow protection may be narrow and market
access for refinancing is likely to be less well established.
"MIG-4"/"VMIG-4" - This designation denotes adequate quality. Protection
commonly regarded as required of an investment security is present and although
not distinctly or predominantly speculative, there is specific risk.
"SG" - This designation denotes speculative quality. Debt instruments in
this category lack margins of protection.
Fitch uses the short-term ratings described under Commercial Paper Ratings
for municipal notes.
<PAGE>
APPENDIX B
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONCERNING FUTURES AND RELATED
OPTIONS
As stated in the Prospectus, certain of the Funds may enter into futures
contracts and options for hedging or other purposes. Such transactions are
described in this Appendix.
I. Interest Rate Futures Contracts
-------------------------------
Use of Interest Rate Futures Contracts. Bond prices are established in
--------------------------------------
both the cash market and the futures market. In the cash market, bonds are
purchased and sold with payment for the full purchase price of the bond being
made in cash, generally within five business days after the trade. In the
futures market, only a contract is made to purchase or sell a bond in the future
for a set price on a certain date. Historically, the prices for bonds
established in the futures markets have tended to move generally in the
aggregate in concert with the cash market prices and have maintained fairly
predictable relationships. Accordingly, a Fund may use interest rate futures as
a defense, or hedge, against anticipated interest rate changes and not for
speculation. As described below, this would include the use of futures contract
sales to protect against expected increases in interest rates and futures
contract purchases to offset the impact of interest rate declines.
A Fund presently could accomplish a similar result to that which they hope
to achieve through the use of futures contracts by selling bonds with long
maturities and investing in bonds with short maturities when interest rates are
expected to increase, or conversely, selling short-term bonds and investing in
long-term bonds when interest rates are expected to decline. However, because
of the liquidity that is often available in the futures market the protection is
more likely to be achieved, perhaps at a lower cost and without changing the
rate of interest being earned by a Fund, through using futures contracts.
Description of Interest Rate Futures Contracts. An interest rate futures
----------------------------------------------
contract sale would create an obligation by a Fund as seller, to deliver the
specific type of financial instrument called for in the contract at a specific
future time for a specified price. A futures contract purchase would create an
obligation by a Fund, as purchaser, to take delivery of the specific type of
financial instrument at a specific future time at a specific price. The
specific securities delivered or taken, respectively, at settlement date, would
not be determined until at or near that date. The determination would be in
accordance with the rules of the exchange on which the futures contract sale or
purchase was made.
Although interest rate futures contracts by their terms call for actual
delivery or acceptance of securities, in most cases the contracts are closed out
before the settlement date without the making or taking of delivery of
securities. Closing out a futures contract sale is effected by a Fund's
entering into a futures contract purchase for the same aggregate amount of the
specific type of financial instrument and the same delivery date. If the price
in the sale exceeds the price in the offsetting purchase, the Fund is paid the
difference and thus realizes a gain. If the offsetting purchase price exceeds
the sale price, the Fund pays the difference and realizes a loss. Similarly,
the closing out of a futures contract purchase is effected by a Fund's entering
into a futures contract sale. If the offsetting sale price exceeds the purchase
price, the Fund realizes a gain, and if the purchase price exceeds the
B-1
offsetting sale price, the Fund realizes a loss.
Interest rate futures contracts are traded in an auction environment on the
floors of several exchanges - principally, the Chicago Board of Trade, the
Chicago Mercantile Exchange and the New York Futures Exchange. The Funds would
deal only in standardized contracts on recognized exchanges. Each exchange
guarantees performance under contract provisions through a clearing corporation,
a nonprofit organization managed by the exchange membership.
A public market now exists in futures contracts covering various financial
instruments including long-term U.S. Treasury Bonds and Notes; Government
National Mortgage Association (GNMA) modified pass-through mortgage-backed
securities; three-month U.S. Treasury Bills; and ninety-day commercial paper. A
Fund may trade in any futures contract for which there exists a public market,
including, without limitation, the foregoing instruments.
Examples of Futures Contract Sale. A Fund would engage in an interest rate
---------------------------------
futures contract sale to maintain the income advantage from continued holding of
a long-term bond while endeavoring to avoid part or all of the loss in market
value that would otherwise accompany a decline in long-term securities prices.
Assume that the market value of a certain security in a Fund's portfolio tends
to move in concert with the futures market prices of long-term U.S. Treasury
bonds ("Treasury bonds"). The Adviser wishes to fix the current market value of
this portfolio security until some point in the future. Assume the portfolio
security has a market value of 100, and the Adviser believes that, because of an
anticipated rise in interest rates, the value will decline to 95. The Fund
might enter into futures contract sales of Treasury bonds for an equivalent of
98. If the market value of the portfolio security does indeed decline from 100
to 95, the equivalent futures market price for the Treasury bonds might also
decline from 98 to 93.
In that case, the five-point loss in the market value of the portfolio
security would be offset by the five-point gain realized by closing out the
futures contract sale. Of course, the futures market price of Treasury bonds
might well decline to more than 93 or to less than 93 because of the imperfect
correlation between cash and futures prices mentioned below.
The Adviser could be wrong in its forecast of interest rates and the
equivalent futures market price could rise above 98. In this case, the market
value of the portfolio securities, including the portfolio security being
protected, would increase. The benefit of this increase would be reduced by the
loss realized on closing out the futures contract sale.
If interest rate levels did not change, the Fund in the above example might
incur a loss of 2 points (which might be reduced by an offsetting transaction
prior to the settlement date). In each transaction, transaction expenses would
also be incurred.
Examples of Futures Contract Purchase. A Fund might engage in an interest
-------------------------------------
rate futures contract purchase when it is not fully invested in long-term bonds
but wishes to defer for a time the purchase of long-term bonds in light of the
availability of advantageous interim investments, e.g., shorter-term securities
whose yields are greater than those available on long-term bonds. A Fund's
basic motivation would be to maintain for a time the income advantage from
investment in the short-term securities; the Fund would be endeavoring at the
same time to eliminate the effect of all or part of an expected increase in
market price of the long-term bonds that the fund may purchase.
For example, assume that the market price of a long-term bond that the Fund
may purchase, currently yielding 10%, tends to move in concert with futures
market prices of Treasury bonds. The Adviser wishes to fix the current market
price (and thus 10% yield) of the long-term bond until the time (four months
away in this example) when it may purchase the bond. Assume the long-term bond
has a market price of 100, and the Adviser believes that, because of an
anticipated fall in interest rates, the price will have risen to 105 (and the
yield will have dropped to about 9 1/2%) in four months. The Fund might enter
into futures contracts purchases of Treasury bonds for an equivalent price of
98. At the same time, the Fund could, for example, assign a pool of investments
in short-term securities that are either maturing in four months or earmarked
for sale in four months, for purchase of the long-term bond at an assumed market
price of 100. Assume these short-term securities are yielding 15%. If the
market price of the long-term bond does indeed rise from 100 to 105, the
equivalent futures market price for Treasury bonds might also rise from 98 to
103. In that case, the 5-point increase in the price that the Fund pays for the
long-term bond would be offset by the 5-point gain realized by closing out the
futures contract purchase.
The Adviser could be wrong in its forecast of interest rates; long-term
interest rates might rise to above 10%; and the equivalent futures market price
could fall below 98. If short-term rates at the same time fall to 10% or below,
it is possible that the Fund would continue with its purchase program for long-
term bonds. The market price of available long-term bonds would have decreased.
The benefit of this price decrease, and thus yield increase, will be reduced by
the loss realized on closing out the futures contract purchase.
If, however, short-term rates remained above available long-term rates, it
is possible that the Fund would discontinue its purchase program for long-term
bonds. The yield on short-term securities in the portfolio, including those
originally in the pool assigned to the particular long-term bond, would remain
higher than yields on long-term bonds. The benefit of this continued
incremental income will be reduced by the loss realized on closing out the
futures contract purchase.
In each transaction, expenses would also be incurred.
II. Index Futures Contracts.
-----------------------
A stock or bond index assigns relative values to the stocks or bonds
included in the index and the index fluctuates with changes in the market values
of the stocks or bonds included. Some stock index futures contracts are based
on broad market indexes, such as the Standard & Poor's 500 or the New York Stock
Exchange Composite Index. In contrast, certain exchanges offer futures
contracts on narrower market indexes, such as the Standard & Poor's 100 or
indexes based on an industry or market segment, such as oil and gas stocks.
Futures contracts are traded on organized exchanges regulated by the Commodity
Futures Trading Commission. Transactions on such exchanges are cleared through
a clearing corporation, which guarantees the performance of the parties to each
contract.
A Fund may sell index futures contracts as set forth in the Prospectus. A
Fund may do so either to hedge the value of its portfolio as a whole, or to
protect against declines, occurring prior to sales of securities, in the value
of the securities to be sold. Conversely, a Fund may purchase index futures
contracts. In a substantial majority of these transactions, a Fund will purchase
such securities upon termination of the long futures position, but a long
futures position may be terminated without a corresponding purchase of
securities.
In addition, a Fund may utilize index futures contracts in anticipation of
changes in the composition of its portfolio holdings. For example, in the event
that a Fund expects to narrow the range of industry groups represented in its
holdings it may, prior to making purchases of the actual securities, establish a
long futures position based on a more restricted index, such as an index
comprised of securities of a particular industry group. A Fund may also sell
futures contracts in connection with this strategy, in order to protect against
the possibility that the value of the securities to be sold as part of the
restructuring of the portfolio will decline prior to the time of sale.
The following are examples of transactions in stock index futures (net of
commissions and premiums, if any).
ANTICIPATORY PURCHASE HEDGE: Buy the Future Hedge
Objective: Protect Against Increasing Price
Portfolio Futures
--------- -------
-Day Hedge is Placed-
Anticipate Buying $62,500 Buying 1 Index Futures at 125
Equity Portfolio Value of Futures=$62,500/Contract
-Day Hedge is Lifted-
Buy Equity Portfolio with Sell 1 Index Futures at 130
Actual Cost = $65,000 Value of Futures = $65,000/Contract
Increase in Purchase Price = $2,500 Gain on Futures = $2,500
HEDGING A STOCK PORTFOLIO: Sell the Future
Hedge Objective: Protect Against Declining
Value of the Portfolio
Factors:
Value of Stock Portfolio = $1,000,000
Value of Futures Contract = 125 x $500 = $62,500
Portfolio Beta Relative to the Index = 1.0
Portfolio Futures
--------- -------
-Day Hedge is Placed-
Anticipate Selling $1,000,000 Sell 16 Index Futures at 125
Equity Portfolio Value of Futures = $1,000,000
-Day Hedge is Lifted-
Equity Portfolio - Own Buy 16 Index Futures at 120
Stock with Value = $960,000 Value of Futures = $960,000
Loss in Portfolio Value = $40,000 Gain on Futures = $40,000
If, however, the market moved in the opposite direction, that is, market value
decreased and the Fund had entered into an anticipatory purchase hedge, or
market value increased and the Fund had hedged its stock portfolio, the results
of the Fund's transactions in stock index futures would be as set forth below.
Portfolio Futures
--------- -------
-Day Hedge is Placed-
Anticipate Buying $62,500 Buying 1 Index Futures at 125
Equity Portfolio Value of Futures=$62,500/Contract
Portfolio Futures
--------- --------
-Day Hedge is Lifted-
Buy Equity Portfolio with Sell 1 Index Futures at 120
Actual Cost - $60,000 Value of Futures = $60,000/Contract
Decrease in Purchase Price = $2,500 Loss on Futures = $2,500
HEDGING A STOCK PORTFOLIO: Sell the Future
Hedge Objective: Protect Against Declining
Value of the Portfolio
Factors:
Value of Stock Portfolio = $1,000,000
Value of Futures Contract = 125 x $500 = $62,500
Portfolio Beta Relative to the Index = 1.0
Portfolio Futures
--------- -------
-Day Hedge is Placed-
Anticipate Selling $1,000,000 Sell 16 Index Futures at 125
Equity Portfolio Value of Futures = $1,000,000
-Day Hedge is Lifted-
Equity Portfolio - Own Buy 16 Index Futures at 130
Stock with Value = $1,040,000 Value of Futures = $1,040,000
Gain in Portfolio Value = $40,000 Loss on Futures = $40,000
III. Futures Contracts on Foreign Currencies
---------------------------------------
A futures contract on foreign currency creates a binding obligation on one
party to deliver, and a corresponding obligation on another party to accept
delivery of, a stated quantity of foreign currency for an amount fixed in U.S.
dollars. Foreign currency futures may be used by the International Equity Fund
to hedge against exposure to fluctuations in exchange rates between the U.S.
dollar and other currencies arising from multinational transactions.
IV. Margin Payments.
---------------
Unlike when a Fund purchases or sells a security, no price is paid or
received by the Fund upon the purchase or sale of a futures contract.
Initially, in accordance with the terms of the exchange on which such futures
contract is traded, the Fund may be required to deposit with the broker or in a
segregated account with the Fund's custodian an amount of cash or cash
equivalents, the value of which may vary but is generally equal to 10% or less
of the value of the contract. This amount is known as initial margin. The
nature of initial margin in futures transactions is different from that of
margin in security transactions in that futures contract margin does not involve
the borrowing of funds by the customer to finance the transactions. Rather, the
initial margin is in the nature of a performance bond or good faith deposit on
the contract which is returned to the Fund upon termination of the futures
contract assuming all contractual obligations have been satisfied. Subsequent
payments, called variation margin, to and from the broker, will be made on a
daily basis as the price of the underlying security or index fluctuates making
the long and short positions in the futures contract more or less valuable, a
process known as marking to the market. For example, when a Fund has purchased
a futures contract and the price of the contract has risen in response to a rise
in the underlying instruments, that position will have increased in value and
the Fund will be entitled to receive from the broker a variation margin payment
equal to that increase in value. Conversely, where a Fund has purchased a
futures contract and the price of the future contract has declined in response
to a decrease in the underlying instruments, the position would be less valuable
and the Fund would be required to make a variation margin payment to the broker.
At any time prior to expiration of the futures contract, the Adviser and, where
applicable, the Sub-Adviser may elect to close the position by taking an
opposite position, subject to the availability of a secondary market, which will
operate to terminate the Fund's position in the futures contract. A final
determination of variation margin is then made, additional cash is required to
be paid by or released to the Fund, and the Fund realizes a loss or gain.
V. Risks of Transactions in Futures Contracts.
-------------------------------------------
There are several risks in connection with the use of futures by a Fund as
a hedging device. One risk arises because of the imperfect correlation between
movements in the price of the future and movements in the price of the
securities that are the subject of the hedge. The price of the future may move
more than or less than the price of the securities being hedged. If the price
of the future moves less than the price of the securities which are the subject
of the hedge, the hedge will not be fully effective but, if the price of the
securities being hedged has moved in an unfavorable direction, the Fund would be
in a better position than if it had not hedged at all. If the price of the
securities being hedged has moved in a favorable direction, this advantage will
be partially offset by the loss on the future. If the price of the future moves
more than the price of the hedged securities, the Fund involved will experience
either a loss or gain on the future which will not be completely offset by
movements in the price of the securities which are the subject of the hedge. To
compensate for the imperfect correlation of movements in the price of securities
being hedged and movements in the price of futures contracts, a Fund may buy or
sell futures contracts in a greater dollar amount than the dollar amount of
securities being hedged if the volatility over a particular time period of the
prices of such securities has been greater than the volatility over such time
period of the future, or if otherwise deemed to be appropriate by the Adviser.
Conversely, a Fund may buy or sell fewer futures contracts if the volatility
over a particular time period of the prices of the securities being hedged is
less than the volatility over such time period of the futures contract being
used, or if otherwise deemed to be appropriate by the Adviser. It is also
possible that, where a Fund has sold futures to hedge its portfolio against a
decline in the market, the market may advance and the value of securities held
by the Fund may decline. If this occurred, the Fund would lose money on the
future and also experience a decline in value in its portfolio securities.
Where futures are purchased to hedge against a possible increase in the
price of securities before a Fund is able to invest its cash (or cash
equivalents) in securities (or options) in an orderly fashion, it is possible
that the market may decline instead; if the Fund then concludes not to invest in
securities or options at that time because of concern as to possible further
market decline or for other reasons, the Fund will realize a loss on the futures
contract that is not offset by a reduction in the price of securities purchased.
In instances involving the purchase of futures contracts by a Fund, an
amount of cash and cash equivalents, equal to the market value of the futures
contracts, will be deposited in a segregated account with the Fund's custodian
and/or in a margin account with a broker to collateralize the position and
thereby insure that the use of such futures is unleveraged.
In addition to the possibility that there may be an imperfect correlation,
or no correlation at all, between movements in the futures and the securities
being hedged, the price of futures may not correlate perfectly with movement in
the cash market due to certain market distortions. Rather than meeting
additional margin deposit requirements, investors may close futures contracts
through off-setting transactions that could distort the normal relationship
between the cash and futures markets. Second, with respect to financial futures
contracts, the liquidity of the futures market depends on participants entering
into off-setting transactions rather than making or taking delivery. To the
extent participants decide to make or take delivery, liquidity in the futures
market could be reduced thus producing distortions. Third, from the point of
view of speculators, the deposit requirements in the futures market are less
onerous than margin requirements in the securities market. Therefore, increased
participation by speculators in the futures market may also cause temporary
price distortions. Due to the possibility of price distortion in the futures
market, and because of the imperfect correlation between the movements in the
cash market and movements in the price of futures, a correct forecast of general
market trends or interest rate movements by the Adviser and, where applicable,
Sub-Adviser may still not result in a successful hedging transaction over a
short time frame.
Positions in futures may be closed out only on an exchange or board of
trade that provides a secondary market for such futures. Although a Fund
intends to purchase or sell futures only on exchanges or boards of trade where
there appear to be active secondary markets, there is no assurance that a liquid
secondary market on any exchange or board of trade will exist for any particular
contract or at any particular time. In such event, it may not be possible to
close a futures investment position, and in the event of adverse price
movements, a Fund would continue to be required to make daily cash payments of
variation margin. However, in the event futures contracts have been used to
hedge portfolio securities, such securities will not be sold until the futures
contract can be terminated. In such circumstances, an increase in the price of
the securities, if any, may partially or completely offset losses on the futures
contract and thus provide an offset on a futures contract.
Further, it should be noted that the liquidity of a secondary market in a
futures contract may be adversely affected by "daily price fluctuation limits"
established by commodity exchanges which limit the amount of fluctuation in a
futures contract price during a single trading day. Once the daily limit has
been reached in the contract, no trades may be entered into at a price beyond
the limit, thus preventing the liquidation of open futures positions. The
trading of futures contracts is also subject to the risk of trading halts,
suspensions, exchange or clearing house equipment failures, government
intervention, insolvency of a brokerage firm or clearing house or other
disruptions of normal activity, which could at times make it difficult or
impossible to liquidate existing positions or to recover excess variation margin
payments.
Successful use of futures by a Fund is also subject to the Adviser's or,
where applicable, the Sub-Adviser's ability to predict correctly movements in
the direction of the market. For example, if a Fund has hedged against the
possibility of a decline in the market adversely affecting securities held in
its portfolio and securities prices increase instead, the Fund will lose part or
all of the benefit to the increased value of its securities which it has hedged
because it will have offsetting losses in its futures positions. In addition,
in such situations, if the Fund has insufficient cash, it may have to sell
securities to meet daily variation margin requirements. Such sales of
securities may be, but will not necessarily be, at increased prices that reflect
the rising market. A Fund may have to sell securities at a time when it may be
disadvantageous to do so.
VI. Options on Futures Contracts.
----------------------------
A Fund may purchase options on the futures contracts described above and,
if permitted by its investment objective and policies, may also write options
on futures contracts. A futures option gives the holder, in return for the
premium paid, the right to buy (call) from or sell (put) to the writer of the
option a futures contract at a specified price at any time during the period of
the option. Upon exercise, the writer of the option is obligated to pay the
difference between the cash value of the futures contract and the exercise
price. Like the buyer or seller of a futures contract, the holder, or writer,
of an option has the right to terminate its position prior to the scheduled
expiration of the option by selling, or purchasing, an option of the same
series, at which time the person entering into the closing transaction will
realize a gain or loss. A Fund will be required to deposit initial margin and
variation margin with respect to put and call options on futures contracts
written by it pursuant to brokers' requirements similar to those described
above. Net option premiums received will be included as initial margin
deposits. As an example, in anticipation of a decline in interest rates, a Fund
may purchase call options on futures contracts as a substitute for the purchase
of futures contracts to hedge against a possible increase in the price of
securities that the Fund intends to purchase. Similarly, if the value of the
securities held by a Fund is expected to decline as a result of an increase in
interest rates, the Fund might purchase put options or write call options on
futures contracts rather than sell futures contracts.
Investments in futures options involve some of the same considerations that
are involved in connection with investments in futures contracts (for example,
the existence of a liquid secondary market). In addition, the purchase or sale
of an option also entails the risk that changes in the value of the underlying
futures contract will not be fully reflected in the value of the option
purchased. Depending on the pricing of the option compared to either the
futures contract upon which it is based, or upon the price of the securities
being hedged, an option may or may not be less risky than ownership of the
futures contract or such securities. In general, the market prices of options
can be expected to be more volatile than the market prices on the underlying
futures contract. Compared to the purchase or sale of futures contracts,
however, the purchase of call or put options on futures contracts may frequently
involve less potential risk to a Fund because the maximum amount at risk is the
premium paid for the options (plus transaction costs). Although permitted by
their fundamental investment policies, the Funds do not currently intend to
write futures options, and will not do so in the future absent any necessary
regulatory approvals.
VII. Accounting and Tax Treatment.
-----------------------------
Accounting for futures contracts and options will be in accordance with
generally accepted accounting principles.
The tax principles applicable to futures contracts and options are complex
and, in some cases, uncertain. Such investments may cause a Fund to recognize
taxable income prior to the receipt of cash, thereby requiring the Fund to
liquidate other positions, or to borrow money, so as to make sufficient
distributions to shareholders to avoid corporate-level tax. Moreover, some or
all of the taxable income recognized may be ordinary income or short-term
capital gain, so that the distributions may be taxable to shareholders as
ordinary income.
PART C. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 23. Exhibits.
(a) (1) Articles of Incorporation filed February 19, 1988 is incorporated
by reference to Exhibit (1)(a) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28
to the Registration Statement, filed February 15, 1996 ("Post-
Effective Amendment No. 28").
(2) Amendment No. 1 to the Articles of Incorporation filed June 30,
1989 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (1)(b) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 28.
(3) Amendment No. 2 to the Articles of Incorporation filed June 30,
1989 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (1)(c) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 28.
(4) Amendment No. 3 to the Articles of Incorporation filed November
12, 1991 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (1)(d) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 28.
(5) Amendment No. 4 to the Articles of Incorporation filed August 18,
1992 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (1)(e) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 28.
(6) Amendment No. 5 to the Articles of Incorporation filed October
23, 1992 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (1)(f) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 28.
(7) Amendment No. 6 to the Articles of Incorporation filed January
26, 1993 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (1)(g) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 28.
(8) Amendment No. 7 to the Articles of Incorporation filed February
10, 1994 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (1)(h) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 28.
(9) Amendment No. 8 to the Articles of Incorporation filed December
29, 1994 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (1)(i) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 28.
(10) Amendment No. 9 to the Articles of Incorporation filed July 20,
1995 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (1)(j) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 28.
(11) Amendment No. 10 to the Articles of Incorporation filed November
10, 1995 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (1)(k) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 28.
(12) Amendment No. 11 to Articles of Incorporation filed July 21, 1997
with respect to the Emerging Growth Fund is incorporated by
reference to Exhibit (1)(l) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 32.
(13) Amendment No. 12 to Articles of Incorporation filed January 12,
1998 with respect to change of name to Firstar Funds, Inc. is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (1)(m) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 34.
(14) Amendment No. 13 to Articles of Incorporation filed February 17,
1999 with respect to Retail B Shares is incorporated by reference
to Exhibit (a)(14) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 36.
(15) Amendment No. 14 to Articles of Incorporation filed October 15,
1999 with respect to Core International Equity Fund is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)(15) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 38.
(16) Amendment No. 15 to Articles of Incorporation filed October 15,
1999 with respect to MidCap Index Fund is incorporated by
reference to Exhibit (a)(16) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 38.
(17) Amendment No. 16 to Articles of Incorporation filed July 12, 2000
with respect to the Small Cap Aggressive Growth Fund is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (a)(17) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 42.
(18) Amendment No. 17 to Articles of Incorporation filed August 14,
2000 with respect to the Aggregate Bond Fund, National Municipal
Bond Fund and U.S. Government Securities Fund is incorporated by
reference to Exhibit (a)(18) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 42.
(19) Amendment No. 18 to Articles of Incorporation filed August 14,
2000 with respect to Y Shares is incorporated by reference to
Exhibit (a)(19) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 42.
(b) (1) Registrant's By-laws dated September 9, 1988 are incorporated by
reference to Exhibit (2)(a) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(2) Amendment to By-Laws as approved by the Registrant's Board of
Directors on February 23, 1990 is incorporated by reference to
Exhibit (2)(b) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(3) Amendment to By-Laws as approved by the Registrant's Board of
Directors on February 15, 1991 is incorporated by reference to
Exhibit (2)(c) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(4) Amendment to By-Laws as approved by the Registrant's Board of
Directors on June 21, 1991 is incorporated by reference to
Exhibit (2)(d) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(c) (1) See Articles V and VII of the Articles of Incorporation which are
included as Exhibit (a)(14) and incorporated by reference to
Exhibits (1)(a) and (1)(i) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28 and
Article II, Sections 1, 9 and 10 of Article III, Sections 1, 2
and 3 of Article V and Section II of Article VII of the By-laws
which are incorporated by reference to Exhibits 2(a)-2(d) of
Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(d) (1) Investment Advisory Agreement between Registrant and First
Wisconsin Trust Company dated August 29, 1991 with respect to the
Money Market Fund, U.S. Government Money Market Fund, Tax-Exempt
Money Market Fund, Income and Growth Fund, Short-Intermediate
Fixed Income Fund, Special Growth Fund, Bond IMMDEXO Fund, Equity
Index Fund, Institutional Money Market Fund and U.S. Federal
Money Market Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (5)(a)
to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(2) Assumption and Guarantee Agreement between First Wisconsin Trust
Company and First Wisconsin Asset Management dated February 3,
1992 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (5)(b) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 28.
(3) Investment Advisory Agreement between Registrant and First
Wisconsin Asset Management dated March 27, 1992 with respect to
the Balanced Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (5)(c)
to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(4) Addendum No. 1 dated December 27, 1992 to Investment Advisory
Agreement between Registrant and Firstar Investment Research and
Management Company dated March 27, 1992 with respect to the
Growth Fund (formerly the MidCore Growth Fund) and Intermediate
Bond Market Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (5)(d)
to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(5) Addendum No. 2 dated February 5, 1993, to Investment Advisory
Agreement between the Registrant and Firstar Investment Research
and Management Company dated March 27, 1992 with respect to the
Tax-Exempt Intermediate Bond Fund is incorporated by reference to
Exhibit (5)(e) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(6) Assumption and Guarantee Agreement between Firstar Trust Company
and Firstar Investment Research and Management Company dated
June 17, 1993 with respect to the Income and Growth Fund is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (5)(f) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 28.
(7) Addendum No. 3 dated September 2, 1997, to Investment Advisory
Agreement between the Registrant and Firstar Investment Research
and Management Company dated March 27, 1992 with respect to the
International Equity Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit
(5)(g) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 32.
(8) Amended and Restated Sub-Advisory Agreement among Firstar
Investment Research and Management Company, the Registrant and
Hansberger Global Investors, Inc. dated June 15, 1997 with
respect to the International Equity Fund is incorporated by
reference to Exhibit (5)(h) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 32.
(9) Addendum No. 4 to the Investment Advisory Agreement between
Registrant and Firstar Investment Research and Management Company
dated March 27, 1992 with respect to the MicroCap Fund is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (5)(i) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 28.
(10) Addendum No. 6 to the Investment Advisory Agreement between
Registrant and Firstar Investment Research & Management Company
dated December 1, 1997 with respect to the Balanced Income Fund
is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (5)(j) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 34.
(11) Addendum No. 5 to the Investment Advisory Agreement between
Registrant and Firstar Investment Research & Management Company
dated as of August 15, 1997 with respect to the Emerging Growth
Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (5)(k) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 32.
(12) Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement among the Registrant, Firstar
Investment Research & Management Company, LLC and The Glenmede
Trust Company dated November 1, 1999 with respect to the Core
International Equity Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit
(d)(12) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 38.
(13) Addendum No. 7 to the Investment Advisory Agreement between
Registrant and Firstar Investment Research and Management
Company, LLC dated November 1, 1999 with respect to the Core
International Equity Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit
(d)(13) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 38.
(14) Addendum No. 8 to the Investment Advisory Agreement between
Registrant and Firstar Investment Research & Management Company,
LLC dated November 1, 1999 with respect to the MidCap Index Fund
is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(14) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 38.
(15) Form of Addendum No. 9 to the Investment Advisory Agreement
between Registrant and Firstar Investment Research & Management
Company, LLC, with respect to the Small Cap Aggressive Growth
Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(15) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 39.
(16) Form of Addendum No. 11 to the Investment Advisory Agreement
between Registrant and Firstar Investment Research and Management
Company, LLC with respect to the Aggregate Bond Fund, National
Municipal Bond Fund and U.S. Government Securities Fund is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (d)(16) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 40.
(e) (1) Distribution Agreement between Registrant, Firstar Investment
Research & Management Company, LLC, and Quasar Distributors, LLC
with respect to the Institutional Money Market Fund, Money Market
Fund, U.S. Treasury Money Market Fund, U.S. Government Fund, Tax-
Exempt Money Market Fund, Short-Term Bond Market Fund,
Intermediate Bond Market Fund, Bond IMMDEX/TM Fund, Tax-Exempt
Intermediate Bond Fund, Balanced Income Fund, Balanced Growth
Fund, Growth and Income Fund, Equity Index Fund, Growth Fund,
MidCap Index Fund, Special Growth Fund, Emerging Growth Fund,
MicroCap Fund, Small Cap Aggressive Growth Fund, Core
International Equity Fund and International Equity Fund is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (e)(1) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 42.
(f) Deferred Compensation Plan dated September 16, 1994 and Deferred
Compensation Agreement between Registrant and its Directors is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (7) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 28.
(g) (1) Custodian Agreement between Registrant and First Wisconsin Trust
Company dated July 29, 1988 is incorporated by reference to
Exhibit (8)(a) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(2) Letter dated December 28, 1989 with respect to the Custodian
Agreement with respect to the Equity Index Fund is incorporated
by reference to Exhibit (8)(b) to Post-Effective Amendment No.
28.
(3) Revised Mutual Fund Custodial Agent Service Annual Fee Schedule
dated March 1, 1997 to the Custodian Agreement with respect to
the Money Market Fund, U.S. Government Money Market Fund,
Intermediate Bond Market Fund, Bond IMMDEXO Fund, Growth and
Income Fund, MidCore Growth Fund, MicroCap Fund, Tax-Exempt Money
Market Fund, U.S. Treasury Money Market Fund, Short-Term Bond
Market Fund, Tax-Exempt Intermediate Bond Fund, Balanced Fund,
Equity Index Fund, Special Growth Fund and International Equity
Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (8)(c) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 34.
(4) Amendment dated May 1, 1990 to the Custodian Agreement between
Registrant and First Wisconsin Trust Company is incorporated by
reference to Exhibit (8)(d) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(5) Letter dated April 19, 1991 with respect to the Custodian
Agreement with respect to the Institutional Money Market Fund and
U.S. Federal Money Market Fund is incorporated by reference to
Exhibit (8)(e) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(6) Letter dated March 27, 1992 with respect to the Custodian
Agreement with respect to the Balanced Fund is incorporated by
reference to Exhibit (8)(f) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(7) Letter dated December 27, 1992 with respect to the Custodian
Agreement with respect to the Intermediate Bond Market Fund and
Growth Fund (formerly the MidCore Growth Fund) is incorporated by
reference to Exhibit (8)(g) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(8) Letter dated February 5, 1993 with respect to the Custodian
Agreement with respect to the Tax-Exempt Intermediate Bond Fund
is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (8)(h) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 28.
(9) Letter Agreement with respect to the Custodian Agreement dated as
of September 2, 1997 with respect to the International Equity
Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (8)(i) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 32.
(10) Letter Agreement dated August 1, 1995 with respect to the
Custodian Agreement with respect to the MicroCap Fund is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit No. (8)(j) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 28.
(11) Letter Agreement with respect to the Custodian Agreement with
respect to the Balanced Income Fund dated December 1, 1997 is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (8)(k) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 34.
(12) Letter Agreement with respect to the Custodian Agreement with
respect to the Emerging Growth Fund dated as of March 1, 1997 is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (8)(l) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 34.
(13) Foreign Custodian Monitoring Agreement between Registrant and
Firstar Investment Research and Management Company, LLC, dated
June 13, 1997 with respect to the International Equity Fund is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit 8(m) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 32.
(14) Assignment dated October 1, 1998 of Custodian Agreement between
Registrant and Firstar Trust Company, dated as of July 29, 1988
to Firstar Bank Milwaukee, N.A. is incorporated by reference to
Exhibit (g)(14) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 36.
(15) Letter Agreement dated November 1, 1999 with respect to the
Custodian Agreement between the Registrant and Firstar Bank
Milwaukee, N. A. with respect to the Core International Equity
Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (g)(15) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 38.
(16) Letter Agreement dated November 1, 1999 with respect to the
Custodian Agreement between the Registrant and Firstar Bank
Milwaukee, N.A. with respect to the MidCap Index Fund is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (g)(16) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 38.
(17) Global Custody Agreement dated November 3, 1999 between
Registrant and Chase Manhattan Bank with respect to the Small Cap
Aggressive Growth Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit
(g)(17) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 39.
(18) Form of Letter Agreement with respect to the Custodian Agreement
between the Registrant and Firstar Bank, N.A., (formerly Firstar
Bank Milwaukee, N.A.), with respect to the Small Cap Aggressive
Growth Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (g)(18) to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 39.
(19) Form of Letter Agreement with respect to the Custodian Agreement
between Registrant and Firstar Bank, N.A. (formerly Firstar Bank
Milwaukee, N.A.) with respect to the Conning Money Market Fund,
Ohio Tax-Exempt Money Market Fund, Aggregate Bond Fund, National
Municipal Bond Fund, Missouri Tax-Exempt Bond Fund, U.S.
Government Securities Fund, Strategic Income Fund, Equity Income
Fund, Relative Value Fund, Large Cap Growth Fund, Science &
Technology Fund, REIT Fund, Small Cap Index Fund and Global
Equity Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (g)(19) to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 40.
(h) (1) Fund Administration Servicing Agreement between Registrant and
Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC with respect to the
Institutional Money Market Fund, Money Market Fund, U.S. Treasury
Money Market Fund, U.S. Government Fund, Tax-Exempt Money Market
Fund, Short-Term Bond Market Fund, Intermediate Bond Market Fund,
Bond IMMDEX/TM Fund, Tax-Exempt Intermediate Bond Fund, Balanced
Income Fund, Balanced Growth Fund, Growth and Income Fund, Equity
Index Fund, Growth Fund, MidCap Index Fund, Special Growth Fund,
Emerging Growth Fund, MicroCap Fund, Small Cap Aggressive Growth
Fund, Core International Equity Fund and International Equity
Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(1) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 42.
(2) Fund Accounting Servicing Agreement dated March 23, 1988 between
Registrant and First Wisconsin Trust Company is incorporated by
reference to Exhibit (9)(d) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(3) Letter dated July 29, 1988 with respect to the Fund Accounting
Servicing Agreement is incorporated by reference to Exhibit
(9)(e) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(4) Letter dated December 28, 1989 with respect to the Fund
Accounting Servicing Agreement with respect to the Equity Index
Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (9)(f) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 28.
(5) Letter dated April 19, 1991 with respect to the Fund Accounting
Servicing Agreement with respect to the Institutional Money
Market Fund and U.S. Federal Money Market Fund is incorporated by
reference to Exhibit (9)(g) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(6) Letter dated March 27, 1992 with respect to the Fund Accounting
Servicing Agreement with respect to the Balanced Fund is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (9)(h) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 28.
(7) Letter dated December 27, 1992 with respect to the Fund
Accounting Servicing Agreement with respect to the Intermediate
Bond Market Fund and Growth Fund (formerly the MidCore Growth
Fund) is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (9)(i) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 28.
(8) Letter dated February 5, 1993 with respect to the Fund Accounting
Servicing Agreement with respect to the Tax-Exempt Intermediate
Bond Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (9)(j) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 29.
(9) Revised Fund Valuation and Accounting Fee Schedule dated
January 1, 2000 to the Fund Accounting Servicing Agreement with
respect to the Money Market Fund, Institutional Money Market
Fund, U.S. Treasury Money Market Fund, U.S. Government Money
Market Fund, Tax-Exempt Money Market Fund, Short-Term Bond Market
Fund, Intermediate Bond Market Fund, Bond IMMDEXTM Fund, Tax-
Exempt Intermediate Bond Fund, Balanced Income Fund, Balanced
Growth Fund, Growth & Income Fund, Equity Index Fund, Growth
Fund, MidCap Index Fund, Special Growth Fund, Emerging Growth
Fund, MicroCap Fund, Core International Equity Fund and
International Equity Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit
(h)(11) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 38.
(10) Intentionally left blank.
(11) Intentionally left blank.
(12) Letter Agreement dated August 1, 1995 with respect to the Fund
Accounting Servicing Agreement with respect to the MicroCap Fund
is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (9)(n) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 28.
(13) Letter Agreement with respect to the Fund Accounting Servicing
Agreement with respect to the Balanced Income Fund dated December
1, 1990 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (9)(o) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 34.
(14) Shareholder Servicing Agent Agreement dated March 23, 1988
between Registrant and First Wisconsin Trust Company is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (9)(p) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 28.
(15) Letter dated July 29, 1988 with respect to Shareholder Servicing
Agent Agreement is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (9)(q) to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(16) Letter dated December 28, 1989 with respect to the Shareholder
Servicing Agent Agreement with respect to the Equity Index Fund
is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (9)(r) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 28.
(17) Letter dated April 23, 1991 with respect to the Shareholder
Servicing Agent Agreement with respect to the Institutional Money
Market Fund and U.S. Federal Money Market Fund is incorporated by
reference to Exhibit (9)(s) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(18) Letter dated March 27, 1992 with respect to the Shareholder
Servicing Agent Agreement with respect to the Balanced Fund is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (9)(t) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 28.
(19) Letter dated December 27, 1992 with respect to the Shareholder
Servicing Agent Agreement with respect to the Intermediate Bond
Market Fund and Growth Fund (formerly the MidCore Growth Fund) is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (9)(u) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 28.
(20) Letter dated February 5, 1993 with respect to the Shareholder
Servicing Agent Agreement with respect to the Tax-Exempt
Intermediate Bond Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit
(9)(v) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 29.
(21) Letter dated April 26, 1994 with respect to the Shareholder
Servicing Agent Agreement with respect to the International
Equity Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (9)(w) to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(22) Amendment dated May 1, 1990 to the Shareholder Servicing Agent
Agreement between Registrant and First Wisconsin Trust Company is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (9)(x) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 28.
(23) Letter Agreement dated August 1, 1995 with respect to the
Shareholder Servicing Agent Agreement with respect to the
MicroCap Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (9)(y) to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(24) Letter with respect to Shareholder Servicing Agent Agreement with
respect to the Balanced Income Fund dated December 1, 1997 is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (9)(z) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 34.
(25) Plan of Reorganization is incorporated by reference to Exhibit
(9)(aa) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 28.
(26) Purchase and Assumption Agreement dated February 22, 1988 is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (9)(ab) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 28.
(27) Letter Agreement with respect to the Fund Accounting Servicing
Agreement with respect to the Emerging Growth Fund is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (9)(ad) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 32.
(28) Letter Agreement with respect to Shareholder Servicing Agent
Agreement with respect to the Emerging Growth Fund dated August
15, 1997 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (9)(ae) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 34.
(29) Intentionally left blank.
(30) License Agreement between Registrant and Firstar Corporation for
use of Firstar name is incorporated by reference to Exhibit
(9)(ag) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 34.
(31) Revised Shareholder Servicing Agent Agreement Fee Schedule dated
January 1, 2000 to the Fund Accounting Servicing Agreement with
respect to the Money Market Fund, Institutional Money Market
Fund, U.S. Treasury Money Market Fund, U.S. Government Money
Market Fund, Tax-Exempt Money Market Fund, Short-Term Bond Market
Fund, Intermediate Bond Market Fund, Bond IMMDEXTM Fund, Tax-
Exempt Intermediate Bond Fund, Balanced Income Fund, Balanced
Growth Fund, Growth & Income Fund, Equity Index Fund, Growth
Fund, MidCap Index Fund, Special Growth Fund, Emerging Growth
Fund, MicroCap Fund, Core International Equity Fund and
International Equity Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit
(h)(34) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 38.
(32) Internet Access Agreement with Firstar Trust Company, dated April
1998 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(35) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 35.
(33) Order Processing Agreement with M and I Trust Company, dated
April 1, 1998 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(36) to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 35.
.
(34) Service Agreement with Jack White and Company, dated May 12, 1998
is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(37) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 35.
.
(35) Service Agreement with National Investors Services Corporation,
dated June 1998 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(38)
to Post-Effective Amendment No. 35.
(36) Order Processing Agreement with Northern Trust Retirement
Consulting, L.L.C., dated February 1, 1998 is incorporated by
reference to Exhibit (h)(39) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 36.
(37) 403(b) Comprehensive Agreement with Universal Pensions, Inc.,
dated May 4, 1998 is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)
(40) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 36.
(38) Assignment dated October 1, 1998 of Fund Accounting Servicing
Agreement between Registrant and Firstar Trust Company, dated
March 23, 1988, to Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC. is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(41) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 36.
(39) Assignment dated October 1, 1998 of the Shareholder Servicing
Agent Agreement between Registrant and Firstar Trust Company,
dated March 23, 1988, to Firstar Mutual Fund Services, LLC. is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(43) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 36.
(40) Confidentiality Agreement dated June 17, 1999 between Charles
Schwab & Co., Inc. and Firstar Investment Research and Management
Company, LLC is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(44) to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 37.
(41) Operating Agreement dated June 17, 1999 among Registrant, Charles
Schwab & Co., Inc. and Firstar Investment Research and Management
Company LLC is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(45) to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 37.
(42) Retirement Plan Order Processing Amendment to the Operating
Agreement dated June 17, 1999 among Registrant, Charles Schwab &
Co., Inc., the Charles Schwab Trust Company and Firstar
Investment Research and Management Company, LLC is incorporated
by reference to Exhibit (h)(46) to Post-Effective Amendment No.
37.
(43) Services Agreement dated June 17, 1999 among Registrant, Charles
Schwab & Co., Inc. and Firstar Investment Research and Management
Company, LLC is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(47) to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 37.
(44) Letter Agreement dated November 1, 1999 regarding Fund Accounting
Servicing Agreement between Registrant and Firstar Mutual Fund
Services, LLC, with respect to the Core International Equity Fund
is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(50) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 38.
(45) Letter Agreement dated November 1, 1999 regarding Fund Accounting
Servicing Agreement between Registrant and Firstar Mutual Fund
Services, LLC, with respect to the MidCap Index Fund is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(51) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 38.
(46) Letter Agreement dated November 1, 1999 to the Shareholder
Servicing Agent Agreement between the Registrant and Firstar
Mutual Fund Services, LLC, with respect to the Core International
Equity Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(52) to
Post- Effective Amendment No. 38.
(47) Letter Agreement dated November 1, 1999 to the Shareholder
Servicing Agent Agreement between the Registrant and Firstar
Mutual Fund Services, LLC, with respect to the MidCap Index Fund
is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(53) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 38.
(48) Credit Agreement dated December 29, 1999 for Firstar Funds, Inc.
and Mercantile Mutual Funds, Inc. with Chase Manhattan Bank is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(54) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 38.
(49) Exchange Agreement dated November 2, 1999 between Registrant and
Firstar Corporation Pension Trust with respect to the Small Cap
Aggressive Growth Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit
(h)(55) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 39.
(50) Form of Letter Agreement to the Fund Accounting Servicing
Agreement between Registrant and Firstar Mutual Fund Services,
LLC, with respect to the Small Cap Aggressive Growth Fund is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(57) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 39.
(51) Form of Letter Agreement to the Shareholder Servicing Agent
Agreement between the Registrant and Firstar Mutual Fund
Services, LLC, with respect to the Small Cap Aggressive Growth
Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(58) to Post-
Effective Amendment No. 39.
(52) Form of Amendment to Shareholder Servicing Agent Agreement dated
March 23, 1988 and assigned as of October 1, 1998 with respect to
the Small Cap Aggressive Growth Fund is incorporated by reference
to Exhibit (h)(59) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 39.
(53) Form of Letter Agreement with respect to the Fund Accounting
Servicing Agreement between Registrant and Firstar Mutual Fund
Services, LLC with respect to the Conning Money Market Fund, Ohio
Tax-Exempt Money Market Fund, Aggregate Bond Fund, National
Municipal Bond Fund, Missouri Tax-Exempt Bond Fund, U.S.
Government Securities Fund, Strategic Income Fund, Equity Income
Fund, Relative Value Fund, Large Cap Growth Fund, Science &
Technology Fund, REIT Fund, Small Cap Index Fund and Global
Equity Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(60) to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 40.
(54) Form of Letter Agreement with respect to the Shareholder
Servicing Agent Agreement between Registrant and Firstar Mutual
Fund Services, LLC with respect to the Conning Money Market Fund,
Ohio Tax-Exempt Money Market Fund, Aggregate Bond Fund, National
Municipal Bond Fund, Missouri Tax-Exempt Bond Fund, U.S.
Government Securities Fund, Strategic Income Fund, Equity Income
Fund, Relative Value Fund, Large Cap Growth Fund, Science &
Technology Fund, REIT Fund, Small Cap Index Fund and Global
Equity Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (h)(61) to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 40.
(i) Opinion of Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP is filed herein.
(j) (1) Consent of Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP is filed herein.
(j) (2) Consent of KPMG LLP is filed herein.
(k) None.
(l) (1) Purchase Agreement between Registrant and ALPS Securities, Inc.
is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (13)(a) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 29.
(2) Purchase Agreement between ALPS Securities, Inc. and Sunstone
Financial Group, Inc. is incorporated by reference to Exhibit
(13)(b) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 29.
(3) Purchase Agreement between Firstar Trust (Wisconsin) and the
Registrant relating to startup of Balanced Income Fund is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (13)(c) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 34.
(4) Purchase Agreement dated February 26, 1999 between Registrant and
B.C. Ziegler & Company with respect to the Series B Shares is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (l)(4) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 38.
(5) Purchase Agreement dated November 3, 1999 between Registrant and
B.C. Ziegler & Company with respect to the Core International
Equity Fund is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (l)(5) to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 38.
(6) Purchase Agreement dated November 3, 1999 between Registrant and
B.C. Ziegler & Company with respect to the MidCap Index Fund is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (l)(6) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 38.
(7) Form of Purchase Agreement between Registrant and B.C. Ziegler
and Company with respect to the Small Cap Aggressive Growth Fund
is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (l)(7) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 39.
(8) Form of Purchase Agreement between Registrant and B.C. Ziegler &
Company with respect to the Conning Money Market Fund, Ohio Tax-
Exempt Money Market Fund, Aggregate Bond Fund, National Municipal
Bond Fund, Missouri Tax-Exempt Bond Fund, U.S. Government
Securities Fund, Strategic Income Fund, Equity Income Fund,
Relative Value Fund, Large Cap Growth Fund, Science & Technology
Fund, REIT Fund, Small Cap Index Fund, and Global Equity Fund is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (l)(8) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 40.
(9) Form of Purchase Agreement with respect to Y Shares of the
Aggregate Bond Fund, National Municipal Bond Fund and U.S.
Government Securities Fund is incorporated by reference to
Exhibit (l)(9) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 40.
(m) (1) Amended and Restated Distribution and Service Plan and Form of
Distribution and Servicing Agreement is incorporated by reference
to Exhibit (14)(a) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 30.
(2) Distribution and Services Plan for the Retail B Shares is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (m)(2) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 36.
(3) Services Plan for the Retail B Shares is incorporated by
reference to Exhibit (m)(3) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 36.
(4) Form of Amended and Restated 12b-1 Distribution and Service Plan
with respect to the Retail B Shares is incorporated by reference
to Exhibit (m)(4) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 40.
(5) Form of Amended and Restated Non-12b-1 Service Plan with respect
to the Retail B Shares is incorporated by reference to Exhibit
(m)(5) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 40.
(6) Form of Services Plan with respect to the Y Shares is
incorporated by reference to Exhibit (m)(6) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 40.
(n) (1) Intentionally left blank.
(2) Amended and Restated Plan Pursuant to Rule 18f-3 for Operation of
a Multi-Series System is incorporated by reference to Exhibit
(n)(2) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 38.
(3) Form of Amended and Restated Plan Pursuant to Rule 18f-3 for
Operation of a Multi-Series System is incorporated by reference
to Exhibit (n)(3) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 39.
(4) Form of Amended and Restated 18f-3 Plan Pursuant to Rule 18f-3
for operation of a Multi-Series System is incorporated by
reference to Exhibit (n)(4) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 40.
(o) None.
(p) (1) Code of Ethics of Firstar Investment Research and Management
Company, LLC, as Adviser with respect to each Fund of the Company
is incorporated by reference to Exhibit (p)(1) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 39.
(2) Code of Ethics of Hansberger Global Investors, Inc. as Sub-
Adviser to the International Equity Fund is incorporated by
reference to Exhibit (p)(2) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 39.
(3) Code of Ethics of The Glenmede Trust Company as Sub-Adviser to
the Core International Equity Fund is incorporated by reference
to Exhibit (p)(3) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 39.
(4) Code of Ethics of the Registrant is incorporated by reference to
Exhibit (p)(4) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 39.
(5) Code of Ethics of Quasar Distributors, LLC as affiliated
Distributor is filed herein.
Item 24. Persons Controlled By or Under Common Control with Registrant
-------------------------------------------------------------
Registrant is controlled by its Board of Directors.
Item 25. Indemnification
---------------
Article IX of Registrant's Articles of Incorporation, incorporated by
reference as Exhibit (a)(1) hereto, provides for the indemnification of
Registrant's directors and officers to the full extent permitted by the
Wisconsin Business Corporation Law and the Investment Company Act of 1940.
Article VII of the By-laws of the Registrant, incorporated by
reference as Exhibit (b)(1) hereto, provides that officers and directors of the
Registrant shall be indemnified by the Registrant against judgments, penalties,
fines, excise taxes, settlements and reasonable expenses (including attorney's
fees) incurred in connection with a legal action, suit or proceeding to the full
extent permissible under the Wisconsin Business Corporation Law, the Securities
Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of 1940.
In no event will Registrant indemnify any of its directors or officers
against any liability to which such person would otherwise be subject by reason
of his willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of
the duties involved in the conduct of his or her office. Registrant will comply
with Rule 484 under the Securities Act of 1933 and Release No. 11330 under the
Investment Company Act of 1940 in connection with any indemnification.
Insofar as indemnification for liability arising under the Securities
Act of 1933 may be permitted to directors, officers and controlling persons of
Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or otherwise, Registrant has
been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such
indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Act and is,
therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against
such liabilities (other than the payment by Registrant of expenses incurred or
paid by a director, officer or controlling person of Registrant in the
successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such
director, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being
registered, Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has
been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate
jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public
policy as expressed in the Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of
such issue.
Indemnification of the Registrant, its affiliates, their respective
assigns and their respective officers, directors, employees, agents and servants
against certain losses is provided for in Section 7.2 of the Internet Access
Agreement with Firstar Trust Company incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit
(h)(32).
Indemnification of the Registrant, its transfer agent, its
administrator and their respective affiliates, directors, trustees, officers,
employees and agents, and each person who controls them within the meaning of
the Securities Act of 1933, against certain losses is provided for in Section
12(a) of the Order Processing Agreement with Marshall & Ilsley Trust Company
incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit (h)(33) and Section 9(a) of the
Order Processing Agreement with Northern Trust Retirement Consulting, L.L.C.
incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(36).
Indemnification of the Registrant, its investment adviser and their
affiliates, directors, managers, employees and shareholders against certain
losses is provided for in Section 9 of the Service Agreement with Jack White &
Company incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(34).
Indemnification of the Registrant, its investment adviser and their
directors, managers, officers, employees and agents against certain losses is
provided for in Section 6(a) of the Service Agreement with National Investors
Services Corp. incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit (h)(35).
Indemnification of the Registrant and its directors, officers,
employees and agents against certain losses is provided for in Section 13 of the
Retirement Plan Order Processing Amendment to the Operating Agreement with
Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. and The Charles Schwab Trust Company incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit (h)(42).
Indemnification of the Registrant, its investment adviser and their
directors, officers, employees and agents against certain losses is provided for
in Section 4(a) of the Services Agreement with Charles Schwab and Co., Inc.
incorporated herein by reference as Exhibit (h)(43).
Indemnification of Registrant's principal underwriter, custodians and
transfer agents against certain losses is provided for, respectively, in Section
6 (a) of the Distribution Agreement, incorporated by reference as Exhibit (e)(1)
hereto, Section 11 of the Custodian Agreement, incorporated by reference as
Exhibit (g)(1) hereto, and Section 6(c) of the Shareholder Servicing Agent
Agreement incorporated by reference as Exhibit (h)(14) hereto. Registrant has
obtained from a major insurance carrier a directors' and officers' liability
policy covering certain types of errors and omissions.
Item 26. Business and Other Connections of Investment Adviser
----------------------------------------------------
Firstar Investment Research and Management Company, LLC, investment
adviser to the Money Market Fund, Institutional Money Market Fund, U.S. Treasury
Money Market Fund, U.S. Government Money Market Fund, Tax-Exempt Money Market
Fund, Short-Term Bond Fund (formerly the Short-Term Bond Market Fund), Growth
and Income Fund, MidCap Core Equity Fund (formerly the Special Growth Fund),
Bond IMMDEX/TM Fund, Equity Index Fund, Balanced Growth Fund (formerly the
Balanced Fund), Intermediate Bond Fund (formerly the Intermediate Bond Market
Fund), Large-Cap Core Equity Fund (formerly the Growth Fund), Tax-Exempt
Intermediate Bond Fund, International Value Fund (formerly the International
Equity Fund), Small Cap Core Equity Fund (formerly the Emerging Growth Fund),
MicroCap Fund, Balanced Income Fund, International Growth Fund (formerly the
Core International Equity Fund), MidCap Index Fund, Small Cap Aggressive Growth
Fund, Aggregate Bond Fund, U.S. Government Securities Fund and National
Municipal Bond Fund is a registered investment adviser under the Investment
Advisers Act of 1940.
To Registrant's knowledge, none of the directors or senior executive
officers of Firstar Investment Research and Management Company LLC, except those
set forth below, is, or has been at any time during Registrant's past two fiscal
years, engaged in any other business, profession, vocation or employment of a
substantial nature, except that certain directors and officers of Firstar
Investment Research and Management Company LLC also hold various positions with,
and engage in business for, their respective affiliates. Set forth below are
the names and principal businesses of the directors and certain of the senior
executive officers of Firstar Investment Research and Management Company LLC who
are or have been engaged in any other business, profession, vocation or
employment of a substantial nature.
FIRSTAR INVESTMENT RESEARCH AND MANAGEMENT COMPANY
Position with
Firstar Investment
Research and Other Business Type of
Name Management Company Connections Business
---- ------------------- --------------------- ---------
Robert L. Webster Director Executive Bank
Vice President,
Firstar Bank,
Milwaukee, N.A.
777 E. Wisconsin
Avenue, Milwaukee, WI
53202
Todd Krieg Director
Bruce Laning Director
Marian Zentmyer Director,
Chief Equity
Investment Officer
Hansberger Global Investors, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of
Hansberger, Inc., serves as sub-investment adviser to the International Equity
Fund.
To Registrant's knowledge, none of the directors or senior executive
officers of Hansberger Global Investors, Inc. except those set forth below, is,
or has been at any time during Registrant's past two fiscal years, engaged in
any other business, profession, vocation or employment of a substantial nature,
except that certain directors and officers of Hansberger Global Investors, Inc.
also hold various positions with, and engage in business for, their respective
affiliates. Set forth below are the names and principal businesses of the
directors and certain of the senior executive officers of Hansberger Global
Investors, Inc. who are or have been engaged in any other business, profession,
vocation or employment of a substantial nature.
HANSBERGER GLOBAL INVESTORS, INC.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name and Position with Other Business Type
Principal Business Hansberger Global Connections of
Address Investors, Inc. and Address<F1> Business
------------------ ----------------- ----------------- --------
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thomas L. Hansberger Chairman, CEO, Director,
President, Director Schroder Korea Fund PLC Fund
and Treasurer 33 Gutter Lane
London,
EC2B-A124 8AS
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Director, Mutual
The Bangkok Fund Fund
Bangkok, Thailand
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Advisory Board Member, Mutual
The India Fund Fund
India
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Kimberly Ann Scott Director, None
Senior Vice
President, Chief
Administrative
Officer, Chief
Compliance Officer
and Secretary
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
J. Christopher Jackson Director, None
Senior Vice
President, General
Counsel and
Assistant Secretary
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
James Everett Chaney Chief Investment None
Officer
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lauretta Ann Reeves Director of None
Research
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Francisco Jose Alzuru Managing Director None
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Erik Erwin Bieck Managing Director None
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wesley Edmond Freeman Managing Director None
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mark Poon Managing Director None
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Vladimir Tyurenkov Managing Director None
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Ajit Dayal Managing Director None
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aureole Foong Managing Director None
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thomas A. Christenson Managing Director None
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<F1> Address of all individuals: 515 East Las Olas Blvd., Suite 1300,
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301.
The Glenmede Trust Company serves as sub-investment adviser to the Core
International Equity Fund.
Set forth below is a list of all of the directors, senior officers and
those officers primarily responsible for Registrant's affairs and, with respect
to each such person, the name and business address of the Company (if any) with
which such person has been connected at any time since July 31, 1996, as well as
the capacity in which such person was connected.
THE GLENMEDE TRUST COMPANY
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
DIRECTOR ORGANIZATION AFFILIATION
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SUSAN W. CATHERWOOD The Glenmede Corporation Director
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Glenmede Trust Director
Company
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Glenmede Trust Director
Company of New Jersey
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PECO Energy Director
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
University of Vice Chairman, Board of
Pennsylvania Trustees
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The World Affairs Council Member, Board
of Philadelphia
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Monell Chemical Senses Director
Center
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Christopher Ludwick Member, Board of
Foundation Managers, Vice Chairman
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Executive Service Corps Vice Chairman, Board of
of the Delaware Valley Directors
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Montessori Genesis II Member, Advisory Board
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
United Way of Director
Southeastern Pennsylvania
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thomas Harrison Skelton Board Member
Foundation
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Catherwood Foundation Board Member
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
JAMES L. KERMES The Glenmede Trust Director
Company
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Glenmede Trust Director
Company of New Jersey
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Glenmede Trust Director, Chairman of the
Company, N.A Board
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Rittenhouse Square Board Member and Officer
Indemnity Ltd.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Assoc. for Investment Committee Member-
Mgm't & Research (AIMR) Performance Presentation
Standards
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Elwyn, Inc. Board Member
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THOMAS W. LANGFITT, M.D. The Glenmede Corporation Director
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Glenmede Trust Director
Company
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
General Motors Medical Chairman
Committee on Automotive
Safety
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
University of Board of Trustees
Pennsylvania Medical
Center
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Greater Philadelphia Member
Urban Affairs Coalition
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Philadelphia Public Member
School/Business
Partnership for Reform
Governing Board
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Secretary's Advisory Member
Committee on Infant
Mortality Department of
Health and Human Services
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Institute of Medicine Member
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
American Philosophical Member
Society
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Community College of Director
Philadelphia
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Nat'l Museum of American Trustee
History Smithsonian
Institution
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ARTHUR E. PEW, III The Glenmede Corporation Director
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Glenmede Trust Director
Company
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Manitou Island Member, Board of
Association (White Bear Directors
Lake, MN)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Minnesota Transportation Member, Board of Trustees
Museum, Inc. (Mpls, MN)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Museum of Transport. Chairman, Board of
Development Corp.(St. Directors
Paul, MN)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Osceola & St. Croix
Valley Railway (Osceola, Directors
WI)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
G. THOMPSON PEW, JR. The Glenmede Trust Director
Company
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Glenmede Fund, Inc. Director/Trustee
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Glenmede Portfolios Director/Trustee
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Glenmede Equity Fund Advisory Board Member
Opera Company of Vice President and Board
Philadelphia Member, Executive
Committee
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Philadelphia Charity Board Member, Past
Ball, Inc. President
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Philadelphia Zoo Committee Member
"Zoobilee"
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Academy of Music AOM Committee, Board
Philadelphia, Inc. Member
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(SEA) Sea Education Board Member
Association
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Corinthian Historical President, Board Member
Foundation
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Devon Horse Show Trophy Committee Member
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Corinthian Yacht Club Committee Member
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
American Health Care Director
(China)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Benchmark School Chairperson, Annual
Giving
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Special Opportunities Board Member
Group (Guilder Assoc.)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
J. HOWARD PEW, II The Glenmede Corporation Director
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Glenmede Trust Director
Company
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
J. N. PEW, III The Glenmede Corporation Director
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Glenmede Trust Director
Company
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
J. N. PEW, IV, M.D. The Glenmede Corporation Director
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Glenmede Trust Director
Company
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Glenmede Trust Director
Company of New Jersey
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Joseph N. Pew, IV, M.D., President
PC
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Flying Hills Self President
Storage, Inc.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
American Red Cross, Berks Director
County
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
French & Pickering Creek Director
Conservation Trust, Inc.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
R. ANDERSON PEW The Glenmede Corporation Director, Chairman of the
Board
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Glenmede Trust Director
Company
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Glenmede Trust Director
Company, N.A.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Sun Company, Inc. Director
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Academy of Music Member, AOM Committee
Philadelphia, Inc.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aircraft Owners and Chairman of the Board
Pilots Association
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AOPA Air Safety Chairman, Board of
Foundation Trustees
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bryn Mawr College Vice Chairman, Board of
Trustees
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Children's Hospital Vice Chairman, Board of
of Philadelphia Trustees
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Curtis Institute of Member, Board of Trustees
Music
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Jackson Laboratory Member, Corporation Board
of Trustees
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RICHARD F. PEW The Glenmede Corporation Director
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Glenmede Trust Director
Company
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Yellowstone Center for Director
Mountain Environments
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mountain Research Center, Director
Montana State University
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Teton Science School; Director
Kelly, Wyoming
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
REBECCA W. RIMEL The Glenmede Trust Director
Company
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Deutsche Banc Alex. Brown Director
Flag Investors Funds
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- Deutsche Banc Alex Brown
Cash Reserve Fund
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- Communications Income
Fund Inc.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- Real Estate Securities
Fund Inc.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- Equity Partners Fund
Inc.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- Emerging Growth Fund
Inc.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- Short-Intermediate
Income Fund Inc.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- Value Builder Fund Inc.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
University of Virginia Campaign Executive
Committee, UVA Alumni
Association Board of
Managers
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Thomas Jefferson Memorial Board of Directors
Foundation (Monticello)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Gilder Lehrman Institute Advisory Board
of American History
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Council on Foundations Board of Directors,
Robert W. Scrivner Award
Selection Committee
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ROBERT G. WILLIAMS The Glenmede Trust Director, Chairman of the
Company Board
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Glenmede Trust Director
Company of New Jersey
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Coriell Institute for Trustee, Chairman
Medical Research Investment Committee
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Elizabeth Haddon Housing President / Director
Corp (affordable housing)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Estaugh Corporation (aka President / Trustee
Medford Leas)
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Upland Corp. President
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ETHEL BENSON WISTER The Glenmede Corporation Director
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Glenmede Trust Director
Company
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Academy of Music Committee Member
Philadelphia, Inc.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Concerto Soloists Arts Award 1997 Recipient
Orchestra
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Scheie Eye Institute - Recipient, Guest of Honor
Department of Award 1998 - Scheie
Ophthalmology University Odyssey Ball
of Pennsylvania
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Philadelphia Television Board Member
Network, Inc.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NAME AND PRINCIPAL
Item 27. Principal Underwriter
---------------------
(a) Quasar Distributors, LLC, the Registrant's current principal
underwriter, does not act as principal underwriter for other
open-end investment companies as of the date of filing of this
Post-Effective Amendment No. 42.
(b) To the best of Registrant's knowledge, the directors and
executive officers of Quasar Distributors, LLC are as follows:
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Name and Principal Position and Offices with Positions and Offices
Business Address Quasar Distributors, LLC with Registrant
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
James R. Schoenike President, Board Member None
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Donna J. Berth Treasurer None
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
James J. Barresi Secretary None
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Joe Redwine Board Member None
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bob Kern Board Member None
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Paul Rock Board Member None
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jennie Carlson Board Member None
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The address of each of the foregoing is 615 East Michigan Street, Milwaukee,
Wisconsin, 53202.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(c) None.
Item 28. Location of Accounts and Records
--------------------------------
(1) Firstar Mutual Fund Services LLC, 615 E. Michigan Street,
Milwaukee, WI 53202 (records relating to its function as
custodian, transfer agent, fund accounting servicing agent,
shareholder servicing agent and administrator).
(2) Firstar Investment Research and Management Company, LLC, Firstar
Center, 777 E. Wisconsin Avenue, Suite 800, Milwaukee, WI 53202
(records relating to its function as investment adviser).
(3) Hansberger Global Investors, Inc., 515 East Las Olas Blvd., Suite
1300, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33301 (records relating to its function
as sub-investment adviser for the International Equity Fund).
(4) Quasar Distributors, LLC, 615 East Michigan Street, Milwaukee,
Wisconsin 53202 (records relating to its functions as
distributor).
(5) Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP, One Logan Square, 18th and Cherry
Streets, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19103 (Registrant's Articles
of Incorporation, By-laws and Minute Books).
(6) The Chase Manhattan Bank, 4 Chase Metro Tech Center, Brooklyn, NY
11245, ATTN: Global Investor Services, Investment Management
Group (records relating to its function as foreign subcustodian).
(7) The Glenmede Trust Company, One Liberty Place, 1650 Market
Street, Suite 1200, Philadelphia, PA 19103 (records relating to
its function as sub-investment adviser for the Core International
Equity Fund).
Item 29. Management Services
-------------------
None.
Item 30 Undertakings
------------
None.
SIGNATURES
----------
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the
Investment Company Act of 1940, the Registrant has duly caused this Post-
Effective Amendment No. 43 to the Registration Statement to be signed on its
behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Milwaukee,
and the State of Wisconsin, on the 31 day of August, 2000.
FIRSTAR FUNDS, INC.
Registrant
By: /s/ Bruce R. Laning
-------------------------------
Bruce R. Laning
Director, President & Treasurer
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Post-
Effective Amendment No. 43 to the Registration Statement of the Registrant has
been signed by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates
indicated:
Signature Title Date
---------- ---------- ----------
<F1>James M. Wade Chairman and August 31, 2000
--------------- Director
(James M. Wade)
/s/Bruce R. Laning Director,
----------------- President, Treasurer August 31, 2000
Bruce R. Laning
<F1>Richard Riederer Director August 31, 2000
------------------
(Richard Riederer)
<F1>Jerry Remmel Director August 31, 2000
-------------
(Jerry Remmel)
<F1>Glen R. Bomberger Director August 31, 2000
-------------------
(Glen R. Bomberger)
<F1>Charles R. Roy Director August 31, 2000
----------------
(Charles R. Roy)
<F1>Bronson J. Haase Director August 31, 2000
------------------
(Bronson J. Haase)
<F1>By: /s/ Bruce R. Laning August 31, 2000
-----------------
Bruce R. Laning
Attorney-in-fact
POWER OF ATTORNEY
-----------------
Glen R. Bomberger, whose signature appears below, does hereby constitute
and appoint James M. Wade, Bruce R. Laning and W. Bruce McConnel, III, and each
and any of them, his true and lawful attorneys and agents, with power of
substitution or resubstitution, to do any and all acts and things and to execute
any and all instruments which said attorneys and agents, or each and any of
them, may deem necessary or advisable or which may be required to enable Firstar
Funds, Inc. (the "Company") to comply with the Investment Company Act of 1940,
as amended, and the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Acts"), and any
rules, regulations or requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission in
respect thereof, in connection with the filing and effectiveness of the
Company's Registration Statement under the said Acts, and any and all amendments
(including post-effective amendments) thereto, including specifically, but
without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the power and authority to
sign in the name and on behalf of the undersigned as a director and/or officer
of the Company said Registration Statement and any and all such amendments
thereto that are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission under said
Acts, and any other instruments or documents related thereto, and the
undersigned does hereby ratify and confirm all that said attorneys and agents,
or each and any of them, shall do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Date: June 16, 2000 /s/Glen R. Bomberger
--------------------
Glen R. Bomberger
<PAGE>
POWER OF ATTORNEY
-----------------
James M. Wade, whose signature appears below, does hereby constitute and
appoint Bruce R. Laning and W. Bruce McConnel, III, and either of them, his true
and lawful attorneys and agents, with power of substitution or resubstitution,
to do any and all acts and things and to execute any and all instruments which
said attorneys and agents, or either of them, may deem necessary or advisable or
which may be required to enable Firstar Funds, Inc. (the "Company") to comply
with the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and the Securities Act of
1933, as amended (the "Acts"), and any rules, regulations or requirements of the
Securities and Exchange Commission in respect thereof, in connection with the
filing and effectiveness of the Company's Registration Statement under the said
Acts, and any and all amendments (including post-effective amendments) thereto,
including specifically, but without limiting the generality of the foregoing,
the power and authority to sign in the name and on behalf of the undersigned as
a director and/or officer of the Company said Registration Statement and any and
all such amendments thereto that are filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission under said Acts, and any other instruments or documents related
thereto, and the undersigned does hereby ratify and confirm all that said
attorneys and agents, or either of them, shall do or cause to be done by virtue
hereof.
Date: June 16, 2000 /s/James M. Wade
----------------
James M. Wade
<PAGE>
POWER OF ATTORNEY
-----------------
Richard K. Riederer, whose signature appears below, does hereby constitute
and appoint James M. Wade, Bruce R. Laning and W. Bruce McConnel, III, and each
and any of them, his true and lawful attorneys and agents, with power of
substitution or resubstitution, to do any and all acts and things and to execute
any and all instruments which said attorneys and agents, or each and any of
them, may deem necessary or advisable or which may be required to enable Firstar
Funds, Inc. (the "Company") to comply with the Investment Company Act of 1940,
as amended, and the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Acts"), and any
rules, regulations or requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission in
respect thereof, in connection with the filing and effectiveness of the
Company's Registration Statement under the said Acts, and any and all amendments
(including post-effective amendments) thereto, including specifically, but
without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the power and authority to
sign in the name and on behalf of the undersigned as a director and/or officer
of the Company said Registration Statement and any and all such amendments
thereto that are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission under said
Acts, and any other instruments or documents related thereto, and the
undersigned does hereby ratify and confirm all that said attorneys and agents,
or each and any of them, shall do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Date: June 16, 2000 /s/Richard K. Riederer
----------------------
Richard K. Riederer
<PAGE>
POWER OF ATTORNEY
-----------------
Jerry Remmel, whose signature appears below, does hereby constitute and
appoint James M. Wade, Bruce R. Laning and W. Bruce McConnel, III, and each and
any of them, his true and lawful attorneys and agents, with power of
substitution or resubstitution, to do any and all acts and things and to execute
any and all instruments which said attorneys and agents, or each and any of
them, may deem necessary or advisable or which may be required to enable Firstar
Funds, Inc. (the "Company") to comply with the Investment Company Act of 1940,
as amended, and the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Acts"), and any
rules, regulations or requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission in
respect thereof, in connection with the filing and effectiveness of the
Company's Registration Statement under the said Acts, and any and all amendments
(including post-effective amendments) thereto, including specifically, but
without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the power and authority to
sign in the name and on behalf of the undersigned as a director and/or officer
of the Company said Registration Statement and any and all such amendments
thereto that are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission under said
Acts, and any other instruments or documents related thereto, and the
undersigned does hereby ratify and confirm all that said attorneys and agents,
or each and any of them, shall do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Date: June 16, 2000 /s/Jerry Remmel
---------------
Jerry Remmel
<PAGE>
POWER OF ATTORNEY
-----------------
Bruce R. Laning, whose signature appears below, does hereby constitute and
appoint James M. Wade and W. Bruce McConnel, III, and either of them, his true
and lawful attorneys and agents, with power of substitution or resubstitution,
to do any and all acts and things and to execute any and all instruments which
said attorneys and agents, or either of them, may deem necessary or advisable or
which may be required to enable Firstar Funds, Inc. (the "Company") to comply
with the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and the Securities Act of
1933, as amended (the "Acts"), and any rules, regulations or requirements of the
Securities and Exchange Commission in respect thereof, in connection with the
filing and effectiveness of the Company's Registration Statement under the said
Acts, and any and all amendments (including post-effective amendments) thereto,
including specifically, but without limiting the generality of the foregoing,
the power and authority to sign in the name and on behalf of the undersigned as
a director and/or officer of the Company said Registration Statement and any and
all such amendments thereto that are filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission under said Acts, and any other instruments or documents related
thereto, and the undersigned does hereby ratify and confirm all that said
attorneys and agents, or either of them, shall do or cause to be done by virtue
hereof.
Date: June 16, 2000 /s/Bruce R. Laning
------------------
Bruce R. Laning
<PAGE>
POWER OF ATTORNEY
-----------------
Charles R. Roy, whose signature appears below, does hereby constitute and
appoint James M. Wade, Bruce R. Laning and W. Bruce McConnel, III, and each and
any of them, his true and lawful attorneys and agents, with power of
substitution or resubstitution, to do any and all acts and things and to execute
any and all instruments which said attorneys and agents, or each and any of
them, may deem necessary or advisable or which may be required to enable Firstar
Funds, Inc. (the "Company") to comply with the Investment Company Act of 1940,
as amended, and the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Acts"), and any
rules, regulations or requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission in
respect thereof, in connection with the filing and effectiveness of the
Company's Registration Statement under the said Acts, and any and all amendments
(including post-effective amendments) thereto, including specifically, but
without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the power and authority to
sign in the name and on behalf of the undersigned as a director and/or officer
of the Company said Registration Statement and any and all such amendments
thereto that are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission under said
Acts, and any other instruments or documents related thereto, and the
undersigned does hereby ratify and confirm all that said attorneys and agents,
or each and any of them, shall do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Date: June 16, 2000 /s/Charles R. Roy
-----------------
Charles R. Roy
<PAGE>
POWER OF ATTORNEY
-----------------
Bronson J. Haase, whose signature appears below, does hereby constitute and
appoint James M. Wade, Bruce R. Laning and W. Bruce McConnel, III, and each and
any of them, his true and lawful attorneys and agents, with power of
substitution or resubstitution, to do any and all acts and things and to execute
any and all instruments which said attorneys and agents, or each and any of
them, may deem necessary or advisable or which may be required to enable Firstar
Funds, Inc. (the "Company") to comply with the Investment Company Act of 1940,
as amended, and the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Acts"), and any
rules, regulations or requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission in
respect thereof, in connection with the filing and effectiveness of the
Company's Registration Statement under the said Acts, and any and all amendments
(including post-effective amendments) thereto, including specifically, but
without limiting the generality of the foregoing, the power and authority to
sign in the name and on behalf of the undersigned as a director and/or officer
of the Company said Registration Statement and any and all such amendments
thereto that are filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission under said
Acts, and any other instruments or documents related thereto, and the
undersigned does hereby ratify and confirm all that said attorneys and agents,
or each and any one of them, shall do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.
Date: June 16, 2000 /s/Bronson J. Haase
-------------------
Bronson J. Haase
FIRSTAR FUNDS, INC.
CERTIFICATE OF SECRETARY
The following resolution was duly adopted by the Board of Directors of
Firstar Funds, Inc. on June 1, 2000 and remains in effect on the date hereof:
FURTHER RESOLVED, that the directors and officers of the Company who
may be required to execute any amendments to the Registration Statement of the
Company be, and each of them hereby is, authorized to execute a Power of
Attorney appointing Bruce R. Laning, James M. Wade and W. Bruce McConnel, and
any of them, their true and lawful attorney or attorneys, to execute in their
name, place and stead, in their capacity as director or officer, or both, of the
Company any and all amendments to said Registration Statement, and all
instruments necessary or incidental in connection therewith, and to file the
same with the Securities and Exchange Commission; and any of said attorneys
shall have the power to act thereunder with or without the other said attorneys
and shall have full power of substitution and resubstitution; and any of said
attorneys shall have full power and authority to do in the name and on behalf of
said directors and officers, or any or all of them, in any and all capacities,
every act whatsoever requisite or necessary to be done in the premises, as fully
and to all intents and purposes as each of said directors or officers, or any or
all of them, might or could do in person, said acts of said attorneys, or each
and any of them, being hereby ratified and approved.
FIRSTAR FUNDS, INC.
By: /s/ W. Bruce McConnel
----------------------
W. Bruce McConnel
Secretary
Dated: August 31, 2000
EXHIBIT INDEX
EXHIBIT NO. ITEM
---------- ----
(i) Opinion of Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP.
(j)(1) Consent of Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP.
(j)(2) Consent of KPMG LLP.
(p)(5) Code of Ethics of Quasar Distributors, LLC.
