<PAGE>
AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON DECEMBER 24, 1997
SECURITIES ACT FILE NO. 333-40785
INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT FILE NO. 811-5557
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549
----------------
FORM N-2
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 [X]
PRE-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. [ ]
POST-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 1 [X]
AND/OR
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER
THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940 [X]
AMENDMENT NO. 20 [X]
(CHECK APPROPRIATE BOX OR BOXES)
----------------
PROSPECT STREET HIGH INCOME PORTFOLIO INC.
(EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN CHARTER)
60 State Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109
(Address of Principal Executive Offices)
Registrant's Telephone Number, including Area Code: (617) 742-3800
----------------
RICHARD E. OMOHUNDRO, JR., PRESIDENT
PROSPECT STREET HIGH INCOME PORTFOLIO INC.
60 STATE STREET, BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02109
(NAME AND ADDRESS OF AGENT FOR SERVICE)
----------------
With copies to:
LAURENCE E. CRANCH, ESQ. THOMAS A. HALE, ESQ.
G. DAVID BRINTON, ESQ. SKADDEN, ARPS, SLATE, MEAGHER & FLOM (ILLINOIS)
ROGERS & WELLS 333 WEST WACKER DRIVE
200 PARK AVENUE, SUITE 2100
NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10166 CHICAGO, ILLINOIS 60606
----------------
APPROXIMATE DATE OF PROPOSED PUBLIC OFFERING:
As soon as practicable after the effective date of this Registration Statement.
If any securities being registered on this form will be offered on a
delayed or continuous basis in reliance on Rule 415 under the Securities Act
of 1933, other than securities offered in connection with a dividend
reinvestment plan, check the following box. [X]
[X] This form is filed to register additional securities for an offering
pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act and the Securities Act
registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement
for the offering is 333-40785.
CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PROPOSED PROPOSED
MAXIMUM MAXIMUM
TITLE OF SECURITIES AMOUNT BEING OFFERING PRICE AGGREGATE AMOUNT OF
BEING REGISTERED REGISTERED PER SHARE(1) OFFERING PRICE(1) REGISTRATION FEE
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Common Stock, $.01 Par Value 14,742,608 $4.28125 $63,116,791 $19,126(2)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(1) Estimated solely for purposes of calculating the registration fee in accordance
with Rule 457(c) under the Securities Act of 1933. Based on the average of
the high and low sales prices reported on the New York Stock Exchange on
December 23, 1997.
(2) Of this amount, $18,955 was previously paid.
</TABLE>
THE REGISTRANT HEREBY AMENDS THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON SUCH DATE OR
DATES AS MAY BE NECESSARY TO DELAY ITS EFFECTIVE DATE UNTIL THE REGISTRANT SHALL
FILE A FURTHER AMENDMENT WHICH SPECIFICALLY STATES THAT THIS REGISTRATION
STATEMENT SHALL THEREAFTER BECOME EFFECTIVE IN ACCORDANCE WITH SECTION 8(a) OF
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 OR UNTIL THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT SHALL BECOME
EFFECTIVE ON SUCH DATE AS THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, ACTING
PURSUANT TO SAID SECTION 8(a), MAY DETERMINE.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
PROSPECT STREET HIGH INCOME PORTFOLIO INC.
FORM N-2
CROSS-REFERENCE SHEET
PARTS A AND B OF THE PROSPECTUS*
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ITEMS IN PARTS A AND B OF FORM N-2 LOCATION IN PROSPECTUS
---------------------------------- ----------------------
<S> <C>
1. Outside Front Cover ........................ Outside Front Cover Page of Prospectus
2. Inside Front and Outside Back Cover Page Outside Front Cover Page of Prospectus; Inside Front
and Outside Back Cover Page of Prospectus
3. Fee Table and Synopsis ..................... Fee Table; Prospectus Summary
4. Financial Highlights ....................... Financial Highlights
5. Plan of Distribution ....................... Outside Front Cover Page of Prospectus; Prospectus
Summary; The Offer
6. Selling Stockholders ....................... Not Applicable
7. Use of Proceeds ............................ Use of Proceeds; Investment Policies and Limitations
8. General Description of the Registrant ...... Outside Front Cover Page of Prospectus; Prospectus
Summary; The Fund; Investment Policies and
Limitations; Risk Factors and Special
Considerations; Financial Highlights; Description
of Capital Stock; Surety Arrangement for Preferred
Shares; Description of Notes
9. Management ................................. Prospectus Summary; The Investment Adviser;
Directors and Officers; Portfolio Trading;
Description of Capital Stock; Surety Arrangement
for Preferred Shares; Description of Notes;
Custodian, Transfer Agent, Dividend Disbursing
Agent, Paying Agents and Registrars
10. Capital Stock, Long-Term Debt, and Other
Securities ................................. Description of Capital Stock; Surety Arrangement for
Preferred Shares; Description of Notes; Federal
Taxation; Investment Policies and Limitations;
Dividends and Distributions; Dividend Reinvestment
Plan; Financial Highights
11. Defaults and Arrears on Senior Securities Not Applicable
12. Legal Proceedings .......................... Not Applicable
13. Table of Contents of the Statement of
Additional Information ..................... Not Applicable
14. Cover Page ................................. Not Applicable
15. Table of Contents .......................... Not Applicable
16. General Information and History ............ Prospectus Summary; The Fund
17. Investment Objective and Policies .......... Prospectus Summary; Investment Policies and
Limitations; Portfolio Trading
18. Management ................................. Prospectus Summary; The Investment Adviser;
Directors and Officers
19. Control Persons and Principal Holders of
Securities ................................. Directors and Officers
20. Investment Advisory and Other Services Prospectus Summary; The Investment Adviser;
Custodian, Transfer Agent, Dividend Disbursing
Agent, Paying Agents and Registrars; Experts
21. Brokerage Allocation and Other Practices Portfolio Trading
22. Tax Status ................................. Federal Taxation
23. Financial Statements ....................... Financial Statements
</TABLE>
- ----------
*Pursuant to Part B: Statement of Additional Information, all information
required to be set forth in Part B has been included in Part A.
Information required to be included in Part C is set forth under the
appropriate item, so numbered in Part C to this Registration Statement.
<PAGE>
PROSPECT STREET(R) HIGH INCOME PORTFOLIO INC.
14,742,608 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK
ISSUABLE UPON EXERCISE OF
RIGHTS TO SUBSCRIBE FOR SUCH SHARES
----------------
Prospect Street(R) High Income Portfolio Inc. (the "Fund") is issuing to its
shareholders of record ("Record Date Shareholders"), as of the close of business
on December 24, 1997 (the "Record Date"), transferable rights ("Rights")
entitling the holders thereof to subscribe for an aggregate of 14,742,608 shares
(the "Shares") of the Fund's Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share (the
"Common Stock"), at the rate of one share of Common Stock for every three Rights
held (the "Offer"). Fractional shares will not be issued upon the exercise of
Rights. Record Date Shareholders will receive one Right for each whole share of
Common Stock held on the Record Date. Record Date Shareholders issued fewer than
three Rights are entitled to subscribe for one Share pursuant to the primary
subscription (as described herein). The Rights entitle each Record Date
Shareholder to subscribe, subject to certain limitations and subject to
allotment, for any Shares not acquired by exercise of Rights. The Rights are
transferable and the Rights will be listed for trading on the New York Stock
Exchange (the "Exchange") under the symbol "PHY.RT," subject to notice of
issuance. Shares of the Fund's Common Stock trade on the Exchange under the
symbol "PHY." The Shares issued pursuant to the Offer will be listed on the
Exchange, subject to notice of issuance. See "The Offer." Record Date
Shareholders, where the context requires, shall also include beneficial owners
whose Shares are held of record by Cede & Co. ("Cede"), nominee for The
Depository Trust Company ("DTC"), or by any other depository or nominee. THE
SUBSCRIPTION PRICE PER SHARE (THE "SUBSCRIPTION PRICE") WILL BE $3.80.
THE OFFER WILL EXPIRE AT 5:00 P.M., NEW YORK CITY TIME, ON JANUARY 23, 1998
UNLESS EXTENDED AS DESCRIBED HEREIN (THE "EXPIRATION DATE").
AN IMMEDIATE DILUTION, WHICH COULD BE SUBSTANTIAL, OF THE AGGREGATE NET
ASSET VALUE OF THE SHARES OF COMMON STOCK OWNED BY RECORD DATE SHAREHOLDERS WHO
DO NOT FULLY EXERCISE THEIR RIGHTS MAY BE EXPERIENCED AS A RESULT OF THE OFFER
BECAUSE THE SUBSCRIPTION PRICE PER SHARE MAY BE LESS THAN THE FUND'S NET ASSET
VALUE PER SHARE ON THE EXPIRATION DATE, AND THE NUMBER OF SHARES OUTSTANDING
AFTER THE OFFER IS LIKELY TO INCREASE IN A GREATER PERCENTAGE THAN THE INCREASE
IN THE SIZE OF THE FUND'S ASSETS. IN ADDITION, AS A RESULT OF THE OFFER, RECORD
DATE SHAREHOLDERS WHO DO NOT FULLY EXERCISE THEIR RIGHTS SHOULD EXPECT THAT THEY
WILL, AT THE COMPLETION OF THE OFFER, OWN A SMALLER PROPORTIONAL INTEREST IN THE
FUND THAN WOULD OTHERWISE BE THE CASE. SEE "RISK FACTORS AND SPECIAL
CONSIDERATIONS -- DILUTION" AND "THE OFFER -- TERMS OF THE OFFER." EXCEPT AS
DESCRIBED HEREIN, RECORD DATE SHAREHOLDERS AND HOLDERS OF RIGHTS ACQUIRED DURING
THE SUBSCRIPTION PERIOD WILL HAVE NO RIGHT TO RESCIND THEIR SUBSCRIPTIONS AFTER
RECEIPT OF THEIR PAYMENT FOR SHARES BY THE SUBSCRIPTION AGENT (AS DEFINED
HEREIN).
The Fund is a diversified, closed-end management investment company with a
leveraged capital structure. The Fund's use of leverage creates the opportunity
for greater total returns but at the same time involves certain substantial
risks. See "The Fund" and "Risk Factors and Special Considerations -- Risk of
Leverage." The Fund's investment objective is to provide high current income,
while seeking to preserve shareholders' capital, through investment in a
professionally managed, diversified portfolio of "high-yield," high risk
securities (commonly referred to as "junk bonds"). INVESTMENTS IN "HIGH-YIELD,"
HIGH RISK SECURITIES ENTAIL RISKS THAT ARE DIFFERENT AND MORE PRONOUNCED THAN
THOSE INVOLVED IN HIGHER-RATED SECURITIES. AN INVESTMENT IN THE FUND IS NOT
APPROPRIATE FOR ALL INVESTORS, AND NO ASSURANCE CAN BE GIVEN THAT THE FUND WILL
ACHIEVE ITS INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE. SEE "RISK FACTORS AND SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS."
Prospect Street(R) Investment Management Co., Inc. (the "Investment Adviser")
has served as the Fund's investment adviser since the Fund's inception in 1988.
The Investment Adviser will benefit from the Offer because its fees are based on
the average managed assets of the Fund. See "The Investment Adviser."
Prior to the Expiration Date, the Dealer Managers may offer shares of Common
Stock, including Shares acquired through the purchase and exercise of Rights, at
prices they set from time to time. Because the Dealer Managers will determine
the price, they may realize profits or losses independent of any fees referred
to under "The Offer -- Distribution Arrangements."
This Prospectus sets forth concisely the information about the Fund that a
prospective investor ought to know before investing. Investors are advised to
read this Prospectus and to retain it for future reference.
(continued on following page)
----------------
THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES
COMMISSION NOR HAS THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR
ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY
OR ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO
THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Subscription Price Sales Load(1) Proceeds to Fund(2)(3)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Per Share ....... $ 3.80 $ 0.14 $ 3.66
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Total Maximum ... $56,021,910 $2,100,822 $53,921,088
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
(footnotes on following page)
----------------
PAINEWEBBER INCORPORATED TUCKER ANTHONY
INCORPORATED
----------------
THE DATE OF THIS PROSPECTUS IS DECEMBER 24, 1997.
<PAGE>
(continued from cover page)
All questions and inquiries relating to the Offer should be directed to the
Information Agent, Corporate Investor Communications, Inc., 111 Commerce Road,
Carlstadt, New Jersey 07072-2586, toll-free at (800) 633-1822. The Fund's
address is 60 State Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109, and its
telephone number is (617) 742-3800.
The Fund announced its intention to make the Offer after the close of
trading on the Exchange on November 21, 1997. The net asset value per share of
the Fund's Common Stock at the close of business on November 21, 1997 (the last
trading date on which the Fund publicly reported its net asset value prior to
the announcement of the Offer) and on December 19, 1997 was $3.97 and $3.98,
respectively, and the last reported sales price of a share of the Fund's Common
Stock on the Exchange on those dates was $4.3125 and $4.4375, respectively.
----------------
(footnotes from cover page)
(1) In connection with the Offer, the Fund has agreed to pay PaineWebber
Incorporated and Tucker Anthony Incorporated (collectively, the "Dealer
Managers"), a fee for their financial advisory, marketing and soliciting
services equal to 3.75% of the aggregate Subscription Price for Shares
issued pursuant to the Offer. The Dealer Managers will reallow to
broker-dealers included in the selling group to be formed and managed by the
Dealer Managers ("Selling Group Members"), solicitation fees equal to 2.50%
of the Subscription Price per Share for each Share issued pursuant to the
Offer as a result of their soliciting efforts. In addition, the Dealer
Managers will reallow to other broker-dealers that have executed and
delivered a soliciting dealer agreement and have solicited the exercise of
Rights, solicitation fees equal to 0.50% of the Subscription Price per Share
for each Share issued pursuant to the exercise of Rights as a result of
their soliciting efforts, subject to a maximum fee based upon the number of
shares of Common Stock held by each broker-dealer through DTC on the Record
Date. The Fund and the Investment Adviser have agreed to indemnify the
Dealer Managers and each soliciting dealer against certain liabilities under
the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
(2) Before deduction of offering expenses incurred by the Fund, estimated at
$466,000, which includes up to $100,000 that may be paid to the Dealer
Managers as partial reimbursement for their expenses relating to the Offer.
(3) Funds received by check prior to the final due date of this Offer will be
deposited into a segregated interest-bearing account (which interest will
accrue to the benefit of the Fund) pending proration and distribution of the
Shares.
----------------
Certain numbers in this Prospectus have been rounded for ease of
presentation, and, as a result, may not total precisely.
IN CONNECTION WITH THIS OFFERING, THE DEALER MANAGERS MAY EFFECT
TRANSACTIONS WHICH STABILIZE OR MAINTAIN THE MARKET PRICE OF THE RIGHTS AND THE
COMMON STOCK AT LEVELS ABOVE THOSE WHICH MIGHT OTHERWISE PREVAIL IN THE OPEN
MARKET. SUCH TRANSACTIONS MAY BE EFFECTED ON THE NEW YORK STOCK EXCHANGE, ON
NASDAQ OR OTHERWISE. SUCH STABILIZING, IF COMMENCED, MAY BE DISCONTINUED AT ANY
TIME.
<PAGE>
PROSPECTUS SUMMARY
The following is qualified in its entirety by the more detailed information
included elsewhere in this Prospectus.
PURPOSE OF THE OFFER
The Board of Directors of Prospect Street High Income Portfolio Inc. (the
"Fund") has determined that it would be in the best interests of the Fund and
its shareholders to increase the assets of the Fund available for investment so
that the Fund will be in a better position to take advantage of available
investment opportunities and increase the diversification of its portfolio.
Prospect Street(R) Investment Management Co., Inc. (the "Investment Adviser")
informed the Board of Directors of the Fund that the Investment Adviser believes
the "high-yield" bond market currently has attractive investment opportunities
and that, under current market conditions, the net proceeds of the Offer (as
defined below) could be invested at about the same or a better rate of return
than the Fund is currently earning while achieving certain other net benefits to
the Fund. The Board of Directors believes that increasing the Fund's assets will
provide the Fund with additional flexibility in connection with the Fund's
leverage, including its ability to incrementally increase the Fund's existing
leverage when desirable and to renegotiate or refinance that portion of the
Fund's leverage that comes due in 1998 with a stronger capital base. For a
further discussion of the anticipated impact of the Offer on the Fund's
leverage, please refer to "Investment Policies and Limitations" and "Risk
Factors and Special Considerations -- Risk of Leverage."
The Board of Directors also considered the impact of the Offer on its
current distribution policy to maintain, subject to market conditions, a
relatively stable level of distributions. Based on information provided by the
Investment Adviser on current market conditions in the "high yield" bond market
and available leverage opportunities, the Board of Directors believes the Offer
will not result in a change in the Fund's current level of dividends per share.
For a further discussion of the anticipated impact of the Offer on the Fund's
dividends, please refer to "Risk Factors and Special Considerations -- Dividends
and Distributions."
In addition, the Board of Directors believes that increasing the size of the
Fund may lower the Fund's expenses as a proportion of average net assets because
the Fund's fixed costs can be spread over a larger asset base and certain
variable costs, such as the fees paid to the Investment Adviser pursuant to the
Advisory Agreement (as defined herein), are reduced as the Fund's assets reach
specific levels. In addition, the issuance of additional shares may enhance the
liquidity of the Fund's shares on the New York Stock Exchange (the "Exchange").
The distribution to shareholders of transferable Rights which themselves may
have a realizable value will also afford non-participating shareholders the
potential of receiving a cash payment upon sale of such Rights, receipt of which
may be viewed as compensation for the possible dilution of their interest in the
Fund.
In determining that the Offer was in the best interests of the Fund and its
shareholders, the Board of Directors retained PaineWebber Incorporated and
Tucker Anthony Incorporated (collectively, the "Dealer Managers") to provide the
Fund with financial advisory and marketing services relating to the Offer,
including the structure, timing and terms of the Offer. In addition to the
foregoing, the Board of Directors considered, among other things, using a
variable pricing versus fixed pricing mechanism, the benefits and drawbacks of
conducting a non-transferable versus a transferable rights offering, the effect
on the Fund if the Offer is under-subscribed and the experience of the Dealer
Managers in conducting rights offerings.
TERMS OF THE OFFER
The Fund is issuing to its shareholders of record ("Record Date
Shareholders") as of the close of business on December 24, 1997 (the "Record
Date"), transferable rights ("Rights") entitling the holders thereof to
subscribe for an aggregate of 14,742,608 shares (the "Shares") of the Fund's
Common Stock, par value of $.01 per share (the "Common Stock") (the "Offer").
Each such Record Date Shareholder is being issued one Right for each whole share
of Common Stock owned on the Record Date. The Rights entitle the holders thereof
to subscribe for one Share for every three Rights held (1-for-3). Fractional
shares will not be issued upon the exercise of Rights. Record Date Shareholders
issued fewer than three Rights are entitled to subscribe for one Share pursuant
to the primary subscription (as described below). Rights may be exercised at any
time during the subscription period (the "Subscription Period"), which commences
on December 29, 1997 and ends at 5:00 P.M., New York City time, on January 23,
1998 unless extended by the Fund (the "Expiration Date"). The Rights are
evidenced by Subscription Certificates ("Subscription Certificates") that will
be mailed to Record Date Shareholders, except as discussed below under "Foreign
Restrictions."
Record Date Shareholders, where the context requires, shall also include
beneficial owners whose Shares are held of record by Cede & Co. ("Cede"),
nominee for The Depository Trust Company ("DTC"), or by any other depository or
nominee. In the case of shares held of record by Cede or any other depository or
nominee, beneficial owners for whom Cede or any other depository or nominee is
the holder of record will be deemed to be the holders of the Rights that are
issued to Cede or such other depository or nominee on their behalf.
A Record Date Shareholder's right to acquire during the Subscription Period
at the Subscription Price one Share for every three Rights held is hereinafter
referred to as the "Primary Subscription." Holders of Rights who are not Record
Date Shareholders ("Rights Holders") may also purchase Shares in the Primary
Subscription. All Rights may be exercised until 5:00 p.m., New York City time,
on the Expiration Date. (Record Date Shareholders and Rights Holders purchasing
Shares in the Primary Subscription and those Record Date Shareholders who
purchase Shares pursuant to the Over-Subscription Privilege are hereinafter
referred to as "Exercising Rights Holders.")
The first regular monthly dividend to be paid on Shares acquired upon
exercise of Rights will be the first monthly dividend, the record date for which
occurs after the issuance of such Shares following the Expiration Date. It is
the Fund's present policy to pay dividends on the last Business Day (as defined
herein) of each month to shareholders of record seven days prior to the payment
date. Assuming the Subscription Period is not extended, it is expected that the
first dividend received by shareholders acquiring Shares in the Offer will be
paid on the last Business Day of February, 1998.
OVER-SUBSCRIPTION PRIVILEGE Record Date Shareholders who fully exercise all
Rights issued to them (other than those Rights which cannot be exercised because
they represent the right to acquire less than one Share) are entitled to
subscribe for those Shares which were not otherwise subscribed for by others in
the Primary Subscription (the "Over-Subscription Privilege"). If sufficient
Shares are available, all Record Date Shareholder over-subscription requests
will be honored in full. If Record Date Shareholder requests for Shares pursuant
to the Over-Subscription Privilege exceed Shares available, the available Shares
will be allocated pro rata among those who over-subscribe based on the number of
Rights originally issued to them by the Fund. See "The Offer --
Over-Subscription Privilege."
Banks, brokers, trustees and other nominee holders of Rights will be
required to certify to the Subscription Agent (as defined herein) before any
Over-Subscription Privilege may be exercised with respect to any particular
beneficial owner, as to the aggregate number of Rights exercised pursuant to the
Primary Subscription and the number of Shares subscribed for pursuant to the
Over-Subscription Privilege by such beneficial owner and that such beneficial
owner's Primary Subscription was exercised in full. Nominee Holder
Over-Subscription Forms and Beneficial Owner Certificate Forms will be
distributed to banks, brokers, trustees and other nominee holders with the
Subscription Certificates.
The Fund will not offer or sell in connection with the Offer any Shares that
are not subscribed for pursuant to the Primary Subscription or the
Over-Subscription Privilege.
SUBSCRIPTION PRICE
The Subscription Price per Share ("Subscription Price") for the Shares to be
issued pursuant to the Offer will be $3.80.
METHOD FOR EXERCISING RIGHTS
Rights are evidenced by Subscription Certificates that, except as described
below under "Foreign Restrictions," will be mailed to Record Date Shareholders
or, if a shareholder's shares of Common Stock are held by Cede, as nominee for
DTC, or any other depository or nominee on its behalf, to Cede or such
depository or nominee. Rights may be exercised by completing and signing the
Subscription Certificate that accompanies this Prospectus and mailing it in the
envelope provided, or otherwise delivering the completed and signed Subscription
Certificate to the Subscription Agent, together with payment in full for the
Shares at the Subscription Price by the Expiration Date. Rights may also be
exercised by contacting your broker, banker or trust company, which can arrange,
on your behalf, to guarantee delivery of payment and delivery of a properly
completed and executed Subscription Certificate pursuant to a Notice of
Guaranteed Delivery ("Notice of Guaranteed Delivery") by the close of business
on the third Business Day after the Expiration Date (the "Protect Period"). A
fee may be charged for this service. Fractional shares will not be issued.
Completed Subscription Certificates must be received by the Subscription Agent
prior to 5:00 P.M., New York City time, on the Expiration Date at one of the
addresses set forth herein (unless the guaranteed delivery procedures are
complied with as described below under the heading "The Offer -- Payment for
Shares").
SALE OF RIGHTS
The Rights are transferable until the Expiration Date. The Rights will be
listed for trading on the Exchange, subject to notice of issuance. The Fund will
use its best efforts to ensure that an adequate trading market for the Rights
will exist, although no assurance can be given that a market for the Rights will
develop. Trading in the Rights on the Exchange may be conducted until the close
of trading on the Exchange on January 22, 1998, the last Business Day (as
defined below) prior to the Expiration Date. The Fund expects that a market for
the Rights will develop and that the value of the Rights, if any, will be
affected by the market price. Rights may be sold by individual holders through
brokerage channels or may be submitted to the Subscription Agent for sale by or
to the Dealer Managers. Any Rights to be submitted by the Subscription Agent to
the Dealer Managers for purchase or sale must be recieved by the Subscription
Agent at or prior to 5:00 p.m., New York City time, on January 21, 1998, two
business days prior to the Expiration Date, due to normal settlement procedures.
Trading of the Rights on the Exchange will be conducted on a regular way basis
from December 29, 1997 until and including January 22, 1998, the last Business
Day prior to the Expiration Date. If the Subscription Agent receives Rights for
sale in a timely manner, it will either sell the Rights to the Dealer Managers
or the Dealer Managers will use their best efforts to sell the Rights. The
Dealer Managers will also either purchase or attempt to sell any Rights
submitted to them by the Subscription Agent that a Record Date Shareholder is
unable to exercise because such Rights represent the right to subscribe for less
than one Share. Any commissions will be paid by the selling Record Date
Shareholder. Neither the Fund nor the Subscription Agent for the Dealer Managers
will be responsible for Rights that cannot be sold nor will they guarantee any
minimum sale price for the Rights. "Business Day" means a day on which the
Exchange is open for trading and which is not a Saturday or Sunday or a holiday,
including New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good
Friday, Patriots Day, Memorial Day, Bunker Hill Day, Independence Day, Labor
Day, Columbus Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day or any other day on which
banks in New York City or Boston are authorized or obligated by law or executive
order to close. Record Date Shareholders are urged to obtain a recent trading
price for the Rights on the Exchange from their broker, bank, financial adviser
or the financial press. Exercising Rights Holders' inquiries should be directed
to the Information Agent.
OFFERING FEES AND EXPENSES
The Fund has agreed to pay the Dealer Managers a fee for their financial
advisory, marketing and soliciting services equal to 3.75% of the aggregate
Subscription Price for Shares issued pursuant to the Offer. The Dealer Managers
will reallow to broker-dealers included in the selling group to be formed and
managed by the Dealer Managers ("Selling Group Members"), solicitation fees
equal to 2.50% of the Subscription Price per Share for each Share issued
pursuant to the Offer as a result of their soliciting efforts. In addition, the
Dealer Managers will reallow to other broker-dealers that have executed and
delivered a soliciting dealer agreement and have solicited the exercise of
Rights, solicitation fees equal to 0.50% of the Subscription Price per Share for
each Share issued pursuant to the exercise of Rights as a result of their
soliciting efforts, subject to a maximum fee based upon the number of shares of
Common Stock held by each broker-dealer through DTC on the Record Date. Fees
will be paid to the broker-dealer designated on the applicable portion of the
Subscription Certificates or, in the absence of such designation, to the Dealer
Managers. See "The Offer -- Distribution Arrangements." Other offering expenses
incurred by the Fund are estimated at $466,000, which includes up to $100,000
that may be paid to the Dealer Managers as partial reimbursement for their
expenses relating to the Offer.
FOREIGN RESTRICTIONS
Subscription Certificates will not be mailed to Record Date Shareholders
whose record addresses are outside the United States (the term "United States"
includes the states, the District of Columbia and the territories and
possessions of the United States) ("Foreign Record Date Shareholders"). Foreign
Record Date Shareholders will receive written notice of the Offer. The Rights to
which such Subscription Certificates relate will be held by the Subscription
Agent for such Foreign Record Date Shareholders' accounts until instructions are
received to exercise the Rights. If no instructions have been received by 5:00
P.M., New York City time, on January 20, 1998, three business days prior to the
Expiration Date, the Rights of those Foreign Record Date Shareholders will be
transferred by the Subscription Agent to the Dealer Managers who will either
purchase the Rights or use their best efforts to sell the Rights. The net
proceeds, if any, from the sale of those Rights by or to the Dealer Managers
will be remitted to the Foreign Record Date Shareholders.
USE OF PROCEEDS
Based on the Subscription Price of $3.80 per Share, the net proceeds of the
Offer, assuming all 14,742,608 Shares offered hereby are sold, are estimated to
be approximately $53,455,000, after deducting offering expenses payable by the
Fund estimated at approximately $466,000. The Investment Adviser anticipates,
that investment of such proceeds in accordance with the Fund's investment
objective and policies will take up to thirty days from their receipt by the
Fund, depending on market conditions and the availability of appropriate
securities for purchase, but in no event will such investment take longer than
six months. Pending such investment in accordance with the Fund's investment
objective and policies, the proceeds will be held in U.S. Government securities
(which term includes obligations of the United States Government, its agencies
or instrumentalities) and other high-quality short-term money market
instruments.
INFORMATION AGENT
Any questions or request for assistance concerning the method of subscribing
for Shares or for additional copies of this Prospectus or Subscription
Certificates or Notices of Guaranteed Delivery may be directed to the
Information Agent at its telephone number and address listed below.
Information Agent for the Offer is:
Corporate Investor Communications, Inc.
111 Commerce Road
Carlstadt, New Jersey 07072-2586
Toll Free: (800) 633-1822
Shareholders may also contact their brokers or nominees for information with
respect to the Offer.
IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EVENT DATE
- ------ --------------------------------
<S> <C>
Record Date ................................................. December 24, 1997
Subscription Period ......................................... December 29, 1997
to January 23, 1998*
Expiration Date ............................................. January 23, 1998*
Subscription Certificates and Payment for Shares Due+ ....... January 23, 1998*
Notice of Guaranteed Delivery Due+ .......................... January 23, 1998*
Payment for Guarantees of Delivery Due ...................... January 28, 1998*
Confirmation to Participants ................................ February 4, 1998*
</TABLE>
- --------------
*Unless the Offer is extended.
+A shareholder exercising Rights must deliver either (i) a Subscription
Certificate and payment for Shares or (ii) a Notice of Guaranteed Delivery by
January 23, 1998.
INFORMATION REGARDING THE FUND
The Fund has been engaged in business as a diversified, closed-end
management investment company since 1988. The Fund's investment objective is to
provide high current income, while seeking to preserve shareholders' capital,
through investment in a professionally managed, diversified portfolio of
"high-yield," high risk securities (commonly referred to as "junk bonds"). The
Fund seeks to achieve its objective of preserving shareholder's capital through
careful selection of the Fund's "high-yield," high risk investments, portfolio
diversification, and portfolio monitoring and repositioning. However, in the
severe adverse interest rate and economic environment of 1989 and 1990 the Fund
suffered a substantial decline in its net asset value and thus failed to meet
that objective during that period. Given the nature of the Fund's investments
and its leverage, it may be extremely difficult to achieve this objective on a
consistent basis in the future. See "Investment Policies and Limitations."
The Fund invests primarily in fixed-income securities rated in the lower
categories by established rating agencies (consisting principally of
fixed-income securities rated "BB" or lower by Standard & Poor's Ratings Group
("S&P") and "Ba" or lower by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. ("Moody's," and
together with S&P, the "Rating Agencies"), or nonrated fixed-income securities
deemed by the Investment Adviser to be of comparable quality. Such securities
are regarded by the Rating Agencies, on balance, as predominantly speculative
with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with
the terms of the obligation. In addition to investing in "high-yield," high risk
securities, the Fund may engage in certain options activities, the lending of
portfolio securities, and the use of futures contracts and options thereon,
reverse repurchase agreements and repurchase agreements. See "Investment
Policies and Limitations." Lower rated and nonrated securities are subject to a
greater degree of risk than higher rated securities. See "Risk Factors and
Special Considerations."
The Fund completed an initial public offering of 13,000,000 shares of its
Common Stock in November 1988, raising approximately $119.0 million.
Concurrently with its initial public offeing, the Fund issued $50,000,000
aggregate principal amount of Senior Extendible Notes (the "Senior Extendible
Notes"), and 300 shares of Taxable Auction Rate Preferred Stock(R), no par value
per share, liquidation preference $100,000 per share ("Preferred Shares").
During the fiscal years ended October 31, 1990 and 1991 the Fund repurchased
$45,000,000 of its Senior Extendible Notes. In July 1993, the Fund repurchased
the remaining $5,000,000 of Senior Extendible Notes then outstanding, and
thereafter issued, in a private placement, $20,000,000 of new Senior Notes
payable December 1, 1998 (the "Notes"), and redeemed 100 Preferred Shares,
leaving 200 Preferred Shares outstanding.
The Fund completed a non-transferable rights offering on March 25, 1997
which permitted shareholders to acquire, at a subscription price of $3.59, one
new share for every three rights held as of the record date of such rights
offering. In addition, the Fund completed transferable rights offerings on June
21, 1996, November 23, 1993 and March 4, 1993 which permitted shareholders to
acquire, at a subscription price of $3.81, $3.60 and $3.80, respectively, one
new share for each three rights held as of the record date of such rights
offerings. All of the rights issued by the Fund pursuant to the rights offering
completed in March 1997 were exercised plus an additional 25% pursuant to the
exercise of an over-allotment option by subscribers and, as a result, 12,918,092
new shares of Common Stock were issued in March 1997 with net proceeds to the
Fund of approximately $44.5 million. Approximately 61% of the rights issued by
the Fund pursuant to the rights offering completed in June 1996 were exercised
and, as a result, 5,393,885 new shares of Common Stock were issued in June 1996
with net proceeds to the Fund of approximately $19.5 million. All of the rights
issued by the Fund pursuant to the rights offerings completed in March 1993 and
November 1993 were exercised and, as a result, 4,625,000 new shares of Common
Stock were issued in March 1993 with net proceeds to the Fund of approximately
$16.7 million and 6,210,000 new shares of Common Stock were issued in December
1993 with net proceeds to the Fund of approximately $21.3 million. All of the
net proceeds from the exercise of the rights issued pursuant to the prior rights
offerings have been invested in new securities in accordance with the Fund's
investment objective.
At the date hereof, the Fund intends, but is not committed, to add
incremental leverage following the completion of the Offer. There can be no
assurance that the Fund will be able to add leverage in the amounts or at the
time it believes to be most advantageous. The ability to increase, or delays in
increasing, the Fund's leverage could, depending on market conditions, adversely
affect the Fund's earnings and net asset value. The Board of Directors has
authorized the Fund to incur incremental leverage following the completion of
the Offer. If such leverage is added, the percentage of the Fund's assets
representing leverage is expected to be substantially the same upon completion
of the Offer. The Fund anticipates that it will renegotiate and refinance the
terms of its outstanding leverage in 1998. The Fund reserves the right at any
time, if it believes that market conditions are appropriate, to increase its
level of debt or other senior securities to maintain or increase the Fund's
current level of leverage to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act and
existing agreements between the Fund and third parties.
The Fund's outstanding Common Stock, par value $0.01 per share, is listed
and traded on the Exchange. The average weekly trading volumes of the Fund's
shares of Common Stock on the Exchange for the Fund's fiscal years ended October
31, 1995, 1996 and 1997 were 187,338 shares, 272,206 shares and 191,065 shares,
respectively. As of October 31, 1997, the Fund had 44,146,293 shares of Common
Stock outstanding and net assets applicable to Common Stock of approximately
$175.9 million. The Fund's Preferred Shares and Notes are not traded on any
securities exchange.
The Fund's investments are subject to diversification, liquidity and related
investment guidelines (i) established in connection with the issuance of the
Notes and the Fund's receipt from Fitch Investors Service, Inc. of a rating of
"Aaa" for the Notes (the "Notes Investment Guidelines") and (ii) agreed upon by
the Fund and Financial Security Assurance Inc. ("Financial Security") in
connection with the issuance of the Surety Bond (as defined herein) with respect
to Scheduled Payments (as defined herein) on the Preferred Shares (the "Surety
Investment Guidelines" and, together with the Notes Investment Guidelines, the
"Investment Guidelines"). See "Investment Policies and Limitations -- Investment
Guidelines." Fitch Investors Service, Inc. issued a rating of "Aaa" for the
Notes because the Fund's portfolio, although consisting principally of lower
rated securities, is managed in accordance with the Notes Investment Guidelines
which are designed to ensure that assets underlying the Notes will be
sufficiently diversified and will be of sufficient credit quality and amount to
justify an investment grade rating of "Aaa." As a result of the issuance of the
Surety Bond pursuant to an insurance agreement with Financial Security (the
"Surety Arrangement"), the Fund receives ratings from the Rating Agencies of
"AAA"/"Aaa" for the Preferred Shares. See "Description of Notes -- Asset
Maintenance" and "Surety Arrangement for Preferred Shares -- Insurance
Agreement."
INFORMATION REGARDING THE INVESTMENT ADVISER
Prospect Street(R) Investment Management Co., Inc., an investment adviser
registered under the U.S. Investment Advisers Act of 1940, has served as
investment adviser to the Fund since its inception. The Investment Adviser was
organized in June 1988 to provide institutional clients with investment
management services.
Richard E. Omohundro, Jr., Co-President of the Investment Adviser, served as
a "high-yield" specialist and Co-Manager of the High-yield Bond Group of Merrill
Lynch Capital Markets ("Merrill Lynch") from 1978 through 1987. During that
period, the High-yield Bond Group raised approximately $13.6 billion in new
"high-yield" securities through 107 issues and provided one of the largest
secondary trading markets for "high-yield" securities. Mr. Omohundro provides
general advisory assistance to, analyzes certain policy considerations with, and
consults on a regular basis with, the Fund's portfolio manager. John A.
Frabotta, Vice President of the Investment Adviser, performed various research,
structuring and pricing functions involving "high-yield" securities as a Vice
President of Merrill Lynch from 1979 through June 1988. Mr. Frabotta serves as
the portfolio manager of the Fund (since September, 1990) responsible for the
day-to-day management of the Fund's portfolio. Mr. Frabotta has over 20 years of
experience working with "high-yield," fixed income instruments.
The Fund pays the Investment Adviser a monthly fee at the annual rate of
0.65% of the Fund's average weekly value of the total assets less accrued and
unpaid dividends on the Preferred Shares and less accrued liabilities (other
than the principal amount of the Fund's "senior securities representing
indebtedness" as defined in the 1940 Act, not to exceed $50 million, and
excluding the aggregate liquidation preference of the Preferred Shares and any
other preferred shares or senior securities issued in lieu thereof) up to and
including $175,000,000 of such managed assets, 0.55% on the next $50,000,000 of
such managed assets and 0.50% of the excess of such managed assets over
$225,000,000. Since the Investment Adviser's fee is based on the average weekly
managed assets of the Fund, the Investment Adviser will benefit from an increase
in the Fund's assets resulting from the Offer. See "The Investment Adviser." In
addition, three of the Fund's seven Directors are "interested persons" (as such
term is defined under the 1940 Act), of the Fund who could benefit indirectly
from the Offer because of such Directors' affiliations with the Investment
Adviser. See "The Investment Adviser" and "Directors and Officers."
RISK FACTORS AND SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
The following summarizes certain matters that should be considered, among
others, in connection with the Offer and investment in the Fund generally.
Dilution. An immediate dilution of the aggregate net asset value of the
shares of Common Stock owned by Record Date Shareholders who do not fully
exercise their Rights may be experienced as a result of the Offer because the
Subscription Price per Share may be less than the Fund's net asset value per
share on the Expiration Date, and the number of shares outstanding after the
Offer is likely to increase in a greater percentage than the increase in the
size of the Fund's assets. In addition, as a result of the Offer, Record Date
Shareholders who do not fully exercise their Rights should expect that they
will, at the completion of the Offer, own a smaller proportional interest in the
Fund than would otherwise be the case. Although it is not possible to state
precisely the amount of any such decrease in net asset value, because it is not
known at this time what the net asset value per share will be at the Expiration
Date or what proportion of the Shares will be subscribed, such dilution could be
substantial. For example, assuming that all Rights are exercised at the
Subscription Price of $3.80, which is 5% below the Fund's net asset value of
$3.98 per share as of December 19, 1997, the Fund's net asset value per share
(after payment of the Dealer Manager and soliciting fees and estimated offering
expenses) would be reduced by approximately $0.09 per share. The distribution to
shareholders of transferable Rights which themselves may have a realizable value
will afford non-participating shareholders the potential of receiving a cash
payment upon sale of such Rights, receipt of which may be viewed as partial
compensation for the possible dilution of their interest in the Fund. No
assurance can be given that a market for the Rights will develop or as to the
value, if any, that such rights will have.
Risk of "Leverage." Leverage creates the opportunity for greater total
returns, but at the same time involves certain risks. Any investment income or
gains earned from the capital contributed by the purchasers of the Notes, the
Preferred Shares, or other forms of leverage, which is in excess of interest and
dividends due thereon will cause the value of the dividends, if any, on the
Common Stock to rise more quickly than would otherwise be the case. Conversely,
if the investment performance of the capital contributed by the purchasers of
the Notes, the Preferred Shares, or other forms of leverage, fails to cover the
interest and dividends on such capital, the value of the Common Stock may
decrease more quickly than would otherwise be the case and dividends thereon
will be reduced or eliminated. This is the speculative effect of leverage.
During the sharp "high-yield" market decline of 1989 and 1990, the Fund's
leverage contributed to a sharp decline in the net asset value of the Common
Stock. In order to remain in compliance with the 200% asset coverage ratio
required by the 1940 Act, the Fund was required to repurchase $45.0 million of
the $50.0 million of outstanding Senior Extendible Notes. Also, to maintain
compliance with the Fund's Surety Investment Guidelines the Fund was required to
sell "high-yield" assets. The selling of "high-yield" assets below their
original cost and the retirement of $45.0 million of the Fund's Senior
Extendible Notes during the fiscal years ended October 31, 1990 and 1991,
resulted in a reduction of the Fund's total assets and caused the Fund to
realize substantial capital losses. The Surety Investment Guidelines and the
asset coverage ratio requirements combined to delay the Fund's reinvestment of
cash into "high-yield" securities as the market improved. The Fund's use of
leverage is currently benefiting the holders of Common Stock as the average cost
of funds (pursuant to its Preferred Shares and Notes obligations) was
approximately 6.08% as of October 31, 1997 while the "high-yield" market
currently offers interest income at annualized rates of approximately 11.0%.
At the date hereof, the Fund intends, but is not committed, to add
incremental leverage following the completion of the Offer. There can be no
assurance that the Fund will be able to add leverage in the amounts or at the
time it believes to be most advantageous. The ability to increase, or delays in
increasing, the Fund's leverage could, depending on market conditions, adversely
affect the Fund's earnings and net asset value. The Board of Directors has
authorized the Fund to incur incremental leverage following the completion of
the Offer. If such leverage is added, the percentage of the Fund's assets
representing leverage is expected to be substantially the same upon completion
of the Offer. The Fund anticipates that it will renegotiate and refinance the
terms of its outstanding leverage in 1998. The Fund reserves the right at any
time, if it believes that market conditions are appropriate, to increase its
level of debt or other senior securities to maintain or increase the Fund's
current level of leverage to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act and
existing agreements between the Fund and third parties.
Because the Notes, the Preferred Shares and other forms of leverage are
senior to the Common Stock in any liquidation of the Fund, such indebtedness and
senior stock would have to be paid in full before any payments would be made
with respect to the Common Stock. In addition, the risk of adverse changes in
net asset value is increased by the Fund's leveraged structure. See "Risk
Factors and Special Considerations."
The Board of Directors has authorized the Fund to submit for shareholder
approval at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders in March 1998 an amendment to the
Fund's Articles of Incorporation, as amended (the "Articles of Incorporation"),
and the Fund's investment restrictions to permit the Fund to issue a new series
of preferred stock and to issue senior securities to the full extent permitted
by the 1940 Act. See "Risk Factors and Special Considerations -- Risk of
Leverage."
Discount from Net Asset Value. Shares of closed-end funds frequently trade
at a market price that is less than the value of the net assets attributable
thereto. The possibility that shares of the Fund will trade at a discount from
net asset value is a risk separate and distinct from the risk that the Fund's
net asset value will decrease. It should be noted, however, that in some cases,
shares of closed-end funds trade at a premium to net asset value. The Fund's
shares have traded in the market above, at and below net asset value since the
commencement of the Fund's operations. See "Trading and Net Asset Value
Information." In addition, the net asset value of the Fund will change with
changes in the value of its portfolio securities. Because the Fund invests
primarily in fixed-income securities, the net asset value of the shares of the
Fund can be expected to change as general levels of interest rates fluctuate.
When interest rates decline, the value of a fixed-income portfolio can be
expected to rise. Conversely, when interest rates rise, the value of a
fixed-income portfolio can be expected to decline. In addition, in a period of
rising short-term interest rates, the higher cost of the Fund's leverage and/or
increasing defaults by issuers of "high-yield" debt obligations would likely
exacerbate such decline in the Fund's net asset value.
"High-Yield," High Risk Investments. Fixed-income securities offering the
high current income sought by the Fund will ordinarily be in the lower rating
categories of recognized rating agencies or will be nonrated. These fixed-income
securities are regarded by the Rating Agencies, on balance, as predominantly
speculative with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay principal in
accordance with the terms of the obligation and will generally involve more
credit risk than securities in the higher rating categories. The values of such
securities tend to reflect individual corporate developments to a greater extent
than higher rated securities, which react primarily to fluctuations in the
general level of interest rates, and such securities are frequently subordinated
to the prior payment of senior indebtedness. In addition, the trading market for
"high-yield," high risk securities is generally less liquid than the market for
higher rated securities. As of October 31, 1997, approximately 94.22% of the
market value of the Fund's total investments was represented by fixed-income
securities regarded by the Rating Agencies as below investment grade (that is
rated Ba1 or lower by Moody's or BB+ or lower by S&P).
In the severe adverse interest rate and economic environment of 1989 and
1990 the Fund suffered a substantial decline in its net asset value. In 1988,
when the Fund commenced operations, "high-yield" securities traded at yields
approximately 500 to 550 basis points (5.0% to 5.5%) higher than comparable U.S.
Treasury securities. In 1990, this spread widened to approximately 1250 basis
points resulting in substantial price declines in the corporate "high-yield"
bond market. During the fiscal years ended October 31, 1990 and 1991, the Fund
was obligated to repay $45.0 million of the Senior Extendible Notes, which
required the liquidation of investments that were selling at prices
substantially below their original purchase prices resulting in the realization
of substantial capital losses. Also during 1989 and 1990, the level of
"high-yield" debt security defaults increased as many issuers were unable to
obtain funds through financial intermediaries or the public "high-yield" market.
The effect of these developments on the Fund was a substantial decline in the
Fund's net asset value and a substantial reduction in the Fund's monthly
dividend. Also, the forced liquidation of a substantial portion of the Fund's
portfolio in order to repay the Senior Extendible Notes resulted in the
realization of substantial capital losses, and this severely limited the ability
of the Fund to return to its original net asset value as the "high-yield" market
improved. The "high-yield" market decline reversed in the fourth quarter of 1990
and by midyear 1991, after reinvesting a substantial amount of its cash, the
Fund's net asset value had improved substantially but to a level far less than
the net asset value at the time the Fund commenced operations.
New issue activity of "high-yield" debt securities was low in 1991, by
historical standards, totaling $10.1 billion with "high-yield" debt retirements
totaling $26.0 billion. Net new issue activity of "high-yield" debt securities
totaled $11.4 billion, $46.1 billion, $22.2 billion, $26.7 billion and $60.2
billion for the calendar years 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995 and 1996, respectively.
For the period January 1, 1997 through October 31, 1997, net new issue activity
of "high-yield" debt securities totaled $112.7 billion. The statistical
information with respect to new issue activity is based upon information the
Fund obtained from the Credit Suisse First Boston High Yield Handbook. The
spread between the yield on U.S. Treasury securities and the "high-yield" market
fluctuated between 300 and 600 basis points (3.0% to 6.0%) during the 1992 to
1996 period, which is more in line with the historical spread relationship. For
the period January 1, 1997 through October 31, 1997 the spread fluctuated
between 315 and 381 basis points (3.2% to 3.8%).
Since 1977, the historical weighted default rate on "high-yield" debt
securities has been 3.29%. The default rates on "high-yield" debt securities for
the calendar years 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995 and 1996 were 7.98%,
9.33%, 2.89%, 0.96%, 0.44%, 2.24% and 1.14%, respectively, and the default rate
for the period January 1, 1997 through October 31, 1997 was 1.33%. The defaulted
amount of "high-yield" debt securities was $18.1 billion in 1990, $20.7 billion
in 1991, $6.5 billion in 1992, $24.0 billion in 1993, $1.3 billion in 1994, $6.7
billion in 1995, $4.2 billion in 1996 and $3.1 billion for the period January 1,
1997 through October 31, 1997. The statistical information with respect to
historical default rates and amounts is based on information the Fund obtained
from the Credit Suisse First Boston High Yield Handbook.
For a more detailed discussion of the risks and special considerations with
respect to "high-yield," high risk securities, see "Risk Factors and Special
Considerations -- "High-Yield," High Risk Investments."
Dividends and Distributions. It is the Fund's present policy, which may be
changed by the Board of Directors, to pay dividends on a monthly basis to
holders of Common Stock of investment company taxable income and to distribute
any net short-term capital gains and net capital gains annually. Subject to
market conditions, the Fund seeks to provide holders of its Common Stock with a
relatively stable level of dividends per share. Based on information provided by
the Investment Adviser on current market conditions in the "high yield" bond
market and available leverage opportunities, the Board of Directors believes the
Offer will not result in a change in the Fund's current level of dividends per
share. However, there can be no assurance that the Fund will be able to maintain
its current level of dividends per share, and the Board of Directors may, in its
sole discretion, change the Fund's current dividend policy or its current level
of dividends per share in response to market or other conditions.
For a more detailed discussion of the risks and special considerations with
respect to dividends and distributions, see "Risk Factors and Special
Considerations -- Dividends and Distributions."
Proposed Reverse Stock Split. The Board of Directors has authorized the Fund
to submit for shareholder approval at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders in
March 1998 an amendment to the Fund's Articles of Incorporation authorizing a
one-for-three reverse stock split of the outstanding shares of Common Stock. The
purpose of the proposed reverse stock split is to cause a commensurate increase
in the market price of the Common Stock, thereby possibly increasing the
marginability and liquidity of the Common Stock. See "Risk Factors and Special
Considerations -- Proposed Reverse Stock Split."
Other Matters. There are additional matters which should be considered in
connection with an investment in the Fund including provisions of the Fund's
Articles of Incorporation, which may grant certain special voting rights to
holders of the Preferred Shares, limitations on the ability of the Fund to
declare dividends or other distributions contained in the 1940 Act and in the
Note Purchase Agreement (as defined herein) governing the Notes, and the
possible conversion of the Fund to an open-end investment company. See "Risk
Factors and Special Considerations" and "Share Repurchases; Conversion to
Open-End Status."
Investors should carefully consider their ability to assume the foregoing
risks before making an investment in the Fund. An investment in shares of the
Fund is not appropriate for all investors. See "Risk Factors and Special
Considerations."
<PAGE>
FEE TABLE
Shareholder Transaction Expenses
Sales Load (as a percentage of the Subscription
Price per Share)(1) ..................................... 3.75%
-----
Annual Expenses (as a percentage of net
assets attributable to common stock)(2)
Management Fees(3) ......................................... 0.73%
-----
Interest Expense ........................................... 0.60%
-----
Other Expenses ............................................. 0.54%
-----
Total Annual Expenses(4) ............................... 1.87%
=====
EXAMPLE:
CUMULATIVE EXPENSES PAID
FOR THE PERIOD OF:
----------------------------------
1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
------ ------- ------- --------
Aninvestor would pay the following expenses on a $1,000 investment, assuming a
5% annual return throughout
the periods ............................. $56 $94 $135 $248
- ------------
(1) The Fund has agreed to pay the Dealer Managers a fee for their financial
advisory, marketing and soliciting services equal to 3.75% of the aggregate
Subscription Price for Shares issued pursuant to the Offer. The Dealer
Managers will reallow to broker-dealers included in the selling group to be
formed and managed by the Dealer Managers ("Selling Group Members"),
solicitation fees equal to 2.50% of the Subscription Price per Share for
each Share issued pursuant to the Offer as a result of their soliciting
efforts. In addition, the Dealer Managers will reallow to other
broker-dealers that have executed and delivered a soliciting dealer
agreement and have solicited the exercise of Rights, solicitation fees equal
to 0.50% of the Subscription Price per Share for each Share issued pursuant
to the exercise of Rights as a result of their soliciting efforts, subject
to a maximum fee based upon the number of shares of Common Stock held by
each broker-dealer through DTC on the Record Date. The Fund has also agreed
to reimburse the Dealer Managers for their expenses relating to the Offer up
to an aggregate of $100,000. In addition, the Fund has agreed to pay fees to
the Subscription Agent (as defined herein) and the Information Agent (as
defined herein), estimated to be $30,000 and $36,000, respectively, for
their services related to the Offer, which includes reimbursement for their
out-of-pocket expenses. These fees and expenses will be borne by the Fund
and indirectly by all of the Fund's shareholders, including those
shareholders who do not exercise their Rights.
(2) Amounts are based on estimated amounts for the Fund's current fiscal year
after giving effect to anticipated net proceeds of the Offer assuming that
all of the Rights are exercised.
(3) The Fund pays the Investment Adviser a monthly fee at an annual rate ranging
from 0.65% to 0.50%. For a period of one year, the Investment Adviser waived
its advisory fee with respect to the increase in the Fund's managed assets
attributed to the exercise of rights in the rights offering by the Fund in
June 1996. See "The Investment Adviser."
(4) Total annual expenses applicable to both the common and preferred shares
relative to the average net assets of both the common and preferred
shareholders would be 1.71%.
THE FOREGOING FEE TABLE AND EXAMPLE ARE INTENDED TO ASSIST INVESTORS IN
UNDERSTANDING THE COSTS AND EXPENSES THAT AN INVESTOR IN THE FUND WILL BEAR
DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY.
The Example set forth above assumes reinvestment of all dividends and
distributions at net asset value, a payment of a 3.75% sales load and an annual
expense ratio of 1.87%. The table above and the assumption in the Example of a
5% annual return are required by Securities and Exchange Commission regulations
applicable to all investment companies. THE EXAMPLE SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED AS
A REPRESENTATION OF PAST OR FUTURE EXPENSES OR ANNUAL RATES OF RETURN. ACTUAL
EXPENSES OR ANNUAL RATES OF RETURN MAY BE MORE OR LESS THAN THOSE ASSUMED FOR
PURPOSES OF THE EXAMPLE. In addition, while the Example assumes reinvestment of
all dividends and distributions at net asset value, participants in the Fund's
Dividend Reinvestment Plan may receive shares purchased or issued at a price or
value different from net asset value. See "Dividends and Distributions; Dividend
Reinvestment Plan."
<PAGE>
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
(FOR A SHARE OF COMMON STOCK OUTSTANDING THROUGHOUT EACH PERIOD)
The table below sets forth certain specified information for a share of
Common Stock outstanding throughout each period presented. The financial
highlights for each period presented have been audited by Arthur Andersen LLP,
the Fund's independent public accountants, whose report thereon was unqualified.
The information should be read in conjunction with the financial statements and
notes thereto, which are incorporated herein by reference, in the Fund's Annual
Report as of October 31, 1997, which is available upon request from the Fund's
registrar and transfer agent, State Street Bank and Trust Company.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DECEMBER 5, 1988
(COMMENCEMENT
FOR THE FISCAL YEARS ENDED OCTOBER 31, OF OPERATIONS)
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- TO OCTOBER 31,
1997 1996 1995 1994 1993 1992 1991 1990 1989
-------- -------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- ------- -------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value --
beginning of
period ........... $ 3.90 $ 3.70 $ 3.69 $ 4.25 $ 4.03 $ 3.89 $ 3.30 $ 6.82 $ 9.15(b)
--------- --------- --------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Net investment
income ........... .46# .50# .45 .48# .63# .62 .55 .98 1.31
Net realized and
unrealized gain
(loss) on
investments ...... .24# .20# .03 (.38)# .39# .07 .56 (3.43) (2.32)
--------- --------- --------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total from
investment
operations . $ .70 $ .70 $ .48 $ .10 $ 1.02 $ .69 $ 1.11 $ (2.45) $ (1.01)
--------- --------- --------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Distributions:
Dividends from
net accumulated
investment income
To preferred
stockholders . (.03) (.04) (.05) (.03) (.06) (.10) (.16) (.22) (.19)
To common
stockholders . (.42) (.42) (.42) (.45) (.62) (.45) (.36) (.76) (1.12)
Dividends to
common
stockholders
from paid-in
capital ........ -- -- -- -- -- -- -- (.09) (.01)
--------- --------- --------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total
distributions $ (.45) $ (.46) $ (.47) $ (.48) $ (.68) $ (.55) $ (.52) $ (1.07) $ (1.32)
--------- --------- --------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Effect of sale of
common stock
and related
expenses from
rights offering .. $ (.17) $ (.04) $ -- $ (.18) $ (.12) $ -- $ -- $ -- $ --
--------- --------- --------- --------- -------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Net asset value --
end of period .... $ 3.98 $ 3.90 $ 3.70 $ 3.69 $ 4.25 $ 4.03 $ 3.89 $ 3.30 $ 6.82
========= ========= ========= ========= ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Per share market value:
End of period .... $ 4.13 $ 4.00 $ 3.88 $ 3.50 $ 4.25 $ 4.00 $ 3.50 $ 2.50 $ 6.00
========= ========= ========= ========= ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Total investment
return ..... 14.82% 15.29% 28.57% (7.78)% 23.25% 27.99% 57.36% (50.21)% (31.33)%
========= ========= ========= ========= ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Net assets, end of
period, applicable
to common stock (a) $ 175,909 $ 120,711 $ 93,309 $ 92,072 $ 79,438 $ 55,178 $ 53,040 $ 45,028 $ 92,487
Net assets, end of
period,
applicable to
preferred
stock (a) ........ $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 30,000 $ 30,000 $ 30,000 $ 30,000
========= ========= ========= ========= ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Net assets, end of
period (a) ....... $ 195,909 $ 140,711 $ 113,309 $ 112,072 $ 99,438 $ 85,178 $ 83,040 $ 75,028 $122,487
========= ========= ========= ========= ======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Ratio of operating
expenses to
average net
assets, applicable
to common stock .. 2.30% 3.06% 3.27% 3.27% 3.10% 3.68% 4.64% 8.80% 6.37%
Ratio of net
investment income
to average net
assets, applicable
to common stock .. 11.94% 13.20% 13.47% 12.25% 13.49% 15.08% 14.63% 18.94% 17.78%
Ratio of operating
expenses to
average net
assets** ......... 1.81%+ 2.21%+ 2.28%+ 2.30%+ 2.13%+ 2.28%+ 2.93%+ 6.15%+ 4.89%*+
Ratio of net
investment
income to average
net assets** ..... 9.42% 9.51% 9.39% 8.64% 9.26% 9.33% 9.24% 13.23% 13.88%*
Portfolio turnover
rate ............. 176.04% 108.33% 80.71% 72.00% 117.20% 97.86% 114.00% 63.50% 89.70%*
(a) Dollars in thousands.
(b) Net of initial offering and underwriting costs.
* Annualized.
** Ratios calculated on the basis of expenses and net investment income applicable to both the common and preferred shares
relative to the average net assets (total assets less accrued liabilities (excluding senior notes)) of both the common
and preferred shareholders.
+ Excluding interest expense, the ratio of operating expenses to average net assets, applicable to common stock and
preferred stock is 1.13%, 1.30%, 1.29%, 1.32%, 1.50%, 1.72%, 2.23%, 2.60% and 1.279%, respectively.
# Calculation is based on average shares outstanding during the indicated period due to the per share effect of the Fund's rights
offerings.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
CAPITALIZATION AT OCTOBER 31, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AMOUNT OUTSTANDING AMOUNT HELD
EXCLUSIVE OF AMOUNT BY THE FUND
HELD BY THE FUND OR FOR ITS
TITLE OF CLASS AMOUNT AUTHORIZED OR FOR ITS ACCOUNT ACCOUNT
-------------- ----------------- ------------------ ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Senior Notes .................... -- $20,000,000 -0-
Taxable Auction Rate Preferred
Stock, no par value, Liquidation
Preference $100,000 per share . 1,000 shares 200 shares -0- shares
Common Stock, $0.01 par value.... 100,000,000 shares 44,146,293 shares -0- shares
</TABLE>
INFORMATION REGARDING SENIOR SECURITIES
The following table shows certain information regarding each class of senior
security of the Fund as of the end of each fiscal year of the Fund since its
inception.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INVOLUNTARY
ASSET COVERAGE LIQUIDATION APPROXIMATE MARKET
AT TOTAL AMOUNT FOR NOTES(3) PREFERENCE VALUE PER
OCTOBER 31 OUTSTANDING OR SHARES(4) PER SHARE SHARE OR NOTE
---------- ------------- -------------- ----------- --------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Senior Extendible
Notes(1) 1989 $50,000,000 $ 3,450 -- $1,000.00
1990 15,000,000 6,002 -- 1,000.00
1991 5,000,000 17,608 -- 1,000.00
1992 5,000,000 18,036 -- 1,087.50
1993 0 -- -- --
Senior Notes(1)
1993 $20,000,000 $ 5,972 -- $ 997.50
1994 20,000,000 6,604 -- 937.10
1995 20,000,000 6,665 -- 987.50
1996 20,000,000 8,036 -- 990.00
1997 20,000,000 10,795 -- 1,003.80
Taxable Auction Rate
Preferred
Stock(2) 1989 300 Shares $408,291 $100,000 $ 100,000
1990 300 Shares 250,094 100,000 100,000
1991 300 Shares 276,800 100,000 100,000
1992 300 Shares 283,927 100,000 100,000
1993 200 Shares 497,188 100,000 100,000
1994 200 Shares 560,358 100,000 100,000
1995 200 Shares 566,544 100,000 100,000
1996 200 Shares 703,553 100,000 100,000
1997 200 Shares 979,545 100,000 100,000
- ------------
</TABLE>
(1) In July 1993, the Fund repurchased the remaining $5,000,000 principal amount
of its Senior Extendible Notes, which carried an annual interest rate
through December 31, 1993 of 10.28%, for $5,178,000. The Fund thereafter
issued $20,000,000 of new Senior Notes payable December 1, 1998, which bear
interest at a fixed annual rate of 6.53%.
(2) In July 1993, the Fund redeemed 100 shares of its Taxable Auction Rate
Preferred Stock for $100,000 per share plus accrued interest, leaving 200
such shares outstanding.
(3) Amount shown is per $1,000 of Senior Extendible Note or Senior Note, as the
case may be. Calculated by subtracting the Fund's total liabilities (not
including senior securities) from the Fund's total assets and dividing such
amount by the quotient of (a) the principal amount of outstanding Senior
Extendible Notes or the Senior Notes, as the case may be, divided by (b)
$1,000.
(4) Amount shown is per share of Taxable Auction Rate Preferred Stock.
Calculated by subtracting the Fund's total liabilities (including senior
securities constituting debt but not including the Taxable Auction Rate
Preferred Stock) from the Fund's total assets and dividing such amount by
the number of outstanding shares of Taxable Auction Rate Preferred Stock.
<PAGE>
TRADING AND NET ASSET VALUE INFORMATION
In the past, the Fund's shares have traded both at a premium and at a
discount in relation to net asset value. Although the Fund's shares recently
have been trading at a premium above net asset value, there can be no assurance
that this premium will continue after the Offer or that the shares will not
again trade at a discount. Shares of other closed-end investment companies
frequently trade at a discount from net asset value. See "Risk Factors and
Special Considerations."
The following table shows the high and low sales prices of the Fund's Common
Stock on the New York Stock Exchange Composite Tape, quarterly trading volume on
the Exchange, the high and low net asset value per share and the high and low
premium or discount at which the Fund's shares were trading for each fiscal
quarter during the two most recent fiscal years.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
QUARTERLY
TRADING PREMIUM/(DISCOUNT)
MARKET PRICE VOLUME NET ASSET VALUE TO NET ASSET VALUE(%)
------------------------ --------------- ------------------------ ----------------------
QUARTER ENDED HIGH LOW (THOUSANDS HIGH LOW HIGH LOW
OF SHARES)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
January 31, 1996 ..................... 4 3 3/4 2,826.5 3.73 3.67 7.24 2.18
April 30, 1996 ....................... 4 1/8 3 7/8 3,313.9 3.84 3.71 7.42 4.45
July 31, 1996 ........................ 4 1/8 3 5/8 4,125.6 3.88 3.79 6.31 (4.35)
October 31, 1996 ..................... 4 3 3/4 3,644.8 3.91 3.80 2.30 (1.32)
January 31, 1997 ..................... 4 3 7/8 3,835.4 3.95 3.88 1.27 (0.13)
April 30, 1997 ....................... 4 1/4 3 5/8 14,633.9 4.00 3.74 6.25 (3.07)
July 31, 1997 ........................ 4 3/16 3 13/16 15,160.8 3.85 3.76 8.77 1.40
October 31, 1997 ..................... 4 7/16 4 1/8 8,645.0 4.13 3.86 7.45 6.87
</TABLE>
The net asset value per share of the Fund's Common Stock at the close of
business on November 21, 1997 (the last trading date on which the Fund publicly
reported its net asset value prior to the announcement of the Offer) and on
December 19, 1997 was $3.97 and $3.98, respectively, and the last reported sales
price of a share of the Fund's Common Stock on the Exchange on those dates was
$4.3125 and $4.4375, respectively.
<PAGE>
THE FUND
The Fund is a diversified, closed-end management investment company with a
leveraged capital structure, consisting of (i) $20,000,000 aggregate principal
amount of Notes, (ii) 200 Preferred Shares (liquidation preference $100,000 per
share) and (iii) 44,146,293 shares of Common Stock, as of October 31, 1997. The
Fund's investment objective is to provide high current income, while seeking to
preserve shareholders' capital, through investment in a professionally managed,
diversified portfolio of "high-yield," high risk securities (commonly referred
to as "junk bonds"). The Fund invests primarily in fixed-income securities rated
in the lower categories by established rating agencies (consisting principally
of fixed-income securities rated "BB"/"Ba" or lower by the Rating Agencies(1))
or nonrated fixed-income securities deemed by the Investment Adviser to be of
comparable quality. The Fund's investments are subject to the Investment
Guidelines. See "Investment Policies and Limitations -- Investment Guidelines."
The fixed-income securities in which the Fund invests are regarded by the Rating
Agencies, on balance, as predominantly speculative with respect to capacity to
pay interest and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the obligation
and generally involve more credit risk than securities in the higher rating
categories. See "Investment Policies and Limitations" and "Risk Factors and
Special Considerations."
- ----------------
(1) Throughout this Prospectus, references to ratings by the Rating Agencies
will indicate the S&P rating followed by the Moody's rating in the format
shown.
The Fund's portfolio consists primarily of "high-yield," high risk
fixed-income securities. "High-yield," high risk securities offer a higher yield
to maturity than comparable securities with higher ratings as compensation for
holding an obligation of an issuer perceived to be less creditworthy. In the
severe adverse interest rate and economic environment of 1989 and 1990 the Fund
suffered a substantial decline in its net asset value. In 1988, when the Fund
commenced operations, "high-yield" securities traded at yields approximately 500
to 550 basis points (5.0% to 5.5%) higher than comparable U.S. Treasury
securities. In 1990, this spread widened to approximately 1250 basis points
resulting in substantial price declines in the corporate "high-yield" bond
market. During the fiscal years ended October 31, 1990 and 1991 the Fund was
obligated to repay $45.0 million of the previously outstanding Senior Extendible
Notes, which required the liquidation of investments that were selling at prices
substantially below their original purchase prices resulting in the realization
of substantial capital losses. Also during 1989 and 1990, the level of
"high-yield" debt security defaults increased as many issuers were unable to
obtain funds through financial intermediaries or the public "high-yield" market.
The effect of these developments on the Fund was a substantial decline in the
Fund's net asset value and a substantial reduction in the Fund's monthly
dividend. Also, the forced liquidation of a substantial portion of the Fund's
portfolio in order to repay the Senior Extendible Notes resulted in the
realization of substantial capital losses, and this severely limited the ability
of the Fund to return to its original net asset value as the "high-yield" market
improved. The "high-yield" market decline reversed in the fourth quarter of 1990
and by midyear 1991, after reinvesting a substantial amount of its cash, the
Fund's net asset value had improved substantially but to a level far less than
the net asset value at the time the Fund commenced operations.
The "high-yield" market, as measured by the Credit Suisse First Boston High
Yield Index, posted total annual returns of 43.75%, 16.66%, 18.91%, -0.97%,
17.38% and 12.42% for the calendar years 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995 and 1996,
respectively. The ten year U.S. Treasury Bond produced a total return of 16.46%,
6.52%, 11.94%, -6.08%, 23.68% and 0.89% for the calendar years 1991, 1992, 1993,
1994, 1995 and 1996, respectively. The ten year U.S. Treasury Bond produced a
total return of 10.82% for the period January 1, 1997 through October 31, 1997.
See "Financial Highlights" for information concerning the Fund's return.
New issue activity of "high-yield" debt securities was low in 1991, by
historical standards, totaling $10.1 billion with "high-yield" debt retirements
totaling $26.0 billion. Net new issue activity of "high-yield" debt securities
totaled $11.4 billion, $46.1 billion, $22.2 billion, $26.7 billion and $60.2
billion for the calendar years 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995 and 1996, respectively.
For the period January 1, 1997 through October 31, 1997, net new issue activity
of "high yield" debt securities totaled $112.7 billion. The statistical
information with respect to new issue activity is based upon information the
Fund obtained from the Credit Suisse First Boston High Yield Handbook. The
spread between the yield on U.S. Treasury securities and the "high-yield" market
fluctuated between 300 and 600 basis points (3.0% to 6.0%) during the 1992 to
1996 period, which is more in line with the historical spread relationship. For
the period January 1, 1997 through October 31, 1997, the spread fluctuated
between 315 and 351 basis points (3.2% to 3.8%).
Since 1977, the historical weighted default rate on "high-yield" debt
securities has been 3.29%. The default rates on "high-yield" debt securities for
the calendar years 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995 and 1996 were 7.98%,
9.33%, 2.89%, 0.96%, 0.44%, 2.24% and 1.14%, respectively. The defaulted amount
of "high-yield" debt securities was $18.1 billion in 1990, $20.7 billion in
1991, $6.5 billion in 1992, $24.0 billion in 1993, $1.3 billion in 1994, $6.7
billion in 1995, $4.2 billion in 1996 and $3.1 billion for the period January 1,
1997 through October 31, 1997. The statistical information with respect to
historical default rates and amounts is based on information the Fund obtained
from the Credit Suisse First Boston High Yield Handbook.
The capital structure of the Fund has been designed to take advantage of the
historical spread in yields between "high-yield" securities and representative
U.S. Treasury securities, compared with the average default loss on "high-yield"
securities. In addition, through investment leverage, investors in the Common
Stock of the Fund receive increased yields to the extent that the rate of return
(i.e., the current interest yield on the Fund's portfolio reduced by the actual
default loss rate experienced on that portfolio) earned on the Fund's assets,
exceeds, after expenses of Fund management, the interest and dividend rates on
the Notes and Preferred Shares. Conversely, to the extent that the rate of
return on the portfolio does not exceed the interest and dividend rates on the
Notes and Preferred Shares, yield to investors in the Common Stock will be
reduced.
The Fund is a closed-end investment company. Closed-end investment companies
differ from open-end investment companies (commonly referred to as "mutual
funds") in that closed-end investment companies have a fixed capital base,
whereas open-end companies issue securities redeemable at net asset value at any
time at the option of the shareholder and typically engage in a continuous
offering of their shares. Accordingly, open-end investment companies are subject
to periodic asset in-flows and out-flows that can complicate portfolio
management. Closed-end investment companies do not face the prospect of having
to liquidate portfolio holdings to satisfy redemptions at the option of
shareholders or having to maintain cash positions to meet the possibility of
such redemptions. The Fund will, however, be required to have sufficient cash or
cash equivalents to meet interest payments on the Notes and dividend payments on
the Preferred Shares and to fund certain redemptions of these securities in
certain circumstances. See "Description of Notes," "Description of Capital
Stock" and "Surety Arrangement for Preferred Shares."
The Fund completed a non-transferable rights offering on March 25, 1997
which permitted shareholders to acquire, at a subscription price of $3.59, one
new share for every three rights held as of the record date of such rights
offering. In addition, the Fund completed transferable rights offerings on June
21, 1996, November 23, 1993 and March 4, 1993, which permitted shareholders to
acquire, at a subscription price of $3.81, $3.60 and $3.80, respectively, one
new share for each three rights held as of the record date of such rights
offerings. All of the rights issued by the Fund pursuant to the rights offering
completed in March 1997 were exercised plus an additional 25% pursuant to the
exercise of an over-allotment option by subscribers and, as a result, 12,918,092
new shares of Common Stock were issued in March 1997 with net proceeds to the
Fund of approximately $44.5 million. Approximately 61% of the rights issued by
the Fund pursuant to the rights offering completed in June 1996 were exercised
and, as a result, 5,393,885 new shares of Common Stock were issued in June 1996
with net proceeds to the Fund of approximately $19.5 million. All of the rights
issued by the Fund pursuant to the rights offerings completed in March 1993 and
November 1993 were exercised and, as a result, 4,625,000 new shares of Common
Stock were issued in March 1993 with net proceeds to the Fund of approximately
$16.7 million and 6,210,000 new shares of Common Stock were issued in December
1993 with net proceeds to the Fund of approximately $21.3 million. All of the
net proceeds from the exercise of the rights pursuant to the prior rights
offerings have been invested in new securities in accordance with the Fund's
investment objective.
The Fund was organized as a corporation under the laws of Maryland on May
13, 1988 and has registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the
"SEC") under the 1940 Act. The Fund's principal office is located at 60 State
Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109. The Fund's Investment Adviser is Prospect
Street(R) Investment Management Co., Inc., an investment management firm
registered with the SEC under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended.
See "The Investment Adviser."
THE OFFER
PURPOSE OF THE OFFER
The Board of Directors of the Fund has determined that it would be in the
best interests of the Fund and its shareholders to increase the assets of the
Fund available for investment so that the Fund will be in a better position to
take advantage of available investment opportunities and increase the
diversification of its portfolio. The Investment Adviser informed the Board of
Directors of the Fund that the Investment Adviser believes the "high-yield" bond
market currently has attractive investment opportunities and that, under current
market conditions, the net proceeds of the Offer could be invested at about the
same or a better rate of return than the Fund is currently earning while
achieving certain other net benefits to the Fund. The Board of Directors
believes that increasing the Fund's assets will provide the Fund with additional
flexibility in connection with the Fund's leverage, including its ability to
incrementally increase the Fund's existing leverage when desirable and to
renegotiate or refinance that portion of the Fund's leverage that comes due in
1998 with a stronger capital base. At the date hereof, the Fund intends but is
not committed to add incremental leverage to the Fund following the completion
of the Offer. The Board of Directors has authorized the Fund to incur
incremental leverage following the completion of the Offer. If such leverage is
added, the percentage of the Fund's assets representing leverage is expected to
be substantially the same upon completion of the Offer. For a further discussion
of the anticipated impact of the Offer on the Fund's leverage, please refer to
"Investment Policies and Limitations" and "Risk Factors and Special
Considerations -- Risk of Leverage."
The Board of Directors also considered the impact of the Offer on its
current distribution policy to maintain, subject to market conditions, a
relatively stable level of distributions. Based on information provided by the
Investment Adviser on current market conditions in the "high yield" bond market
and available leverage opportunities, the Board of Directors believes the Offer
will not result in a change in the Fund's current level of dividends per share.
There can be no assurance the Fund will maintain its current dividend policy or
its current level of dividends per share. The Board of Directors may, in its
sole discretion, change the Fund's dividend policy and level of dividends per
share at any time. For a further discussion of the anticipated impact of the
Offer on the Fund's dividends, please refer to "Risk Factors and Special
Considerations -- Dividends and Distributions."
In addition, the Board of Directors believes that increasing the size of the
Fund may lower the Fund's expenses as a proportion of average net assets because
the Fund's fixed costs can be spread over a larger asset base and certain
variable costs, such as the fees paid to the Investment Adviser pursuant to the
Advisory Agreement (as defined herein), are reduced as the Fund's assets reach
specific levels. In addition, the issuance of additional shares may enhance the
liquidity of the Fund's shares on the Exchange. The distribution to shareholders
of transferable rights which themselves may have a realizable value will also
afford non-participating shareholders the potential of receiving a cash payment
upon sale of such Rights, receipt of which may be viewed as compensation for the
possible dilution of their interest in the Fund.
In determining that the Offer was in the best interests of the Fund and its
shareholders, the Board of Directors retained the Dealer Managers to provide the
Fund with financial advisory and marketing services relating to the Offer,
including the structure, timing and terms of the Offer. In addition to the
foregoing, the Board of Directors considered, among other things, using a
variable pricing versus fixed pricing mechanism, the benefits and drawbacks of
conducting a non-transferable versus a transferable rights offering, the effect
on the Fund if the Offer is undersubscribed and the experience of the Dealer
Managers in conducting rights offerings.
The Investment Adviser will benefit from the Offer because the Investment
Adviser's fee is based on the average weekly managed assets of the Fund.
The Fund may, in the future and at its discretion, choose to make additional
rights offerings from time to time for a number of shares and on terms which may
or may not be similar to the Offer. Any such future rights offering will be made
in accordance with the 1940 Act.
TERMS OF THE OFFER
The Fund is issuing to its Record Date Shareholders, as of the close of
business on December 24, 1997, Rights entitling the holders thereof to subscribe
for an aggregate of 14,742,608 Shares of the Fund's Common Stock. Each such
Record Date Shareholder is being issued one Right for each whole share of Common
Stock owned on the Record Date. The Rights entitle the holders thereof to
subscribe for one Share for every three Rights held (1-for-3). Fractional shares
will not be issued upon the exercise of Rights. Record Date Shareholders issued
fewer than three Rights are entitled to subscribe for one Share pursuant to the
Primary Subscription. Rights may be exercised at any time during the
Subscription Period, which commences on December 29, 1997 and ends at 5:00 P.M.,
New York City time, on January 23, 1998, unless extended by the Fund. The Rights
are evidenced by Subscription Certificates that will be mailed to Record Date
Shareholders, except as discussed below under "Foreign Shareholders."
Shares not subscribed for in the Primary Subscription will be offered, by
means of the Over-Subscription Privilege, to those Record Date Shareholders who
have exercised all Rights issued to them and who wish to acquire more than the
number of Shares they are entitled to purchase pursuant to the exercise of their
Rights (other than those Rights which cannot be exercised because they represent
the right to acquire less than one share). Shares acquired pursuant to the
Over-Subscription Privilege are subject to allotment, as more fully discussed
below under "Over-Subscription Privilege." For purposes of determining the
maximum number of Shares a shareholder may acquire pursuant to the Offer,
shareholders whose shares are held of record by Cede, as nominee for DTC, or by
any other depository or nominee will be deemed to be the holders of the Rights
that are issued to Cede or such other depository or nominee on their behalf.
There is no minimum number of Rights which must be exercised in order for
the Offer to close.
The first regular monthly dividend to be paid on Shares acquired upon
exercise of Rights will be the first monthly dividend, the record date for which
occurs after the issuance of the Shares following the Expiration Date. It is the
Fund's present policy to pay dividends on the last Business Day of each month to
shareholders of record seven days prior to the payment date. Assuming the
Subscription Period is not extended, it is expected that the first dividend
received by shareholders acquiring Shares in the Offer will be paid on the last
Business Day of February, 1998.
OVER-SUBSCRIPTION PRIVILEGE
Shares not subscribed for by Exercising Rights Holders (the "Excess Shares")
will be offered, by means of the Over-Subscription Privilege, to the Record Date
Shareholders who have exercised all exercisable Rights issued to them (other
than those Rights which cannot be exercised because they represent the right to
acquire less than one Share) and who wish to acquire more than the number of
Shares for which the Rights issued to them are exercisable. Record Date
Shareholders should indicate, on the Subscription Certificate which they submit
with respect to the exercise of the Rights issued to them, how many Excess
Shares they are willing to acquire pursuant to the Over-Subscription Privilege.
If sufficient Excess Shares remain, all Record Date Shareholders
over-subscription requests will be honored in full. If Record Date Shareholder
requests for Shares pursuant to the over-subscription Privilege exceed the
Excess Shares available, the available Excess Shares will be allocated pro rata
among Record Date Shareholders who oversubscribe based on the number of Rights
originally issued to such Record Date Shareholders.
If subscriptions for Excess Shares exceed the Excess Shares available, the
available Excess Shares will be allocated pro rata among Record Date
Shareholders being prorated, based on the number of Shares such Record Date
Shareholders subscribed for in the Primary Subscription relative to the
aggregate number of Shares subscribed for in the Primary Subscription by all
such Record Date Shareholders then being prorated.
Banks, brokers, trustees and other nominee holders of Rights will be
required to certify to the Subscription Agent (as defined herein), before any
Over-Subscription Privilege may be exercised with respect to any particular
beneficial owner, as to the aggregate number of Rights exercised pursuant to the
Primary Subscription and the number of Shares subscribed for pursuant to the
Over-Subscription Privilege by such beneficial owner and that such beneficial
owner's Primary Subscription was exercised in full. Nominee Holder
Over-Subscription Forms and Beneficial Owner Certification Forms will be
distributed to banks, brokers, trustees and other nominee holders with the
Subscription Certificates.
The Fund will not offer or sell in connection with the Offer any Shares that
are not subscribed for pursuant to the Primary Subscription or the
Over-Subscription Privilege.
SUBSCRIPTION PRICE
The Subscription Price for the Shares to be issued pursuant to the Offer
will be $3.80.
The Fund announced the Offer after the close of trading on the Exchange on
November 21, 1997. The net asset value per share of Common Stock at the close of
business on November 21, 1997 (the last trading date on which the Fund publicly
reported its net asset value prior to the announcement) and on December 19, 1997
was $3.97 and $3.98 respectively, and the last reported sales price of a share
of the Fund's Common Stock on the Exchange on those dates was $4.3125 and
$4.4375, respectively.
EXPIRATION OF THE OFFER
The Offer will expire at 5:00 P.M., New York City time, on January 23, 1998,
unless extended by the Fund. The Rights will expire on the Expiration Date and
thereafter may not be exercised. Any extension of the Offer will be followed as
promptly as practicable by announcement thereof. Such announcement will be
issued no later than 9:00 A.M., New York City time, on the next Business Day
following the previously scheduled Expiration Date. Without limiting the manner
in which the Fund may choose to make such announcement, the Fund will not,
unless otherwise required by law, have any obligation to publish, advertise or
otherwise communicate any such announcement other than by making a release to
the Dow Jones News Service or such other means of announcement as the Fund deems
appropriate.
SUBSCRIPTION AGENT
The subscription agent is State Street Bank and Trust Company (the
"Subscription Agent"). The Subscription Agent will receive for its
administrative, processing, invoicing and other services as subscription agent,
a fee estimated to be approximately $30,000 which includes reimbursement for all
out-of-pocket expenses related to the Offer. The Subscription Agent is also the
Fund's transfer agent, dividend-paying agent and registrar for the Common Stock.
Questions regarding the Subscription Certificates should be directed to State
Street Bank and Trust Company, 150 Royall Street, Canton, Massachusetts 02021
U.S.A. (800) 426-5523 (toll free); shareholders may also consult their brokers
or nominees. Completed Subscription Certificates must be sent together with
proper payment of the Subscription Price for all Shares subscribed for in the
Primary Subscription and the Over-Subscription Privilege (for Record Date
Shareholders) to State Street Bank and Trust Company by one of the methods
described below. Alternatively, Notices of Guaranteed Delivery may be sent by
facsimile to (781) 794-6333 (note that the area code is currently being changed
from 617 to 781) to be received by the Subscription Agent prior to 5:00 P.M.,
New York City time, on the Expiration Date. Facsimiles should be confirmed by
telephone at (781) 794-6388 (note that the area code is currently being changed
from 617 to 781). The Fund will accept only properly completed and executed
Subscription Certificates actually received at any of the addresses listed
below, prior to 5:00 P.M., New York City time, on the Expiration Date or by the
close of business on the third Business Day after the Expiration Date following
timely receipt of a Notice of Guaranteed Delivery. See "Payment for Shares"
below.
(1) BY FIRST CLASS MAIL:
State Street Bank and Trust Company
Corporate Reorganization
P.O. Box 9061
Boston, Massachusetts 02205-8686
U.S.A.
(2) BY OVERNIGHT COURIER:
State Street Bank and Trust Company
Corporate Reorganization
c/o Boston EquiServe
70 Campanelli Drive
Braintree, Massachusetts 02184
U.S.A.
(3) BY HAND:
Bank of Boston
c/o Boston EquiServe
Corporate Reorganization
55 Broadway -- 3rd Floor
New York, New York 10006
U.S.A.
DELIVERY TO AN ADDRESS OTHER THAN ONE OF THE ADDRESSES LISTED ABOVE WILL NOT
CONSTITUTE VALID DELIVERY.
METHOD FOR EXERCISING RIGHTS
Rights are evidenced by Subscription Certificates that, except as described
below under "Foreign Restrictions," will be mailed to Record Date Shareholders
or, if a shareholder's shares of Common Stock are held by Cede or any other
depository or nominee on their behalf, to Cede or such depository or nominee.
Rights may be exercised by completing and signing the Subscription Certificate
that accompanies this Prospectus and mailing it in the envelope provided, or
otherwise delivering the completed and signed Subscription Certificate to the
Subscription Agent, together with payment in full for the Shares at the
Subscription Price by the Expiration Date. Rights may also be exercised by
contacting your broker, banker or trust company, which can arrange, on your
behalf, to guarantee delivery of payment and delivery of a properly completed
and executed Subscription Certificate pursuant to a Notice of Guaranteed
Delivery by the close of business on January 28, 1998, the third Business day
after the Expiration Date. A fee may be charged for this service. Fractional
shares will not be issued upon the exercise of Rights. Record Date Shareholders
issued fewer than three Rights are entitled to subscribe for one Share pursuant
to the Primary Subscription. Completed Subscripiton Certificates must be
received by the Subscription Agent prior to 5:00 P.M., New York City time, on
the Expiration Date at one of the addresses set forth above (unless the
guaranteed delivery procedures are complied with as described below under
"Payment for Shares").
Shareholders Who Are Record Owners. Shareholders who are record owners can
choose between either option to exercise their Rights as described below under
"Payment for Shares." If time is of the essence, option (2) under "Payment for
Shares" below will permit delivery of the Subscription Certificate and payment
after the Expiration Date.
Shareholders Whose Shares Are Held by a Nominee. Shareholders whose shares
are held by a nominee, such as a bank, broker or trustee, must contact that
nominee to exercise their Rights. In such case, the nominee will complete the
Subscription Certificate on behalf of the shareholder and arrange for proper
payment by one of the methods described below under "Payment for Shares."
Nominees. Nominees who hold shares of Common Stock for the account of others
should notify the beneficial owners of such shares as soon as possible to
ascertain such beneficial owners' intentions and to obtain instructions with
respect to the Rights. If the beneficial owner so instructs, the nominee should
complete the Subscription Certificate and submit it to the Subscription Agent
with the proper payment as described below under "Payment for Shares."
INFORMATION AGENT
Any questions or requests for assistance concerning the method of
subscribing for Shares or for additional copies of this Prospectus or
Subscription Certificates or Notices of Guaranteed Delivery may be directed to
the Information Agent at its telephone number and address listed below:
Corporate Investor Communications, Inc.
111 Commerce Road
Carlstadt, New Jersey 07072-2586
Toll Free: (800) 633-1822
Shareholders may also contact their brokers or nominees for information with
respect to the Offer. The Information Agent will receive a fee estimated to be
$36,000 which includes reimbursement for its out-of-pocket expenses related to
the Offer.
PAYMENT FOR SHARES
Shareholders who wish to acquire Shares pursuant to the Offer may choose
between the following methods of payment:
(1) An Exercising Rights Holder may send the Subscription Certificate
together with payment for the Shares acquired in the Primary Subscription
and any additional Shares subscribed for pursuant to the Over-Subscription
Privilege (for Record Date Shareholders) to the Subscription Agent based on
the Subscription Price of $3.80 per share. A subscription will be accepted
when payment, together with a properly completed and executed Subscription
Certificate, is received by the Subscription Agent's office at one of the
addresses set forth above no later than 5:00 P.M., New York City time, on
the Expiration Date. The Subscription Agent will deposit all checks and
money orders received by it for the purchase of Shares into a segregated
interest-bearing account (the interest from which will accrue to the benefit
of the Fund) pending proration and distribution of Shares. A PAYMENT
PURSUANT TO THIS METHOD MUST BE IN U.S. DOLLARS BY MONEY ORDER OR CHECK
DRAWN ON A BANK OR BRANCH LOCATED IN THE UNITED STATES, MUST BE PAYABLE TO
PROSPECT STREET HIGH INCOME PORTFOLIO INC. AND MUST ACCOMPANY A PROPERLY
COMPLETED AND EXECUTED SUBSCRIPTION CERTIFICATE FOR SUCH SUBSCRIPTION
CERTIFICATE TO BE ACCEPTED. EXERCISE BY THIS METHOD IS SUBJECT TO ACTUAL
COLLECTION OF CHECKS BY 5:00 P.M., NEW YORK CITY TIME, ON THE EXPIRATION
DATE. BECAUSE UNCERTIFIED PERSONAL CHECKS MAY TAKE AT LEAST FIVE BUSINESS
DAYS TO CLEAR, SHAREHOLDERS ARE STRONGLY URGED TO PAY, OR ARRANGE FOR
PAYMENT, BY MEANS OF A CERTIFIED OR CASHIER'S CHECK OR MONEY ORDER.
(2) Alternatively, an Exercising Rights Holder may acquire shares, and a
subscription will be accepted by the Subscription Agent if, prior to 5:00
P.M., New York City time, on the Expiration Date, the Subscription Agent has
received a Notice of Guaranteed Delivery by facsimile (telecopy) or
otherwise from a financial institution that is a member of the Securities
Transfer Agents Medallion Program, the Stock Exchange Medallion Program or
the New York Stock Exchange Medallion Signature Program guaranteeing
delivery of (i) payment of the Subscription Price of $3.80 per share for the
Shares subscribed for in the Primary Subscription and any additional Shares
subscribed for pursuant to the Over-Subscription Privilege (for Record Date
Shareholders), and (ii) a properly completed and executed Subscription
Certificate. The Subscription Agent will not honor a Notice of Guaranteed
Delivery unless a properly completed and executed Subscription Certificate
and full payment for the Shares is received by the Subscription Agent by the
close of business on January 28, 1998, the third Business Day after the
Expiration Date.
On a date within eight Business Days following the Expiration Date (the
"Confirmation Date"), the Subscription Agent will send to each Exercising Rights
Holder (or, if shares are held by Cede or any other depository or nominee, to
Cede or such other depository or nominee) a confirmation showing (i) the number
of Shares purchased pursuant to the Primary Subscription and (ii) the number of
Shares, if any, acquired pursuant to the Over-Subscription Privilege (for Record
Date Shareholders). All payments by an Exercising Rights Holder must be in U.S.
dollars by money order or check drawn on a bank or branch located in the United
States and payable to PROSPECT STREET HIGH INCOME PORTFOLIO INC.
The Subscription Agent will deposit all checks received by it prior to the
final payment date into a segregated interest-bearing account (which interest
will accrue to the benefit of the Fund) pending proration and distribution of
the Shares.
WHICHEVER OF THE TWO METHODS DESCRIBED ABOVE IS USED, ISSUANCE OF THE SHARES
PURCHASED IS SUBJECT TO COLLECTION OF CHECKS AND ACTUAL PAYMENT. IF A HOLDER OF
RIGHTS WHO SUBSCRIBES FOR SHARES PURSUANT TO THE PRIMARY SUBSCRIPTION OR
OVER-SUBSCRIPTION PRIVILEGE (FOR RECORD DATE SHAREHOLDERS) DOES NOT MAKE PAYMENT
OF ANY AMOUNTS DUE BY THE TENTH BUSINESS DAY AFTER THE CONFIRMATION DATE, THE
SUBSCRIPTION AGENT RESERVES THE RIGHT TO TAKE ANY OR ALL OF THE FOLLOWING
ACTIONS: (i) FIND OTHER RECORD DATE SHAREHOLDERS FOR SUCH SUBSCRIBED AND UNPAID
FOR SHARES; (II) APPLY ANY PAYMENT ACTUALLY RECEIVED BY IT TOWARD THE PURCHASE
OF THE GREATEST WHOLE NUMBER OF SHARES WHICH COULD BE ACQUIRED BY SUCH HOLDER
UPON EXERCISE OF THE PRIMARY SUBSCRIPTION AND/OR OVER-SUBSCRIPTION PRIVILEGE,
AND/OR (III) EXERCISE ANY AND ALL OTHER RIGHTS OR REMEDIES TO WHICH IT MAY BE
ENTITLED, INCLUDING, WITHOUT LIMITATION, THE RIGHT TO SET OFF AGAINST PAYMENTS
ACTUALLY RECEIVED BY IT WITH RESPECT TO SUCH SUBSCRIBED SHARES.
THE METHOD OF DELIVERY OF SUBSCRIPTION CERTIFICATES AND PAYMENT OF THE
SUBSCRIPTION PRICE TO THE FUND WILL BE AT THE ELECTION AND RISK OF THE
EXERCISING RIGHTS HOLDERS, BUT IF SENT BY MAIL IT IS RECOMMENDED THAT SUCH
CERTIFICATES AND PAYMENTS BE SENT BY REGISTERED MAIL, PROPERLY INSURED, WITH
RETURN RECEIPT REQUESTED, AND THAT A SUFFICIENT NUMBER OF DAYS BE ALLOWED TO
ENSURE DELIVERY TO THE SUBSCRIPTION AGENT AND CLEARANCE OF PAYMENT PRIOR TO 5:00
P.M., NEW YORK CITY TIME, ON THE EXPIRATION DATE. BECAUSE UNCERTIFIED PERSONAL
CHECKS MAY TAKE AT LEAST FIVE BUSINESS DAYS TO CLEAR, YOU ARE STRONGLY URGED TO
PAY, OR ARRANGE FOR PAYMENT, BY MEANS OF CERTIFIED OR CASHIER'S CHECK OR MONEY
ORDER.
All questions concerning the timeliness, validity, form and eligibility of
any exercise of Rights will be determined by the Fund, whose determinations will
be final and binding. The Fund in its sole discretion may waive any defect or
irregularity, or permit a defect or irregularity to be corrected within such
time as it may determine, or reject the purported exercise of any Right.
Subscriptions will not be deemed to have been received or accepted until all
irregularities have been waived or cured within such time as the Subscription
Agent determines in its sole discretion. The Subscription Agent will not be
under any duty to give notification of any defect or irregularity in connection
with the submission of Subscription Certificates or incur any liability for
failure to give such notification.
EXERCISING RIGHTS HOLDERS WILL HAVE NO RIGHT TO RESCIND THEIR SUBSCRIPTION
AFTER RECEIPT OF THEIR PAYMENT FOR SHARES BY THE SUBSCRIPTION AGENT, EXCEPT AS
PROVIDED BELOW UNDER "NOTICE OF NET ASSET VALUE DECLINE."
SALE OF RIGHTS
The Rights are transferable until the Expiration Date. The Rights will be
listed on the Exchange, subject to notice of issuance. The Fund will use its
best efforts to ensure that an adequate trading market for the rights will
exist, although no assurance can be given that a market for the Rights will
develop. Trading in the Rights on the Exchange may be conducted until the close
of trading on the Exchange on January 22, 1998, the last Business Day prior to
the Expiration Date.
Sales through Subscription Agent and Dealer Managers. Record Date
Shareholders who do not wish to exercise any or all of their Rights may instruct
the Subscription Agent to sell any unexercised Rights through or to the Dealer
Managers. Subscription Certificates representing the Rights to be sold by or to
the Dealer Managers must be received by the Subscription Agent on or before
January 21, 1998 (or if the Offer is extended, until two Business Days prior to
the Expiration Date). Upon the timely receipt by the Subscription Agent of
appropriate instructions to sell Rights, the Subscription Agent will request the
Dealer Managers either to purchase or to use their best efforts to complete the
sale and the Subscription Agent will remit the proceeds of sale, net of
commissions, to the Record Date Shareholders. Any commissions on sales of Rights
will be paid by the selling Record Date Shareholders. If the Rights can be sold,
sales of such Rights will be deemed to have been effected at the
weighted-average price received by the Dealer Managers on the day such Rights
are sold. The sale price of any Rights sold to the Dealer Managers will be based
upon the then current market price for the Rights, less amounts comparable to
the usual and customary brokerage fees. The Dealer Managers will also attempt to
sell all Rights which remain unclaimed as a result of Subscription Certificates
being returned by the postal authorities to the Subscription Agent as
undeliverable as of the fourth Business Day prior to the Expiration Date. Such
sales will be made net of commissions on behalf of the nonclaiming Record Date
Shareholders. The Subscription Agent will hold the proceeds from those sales for
the benefit of such nonclaiming Record Date Shareholders until such proceeds are
either claimed or escheat. There can be no assurance that the Dealer Managers
will purchase or be able to complete the sale of any such Rights and neither the
Fund nor the Dealer Managers has guaranteed any minimum sales price for the
Rights.
Other Transfers. The Rights evidenced by a Subscription Certificate may be
transferred in whole by endorsing the Subscription Certificate for transfer in
accordance with the accompanying instructions. A portion of the Rights evidenced
by a single Subscription Certificate (but not fractional Rights) may be
transferred by delivering to the Subscription Agent a Subscription Certificate
properly endorsed for transfer, with instructions to register such portion of
the Rights evidenced thereby in the name of the transferee and to issue a new
Subscription Certificate to the transferee evidencing such transferred Rights.
In such event, a new Subscription Certificate evidencing the balance of the
Rights, if any, will be issued to the Record Date Shareholder or, if the Record
Date Shareholder so instructs, to an additional transferee. The signature on the
Subscription Certificate must correspond with the name as written upon the face
of the Subscription Certificate in every particular, without alteration or
enlargement, or any change whatever. A signature guarantee must be provided by
an eligible financial institution as defined in Rule 17Ad-15 of the Securities
Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act"), subject to the standards and
procedures adopted by the Fund.
Record Date Shareholders wishing to transfer all or a portion of their
Rights should allow at least five Business Days prior to the Expiration Date for
(i) the transfer instructions to be received and processed by the Subscription
Agent; (ii) a new Subscription Certificate to be issued and transmitted to the
transferee or transferees with respect to transferred Rights, and to the
transferor with respect to retained Rights, if any; and (iii) the Rights
evidenced by such new Subscription Certificate to be exercised or sold by the
recipients thereof. Neither the Fund nor the Subscription Agent nor the Dealer
Managers shall have any liability to a transferee or transferor of Rights if
Subscription Certificates are not received in time for exercise or sale prior to
the Expiration Date.
Except for the fees charged by the Subscription Agent and Dealer Managers
(which will be paid by the Fund), all commissions, fees and other expenses
(including brokerage commissions and transfer taxes) incurred or charged in
connection with the purchase, sale or exercise of Rights will be for the account
of the transferor of the Rights, and none of such commissions, fees or expenses
will be paid by the Fund, the Subscription Agent or the Dealer Managers.
The Fund anticipates that the Rights will be eligible for transfer through,
and that the exercise of the Primary Subscription (but not the Over-Subscription
Privilege) may be effected through, the facilities of The Depository Trust
Company ("DTC"; Rights exercised through DTC are referred to as "DTC Exercised
Rights"). Record Date Shareholders of DTC Exercised Rights may exercise the
Over-Subscription Privilege in respect of such DTC Exercised Rights by properly
executing and delivering to the Subscription Agent, at or prior to 5:00 p.m.,
New York City time, on the Expiration Date, a Nominee Holder Over-Subscription
Exercise Form or a substantially similar form satisfactory to the Subscription
Agent, together with payment of the Subscription Price for the number of Shares
for which the Over-Subscription Privilege is to be exercised.
DISTRIBUTION ARRANGEMENTS
PaineWebber Incorporated, 1285 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York,
and Tucker Anthony Incorporated, One Beacon Street, Boston, Massachusetts, each
of whom is a broker-dealer and member of the National Association of Securities
Dealers, Inc., will act as the Dealer Managers for the Offer. Under the terms
and subject to the conditions contained in the Dealer Manager Agreement dated
the date hereof (the "Dealer Manager Agreement"), the Dealer Managers will
provide financial advisory and marketing services in connection with the Offer
and will solicit the exercise of Rights and participation in the
Over-Subscription Privilege. The Offer is not contingent upon any number of
Rights being exercised. The Fund has agreed to pay the Dealer Managers a fee for
their financial advisory, marketing and soliciting services equal to 3.75% of
the aggregate Subscription Price for Shares issued pursuant to the Offer. The
Dealer Managers will reallow to Selling Group Members, solicitation fees equal
to 2.50% of the Subscription Price per Share for each Share issued pursuant to
the Offer as a result of their soliciting efforts. In addition, the Dealer
Managers will reallow to other broker-dealers that have executed and delivered a
soliciting dealer agreement and have solicited the exercise of Rights,
solicitation fees equal to 0.50% of the Subscription Price per Share for each
Share issued pursuant to the exercise of Rights as a result of their soliciting
efforts, subject to a maximum fee based upon the number of shares of Common
Stock held by each broker-dealer through DTC on the Record Date. Fees will be
paid to the broker-dealer designated on the applicable portion of the
Subscription Certificates or, in the absence of such designation, to the Dealer
Managers.
In addition, the Fund may reimburse the Dealer Managers up to an aggregate
of $100,000 for their reasonable expenses incurred in connection with the Offer.
The Fund and the Investment Adviser have each agreed to indemnify the Dealer
Managers or contribute to losses arising out of certain liabilities including
liabilities under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "Securities Act").
The Dealer Manager Agreement also provides that the Dealer Managers will not be
subject to any liability to the Fund in rendering the services contemplated by
such Agreement except for any act of bad faith, willful misconduct or gross
negligence of the Dealer Managers or reckless disregard by the Dealer Managers
of their obligations and duties under such Agreement.
The Fund has agreed not to offer or sell, or enter into any agreement to
sell, any equity or equity related securities of the Fund or securities
convertible into such securities for a period of 180 days after the date of the
Dealer Manager Agreement, except for the Shares and Common Stock issued in
reinvestment of dividends or distributions or other limited circumstances.
DELIVERY OF SHARE CERTIFICATES
Certificates representing Shares acquired in the Primary Subscription and
representing Shares acquired pursuant to the Over-Subscription Privilege will be
mailed promptly after the expiration of the Offer once full payment for such
Shares has been received and cleared. Participants in the Fund's Dividend
Reinvestment Plan (the "Plan") will have any Shares acquired in the Primary
Subscription and pursuant to the Over-Subscription Privilege credited to their
shareholder dividend reinvestment accounts in the Plan. Participants in the Plan
wishing to exercise Rights for the shares of Common Stock held in their accounts
in the Plan must exercise such Rights in accordance with the procedures set
forth above. Shareholders whose shares of Common Stock are held of record by
Cede or by any other depository or nominee on their behalf or their
broker-dealer's behalf will have any Shares acquired in the Primary Subscription
credited to the account of Cede or such other depository or nominee. Shares
acquired pursuant to the Over-Subscription Privilege will be certificated and
certificates representing such Shares will be sent directly to Cede or such
other depository or nominee. Stock certificates will not be issued for Shares
credited to Plan accounts.
FOREIGN SHAREHOLDERS
Subscription Certificates will not be mailed to Record Date Shareholders
whose record addresses are outside the United States (the term "United States"
includes the states, the District of Columbia, and the territories and
possessions of the United States) ("Foreign Record Date Shareholders"). Foreign
Record Date Shareholders will receive written notice of the Offer. The Rights to
which such Subscription Certificates relate will be held by the Subscription
Agent for such Foreign Record Date Shareholders' accounts until instructions are
received to exercise the Rights. If no instructions have been received by 5:00
P.M., New York City time on January 20, 1998, three business days prior to the
Expiration Date, the Rights of those Foreign Record Date Shareholders will be
transferred by the Subscription Agent to the Dealer Managers who will either
purchase the rights or use their best efforts to sell the Rights. The net
proceeds, if any, from the sale of those Rights by or to the Dealer Managers
will be remitted to Foreign Record Date Shareholders.
FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE OFFER
The U.S. federal income tax consequences to holders of Common Stock with
respect to the Offer will be as follows:
1. The distribution of Rights to Record Date Shareholders will not
result in taxable income to such holders nor will such holders realize
taxable income as a result of the exercise of the Rights. No loss will be
realized if the Rights expire without exercise.
2. The basis of a Right will be (a) to a holder of Common Stock to whom
it is issued and who exercises the Right (i) if the fair market value of the
Right immediately after issuance is less than 15% of the fair market value
of the Common Stock with regard to which it is issued, zero (unless the
holder elects, by filing a statement with his timely filed federal income
tax return for the year in which the Rights are received, to allocate the
basis of the Common Stock between the Right and the Common Stock based on
their respective fair market values immediately after the Right is issued),
and (ii) if the fair market value of the Right immediately after issuance is
15% or more of the fair market value of the Common Stock with regard to
which it is issued, a portion of the basis in the Common Stock based upon
their respective fair market values immediately after the Right is issued,
and (b) to a holder of Common Stock to whom it is issued and who allows the
Right to expire, zero.
3. The holding period of a Right received by a Record Date Shareholder
includes the holding period of the Common Stock with regard to which the
Right is issued. If the Right is exercised, the holding period of the Common
Stock acquired begins on the date the Right is exercised.
4. A Record Date Shareholder's basis for determining gain or loss upon
the sale of a Share acquired upon the exercise of a Right will be equal to
the sum of the Record Date Shareholder's basis in the Right, if any, and the
Subscription Price per Share. A Record Date Shareholder's gain or loss
recognized upon a sale of a Share acquired upon the exercise of a Right will
be capital gain or loss if the Share was held at the time of sale as a
capital asset and will be long-term capital gain or loss if the Share is
held for more than one year. See "Federal Taxation -- Federal Income Tax
Treatment of Holders of Common Stock" for a summary of the capital gains
rates applicable to capital gains or losses recognized upon the sale of
Shares.
The Fund is required to withhold and remit to the U.S. Treasury 31% of
reportable payments paid on an account if the holder of the account provides the
Fund with either an incorrect taxpayer identification number or no number at
all, or fails to certify that he is not subject to such withholding.
The foregoing is a general summary of the material U.S. federal income tax
consequences of the Offer under the provisions of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code
of 1986, as amended (the "Internal Revenue Code"), and Treasury regulations
presently in effect that are generally applicable to Record Date Shareholders
that are United States persons within the meaning of the Internal Revenue Code
and any other person who would be subject to U.S. federal income tax upon the
sale or exchange of the Common Stock acquired upon the exercise of the Rights,
and does not cover foreign, state or local taxes. The Internal Revenue Code and
such regulations are subject to change by legislative or administrative action,
which may be retroactive. Exercising Rights Holders should consult their tax
advisers regarding specific questions as to foreign, federal, state or local
taxes. See "Federal Taxation."
NOTICE OF NET ASSET VALUE DECLINE
The Fund has, as required by the SEC's registration form, undertaken to
suspend the Offer until it amends this Prospectus if, subsequent to the
effective date of the Fund's Registration Statement, the Fund's net asset value
declines more than 10% from its net asset value as of that date. Accordingly,
the Expiration Date would be extended and the Fund would notify Record Date
Shareholders of any such decline and permit Exercising Rights Holders to cancel
their exercise of Rights.
EMPLOYEE PLAN CONSIDERATIONS
Shareholders who are employee benefit plans subject to the Employee
Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as amended ("ERISA") (including
corporate savings and 401(k) plans), Keogh or H.R. 10 plans of self-employed
individuals and individual retirement accounts (collectively, "Retirement
Plans") should be aware that additional contributions of cash to the Retirement
Plan (other than rollover contributions or trustee-to-trustee transfers from
other Retirement Plans) in order to exercise Rights would be treated as
contributions to the Retirement Plan and, when taken together with contributions
previously made, may result in, among other things, excise taxes for excess or
nondeductible contributions. In the case of Retirement Plans qualified under
Section 401(a) of the Internal Revenue Code and certain other Retirement Plans,
additional cash contributions could cause the maximum contribution limitations
of Section 415 of the Internal Revenue Code or other qualification rules to be
violated. It may also be a reportable distribution and there may be other
adverse tax and ERISA consequences if Rights are sold or transferred by a
Retirement Plan.
Retirement Plans and other tax exempt entities, including governmental
plans, should also be aware that if they borrow in order to finance their
exercise of Rights, they may become subject to the tax on unrelated business
taxable income ("UBTI") under Section 511 of the Internal Revenue Code. If any
portion of an Individual Retirement Account ("IRA") is used as security for a
loan, the portion so used is also treated as distributed to the IRA depositor.
ERISA contains fiduciary responsibility requirements, and ERISA and the
Internal Revenue Code contain prohibited transaction rules that may impact the
exercise of Rights. Due to the complexity of these rules and the penalties for
noncompliance, Retirement Plans should consult with their counsel and other
advisors regarding the consequences of their exercise of Rights under ERISA and
the Internal Revenue Code.
IMPORTANT DATES TO REMEMBER
EVENT DATE
- ----- -----
Record Date ............................................ December 24, 1997
Subscription Period .................................... December 29, 1997
to January 23, 1998
Expiration Date ........................................ January 23, 1998*
Subscription Certificates and Payment for Shares Due+ .. January 23, 1998*
Notice of Guaranteed Delivery Due+ ..................... January 23, 1998*
Payment for Guarantees of Delivery Due ................. January 28, 1998*
Confirmation to Participants ........................... February 4, 1998*
- ------------
* Unless the Offer is extended.
+ A shareholder exercising Rights must deliver either (i) a Subscription
Certificate and payment for Shares or (ii) a Notice of Guaranteed Delivery by
January 23, 1998.
USE OF PROCEEDS
If all the Rights are exercised in full at the Subscription Price of $3.80
per Share, the net proceeds of the Offer to the Fund assuming all 14,742,608
shares offered hereby are sold are estimated to be approximately $53,455,000,
after deducting offering expenses payable by the Fund estimated at approximately
$466,000. The Investment Adviser anticipates that investment of such proceeds in
accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies will take up to
thirty days from their receipt by the Fund, depending on market conditions and
the availability of appropriate securities for purchase, but in no event will
such investment take longer than six months. Pending such investment in
accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies, the proceeds will
be held in U.S. Government securities (which term includes obligations of the
United States Government, its agencies or instrumentalities) and other
high-quality short-term money market instruments.
INVESTMENT POLICIES AND LIMITATIONS
The investment objective of the Fund is to provide high current income,
while seeking to preserve shareholders' capital, through investment in a
professionally managed, diversified portfolio of "high-yield," high risk
securities (commonly referred to as "junk bonds").
The Fund seeks to achieve its objective of preserving shareholders' capital
through a careful selection process for the Fund's "high-yield," high risk
investments which focuses on each issuer's financial condition and projected
ability to service its debt obligations, portfolio diversification which is
intended to minimize the impact of individual issuer defaults and adverse
economic conditions affecting particular issuers and industry segments, and
close monitoring of portfolio investments and economic developments in order to
reposition the Fund's portfolio in anticipation of negative developments which
the Investment Adviser believes are likely to occur. Given the high risk nature
and price volatility of the Fund's investments as well as the Fund's leverage,
however, it may be extremely difficult to achieve this objective on a consistent
basis in the future. In the severe adverse interest rate and economic
environment of 1989 and 1990, the Fund suffered a substantial decline in its net
asset value as a result of these factors and thus failed to achieve this
objective during that period.
During the sharp "high-yield" market decline of 1989 and 1990, the Fund's
leverage contributed to a sharp decline in the net asset value of the Common
Stock. In order to remain in compliance with the 200% asset coverage ratio
required by the 1940 Act, the Fund was required to repurchase $45.0 million of
the $50.0 million of previously outstanding Senior Extendible Notes. Also, to
maintain compliance with the Fund's Surety Investment Guidelines the Fund was
required to sell "high-yield" assets. The selling of "high-yield" assets below
their original cost and the retirement of $45.0 million of the Fund's Senior
Extendible Notes resulted in a reduction of the Fund's total assets and caused
the Fund to realize substantial capital losses. The Surety Investment Guidelines
and the asset coverage ratio requirements combined to delay the Fund's
reinvestment of cash into "high-yield" securities as the market improved. The
Fund's use of leverage is currently benefitting the holders of Common Stock as
the current average cost of funds (pursuant to its Preferred Shares and Notes
obligations) was approximately 6.08% as of October 31, 1997 while the
"high-yield" market currently offers interest income at annualized rates of
approximately 10.0% to 12.0%. There is no assurance that the Fund's investment
objective will be attained in the future.
The Fund's investment objective is a fundamental policy. Pursuant to the
1940 Act, fundamental policies may not be changed without the affirmative vote
of the holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Common Stock and a
majority of the outstanding Preferred Shares, voting as separate classes, which,
for purposes of the 1940 Act, means for each class the lesser of (a) more than
50% of the outstanding shares of such class or (b) 67% or more of the shares of
such class present or represented at a meeting at which more than 50% of the
outstanding shares of such class are present or represented by proxy.
Accordingly, no change in the Fund's investment objective could occur without
the affirmative vote of both classes of stock.
INVESTMENT STRATEGY
It is the Fund's policy that under normal market conditions, at least 65% of
its total assets will be invested in "high-yield," high risk securities rated in
the lower categories by recognized rating agencies or nonrated fixed-income
securities deemed by the Investment Adviser to be of comparable quality,
although the Fund has invested and currently intends to continue to invest a
substantially higher percentage of its assets in such securities to the extent
permitted by market conditions. The Fund's portfolio investments have consisted
and will continue to consist principally of fixed-income securities rated
"BB"/"Ba" or lower by the Rating Agencies. The Fund reserves the right, under
normal market conditions, to invest up to 35% of its total assets in money
market instruments and fixed-income securities rated higher than "BB"/"Ba,"
although the percentage invested in such securities may increase under other
than normal market conditions, as discussed below.
The credit ratings of all bonds held by the Fund at October 31, 1997 are set
forth below. This information reflects the composition of the Fund's assets at
October 31, 1997 and is not necessarily representative of the Fund as of the
current fiscal year or at any other time in the future.
RATED BY
MOODY'S
--------
Ba ................................................ 0.25%
B ................................................. 57.44%
Caa ............................................... 14.68%
NR ................................................ 21.85%
-----
Total ......................................... 94.22%
Under the Investment Guidelines, certain types of securities in which the
Fund may otherwise invest pursuant to the foregoing strategy and the investment
policies stated below are not eligible for inclusion in the calculation of the
discounted value of the Fund's portfolio. Such instruments include, for example,
securities rated "CC"/"Ca" and "C"/"C" by the Rating Agencies, preferred or
common stock, zero coupon or similar securities that do not provide for the
periodic payment of interest in cash and other securities not within the
Investment Guidelines. Accordingly, although the Fund reserves the right to
invest in such securities to the extent set forth herein, they have not and it
is anticipated that they will not constitute a significant portion of the Fund's
portfolio. See "Investment Guidelines" below, "Description of Notes -- Asset
Maintenance" and "Surety Arrangement for Preferred Shares -- Insurance
Agreement."
"High-yield" bonds, the generic name for corporate bonds rated between
"BB"/"Ba" and "C"/"C" by the Rating Agencies, are frequently issued by
corporations in the growth stage of their development. Bonds which are rated
"BB"/"Ba," "B"/"B," "CCC"/"Caa," "CC"/"Ca" and "C"/"C" are regarded by the
Rating Agencies, on balance, as predominantly speculative with respect to
capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the
obligation. Such securities are also generally considered to be subject to
greater risk than securities with higher ratings with regard to a deterioration
of general economic conditions. Further information concerning the ratings of
corporate bonds, including the rating categories of the Rating Agencies, is
provided in Appendix A. "High-yield" securities held by the Fund may include
securities received as a result of a corporate reorganization or issued as part
of a corporate takeover. Securities issued to finance corporate restructurings
may have special credit risks due to the highly leveraged conditions of the
issuers, and such securities are usually subordinate to securities subsequently
issued by the issuer. In addition, such issuers may lose experienced management
as a result of the restructurings. Finally, the market price of such securities
may be more volatile to the extent that expected benefits from restructuring do
not materialize.
Securities acquired by the Fund may include preferred stocks (including
convertible preferred stocks) and all types of debt obligations having varying
terms with respect to security or credit support, subordination, purchase price,
interest payments and maturity. Such obligations may include, for example,
bonds, debentures, notes (including convertible debt securities), mortgage or
other asset-backed instruments, equipment lease certificates, equipment trust
certificates, conditional sales contracts, commercial paper and obligations
issued or guaranteed by the United States government or any of its political
subdivisions, agencies or instrumentalities (including obligations, such as
repurchase agreements, secured by such instruments). Most debt securities in
which the Fund will invest will bear interest at fixed rates. However, the Fund
reserves the right to invest without limitation in fixed-income debt securities
that have variable rates of interest or involve equity features, such as
contingent interest or participations based on revenues, sales or profits (i.e.,
interest or other payments, often in addition to a fixed rate of return, that
are based on the borrower's attainment of specified levels of revenues, sales or
profits and thus enable the holder of the security to share in the potential
success of the venture). The Fund also has the right to acquire common stock or
warrants to purchase common stock or other equity securities as part of a unit
in connection with the purchase of debt securities consistent with the Fund's
investment policies.
The Fund may invest up to 30% of its total assets in securities that are not
readily marketable, including securities restricted as to resale, and nonrated
securities. A security that is not readily marketable will not be acquired
unless (i) the Investment Adviser believes such security to be of comparable
quality to publicly traded securities and (ii) such security carries rights to
be registered under the federal securities laws. Securities that are not readily
marketable may offer higher yields than comparable publicly traded securities.
However, the Fund may not be able to sell these securities when the Investment
Adviser considers it desirable to do so or, to the extent they are sold
privately, may have to sell them at less than the price of otherwise comparable
securities.
The Fund may also be permitted to invest up to 20% of its total assets in
zero coupon securities. Zero coupon securities pay no cash income but are
purchased at a deep discount from their value at maturity. When held to
maturity, their entire return, which consists of the amortization of discount,
comes from the difference between their purchase price and their maturity value.
For a discussion of certain tax consequences resulting from the inclusion of
zero coupon securities in the Fund's portfolio, see "Federal Taxation -- Federal
Income Tax Treatment of the Fund."
Notwithstanding the foregoing, if market conditions threaten to erode the
value of the Fund's assets, the Fund may adopt a temporary defensive investment
strategy and invest without limitation in high-grade money market instruments,
including commercial paper of domestic and foreign corporations, certificates of
deposit, bankers' acceptances and other obligations of banks, repurchase
agreements and short-term obligations issued or guaranteed by the United States
government or its instrumentalities or agencies, and also in fixed-income
securities rated higher than "BB"/"Ba" by the Rating Agencies. In addition,
under such market conditions, the Fund may invest in unrated commercial paper
which it deems to have risk characteristics comparable to such instruments. The
yield on these securities will tend to be lower than the yield on other
securities to be purchased by the Fund.
The Fund may also invest in fixed-income securities rated higher than
"BB"/"Ba" by the Rating Agencies or nonrated fixed-income securities deemed by
the Investment Adviser to be of comparable quality when the difference in yields
between quality classifications is relatively narrow. Investments in higher
rated issues may serve to lessen a decline in net asset value but may also
affect the amount of current income produced by the Fund, since the yields from
such issues are usually lower than those from lower rated issues. Accordingly,
the inclusion of such instruments in the Fund's portfolio may have the effect of
reducing the yield on the Common Stock.
The achievement of the Fund's objective depends upon the Investment
Adviser's analytical and portfolio management skills. There is no assurance that
this objective will be attained in the future. All nonfundamental investment
policies of the Fund, including those described below under "Investment
Guidelines," may be changed by the Board of Directors of the Fund without
shareholder approval.
INVESTMENT GUIDELINES
The composition of the Fund's portfolio reflects the Notes Investment
Guidelines and the Surety Investment Guidelines. Rating agencies issue ratings
for various securities reflecting the perceived creditworthiness of such
securities or, in the case of the Preferred Shares, the perceived claims-paying
ability of the surety that is guaranteeing the Scheduled Payments (as defined
herein) on the Preferred Shares. See "Surety Arrangement for Preferred Shares --
Insurance Agreement." The respective Investment Guidelines are designed to
ensure that assets underlying the Notes or the Preferred Shares, as the case may
be, will be sufficiently diversified and will be of sufficient credit quality
and amount to justify investment grade ratings of "Aaa" for the Notes by Fitch
Investors Services, Inc. and "AAA"/"Aaa" for the Preferred Shares. The
Investment Guidelines are not prescribed by law, but have been implemented by
the Fund in order to receive the above-described ratings for senior securities,
which ratings are generally relied upon by institutional investors in purchasing
such securities. In the context of a closed-end investment company such as the
Fund, therefore, the Investment Guidelines provide tests for portfolio
diversification and asset coverage that supplement the applicable requirements
under the 1940 Act (and may be more or less restrictive), but are the sole
determinants in the rating of a security.
Under the respective Investment Guidelines, the Fund is required to maintain
specified discounted asset values for its portfolio representing the Note Basic
Maintenance Amount and Surety Assets Coverage. For definitions of such terms,
see "Description of Notes -- Asset Maintenance" and "Surety Arrangement for
Preferred Shares -- Insurance Agreement." For the purpose of determining the
Fund's compliance with the respective Investment Guidelines, the market value of
the Fund's portfolio holdings will be discounted by dividing it by factors
determined by the respective rating agencies or Financial Security as the case
may be, which vary according to the particular type of security being valued for
such purpose. To the extent any particular portfolio holding does not meet the
applicable Investment Guidelines, it would not be included for purposes of
determining compliance with the Note Basic Maintenance Amount or Surety Assets
Coverage, as the case may be. The respective Investment Guidelines do not impose
any limitations on the percentage of Fund assets that may be invested in
holdings not eligible for inclusion in the calculation of the discounted value
of the Fund's portfolio, and the amount of such assets included in the portfolio
at any time, if any, may vary depending upon the credit quality (and related
discounted value) of the Fund's eligible assets at such time.
Upon any failure to maintain the required Note Basic Maintenance Amount or
Surety Assets Coverage, the Fund would seek to alter the composition of its
portfolio to attain required asset coverage within an eight Business Day cure
period, thereby incurring additional transaction costs and possible losses
and/or gains on dispositions of portfolio securities. To the extent any such
failure is not cured in a timely manner, the holders of the Notes and/or
Financial Security, as surety under the Surety Bond (as defined herein), will
acquire certain rights. See "Description of Notes -- Asset Maintenance" and
"Surety Arrangement for Preferred Shares -- Insurance Agreement."
Under the Notes Investment Guidelines, corporate debt obligations are not
included in the calculation of the discounted value of the Fund's portfolio for
the purpose of determining compliance with the Note Basic Maintenance Amount
unless they (a) are rated "CCC" or higher by S&P or "Caa" or higher by Moody's,
(b) provide for the periodic payment of interest thereon in cash, (c) have been
registered under the Securities Act, (d) do not provide for conversion or
exchange into equity capital at any time over their respective lives, (e) have
not had notice given in respect thereof that any such corporate debt obligations
are the subject of an offer by the issuer thereof of exchange or tender for
cash, securities or any other type of consideration (except that corporate debt
obligations in an amount not exceeding 10% of the Fund's total assets at any
time shall not be subject to the provisions of this clause (e)) and (f) are not
subject to call options. In addition, portfolio holdings must be within the
following diversification requirements in order to be included in the
calculation of the discounted value of the Fund's portfolio for the purpose of
determining compliance with the Note Basic Maintenance Amount:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MAXIMUM
MAXIMUM PERCENT OF MARKET
PERCENT OF MARKET VALUE OF ELIGIBLE
MINIMUM ORIGINAL VALUE OF ELIGIBLE PORTFOLIO ASSETS
ISSUE SIZE OF PORTFOLIO ASSETS INVESTED IN ANY
RATING AGENCIES' EACH ISSUE INVESTED IN ANY ONE INDUSTRY
RATINGS(1) ($ IN MILLIONS) ONE ISSUER(2) CATEGORY(2)
---------- ---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
"AAA"/"Aaa" ............................................ $100 10.0% 50.0%
"AA"/"Aa" .............................................. 100 10.0 33.3
"A"/"A" ................................................ 100 10.0 33.3
"BBB"/"Baa" ............................................ 100 5.0 20.0
"BB"/"Ba".............................................. 100(3) 4.0 12.0
"B"/"B1," "B2" and "B3" (subordinated) ................. 100(3) 3.0 8.0
"CCC"/"B3" (senior) and "Caa" (unsecured subordinated)(4) 100(3) 2.0 5.0
"A-1+"/"P-1"(5) ........................................ NA 10.0 NA
"A-1"/"P-1"(5) ......................................... NA 10.0 33.3
"A-2"/"P-2"(5) ......................................... NA 5.0 20.0
- ------------
(1) Rating designations include (+) or (-) modifiers to the S&P rating where appropriate and (1), (2) or (3) modifiers to the
Moody's rating where appropriate, except that corporate debt obligations rated "CCC-" may not be included in determining
compliance with the Note Basic Maintenance Amount. In the event that a corporate debt obligation has received a different
rating from S&P than from Moody's, the restrictions relating to the lower rating will apply. See Appendix A for further
information concerning S&P's and Moody's rating categories.
(2) The referenced percentages represent maximum cumulative totals for the related rating category and each lower rating
category, except that the calculations with respect to commercial paper investments constituting corporate bonds shall be
made separately and independently of, but on the same basis as, the cumulative total guidelines applicable to other types of
corporate debt obligations. To the extent the relevant limitation is less restrictive than that set forth under "Investment
Restrictions" below, the more restrictive limitation shall apply.
(3) 20% of the aggregate market value of all corporate debt obligations in these rating categories may be from issues with an
original issue size of greater than or equal to $50 million and less than $100 million.
(4) Corporate debt obligations in this rating category must be subordinated debt of the issuer with an implied senior rating of
"B-" or higher (i.e., such subordinated debt would have a rating of "B-" or higher if it were senior debt of the issuer) if
rated by S&P to be included in determining compliance with the Note Basic Maintenance Amount. The aggregate market value of
corporate debt obligations in this rating category in excess of 20% of the aggregate market value of the Fund's assets will
not be included in determining such compliance.
(5) Represents commercial paper investments.
</TABLE>
Under the Surety Investment Guidelines, corporate debt obligations are not
included in the calculation of the discounted value of the Fund's portfolio for
the purpose of determining compliance with Surety Assets Coverage unless they
(a) are rated "CCC" or higher by S&P or "B3" or higher by Moody's, (b) provide
for the periodic payment of interest thereon in cash, (c) do not provide for
conversion or exchange into equity capital at any time over their respective
lives, (d) have been registered under the Securities Act, (e) have a remaining
term to maturity of not more than 30 years, (f) have not had notice given in
respect thereof that any such corporate debt obligations are the subject of an
offer by the issuer thereof of exchange or tender for cash, securities or any
other type of consideration (except that corporate debt obligations in an amount
not exceeding 10% of the Fund's total assets at any time shall not be subject to
the provisions of this clause (f)) and (g) are not subject to call options.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, nonrated fixed-income securities and unregistered
corporate debt securities may be included in the calculation of the discounted
value of the Fund's portfolio for the purpose of determining compliance with
Surety Assets Coverage, as long as they do not exceed 30% of the Fund's eligible
portfolio assets at any time, with certain limitations. In addition, portfolio
holdings of corporate debt obligations must be within the following
diversification requirements in order to be included in the calculation of the
discounted value of the Fund's portfolio for the purpose of determining
compliance with Surety Assets Coverage:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MAXIMUM
MAXIMUM PERCENT OF MARKET
PERCENT OF MARKET VALUE OF ELIGIBLE
MINIMUM ORIGINAL VALUE OF ELIGIBLE PORTFOLIO ASSETS
ISSUE SIZE OF PORTFOLIO ASSETS INVESTED IN ANY
RATING AGENCIES' EACH ISSUE INVESTED IN ANY ONE INDUSTRY
RATINGS(1) ($ IN MILLIONS) ONE ISSUER(2) CATEGORY(2)
- ---------- ---------- ---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
"AAA"/"Aaa" ............................................ $100 10.0% 50.0%
"AA"/"Aa" .............................................. 100 10.0 33.3
"A"/"A" ................................................ 100 10.0 33.3
"BBB"/"Baa" ............................................ 100 5.0 20.0
"BB"/"Ba" .............................................. 100(3) 4.0 12.0
"B"/"B1" or "B2" ....................................... 100(3) 3.0 8.0
"CCC"/"B3"(4) .......................................... 100(3) 3.0 8.0
Nonrated/unregistered corporate bonds(5) ............... 50 3.0 8.0
"A-1+"/"P-1"(6) ........................................ NA 10.0 NA
"A-1"/"P-1"(6) ......................................... NA 10.0 33.3
"A-2"/"P-2"(6) ......................................... NA 5.0 20.0
- ------------
(1) Rating designations include (+) or (-) modifiers to the S&P rating where appropriate and (1), (2) or (3) modifiers to the
Moody's rating where appropriate, except that corporate debt obligations rated "CCC-" may not be included in determining
compliance with Surety Assets Coverage. In the event that a corporate debt obligation has received a different rating from
S&P than from Moody's, the restrictions relating to the lower rating will apply. See Appendix A for further information
concerning S&P's and Moody's rating categories. If only one of the Rating Agencies has issued a rating for such instrument,
then only the rating of such agency is required; provided, however, that not more than 15% of the aggregate market value of
the rated corporate debt obligations included in determining compliance with Surety Assets Coverage shall be comprised of
corporate debt obligations having a rating from only one of such agencies.
(2) The referenced percentages represent maximum cumulative totals for the related rating category and each lower rating
category, except that the calculations with respect to commercial paper investments constituting corporate bonds shall be
made separately and independently of, but on the same basis as, the cumulative total guidelines applicable to other types of
corporate debt obligations. To the extent the relevant limitation is less restrictive than that set forth under "Investment
Restrictions" below, the more restrictive limitation shall apply.
(3) 20% of the aggregate value of all corporate debt obligations in these rating categories may be from issues with an original
issue size of greater than or equal to $50 million and less than $100 million.
(4) Corporate debt obligations in this rating category must be subordinated debt of the issuer with an implied senior rating of
"B-" or higher (i.e., that such subordinated debt would have a rating of "B-" or higher if it were senior debt of the
issuer) if rated by S&P to be included in determining compliance with Surety Assets Coverage. The aggregate market value of
corporate debt obligations in this rating category in excess of 20% of the aggregate market value of the Fund's eligible
portfolio assets will not be included in determining such compliance.
(5) Nonrated/unregistered corporate bonds may not constitute more than 30% of the aggregate market value of the Fund's eligible
portfolio assets. Not more than 18% of the aggregate market value of the Fund's eligible portfolio assets may consist of
nonrated/unregistered corporate bonds from issues with original issue sizes of $50 million or more but less than $100
million, provided that not more than 9% of the aggregate market value of the Fund's eligible portfolio assets may consist of
nonrated/unregistered corporate bonds from issues with an original issue size of $50 million or more but less than $75
million.
(6) Represents commercial paper investments.
</TABLE>
Additionally, under the Surety Investment Guidelines, the Fund may not (i)
acquire or otherwise invest in (A) repurchase agreements except repurchase
agreements with a remaining term to maturity of not more than 30 days, (B)
reverse repurchase agreements, (C) futures contracts or (D) options on futures
contracts except to the extent such options do not exceed 5% of the total assets
of the Fund, (ii) engage in short sales, (iii) overdraw any bank account, (iv)
write options on portfolio securities other than call options on securities held
in the Fund's portfolio or that the Fund has an immediate right to acquire
through conversion or exchange of securities held in its portfolio or (v) engage
in the lending of portfolio securities. The Fund does not currently intend to
utilize any of the prohibited investment strategies as described above. However,
the Fund could utilize any of the foregoing with the written consent of
Financial Security, and therefore, the Fund may use such strategies in the
future.
PORTFOLIO MATURITY AND TURNOVER
The Fund's holdings may include issues of various maturities. Ordinarily,
the Fund will emphasize investments in medium and longer term instruments (i.e.,
those with maturities in excess of three years), but the weighted average
maturity of portfolio holdings may be shortened or lengthened depending
primarily upon the Investment Adviser's outlook for interest rates. To the
extent the weighted average maturity of the Fund's portfolio securities is
lengthened, the value of such holdings will be more susceptible to fluctuation
in response to changes in interest rates, creditworthiness and general economic
conditions. As of October 31, 1997, the weighted average maturity of the Fund's
portfolio holdings was 6.8 years. The weighted average of the Fund's portfolio
will fluctuate depending on market conditions and investment opportunities. The
Fund, however, does not expect that the weighted average maturity of the Fund's
portfolio will, under normal conditions, exceed 15 years.
The Investment Adviser actively makes portfolio adjustments that reflect the
Fund's investment strategy, but does not trade securities for the Fund for the
purpose of seeking short-term profits. It will, however, change the Fund's
securities, regardless of how long they have been held, when it believes doing
so will further the Fund's investment objective.
In light of the Fund's investment objective and policies, it is anticipated
that the Fund's portfolio turnover rate generally will not, although it may,
from time to time, exceed 100% per annum. A 100% annual turnover rate would
occur, for example, if all the securities in the Fund's portfolio were replaced
once within a period of one year. The Fund does, however, reserve full freedom
with respect to portfolio turnover. In periods when there are rapid changes in
economic conditions or security price levels or when investment strategy is
changed significantly, portfolio turnover may be significantly higher than
during times of economic and market price stability, when investment strategy
remains relatively constant. A high rate of portfolio turnover will result in
increased transaction costs for the Fund in the form of increased dealer spreads
and brokerage commissions. The Fund's portfolio turnover rates for the fiscal
years ended October 31, 1995, 1996 and 1997 were 80.71%, 108.33% and 176.04%,
respectively.
CERTAIN INVESTMENT STRATEGIES
The Investment Adviser reserves the right to employ the strategies described
below in order to help achieve the Fund's investment objective. Such strategies
include the lending of portfolio securities, the short sale of securities and
the use of futures contracts and options thereon, reverse repurchase agreements
and repurchase agreements (other than certain repurchase agreements with
qualified depository institutions having maturities not longer than one day).
Unless so stated below, there are no limits to the Fund's use of these
investment strategies. The Fund's Board of Directors has adopted an operating
policy under which the Fund will not subject more than 5% of its total net
assets to investment techniques such as options, futures contracts and related
options, foreign currency transactions, interest rate transactions, and similar
techniques such as hedging or investment techniques. In addition, the respective
Investment Guidelines, as well as other terms of the Surety Arrangement, may
have the effect of limiting the Fund's use of other investment strategies to the
extent such investments are not eligible for inclusion in the discounted value
of the Fund's portfolio.
Securities Loans. The Fund may make secured loans of its portfolio
securities amounting to not more than one-third of the value of its total
assets, thereby realizing additional income. The risks in lending portfolio
securities, as with other extensions of credit, consist of possible delays in
recovery of the securities or possible loss of rights in the collateral should
the borrower fail financially. As a matter of policy, securities loans are made
to unaffiliated broker-dealers pursuant to agreements requiring that loans be
continuously secured by collateral in cash or short-term debt obligations at
least equal at all times to the value of the securities subject to the loan. The
borrower pays to the Fund an amount equal to any interest or dividends received
on securities subject to the loan. The Fund retains all or a portion of the
interest received on investment of the cash collateral or receives a fee from
the borrower. Although voting rights, or rights to consent, with respect to the
loaned securities pass to the borrower, the Fund retains the right to call the
loans at any time on reasonable notice, and it will do so in order that the
securities may be voted by the Fund if the holders of such securities are asked
to vote upon or consent to matters materially affecting the investment. The Fund
may also call such loans in order to sell the securities involved.
When-Issued and Delayed Delivery Securities. From time to time, in the
ordinary course of business, the Fund may purchase securities on a when-issued
or delayed delivery basis (i.e., delivery and payment can take place a month or
more after the date of the transaction). The Fund will invest in when- issued
and delayed delivery securities in order to lock in a favorable rate of return.
The purchase price and the interest rate payable on the securities are fixed on
the transaction date. The securities so purchased are subject to market
fluctuation, and no interest accrues to the Fund until delivery and payment take
place. At the time the Fund makes the commitment to purchase securities on a
when-issued or delayed delivery basis, it will record the transaction and
thereafter reflect the value of such securities in determining its net asset
value. The Fund will make commitments for such when-issued transactions only
with the intention of actually acquiring the securities. To facilitate such
acquisitions, the Fund's custodian bank will maintain, in a separate account of
the Fund, cash or United States government or other high quality debt securities
from its portfolio, marked to market daily and having value equal to or greater
than such commitments. On delivery dates for such transactions, the Fund will
meet its obligations from maturities or sales of the securities held in the
separate account and/or from then available cash flow. If the Fund chooses to
dispose of the right to acquire a when-issued security prior to its acquisition,
it could, as with the disposition of other portfolio obligations, incur a gain
or loss due to market fluctuation. The Fund is dependent on the other party to
successfully complete when-issued and delayed delivery transactions. If such
other party fails to complete its portion of the transaction, the Fund will have
lost the opportunity to invest the amount set aside for such transaction in the
segregated asset account.
Repurchase Agreements. The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements on up
to 25% of the value of its total assets. A repurchase agreement is a contract
under which the Fund acquires a security for a relatively short period (usually
not more than one week) subject to the obligation of the seller to repurchase
and the Fund to resell such security at a fixed time and price (representing the
Fund's cost plus interest). The Fund will invest in repurchase obligations to
assist in the management of its portfolio and also to obtain additional revenue
and thereby maximize shareholders' value. It is the Fund's present intention to
enter into repurchase agreements only with commercial banks and registered
broker-dealers and only with respect to obligations of the United States
government or its agencies or instrumentalities. Repurchase agreements may also
be viewed as loans made by the Fund which are collateralized by the securities
subject to repurchase. The Investment Adviser will monitor such transactions to
ensure that the value of the underlying securities will be at least equal at all
times to the total amount of the repurchase obligation, including the interest
factor. The Investment Adviser will also evaluate the creditworthiness of the
repurchase agreement sellers with whom the Fund does business and will monitor
their creditworthiness during the period of any repurchase agreement. If the
seller defaults, the Fund could realize a loss on the sale of the underlying
security to the extent that the proceeds of sale including accrued interest are
less than the resale price provided in the agreement including interest. In
addition, if the seller should be involved in bankruptcy or insolvency
proceedings, the Fund may incur delay and costs in selling the underlying
security or may suffer a loss of principal and interest if the Fund is treated
as an unsecured creditor and required to return the underlying collateral to the
seller's estate.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements. The Fund may enter into reverse repurchase
agreements with respect to debt obligations which could otherwise be sold by the
Fund. A reverse repurchase agreement is an instrument under which the Fund may
sell an underlying debt instrument and simultaneously obtain the commitment of
the purchaser (a commercial bank or a broker or dealer) to sell the security
back to the Fund at an agreed upon price on an agreed upon date. The Fund will
undertake reverse repurchase transactions to assist in the management of its
portfolio and to obtain additional liquidity in its portfolios. The value of
underlying securities will be at least equal at all times to the total amount of
the resale obligation, including the interest factor. The Fund receives payment
for such securities only upon physical delivery or evidence of book entry
transfer by its custodian. Regulations of the SEC require that if securities are
sold by the Fund under a reverse repurchase agreement, the Fund will maintain in
a segregated account of the Fund established with the Custodian (as defined
herein), cash or United States government or other high quality debt securities
from its portfolio, marked to market daily and having a value equal to the
proceeds received on any sale subject to repurchase plus interest. Reverse
repurchase agreements could involve certain risks in the event of default or
insolvency of the other party, including possible delays or restrictions upon
the Fund's ability to dispose of the underlying securities. An additional risk
is that the market value of securities sold by the Fund under a reverse
repurchase agreement could decline below the price at which the Fund is
obligated to repurchase them. Reverse repurchase agreements will be considered
borrowings by the Fund and as such would be subject to the restrictions on
borrowing described below under "Investment Restrictions." The Fund will not
hold more than 5% of the value of its total assets in reverse repurchase
agreements and will enter into such agreements only so long as it is not in
violation of Section 18 of the 1940 Act.
Foreign Investments. The Fund may invest up to 10% of the value of its total
assets in securities principally traded in foreign markets and Eurodollar
certificates of deposit issued by branches of U.S. banks. Foreign investments
may involve risks not present to the same degree in domestic investments, such
as future political and economic developments, the imposition of withholding
taxes on interest income, seizure or nationalization of foreign deposits, the
establishment of exchange controls or the adoption of other foreign governmental
restrictions which might adversely affect the payment of principal and interest
on such obligations. Foreign securities may be less liquid and more volatile
than U.S. securities, and foreign accounting and disclosure standards may differ
from U.S. standards. In addition, settlement of transactions in foreign
securities may be subject to delays, which could result in adverse consequences
to the Fund including restrictions on the subsequent resale of such securities.
The value of foreign investments may rise or fall because of changes in currency
exchange rates. In addition, the costs of exchanging foreign currencies for
payments in U.S. dollars and nonnegotiated brokerage commissions in foreign
countries may reduce the yield on foreign securities. In the event of a default
in payment on foreign securities, the Fund may incur increased costs to obtain a
judgment against the foreign issuer in the United States or abroad. The Fund may
buy or sell foreign currencies or deal in forward foreign currency contracts to
hedge against possible fluctuations in exchange rates that may affect the yield
of the Fund when the foreign currencies are converted in payment in U.S.
dollars. The Fund may engage in currency exchange transactions to protect
against uncertainty in the level of future exchange rates. The Fund will use
currency transactions only for hedging and not speculation. A forward currency
contract involves an obligation to purchase or sell a specific currency at a
future date, which may be any fixed number of days from the date of the contract
agreed upon by the parties, at a price set at the time of the contract. The
Fund's dealings in forward currency exchange will be limited to hedging
involving either specific transactions or portfolio positions. Transaction
hedging is the purchase or sale of forward currency with respect to specific
receivables or payables of the Fund generally arising in connection with the
purchase or sale of its portfolio securities. Position hedging is the sale of
forward currency with respect to portfolio security positions denominated or
quoted in the currency.
The Fund may not use position hedging with respect to a particular currency
to an extent greater than the aggregate market value (at the time of entering
into the position hedge) of the securities held in its portfolio denominated or
quoted in or currently convertible into that particular currency. If the Fund
enters into a position hedging transaction, the Fund's custodian will place cash
or U.S. Government securities or other high grade liquid debt securities in a
segregated account of the Fund in an amount equal to the value of the Fund's
total assets committed to the consummation of the forward contract. If the value
of the securities placed in the segregated account declines, additional cash or
securities will be placed in the account so that the value of the account will
equal the amount of the Fund's commitment with respect to the forward contract.
Options. The Fund may write (sell) call options which are traded on national
securities exchanges with respect to securities in its portfolio. The Fund may
only write "covered" call options, that is, options on securities it holds in
its portfolio or has an immediate right to acquire through conversion or
exchange of securities held in its portfolio. The Fund may write call options on
its portfolio securities in an attempt to realize a greater current return than
would be realized on the securities alone. The Fund may also write call options
as a partial hedge against a possible market decline. In view of its investment
objective, the Fund generally would write call options only in circumstances in
which the Investment Adviser does not anticipate significant appreciation of the
underlying security in the near future or has otherwise determined to dispose of
the security. As the writer of a call option, the Fund receives a premium for
undertaking the obligation to sell the underlying security at a fixed price
during the option period if the option is exercised. So long as the Fund remains
obligated as a writer of a call option, it forgoes the opportunity to profit
from increases in the market price of the underlying security above the exercise
price of the option, except insofar as the premium represents such a profit (and
retains the risk of loss should the value of the underlying security decline).
The Fund may also enter into "closing purchase transactions" in order to
terminate its obligation as a writer of a call option prior to the expiration of
the option. Although the writing of call options only on national securities
exchanges increases the likelihood that the Fund will be able to make closing
purchase transactions, there is no assurance that the Fund will be able to
effect such transactions at any particular time or at any acceptable price. The
writing of call options could result in increases in the Fund's portfolio
turnover rate, especially during periods when market prices of the underlying
securities appreciate. The extent to which the Fund may enter into transactions
involving call options also may be limited by the requirements of the Internal
Revenue Code for qualification as a regulated investment company.
Futures Contracts and Related Options. The Investment Adviser does not
currently intend that the Fund will trade in futures contracts or related
options and has no experience in doing so. However, the Fund has reserved the
right, subject to the approval of the Board of Directors, to purchase and sell
financial futures contracts and options on such futures contracts for the
purpose of hedging its portfolio securities (or portfolio securities which it
expects to acquire) against anticipated changes in prevailing interest rates.
This technique could be employed if the Investment Adviser anticipates that
interest rates may rise, in which event the Fund could sell a futures contract
to protect against the potential decline in the value of its portfolio
securities. Conversely, if declining interest rates were anticipated, the Fund
could purchase a futures contract to protect against a potential increase in the
price of securities the Fund intends to purchase. However, employing this
technique effectively requires skills that are different from those required to
select portfolio securities and the Investment Adviser has no experience in
using this technique.
Under the regulations of the U.S. Commodity Futures Trading Commission
("CFTC"), the Fund will not be considered a "commodity pool," as defined under
such regulations, as a result of entering into transactions in futures contracts
and options on futures contracts, provided, among other things, that: (1) such
transactions are entered into solely for bona fide hedging purposes, as defined
under CFTC regulations; or (2) the aggregate initial margin and premiums for any
other such transactions entered into does not exceed 5% of the Fund's total
assets (after taking into account any unrealized profits and losses). The extent
to which the Fund may enter into transactions involving futures contracts also
may be limited by the requirements of the Internal Revenue Code for
qualification as a regulated investment company.
Risks of Hedging Transactions. The use of options, financial futures and
options on financial futures may involve risks not associated with other types
of investments which the Fund intends to purchase and it is possible that a
portfolio that utilizes hedging strategies may not perform as well as a
portfolio that does not make use of such devices. In particular, the Fund's
positions in options and financial futures may be entered and closed out only on
a federally licensed exchange which provides a market therefor, and there can be
no assurance that a liquid market will exist for any particular option or
futures contract. Because financial futures and related options markets
generally impose limits on daily price movement, it is possible that the
Investment Adviser will not be able to close out hedge positions promptly. The
inability to close out options and futures positions could have an adverse
impact on the Fund's ability to hedge its securities effectively and might, in
some cases, require the Fund to deposit substantial amounts of additional cash
to meet applicable margin requirements. The Fund's ability to hedge effectively
through transactions in financial futures or options depends on the degree to
which price movements, which include, in part, changes in interest rates, in the
Fund's holdings correlate with price movements of the hedging instruments.
Inasmuch as the Fund's options and futures will not duplicate such underlying
securities, the correlation will probably not be perfect. Consequently, the
prices, which include, in part, changes in interest rates, of the securities
being hedged may not move in the same amount as the hedging instrument. It is
possible that there may be a negative correlation between the hedging instrument
and the hedged securities, which would prevent the Fund from achieving the
anticipated benefits of hedging transactions or may cause the Fund to realize
losses and thus be in a worse position than if such strategies had not been
used.
Additional Leverage. The Fund has reserved the right to borrow money to the
extent such borrowing would not result in a violation of the 1940 Act Asset
Coverage (as defined under "Description of Notes -- Asset Maintenance") and
would not otherwise violate Section 18 of the 1940 Act or restrictions imposed
by the Insurance Agreement (as defined below). The Fund may borrow to the extent
then permitted by the 1940 Act through the public or private issuance of debt
securities and/or from lenders of all types, such as banks, savings and loan
associations, insurance companies and similar financial institutions. In
addition, the Fund may borrow up to 5% of its total assets for temporary
purposes. To the extent permitted by the 1940 Act, the Fund may also borrow
additional amounts as it redeems Notes and Preferred Shares.
At the date hereof, the Fund intends, but is not commited to add incremental
leverage to the Fund following the completion of the Offer. The Board of
Directors has authorized the Fund to incur incremental leverage following the
completion of the Offer. If such leverage is added, the percentage of the Fund's
assets representing leverage would be substantially the same upon completion of
the Offer. The Fund anticipates that it will renegotiate and refinance the terms
of its outstanding leverage in 1998 as it is as of the date hereof. The Fund
reserves the right at any time, if it believes that market conditions are
appropriate, to increase its level of debt or other senior securities to
maintain or increase the Fund's current level of leverage to the extent
permitted under the 1940 Act and existing agreements between the Fund and third
parties. See "Risk Factors and Special Considerations" for a discussion of
certain risks associated with borrowings by the Fund.
INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS
The following restrictions are fundamental policies. All percentage
limitations on investments will apply at the time of the making of an investment
and shall not be considered violated unless an excess or deficiency occurs or
exists immediately after and as a result of such investment.
The Fund may not:
1. Borrow money (through reverse repurchase agreements or otherwise) to
the extent such borrowing would result in a violation of 1940 Act Asset
Coverage or otherwise result in a violation of Section 18 of the 1940 Act,
or issue any senior securities (as defined in the 1940 Act) other than
Notes, Preferred Shares or debt instruments related to borrowings described
under "Investment Policies and Limitations -- Certain Investment Strategies
-- Additional Leverage" to the extent such instruments are deemed to
constitute senior securities; provided that for this purpose temporary
borrowings in an amount not exceeding 5% of the Fund's total assets (not
including the amount borrowed) shall not be deemed a senior security.
Pursuant to Section 18 of the 1940 Act, not more than 33 1/3% of the Fund's
capital structure may consist of borrowings representing indebtedness, such
as the Notes, and not more than 50% of the Fund's capital structure may
consist of borrowings represented by indebtedness, such as the Notes, and
senior securities of a class which is stock, such as the Preferred Shares.
2. Pledge, hypothecate, mortgage or otherwise encumber its assets,
except to secure borrowings permitted by restriction 1 above. Collateral
arrangements with respect to margin for futures contracts and options are
not deemed to be pledges or other encumbrances for purposes of this
restriction.
3. Purchase securities on margin, except such short-term credits as may
be necessary for the clearance of purchases and sales of securities and
except that the Fund may make margin payments in connection with
transactions in futures contracts and options.
4. Make short sales of securities or maintain a short position for the
account of the Fund unless at all times when a short position is open the
Fund owns an equal amount of such securities or owns securities which,
without payment of any further consideration, are convertible into or
exchangeable for securities of the same issue as, and in equal amount to,
the securities sold short.
5. Underwrite securities issued by other persons except to the extent
that, in connection with the disposition of its portfolio investments, the
Fund may be deemed to be an underwriter under the federal securities laws.
6. Purchase or sell real estate, although the Fund may purchase
securities of issuers that deal in real estate, securities that are secured
by interests in real estate and securities representing interests in real
estate.
7. Purchase or sell commodities or commodity contracts, except that the
Fund may purchase or sell financial futures contracts and related options as
provided herein.
8. Make loans, except by purchase of debt obligations in which the Fund
may invest consistently with its investment policies, by entering into
repurchase agreements with respect to not more than 25% of the value of its
total assets, or through the lending of its portfolio securities with
respect to not more than one-third of the value of its total assets.
9. Invest in securities of any issuer, if, to the knowledge of the Fund,
officers and Directors of the Fund and officers and directors of the
Investment Adviser who beneficially own more than 0.50% of the securities of
that issuer together own more than 5% of such issuer.
10. With respect to 75% of the value of the Fund's total assets, invest
in securities of any issuer if, immediately after such investment, more than
5% of the value of the Fund's total assets would be invested in the
securities of such issuer, provided that this limitation does not apply to
obligations issued or guaranteed as to interest and principal by the United
States government or its agencies or instrumentalities.
11. With respect to 75% of the value of the Fund's total assets, acquire
more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any issuer.
12. Invest 25% or more of the value of its total assets in any one
industry, provided that this limitation does not apply to obligations issued
or guaranteed as to interest and principal by the United States government
or its agencies or instrumentalities.
13. Invest more than 30% of the market value or other fair value of its
total assets in securities that are not readily marketable, including those
that are restricted as to disposition under the federal securities laws or
otherwise. This restriction shall not apply to securities received as a
result of a corporate reorganization or similar transaction affecting
readily marketable securities already held in the portfolio of the Fund or
to repurchase agreements that have a maturity of seven days or less;
however, the Fund will attempt to dispose in an orderly fashion of any
securities received under these circumstances to the extent that such
securities, together with other securities that are not readily marketable,
exceed 30% of the market or other fair value of the Fund's total assets.
14. Invest in the securities of other registered investment companies,
except as they may be acquired as part of a merger or consolidation or
acquisition of assets or by purchases in the open market involving only
customary brokers' commissions.
15. Buy or sell oil, gas or other mineral leases, rights or royalty
contracts, although the Fund may purchase securities of issuers which deal
in, represent interests in or are secured by interests in such leases,
rights or contracts.
16. Make investments for the purpose of exercising control or management
over the issuer of any security.
17. Write, purchase or sell puts, calls or combinations thereof, or
purchase or sell futures contracts or related options, except that the Fund
may write call options and invest in futures contracts and related options
as provided in "Investment Guidelines -- Certain Investment Strategies --
Options" and "-- Futures Contracts and Related Options."
Although the provisions of restrictions 2 (with respect to futures
contracts), 3 and 7 permit the Fund to engage in certain practices to a limited
extent, the Fund does not have any current intention of engaging in such
practices. See "Investment Policies and Limitations -- Certain Investment
Strategies -- Futures Contracts and Related Options." Further, as noted, certain
practices are subject to the condition that they not adversely affect the then
current ratings of the Fund's outstanding securities and are subject to the
prior written approval of Financial Security.
The Board of Directors of the Fund has recommended that its shareholders
approve the elimination of the fundamental nature of investment restriction 13,
which provides that the Fund may not invest more than 30% of the market value or
other fair value of its total assets in securities that are not readily
marketable, including those that are restricted as to disposition under the
federal securities laws. This proposal will be presented to shareholders of the
Fund for a vote at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders in March 1998. If this
proposal is approved by the shareholders of the Fund, investment in securities
that are not readily marketable will no longer be restricted by a fundamental
investment restriction, but rather would be subject to a non-fundamental
restriction which would provide that the Fund will not invest more than 30% of
its total assets in securities that are not readily marketable. Securities that
may be restricted as to resale under federal securities laws or otherwise would
not be subject to the 30% restriction to the extent such securities were
determined by the Fund's Investment Adviser (acting under the supervision of the
Board) to be readily marketable. The Fund currently analyzes, in accordance with
certain SEC guidelines, Rule 144A securities to determine whether they are
readily marketable prior to acquiring such securities and will continue to do so
in the future. Investing in Rule 144A Securities, however, could have the effect
of increasing the illiquidity of the Fund's assets to the extent that qualified
institutional buyers become, for a time, uninterested in purchasing these
securities.
In addition, the Board of Directors has authorized the Fund to submit for
shareholder approval an amendment to the Fund's investment restriction 1 to
permit the Fund to issue a new series of preferred stock and to issue senior
securities to the full extent permitted by the 1940 Act. See "Risk Factors and
Special Considerations -- Risk of Leverage."
Because they are fundamental policies, the 1940 Act requires that the
foregoing investment restrictions may not be changed without the approval of the
holders of a majority of the outstanding shares of Common Stock and a majority
of the outstanding Preferred Shares, voting as separate classes, which, for
purposes of the 1940 Act, means for each class the lesser of (a) more than 50%
of the total number of outstanding shares of such class or (b) 67% or more of
the shares of such class present or represented at a meeting at which more than
50% of the outstanding shares of such class are present or represented by proxy.
RISK FACTORS AND SPECIAL CONSIDERATIONS
An investment in the Fund is subject to a number of risks and special
considerations, including the following:
DILUTION
An immediate dilution of the aggregate net asset value of the shares of
Common stock owned by Record Date Shareholders who do not fully exercise their
Rights may be experienced as a result of the Offer because the Subscription
Price per Share may be less than the Fund's net asset value per share on the
Expiration Date, and the number of shares outstanding after the Offer is likely
to increase in a greater percentage than the increase in the size of the Fund's
assets. In addition, as a result of the Offer, Record Date Shareholders who do
not fully exercise their Rights should expect that they will, at the completion
of the Offer, own a smaller proportional interest in the Fund than would
otherwise be the case. Although it is not possible to state precisely the amount
of any such decrease in net asset value, because it is not known at this time
what the net asset value per share will be at the Expiration Date or what
proportion of the Shares will be subscribed, such dilution could be substantial.
For example, assuming that all Rights are exercised, at the Subscription Price
of $3.80, which is 5% below the Fund's net asset value of $3.98 per share as of
December 19, 1997, the Fund's net asset value per share (after payment of the
Dealer Manager and soliciting fees and estimated offering expenses) would be
reduced by approximately $0.09 per share. The distribution to shareholders of
transferable Rights which themselves may have a realizable value will afford
non-participating shareholders the potential of receiving a cash payment upon
sale of such Rights, receipt of which may be viewed as partial compensation for
the possible dilution of their interest in the Fund. No assurance can be given
that a market for the Rights will develop or as to the value, if any, that such
Rights will have.
RISK OF LEVERAGE
The Fund's leveraged capital structure creates special risks not associated
with unleveraged funds having similar investment objectives and policies,
including a higher volatility of the net asset value of the Common Stock and
potentially more volatility in the market value of the Common Stock. For a
description of the Notes and Preferred Shares, see "Description of the Notes"
and "Description of Capital Stock." Any investment income or gains earned from
the capital contributed by the purchasers of the Notes, the Preferred Shares or
other forms of leverage which is in excess of interest and dividends due thereon
will cause the value of and dividends, if any, on the Common Stock to rise more
quickly than would otherwise be the case. Conversely, if the investment
performance of the capital contributed by the purchasers of the Notes, the
Preferred Shares or other forms of leverage fails to cover the interest and
dividends on such capital, the value of the Common Stock may decrease more
quickly than would otherwise be the case and dividends thereon will be reduced
or eliminated. This is the speculative effect of "leverage."
Fluctuations in short-term dividend rates will affect the dividend rate per
annum ("Applicable Rate") on the Preferred Shares, and, in turn, will affect the
yield to holders of Common Stock, with increases in such rates decreasing such
yield. Short-term and long-term interest rates change from time to time as does
their relationship to each other (i.e., the slope of the yield curve) depending
upon such factors as supply and demand forces, monetary and tax policies and
investor expectations. Changes in such factors could cause the relationship
between short-term and long-term rates to change (i.e., to flatten or to invert
the slope of the yield curve) so that short-term rates may substantially
increase relative to the rates of longer term obligations in which the Fund may
be invested. To the extent that the Applicable Rate on the Preferred Shares
approaches the net return on the Fund's investment portfolio, the benefit of
leverage to holders of Common Stock will be reduced, and if the Applicable Rate
on the Preferred Shares were to exceed the net return on the Fund's portfolio,
the Fund's leveraged capital structure would result in a lower rate of return to
holders of Common Stock than if the Fund were not leveraged.
The interest rate on the Notes is a fixed annual rate of 6.53%, and the
Applicable Rate as of November 13, 1997 is 5.61% on the Preferred Shares. Based
on the interest rate payable on the Notes and the current Applicable Rate
payable on the Preferred Shares, the annual return of the Fund's portfolio must
equal at least 0.92% in order to cover the interest payments on the Notes and
the dividend payments on the Preferred Shares.
Since any decline in the net asset value of the Fund's investments will be
borne entirely by holders of Common Stock, the effect of leverage in a declining
market would result in a greater decrease in net asset value to holders of
Common Stock than if the Fund were not leveraged, which would likely be
reflected in a greater decline in the market price for the Common Stock. In an
extreme case, if the Fund's current investment income were not sufficient to
meet dividend requirements on the Preferred Shares or interest payments on the
Notes or other forms of leverage, it could be necessary for the Fund to
liquidate certain of its investments, thereby reducing the net asset value
attributable to the Common Stock. In addition, a decline in the net asset value
of the Fund's investments may affect the ability of the Fund to make dividend
payments on its Common Stock and such failure to pay dividends or make
distributions may result in the Fund ceasing to qualify as a regulated
investment company under the Internal Revenue Code. The Notes, the Preferred
Shares or other forms of leverage may constitute a substantial lien and burden
on the Common Stock by reason of their prior claim against the income of the
Fund and against the net assets of the Fund in liquidation. In addition, the
Fund may borrow up to 5% of its total assets for temporary purposes and, to the
extent that Notes or Preferred Shares are repaid or redeemed, may issue or incur
additional senior securities or indebtedness. The Fund has also reserved the
right to borrow money and to enter into reverse repurchase agreements. See
"Investment Policies and Limitations -- Certain Investment Strategies."
At the date hereof, the Fund intends, but is not committed, to add
incremental leverage following the completion of the Offer. There can be no
assurance that the Fund will be able to add leverage in the amounts or at the
time it believes to be most advantageous. The ability to increase, or delays in
increasing, the Fund's leverage could, depending on market conditions, adversely
affect the Fund's earnings and net asset value. The Board of Directors has
authorized the Fund to incur incremental leverage following the completion of
the Offer. If such leverage is added, the percentage of the Fund's assets
representing leverage is expected to be substantially the same upon completion
of the Offer. The Fund anticipates that it will renegotiate and refinance the
terms of its outstanding leverage in 1998. The Fund reserves the right at any
time, if it believes that market conditions are appropriate, to increase its
level of debt or other senior securities to maintain or increase the Fund's
current level of leverage to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act and existing
agreements between the Fund and third parties.
The Board of Directors has authorized the Fund to submit for shareholder
approval at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders in March 1998, an amendment to
the Fund's Articles of Incorporation, authorizing the issuance of a new class of
preferred stock that would be issuable from time to time in the discretion of
the Board of Directors in one or more series. If the amendment is approved by
the shareholders, the Board of Directors currently intends to authorize the
issuance of a new class of preferred stock which would replace the outstanding
Preferred Shares which, in all likelihood, will be redeemed on or before their
expiration date in December 1998 (and as early as March 1998). The Board of
Directors believes that providing the authority to issue new preferred stock,
possibly with more flexible terms than the terms of the outstanding Preferred
Shares will be in the best interest of the Fund and its shareholders because
such new preferred stock over the long term may result in a lower cost of
leverage for the Fund while also providing flexibility to alter the Fund's
capital structure in response to future changes in the capital markets. Although
the Fund will be seeking approval of the foregoing amendment, implementation of
the amendment cannot occur until after such approval, if any, and issuance of
such new preferred stock will remain subject to the discretion of the Board of
Directors which reserves the right to leave the outstanding Preferred Shares in
place.
In connection with the foregoing proposed amendment to the Articles of
Incorporation, the Fund will also seek shareholder approval of an amendment of
the Fund's fundamental investment restriction 1 relating to its borrowing policy
and the issuance of senior securities (as defined in the 1940 Act). The Fund's
fundamental investment restriction with respect to the issuance of senior
securities presently contemplates only the issuance of the Preferred Shares for
the purpose of providing preferred stock financing. Accordingly, in order for
the Fund to be permitted to issue new preferred stock, as described above, it is
also necessary to amend the Fund's investment restriction relating to borrowing
and the issuance of senior securities. Accordingly, the Board has proposed a
corresponding proposal to be submitted to shareholders which would allow the
Fund to borrow money and issue senior securities, including preferred stock, to
the full extent permitted by the 1940 Act. The amended fundamental investment
restriction would provide that the Fund may not borrow money (through reverse
repurchase agreements or otherwise) or issue any senior securities (as defined
in the 1940 Act) except as permitted by the 1940 Act.
The Board has recommended this change to accommodate the possible issuance
of preferred stock pursuant to the foregoing proposed amendment. Under the
amended fundamental investment restriction (if approved by the shareholders),
the Fund could issue senior securities representing indebtedness and/or stock
from time to time as the Board deems appropriate. An amended restriction would
permit the Fund to issue preferred stock, commercial paper, bonds, debentures or
notes, in series or otherwise with such interest rates, dividend rates,
conversion rights and other terms or provisions as are determined by the Board
of Directors consistent with the requirements of the 1940 Act.
The 1940 Act generally imposes a 300% "asset coverage" test for "senior
securities representing indebtedness" and a 200% "asset coverage" test for
"senior securities representing stock." The 1940 Act generally restricts
distributions to holders of common stock and preferred stock while any senior
security representing indebtedness is outstanding and restricts distributions to
the holders of common stock while any senior security representing stock is
outstanding, unless such coverage requirements are satisfied. Furthermore, the
1940 Act generally limits registered closed-end investment companies, such as
the Fund, from issuing more than one class of senior securities representing
indebtedness and more than one class of senior securities representing stock,
subject to various exceptions.
The following table illustrates the effect of leverage (using senior
securities -- i.e., $20 million of Notes and 200 Preferred Shares with a $20
million liquidation preference) on the return of a holder of Common Stock,
assuming a Fund portfolio of approximately $265 million, the annual returns set
forth in such table and assuming a fixed annual rate of 6.53% payable on the
Notes and an Applicable Rate of 5.61% (which is the Applicable Rate as of
November 13, 1997 payable on the Preferred Shares):
<TABLE>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Assumed Return on Portfolio
(Net of Expenses Except Interest) ............... -10% -5% 0% 5% 10%
Corresponding Return to
Common Stockholder .............................. -12.86% -6.97% -1.08% 4.81% 10.70%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
The purpose of the foregoing table is to assist the investor in
understanding the effects of leverage. The figures in the table are hypothetical
and the actual returns to a holder of Common Stock may be greater or less than
those appearing in the table.
DISCOUNT FROM NET ASSET VALUE
Shares of closed-end funds frequently trade at a market price which is less
than the value of the net assets attributable thereto. The possibility that
shares of the Fund will trade at a discount from net asset value is a risk
separate and distinct from the risk that the Fund's net asset value will
decrease. It should be noted, however, that in some cases, shares of closed-end
funds may trade at a premium to net asset value. The Fund's shares have traded
in the market above, at and below net asset value since the commencement of the
Fund's operations. See "Trading and Net Asset Value Information." In addition,
the net asset value of the Fund will change with changes in the value of its
portfolio securities. Because the Fund invests primarily in fixed-income
securities, the net asset value of the shares of the Fund can be expected to
change as general levels of interest rates fluctuate. When interest rates
decline, the value of a fixed-income portfolio can be expected to rise.
Conversely, when interest rates rise, the value of a fixed-income portfolio can
be expected to decline. In addition, in a period of rising short-term interest
rates, the higher cost of the Fund's leverage and/or increasing defaults by
issuers of "high-yield" debt obligations would likely exacerbate such decline in
the Fund's net asset value. The Fund cannot predict whether its shares will
trade at, below or above net asset value. The risk of purchasing shares of a
closed-end investment company that might trade at a discount is more pronounced
for investors who wish to sell their shares in a relatively short period of time
because, for those investors, realization of gain or loss on their investments
is likely to be more dependent upon the existence of a premium or discount than
upon portfolio performance.
"HIGH-YIELD," HIGH RISK INVESTMENTS
The Fund is designed for long-term investors who can accept the risks
entailed in seeking a high level of current income available from investments in
long-term, high-yielding, lower quality, fixed-income securities. Consistent
with a long-term investment approach, investors in the Fund should not rely on
the Fund for their short-term financial needs. The principal value of the lower
quality securities in which the Fund invests will be affected by interest rate
levels, general economic conditions, specific industry conditions and the
creditworthiness of the individual issuer. Although the Fund seeks to reduce
risk by portfolio diversification, extensive credit analysis, and attention to
trends in the economy, industries and financial markets, such efforts will not
eliminate risk.
Fixed-income securities offering the high current income sought by the Fund
will ordinarily be in the lower rating categories of recognized rating agencies
or will be unrated. The values of such securities tend to reflect individual
corporate developments or adverse economic changes to a greater extent than
higher rated securities, which react primarily to fluctuations in the general
level of interest rates. Periods of economic uncertainty and changes generally
result in increased volatility in the market prices and yields of "high-yield,"
high risk securities and thus in the Fund's net asset value. Further, these
fixed-income securities are considered by the Rating Agencies, on balance, as
predominantly speculative with respect to capacity to pay interest and repay
principal in accordance with the terms of the obligation and will generally
involve more credit risk than securities in the higher rating categories; the
Fund may incur additional expenses to the extent it is required to seek recovery
upon a default in the payment of principal of or interest on its portfolio
holdings. The "high-yield," high risk securities held by the Fund are frequently
subordinated to the prior payment of senior indebtedness and are traded in
markets that may be relatively less liquid than the market for higher rated
securities. Changes by recognized rating services in their ratings of any
fixed-income security and in the ability of an issuer to make payments of
interest and principal may also affect the value of the Fund's investments.
Changes in the value of portfolio securities will not necessarily affect cash
income derived from such securities, but will affect the Fund's net asset value.
The Fund will rely on the Investment Adviser's judgment, analysis and experience
in evaluating the creditworthiness of an issuer. In this evaluation, the
Investment Adviser will take into consideration, among other things, the
issuer's financial resources, its sensitivity to economic conditions and trends,
its operating history, the quality of the issuer's management and regulatory
matters.
Some of the lower-rated securities in which the Fund invests were issued to
raise funds in connection with the acquisition of a company, in a so-called
"leveraged buy-out" transaction. The highly leveraged capital structure of such
issuers may make them especially vulnerable to adverse changes in economic
conditions, including rising interest rates.
Generally, when interest rates rise, the value of fixed rate debt
obligations, including "high-yield," high risk securities, tends to decrease;
when interest rates fall, the value of fixed rate debt obligations tends to
increase. In addition, in a period of rising interest rates the higher cost of
the Fund's leverage and/or increasing defaults by issuers of "high-yield" debt
obligations would likely exacerbate any decline in the Fund's net asset value.
If an issuer of a "high-yield," high risk security containing a redemption or
call provision exercises either provision in a declining interest rate market,
the Fund would have to replace the security, which could result in a decreased
return for shareholders.
The market for "high-yield," high risk securities has expanded rapidly in
recent years and is relatively new. This expanded market has not yet completely
weathered an economic downturn. A further economic downturn or an increase in
interest rates could have a negative effect on the "high-yield," high risk
securities market and on the market value of the "high-yield," high risk
securities held by the Fund, as well as on the ability of the issuers of such
securities to repay principal and interest on their borrowings. During 1989 and
1990, the level of "high-yield" debt security defaults increased as many issuers
were unable to obtain funds through financial intermediaries or the public
"high-yield" market. The effect of these developments on the Fund was a
substantial decline in the Fund's net asset value and a substantial reduction in
the Fund's monthly dividend. Also, the forced liquidation of a substantial
portion of the Fund's portfolio in order to repay the Senior Extendible Notes
resulted in the realization of substantial capital losses, and this severely
limited the ability of the Fund to return to its original net asset value as the
"high-yield" market improved. The "high-yield" market decline reversed in the
fourth quarter of 1990 and by midyear 1991, after reinvesting a substantial
amount of its cash, the Fund's net asset value had improved substantially but to
a level far less than the net asset value at the time the Fund commenced
operations.
The "high-yield" market, as measured by the Credit Suisse First Boston High
Yield Index, posted total annual returns of 43.75%, 16.66%, 18.91%, -0.97%,
17.38% and 12.42% for the calendar years 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995 and 1996,
respectively. The ten year U.S. Treasury Bond produced a total return of 16.46%,
6.52%, 11.94%, -6.08%, 23.68% and 0.89% for the calendar years 1991, 1992, 1993,
1994, 1995 and 1996, respectively. See "Financial Highlights" for information
concerning the Fund's return.
New issue activity of "high-yield" debt securities was low in 1991, by
historical standards, totaling $10.1 billion with "high-yield" debt retirements
totaling $26.0 billion. Net new issue activity of "high-yield" debt securities
totaled $11.4 billion, $46.1 billion, $22.2 billion, $26.7 billion and $60.2
billion for the calendar years 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995 and 1996, respectively.
For the period January 1, 1997 through October 31, 1997, net new issue activity
of "high yield" debt securities totaled $112.7 billion. The statistical
information with respect to new issue activity is based on information the Fund
obtained from the Credit Suisse First Boston High Yield Handbook. The spread
between the yield on U.S. Treasury securities and the "high-yield" market has
fluctuated between 300 and 600 basis points (3.0% to 6.0%) during the 1992 to
1996 period, which is more in line with the historical spread relationship. For
the period January 1, 1997 through October 31, 1997, the spread fluctuated
between 315 and 381 basis points (3.2% to 3.8%).
Since 1977, the historical weighted default rate on "high-yield" debt
securities has been 3.29%. The default rates on "high-yield" debt securities for
the calendar years 1990, 1991, 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995 and 1996 were 7.98%,
9.33%, 2.89%, 0.96%, 0.44%, 2.24% and 1.14%, respectively and the default rate
for the period January 1, 1997 through October 31, 1997 was 1.33%. The defaulted
amount of "high-yield" debt securities was $18.1 billion in 1990, $20.7 billion
in 1991, $6.5 billion in 1992, $24.0 billion in 1993, $1.3 billion in 1994, $6.7
billion in 1995, $4.2 billion in 1996 and $3.1 billion for the period January 1,
1997 through October 31, 1997. The statistical information with respect to
historical default rates and amounts is based on information the Fund obtained
from the Credit Suisse First Boston High Yield Handbook.
The credit ratings issued by credit rating services may not fully reflect
the true risks of an investment. For example, credit ratings typically evaluate
the safety of principal and interest payments, not market value risk, of
"high-yield," high risk securities. Also, credit rating agencies may fail to
change on a timely basis a credit rating to reflect changes in economic or
company conditions that affect a security's market value. Although the
Investment Adviser considers ratings of recognized rating services such as
Moody's and S&P, the Investment Adviser primarily relies on its own credit
analysis, which includes a study of existing debt, capital structure, ability to
service debt and to pay dividends, the issuer's sensitivity to economic
conditions, its operating history and the current trend of earnings. The
Investment Adviser continually monitors the investments in the Fund's portfolio
and carefully evaluates whether to dispose of or retain "high-yield," high risk
securities whose credit ratings have changed. As of October 31, 1997,
approximately 94.22% of the market value of the Fund's total investments was
represented by fixed-income securities regarded by the Rating Agencies as below
investment grade (that is rated Ba1 or lower by Moody's or BB+ or lower by S&P).
At times a major portion of an issue of lower-rated securities may be held
by relatively few institutional purchasers. Although the Fund generally
considers such securities to be liquid because of the availability of an
institutional market for such securities, under adverse market or economic
conditions or in the event of adverse changes in the financial condition of the
issuer, the Fund may find it more difficult to sell such securities when the
Investment Adviser believes it advisable to do so or may be able to sell such
securities only at prices lower than if the securities were more widely held. In
such circumstances, the Fund may also find it more difficult to determine the
fair value of such securities for purposes of computing the Fund's net asset
value. The Fund, in most instances, utilizes an independent pricing service to
determine the fair value of its securities for financial statement purposes
since market quotations are not readily ascertainable. Securities for which
market quotations are not readily available will be valued at fair value as
determined in good faith by or under the direction of the Board of Directors of
the Fund. The Fund also purchases a significant number of Rule 144A securities
which are considered "restricted" securities but which may be treated as liquid
by the Fund in appropriate circumstances, in accordance with SEC guidelines. The
Investment Adviser, pursuant to Board supervision, makes a determination
regarding the liquidity of such securities prior to their purchase and continues
to analyze the liquidity of such securities. Investing in Rule 144A Securities,
however, could have the effect of increasing the illiquidity of the Fund's
assets to the extent that qualified institutional buyers become, for a time,
uninterested in purchasing these securities.
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
It is the Fund's present policy, which may be changed by the Board of
Directors, to pay dividends on a monthly basis to holders of Common Stock of
investment company taxable income and to distribute any net short-term capital
gains and net capital gains annually. See "Dividends and Distributions; Dividend
Reinvestment Plan." Subject to market conditions, the Fund seeks to provide
holders of its Common Stock with a relatively stable level of dividends per
share. However, there can be no assurance that the Fund will be able to maintain
its current level of dividends per share, and the Board of Directors may, in its
sole discretion, change the Fund's current dividend policy or its current level
of dividends per share in response to market or other conditions. The Fund's
ability to maintain a stable level of dividends is a function of the yield
generated by the Fund's investments, which depends on market conditions at the
time those investments are made and on the performance of those investments. To
the extent that the Fund's portfolio investments generate income exceeding that
which is required to pay any target level of dividends set by the Board of
Directors, the Fund may decide to retain and accumulate that portion of the
Fund's income which exceeds such dividend level and may pay applicable taxes
thereon, including any federal income or excise taxes. Alternatively, to the
extent that the Fund's current income is not sufficient to pay any target level
of dividends set by the Board of Directors, the Fund may distribute to holders
of its Common Stock all or a portion of any retained earnings or make a return
of capital to maintain such target level. The Fund currently has accumulated
undistributed net investment income upon which it has paid taxes. Based on
information provided by the Investment Adviser on current market conditions in
the "high yield" bond market and available leverage opportunities, the Board of
Directors believes the Offer will not result in a change in the Fund's current
level of dividends per share. See "Financial Highlights" and "The Offer --
Purpose of the Offer."
The Fund will not be permitted to declare dividends or other distributions
with respect to the Common Stock or the Preferred Shares or purchase shares of
Common Stock or Preferred Shares unless at the time thereof the Fund meets
certain asset coverage requirements, including those imposed by the 1940 Act.
Failure to pay dividends or other distributions could result in the Fund ceasing
to qualify as a regulated investment company under the Internal Revenue Code.
See "Federal Taxation" and "Description of Capital Stock --Dividends and
Distributions." Further, upon any failure to pay dividends in an amount equal to
two full years of dividends with respect to the Preferred Shares, the holders
thereof shall have the right to elect a majority of the Directors until all
accrued dividends have been provided for or paid. In the event the Fund fails to
satisfy certain asset coverage requirements, the Fund may be required to effect
mandatory partial redemptions of the Notes or (subject to certain limitations)
Preferred Shares or in certain circumstances may result in the termination of
the Surety Bond and the mandatory redemption of all of the Notes and the
Preferred Shares. Redemptions of Preferred Shares and/or further redemptions of
Notes would reduce the Fund's leverage and could negatively affect potential
returns with respect to the Common Stock.
PROPOSED REVERSE STOCK SPLIT
The Board of Directors has authorized the Fund to submit for shareholder
approval at the Annual Meeting of Shareholders in March 1998,an amendment to the
Fund's Articles of Incorporation authorizing a one-for-three reverse stock split
of the outstanding shares of Common Stock. The purpose of the proposed reverse
stock split is to cause a commensurate increase in the market price of the
Common Stock, thereby possibly increasing the marginability and liquidity of the
Common Stock. Currently, common stock is generally not marginable if it is
trading at a market price of less than $5.00 per share.
--------------------
Given the above-described investment risks inherent in the Fund, investment
in shares of the Fund should not be considered a complete investment program and
is not appropriate for all investors. Investors should carefully consider their
ability to assume these risks before making an investment in the Fund.
<PAGE>
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
The Directors and officers of the Fund, their addresses, their ages and
their principal occupations for at least the past five years are set forth
below.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
POSITIONS HELD PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS
NAME AND ADDRESS WITH REGISTRANT AGE DURING PAST 5 YEARS
- ---------------- --------------- ---- ---------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Richard E. Omohundro, Jr.*(3) ........ President and Director 57 President or Co-President of Prospect
Prospect Street Investment Street Investment Management Co.,
Management Co., Inc. Inc. since June 1988.
60 State Street
Boston, MA 02109
John A. Frabotta*(2) ................. Vice President, Treasurer, 55 Vice President of Prospect Street
Prospect Street Investment Director and Chief Investment Management Co., Inc.
Management Co., Inc. Investment Officer since June 1988. Director of
60 State Street BondNet Trading Systems, Inc.
Boston, MA 02109
John S. Albanese(1)(2) ............... Director 45 Senior Counsel to Washington
8955 Mountain Ash Court Headquarters Services (a Department
Springfield, VA 22153 of Defense Agency) since June 1992.
Lieutenant Colonel of the United States
Army, serving on active duty from 1977
to 1992 in several legal positions.
C. William Carey(1)(3) ............... Director 60 President, Carey Associates, Inc.
Carey Associates, Inc. since January 1997. Chairman and
177 Milk Street Chief Executive Officer of Town &
Suite 605 Country Corporation from 1965 until
Boston, MA 02109 December 1996.
Joseph G. Cote*(3) ................... Director 55 Co-President of Prospect Street
Prospect Street Investment Investment Management Co., Inc.
Management Co., Inc. from August 1995 to present and
250 Park Avenue from February 1989 to November
New York, NY 10177 1993. Shareholder of Prospect
Street Investment Management Co.,
Inc. from 1989 to present.
Harlan D. Platt(1)(3) ................ Director 47 Professor of Finance and Insurance,
Northeastern University College Northeastern University, College of
of Business Administration Business Administration, since
413 Hayden Hall 1981.
Boston, MA 02115
Christopher E. Roshier(3)(4) ......... Director 51 Corporate Finance Director of
120 Strawberry Vale European Capital Company Limited
Twickenham, since 1990. Director of a number of
Middlesex TWI 4SH other public and private companies
United Kingdom in the United Kingdom.
Karen J. Thelen ...................... Secretary 45 Vice President of Prospect Street
Prospect Street Investment Investment Management Co., Inc.
Management Co., Inc. since December 1992. Assistant Vice
60 State Street President of Prospect Street
Boston, MA 02109 Investment Management Co., Inc.
from December 1988 to December
1992.
</TABLE>
- ----------
* Directors who are "interested persons" of the Fund, as defined in the 1940
Act.
(1) Directors who are members of the Audit Committee of the Fund's Board of
Directors.
(2) Elected by holders of the Preferred Shares.
(3) Elected by holders of the Common Stock and Preferred Shares voting together.
(4) Mr. Roshier is not a resident of the United States and has not authorized an
agent to receive any notices. It may not be possible, therefore, for
investors to effect service of process within the United States upon Mr.
Roshier or to enforce against him, in the U.S. courts or foreign courts,
judgments obtained in U.S. courts predicated upon the civil liability
provisions of the Federal securities laws of the United States. In addition,
it is not certain that a foreign court would enforce, in original actions,
liabilities against Mr. Roshier predicated solely upon the U.S. securities
laws.
Pursuant to the Articles of Incorporation, holders of the Common Stock have
voting rights of one vote per share and holders of the Preferred Shares have
voting rights of one vote per $1,000 of liquidation preference without regard to
any liquidation preference attributable to accumulated and unpaid dividends
(i.e., 100 votes per Preferred Share); provided that all the votes represented
by a single Preferred Share must be voted together. Under the Articles of
Incorporation and the 1940 Act, the holders of the Preferred Shares, as a
separate class, are entitled to elect two directors (at least one of whom is not
an "interested person" as defined in the 1940 Act) with the other five Directors
(at least two of whom are not "interested persons" as defined in the 1940 Act)
elected by the holders of the Common Stock and the Preferred Shares, voting
together; provided, however, that the holders of the Preferred Shares (or
Financial Security pursuant to the Surety Arrangement), as a separate class,
will be entitled to elect as a class the smallest number of additional Directors
as shall be necessary to assure that a majority of the Directors has been
elected by the holders of the Preferred Shares if the Fund fails to pay
accumulated dividends on the Preferred Shares in an amount equal to two full
years of dividends. See "Description of Capital Stock -- Voting." Election of
Directors is noncumulative; accordingly, holders of a majority of the voting
power represented by the outstanding shares of Common Stock and Preferred
Shares, voting together as a single class, or a majority of the outstanding
Preferred Shares, voting separately as a class, may elect all of the Directors
who are subject to election by such class, as the case may be.
The Fund pays each Director not affiliated with the Investment Adviser a fee
of $10,000 per year plus $2,000 per Directors' meeting attended in person and
$1,000 per Directors' meeting attended by telephone, together with actual
out-of-pocket expenses relating to attendance at such meetings. In addition, the
members of the Fund's Audit Committee, which consists of certain of the Fund's
noninterested Directors, receive $1,000 for each Audit Committee meeting
attended, together with actual out-of-pocket expenses relating to attendance at
such meetings. Directors of the Fund, other than directors who are affiliates of
the Investment Adviser, earned for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1997
aggregate remuneration of $85,000.
The following table summarizes the compensation paid to the Directors and
Officers of the Fund for the fiscal year ended October 31, 1997. The Fund is
not part of a fund complex.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PENSION OR
RETIREMENT
BENEFITS ESTIMATED
NAME OF AGGREGATE ACCRUED AS ANNUAL TOTAL
DIRECTOR COMPENSATION PART OF FUND BENEFITS UPON COMPENSATION
OR OFFICER FROM FUND EXPENSES RETIREMENT FROM FUND
- ---------- ---------------- ------------ ------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
John S. Albanese $22,000 none none $22,000
C. William Carey $22,000 none none $22,000
Joseph G. Cote none none none none
John A. Frabotta none none none none
Richard E. Omohundro, Jr. none none none none
Harlan D. Platt $22,000 none none $22,000
Christopher E. Roshier $19,000 none none $19,000
</TABLE>
The Articles of Incorporation limit the personal liability of Directors and
officers to the Fund and its shareholders for monetary damages to the fullest
extent permitted by Maryland law. Based upon Maryland law and the Articles of
Incorporation, the Fund's Directors and officers have no liability to the Fund
and its shareholders for monetary damages except (a) for, and to the extent of,
actual receipt of an improper benefit in money, property or services, or (b) in
respect of an adjudication based upon a finding of active and deliberate
dishonesty which was material to the cause of action adjudicated. In accordance
with the 1940 Act, the Articles of Incorporation do not protect or purport to
protect Directors and officers against any liability to the Fund or its security
holders to which they would be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad
faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of duties involved in the conduct
of their office.
In addition, the Articles of Incorporation and bylaws provide that the Fund
will indemnify its Directors and officers against liabilities and expenses in
connection with the performance of their duties on behalf of the Fund to the
fullest extent permitted by Maryland law, subject to the applicable requirements
of the 1940 Act and the interpretation by the Staff of the SEC of such
requirements. Under Maryland law and the Articles of Incorporation, the Fund is
entitled and obligated to indemnify each Director or officer in connection with
any proceeding to which such Director or officer is made a party by reason of
service in his capacity as a Director or officer, unless it is established that
(1) the act or omission of the Director or officer was material to the matter
giving rise to the proceeding and was committed in bad faith or was the result
of active and deliberate dishonesty, or (2) the Director or officer actually
received an improper personal benefit in money, property or services, or (3) in
the case of any criminal proceeding, the Director or officer had reasonable
cause to believe that the act or omission was unlawful. The foregoing standards
apply both as to third party actions and derivative suits by or in the right of
the Fund. Indemnification may be against judgments, penalties, fines,
settlements and reasonable expenses actually incurred by the Director or officer
in connection with the proceeding. If the proceeding is one by or in the right
of the Fund, indemnification may not be made in respect of any proceeding in
which the Director or officer shall have been adjudged to be liable to the Fund.
In the view of the Staff of the SEC, an indemnification provision is consistent
with the 1940 Act if it (i) precludes indemnification for any liability, whether
or not there is an adjudication of liability, arising by reason of willful
misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of duties as
described in Section 17(h) and (i) of the 1940 Act ("disabling conduct") and
(ii) sets forth reasonable and fair means for determining whether
indemnification shall be made; in the case of the Fund, "reasonable and fair
means" would include (1) a final decision on the merits by a court or other body
before whom the proceeding was brought that the person to be indemnified
("indemnitee") was not liable by reason of disabling conduct (including a
dismissal for insufficiency of evidence) and (2) a reasonable determination,
based upon a review of the facts, that the indemnitee was not liable by reason
of disabling conduct, by (a) the vote of a majority of a quorum of Directors who
are neither "interested persons" of the Fund as defined in Section 2(a) (19) of
the 1940 Act nor parties to the proceeding, or (b) a written opinion of
independent legal counsel.
The indemnification rights provided or authorized by the Articles of
Incorporation or applicable law are not exclusive of any other rights to which a
person seeking indemnification may be entitled. The Fund has also obtained
liability insurance at its expense for the benefit of its Directors and officers
which includes coverage for liability arising from the performance of their
duties on behalf of the Fund which is not inconsistent with the indemnification
provisions of the Articles of Incorporation and applicable law.
HOLDINGS OF PREFERRED SHARES AND COMMON STOCK
As far as is known to the Fund, no person owned beneficially five percent or
more of the outstanding shares of Common Stock of the Fund at October 31, 1997.
DTC holds of record 90% of the outstanding shares of Common Stock at October 31,
1997. All of the outstanding Preferred Shares, which represent less than 1% of
the voting power of the Fund's outstanding shares (i.e., to the extent that the
Common Stock and Preferred Shares are voted together), were owned of record by
one institutional holder. As far as is known to the Fund, no person other than
DTC owned of record or beneficially, shares of the Fund representing more than
five percent of the voting power of the Fund's outstanding shares. The
Investment Adviser of the Fund beneficially owned 80,072 shares of Common Stock
at October 31, 1997.
As of October 31, 1997, all Directors and officers of the Fund, owned in the
aggregate less than 1% of the Common Stock. As of that date, no Director or
officer owned any of the Fund's Preferred Shares.
THE INVESTMENT ADVISER
THE INVESTMENT ADVISER
The Investment Adviser is Prospect Street(R) Investment Management Co.,
Inc., a Massachusetts corporation having its principal offices at 60 State
Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109. Organized in June 1988, the Investment
Adviser provides institutional clients with investment management services.
Richard E. Omohundro, Jr., Co-President of the Investment Adviser, served as
a Vice President (1978 to 1983) and a Managing Director (1983 to 1988) of
Merrill Lynch and was Co-Manager of the Merrill Lynch High-yield Bond Group from
1978 through 1987. During that period, the Group raised approximately $13.6
billion in new "high-yield" securities through 107 issues and provided one of
the largest secondary trading markets for "high-yield" securities. In 1987, the
Group raised approximately $5.8 billion in new offerings of "high-yield"
securities and employed over 40 persons. Mr. Omohundro provides general advisory
assistance to, analyzes certain policy considerations with, and consults on a
regular basis with, the Fund's portfolio manager.
John A. Frabotta, a Vice President of the Investment Adviser, assists Mr.
Omohundro in carrying on the business of the Investment Adviser. Mr. Frabotta
was a Vice President of Merrill Lynch from 1979 through June 1988, during
which time he performed various research, structuring and marketing functions
involving "high-yield" securities. Mr. Frabotta has served as the Fund's
portfolio manager since September, 1990, responsible for the day-to-day
management of the Fund's portfolio.
ADVISORY AGREEMENT
The Investment Advisory Agreement between the Investment Adviser and the
Fund (the "Advisory Agreement") provides that, subject to the direction of the
Board of Directors of the Fund and the applicable provisions of the 1940 Act,
the Investment Adviser is responsible for the actual management of the Fund's
portfolio. The responsibility for making decisions to buy, sell or hold a
particular investment rests with the Investment Adviser, subject to review by
the Board of Directors of the Fund and compliance with the applicable provisions
of the 1940 Act.
The Investment Adviser is not dependent on any other party in providing the
investment advisory services required for management of the Fund's portfolio.
The Investment Adviser may, however, consider analyses from various sources,
including broker-dealers with which the Fund does business. The Investment
Adviser is also responsible for providing the Fund with such executive, data
processing, clerical, accounting and bookkeeping services and statistical and
research data as are deemed advisable by the Fund's Board of Directors (although
the expenses thereof will be borne by the Fund as specified below), except to
the extent these services are provided by an administrator or an accounting firm
hired by the Fund.
Under the Advisory Agreement with the Fund, the Investment Adviser receives
a monthly advisory fee equal to 0.65% (on an annual basis) of the average weekly
value of the total assets of the Fund, less accrued and unpaid dividends on the
Preferred Shares and less accrued liabilities (excluding the principal amount of
the Fund's "senior securities representing indebtedness" as defined in the 1940
Act, not to exceed $50 million, and excluding the liquidation preference of the
Preferred Shares and any other preferred shares or senior securities issued in
lieu thereof) up to and including $175,000,000 of such managed assets, 0.55% on
the next $50,000,000 of such managed assets and 0.50% of the excess of such
managed assets over $225,000,000. For the fiscal years ended October 31, 1994,
1995, 1996 and 1997, the dollar value of total advisory fees earned by the
Investment Adviser aggregated approximately $807,770, $874,812, $928,792 and
$1,146,665, respectively. For a period of one year, the Investment Adviser
waived its advisory fee with respect to the increase in the Fund's managed
assets attributable to the exercise of rights in the rights offering by the Fund
in June 1996.
The Investment Adviser will benefit from the Offer because the Investment
Adviser's fee is based on the average weekly managed assets of the Fund. It is
not possible to state precisely the amount of additional compensation the
Investment Adviser will receive as a result of the Offer because it is not known
how many Shares will be subscribed for and because the proceeds of the Offer
will be invested in additional portfolio securities which will fluctuate in
value. However, based on the estimated proceeds from the Offer assuming all the
Rights are exercised in full at the Subscription Price of $3.80 per Share, the
Investment Adviser would receive additional annual advisory fees of
approximately $272,000 as a result of the increase in assets under management
over the Fund's current assets under management. Three of the Fund's Directors
who voted to authorize the Offer are "interested persons" of the Fund as that
term is defined in the 1940 Act. These three Directors could benefit indirectly
from the Offer because of their affiliations with the Investment Adviser. The
other Directors who voted to authorize the Offer are not "interested persons" of
the Fund.
The Fund bears all costs of its operation other than those incurred by the
Investment Adviser under the Advisory Agreement. In particular, the Fund pays
investment advisory fees, fees and expenses associated with the Fund's
administration, record keeping and accounting, fees and expenses for the
custodian of the Fund's assets and Bankers Trust Company, the surety custodian
(the "Surety Custodian") under a Surety Custody Agreement (as defined herein),
the premium payable in connection with the Surety Bond, legal, accounting and
auditing fees, taxes, expenses of preparing prospectuses and shareholder
reports, registration fees and expenses, fees and expenses for the transfer and
dividend disbursing agent, the compensation and expenses of the Directors who
are not otherwise employed by or affiliated with the Investment Adviser or any
of its affiliates, and any extraordinary expenses. The Investment Adviser will
reimburse the Fund for any expenses (excluding brokerage commissions, interest,
taxes and litigation expenses) paid or incurred by the Fund in any year in
excess of the most restrictive expense limitation which is imposed by any state
and to which the Fund is then subject, if any. The Fund is not known to be
subject to any state expense limitations. Under the Advisory Agreement, the
Investment Adviser provides the Fund with office space, facilities and business
equipment and provides the services of executive and clerical personnel for
administering certain of the other affairs of the Fund. The Investment Adviser
compensates Directors of the Fund if such persons are employed by the Investment
Adviser or its affiliates.
The Advisory Agreement became effective on March 1, 1994 upon approval by
shareholders at a meeting held on March 1, 1994 and replaced the advisory
agreement in effect prior thereto. The Advisory Agreement as approved by the
shareholders included an increase in the level of advisory fees from 0.50% (on
an annual basis) of the Fund's annual net assets to the fees set forth above.
The Advisory Agreement was initially effective for a two year period and will
continue in effect from year to year thereafter if approved annually (i) by the
Board of Directors of the Fund or by the holders of a majority of the Fund's
outstanding voting securities (as defined under "Investment Policies and
Limitations"), voting as a single class, and (ii) by a majority of the Directors
who are not parties to the Advisory Agreement or "interested persons" (as
defined in the 1940 Act) of any such party. At a meeting held on December 10,
1997, the Board of Directors (including all Directors who are not "interested
persons" of the Fund, as defined under the 1940 Act) unanimously approved the
renewal of the Advisory Agreement for a one year term expiring on February 28,
1999. The Advisory Agreement terminates on its assignment by either party and
may be terminated without penalty on not less than 30 nor more than 60 days'
prior written notice at the option of either party thereto, or by the
affirmative vote of the holders of a majority of the Fund's outstanding voting
securities, voting as a single class.
The Advisory Agreement provides that the Investment Adviser shall only be
liable for willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless
disregard of its duties and obligations under the Advisory Agreement.
PORTFOLIO TRADING
The Investment Adviser is responsible for decisions to buy and sell
securities and other portfolio holdings for the Fund, the selection of brokers
and dealers to effect the transactions and the negotiation of brokerage
commissions, if any. Fixed-income securities are generally traded on a "net"
basis with dealers acting as principals for their own accounts without a stated
commission, although the price of the security will likely include a profit to
the dealer. In underwritten offerings, securities are usually purchased at a
fixed price which includes an amount of compensation to the underwriter,
generally referred to as the underwriter's concession or discount. On occasion,
certain money market instruments may be purchased directly from an issuer, in
which case no commissions or discounts are paid.
In placing orders for portfolio securities of the Fund, the Investment
Adviser is required to give primary consideration to obtaining the most
favorable price and efficient execution. This means that the Investment Adviser
will seek to execute each transaction at a price and commission, if any, which
provides the most favorable total cost or proceeds reasonably attainable in the
circumstances. In seeking the most favorable price and execution, the Investment
Adviser, having in mind the Fund's best interests, will consider all factors it
deems relevant, including, by way of illustration, price, the size of the
transaction, the nature of the market for the security, the amount of
commission, the timing of the transaction taking into account market prices and
trends, the reputation, experience and financial stability of the broker-dealer
involved and the quality of service rendered by the broker-dealer in other
transactions. Though the Investment Adviser generally seeks reasonably
competitive spreads or commissions, the Fund will not necessarily be paying the
lowest spread of commission available. Within the framework of the policy of
obtaining the most favorable price and efficient execution, the Investment
Adviser will consider research and investment services provided by brokers and
dealers who effect or are parties to portfolio transactions with the Fund, the
Investment Adviser or the Investment Adviser's other clients. Such research and
investment services are those which brokerage houses customarily provide to
institutional investors and include statistical and economic data and research
reports on particular issuers and industries. Such services are used by the
Investment Adviser in connection with all of its investment activities and some
of such services obtained in connection with the execution of transactions for
the Fund may be used in managing other investment accounts. Conversely, brokers
furnishing such services may be selected for the execution of transactions for
such other accounts, and the services furnished by such brokers may be used by
the Investment Adviser in providing investment management for the Fund.
Commission rates are established pursuant to negotiations based on the quality
and quantity of execution services provided by the broker or dealer in light of
generally prevailing rates. The management fee paid by the Fund will not be
reduced because the Investment Adviser and/or other clients receive such
services. The allocation of orders and the commission rates paid by the Fund
will be reviewed periodically by the Board of Directors.
As permitted by Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as
amended (the "1934 Act"), the Investment Adviser may cause the Fund to pay a
broker-dealer which provides "brokerage and research services" (as defined in
the 1934 Act) to the Investment Adviser, an amount of disclosed commission for
effecting a securities transaction for the Fund in excess of the commission
which another broker-dealer would have charged for effecting that transaction.
For the fiscal years ended October 31, 1995, 1996 and 1997, the Fund paid no
brokerage commissions for the execution of portfolio transactions. The rate of
portfolio turnover for the fiscal years ended October 31, 1995, 1996 and 1997
was 80.71%, 108.33% and 176.04%, respectively.
DETERMINATION OF NET ASSET VALUE
Net asset value of the Common Stock will be determined no less frequently
than the close of trading on the Exchange (generally 4:00 P.M. New York City
time) on the last Business Day of each week (generally Friday). It will be
determined by dividing the value of the net assets of the Fund (for the purpose
of determining the net asset value per share of the Common Stock, the value of
the Fund's net assets shall be deemed to equal the value of the Fund's assets
less (i) the Fund's liabilities (including the outstanding principal amount of
the Notes and unpaid interest on the Notes), (ii) accumulated and unpaid
dividends on the outstanding Preferred Shares and (iii) the aggregate
liquidation value (i.e., $100,000 per share) of the outstanding Preferred
Shares), by the total number of shares of Common Stock outstanding. In valuing
the Fund's assets for all purposes other than the determination of the
discounted value of such assets pursuant to the respective Investment
Guidelines, portfolio securities that are actively traded in the
over-the-counter market, including listed securities for which the primary
market is believed to be over-the-counter, will be valued at the mean between
the most recently quoted bid and asked prices provided by the principal market
makers. Any security or option for which the primary market is on an exchange
will be valued at the last sale price on such exchange on the day of valuation
or, if there was no sale on such day, the last bid price quoted on such day.
Options for which the primary market is not on an exchange or which are not
listed on an exchange will be valued at market value or fair value if no market
exists. Securities and assets for which market quotations are not readily
available will be valued at fair value as determined in good faith by or under
the direction of the Board of Directors of the Fund. While no single standard
for determining fair value exists, as a general rule, the current fair value of
a security would appear to be the amount which the Fund could expect to receive
upon its current sale. Some, but not necessarily all, of the general factors
which may be considered in determining fair value include: (i) the fundamental
analytical data relating to the investment; (ii) the nature and duration of
restrictions on disposition of the securities; and (iii) an evaluation of the
forces which influence the market in which these securities are purchased and
sold. Without limiting or including all of the specific factors which may be
considered in determining fair value, some of the specific factors include: type
of security, financial condition of the issuer, cost at date of purchase, size
of holding, discount from market value, value of unrestricted securities of the
same type at the time of purchase, special reports prepared by analysts,
information as to any transaction or offers with respect to the security,
existence of merger proposals or tender offers affecting the securities, price
and extent of public trading in similar securities of the issuer or comparable
companies, and other relevant matters.
Short-term debt securities which mature in less than 60 days will be valued
at amortized cost if their term to maturity from the date of acquisition by the
Fund was less than 60 days or by amortizing their value on the 61st day prior to
maturity if their term to maturity from the date of acquisition by the Fund was
more than 60 days, unless this method is determined by the Board of Directors
not to represent fair value. Repurchase agreements will be valued at cost plus
accrued interest.
SHARE REPURCHASES; CONVERSION TO OPEN-END STATUS
REPURCHASE OF SHARES
Shares of closed-end investment companies frequently trade at a discount
from net asset value. To address this possibility, the Board of Directors
presently contemplates that the Fund may from time to time consider either the
repurchase of shares of its Common Stock on the open market or the making of
tender offers for such Common Stock. Since commencement of the Fund's
operations, no such open market purchases or tender offers have been made. The
Fund may borrow money to finance the repurchase of shares, subject to compliance
with 1940 Act Asset Coverage, Section 18 of the 1940 Act and the other
limitations described under "Investment Policies and Limitations -- Certain
Investment Strategies -- Additional Leverage." Shares of Common Stock may not be
repurchased, however, (i) if applicable asset coverage requirements under the
1940 Act (i.e., 300% with respect to the Notes and 200% with respect to the
Preferred Shares) are not met or would not be met following such repurchase,
(ii) when payments of principal of or interest on the Notes are in default,
(iii) when dividends on the Preferred Shares are in arrears or Surety Asset
Coverage is not maintained or (iv) if otherwise prohibited by applicable law.
There can be no assurance that repurchases or tenders will result in the
Common Stock trading at a price which is equal to its net asset value. The Fund
anticipates that the market price of the Common Stock will usually vary from net
asset value. The market price of the Common Stock will be determined, among
other things, by the relative demand for and supply of the Common Stock in the
market, the Fund's investment performance, the Fund's dividends and yield and
investor perception of the Fund's overall attractiveness as an investment as
compared with other investment alternatives. Nevertheless, the fact that the
Common Stock may be the subject of repurchases or tender offers from time to
time may enhance its attractiveness to investors and thus reduce the spread
between market price and net asset value that may otherwise exist.
Although the Board of Directors believes that Common Stock repurchases and
tenders generally would have a favorable effect on the market price of the
Common Stock, it should be recognized that the acquisition of Common Stock of
the Fund will decrease the total assets of the Fund and therefore have the
effect of increasing the Fund's expense ratio. Furthermore, any interest on
borrowings to finance Common Stock repurchase transactions will reduce the
Fund's net income.
Even if a tender offer has been made, it is the Board of Directors'
announced policy, which may be changed by the Board of Directors, not to accept
tenders or effect repurchases if (1) such transactions, if consummated, would
(a) result in the delisting of the Common Stock from the Exchange (the Exchange
having advised the Fund that it would consider delisting if the aggregate market
value of the Fund's outstanding publicly held Common Stock is less than $5.0
million, the number of publicly held shares of Common Stock falls below 600,000
or the number of round-lot holders falls below 1,200), (b) result in a violation
of applicable asset coverage requirements, or (c) impair the Fund's status as a
regulated investment company under the Internal Revenue Code (which would make
the Fund a taxable entity, causing the Fund's income to be taxed at the
corporate level in addition to the taxation of shareholders who receive
dividends from the Fund); (2) the Fund would not be able to liquidate portfolio
securities in an orderly manner and consistent with the Fund's investment
objective and policies in order to repurchase Common Stock; or (3) there is, in
the Board's judgment, any material (a) legal action or proceeding instituted or
threatened challenging such transactions or otherwise materially adversely
affecting the Fund, (b) suspension of or limitation on prices for trading
securities generally on the Exchange or any foreign exchange on which portfolio
securities of the Fund are traded, (c) declaration of a banking moratorium by
federal, state or foreign authorities or any suspension of payment by banks in
the United States, New York State or foreign countries in which the Fund
invests, (d) limitation affecting the Fund or issuers of its portfolio
securities imposed by federal, state or foreign authorities on the extension of
credit by lending institutions or on the exchange of foreign currency, (e)
commencement of war, armed hostilities or other international or national
calamity directly or indirectly involving the United States or other countries
in which the Fund invests, or (f) other event or condition which would have a
material adverse effect on the Fund or its shareholders if shares of Common
Stock were repurchased. The Board of Directors may modify these conditions from
time to time in light of experience and may determine to make a tender offer
even if one of the above conditions exists. If a tender offer is made, such
tender offer shall be made in accordance with the 1934 Act and the 1940 Act.
Any tender offer made by the Fund will be at a price equal to the net asset
value of the shares on a date subsequent to the Fund's receipt of all tenders.
Each offer will be made and shareholders notified in accordance with the
requirements of the 1934 Act and the 1940 Act, either by publication or mailing
or both. Each offering document will contain such information as is prescribed
by such laws and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder. The Fund will
purchase shares tendered by a shareholder at any time during the period of the
tender offer in accordance with the terms of the offer unless it determines to
accept none of them (based upon one of the conditions set forth above). Each
person tendering shares will be required to submit a check in an amount not to
exceed $25 payable to the Fund, which will be used to help defray the costs
associated with effecting the tender offer. This fee will be imposed upon each
tendering shareholder whose tendered shares are purchased in the tender offer
and will be imposed regardless of the number of shares purchased. The Fund
expects the cost to the Fund of effecting a tender offer will be greater than
the aggregate of all service charges received from those who tender their
shares. Costs associated with the tender offer will be charged against capital
of the Fund. During the period of a tender offer, the Fund's shareholders will
be able to obtain the Fund's current net asset value by use of a toll-free
telephone number.
CONVERSION TO OPEN-END STATUS
The Fund's Board of Directors may elect to submit to the holders of the
Common Stock and the Preferred Shares at any time a proposal to convert the Fund
to an open-end investment company and in connection therewith to redeem or
otherwise retire the Notes and the Preferred Shares as would be required upon
such conversion by the 1940 Act. In determining whether to exercise its
discretion to submit this issue to shareholders, the Board of Directors would
consider all factors then relevant, including the relationship of the market
price of the Common Stock to net asset value, the extent to which the Fund's
capital structure is leveraged and the possibility of re-leveraging, the spread,
if any, between yields on "high-yield" securities in the Fund's portfolio as
compared to interest and dividend charges on senior securities and general
market and economic conditions. In addition to any vote required by Maryland
law, conversion of the Fund to an open-end investment company would require the
affirmative vote of the holders of a majority (as defined in the 1940 Act) of
each class of the shares entitled to be voted on the matter. Shareholders of an
open-end investment company may require the company to redeem their shares at
any time (except in certain circumstances as authorized by or under the 1940
Act) at their net asset value, less such redemption charges, if any, as might be
in effect at the time of redemption. If the Fund converted to an open-end
investment company, it could be required to liquidate portfolio securities to
meet requests for redemption, and the Common Stock would no longer be listed on
the Exchange. In the event the Fund converts to open-end status, the Fund would
only be able to borrow through bank borrowings within certain limits and would
not be allowed to have preferred stock.
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS; DIVIDEND REINVESTMENT PLAN
It is the Fund's present policy, which may be changed by the Board of
Directors, to pay dividends on a monthly basis to holders of Common Stock of
investment company taxable income (but not including short-term capital gains or
"net capital gains," defined as the excess of net long-term capital gains over
net short-term capital losses), and to distribute any net short-term capital
gains and net capital gains annually. Under present law, if the Fund were to
retain ordinary income or net capital gains, taxes would be imposed with respect
to those amounts. Subject to market conditions, the Fund seeks to provide
holders of its Common Stock with a relatively stable level of dividends.
However, there can be no assurance that the Fund will be able to maintain its
current level of dividends, and the Board of Directors of the Fund may, in its
sole discretion, change the Fund's current dividend policy or its current level
of dividends in response to market or other conditions. See "Risk Factors and
Special Considerations -- Dividends and Distributions." See also "Federal
Taxation," "Description of Notes -- Asset Maintenance" and "Description of
Capital Stock -- Dividends and Distributions" for a discussion of certain
possible restrictions on the Fund's ability to declare dividends on the Common
Stock.
Pursuant to the Fund's Dividend Reinvestment Plan (the "Plan"), all
shareholders whose shares are registered in their own names will have all
distributions reinvested automatically in additional shares of the Fund by State
Street Bank and Trust Company (the "Bank"), as agent under the Plan, unless a
shareholder elects to receive cash. An election to receive cash may be revoked
or reinstated at the option of the shareholder. Shareholders whose shares are
held in the name of a broker or nominee will have distributions reinvested
automatically by the broker or nominee in additional shares under the Plan,
unless the service is not provided by the broker or nominee, or unless the
shareholder elects to receive distributions in cash. If the service is not
available, such distributions will be paid in cash. Shareholders whose shares
are held in the name of a broker or nominee should contact the broker or nominee
for details. All distributions to investors who elect not to participate (or
whose broker or nominee elects not to participate) in the Plan, will be paid by
check mailed directly to the record holder by the Bank, as dividend paying
agent.
The Bank will furnish each person who buys shares in the offering with
written information relating to the Plan. Included in such information will be
procedures for electing to receive distributions in cash (or, in the case of
shares held in the name of a broker or nominee who does not participate in the
Plan, procedures for having such shares registered in the name of the
shareholder so that such shareholder may participate in the Plan).
If the Directors of the Fund declare a dividend or capital gains
distribution payable either in shares of Common Stock or in cash, as holders of
Common Stock may have elected, then nonparticipants in the Plan will receive
cash and participants in the Plan will receive the equivalent in shares of
Common Stock valued at the lower of market price or net asset value. Whenever
market price is equal to or exceeds net asset value at the time shares are
valued for the purpose of determining the number of shares equivalent to the
cash dividend or capital gains distribution, participants will be issued shares
of Common Stock at the net asset value most recently determined as provided
under "Determination of Net Asset Value," but in no event less than 95% of the
market price. If the net asset value of the Common Stock at such time exceeds
the market price of Common Stock at such time, or if the Fund should declare a
dividend or capital gains distribution payable only in cash, the Bank will, as
agent for the participants, buy Common Stock in the open market, on the Exchange
or elsewhere, for the participants' accounts. If, before the Bank has completed
its purchases, the market price exceeds the net asset value of the Common Stock,
the average per share purchase price paid by the Bank may exceed the net asset
value of the Common Stock, resulting in the acquisition of fewer shares than if
the dividend or capital gains distribution had been paid in Common Stock issued
by the Fund. The Bank will apply all cash received as a dividend or capital
gains distribution to purchase Common Stock on the open market as soon as
practicable after the payment date of such dividend or capital gains
distribution, but in no event later than 30 days after such date, except where
necessary to comply with applicable provisions of the federal securities laws.
The Bank maintains all shareholder accounts in the Plan and furnishes
written confirmations of all transactions in such accounts, including
information needed by shareholders for personal and tax records. Common Stock in
the account of each Plan participant will be held by the Bank in noncertificated
form in the name of the participant, and each shareholder's proxy will include
those shares purchased pursuant to the Plan.
There is no charge to participants for reinvesting dividends or capital
gains distributions. The Bank's fees for handling the reinvestment of dividends
and capital gains distributions will be paid by the Fund. There will be no
brokerage charges with respect to shares of Common Stock issued directly by the
Fund as a result of dividends or capital gains distributions payable either in
stock or in cash. However, each participant will pay a pro rata share of
brokerage commissions incurred with respect to the Bank's open market purchases
in connection with the reinvestment of dividends and capital gains
distributions.
The automatic reinvestment of dividends and capital gains distributions will
not relieve participants of any income tax which may be payable on such
dividends or distributions.
Experience under the Plan may indicate that changes are desirable.
Accordingly, the Fund reserves the right to amend or terminate the Plan as
applied to any dividend or capital gains distribution paid after written notice
of the change sent to the members of the Plan at least 90 days before the record
date for such dividend or capital gains distribution. The Plan also may be
amended or terminated by the Bank, with the Fund's prior written consent but,
except when necessary or appropriate to comply with applicable law or the rules
or policies of a regulatory body, only on at least 90 days' written notice to
participants in the Plan. All correspondence concerning the Plan should be
directed to the Bank at P.O. Box 8209, Boston, Massachusetts 02266.
FEDERAL TAXATION
The following discussion offers only a brief outline of the federal income
tax consequences of investing in the Common Stock and is based on the federal
tax laws in effect on the date hereof. Such tax laws are subject to change by
legislative, judicial or administrative action, possibly with retroactive
effect. Investors should consult their own tax advisors for more detailed
information and for information regarding the impact of state, local and foreign
taxes upon such an investment.
FEDERAL INCOME TAX TREATMENT OF THE FUND
The Fund has qualified and intends to continue to qualify and to elect to be
treated as a regulated investment company under the Internal Revenue Code. To
qualify as a regulated investment company, the Fund must, among other things,
(a) derive in each taxable year at least 90% of its gross income from dividends,
interest, payments with respect to securities loans and gains from the sale or
other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies, or other income
derived with respect to its business of investing in stocks, securities or
currencies (including but not limited to, gains from options, futures and
forward contracts); (b) derive in each taxable year beginning on or before
August 5, 1997, less than 30% of its gross income from any of the following that
are held for less than three months (i) stocks or securities, (ii) options,
future or forward contracts, or (iii) foreign currencies (or foreign currency
options, futures or forward contracts) that are not directly related to its
principal business of investing in stocks and securities (or options and futures
with respect to stocks or securities); and (c) diversify its holdings so that,
at the end of each quarter of each taxable year, (i) at least 50% of the market
value of the Fund's assets is represented by cash, cash items, U.S. Government
securities, securities of other regulated investment companies and other
securities, with such other securities of any one issuer limited for the
purposes of this calculation to an amount not greater than 5% of the value of
the Fund's total assets and 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such
issuer and (ii) not more than 25% of the value of its total assets is invested
in the securities of any one issuer (other than U.S. Government securities or
the securities of other regulated investment companies).
As a regulated investment company, in any fiscal year with respect to which
the Fund distributes at least 90% of its investment company taxable income
(which includes, among other items, dividends and interest but excludes net
long-term capital gains in excess of net short-term capital losses), the Fund
(but not its shareholders) generally will be relieved of U.S. federal income tax
on its net investment income and net capital gains (net long-term capital gains
in excess of the sum of net short-term capital losses and capital loss
carryovers from prior years, if any) that it distributes to shareholders. To the
extent the Fund retains its net capital gains for investment, it will be subject
under current tax rates to a federal income tax at a maximum effective rate of
35% on the amount retained. See "Federal Income Tax Treatment of Holders of
Common Stock" below. Amounts not distributed on a timely basis in accordance
with a calendar year distribution requirement are subject to a nondeductible 4%
excise tax payable by the Fund. To avoid this tax, the Fund must distribute, or
be deemed to have distributed, during each calendar year an amount equal to the
sum of (1) at least 98% of its ordinary income (not taking into account any
capital gains or losses) for the calendar year, (2) at least 98% of its capital
gains in excess of its capital losses (adjusted for certain ordinary losses) for
the twelve-month period ending on October 31 of the calendar year, and (3) all
ordinary income and capital gains for previous years that were not distributed
during such years. See "Risk Factors and Special Considerations -- Dividends and
Distributions."
If in any taxable year the Fund fails to qualify as a regulated investment
company under the Internal Revenue Code, the Fund will be taxed in the same
manner as an ordinary corporation, and distributions to its shareholders will
not be deductible by the Fund in computing its taxable income. In addition, in
the event of failure to qualify, the Fund's distributions, to the extent derived
from the Fund's current or accumulated earnings and profits, will constitute
dividends (eligible for the corporate dividends-received deduction, subject to
certain requirements) which are taxable to shareholders as ordinary income, even
though those distributions might otherwise (at least in part) have been treated
in the shareholders' hands as long-term capital gains.
If the Fund does not meet the asset coverage requirements of the 1940 Act,
the Fund will be required to suspend distributions to the holders of the Common
Stock and/or the Preferred Shares until the asset coverage is restored. See
"Description of Capital Stock -- Dividends and Distributions." Such a suspension
of distributions might prevent the Fund from distributing 90% of its investment
company taxable income, as is required in order to qualify for taxation as a
regulated investment company, or cause the Fund to incur a tax liability or a
non-deductible 4% excise tax on its undistributed taxable income (including
gain) or both.
Upon any failure to meet the asset coverage requirements of the 1940 Act,
the Fund intends to repurchase or redeem Notes and/or (to the extent permitted
under the 1940 Act) Preferred Shares in order to maintain or restore the
requisite asset coverage and avoid failure to remain qualified as a regulated
investment company. The determination to repurchase or redeem Notes or Preferred
Shares and the relative amounts of each to be repurchased or redeemed, if any,
will be made in the sole discretion of the Fund. Furthermore, the Fund will be
required to make mandatory partial redemptions of the Notes in the event failure
to maintain 1940 Act Asset Coverage (as defined under "Description of Notes --
Asset Maintenance") is not cured in a timely manner. See "Description of Notes
- -- Events of Default."
Use of the Fund's cash to repurchase or redeem Notes and/or Preferred Shares
may adversely affect the Fund's ability to distribute annually at least 90% of
its investment company taxable income, which distribution is required to qualify
for taxation as a regulated investment company. The Fund may also realize income
in connection with funding repurchases or redemptions of Notes or Preferred
Shares, and such income would be taken into account in determining whether or
not the above-described distribution requirements have been met. Depending on
the size of the Fund's assets relative to its outstanding senior securities,
redemption of the Notes and/or Preferred Shares might restore asset coverage.
Payment of distributions after restoration of asset coverage could requalify (or
avoid a disqualification of) the Fund as a regulated investment company,
depending upon the facts and circumstances.
The Fund's portfolio may include zero coupon bonds. Zero coupon bonds are
original issue discount bonds which pay no current interest. Original issue
discount is the excess (if any) of the stated redemption price at maturity of a
debt instrument over the issue price of the instrument. Original issue discount
on a taxable obligation is required to be currently included in the income of
the holder of the obligation generally on a constant interest rate basis
resembling the economic accrual of interest. The tax basis of the holder of an
original issue discount debt instrument is increased by the amount of original
issue discount thereon properly included in the holder's gross income as
determined for federal income tax purposes. Current inclusion in gross income of
original issue discount on a taxable debt instrument is required, even though no
cash is received at the time the original issue discount is required to be
included in gross income. Because such income may not be matched by a
corresponding cash distribution to the Fund, the Fund may be required to borrow
money or dispose of other securities to be able to make distributions to the
investors. The extent to which the Fund may liquidate securities at a gain may
be limited by the 30% limitation discussed above for taxable years of the Fund
beginning on or before August 5, 1997.
The Fund's transactions in foreign currencies, forward contracts, options
and futures contracts (including options and futures contracts on foreign
currencies) will be subject to special provisions of the Internal Revenue Code
that, among other things, may affect the character of gains and losses realized
by the Fund (i.e., may affect whether gains or losses are ordinary or capital),
accelerate recognition of income to the Fund, defer Fund losses, and affect the
determination of whether capital gains and losses are characterized as long-term
or short-term capital gains or losses. These rules could therefore affect the
character, amount and timing of distributions to shareholders. These provisions
also may require the Fund to mark-to-market certain types of the positions in
its portfolio (i.e., treat them as if they were disposed of at their fair market
value at the close of the taxable year) which may cause the Fund to recognize
income without receiving cash with which to make distributions in amounts
necessary to satisfy the 90% and 98% distribution requirements for avoiding
income and excise taxes. The Fund will monitor its transactions, will make the
appropriate tax elections, and will make the appropriate entries in its books
and records when it acquires any foreign currency, option, futures contract,
forward contract, or hedged investment in order to mitigate the effect of these
rules and prevent disqualification of the Fund as a regulated investment company
and minimize the imposition of income and excise taxes.
If the Fund fails to qualify as a regulated investment company for any year,
it generally must pay out its earnings and profits accumulated in that year less
an interest charge to the U.S. Treasury on 50% of such earnings and profits
before it can again qualify as a regulated investment company.
FEDERAL INCOME TAX TREATMENT OF HOLDERS OF COMMON STOCK
For any period during which the Fund qualifies as a regulated investment
company for federal income tax purposes, dividends paid out of the Fund's net
investment income and short-term capital gains to holders of Common Stock will
be taxable as ordinary income. It is expected that dividends received by
corporate shareholders will not be eligible for the dividends received
deduction. Distributions of net capital gains designated by the Fund as "capital
gain dividends", if any, are taxable as long-term capital gains, regardless of
how long the shareholder has held the Fund's shares. See the discussion below
for a summary of the capital gains rates applicable to capital gain dividends.
Capital gain dividends are not eligible for the corporate dividends received
deduction. Dividends and distributions will be taxable to shareholders as if
actually distributed, even if they are reinvested in additional shares of the
Fund. Shareholders receiving distributions in the form of newly issued shares
will have a cost basis in each share received equal to the fair market value of
a share of the Fund on the distribution date.
Generally, dividends paid by the Fund are treated as received in the taxable
year in which the distribution is made; however, any dividend declared by the
Fund in October, November or December of any calendar year, payable to
shareholders of record on a specified date in such a month and actually paid
during January of the following year, will be treated as received on December 31
of the year in which declared.
Any distribution by the Fund to a holder of Common Stock not made out of the
Fund's current and accumulated earnings and profits will be treated as a return
of capital to each holder of Common Stock, will reduce the basis of each share
of Common Stock with respect to which it is distributed and will be subject to
tax as capital gain to the extent that the distribution exceeds the basis of the
share of Common Stock with respect to which it is distributed. Investors should
carefully consider the tax implications of buying shares of Common Stock just
prior to a distribution, as the price of shares purchased at this time may
reflect the amount of the forthcoming distribution which will, except in unusual
circumstances, be taxable when received.
After the close of each taxable year, the Fund will identify for its holders
of Common Stock the portions of its distributions that are attributable to
capital gains and to ordinary income, respectively.
The Internal Revenue Code limits certain miscellaneous itemized deductions
by individuals, including deductions of investment expenses, to the extent the
aggregate of such deductions exceeds 2% of an individual's federal adjusted
gross income. The Internal Revenue Code would treat such expenses incurred by a
regulated investment company as being indirectly incurred by the shareholders of
the investment company. Shareholder expenses of publicly offered regulated
investment companies are exempted from the application of the 2% floor. Thus,
the limitation will not apply with respect to indirect deductions through the
Fund. Such expenses will also be fully deductible by the Fund's corporate
shareholders.
If the Fund suffers a net taxable loss in any taxable year, the holders of
Common Stock will not be permitted to utilize that loss in their tax returns.
Generally, gain recognized by a shareholder on the sale of shares held for
more than one year will be taxable as long-term capital gain. If a shareholder
holds shares primarily for sale to customers in the ordinary course of business
rather than for investment, any gain recognized on the sale of those shares
would be taxable as ordinary income. Any loss recognized on a sale or exchange
will be disallowed to the extent the shares disposed of are replaced within a
period of 61 days beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the shares
are disposed of. In such a case, the basis of the shares acquired will be
adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss. Any loss recognized by a shareholder on
a disposition of Fund shares held by the shareholder for six months or less will
be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any distributions of
capital gain dividends received or treated as having been received by the
shareholder with respect to such shares. Shareholders who acquire shares on
multiple dates should consult their tax advisors to determine how to allocate
the cost of stock for basis purposes.
Under the Taxpayer Relief Act of 1997, (the "1997 Tax Act"), the maximum tax
rates applicable to net capital gains recognized by individuals and other
non-corporate taxpayers are (i) the same as ordinary income rates for capital
assets held for one year or less, (ii) 28% for capital assets held for more than
one year but not more than 18 months and (iii) 20% for capital assets held for
more than 18 months. Shareholders should consult their own tax advisors
regarding the availability and effect of a certain tax election to
mark-to-market shares of Common Stock held on January 1, 2001. Capital gains or
losses recognized by corporate shareholders are subject to tax at the ordinary
income tax rates applicable to corporations. The new tax rates for capital gains
under the 1997 Tax Act described above apply to distributions of capital gain
dividends by regulated investment companies such as the Fund as well as to sales
and exchanges of shares in regulated investment companies such as the Fund. With
respect to capital losses recognized on dispositions of shares of Common Stock
held six months or less where such losses are treated as long-term capital
losses to the extent of prior capital gain dividends received on such shares, it
is unclear how such capital losses offset the capital gains referred to above.
Holders of Common Stock should consult their own tax advisors as to the
application of the new capital gains rates to their particular circumstances.
In general, federal withholding taxes at a 30% rate or a lower rate
established by treaty will apply to distributions to shareholders (except to
those distributions designated by the Fund as capital gain dividends) that are
nonresident aliens or foreign partnerships, trusts or corporations to the extent
that such income is not "effectively connected" with a U.S. trade or business
carried on by the shareholders.
In the event the Fund retains any net capital gains, it may designate such
retained amounts as undistributed capital gains in a notice to its shareholders.
In the event such a designation is made, shareholders subject to U.S. tax would
include in income, as long-term capital gains, their proportionate share of such
undistributed amounts, but would be allowed a credit or refund, as the case may
be, for their proportionate share of the 35% tax paid by the Fund. If the
designation is made, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the tax basis of
shares owned by a shareholder would be increased by an amount equal to the
difference between (i) the amount included in such shareholder's income as
long-term capital gains and (ii) such shareholder's proportionate share of the
35% tax paid by the Fund.
BACKUP WITHHOLDING
The Fund may be required to withhold for U.S. federal income taxes 31% of
all taxable distributions paid to shareholders who (i) fail to provide the Fund
with their correct taxpayer identification number, (ii) fail to make required
certifications or (iii) have been notified or with respect to whom the Fund has
been notified by the U.S. Internal Revenue Service that distributions to such
shareholder are subject to backup withholding. Corporate shareholders and
certain other shareholders specified in the Internal Revenue Code are exempt
from such backup withholding. Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any
amounts withheld may be credited against the shareholder's U.S. federal income
tax liability.
The U.S. Internal Revenue Service recently issued Treasury regulations,
generally effective for payments made after December 31, 1998, concerning the
withholding of tax and reporting for certain amounts paid to nonresident aliens
and foreign corporations. Among other things, these Treasury regulations may
require holders of Common Stock that are not United States persons within the
meaning of the Internal Revenue Code to furnish new certification of their
foreign status after December 31, 1998. Investors should consult their tax
advisors concerning the applicability and effect of such Treasury regulations on
an investment in Common Stock.
OTHER TAXATION
Investors are advised to consult their own tax advisors with respect to the
application to their own circumstances of the above-described general taxation
rules and with respect to the federal, state, local or foreign tax consequences
to them of an investment in the Common Stock.
DESCRIPTION OF CAPITAL STOCK
GENERAL
The authorized capital stock of the Fund consists of 1,000 Preferred Shares,
no par value, with a liquidation preference of $100,000 per share, and
100,000,000 shares of Common Stock, $.01 par value. As of October 31, 1997,
44,146,293 shares of Common Stock are outstanding and 200 Preferred Shares are
outstanding. The Board of Directors has the authority under the Articles of
Incorporation to, and reserves the right to, issue Preferred Shares and Common
Stock, from time to time, and any such shares shall be deemed "Preferred Shares"
and "Common Stock," respectively. The Preferred Shares and the Common Stock
issued are, or upon issuance will be fully paid and nonassessable and will have
no preemptive rights or conversion rights. As used herein, the term "holder of
Preferred Shares" refers to a beneficial owner of Preferred Shares unless the
context otherwise requires.
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
Dividends on the Preferred Shares are cumulative from the date on which such
shares are originally issued (the "Original Issuance Date") and are payable,
when, as and if declared by the Board of Directors of the Fund, out of funds
legally available therefor, on the last day of successive 30-day periods (each,
a "Dividend Payment Date") which commenced on January 19, 1989 (the 45th day
after the Original Issuance Date), subject to certain exceptions. Dividends will
be paid to the holders of the Preferred Shares on each Dividend Payment Date
through DTC or a successor securities depository appointed by the Fund. The
securities depository's normal procedures now provide for distribution of
dividends in next-day funds settled through the New York Clearing House to
broker-dealers acting as agent members on behalf of the holders of the Preferred
Shares, who in turn are expected to distribute such dividends to the persons for
whom they are acting as agent.
The Applicable Rate (as defined herein) is reset generally every 30 days by
an auction conducted on the first Business Day (an "Auction Date") next
preceding the first day of the next dividend period; provided, however, if such
day is a Thursday the Auction Date shall mean the Business Day next preceding
such Thursday. Accordingly, for each dividend period after the initial dividend
period, the dividend rate for the Preferred Shares will be the Applicable Rate
per annum that results from an auction. Pursuant to a broker-dealer agreement
(the "Broker-Dealer Agreement") among the Fund, Bear, Stearns & Co. Inc. ("Bear,
Stearns") and Bankers Trust Company ("Bankers Trust"), Bankers Trust as the
auction agent for the Preferred Shares will pay a quarterly service charge (from
funds provided by the Fund) to Bear, Stearns, the Fund's exclusive broker-dealer
with respect to the Preferred Shares, of 1/8 of 1% of the purchase price of
Preferred Shares outstanding, prorated for the number of days in the related
dividend period. To the extent that the Fund does not make dividend payments on
the Preferred Shares on any Dividend Payment Date, such payments shall be made
to the holders by Financial Security pursuant to the Surety Bond and thereafter
Financial Security shall be subrogated to such holders' rights to receive such
dividend payments when, as and if declared by the Board of Directors. See
"Voting" below and "Surety Arrangement for Preferred Shares -- Surety Bond." The
Fund has negotiated an extension of the Broker-Dealer Agreement whereby Bear,
Stearns has agreed to continue to act as the Fund's exclusive broker-dealer with
respect to the Preferred Shares through December 4, 1998.
Under the 1940 Act and the Articles of Incorporation, the Fund may not (i)
declare dividends on the Preferred Shares if at the time thereof (and after
giving effect thereto) asset coverage with respect to the Fund's senior
securities representing indebtedness, including the Notes, would be less than
200% (or such higher percentage as may in the future be required by law) or (ii)
declare any other distributions with respect to the Preferred Shares or purchase
or redeem Preferred Shares if at the time of such declaration, purchase or
redemption, as applicable (and after giving effect thereto), asset coverage with
respect to the Fund's senior securities representing indebtedness, including the
Notes, would be less than 300% (or such higher percentage as may in the future
be required by law). Further, the Fund may not declare dividends or other
distributions on the Common Stock or purchase or redeem any shares of Common
Stock if, at the time of the declaration, purchase or redemption, as applicable
(and after giving effect thereto), asset coverage with respect to the Fund's
senior securities representing indebtedness, including the Notes, would be less
than 300% (or such higher percentage as may in the future be required by law) or
asset coverage with respect to the Fund's senior securities of a class which is
stock, including the Preferred Shares, would be less than 200% (or such higher
percentage as may in the future be required by law). See "Description of Notes
- -- Restrictive Covenants" for certain definitions relating to the foregoing
restrictions. Under the Note Purchase Agreement (as defined herein), the
declaration of dividends or other distributions on or the purchase or the
redemption of Preferred Shares or Common Stock will be prohibited at any time
payments of principal of or interest on the Notes are in default. In addition,
the declaration of dividends or other distributions on or the purchase or
redemption of Common Stock will be prohibited at any time dividends on the
Preferred Shares are in arrears or Surety Assets Coverage is not maintained.
Subject to the foregoing, and any requirements of Maryland law, to the
extent that the Fund's net investment income for any year exceeds any current or
accumulated dividends on the Preferred Shares, it will be distributed to the
holders of the Common Stock. The term "net investment income" includes interest,
dividends, short-term capital gains and other income received or accrued less
interest payments with respect to the Notes, the advisory fee, bank custodian
and surety custodian charges, the premium paid pursuant to the Surety
Arrangement, taxes (except capital gains taxes) and other expenses properly
chargeable against income, but does not include net capital gains, stock
dividends, transfer taxes, brokerage or other capital charges or distributions
designated as a return of capital. Any net capital gains (defined as the excess
of net long-term capital gains over net short-term capital losses) of the Fund
will be distributed annually to the holders of the Common Stock (subject to the
prior rights of the holders of the Preferred Shares) subject to the foregoing
and any requirements of Maryland law.
REDEMPTION
To the extent permitted under the 1940 Act and Maryland law, the Fund may
redeem at its option some or all of the Preferred Shares on any Dividend Payment
Date (a "Preferred Shares Redemption"). The Fund shall be obligated (a) to
redeem, no later than the last day specified for the redemption of Preferred
Shares pursuant to a Redemption Request (as defined herein) from Financial
Security the number of Preferred Shares specified in such Redemption Request (a
"Mandatory Surety Redemption") and (b) to redeem all of the Preferred Shares at
least one full Business Day prior to any expiration date of the Surety Bond if,
190 days prior to such expiration date, the Fund shall have failed to obtain
from Financial Security an extension of the term of the Surety Bond pursuant to
its terms (a "Mandatory Expiration Redemption"); provided that, under certain
circumstances, no Mandatory Expiration Redemption shall be required if the Fund
shall have obtained notice in writing from each of the Rating Agencies that such
expiration of the Surety Bond will not adversely affect the then outstanding
ratings of the Preferred Shares whether through obtaining a substitute surety
bond or otherwise. Preferred Shares Redemptions and any Mandatory Surety
Redemption or Mandatory Expiration Redemption will be made at a price equal to
$100,000 per share plus accumulated and unpaid dividends through the date of
redemption (whether or not declared by the Fund), except that if any such
redemption is not made on a Dividend Payment Date, it will be made at a price
equal to $100,250 plus accumulated and unpaid dividends through the date of
redemption (whether or not declared by the Fund). Such redemptions may only be
made by the Fund to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act and Maryland law,
and provided neither principal nor interest payments with respect to the Notes
are then in default. A holder of Preferred Shares may elect not to have its
shares redeemed pursuant to a Mandatory Expiration Redemption by giving notice
to the Fund or the paying agent for the Preferred Shares at least five days
prior to the redemption date of its election to continue to hold its Preferred
Shares. The Fund is obligated to meet certain Deposit Securities (as defined
herein) requirements pursuant to the Surety Arrangement to the extent necessary
to satisfy a Mandatory Expiration Redemption. See "Surety Arrangement for
Preferred Shares -- Insurance Agreement."
Pursuant to the terms of the Insurance Agreement (as defined below),
Financial Security is entitled to cause the Fund to redeem certain of the
Preferred Shares to the extent permitted under the 1940 Act and Maryland law
(and provided payments of principal of and interest on the Notes are not then in
default), in the event that the Fund fails to maintain Surety Assets Coverage
while any of the Preferred Shares are outstanding, and such failure is not cured
within eight Business Days. See "Surety Arrangement for Preferred Shares --
Insurance Agreement." If on any date on which the payment of the redemption
price would constitute a Scheduled Payment, the Fund shall default in making
payment of such redemption price, Financial Security shall make such payments to
the holders of Preferred Shares to be redeemed and shall thereafter be
subrogated to all the rights of such holders with respect to their Preferred
Shares. See "Voting" below and "Surety Arrangement for Preferred Shares --
Surety Bond."
LIQUIDATION RIGHTS
Upon a liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Fund (whether voluntary
or involuntary), holders of the Preferred Shares then outstanding shall be
entitled to receive, out of the assets of the Fund available for distribution to
stockholders, after satisfying claims of creditors (including the holders of the
Notes) but before any distribution of assets is made to holders of the Common
Stock or any other class of stock ranking junior to the Preferred Shares as to
liquidation payments, a liquidation distribution in the amount of $100,000 per
share plus an amount equal to accumulated and unpaid dividends (whether or not
earned or declared by the Fund, but without interest) to the date of the final
distribution. If, upon any liquidation, dissolution or winding up of the Fund,
the assets of the Fund shall be insufficient to make such full payments to
holders of the Preferred Shares, then such assets shall be distributed among the
holders of Preferred Shares ratably, according to the respective amounts which
would be payable on all such Preferred Shares if all amounts thereon were paid
in full. So long as the Surety Bond is in effect, to the extent of any such
insufficiency and provided Financial Security has consented to such liquidation,
Financial Security will pay the remaining liquidation preference to the holders
of the Preferred Shares at the time of liquidation. If Financial Security has
not consented to such liquidation, it shall continue to guarantee Scheduled
Payments on the Preferred Shares (including dividend payments and the
liquidation preference to the extent thereof not paid in liquidation) until the
expiration of the Surety Bond, at which time payment of the unpaid liquidation
preference of the Preferred Shares shall be paid by Financial Security. See
"Surety Arrangement for Preferred Shares -- Surety Bond." Unless and until
payment in full has been made to the holders of the Preferred Shares of the
liquidation distributions to which they are entitled, no dividends or
distributions will be made to holders of the Common Stock or any other stock
junior to the Preferred Shares on liquidation. After payment to the holders of
the Preferred Shares of the full amount of the liquidation distributions to
which they are entitled, such holders will not be entitled to any further
participation in any distribution of assets of the Fund. Neither a sale, lease
or exchange of all or substantially all of the property and assets of the Fund
nor a consolidation or merger of the Fund with or into any other corporation or
business trust will be deemed to be a liquidation, dissolution or winding up of
the Fund.
Upon any liquidation, the holders of the Common Stock, after required
payments to the holders of the Preferred Shares, will be entitled to participate
equally in the remaining assets of the Fund.
VOTING
Except as noted below, the Common Stock and the Preferred Shares vote
together as a single class. Holders of shares of Common Stock have voting rights
of one vote per share and holders of the Preferred Shares have voting rights of
one vote per $1,000 of liquidation preference without regard to any liquidation
preference attributable to accumulated and unpaid dividends (i.e., 100 votes per
Preferred Share); provided that all the votes represented by a single Preferred
Share must be voted together. In elections of Directors, the holders of the
Preferred Shares, as a separate class, vote to elect two Directors and the
holders of the Common Stock and the Preferred Shares, voting together, will
elect the remaining Directors. In addition, during any period (herein referred
to as a "Voting Period") that dividends payable on Preferred Shares equal to two
full years of dividends are unpaid, the holders of such Preferred Shares, voting
as a separate class, have the right to elect as a class the smallest number of
additional Directors as shall be necessary to assure that a majority of the
Directors has been elected by the holders of the Preferred Shares. The terms of
office of all persons who are Directors of the Fund at the time of the
commencement of a Voting Period will continue without change, notwithstanding
the election by the holders of Preferred Shares of the additional number of
Directors which such holders are entitled to elect as a separate class. The
additional Directors elected by the holders of Preferred Shares in connection
with a Voting Period, together with the incumbent Directors elected prior to the
Voting Period, will constitute the duly elected Directors of the Fund. When all
accumulated and unpaid dividends have been paid or provided for, the Voting
Period shall end and the terms of office of the additional Directors elected by
the holders of the Preferred Shares in connection with a Voting Period shall
terminate. Election of Directors is noncumulative; accordingly, holders of a
majority of the voting power represented by the outstanding shares of Common
Stock and Preferred Shares, voting together as a single class, or a majority of
the outstanding Preferred Shares, voting separately as a class, may elect all of
the Directors who are subject to election by such class, as the case may be.
Pursuant to the Surety Custody Agreement, to the extent Scheduled Payments
are paid by Financial Security pursuant to the Surety Bond, Financial Security
shall have the right to exercise the voting rights (including any right to elect
a majority of the Board of Directors described above) of the holders of the
Preferred Shares with respect to which such Scheduled Payments have been made by
Financial Security. See "Surety Arrangement for Preferred Shares -- Insurance
Agreement." The assignment to Financial Security of the voting rights of the
holders of the Preferred Shares shall terminate when the Fund has made payments
on the Preferred Shares with respect to which Financial Security had made
Scheduled Payments pursuant to the Surety Bond or the Fund has reimbursed
Financial Security with respect to such Scheduled Payments.
The Common Stock and the Preferred Shares each vote separately as a class on
amendments to the Articles of Incorporation that would adversely affect their
respective contractual rights as expressly set forth in the Articles of
Incorporation. In addition to any other vote required by the Articles of
Incorporation or applicable law, so long as any Preferred Shares are outstanding
(1) the Fund may not be voluntarily liquidated, dissolved or wound up, or merged
into or consolidated with any other entity in a transaction in which it is not
the successor entity, or converted to open-end status, and may not sell all or
substantially all of its assets and may not engage in a statutory share exchange
in which it is not the successor entity without the approval of at least a
majority of the outstanding Preferred Shares and the outstanding shares of
Common Stock, each voting as a separate class; (2) the adoption of any plan of
reorganization adversely affecting either the Preferred Shares or the Common
Stock shall require the approval of a majority of the outstanding shares of each
such class so affected; (3) the approval of a majority of the outstanding
Preferred Shares, voting separately as a class, shall be required to amend,
alter or repeal any of the express preferences, rights or powers of holders of
the Preferred Shares as set forth in the Articles of Incorporation, or increase
or decrease the number of Preferred Shares authorized to be issued; and (4) the
approval of a majority (as defined under "Investment Objective and Policies") of
the outstanding Preferred Shares and the outstanding shares of Common Stock,
each voting as a separate class, shall be required to approve any action
requiring a vote of security holders under Section 13(a) of the 1940 Act
including, among other things, changes in the Fund's sub-classification as a
closed-end investment company, changes in its investment objective or changes in
the investment restrictions described under "Investment Policies and Limitations
- -- Investment Restrictions." The Common Stock and the Preferred Shares will also
vote separately to the extent otherwise required under Maryland law or the 1940
Act as in effect from time to time, and, to the extent required under the 1940
Act, action by the Fund's shareholders shall require a vote of a majority of the
Fund's outstanding voting securities as defined under "Investment Policies and
Limitations."
For purposes of any right of the holders of the Preferred Shares to vote on
any matter, whether such right is created by the Articles of Incorporation, by
statute or otherwise, a holder of a Preferred Share will not be entitled to vote
and such Preferred Share will not be deemed to be outstanding for the purpose of
voting or determining the number of Preferred Shares required to constitute a
quorum, if prior to or concurrently with a determination of Preferred Shares
entitled to vote or of Preferred Shares deemed outstanding for quorum purposes,
as the case may be, a notice of redemption shall have been given in respect of
such Preferred Share and Deposit Securities for the redemption of such Preferred
Share shall have been deposited in trust, as provided above; provided, however,
that the foregoing sentence shall not be applicable to the holders of Preferred
Shares who elected to retain their Preferred Shares after notice of a Mandatory
Expiration Redemption. The Fund is required by the rules of the Exchange to hold
annual meetings of shareholders. The most recent annual meeting of shareholders
was held on March 7, 1997. The next annual meeting of shareholders is scheduled
for March 9, 1998.
SURETY ARRANGEMENT FOR PREFERRED SHARES
FINANCIAL SECURITY
The information set forth below under this caption of this Prospectus was
furnished by Financial Security.
General. Financial Security acts as surety under the Surety Bond by which
Financial Security unconditionally and irrevocably guarantees Scheduled Payments
on the Preferred Shares. Financial Security is a monoline insurance company
incorporated in 1984 under the laws of the State of New York. Financial Security
is licensed to engage in financial guaranty insurance business in all 50 states,
the District of Columbia and Puerto Rico and the United Kingdom.
Financial Security and its subsidiaries are engaged in the business of
writing financial guaranty insurance, principally in respect of securities
offered in domestic and foreign markets. In general, financial guaranty
insurance consists of the issuance of a guaranty of scheduled payments of an
issuer's securities -- thereby enhancing the credit rating of those securities
- -- in consideration for the payment of a premium to the insurer. Financial
Security and its subsidiaries principally insure asset-backed, collateralized
and municipal securities. Asset-backed securities are generally supported by
residential mortgage loans, consumer or trade receivables, securities or other
assets having an ascertainable cash flow or market value. Collateralized
securities include public utility first mortgage bonds and sale/leaseback
obligation bonds. Municipal securities consist largely of general obligation
bonds, special revenue bonds and other special obligations of state and local
governments. Financial Security insures both newly issued securities sold in the
primary market and outstanding securities sold in the secondary market that
satisfy Financial Security's underwriting criteria.
Financial Security is a wholly owned subsidiary of Financial Security
Assurance Holdings Ltd. ("Holdings"), a New York Stock Exchange listed company.
Major shareholders of Holdings include Fund American Enterprises Holdings, Inc.,
U S WEST and The Tokio Marine and Fire Insurance Co., Ltd. No shareholder of
Holdings is obligated to pay any debt of Financial Security or any claim under
any insurance policy issued by Financial Security or to make any additional
contribution to the capital of Financial Security.
The principal executive offices of Financial Security are located at 350
Park Avenue, New York, New York 10022, and its telephone number at that location
is (212) 826-0100.
Reinsurance. Pursuant to an intercompany agreement, liabilities on financial
guaranty insurance written or reinsured from third parties by Financial Security
or any of its domestic operating insurance company subsidiaries are reinsured
among such companies on an agreed-upon percentage substantially proportional to
their respective capital, surplus and reserves, subject to applicable statutory
risk limitations. In addition, Financial Security reinsures a portion of its
liabilities under certain of its financial guaranty insurance policies with
other reinsurers under various quota share treaties and on a
transaction-by-transaction basis. Such reinsurance is utilized by Financial
Security as a risk management device and to comply with certain statutory and
rating agency requirements; it does not alter or limit Financial Security's
obligations under any financial guaranty insurance policy.
Ratings of Claims-Paying Ability. Financial Security's claims-paying ability
is rated "Aaa" by Moody's and "AAA" by S&P, Nippon Investors Service Inc. and
Standard & Poor's (Australia) Pty. Ltd. Such ratings reflect only the views of
the respective rating agencies, are not recommendations to buy, sell or hold
securities and are subject to revision or withdrawal at any time by such rating
agencies. Copies of the statutory quarterly and annual statements filed with the
State of New York Insurance Department by Financial Security are available upon
request to the State of New York Insurance Department.
Insurance Regulation. Financial Security is licensed and subject to
regulation as a financial guaranty insurance corporation under the laws of the
State of New York, its state of domicile. In addition, Financial Security and
its insurance subsidiaries are subject to regulation by insurance laws of the
various other jurisdictions in which they are licensed to do business. As a
financial guaranty insurance corporation licensed to do business in the State of
New York, Financial Security is subject to Article 69 of the New York Insurance
Law which, among other things, limits the business of each such insurer to
financial guaranty insurance and related lines, requires that each such insurer
maintain a minimum surplus to policyholders, establishes contingency, loss and
unearned premium reserve requirements for each such insurer, and limits the size
of individual transactions ("single risks") and the volume of transactions
("aggregate risks") that may be underwritten by each such insurer. Other
provisions of the New York Insurance Law, applicable to non-life insurance
companies such as Financial Security, regulate, among other things, permitted
investments, payment of dividends, transactions with affiliates, mergers,
consolidations, acquisitions or sales of assets and incurrence of liability for
borrowings.
SURETY BOND
Concurrent with the issuance of the Preferred Shares in November 1988, the
Fund caused Financial Security to deliver the Surety Bond (the "Surety Bond") to
Bankers Trust Company, as custodian under a custody agreement (the "Surety
Custody Agreement"), for the benefit of the holders of the Preferred Shares.
Under the Surety Bond, Financial Security unconditionally and irrevocably
guarantees to each holder of Preferred Shares, the full and complete payment of:
(i) Scheduled Payments; and (ii) the amount of any payment on the Preferred
Shares which subsequently is avoided in whole or in part as a preference under
applicable law until and including such date on which the Preferred Shares are
paid in full.
"Scheduled Payments" shall mean (i) payments of dividends on the Preferred
Shares which holders of the Preferred Shares would be entitled to receive on
each Dividend Payment Date during the term of the Surety Bond (see "Expiration
of the Surety Arrangement" below) in accordance with the terms of the Articles
of Incorporation, without regard to whether the Fund has declared any such
dividend or such dividend could have been legally declared by the Fund, (ii)
payment of the redemption price of the Preferred Shares, without regard to
whether such redemption could have been legally made by the Fund (a) on the last
date on which the Fund was to have redeemed the Preferred Shares as specified in
a Redemption Request (as defined herein) given by Financial Security under the
Insurance Agreement (as defined below) upon the occurrence of an Event of
Default (as defined herein) under the Insurance Agreement in the event Financial
Security has notified the Surety Custodian that such redemption is to be a
Scheduled Payment and (b) on the date on which the Preferred Shares may be
required to be redeemed upon expiration of the Surety Bond (as described under
"Description of Capital Stock -- Redemption"), and (iii) payment of the
liquidation preference on the Preferred Shares in the event of a liquidation of
the Fund during the term of the Surety Bond on the date fixed for payment of
such liquidation preference pursuant to the Articles of Incorporation, so long
as Financial Security shall have consented to such liquidation. For the purposes
of the Scheduled Payments under the Surety Bond, in the event of a liquidation
of the Fund to which Financial Security has not consented in which only a
portion of the liquidation preference on the Preferred Shares is paid, a portion
of the Preferred Shares represented by the unpaid portion of the liquidation
preference shall be deemed to remain outstanding and shall be secured by the
Surety Bond as to all Scheduled Payments without regard to whether the Fund has
any obligation with respect thereto.
Financial Security shall be subrogated to all the rights of each holder of
Preferred Shares in the event Financial Security makes a Scheduled Payment to
any such holder under the Surety Bond.
The Surety Bond is a direct, unsecured and unsubordinated obligation of
Financial Security ranking equally with any other unsecured and unsubordinated
obligations of Financial Security except for certain obligations in respect of
tax and other payments to which preference is or may become afforded by statute.
The term of the Surety Bond cannot be modified or altered by any other agreement
or instrument or by the merger, consolidation or dissolution of the Fund. The
Surety Bond may not be cancelled or revoked by Financial Security prior to the
end of its term. See "Expiration of the Surety Arrangement" below. The Surety
Bond is governed by the laws of the State of New York but is not covered by the
Property/Casualty Insurance Security Fund specified in Article 76 of the New
York Insurance Law.
INSURANCE AGREEMENT
General. As a precondition to Financial Security's issuing the Surety Bond,
the Fund entered into an Insurance Agreement (the "Insurance Agreement") with
Financial Security pursuant to which the Fund is obligated to reimburse
Financial Security for amounts paid by Financial Security under the Surety Bond.
A copy of the Insurance Agreement, as amended, is filed as an exhibit to the
Registration Statement, as filed with the SEC on March 29, 1996. A copy of such
Registration Statement may be obtained as described under "Further Information."
Surety Asset Coverage. At any time that Preferred Shares are outstanding,
the Fund is required under the Insurance Agreement to maintain assets in its
portfolio meeting the Surety Investment Guidelines and having a discounted value
at least equal to the Surety Asset Coverage (as defined below). If the Fund
fails to meet the Surety Asset Coverage requirement and such failure is not
cured within eight Business Days, Financial Security may seek to cause the Fund
to redeem certain of the Preferred Shares. See "Events of Default; Remedies"
below. The discount factor for and market value of any asset of the Fund, the
method of calculating Surety Asset Coverage, the assets eligible for inclusion
in the calculation of the discounted value of the Fund's portfolio and certain
definitions and methods of calculation relating thereto may be changed from time
to time by the Fund and Financial Security.
"Surety Asset Coverage" as of any date is defined as the dollar amount equal
to (A) the sum of (i) 100% of the aggregate principal amount of the Notes then
outstanding; (ii) $100,250 times the number of Preferred Shares then
outstanding; (iii) the aggregate amount of accrued interest on the Notes then
outstanding, plus an amount equal to 63 days' interest on such principal amount
of the Notes; (iv) the aggregate amount of accumulated but unpaid dividends with
respect to the Preferred Shares to such date, plus the amount of dividends
projected to accumulate on the Preferred Shares then outstanding from such date
until the 63rd day thereafter; (v) the aggregate principal amount of any then
outstanding indebtedness of the Fund for money borrowed (other than the Notes);
and (vi) the greater of $200,000 or the Fund's liabilities in existence as of
such date to the extent not otherwise reflected in any of (i) through (v) above,
less (B) the combined value of any Deposit Securities irrevocably deposited by
the Fund for payment of principal or interest on the Notes or redemptions of or
dividend payments with respect to the Preferred Shares. See "Deposit Securities
Requirement" below.
Deposit Securities Requirement. The Fund is obligated to deposit with the
payment agent with respect to the Preferred Shares, a specified amount of
securities ("Deposit Securities") not later than 20 days prior to each Dividend
Payment Date and not later than the mailing of any notice of redemption with
respect to any redemption (except in the case of a Mandatory Expiration
Redemption). In addition, in the case of a Mandatory Expiration Redemption, the
Fund will be obligated to set aside Deposit Securities ratably over a period
ending not less than 30 days prior to the applicable redemption date. Deposit
Securities in all cases shall have an initial combined value greater than or
equal to liquidation preference and/or accumulated dividends on the Preferred
Shares to become due and payable on the applicable payment date, and shall
mature on or prior to such date.
Events of Default; Remedies. An "Event of Default" is defined in the
Insurance Agreement to include any of the following: (i) any default by the Fund
in its performance of any covenant contained in the Insurance Agreement and the
continuance of such default for at least 30 days after written notice is given
to the Fund; (ii) any material representation or warranty made by the Fund in
the Insurance Agreement or in connection therewith shall prove to be incorrect
in any material respect when made or deemed made; (iii) any failure of the Fund
to maintain assets in its portfolio with a discounted value such that the Surety
Asset Coverage requirement is met, which failure is not cured within eight
Business Days; (iv) any failure by the Fund to reimburse Financial Security for
amounts paid under the Surety Bond or pay to Financial Security when due any
other amount under the Insurance Agreement; (v) any failure by the Fund, on or
prior to the date six months prior to the expiration date of the Surety Bond to
obtain from Financial Security an extension of the term of the Surety Bond
pursuant to its terms or to obtain notice in writing from each of the Rating
Agencies that such expiration of the Surety Bond will not adversely affect the
then outstanding rating, if any, of the Preferred Shares by such Rating Agency
whether through obtaining a substitute surety bond or otherwise; (vi) a final
determination by the Internal Revenue Service that the Fund does not qualify for
any taxable year as a regulated investment company (as defined in the Internal
Revenue Code); (vii) certain events of bankruptcy, insolvency or receivership of
the Fund; (viii) denial by the Fund that it has any or further liability or
obligation under the Insurance Agreement or the Articles of Incorporation, or
any finding or ruling by any governmental agency or authority that the Insurance
Agreement or the Articles of Incorporation is not valid or binding on the Fund;
(ix) the failure to comply with certain covenants with respect to the
liquidation of portfolio securities in order to pay dividends or make
redemptions on Preferred Shares when due; and (x) the failure by the Fund to
make a payment of a dividend or redemption when due on the Preferred Shares or
to declare a dividend on the Preferred Shares when contemplated under the terms
of the Fund's Articles of Incorporation and not prohibited under Maryland law or
the 1940 Act; provided that, in the case of each of clauses (i), (ii), (vi) and
(viii), such event shall not constitute an Event of Default unless, in the
reasonable judgment of Financial Security, such event would materially and
adversely affect the ability of the Fund to perform its material obligations
under the Insurance Agreement or the Articles of Incorporation or would
materially and adversely affect the material rights or benefits or the
enforcement of remedies or the practicable realization of such rights of or
benefits to Financial Security under the Insurance Agreement or of Financial
Security or any holder of Preferred Shares under the Surety Custody Agreement or
the Articles of Incorporation or otherwise with respect to the Preferred Shares.
If an Event of Default has occurred and is continuing, the Fund is required
under the Insurance Agreement, upon receipt of a written request from Financial
Security (a "Redemption Request"): (a) in the case of an Event of Default other
than as specified in clause (iii) above, to deliver a notice of redemption
("Notice of Redemption") with respect to, and redeem within a specified period,
such number of Preferred Shares, as specified by Financial Security in such
Redemption Request; and (b) in the case of the occurrence and continuance of an
Event of Default specified in clause (iii) above relating to Surety Asset
Coverage, to identify in the Fund's sole discretion, and sell for cash, certain
portfolio holdings, the proceeds from the sale of which shall be added to the
portfolio and shall thereby cause the value of the portfolio to have equalled or
exceeded the Surety Asset Coverage requirement on a pro forma basis as of the
immediately preceding date such Surety Asset Coverage was determined ("Special
Surety Redemption Assets"). In addition, Financial Security will be entitled to
deliver a Redemption Request directing the Fund to redeem Preferred Shares with
the proceeds of the sale of such Special Surety Redemption Assets or similar
assets. Any Redemption Request (other than in respect of an Event of Default
specified in clause (iii) above), once delivered, may be withdrawn by Financial
Security at any time prior to the mailing of the related Notice of Redemption.
Any amount applied to payment on the Preferred Shares as to which Financial
Security has made payment under the Surety Bond shall be deemed to satisfy the
obligation of the Fund to reimburse Financial Security in an amount equal to the
amount so applied. Alternatively, if the Fund reimburses Financial Security for
any Scheduled Payments made by it, such reimbursement will satisfy the Fund's
obligation to make the dividend, redemption or liquidation preference payment
represented by such Scheduled Payment so reimbursed.
INDEMNIFICATION AND OTHER PAYMENTS BY THE FUND
The Fund has agreed to indemnify Financial Security against certain
liabilities, losses, costs, damages, attorneys' fees and other expenses. The
Fund paid to Financial Security, upon the issuance of the Surety Bond, and in
consideration thereof, a premium equal to $510,909 which represented the present
value of 0.40% of the aggregate liquidation preference of the Preferred Shares
originally issued (the "Annual Premium Amount") times the number of years (five)
in the initial term of the Surety Bond (which was from December 1988 through
December 1993) and also paid Financial Security for certain other legal fees and
expenses incurred by Financial Security in connection with the Insurance
Agreement. The Fund now pays an annual fee to Financial Security equal to 0.40%
of the aggregate liquidation preference of the outstanding Preferred Shares.
EXPIRATION OF THE SURETY ARRANGEMENT
The Surety Bond will expire December 5, 1998; provided, however, that,
subject to certain conditions contained in the Insurance Agreement including the
conditions that there is no Event of Default and Surety Asset Coverage is met at
the time of extension, the Fund may elect to extend the expiration date for one
or more additional periods of up to five years in the aggregate at a premium
payable annually equal to 0.40% of the aggregate liquidation preference of the
Preferred Shares outstanding at the time of extension of the Surety Bond. Except
under certain circumstances, upon an expiration of the Surety Bond prior to 10
years after the original issuance thereof, the Fund shall be obligated to pay
Financial Security a fee equal to the Annual Premium Amount. Accordingly, the
Fund may not replace the Surety Bond with a substitute surety bond, financial
guaranty or other credit enhancement without payment of such fee. Upon
expiration of the Surety Bond, the Preferred Shares will be subject to mandatory
redemption under certain circumstances as described under "Description of
Capital Stock -- Redemption."
DESCRIPTION OF NOTES
GENERAL
The Fund issued $20,000,000 (principal amount) of the Notes, due in December
1998, pursuant to a note purchase agreement (the "Note Purchase Agreement")
dated as of July 15, 1993, and amended and restated as of December 16, 1993,
between the Fund and Pacific Mutual Life Insurance Company ("Pacific Mutual").
The Note Purchase Agreement does not limit the aggregate principal amount of
senior notes of the Fund (including the Notes, the "Senior Notes") that may be
issued thereunder from time to time in one or more series. The issuance of any
subsequent Senior Notes will be subject to compliance with the 1940 Act,
including Section 18 thereof. Subject to the 1940 Act, any such subsequent
Senior Notes may have certain terms, including, but not limited to, those
relating to interest rate, redemptions, repurchases and maturity which differ
from the terms of the Notes. The following summary of the principal terms of the
Notes and certain terms of the Note Purchase Agreement is qualified in its
entirety by reference to all provisions of the Note Purchase Agreement,
including the definitions therein of certain terms. A copy of the Note Purchase
Agreement is filed as an exhibit to the Fund's Registration Statement on Form
N-2, as filed with the SEC on March 29, 1996.
INTEREST
The Notes bear interest at the rate of 6.53% per annum from July 15, 1993
through and including November 30, 1998. Interest on the Notes is payable on
June 1 and December 1 of each year, commencing December 1, 1993. The Notes will
mature on December 1, 1998 if not repurchased or redeemed prior to that date.
REDEMPTION
The Notes will not be redeemable by the Fund prior to maturity, except that
(i) the Fund may redeem the Notes on or after December 5, 1993, in whole but not
in part, in connection with the conversion of the Fund to open-end status and
(ii) the Fund may elect to redeem such amount of Notes as shall (a) enable the
Fund to maintain asset coverage (as defined in and determined pursuant to the
1940 Act) with respect to the Fund's senior securities representing indebtedness
(as defined in the 1940 Act), including the Notes, of at least 300% (or such
higher percentage as may in the future be specified in the 1940 Act as the
minimum asset coverage for senior securities representing indebtedness of a
closed-end investment company as a condition of paying dividends on common
stock), (b) enable the Fund to maintain asset coverage (as defined in the 1940
Act) with respect to the Fund's senior securities of a class which is stock (as
defined in the 1940 Act), including the Preferred Shares, of at least 200% or
such higher percentage as may in the future be specified in the 1940 Act as the
minimum asset coverage for senior securities representing indebtedness of a
closed-end investment company as a condition of paying dividends on common stock
or (c) enable the Fund to qualify for treatment as a regulated investment
company for federal income tax purposes. The Notes shall also be subject to
mandatory partial redemption upon the occurrence of certain events of default as
described under clauses (v) and (vi) under "Events of Default" below. All
redemptions of Notes by the Fund will be at a price of 100% of the principal
amount thereof, plus accrued interest to the date of redemption.
RANKING OF NOTES
The Notes will rank pari passu with all other existing and future senior
indebtedness of the Fund and will be senior to the Common Stock and the
Preferred Shares. "Senior indebtedness" means the principal of and interest on
and other amounts due on or in connection with any existing or future unsecured
indebtedness of the Fund.
RESTRICTIVE COVENANTS
Under the 1940 Act and the Note Purchase Agreement, the Fund may not declare
dividends or other distributions on the Common Stock or purchase any shares of
Common Stock if, at the time of the declaration or purchase, as applicable (and
after giving effect thereto), asset coverage with respect to the Fund's senior
securities representing indebtedness, including the Notes, would be less than
300% (or such higher percentage as may in the future be required by law). In
addition, under the 1940 Act and the Note Purchase Agreement, the Fund may not
(i) declare any dividends with respect to the Preferred Shares if, at the time
of such declaration (and after giving effect thereto), asset coverage with
respect to the Fund's senior securities representing indebtedness, including the
Notes, would be less than 200% (or such higher percentage as may in the future
be required by law) or (ii) declare any other distributions on the Preferred
Shares or purchase or redeem Preferred Shares if at the time of the declaration,
purchase or redemption, as applicable (and after giving effect thereto), asset
coverage with respect to the Fund's senior securities representing indebtedness,
including the Notes, would be less than 300% (or such higher percentage as may
in the future be required by law). Dividends or other distributions on or
purchases or redemptions of Common Stock or Preferred Shares are further
prohibited under the Note Purchase Agreement at any time that payments of
principal of or interest on the Notes are in default. Under the Internal Revenue
Code, the Fund must, among other things, distribute at least 90% of its
investment company taxable income each year in order to maintain its
qualification for tax treatment as a regulated investment company. The foregoing
limitations on dividends, distributions and purchases may under certain
circumstances impair the Fund's ability to maintain such qualification. See
"Federal Taxation."
The asset coverage of a class of senior securities representing
indebtedness, such as the Notes, is defined as the ratio of (i) the total assets
of the Fund, less all liabilities and indebtedness not represented by senior
securities, to (ii) the aggregate amount of senior securities representing
indebtedness of the Fund. The asset coverage of a class of senior securities
representing stock, such as the Preferred Shares (see "Description of Capital
Stock -- Dividends and Distributions"), is defined as the ratio of (i) the total
assets of the Fund, less all liabilities and indebtedness not represented by
senior securities, to (ii) the aggregate amount of senior securities
representing indebtedness of the Fund, plus the aggregate of the liquidation
preference of the Preferred Shares. "Senior securities representing
indebtedness" generally means any bond, debenture, note or similar obligation or
instrument constituting a security (other than stock) and evidencing
indebtedness. For purposes of determining asset coverage for senior securities
representing indebtedness in connection with the payment of dividends or other
distributions on or purchases or redemptions of stock, the term "senior
security" does not include any promissory note or other evidence of indebtedness
issued in consideration of any loan, extension or renewal thereof, made by a
bank or other person and privately arranged, and not intended to be publicly
distributed. The term "senior security" also does not include any such
promissory note or other evidence in any case where such a loan is for temporary
purposes only and in an amount not exceeding 5% of the value of the total assets
of the Fund at the time when the loan is made; a loan is presumed under the 1940
Act to be for temporary purposes if it is repaid within 60 days and is not
extended or renewed; otherwise it is presumed not to be for temporary purposes.
For purposes of determining whether the 300% and 200% asset coverage
requirements described above apply in connection with dividends or distributions
on or purchases or redemptions of Common Stock or Preferred Shares and for
purposes of determining 1940 Act Asset Coverage (as defined below), such asset
coverages may be calculated on the basis of values calculated as of a time
within 48 hours (not including Sundays or holidays) next preceding the time of
the applicable determination. The foregoing definitions reflect the provisions
of the 1940 Act as in effect on the date of the Note Purchase Agreement and are
subject to change to the extent necessary to reflect changes in the 1940 Act, if
any.
Pursuant to the Notes Investment Guidelines, the Note Purchase Agreement
contains a covenant limiting the Fund's ability to incur, assume, guarantee or
otherwise become liable with respect to any indebtedness for money borrowed
unless the incurrence of such indebtedness would not result in a default in the
performance or observance of the Fund's obligation to maintain 1940 Act Asset
Coverage or otherwise cause a violation of Section 18 of the 1940 Act.
The Notes Investment Guidelines as reflected in the Note Purchase Agreement
also prohibit the Fund from creating, incurring or suffering to exist, or
agreeing to create, incur or suffer to exist, or consenting to cause or permit
in the future (upon the happening of a contingency or otherwise) the creation,
incurrence or existence of any material lien, mortgage, pledge, charge, security
interest, security agreement, conditional sale or trust receipt or other
material encumbrance of any sort (collectively, "Liens") upon any of its assets
which are eligible for inclusion in the discounted value of its portfolio,
except for (a) Liens the validity of which is being contested in good faith by
appropriate proceedings, (b) Liens for taxes that are not then due and payable
or that can be paid thereafter without penalty, (c) Liens to secure payment for
services rendered by Bankers Trust Company or its successor as auction agent
with respect to the Preferred Shares and (d) Liens in respect of overnight
borrowings by the Fund not to exceed 5% of the total assets of the Fund at any
time outstanding. The terms of the Note Purchase Agreement also limit the Fund's
ability to employ certain investment strategies. See "Investment Policies and
Limitations -- Certain Investment Strategies."
ASSET MAINTENANCE
The Fund will be required to satisfy two separate asset maintenance
requirements that are incorporated into the terms of the Note Purchase
Agreement. The first of these requirements reflects the provisions of the 1940
Act with respect to asset maintenance for senior securities representing
indebtedness. The second of these requirements reflects the Notes Investment
Guidelines. These requirements are summarized below.
1940 Act Asset Maintenance. As set forth in the Note Purchase Agreement, the
Fund will agree to maintain, as of the last Business Day of each month in which
any of the Notes is outstanding, asset coverage with respect to senior
securities representing indebtedness, including the Notes, of at least 300% (or
such higher percentage as may in the future be specified in the 1940 Act as the
minimum asset coverage for senior securities representing indebtedness of a
closed-end investment company as a condition of paying dividends on common
stock) ("1940 Act Asset Coverage"). See "Restrictive Covenants" above for
certain definitions relating to 1940 Act Asset Coverage.
Note Basic Maintenance Amount. The Fund will be required under the Note
Purchase Agreement to maintain, on each Valuation Date (as defined below),
portfolio holdings meeting the Notes Investment Guidelines (as described under
"Investment Policies and Limitations -- Investment Guidelines") having an
aggregate discounted value at least equal to the Note Basic Maintenance Amount.
In the event that the discounted value of the Fund's portfolio is less than the
Note Basic Maintenance Amount on any Valuation Date while any of the Notes is
outstanding, the Fund will seek to alter the composition of its portfolio so
that, on or before the eighth Business Day after such Valuation Date (the "Cure
Date"), the discounted value of the Fund's portfolio is at least equal to such
Note Basic Maintenance Amount. A "Valuation Date" means (i) the fifteenth day of
each month or, if such day is not a Business Day, the next succeeding Business
Day and (ii) the last Business Day of such month or, in the case of the first
Valuation Date, a date selected by the Fund no more than 15 days after the date
on which the Notes and the Preferred Shares are initially issued.
The "Note Basic Maintenance Amount" as of any date is defined as the dollar
amount equal to the sum of (i) 100% of the aggregate principal amount of the
Notes then outstanding; (ii) an amount equal to interest accrued on the
aggregate principal amount of the Notes then outstanding from the most recent
date to which interest has been paid or duly provided for through the next
succeeding Valuation Date plus all interest to accrue on the Notes during the 63
days following such Valuation Date; (iii) the principal amount of any then
outstanding indebtedness of the Fund for money borrowed (other than the Notes);
and (iv) the greater of $200,000 or the Fund's current liabilities as of such
date to the extent not reflected in any of (i) through (iii) above. The
discounted value of the Fund's portfolio holdings as of any date means the
quotient of the market value (as defined in the Note Purchase Agreement, and
including accrued interest) of each such holding divided by the applicable
discount factor. Any security not in compliance with the Notes Investment
Guidelines (see "Investment Policies and Limitations -- Investment Guidelines")
shall be excluded from the calculation of the discounted value of the Fund's
portfolio holdings.
The discount factors and guidelines for determining the market value of the
Fund's portfolio holdings for purposes of determining compliance with the Note
Basic Maintenance Amount have been based upon criteria established in connection
with the expected rating of the Notes. In determining discount factors, several
factors are taken into consideration. These factors include, but are not limited
to, the sensitivity of the market value of the relevant asset to changes in
interest rates, the liquidity and depth of the market for the relevant asset,
the credit quality of the relevant asset (for example, the lower the rating of a
corporate debt obligation, the higher the related discount factor) and the
frequency with which the relevant asset is marked to market. In no event shall
the discounted value of any asset of the Fund exceed its unpaid principal
balance or face amount as of the date of calculation. The discount factor for
and market value of any asset of the Fund, the method of calculating the
discounted value of any such asset and the Note Basic Maintenance Amount, the
assets eligible for inclusion in the calculation of the discounted value of the
Fund's portfolio and certain related definitions, methods of calculation and
reporting requirements, may be changed without the consent of the holders of the
Notes, provided that, among other things, such changes will not adversely affect
the ratings, if any, then assigned to the Notes by the respective Rating
Agencies.
MERGER AND CONSOLIDATION
The Fund may consolidate with or merge with or into, or transfer its assets
substantially as an entirety to, another corporation, limited partnership or
business trust, or engage in a statutory share exchange under Maryland law,
provided that (i) the successor corporation, limited partnership or business
trust (if other than the Fund) formed by or resulting from any such
consolidation or merger, or the transferee of the Fund's assets, is acceptable
to Pacific Mutual and shall assume payment of the principal of and interest on
the Notes and any other series of Senior Notes and the performance and
observance of the Note Purchase Agreement and (ii) the Fund or such successor
corporation, limited partnership or business trust or transferee shall not
immediately before such transaction or thereafter be in default under the Note
Purchase Agreement.
EVENTS OF DEFAULT
The following are "Events of Default" under the Note Purchase Agreement: (i)
failure to pay principal of any Note when due; (ii) default for five Business
Days in the payment of interest on any Note; (iii) failure to maintain asset
coverage with respect to senior securities representing indebtedness (as such
terms are defined above under "Restrictive Covenants") of at least 100% as of
the last Business Day of each of 24 consecutive months; (iv) failure to have, as
of the last Business Day of any month, 1940 Act Asset Coverage, which failure is
not cured by the last Business Day of the following month (for this purpose,
without limitation, the default will be deemed cured if, within the prescribed
period, the Fund has given an irrevocable notice to the registered holder of the
Notes to call Notes for redemption and that such redemption, alone or together
with other action taken by the Fund, will cause the Fund to have the requisite
1940 Act Asset Coverage); (v) failure to maintain, on each Valuation Date, a
discounted value for the Fund's portfolio equal to at least the Note Basic
Maintenance Amount, which failure is not cured by the applicable Cure Date; (vi)
default in the performance of any other covenant of the Fund under the Note
Purchase Agreement which has continued for 30 days as provided in the Note
Purchase Agreement; (vii) default under any instrument under which the Fund has
issued indebtedness or by which there may be secured or evidenced any
indebtedness of or guaranteed by the Fund, the effect of which is to cause or
permit the holders thereof to cause the acceleration of the maturity thereof,
provided that such default or defaults relate to indebtedness with an aggregate
principal amount in excess of $500,000 and have continued for 30 days as
provided in the Note Purchase Agreement; (viii) the making by the Internal
Revenue Service of a final determination that the Fund does not qualify for any
taxable year as a "regulated investment company" (as defined in the Internal
Revenue Code); (ix) certain events of bankruptcy, insolvency or reorganization;
and (x) the existence for 60 days of unstayed or unsatisfied final judgments
against the Fund in an aggregate amount in excess of $500,000.
If an Event of Default specified in any of clauses (i) through (viii) or (x)
above occurs with respect to the Notes, then and in every such case, the
registered holders of the outstanding Notes may by written notice delivered to
the Fund declare the Notes (or in the case of an Event of Default of the type
specified in clause (iv) or (v), such portion of the Notes as shall be required
under the Note Purchase Agreement to be redeemed) to be due and payable as
provided below. Upon an Event of Default specified in clause (iv), the amount of
Notes subject to mandatory partial redemption will equal the aggregate principal
amount of outstanding Notes (rounded to the next highest increment of $1,000)
the redemption of which would have caused the Fund to meet 1940 Act Asset
Coverage on a pro forma basis as of the last Business Day of the month in which
the failure to maintain 1940 Act Asset Coverage initially occurred. Upon an
Event of Default specified in clause (v), the amount of Notes subject to
mandatory partial redemption will equal the principal amount of outstanding
Notes which could be redeemed using the proceeds from the deemed sale of Special
Note Redemption Assets (rounded to the next highest increment of $1,000).
"Special Note Redemption Assets" are defined as portfolio holdings identified by
the Fund in its sole discretion, the deemed sale of which for cash on the
Valuation Date on which the discounted value of the Fund's portfolio failed to
equal or exceed the Note Basic Maintenance Amount would have resulted in the
Fund achieving the required Note Basic Maintenance Amount on a pro forma basis
as of such Valuation Date.
In the event of a mandatory partial redemption of Notes following an Event
of Default specified in clause (iv) or (v), the payment of principal and
interest on the Notes due as a result of such mandatory partial redemption shall
be due within 45 days after the date on which such Event of Default occurs (in
the case of clause (iv)) and within 34 days after the applicable Cure Date (in
the case of clause (v)). In the event of an acceleration in the maturity of
Notes following an Event of Default specified in any of the other clauses above
other than clause (ix), the Fund shall immediately take action to liquidate
portfolio securities sufficient to pay the principal of and interest on such
Notes. If an Event of Default specified in clause (ix) occurs, the Notes shall
become due and payable immediately without any declaration or other act on the
part of any registered holder of the Notes.
ASSIGNMENT
Pacific Mutual may assign, subject to compliance with the Securities Act or
regulations thereunder or any applicable state securities laws or regulations,
all or any portion of its interest in any rights under the Note Purchase
Agreement and the Notes to any individual, corporation, partnership, joint
venture, association, joint-stock company, trust, unincorporated organization or
government or any agency or political subdivision thereof (individually, the
"Person") or grant participation or beneficial interests in the Note Purchase
Agreement and the Notes to any Person; provided that any assignment or grant of
participation or beneficial interest by Pacific Mutual of its interest in the
Notes shall be of a minimum principal amount of $5,000,000.
Upon any assignment of Pacific Mutual's rights under the Note Purchase
Agreement or under the Notes, any action under the Note Purchase Agreement
requiring the consent of Pacific Mutual and enforcement of any remedies provided
for under the Note Purchase Agreement may only be taken with the consent or at
the direction of the registered holders of more than 50% of the principal amount
of the Notes then outstanding.
CUSTODIAN, TRANSFER AGENTS, DIVIDEND
DISBURSING AGENT, PAYING AGENTS AND REGISTRARS
The Fund's securities and cash are held by State Street Bank and Trust
Company, whose principal business address is Two Heritage Drive, North Quincy,
Massachusetts 02171, as custodian (the "Custodian") under a custodian contract.
The Fund has not selected any foreign custodians or sub-custodians. However, if
the Fund determines that it should have any foreign custodians or sub-custodians
to maintain any of its foreign securities, the Board of Directors will make such
selection following a consideration of a number of factors, including, but not
limited to, the reliability and financial stability of the institution, the
ability of the institution to perform capably custodial services for the Fund,
the reputation of the institution in its national market, the political and
economic stability of the country in which the institution is located, and the
risks of potential nationalization or expropriation of Fund assets.
State Street Bank and Trust Company serves as dividend disbursing agent, as
agent under the Plan and as transfer agent and registrar for the Common Stock.
Bankers Trust Company, whose principal business address is 4 Albany Street, New
York, New York 10006, serves as the Surety Custodian pursuant to the Surety
Custody Agreement for the benefit of the holders of the Preferred Shares and
serves as transfer agent, paying agent and registrar for the Preferred Shares.
LEGAL OPINIONS
The validity of the Shares offered hereby will be passed upon for the Fund
by its special counsel, Rogers & Wells, New York, New York, and by its special
Maryland counsel, Piper & Marbury L.L.P., Baltimore, Maryland. Certain matters
will be passed on for the Dealer Managers by Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher &
Flom (Illinois), Chicago, Illinois.
REPORTS TO SHAREHOLDERS
The Fund will send audited semiannual and audited annual reports to its
shareholders, including a list of investments held.
EXPERTS
The audited Financial Statements included in this Prospectus have been
audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, independent public accountants, as indicated in
their reports with respect thereto, and are included in reliance upon the
authority of said firm as experts in giving said report. The address of Arthur
Andersen LLP is 225 Franklin Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02110.
FURTHER INFORMATION
The Fund has filed with the SEC, Washington, D.C. 20549, a Registration
Statement under the Securities Act with respect to the Shares offered hereby.
Further information concerning these securities and the Fund may be found in the
Registration Statement, of which this Prospectus constitutes a part, on file
with the SEC. The Registration Statement may be inspected without charge at the
SEC's office in Washington, D.C., and copies of all or any part thereof may be
obtained from such office after payment of the fees prescribed by the SEC.
The Fund is subject to the informational requirements of the 1934 Act, and
the 1940 Act, and in accordance therewith files reports and other information
with the SEC. Such reports and other information can be inspected and copied at
the public reference facilities maintained by the SEC at 450 Fifth Street,
Washington, D.C. 20549 and the SEC's regional offices at Seven World Trade
Center, New York, New York 10048. Copies of such material can be obtained from
the Public Reference Section of the SEC at 450 Fifth Street, N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20549 at prescribed rates. Such reports and other information concerning
the Fund may also be inspected at the offices of the Exchange.
<PAGE>
INDEX TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Report of Independent Public Accountants ............................ F-2
Schedule of Investments as of October 31, 1997 ...................... F-3
Balance Sheet as of October 31, 1997 ................................ F-10
Statement of Operations for the Year Ended October 31, 1997 ......... F-11
Statement of Cash Flows for the Year Ended October 31, 1997 ......... F-12
Statement of Changes in Net Assets for the Years Ended October 31,
1996 and 1997 ..................................................... F-13
Financial Highlights for Each Share of Common Stock Outstanding for
the Years Ended October 31, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996 and 1997 ....... F-14
Information Regarding Senior Securities as of October 31, 1993, 1994,
1995, 1996 and 1997 ............................................... F-15
Notes to Financial Statements ....................................... F-16
<PAGE>
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
To the Shareholders and Board of Directors of
Prospect Street High Income Portfolio Inc.:
We have audited the accompanying balance sheet of PROSPECT STREET HIGH
INCOME PORTFOLIO INC., including the schedule of investments, as of October 31,
1997, the related statements of operations and cash flows for the year then
ended, the statements of changes in net assets for the years ended October 31,
1997 and 1996 and the financial highlights for the periods presented. These
financial statements and financial highlights are the responsibility of the
Fund's management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
financial statements and financial highlights based on our audits.
We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain
reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements and financial
highlights are free of material misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a
test basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial
statements. Our procedures included confirmation of investments owned as of
October 31, 1997 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers. An audit also
includes assessing the accounting principles used and significant estimates made
by management, as well as evaluating the overall financial statement
presentation. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our
opinion.
In our opinion, the financial statements and financial highlights referred
to above present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of
Prospect Street High Income Portfolio Inc. as of October 31, 1997, and the
results of its operations, the changes in its net assets, its cash flows and the
financial highlights for the periods presented, in conformity with generally
accepted accounting principles.
ARTHUR ANDERSEN LLP
Boston, Massachusetts
December 5, 1997
<PAGE>
PROSPECT STREET HIGH INCOME PORTFOLIO INC.
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
OCTOBER 31, 1997
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FIXED INCOME -- 90.51%
Ratings
--------------------
Par Standard Value
Value Description & Poor's Moody's (Note 2)
----- ----------- -------- ------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
AEROSPACE AND DEFENSE - 0.23%
$ 500,000 Burke Industries Inc. 10%, sr. notes,
08/15/07, 144A ......................... B+ B2 $ 517,500
------------
AGRICULTURAL CHEMICALS/FARMING - 0.97%
500,000 Calmar Spraying Systems Inc., 11 1/2%, sr.
sub. notes, series B, 08/15/05 .......... B- B3 532,500
500,000 Hines Horticulture Inc., 11 3/4%, sr. sub.
notes, series B, 10/15/05 .............. CCC+ B3 550,000
1,000,000 Iridium Capital Corp., 14%, sr. notes,
series B, 07/15/05 ..................... B- B3 1,060,000
------------
2,142,500
------------
AUTOMOBILE/AUTO PARTS/TRUCK MANUFACTURING
- 5.80%
1,000,000 Aetna Industries Inc., 11 7/8%, sr. notes,
10/01/06 ............................... B- B3 1,015,000
2,500,000 Chatwins Group Inc., 13%, sr. exch. notes,
05/01/03 ............................... B- B2 2,625,000
500,000 Chief Auto Parts Inc., 10 1/2%, sr. notes,
05/15/05 ............................... B B2 487,500
4,500,000 Highway Master Communication, 13 3/4%, sr.
notes, 09/15/05 ........................ B Caa 4,432,500
1,250,000 Iochpe-Maxion SA, 12 3/8%, notes, 11/08/02 NR NR 1,225,000
1,000,000 Localiza Rent a Car, 10 1/4%, sr. notes,
10/01/05, 144A ......................... BB- B2 900,000
500,000 Motors & Gears Inc., 10 3/4%, sr. notes,
series B, 11/15/06 ..................... B B3 530,000
750,000 Simula Inc., 8%, conv. sr. sub. notes,
05/01/04 ............................... NR NR 821,250
781,000 Venture Holdings Trust, 9 3/4%, sr. sub.
notes, 04/01/04 ........................ B- B3 781,000
------------
12,817,250
------------
BANKS/SAVINGS AND LOANS/FINANCE COMPANIES/
CONSUMER CREDIT - 2.60%
1,000,000 Bank Plus Corp.,12%, sr. notes, 07/18/07 . NR NR 1,120,000
500,000 Emergent Group Inc., 10 3/4%, sr. notes,
09/15/04, 144A ......................... B- B3 485,000
1,500,000 Life Federal Savings Bank,13 1/2%, sub.
debs, 03/15/04 ......................... NR NR 1,515,000
500,000 Local Financial Corp., 11%, sr. notes,
09/05/04, 144A ......................... NR NR 525,000
1,000,000 Mego Mortgage, 12 1/2%, sr. sub. notes,
12/01/01 ............................... B Caa 1,000,000
1,000,000 Ocwen Federal Bank, 12%, sub. debs.,
06/15/05 ............................... B+ B1 1,090,000
------------
5,735,000
------------
BROADCASTING - TV/CABLE/RADIO/PUBLISHING -
14.13%
8,858 Australis Media Ltd., 0%, gtd. sr. secd.
disc. notes, 05/15/03 .................. NR Caa 6,466
1,000,000 Australis Media Ltd., 0%, sr. secd. disc.
notes, 05/15/03 ........................ NR Caa 750,000
500,000 Busse Broadcasting Corp., 11 5/8%, sr.
secd. notes, 10/15/00 .................. NR B3 533,750
10,000,000 CAI Wireless System Inc., 12 1/4%, sr.
disc. notes, 09/15/02 .................. CCC+ Caa 3,100,000
9,000,000 CS Wireless Systems Inc., 0%, sr. disc.
notes, series B, 03/01/06 .............. CCC+ Caa 2,565,000
6,000,000 DIVA Systems Corp., 0%, sub. disc. notes,
05/15/06, 144A ......................... NR NR 5,190,000
750,000 Emerson Radio Corp., 8 1/2%, conv. sr.
sub. deb, 08/15/02, 144A ............... NR NR 435,000
750,000 Emerson Radio Corp., 8 1/2%, conv. sr.
sub. deb, 08/15/02 ..................... NR NR 472,500
500,000 Galaxy Telecom, L.P., 12 3/8%, sr. sub.
notes, 10/01/05 ........................ B- B3 553,750
1,000,000 Global Star L.P., 11 1/4%, sr. notes,
06/15/04, 144A ......................... B B3 985,000
3,000,000 Global Star L.P., 10 3/4%, sr. notes,
11/01/04, 144A ......................... B B3 2,857,500
1,250,000 Heartland Wireless, 14%, sr. notes, series
B, 10/15/04 ............................ B B3 587,500
1,000,000 Katz Media Corp., 10 1/2%, sr. sub. notes,
series B, 01/15/07 ..................... B B2 1,085,000
1,000,000 Net Sat Services, 12 3/4%, sr. notes,
08/05/04 ............................... B B2 1,030,000
3,500,000 Optel Inc., 13%, sr. notes, series B,
02/15/05 ............................... B- B3 3,587,500
1,750,000 Paxson Communications Corp., 11 5/8%, sr.
sub. notes, 10/01/02 ................... B- B3 1,907,500
500,000 Radio One, Inc., 7%, sr. sub. notes,
05/15/04, 144A ......................... NR NR 481,250
500,000 RBS Participaco, 14%, notes, 12/15/03 .... BB- NR 575,000
2,000,000 Source Media Inc., 12%, sr. secd. notes,
11/01/04, 144A ......................... B- B3 2,000,000
2,000,000 Spanish Broadcasting System Inc., 12 1/2%,
sr. notes, 06/15/02 .................... B B2 2,270,000
500,000 Wireless One Inc., 13%, sr. disc. notes,
10/15/03 ............................... B- B3 240,000
------------
31,212,716
------------
DIVERSIFIED/CONGLOMERATE MANUFACTURING -
2.05%
500,000 Amtrol Acquisition Inc., 10 5/8%, sr. sub.
notes, 12/31/06 ........................ B- B3 506,250
1,000,000 Genmar Holdings Inc., 13 1/2%, sr. sub.
notes, series A, 07/15/01 .............. CCC- Caa 1,027,500
1,000,000 Haynes International Inc., 11 5/8%, sr.
notes, 09/01/04 ........................ B- B3 1,160,000
500,000 MVE Inc., 12 1/2%, sr. secd. notes,
02/15/02 ............................... B+ B3 500,000
500,000 Selmer Inc., 11%, sr. sub. notes, 05/15/05 B B3 550,000
500,000 Spinnaker Industries Inc., 10 3/4%, sr.
secd. notes, 10/15/06 .................. B B3 515,000
250,000 Therma Wave Inc., 10 5/8%, sr. notes,
series B, 05/15/04 ..................... B B2 266,250
------------
4,525,000
------------
DIVERSIFIED/CONGLOMERATE SERVICES - 0.27%
550,000 Coinmach Corp., 11 3/4%, sr. notes, series
B, 11/15/05 ............................ B+ B2 599,500
------------
ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT/ELECTRONICS/COMPUTERS
- 1.40%
1,750,000 Computervision Corp., 11 3/8%, sr. sub.
notes, 08/15/99 ........................ B- B3 1,050,000
500,000 International Wire Group Inc., 11 3/4%,
sr. sub. notes, 06/01/05 ............... B- B3 545,000
990,000 Real Time Data Inc., 0%, sub. disc. notes,
08/15/06, 144A ......................... NR NR 564,300
1,000,000 Unifi Communications Inc., 14%, sr. notes,
03/01/04 ............................... NR NR 940,000
------------
3,099,300
------------
FINANCIAL SERVICES - 1.88%
1,000,000 Beal Financial Corp., 12 3/4%, sr. notes,
08/15/00 ............................... B- B2 1,070,000
425,000 First Federal Financial Corp., 11 3/4%,
notes, 10/01/04 ........................ B+ B2 467,500
500,000 Ocwen Financial Corp., 11 7/8%, notes,
10/01/03 ............................... B+ B1 560,000
2,000,000 Wilshire Financial Services Group Inc.,
13%, notes, 01/01/04 ................... NR NR 2,065,000
------------
4,162,500
------------
FOOD/TOBACCO - 10.41%
346,978 American Restaurant Group Inc., 13%,
series 92, sr. secd. notes, 09/15/98 ... B- Caa 340,038
2,500,000 American Rice Inc., 13%, mtg. notes,
07/31/02 ............................... B- Caa 2,500,000
250,000 AmeriKing Inc., 10 3/4%, sr. notes,
12/01/06 ............................... B- B3 265,000
3,228,442 Cafeteria Operators L.P., 12%, sr. secd.
notes, 12/31/01 ........................ NR NR 3,309,154
1,000,000 Doane Products Co., 10 5/8%, sr. notes,
03/01/06 ............................... B B3 1,065,000
500,000 Envirodyne Industries Inc., 10 1/4%, sr.
notes, 12/01/01 ........................ B- B3 493,750
1,000,000 Gorges Quik to Fix Foods Inc., 11 1/2%,
sr. sub. notes, series B, 12/01/06 ..... B- B3 1,035,000
500,000 International Home Foods Inc., 10 3/8%,
sr. sub. notes, 11/01/06 ............... B- B2 530,000
1,000,000 Krystal Company, 10 1/4%, sr. notes,
10/01/07 ............................... B+ B1 1,003,750
250,000 Liggett Group Inc., 16 1/2%, notes,
02/01/99 ............................... NR NR 175,000
3,070,000 Liggett Group Inc., 11 1/2%, gtd. sr.
secd. notes, series B, 02/01/99 ........ NR NR 1,964,800
500,000 North Atlantic Trading Inc., 11%, sr.
notes, 06/15/04, 144A .................. B B3 512,500
3,750,000 P&C Food Markets Inc., 11 1/2%, sr. notes,
10/15/01 ............................... B B3 3,543,750
3,000,000 Specialty Foods Corp., 11 1/4%, sr. sub.
notes, series B, 08/15/03 .............. CCC Caa 2,865,000
1,000,000 Sun World International Inc., 11 1/4%,
1st. mtg. notes, 04/15/04, 144A ........ B B2 1,055,000
1,000,000 Toms Foods Inc., 10 1/2%, sr. secd. notes,
11/01/04, 144A ......................... B B3 1,000,000
500,000 Unicco Service Co., 9 7/8%, sr. sub.
notes, 10/15/07, 144A .................. B- B3 495,000
750,000 Van De Kamps Inc., 12%, sr. sub. notes,
09/15/05 ............................... B- B2 832,500
------------
22,985,242
------------
GENERAL & SPECIALTY RETAIL - 1.65%
750,000 Hills Stores Co., 12 1/2%, sr. notes,
series B, 07/01/03 ..................... B- B2 562,500
1,000,000 Mothers Work Inc., 12 5/8%, sr. notes,
08/01/05 ............................... B B3 1,060,000
1,000,000 SRI Receivable Pure Inc., 12 1/2%, tr.
ctf. backed notes, series B, 12/15/00 .. NR NR 1,030,000
1,000,000 Wilsons Leather Experts Inc., 11 1/4%, sr.
notes, 08/15/04, 144A .................. B+ B3 990,000
------------
3,642,500
------------
GROCERY/CONVENIENCE FOOD STORES - 0.18%
351,000 Pantry Inc., 12%, sr. notes, series B,
11/15/00 ............................... B+ B2 386,100
------------
HEALTHCARE/DRUGS/HOSPITAL SUPPLIES - 3.62%
750,000 Complete Management Inc., 8%, conv. sub.
debs., 08/15/03 ........................ NR NR 937,500
500,000 Complete Management Inc., 8%, conv. sub.
debs., 12/15/03 ........................ NR NR 540,000
3,000,000 Phar Mor Inc., 11.72%, notes, 09/11/02 ... B- B3 3,150,000
500,000 Signature Brands, Inc., 13%, sr. sub.
notes, 08/15/02 ........................ B- B3 495,000
3,000,000 Urohealth System Inc., 12 1/2%, sr. sub.
notes, 04/01/04 ........................ B- B3 2,880,000
------------
8,002,500
------------
HOME FURNISHINGS/DURABLE CONSUMER PRODUCTS
- 1.31%
1,000,000 E&S Holdings Corp., 10 3/8%, sr. sub.
notes, 10/01/06 ........................ B- B3 845,000
500,000 Omega Cabinets Ltd., 10 1/2%, sr. sub.
notes, 06/15/07, 144A .................. B- B3 520,000
1,000,000 Simmons Co., 10 3/4%, sr. sub. notes,
04/15/06 ............................... B B2 1,040,000
500,000 Syratech Corp., 11%, sr. notes, 04/15/07 . B B1 480,000
------------
2,885,000
------------
HOTEL/GAMING - 0.36%
500,000 Courtyard By Mariott II Ltd., 10 3/4%, sr.
secd. notes, series B, 02/01/08 ........ B- NR 540,000
295,842 U.S. Trails Inc., 12%, sr. sub. pik notes,
07/15/03(b) ............................ NR NR 266,258
------------
806,258
------------
INSURANCE COMPANIES - 0.70%
1,500,000 Resource America Inc., 12%, sr. notes,
08/01/04, 144A ......................... NR Caa 1,556,250
------------
LEISURE/AMUSEMENT/MOTION PICTURES - 1.28%
1,000,000 Cobblestone Golf Group Inc., 11 1/2%, sr.
notes, series B, 06/01/03 .............. B B2 1,045,000
750,000 Discovery Zone Inc., 13 1/2%, sr. secd.
notes, 08/01/02 ........................ NR NR 791,250
1,500,000 Jumbo Sports Inc., 4 1/4%, conv. sub.
notes, 11/01/00 ........................ B- Caa 982,500
------------
2,818,750
------------
MACHINERY - 1.91%
1,000,000 Central Tractor Farm Country, 10 5/8%, sr.
notes, 04/01/07 ........................ B+ B2 1,030,000
3,250,000 Willcox & Gibbs Inc., 12 1/4%, sr. notes,
series B, 12/15/03 ..................... B+ B2 3,185,000
------------
4,215,000
------------
METALS/MINING - 5.54%
1,500,000 Algoma Steel Inc., 12 3/8%, 1st. mtg.
notes, 07/15/05 ........................ B B1 1,725,000
1,000,000 Anker Coal Group Inc., 9 3/4%, sr. notes,
10/01/07, 144A ......................... B B3 1,015,000
1,500,000 Continental Global Group Inc., 11%, sr.
notes, series B, 04/01/07 .............. B B2 1,590,000
750,000 GS Technologies Inc., 12%, gtd. sr. notes,
09/01/04 ............................... B B2 815,625
1,000,000 Gulf States Steel, 13 1/2%, 1st mtg.
notes, series, B, 04/15/03 ............. B- B1 1,030,000
500,000 International Knife and Saw, 11 3/8%, sr.
sub. notes, 11/15/06 ................... B- B3 535,000
2,000,000 IVACO Inc., 11 1/2%, sr. notes, 09/15/05 . B+ B1 2,210,000
1,000,000 Maxxam Group Inc., 11 1/4%, sr. secd.
notes, 08/01/03 ........................ CCC+ B3 1,055,000
450,000 NS Group Inc., 13 1/2%, sr. secd. notes,
07/15/03 ............................... B- B3 515,250
500,000 Royal Oak Mines Inc., 11%, sr. sub. notes,
series B, 08/15/06 ..................... B- B3 470,000
500,000 Sheffield Steel Corp., 12%, 1st. mtg.
notes, 11/01/01 ........................ B- Caa 515,000
750,000 Sheffield Steel Corp., 12%, 1st. mtg.
notes, 11/01/01 ........................ B- Caa 772,500
------------
12,248,375
------------
NON-AGRICULTURAL CHEMICALS/PLASTICS -
0.49%
1,000,000 Plastic Specialties & Technologies Inc.,
11 1/4%, bonds, 12/01/03 ............... NR B3 1,082,500
------------
OIL/NATURAL GAS/OIL SERVICES - 1.64%
436,000 HarCor Energy Inc., 14 7/8%, sr. secd.
notes, series B, 07/15/02 .............. B- B3 510,120
3,000,000 United Refining Co., 10 3/4%, sr. notes,
06/15/07, 144A ......................... B- B2 3,105,000
------------
3,615,120
------------
PACKAGING/CONTAINERS - 2.59%
3,250,000 Crown Packaging Ltd., 10 3/4%, sr. secd.
notes, series B, 11/01/00 .............. NR Caa 3,022,500
500,000 Portola Packaging Inc., 10 3/4%, sr.
notes, 10/01/05 ........................ B B2 520,000
2,000,000 Tekni-Plex Inc., 11 1/4%, sr. sub. notes,
series B, 04/01/07 ..................... B- B3 2,185,000
------------
5,727,500
------------
PAPER/FOREST PRODUCTS/PRINTING - 1.67%
325,000 American Pad & Paper Company, 13%,
sr. sub. notes, series B, 11/15/05 ..... B- B3 377,812
500,000 Day International Group, Inc., 11 1/8%,
sr. sub. notes, series B, 06/01/05 ..... B- B3 532,500
2,000,000 Fonda Group Inc., 9 1/2%, sr. sub. notes,
series B, 03/01/07 ..................... B- B3 1,900,000
1,000,000 FSW International Finance Co., 12 1/2%,
gtd. sub. notes, 11/01/06 .............. B+ B1 880,000
------------
3,690,312
------------
PERSONAL & MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES - 1.94%
500,000 Anchor Advanced Products Inc., 11 3/4%,
sr. notes, series B, 04/01/04 .......... B+ B3 530,000
750,000 ICON Health & Fitness Inc., 13%, sr. sub.
notes, series B, 07/15/02 .............. CCC+ NR 840,000
3,000,000 T/SF Communications Corp., 10 3/8%, sr.
sub. notes, 11/01/07, 144A ............. B- B3 2,910,000
------------
4,280,000
------------
POLLUTION CONTROL/WASTE REMOVAL - 0.12%
250,000 Compania de Infraes & Services, 11 5/8%,
gtd. sr. notes, 06/01/04, 144A ......... BB NR 263,750
-----------
PUBLIC UTILITY/ELECTRIC POWER/HYDRO POWER - 1.18%
2,000,000 Gothic Energy Corp., 12 1/4%, sr. notes,
09/01/04 ............................... NR NR 2,080,000
500,000 Texas New Mexico Power Co., 12 1/2%,
debs., 01/15/99 ........................ BB- Ba3 532,500
------------
2,612,500
------------
RAIL/TRUCKING/OVERNIGHT DELIVERY - 1.69%
375,000 Aftermarket Technology Corp., 12%, sr.
sub. notes, series B, 08/01/04 ......... NR B3 416,250
1,500,000 Golden Ocean Group Ltd., 10%, sr. notes,
08/31/01 ............................... CCC+ B3 1,237,500
750,000 Johnstown America Industries Inc.,
11 3/4%, sr. sub. notes,
series B, 08/15/05, 144A ............... B B3 810,000
667,000 Terex Corp., 13 1/4%, sr. secd. notes,
05/15/02 ............................... B- Caa 763,715
500,000 TFM, 10 1/4%, sr. notes, 06/15/07, 144A .. B+ B2 500,000
------------
3,727,465
------------
REAL ESTATE DEVELOPMENT/REITS/BUILDING/
CONSTRUCTION - 1.79%
290,820 Bramalea Limited, 11 1/8%, 03/22/98 ...... NR NR 72,705
1,000,000 ICF Kaiser International Inc., 13%, sr.
sub. notes, 12/31/03 ................... B- B3 1,030,000
2,000,000 ICF Kaiser International Inc., 12%, sr.
sub. notes, 12/31/03 ................... B- B3 2,070,000
750,000 Peters, J.M., Inc., 12 3/4%, sr. notes,
05/01/02 ............................... B- B3 772,500
------------
3,945,205
------------
TELEPHONE/COMMUNICATIONS - 13.97%
500,000 Alvey Systems, Inc., 11 3/8%, sr. sub.
notes, 01/31/03 ........................ B- B3 515,000
1,750,000 American Communications Services, Inc.,
13 3/4%, sr. notes, 07/15/07, 144A ..... NR NR 1,977,500
1,000,000 BTI Telecom Corp., 10 1/2%, sr. notes,
09/15/07, 144A ......................... B+ B2 975,000
2,000,000 Cell Net Data System Inc., 0%, sr. disc.
notes, 10/01/07, 144A .................. NR NR 1,010,000
1,000,000 Echostar DBS Corp., 12 1/2%, sr. secd.
notes, 07/01/02, 144A .................. B- NR 1,057,500
500,000 Econophone Inc., 13 1/2%, sr. notes,
07/15/07, 144A ......................... NR NR 540,000
4,000,000 Hyperion Telecommunications Inc., 12 1/4%,
sr. secd. notes, 09/01/04, 144A ........ B NR 4,240,000
1,000,000 Innova S. De R. L., 12 7/8%, sr. notes,
04/01/07 ............................... B- B2 1,025,000
2,000,000 Ionica PLC, 0%, sr. disc. notes, 05/01/07 NR B3 1,090,000
1,000,000 Knology Holdings Inc., 0%, sr. disc.
notes, 10/15/07 ........................ NR NR 520,000
5,000,000 MGC Communications Inc., 13%, sr. secd.
notes, 10/01/04, 144A .................. B Caa 4,950,000
1,000,000 Occidente Y Caribe Cellular, 0%, sr. disc.
notes, series B, 03/15/04 .............. B B3 750,000
4,500,000 Orbcomm Global L.P., 14%, sr. notes,
08/15/04 ............................... NR B3 4,713,750
2,750,000 Phonetel Technologies Inc., 12%, sr.
notes, 12/15/06 ........................ B- B2 2,811,875
500,000 Powertel Inc., 11 1/8%, sr. notes,
06/01/07 ............................... B B2 525,000
1,450,000 Telemundo Group Inc., 7%, sr. notes,
02/15/06 ............................... B B1 1,392,000
1,000,000 Tevecap SA, 12 5/8%, sr. notes, 11/26/04 . B B2 1,010,000
650,000 Winstar Communications Inc., 14%, sr.
disc. notes, 10/15/05 .................. NR NR 487,500
325,000 Winstar Communications Inc., 0%, conv. sr.
disc. notes, 10/15/05, 144A ............ NR NR 230,750
1,000,000 Winstar Equipment Corp., 12 1/2%, gtd. sr.
secd. exch. notes, 03/15/04 ............ CCC+ B3 1,042,500
------------
30,863,375
------------
TEXTILES/OTHER MANUFACTURING/APPAREL -
2.34%
2,000,000 Brazos Sportswear Inc., 10 1/2%, sr.
notes, 07/01/07 ........................ B+ B2 1,970,000
1,000,000 Glenoit Corp., 11%, sr. sub. notes,
04/15/07, 144A ......................... B- B2 1,055,000
2,000,000 Hosiery Corporation of America Inc.,
13 3/4%, sr. sub. notes, 08/01/02 ...... B- B3 2,140,000
542 JPS Cap Corp., 0%, contingent pay. notes,
09/10/98 ............................... NR NR 466
------------
5,165,466
------------
TRANSPORTATION/AIRLINES/BUS - 4.80%
1,000,000 CHC Helicopter Corp., 11 1/2%, sr. sub.
notes, 07/15/02 ........................ B- B3 1,065,000
1,000,000 Global Ocean Carriers Ltd., 10 1/4%, sr.
notes, 07/15/07, 144A .................. B+ B2 975,000
1,460,949 Mexico City Toluca Toll, 11%, notes,
05/19/02, 144A ......................... NR NR 1,417,120
1,000,000 Sabreliner Corp., 12 1/2%, sr. notes,
series B, 04/15/03 ..................... B B2 1,010,000
2,000,000 Trans World Airlines Inc., 12%, sr. secd.
notes, 04/01/02 ........................ NR NR 2,480,000
985,583 Tribasa Toll Road Trust, 10 1/2%, notes,
12/01/11 ............................... NR NR 827,890
985,583 Tribasa Toll Road Trust, 10 1/2%, notes,
series A, 12/01/11, 144A ............... NR NR 827,890
2,000,000 Valujet Airlines Inc., 10 1/2%, sr. secd.
notes, 04/15/01, 144A .................. NR NR 2,005,000
------------
10,607,900
------------
TOTAL FIXED INCOME (cost $198,461,345) .......................... $199,938,334
------------
COMMON STOCK AND WARRANTS -- 5.56%
<CAPTION>
Value
Units Description (Note 2)
----- ----------- --------
<S> <C> <C>
10,500 Ambassador Apartments Inc. ...................................... $ 225,094
10,000 American Capital Strategies ..................................... 180,000
13,550 American Communications Services, Inc.* ......................... 1,422,750
500,000 American Communications Services, Inc.* ......................... 470,250
2,000 American Telecasting Inc., warrants* ............................ 5,000
185,900 Ames Department Stores Inc., excess cash flow pmt., series A .... 0
594,876 Ames Department Stores Inc., lit. trust units ................... 0
10,000 Annaly Mortgage Management Inc .................................. 118,750
50,000 Annaly Mortgage Management Inc. ................................. 550,000
5,925 Capital Pac Holdings Inc., warrants, 144A* ...................... 22
1,000 Central Rents Inc., 144A ........................................ 60,000
750 Chattem Inc., warrants* ......................................... 3,000
100,000 Commodore Separation Technology, sr. conv. preferred ............ 775,000
100,000 Commodore Separation Technology ................................. 87,500
33,000 Cort Business Services Corp., warrants* ......................... 132,000
500 County Seat Holdings Inc., warrants* ............................ 0
20,000 Criimi Mae Inc., conv. preferred, series B ...................... 725,000
4,000 Crown America Realty Trust ...................................... 217,000
550 CS Wireless Systems Inc., 144A* ................................. 17,050
20,000 Engel General Developers Ltd.* .................................. 166,250
20,000 Excel Realty Trust Inc. ......................................... 602,500
2,000 Globalstar Telecommunications, warrants, 144A* .................. 0
1,500 Golden Ocean Group Ltd. ......................................... 123,750
11,000 HarCor Energy Inc., warrants* ................................... 0
500 HDA Management Corp., warrants* ................................. 0
20,000 Health & Retirement Properties Trust ............................ 375,000
1,500 Heartland Wireless Communications, warrants, 144A* .............. 1,500
10,000 Hospitality Properties Trust .................................... 355,625
4,800 ICF Kaiser International Inc., warrants* ........................ 0
750 IHF Capital Inc., warrants, 144A* ............................... 45,000
15,000 Imperial Credit Commercial Mortgage Investments Corp.* .......... 247,500
750 Intermedia Communications of Florida Inc., warrants, 144A* ...... 74,250
2,000 Ionica PLC, warrants* ........................................... 0
49,970 JPS Textile Group, Inc.* ........................................ 674,595
25,000 Local Financial Corp., 144A ..................................... 281,250
500 Motels of America Inc., 144A* ................................... 500
20,000 National Propane Partners L.P. .................................. 440,000
750 NS Group Inc.* .................................................. 0
4,000 Occidente Y Caribe Cellular, warrants, 144A* .................... 0
3,500 Optel Inc.* ..................................................... 35
2,000 Orion Network Systems Inc. ...................................... 35,000
125,449 Prime Retail Inc. ............................................... 1,873,894
1,000 Sabreliner Corp., warrants* ..................................... 0
500 Spanish Broadcasting Corp., warrants* ........................... 175,000
15,000 Supermarkets General Holdings Corp., exchangeable preferred ..... 345,000
4,000 Terex Corp., rights* ............................................ 80,000
5,133 Trans World Airlines Inc.* ...................................... 38,177
2,000 Trans World Airlines Inc., warrants* ............................ 0
25,000 Ugly Duckling Corp.* ............................................ 296,875
1,000 Unifi Communications Inc., warrants, 144A* ...................... 0
9,800 Uniroyal Technology Corp., warrants* ............................ 9,800
20,000 Walden Residential Properties, conv. preferred, series B ........ 560,000
5,000 WBK Strypes Trust ............................................... 155,000
7,000 WHX Corp., preferred* ........................................... 344,750
1,500 Wireless One Inc., warrants* .................................... 0
------------
TOTAL COMMON STOCK AND WARRANTS (cost $10,649,928) .............. 12,289,667
------------
TOTAL INVESTMENTS IN SECURITIES (cost $209,111,273) ............. 212,228,001
------------
OTHER ASSETS - 3.93% ............................................ 8,669,705
------------
TOTAL ASSETS - 100% ............................................. $220,897,706
============
* Non-income producing security.
(a) Percentages indicated are based on total assets.
(b) Pay in kind.
NR denotes not rated.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
PROSPECT STREET HIGH INCOME PORTFOLIO INC.
BALANCE SHEET
October 31, 1997
ASSETS
Investments in securities at value (identified cost $209,111,273;
see Schedule of Investments and Note 2) ....................... $212,228,001
Receivables:
Investment securities sold .................................... 3,457,384
Interest and dividends ........................................ 5,064,840
Deferred debt issuance costs (Note 2) ........................... 4,997
Deferred auction agent fees (Note 6) ............................ 27,003
Prepaid surety bond premiums (Note 7) ........................... 7,012
Prepaid insurance ............................................... 83,174
Other assets .................................................... 25,295
------------
Total assets ............................................ $220,897,706
------------
LIABILITIES
Payables:
Investment securities purchased ............................... $ 2,439,382
Due to bank ................................................... 1,591,286
Accrued expenses (Note 3) ....................................... 958,136
Senior notes (Note 4) ........................................... 20,000,000
------------
Total liabilities ....................................... $ 24,988,804
------------
Net Assets:
Taxable auction rate preferred stock, no par value --
Authorized -- 1,000 shares
Issued -- 200 shares, liquidation preference of $100,000 per
share (Notes 5 and 7) ..................................... $ 20,000,000
------------
Common stock, $.01 par value --
Authorized -- 100,000,000 shares
Issued and outstanding -- 44,146,293 shares ................. $ 441,463
Capital in excess of par value (Notes 2 and 5) ................ 230,120,834
Accumulated undistributed net investment income (Note 2) ...... 2,845,247
Accumulated net realized loss from security transactions ...... (60,615,370)
Net unrealized appreciation of investments .................... 3,116,728
------------
Net assets applicable to common stock (equivalent to
$3.98 per share, based on 44,146,293 shares outstanding) $175,908,902
------------
Total net assets .................................... $195,908,902
============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
<PAGE>
PROSPECT STREET HIGH INCOME PORTFOLIO INC.
STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS
For the year ended October 31, 1997
INVESTMENT INCOME (Note 2):
Interest income ............................................... $18,589,675
Dividend income ............................................... 645,812
Accretion of discount ......................................... 1,999,323
Other income .................................................. 66,032
-----------
Total investment income ................................. $21,300,842
===========
EXPENSES:
Interest expense .............................................. $ 1,305,999
Investment advisory fee (Note 3) .............................. 1,146,665
Custodian and transfer agent fees ............................. 169,999
Preferred dividend auction costs .............................. 125,290
Professional fees ............................................. 159,002
Miscellaneous expenses ........................................ 156,047
Amortization of prepaid surety bond premiums (Note 7) ......... 80,001
Directors' fees ............................................... 91,165
Insurance expense ............................................. 107,595
Amortization of deferred auction agent fees (Note 6) .......... 26,999
Excise tax expense ............................................ 70,060
-----------
Total expenses .......................................... $ 3,438,822
-----------
Net investment income ................................... $17,862,020
-----------
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN/(LOSS) ON INVESTMENTS:
Net realized gain on investments sold ......................... $ 4,773,501
Change in net unrealized depreciation of investments (Note 2) . 4,499,052
----------
Net realized and unrealized gain on investments ......... $ 9,272,553
----------
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations .... $27,134,573
DISTRIBUTIONS TO PREFERRED STOCKHOLDERS ($5,456 per share) ...... (1,091,099)
-----------
Net increase in net assets applicable to common
stockholders .......................................... $26,043,474
===========
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
<PAGE>
PROSPECT STREET HIGH INCOME PORTFOLIO INC.
STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
For the year ended October 31, 1997
CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Interest and dividends received .......................... $ 19,053,136
Operating expenses paid .................................. (1,807,203)
-------------
Net cash provided by operating activities .......... $ 17,245,933
-------------
CASH FLOWS FROM INVESTING ACTIVITIES:
Purchases of portfolio securities ........................ $(370,804,113)
Sales and maturities of portfolio securities ............. 323,702,189
-------------
Net cash used in investing activities .............. $ (47,101,924)
-------------
CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:
Net proceeds from common stock rights offering and sale
of common stock ........................................ 44,499,053
Preferred stock dividends paid ........................... (1,091,099)
Common stock dividends paid from operations .............. (15,053,657)
-------------
Net cash provided by financing activities .......... $ 28,354,297
-------------
NET DECREASE IN CASH ....................................... $ (1,501,694)
CASH, BEGINNING OF PERIOD .................................. 1,501,694
-------------
CASH, END OF PERIOD ........................................ $ --
=============
RECONCILIATION OF NET INCREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING
FROM OPERATIONS TO NET CASH PROVIDED BY OPERATING ACTIVITIES:
Net increase in net assets resulting from operations ... $ 27,134,573
Increase in interest and dividend receivables .......... (409,580)
Amortization of Fidelity Bond and other deferred assets 32,000
Increase in other assets ............................... (74,567)
Increase in accrued expenses and other payables ........ 1,674,186
Net realized gain on investments sold .................. (4,773,501)
Change in net unrealized depreciation of investments ... (4,499,052)
Accretion of bond discount ............................. (1,838,126)
-------------
Net cash provided by operating activities .......... $ 17,245,933
=============
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURE OF CASH FLOW INFORMATION:
Cash paid during the year for interest ................... $ 1,305,999
Cash paid during the year for excise taxes ............... 70,060
=============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
<PAGE>
PROSPECT STREET HIGH INCOME PORTFOLIO INC.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
Fiscal Year Ended Fiscal Year Ended
October 31, October 31,
1997 1996
------------ ------------
<S> <C> <C>
FROM OPERATIONS:
Net investment income ................................ $ 17,862,020 $ 13,628,745
Net realized gain on investments sold ................ 4,773,501 351,405
Change in net unrealized depreciation of investments . 4,499,052 5,074,470
------------ ------------
Net increase in net assets resulting from
operations ................................... $ 27,134,573 $ 19,054,620
------------ ------------
FROM FUND SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
Shares issued (290,871 shares and 353,455 shares,
respectively) to common stockholders for
reinvestment of dividends .......................... $ 1,146,681 $ 1,333,077
Net proceeds from sale of common stock issued
(12,918,092 and 5,393,885 shares, after deducting
$2,167,500 and $996,862 of soliciting fees and other
expenses), respectively ............................ 44,208,450 19,553,840
------------ ------------
Increase in net assets resulting from fund share
transactions ................................. $ 45,355,131 $ 20,886,917
------------ ------------
DISTRIBUTIONS TO STOCKHOLDERS:
Preferred dividends ($5,456 and $5,679 per share,
respectively) ...................................... $(1,091,099) $ (1,135,736)
Common dividends ($.42 and $.42 per share,
respectively) from operations ...................... (16,200,344) (11,404,136)
------------ ------------
Decrease in net assets resulting from
distributions to stockholders ................ (17,291,443) (12,539,872)
------------ ------------
Total net increase in net assets ............... $ 55,198,261 $ 27,401,665
NET ASSETS:
Beginning of period .................................. 140,710,641 113,308,976
------------ ------------
End of period (including $2,845,247 and $2,018,708 of
undistributed net investment income as of October
31, 1997 and 1996, respectively) ................... $195,908,902 $140,710,641
============ ============
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
PROSPECT STREET HIGH INCOME PORTFOLIO INC.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
SELECTED PER SHARE DATA AND RATIOS
FOR EACH SHARE OF COMMON STOCK OUTSTANDING THROUGHOUT THE PERIODS PRESENTED
For the Years Ended October 31,
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1997 1996 1995 1994 1993
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value, beginning of period ... $ 3.90 $ 3.70 $ 3.69 $ 4.25 $ 4.03
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Net investment income .................. .46# .50# .45 .48# .63#
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments........................ .24# .20# .03 (.38)# .39#
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total from investment operations $ .70 $ .70 $ .48 $ .10 $ 1.02
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Distributions:
Dividends from accumulated net
investment income
To preferred stockholders .......... (.03) (.04) (.05) (.03) (.06)
To common stockholders ............. (.42) (.42) (.42) (.45) (.62)
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Total distributions ............ $ (.45) $ (.46) $ (.47) $ (.48) $ (.68)
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Effect of sale of common stock and
related expenses from rights offering $ (.17) $ (.04) $ -- $ (.18) $ (.12)
-------- -------- -------- -------- --------
Net asset value, end of period ......... $ 3.98 $ 3.90 $ 3.70 $ 3.69 $ 4.25
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Per share market value, end of period .. $ 4.13 $ 4.00 $ 3.88 $ 3.50 $ 4.25
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Total investment return ................ 14.82% 15.29% 28.57% (7.78)% 23.25%
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Net assets, end of period, applicable to
common stock (a) ..................... $175,909 $120,711 $ 93,309 $ 92,072 $ 79,438
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Net assets, end of period, applicable to
preferred stock (a) .................. $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000 $ 20,000
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Net assets, end of period (a) .......... $195,909 $140,711 $113,309 $112,072 $ 99,438
======== ======== ======== ======== ========
Ratio of operating expenses to average
net assets, applicable to common stock 2.30% 3.06% 3.27% 3.27% 3.10%
Ratio of net investment income to average
net assets, applicable to common stock 11.94% 13.20% 13.47% 12.25% 13.49%
Ratio of operating expenses to average
net assets** ......................... 1.81%+ 2.21%+ 2.28%+ 2.30%+ 2.13%+
Ratio of net investment income to
average net assets** 9.42% 9.51% 9.39% 8.64% 9.26%
Portfolio turnover rate ................ 176.04% 108.33% 80.71% 72.00% 117.20%
(a) Dollars in thousands.
** Ratios calculated on the basis of expenses and net investment income applicable to both the common and preferred shares
relative to the average net assets (total assets less accrued liabilities (excluding senior notes)) of both the common and
preferred shareholders.
+ Excluding interest expense, the ratio of operating expenses to average net assets, applicable to common stock and preferred
stock, is 1.13%, 1.30%, 1.29%, 1.32% and 1.50%, respectively.
# Calculation is based on average shares outstanding during the indicated period due to the per share effect of the Fund's
rights offerings.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
PROSPECT STREET HIGH INCOME PORTFOLIO INC.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INFORMATION REGARDING SENIOR SECURITIES
As of October 31,
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1997 1996 1995 1994 1993
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Total Amount Outstanding:
Notes $20,000,000 $20,000,000 $20,000,000 $20,000,000 $20,000,000
Preferred stock 20,000,000 20,000,000 20,000,000 20,000,000 20,000,000
Asset Coverage:
Per note (a) 1,080% 804% 667% 660% 597%
Per preferred stock share (b) 540% 402% 333% 330% 299%
Involuntary Liquidation Preference:
Per preferred stock share (c) $ 100,000 $ 100,000 $ 100,000 $ 100,000 $ 100,000
Approximate Market Value:
Per note $ 1,003.80 $ 990.00 $ 987.50 $ 937.10 $ 997.50
Per preferred stock share 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000 100,000
(a) Calculated by subtracting the Fund's total liabilities (not including senior securities) from the Fund's total
assets and dividing such amount by the principal amount of the debt outstanding.
(b) Calculated by subtracting the Fund's total liabilities (not including senior securities) from the Fund's total
assets and dividing such amount by the principal amount of the debt outstanding and aggregate liquidation
preference of the outstanding shares of Taxable Auction Rate Preferred Stock.
(c) Plus accumulated and unpaid dividends.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
PROSPECT STREET HIGH INCOME PORTFOLIO INC.
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
OCTOBER 31, 1997
(1) ORGANIZATION AND OPERATIONS
Prospect Street High Income Portfolio Inc. (the "Fund") was organized as a
corporation in the state of Maryland on May 13, 1988 and is registered with the
Securities and Exchange Commission as a diversified, closed-end, management
investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940. The Fund commenced
operations on December 5, 1988. The Fund's financial statements have been
prepared in conformity with generally accepted accounting principles, which
requires the management of the Fund to make estimates and assumptions that
affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, the disclosure of
contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and
the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting periods. Actual
results could differ from those estimates. The following is a summary of
significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund, which are in
conformity with those generally accepted in the investment company industry.
The Fund invests primarily in securities of fixed-maturity, corporate debt
securities and in redeemable preferred stocks that are rated less than
investment grade. Risk of loss upon default by the issuer is significantly
greater with respect to such securities compared to investment-grade securities
because these securities are generally unsecured and are often subordinated to
other creditors of the issuer, and because these issuers usually have high
levels of indebtedness and are more sensitive to adverse economic conditions,
such as a recession, than are investment-grade issuers. In some cases, the
collection of principal and timely receipt of interest is dependent upon the
issuer attaining improved operating results, selling assets or obtaining
additional financing.
See the schedule of investments for information on individual securities, as
well as industry diversification and credit quality ratings.
(2) SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
(a) VALUATION OF INVESTMENTS
Investments for which listed market quotations are readily available are
stated at market value, which is determined using the last reported sale price
or, if no sales are reported, as in the case of some securities traded
over-the-counter, the last reported bid price. Short-term investments having
remaining maturities of 60 days or less are stated at amortized cost, which
approximates market.
Other investments, primarily noninvestment-grade corporate debt securities for
which market quotations are not readily available due to a thinly traded market
with a limited number of market makers, are stated at fair value on the basis of
valuations furnished by an independent pricing service, subject to adjustment by
the investment adviser based upon quotations obtained from market makers. The
independent pricing service determines value based primarily on quotations from
dealers and brokers, market transactions, accessing data from quotation
services, offering sheets obtained from dealers and various relationships
between securities. The independent pricing service utilizes the last sales
price based on odd-lot trades, if available. If such price is not available, the
price furnished is based on round-lot or institutional size trades. These
procedures have been approved by the Board of Directors.
The fair value of restricted securities is determined by the investment
adviser following procedures approved by the Board of Directors.
(b) SECURITY TRANSACTIONS AND RELATED INVESTMENT INCOME
Realized gains and losses on investments sold are recorded on the
identified-cost basis. Interest income and accretion of discounts are recorded
on the accrual basis.
(c) FEDERAL INCOME TAXES
It is the Fund's policy to comply with the requirements of the Internal
Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies,
and to distribute substantially all of its investment company taxable income to
its stockholders each year. Accordingly, no federal income tax provision is
required.
The Fund has reclassified $262,889 from paid in capital to undistributed net
investment income and $6,927 from undistributed net investment income to
undistributed net realized loss from security transactions. These
reclassifications have no impact on the net asset value of the Fund and are
designed to present the Fund's capital accounts on a tax basis.
At October 31, 1997, the cost of investments in securities for federal income
tax purposes was $209,111,273. Aggregate gross unrealized gains on securities in
which there was an excess of market value over tax cost was $10,968,585.
Aggregate gross unrealized losses on securities in which there was an excess of
tax cost over market value was $7,851,857. The net unrealized gain on securities
held by the Fund was $3,116,728 for federal income tax purposes.
At October 31, 1997, the Fund had the following capital loss carryovers
available to offset future capital gains, if any, to the extent provided by
regulations:
CARRYOVER
AVAILABLE EXPIRATION DATE
$(37,564,886) October 31, 1998
(18,529,051) October 31, 1999
(808,396) October 31, 2002
(3,703,531) October 31, 2003
------------
$(60,605,864)
============
(D) COMMON STOCK AND TAXABLE AUCTION RATE PREFERRED STOCK (PREFERRED STOCK),
OFFERING AND DEFERRED DEBT ISSUANCE COSTS
The costs incurred by the Fund in connection with the initial sale of the
common and preferred stock as well as the common stock rights offerings have
been recorded as a reduction of the common stock proceeds. The costs incurred by
the Fund in connection with the issuance of the senior notes have been deferred
and are being amortized on a straight-line basis over a period of five years.
(E) CASH FLOW INFORMATION
The Fund invests primarily in corporate debt securities and distributes
dividends from net investment income, which are paid in cash or shares of common
stock of the Fund. These activities are reported in the accompanying statement
of changes in net assets, and additional information on cash receipts and cash
payments is presented in the accompanying statement of cash flows.
(3) INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT
Prospect Street Investment Management Co., Inc., the Fund's Investment
Adviser, earned $1,146,665 in management fees for the year ended October 31,
1997. Management fees paid by the Fund to the Investment Adviser were calculated
at .65% (on an annual basis) of the average weekly value of total assets of the
Fund less accrued liabilities (excluding the principal amount of the notes and
the liquidation preference of the preferred stock and including accrued and
unpaid dividends on the preferred stock) up to and including $175,000,000 of net
assets, .55% on the next $50,000,000 of net assets and .50% of the excess of net
assets over $225,000,000. At October 31, 1997, the fee payable to the Investment
Adviser was $169,638, which was included in accrued expenses in the accompanying
balance sheet. However, for a period of one year commencing on the expiration
date of the May 1996 rights offering, the Adviser waived its advisory fee with
respect to any increase in the Fund's net assets resulting from the exercise of
any rights pursuant to that Offering.
(4) DEBT
In July 1993, the Fund repurchased the remaining $5,000,000 (principal amount)
of its senior extendible notes (the Notes), which carried an annual interest
rate through November 30, 1993 of 10.28%. The Fund simultaneously issued
$20,000,000 of new Senior Notes (the Senior Notes) that will mature, if not
previously redeemed, on December 1, 1998. The Fund is required to maintain
certain asset coverages with respect to the Senior Notes, as defined in the Note
Purchase Agreement, and the Senior Notes are subject to mandatory redemption if
the Fund fails to maintain these asset coverages. The Senior Notes bear interest
at the rate of 6.53% per annum through November 30, 1998. Interest on the Senior
Notes is due every June 1 and December 1, commencing December 1, 1993.
The Senior Notes are redeemable, in whole or in part, by the Fund at certain
times and under certain circumstances, as defined in the Note Purchase
Agreement.
(5) REDEEMABLE PREFERRED STOCK
In July 1993, the Fund redeemed 100 of the 300 shares of preferred stock that
were issued concurrently with the issuance of the Senior Extendible Notes.
Dividends are cumulative at a rate that was established at the offering of the
preferred stock and which has and will continue to be reset every 30 days
thereafter by an auction. Dividend rates ranged from 5.30% to 5.65% of the
liquidation preference during the year ended October 31, 1997. The remaining 200
shares of preferred stock are redeemable, at the option of the Fund, at a
redemption price equal to $100,000 per share, plus accumulated and unpaid
dividends, on any dividend payment date. The preferred stock is also subject to
mandatory redemption at a redemption price equal to $100,250 per share, plus
accumulated and unpaid dividends, if the Fund is in default of its surety asset
coverage requirements with respect to the preferred stock (see Note 7). In
general, the holders of the preferred stock and the common stock vote together
as a single class, except that the holders of the preferred stock, as a separate
class, vote to elect two members of the Board of Directors, and separate class
votes are required on certain matters that affect the respective interests of
the preferred stock and common stock. The preferred stock has a liquidation
preference of $100,000 per share, plus accumulated and unpaid dividends. The
Fund is required to maintain certain asset coverages with respect to the
preferred stock, as defined in the Fund's Note Purchase Agreement and Surety
Bond Agreement.
(6) AUCTION AGENT
The Fund amended and extended the auction agent agreement with Bear Stearns &
Co. Inc. on October 26, 1993 (which was originally dated May 7, 1990) to provide
for an extension to December 4, 1998. The Fund incurred additional costs of
$135,000 related to extending this agreement. These costs are being amortized on
a straight-line basis over the remaining life of the extended agreement.
Amortization expense for the year ended October 31, 1997 was $26,999.
(7) SURETY BOND
The Fund has entered into an insurance agreement, dated as of December 1,
1988, with Financial Security Assurance, Inc. (FSA), pursuant to which FSA has
issued a surety bond. Under the terms of the surety bond, FSA has
unconditionally and irrevocably guaranteed dividend, redemption and liquidation
payments to preferred shareholders upon failure of the Fund to do so, and the
Fund is then obligated to reimburse FSA for any amounts paid under the surety
bond. The surety bond had an initial term of five years and was scheduled to
expire on December 5, 1993. On July 15, 1993, the Fund extended the terms of the
surety bond from December 5, 1993 to December 5, 1998. The Fund will pay an
annual premium of 0.40% on the maximum aggregate liquidation preference of the
preferred stock.
The Fund executed an amendment to the insurance agreement on April 11, 1990,
which provides that the Fund must redeem or repurchase all of the then
outstanding shares of preferred stock in the event that the dividend rate on the
preferred stock for the period next succeeding the auction in September 1998 is
the maximum applicable rate (as defined) payable on the Fund's preferred stock.
(8) PURCHASES AND SALES OF SECURITIES
For the year ended October 31, 1997, the aggregate cost of purchases and
proceeds from sales of investment securities other than U.S. Government
obligations and short-term investments aggregated $371,447,873 and $324,868,108,
respectively. There were no purchases or sales of U.S. Government obligations
during the year ended October 31, 1997.
(9) CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS
Certain officers of the Investment Adviser serve on the Board of Directors of
the Fund. They receive no compensation in this capacity.
Directors who are not officers or employees of the Investment Adviser receive
a fee of $10,000 per year plus $2,000 per Directors' meetings attended, together
with actual out-of-pocket expenses relating to attendance at such meetings and
$1,000 per telephone meeting. In addition, members of the Fund's audit
committee, which consists of certain of the Fund's noninterested Directors,
receive $1,000 per audit committee meeting attended, together with actual
out-of-pocket expenses relating to attendance at such meeting.
(10) DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
The Board of Directors of the Fund declared regular dividends on the common
stock of $.035 per share payable on November 29 and December 30, 1996, and
January 31, February 28, March 31, April 30, May 30, June 30, July 31, August
29, September 30 and October 31, 1997.
Distributions on common stock are declared based on annual projections of the
Fund's net investment income (defined as dividends and interest income, net of
Fund expenses, less distributions on the preferred stock). The Fund plans to pay
monthly distributions to common shareholders. Meanwhile, as a result of market
conditions or investment decisions, the amount of distributions may exceed net
investment income earned at certain times throughout the period. It is
anticipated that, on an annual basis, the amount of distributions to common
shareholders will not exceed net investment income (as defined) applicable to
common shareholders on a tax basis. All shareholders of the Fund are
automatically considered a participant in the Dividend Reinvestment Plan (the
"Plan") unless otherwise elected. Under the Plan, when the market price of
common stock shares is equal to or exceeds the net asset value on record date
for distribution, participants will receive all dividends and distributions in
full and fractional shares of the Fund at the most recently determined net asset
value but in no event less than 95% of market price. If on record date for
distributions the net asset value of the common stock exceeds its market price,
or if the Fund shall declare a dividend or capital gains distribution payable
only in cash, the dividend-paying agent will buy common stock in the open market
for the participants' accounts. Participants are not charged a service fee for
the Plan but are subject to a pro rata share of brokerage fees incurred with
respect to open market purchases of common stock.
(11) FAIR VALUE OF LONG-TERM DEBT
The fair value of the Fund's long-term debt is estimated based on the quoted
market prices for the same issues or on the current rates offered to the Fund
for debt of the same remaining securities. At October 31, 1997, the fair value
of the Senior Notes was $20,076,400.
(12) RIGHTS OFFERING
On February 28, 1997 the Fund commenced a rights offering whereby the Fund
issued to its shareholders of record, as of that date, non-transferable rights
entitling the holders thereof to subscribe for an aggregate of 12,918,092 shares
of the Fund's common stock. Each record date shareholder had the ability to
receive one right for each whole share of common stock held. The rights allowed
the rights holder to subscribe for shares of common stock at the right of one
share of common stock for every three rights held. The subscription period for
the rights offering expired on March 25, 1997 and the Fund issued 12,918,092
shares of common stock at $3.59 per share. Proceeds to the Fund amounted to
$44,208,450, net of soliciting fees and offering expenses of $2,167,500.
On November 21, 1997 the Fund filed a registration statement for a
transferable rights offering to shareholders. Such rights, if exercised, will
entitle the holders thereof to subscribe for an aggregate of 14,718,295 shares
of the Fund's common stock. The expected offering date is December 1997 with a
closing date near the end of January 1998.
<PAGE>
NO PERSON HAS BEEN AUTHORIZED TO GIVE ANY INFORMATION OR TO MAKE ANY
REPRESENTATIONS, OTHER THAN THOSE CONTAINED IN THIS PROSPECTUS, AND, IF GIVEN OR
MADE, SUCH INFORMATION OR REPRESENTATIONS MUST NOT BE RELIED UPON AS HAVING BEEN
AUTHORIZED BY THE FUND OR THE DEALER MANAGERS. NEITHER THE DELIVERY OF THIS
PROSPECTUS NOR ANY SALE MADE HEREUNDER SHALL, UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES, CREATE
ANY IMPLICATION THAT THERE HAS BEEN NO CHANGE IN THE AFFAIRS OF THE FUND SINCE
THE DATE HEREOF OR THAT THE INFORMATION CONTAINED HEREIN IS CORRECT AS OF ANY
TIME SUBSEQUENT TO ITS DATE. HOWEVER, IF ANY MATERIAL CHANGE OCCURS WHILE THIS
PROSPECTUS IS REQUIRED BY LAW TO BE DELIVERED, THIS PROSPECTUS WILL BE AMENDED
OR SUPPLEMENTED ACCORDINGLY. THIS PROSPECTUS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFER TO
SELL, OR A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY, ANY SECURITIES OTHER THAN THE
REGISTERED SECURITIES TO WHICH IT RELATES. THIS PROSPECTUS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE
AN OFFER TO SELL OR A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY IN ANY CIRCUMSTANCES IN
WHICH SUCH OFFER OR SOLICITATION IS UNLAWFUL.
----------------
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
----
Prospectus Summary .............................. 3
Fee Table ....................................... 13
Financial Highlights ............................ 14
Capitalization at October 31, 1997 .............. 15
Information Regarding Senior Securities ......... 15
Trading and Net Asset Value Information ......... 16
The Fund ........................................ 17
The Offer ....................................... 19
Use of Proceeds ................................. 28
Investment Policies and Limitations ............. 28
Risk Factors and Special Considerations ......... 40
Directors and Officers .......................... 46
The Investment Adviser .......................... 49
Portfolio Trading ............................... 51
Determination of Net Asset Value ................ 52
Share Repurchases; Conversion to Open-End
Status ........................................ 53
Dividends and Distributions; Dividend
Reinvestment Plan ............................. 54
Federal Taxation ................................ 56
Description of Capital Stock .................... 60
Surety Arrangement for Preferred Shares ......... 63
Description of Notes ............................ 67
Custodian, Transfer Agents, Dividend Disbursing
Agent, Paying Agents and Registrars ........... 72
Legal Opinions .................................. 72
Reports to Shareholders ......................... 72
Experts ......................................... 72
Further Information ............................. 73
Financial Statements ............................ F-1
[Graphic Omitted]
WALL (R)
PROSPECT STREET
14,742,608 SHARES OF COMMON STOCK
ISSUABLE UPON EXERCISE OF
RIGHTS TO SUBSCRIBE FOR
SUCH SHARES
PROSPECT STREET(R)
HIGH INCOME PORTFOLIO INC.
COMMON STOCK
----------------
PROSPECTUS
----------------
PAINEWEBBER INCORPORATED
TUCKER ANTHONY
INCORPORATED
----------------
DECEMBER 24, 1997
<PAGE>
PART C -- OTHER INFORMATION
ITEM 24. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND EXHIBITS
(1) FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(i) -- Schedule of Investments as of October 31, 1997
(ii) -- Balance Sheet as of October 31, 1997
(iii) -- Statement of Operations for the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1997
(iv) -- Statement of Cash Flows for the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1997
(v) -- Statement of Changes in Net Assets for the fiscal
years ended October 31, 1997 and 1996
(vi) -- Financial Highlights for each Share of Common Stock
Outstanding for the fiscal years ended October 31,
1993, 1994, 1995, 1996 and 1997
(vii) -- Notes to Financial Statements for the fiscal year
ended October 31, 1997
(viii) -- Report of Independent Accountants dated December
5, 1997
Statements, schedules and historical information other than these listed above
have been omitted since they are either not applicable, or not required or the
required information is shown in the financial statements or notes thereto.
(2) EXHIBITS
(a) -- Articles of Amendment and Restatement+
(b) -- Amended and Restated By-Laws of the Registrant+
(c) -- Not applicable
(d)(1) -- Specimen certificate of Common Stock*
(2) -- Specimen certificate of Taxable Auction Rate Preferred
Stock*
(3) -- Documents relating to Surety Bond issued by Financial
Security Assurance Inc. (See Exhibits (k)(5) and (k)(6)
below)
(4) -- Note Purchase Agreement dated as of July 15, 1993, as
amended and restated December 16, 1993, between the
Registrant and Pacific Mutual Life Insurance Company,
including Form of Promissory Note+
(5) -- Form of Subscription Certificate and Instructions##
(6) -- Form of Notice of Guaranteed Delivery##
(7) -- Form of DTC/Nominee Over-Subscription Exercise Form##
(8) -- Form of Subscription Agent Agreement between the
Registrant and State Street Bank and Trust Company##
(9) -- Information Agent Agreement between the Registrant and
Corporate Investor Communications, Inc.##
(e) -- Dividend Reinvestment Plan of the Registrant+
(f) -- Not applicable
(g) -- Advisory Agreement between Registrant and Prospect
Street Investment Management Co., Inc.+
(h) -- Form of Dealer Manager Agreement (including the form of
the Selling Group Agreement and Soliciting Dealer
Agreement)##
(i) -- Not applicable
(j) -- Custodian Agreement between the Registrant and State
Street Bank and Trust Company+
(k)(1) -- Registrar, Transfer Agency and Service Agreement
between the Registrant and State Street Bank and Trust
Company+
(2) -- Auction Agent Agreement dated as of May 7, 1990 between
the Registrant and Bankers Trust Company+
(3) -- Amendment, dated as of October 29, 1993, to a
Broker-Dealer Agreement dated as of May 7, 1990, among
the Registrant, Bankers Trust Company and Bear, Stearns
& Co., Inc.+
(4) -- Letter Agreement among Registrant, Bankers Trust
Company and The Depository Trust Company+
(5)(A) -- Insurance Agreement between the Registrant and
Financial Security Assurance Inc.+
(B) -- Amendment No. 1 to the Insurance Agreement between the
Registrant and Financial Security Assurance Inc.+
(6) -- Custody Agreement between Bankers Trust Company and
Financial Security Assurance Inc.+
(l)(1) -- Opinion and Consent of Rogers & Wells#
(2) -- Opinion and Consent of Piper & Marbury L.L.P.##
(m) -- Not applicable
(n) -- Consent of Arthur Andersen LLP##
(o) -- Not applicable
(p) -- Subscription Agreement dated as of November 21, 1988
from Prospect Street Investment Management Co., Inc.++
(q) -- Not applicable
(r) -- Financial Data Schedule##
- ----------
* Exhibits incorporated by reference to Pre-Effective Amendment No. 4 to the
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-2, File No. 33-21949.
# Filed herewith.
## Previously filed.
+ Incorporated by reference to the Registrant's Registration Statement on Form
N-2, File No. 333-2067.
++ Incorporated by reference to Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the
Registrant's Registration Statement on Form N-2, File No. 333-2067.
ITEM 25. MARKETING ARRANGEMENTS
See Exhibit (h) of Item 24(2) of this Registration Statement.
ITEM 26. OTHER EXPENSES OF ISSUANCE AND DISTRIBUTION
The following table sets forth the expenses to be incurred in connection
with the Offer described in this Registration Statement:
Registration fees ........................................ $ 18,955
National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. fees .... 6,000
New York Stock Exchange listing fee ...................... 52,500
Printing (other than stock certificates) ................. 65,000
Accounting fees and expenses ............................. 18,000
Legal fees and expenses .................................. 120,000
Dealer Managers' expense reimbursement ................... 100,000
Information Agent fees and expenses ...................... 36,000
Subscription Agent fees and expenses ..................... 30,000
Miscellaneous ............................................ 20,000
--------
Total ................................................ $466,455
========
ITEM 27. PERSONS CONTROLLED BY OR UNDER COMMON CONTROL WITH REGISTRANT
Registrant and the following corporations (as indicated) are under common
control of Richard E. Omohundro, Jr. ("Omohundro, Jr."), Joseph G. Cote
("Cote") and John A. Frabotta ("Frabotta") by virtue of their stock ownership
and positions with such corporations which are indicated below. None of the
corporations are subsidiaries of the Registrant.
1. Prospect Street Investment Management Co., Inc.
(a Massachusetts corporation) ("PSIM")
Business: Investment adviser registered under the Investment Advisers Act
of 1940. PSIM serves as investment adviser of the Registrant and
Prospect International High Income Portfolio N.V.
<PAGE>
CONTROL PERSONS POSITIONS
- --------------- ---------
Omohundro, Jr. 40% shareholder, Co-President, Chairman of the
Board, Chief Executive Officer, Treasurer and
Director
Cote 40% shareholder, Co-President and Director
Frabotta 20% shareholder, Vice President, Secretary and
Director
2. Prospect Street Mezzanine Management Co., Inc.
(a Massachusetts corporation)
Business: Investment Adviser to and general partner of Bridge Investors,
L.P., a private investment partnership.
CONTROL PERSONS POSITIONS
- --------------- ---------
Omohundro, Jr. 40% shareholder, Co-President, Chief Executive
Officer, Treasurer and Director
Cote 40% shareholder, Co-President and Director
Frabotta 20% shareholder, Vice President, Secretary and
Director
3. Prospect Street Senior Loan Management Co., Inc.
(a Massachusetts corporation)
Business: Investment Adviser to Prospect Street Senior Portfolio, L.P.,
("Senior Portfolio")
CONTROL PERSONS POSITIONS
- --------------- ---------
Omohundro, Jr. 37.5% shareholder, Co-President, Chief
Executive Officer, Treasurer and Director
Cote 37.5% shareholder, Co-President and Director
Frabotta 20% shareholder
4. Prospect Street Senior Loan Corp.
(a Massachusetts corporation)
Business: General Partner to Senior Portfolio
CONTROL PERSONS POSITIONS
- --------------- ---------
Omohundro, Jr. 37.5% shareholder, Co-President, Chief
Executive Officer, Treasurer and Director
Cote 37.5% shareholder, Co-President and Director
Frabotta 20% shareholder
5. COMO Securities, Inc.
(a Massachusetts corporation) ("COMO")
Business: COMO is a registered broker/dealer.
CONTROL PERSONS POSITIONS
- --------------- ---------
Omohundro, Jr. 30% shareholder, Co-President, Chief Executive
Officer, Treasurer and Director
Cote 30% shareholder, Co-President and Director
Frabotta 10% shareholder, Vice President, Secretary and
Director
6. Prospect Street Connecticut Capital Inc.
(a Massachusetts corporation)
Business: Investment Adviser to and general
partner of Prospect St. Financial
Developments L.P.
CONTROL PERSONS POSITIONS
- --------------- ---------
Omohundro, Jr. 27.55% shareholder, Co-President and Director
Cote 27.55% shareholder, Co-President and Director
Frabotta 13.27% shareholder, Vice-President, Secretary
and Director
<PAGE>
7. Prospect Street Discovery Fund Inc.
(a Massachusetts corporation)
Business: Investment Adviser to and general
partner of Prospect St. NYC Discovery Fund L.P.
CONTROL PERSONS POSITIONS
- --------------- ---------
Omohundro, Jr. 26.56% shareholder, Co-President and Director
Cote 26.56% shareholder, Co-President and Director
Frabotta 10.42% shareholder, Vice-President and Director
ITEM 28. NUMBER OF HOLDERS OF SECURITIES (AS OF OCTOBER 31, 1997)
TITLE OF CLASS NUMBER OF RECORD HOLDERS
- --------------- ------------------------
Preferred Shares 1
Common Stock 2,718
ITEM 29. INDEMNIFICATION
Reference is made to the Registrant's Articles of Amendment and
Restatement filed as Exhibit 2(a), the Registrant's Amended and Restated By-
laws filed as Exhibit 2(b), the Dealer Manager Agreement filed as Exhibit 2(h)
and the Advisory Agreement filed as Exhibit 2(g), which provide for
indemnification or contribution. The Registrant's officers, Directors and
agents also have the benefit of the Maryland General Corporation law
provisions regarding indemnification and insurance, including but not limited
to Section 2-418 and Section 2-405.2 thereof, subject also to the
indemnification permitted under Sections 17(h) and 17(i) of the 1940 Act and
the regulations and releases promulgated by the SEC thereunder.
Insofar as indemnification for liability arising under the Securities Act
of 1933, as amended (the "Act"), may be permitted to directors, officers and
controlling persons of the Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions, or
otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the
Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public
policy as expressed in the Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event
that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the
payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a director, officer
or controlling person of the registrant in the successful defense of any
action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such director, officer or
controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the
Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been
settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate
jurisdiction the question 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.
ITEM 30. BUSINESS AND OTHER CONNECTIONS OF INVESTMENT ADVISER
The description of the business of Prospect Street Investment Management
Co., Inc. is set forth under the caption "The Investment Adviser" in the
Prospectus forming part of this Registration Statement.
The information as to the Directors and officers of Prospect Street
Investment Management Co., Inc. set forth in Prospect Street Investment
Management Co., Inc.'s Form ADV filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on July 7, 1988 (File No. 801-32529) and as amended through the
date hereof is incorporated herein by reference.
ITEM 31. LOCATION OF ACCOUNTS AND RECORDS
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Registrant: Prospect Street High Income Portfolio Inc.
60 State Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02109
Investment Adviser: Prospect Street Investment Management Co., Inc.
60 State Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02109
Transfer Agent for Common Stock: State Street Bank and Trust Company
P.O. Box 8200
Boston, Massachusetts 02266
Transfer Agent for Preferred Shares: Bankers Trust Company
4 Albany Street
New York, New York 10006
Custodian: State Street Bank and Trust Company
Two Heritage Drive
North Quincy, Massachusetts 02171
</TABLE>
ITEM 32. MANAGEMENT SERVICES
Not applicable.
ITEM 33. UNDERTAKINGS
(a) Registrant undertakes to suspend the offering of its shares until it
amends its Prospectus if:
(1) subsequent to the effective date of this Registration Statement,
the net asset value per share declines more than 10% from its net asset
value per share as of the effective date of the Registration Statement; or
(2) the net asset value increases to an amount greater than its net
proceeds as stated in the Prospectus.
(b) Registrant hereby undertakes:
(1) that for purposes of determining any liability under the
Securities Act of 1933, the information omitted from the form of
prospectus filed as part of this Registration Statement in reliance upon
Rule 430A and contained in a form of prospectus filed by the Registrant
pursuant to Rule 497(h) under the Securities Act shall be deemed to be
part of this Registration Statement as of the time it was declared
effective.
(2) that for the purpose of determining any liability under the
Securities Act of 1933, each post-effective amendment that contains a form
of prospectus shall be deemed to be a new registration statement relating
to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such securities at
that time shall be deemed to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
(3) to file, during any period in which offers or sales are being
made, a post-effective amendment to this Registration Statement:
(i) to include any prospectus required by Section 10(a)(3) of
the Securities Act of 1933;
(ii) to reflect in the prospectus any facts or events after the
effective date of the Registration Statement (or the most
recent post-effective amendment thereof) which, individually
or in the aggregate, represent a fundamental change in the
information set forth in the Registration Statement; and
(iii) to include any material information with respect to the plan
of distribution not previously disclosed in the Registration
Statement or any material change to such information in the
Registration Statement.
(4) that for the purpose of determining any liability under the
Securities Act of 1933, each post-effective amendment shall be deemed to
be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered
therein, and the offering of such securities at that time shall be deemed
to be the initial bona fide offering thereof.
(5) to remove from registration by means of a post-effective amendment
any of the securities being registered which remain unsold at the
termination of the offering.
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended,
and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Registrant has duly
caused this Amendment to the Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf
by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of Boston,
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, on the 24th day of December, 1997.
PROSPECT STREET HIGH INCOME PORTFOLIO INC.
By /s/ Richard E. Omohundro, Jr.
----------------------------------------------
RICHARD E. OMOHUNDRO, JR.
President
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended,
this Amendment to the Registration Statement has been signed below by the
following persons in the capacities and on the date indicated.
SIGNATURE TITLE DATE
--------- ----- ----
Director and President
(Principal Executive
/s/ Richard E. Omohundro, Jr. Officer) December 24, 1997
- ------------------------------
RICHARD E. OMOHUNDRO, JR.
Director, Vice President
Treasurer (Principal
Financial and Accounting
/s/ John A. Frabotta Officer) December 24, 1997
- ------------------------------
JOHN A. FRABOTTA
* Director
- ------------------------------
JOHN S. ALBANESE
* Director
- ------------------------------
C. WILLIAM CAREY
* Director
- ------------------------------
JOSEPH G. COTE
* Director
- ------------------------------
HARLAN D. PLATT
* Director
- ------------------------------
CHRISTOPHER E. ROSHIER
*By /s/ John A. Frabotta
- ------------------------------------------------------
JOHN A. FRABOTTA
Attorney-in-fact
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit No. Description of Exhibit Page
- ----------- ---------------------- ----
(l)(1) Opinion of Consent Rogers & Wells
<PAGE>
Exhibit (l)(1)
[Letterhead of Rogers & Wells]
December 24, 1997
Prospect Street High Income Portfolio Inc.
60 State Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02109
Ladies and Gentlemen:
We have acted as special counsel for Prospect Street High Income Portfolio
Inc., a Maryland corporation (the "Fund"), in connection with the preparation
and filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act
of 1933, as amended, and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, of a
Registration Statement on Form N-2, including all amendments or supplements
thereto (File Nos. 333-40785 and 811-5557) (the "Registration Statement"),
relating to the Fund's issuance of transferable rights (the "Rights") to
subscribe for up to 14,742,608 shares of Common Stock of the Fund, par value
$0.01 per share (the "Shares").
In so acting, we have examined and relied upon originals or copies,
certified or otherwise identified to our satisfaction, of such corporate
records, documents, certificates and other instruments as in our judgment are
necessary or appropriate to enable us to render the opinions expressed below.
Based upon the foregoing, and on such examination of law as we have deemed
necessary, we are of the opinion that:
1. The Fund has been duly incorporated and is validly existing as a
corporation under the laws of the State of Maryland.
2. The issuance of the Rights and the sale of the Shares have been duly
authorized; when issued as contemplated in the Registration Statement, the
Rights will be legally issued; when issued and paid for upon exercise of the
Rights as contemplated in the Registration Statement, the Shares will be legally
issued, fully paid and nonassessable.
3. The conclusions of U.S. tax law expressed under the headings "The
Offer -- Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Offer" and "Federal Taxation" in
the Prospectus contained in the Registration Statement are true and correct in
all material respects.
As to certain matters governed by the laws of the State of Maryland, we
have relied on the opinion of Piper & Marbury, L.L.P. dated December 11, 1997.
We consent to the filing of this opinion with the Securities and Exchange
Commission as an Exhibit to the Registration Statement and to the reference to
this firm under the heading "Legal Matters" in the Prospectus included in such
Registration Statement. In giving this consent, we do not admit that we are
within the category of persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of the
Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the rules and regulations of the
Securities and Exchange Commission thereunder.
Very truly yours,
/s/ Rogers & Wells
