<PAGE>
AS FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION ON APRIL 22, 1999
REGISTRATION NO. 333- -
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- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
WASHINGTON D.C. 20549
------------------------------
FORM F-4
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933
------------------------------
VODAFONE GROUP PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in its Charter)
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<S> <C> <C>
ENGLAND AND WALES 4812 NONE
(State or Other Jurisdiction of (Primary Standard Industrial (I.R.S. Employer Identification No.)
Incorporation Classification Code Number)
or Organization)
</TABLE>
THE COURTYARD
2-4 LONDON ROAD
NEWBURY, BERKSHIRE RG14 1JX, ENGLAND
(011 44) 1635 33251
(Address and telephone number of Registrant's principal executive offices)
CT CORPORATION
1633 BROADWAY
NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10019
(212) 315-7920
(Name, address and telephone number of agent for service)
COPIES TO:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Benjamin F. Stephen R. Scott Margaret G. Gill Charles M. Nathan Nathaniel M. Cartmell III
Stapleton Vodafone Group Public AirTouch Communications, Fried, Frank, Harris, Pillsbury Madison & Sutro
Sullivan & Cromwell Limited Company Inc. Shriver & Jacobson LLP
125 Broad Street The Courtyard One California Street One New York Plaza 235 Montgomery Street
New York, NY 10004 2-4 London Road San Francisco, CA 94111 New York, NY 10004 San Francisco, CA 94104
(212) 558-4000 Newbury, Berkshire (415) 658-2000 (212) 859-8000 (415) 983-1000
RG14 1JX, England
(011 44) 1635 33251
</TABLE>
------------------------------
APPROXIMATE DATE OF COMMENCEMENT OF PROPOSED SALE TO THE PUBLIC: As promptly
as practicable after the effective date of this Registration Statement.
If this Form is filed to register additional securities for an offering
pursuant to Rule 462(b) under the Securities Act, check the following box and
list the Securities Act registration statement for the same offering. / /
If this Form is a post-effective amendment filed pursuant to Rule 462(d)
under the Securities Act, check the following box and list the Securities Act
registration statement number of the earlier effective registration statement
for the same offering. / /
------------------------------
CALCULATION OF REGISTRATION FEE
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROPOSED MAXIMUM PROPOSED MAXIMUM
TITLE OF EACH CLASS AMOUNT TO BE OFFERING AGGREGATE OFFERING AMOUNT OF
OF SECURITIES TO BE REGISTERED(1) REGISTERED (2) PRICE PER SHARE PRICE(3) REGISTRATION FEE
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Ordinary Shares, nominal value $0.10 each (4)..... 3,075,586,520 Not Applicable $49,651,499,891 $13,803,117
</TABLE>
(1) American Depositary Shares ("Vodafone ADSs") evidenced by American
Depositary Receipts issuable upon deposit of ordinary shares, nominal value
$0.10 each ("Vodafone Ordinary Shares"), of the Registrant will be
registered under a separate registration statement on Form F-6. Each
Vodafone ADS represents ten Vodafone Ordinary Shares.
(2) Based on (i)(a) 576,050,428 shares of Common Stock, par value $0.01 per
share ("AirTouch Common Shares"), of AirTouch Communications, Inc.
("AirTouch") outstanding on the record date for the special meeting of
AirTouch stockholders (excluding AirTouch Common Shares held by Vodafone,
AirTouch or any subsidiaries of Vodafone or AirTouch, which shares will not
be converted and exchanged in the merger of Apollo Merger Sub, Inc. with and
into AirTouch (the "Merger")), (b) 13,824,366 AirTouch Common Shares
issuable immediately prior to the effective time of the Merger upon the
mandatory conversion of all outstanding shares of 6% Class B Mandatorily
Convertible Preferred Stock, Series 1996 of AirTouch, (c) 15,201,361
AirTouch Common Shares issuable upon conversion of shares of 4.25% Class C
Convertible Preferred Stock, Series 1996 of AirTouch and (d) 10,041,149
AirTouch Common Shares issuable upon exercise of outstanding employee stock
options to purchase AirTouch Common Shares and other AirTouch employee
benefit plans and (ii) the exchange ratio of five (5) Vodafone Ordinary
Shares for each AirTouch Common Share.
(3) Pursuant to Rules 457(f)(1), 457(f)(3) and 457(c) under the Securities Act
and solely for the purpose of calculating the registration fee, the proposed
maximum aggregate offering price is equal to the market value of the
approximate number of AirTouch Common Shares to be cancelled in the Merger
less the cash to be paid by the Registrant in connection with the exchange
of AirTouch Common Shares for Vodafone Ordinary Shares and is based upon a
market value of $89.71875 per AirTouch Common Share, the average of the high
and low sale prices per AirTouch Common Share on the New York Stock Exchange
Composite Tape on April 20, 1999.
(4) In connection with the Merger, the ordinary shares, currently of nominal
value 5p each, of the Registrant will be redenominated into ordinary shares,
of nominal value $0.10 each, prior to the effective time of the Merger, if
the requisite approval of shareholders of the Registrant is obtained and the
redenomination otherwise becomes effective as contemplated by the merger
agreement relating to the Merger. If the redenomination does not become
effective, ordinary shares, of nominal value 5p each, will be issued.
------------------------------
THE REGISTRANT HEREBY AMENDS THIS REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON THE 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, AS AMENDED, OR UNTIL THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT
SHALL BECOME EFFECTIVE ON THE DATE THAT THE COMMISSION, ACTING PURSUANT TO SAID
SECTION 8(A), MAY DETERMINE.
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<PAGE>
[LOGO]
[LOGO]
PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS
---------------------------------------------------------
THE MERGER OF VODAFONE AND AIRTOUCH
VOTE NOW!
<PAGE>
[MAP SHOWING GLOBAL OPERATIONS OF VODAFONE AND AIRTOUCH]
<PAGE>
[LOGO]
Your board of directors has unanimously approved a merger with Vodafone
Group Public Limited Company. The combined company will be the world's largest
wireless telecommunications company.
This merger is an important step for Vodafone and AirTouch in achieving our
common goal of creating the world's premier mobile communications company. Our
companies already share a vision of wireless telecommunications as a major
platform for voice and data communications in the next century; we believe that
this transaction creates the ideal union of people and assets to realize that
vision.
In the merger, Vodafone AirTouch will issue 0.5 of a Vodafone AirTouch ADS
and pay $9.00 in cash to holders of AirTouch common stock for each share held
and will issue 0.403 of a Vodafone AirTouch ADS and pay $7.25 in cash to holders
of AirTouch Class B preferred stock for each share held. Each Vodafone AirTouch
ADS will represent 10 ordinary shares of Vodafone AirTouch and will be listed on
the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol "VOD." After the merger, AirTouch
stockholders are expected to hold slightly less than 50% of the equity of
Vodafone AirTouch.
Holders of AirTouch common stock and AirTouch Class B preferred stock voting
together must approve the merger. The directors of AirTouch unanimously
recommend that the stockholders of AirTouch vote "FOR" the merger.
This document provides you with detailed information about the proposed
merger. You are encouraged to read this entire document before you decide how
you wish to vote. YOU SHOULD ALSO CAREFULLY CONSIDER THE RISK FACTORS RELATING
TO THE MERGER DESCRIBED BEGINNING ON PAGE 20 OF THIS DOCUMENT. In addition, this
document incorporates important business and financial information that is not
included in this document. You may obtain this information without charge by
request from the appropriate company at the address listed on page 19. TO OBTAIN
TIMELY DELIVERY OF THE INFORMATION, PLEASE REQUEST DOCUMENTS BY MAY 14, 1999.
YOUR VOTE IS VERY IMPORTANT. To vote your shares, you may use the enclosed
proxy card, vote by telephone by calling (800) 650-3514 or attend the special
stockholder meeting. If your shares are held in "street name", i.e., in the name
of a broker, bank or other record holder, you must either direct the record
holder as to how to vote your shares or obtain a proxy from the record holder to
vote at the special meeting. The special meeting will be held on May 28, 1999,
at 8:00 a.m., Pacific time, at the Hiller Aviation Museum, 601 Skyway Road, San
Carlos, CA 94070. If you fail to vote, the effect will be a vote against the
merger.
I urge you to vote "FOR" the merger.
Very truly yours,
/s/ Sam Ginn
Sam Ginn
Chairman and
Chief Executive Officer
NEITHER THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION NOR ANY STATE SECURITIES
COMMISSION HAS APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED THE VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ORDINARY SHARES OR
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ADSS TO BE ISSUED IN THE MERGER, OR DETERMINED IF THIS PROXY
STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS IS TRUTHFUL OR COMPLETE. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY
IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE. THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN
OFFER TO SELL OR A SOLICITATION OF AN OFFER TO BUY ANY SECURITIES IN ANY
JURISDICTION WHERE AN OFFER OR SOLICITATION WOULD BE ILLEGAL.
This proxy statement/prospectus is dated April 22, 1999 and was first mailed to
AirTouch stockholders on April 26, 1999.
<PAGE>
AIRTOUCH COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
ONE CALIFORNIA STREET
SAN FRANCISCO, CA 94111
------------------------
NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF STOCKHOLDERS
TO BE HELD ON MAY 28, 1999
------------------------
A special meeting of the holders of common stock and Class B preferred stock
of AirTouch Communications, Inc., a Delaware corporation, will be held at 8:00
a.m., Pacific time, on May 28, 1999, at the Hiller Aviation Museum, 601 Skyway
Road, San Carlos, CA 94070. At the special meeting, the holders of AirTouch
common stock and AirTouch Class B preferred stock, voting as a single class,
will:
1. Consider and vote on a proposal to approve and adopt the Agreement and
Plan of Merger, dated as of January 15, 1999, among Vodafone Group Public
Limited Company, AirTouch and Apollo Merger Sub, Inc., a wholly owned
subsidiary of Vodafone, providing for the merger of Apollo Merger Sub,
Inc. with and into AirTouch. After the merger, AirTouch will be a
subsidiary of Vodafone.
2. Consider and vote on a proposal to approve and adopt the Amended and
Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of April 16, 1999,
between AirTouch and AirTouch Merger Sub, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary
of AirTouch, providing for an internal reorganization involving the
merger of AirTouch Merger Sub, Inc. with and into AirTouch prior to the
merger with Vodafone.
3. Address procedural matters that may properly come before the special
meeting or any adjournment or postponement of the special meeting.
These items of business are more fully described later in the document
attached to this notice.
The purpose of the AirTouch internal reorganization is to amend the rights
of holders of the AirTouch Class C, Class D and Class E preferred stock in order
for the Vodafone/AirTouch merger to be tax free to U.S. holders of AirTouch
common stock, except with respect to cash received in the merger.
In connection with the merger and the internal reorganization, appraisal
rights will be available to some AirTouch stockholders. Please see the section
entitled "APPRAISAL RIGHTS" beginning on page 87 of the accompanying proxy
statement/prospectus for a discussion of the availability of appraisal rights
and the procedures to be followed in asserting appraisal rights in connection
with the proposed transactions.
All stockholders of record of AirTouch on April 13, 1999 are entitled to
notice of the special meeting and any adjournment or postponement thereof. Only
holders of record of AirTouch common stock and AirTouch Class B preferred stock
at the close of business on April 13, 1999 will be entitled to vote at the
special meeting or any adjournment or postponement thereof.
BY ORDER OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
/s/ Margaret G. Gill
Margaret G. Gill
SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT LEGAL, EXTERNAL
AFFAIRS AND SECRETARY
San Francisco, California
April 22, 1999
<PAGE>
TRANSACTION DIAGRAM
THE FOLLOWING DIAGRAMS ILLUSTRATE IN GENERAL TERMS THE CURRENT STRUCTURES OF
VODAFONE AND AIRTOUCH AND THE POST-MERGER STRUCTURE OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH. FOR A
MORE COMPLETE DESCRIPTION OF THE STEPS INVOLVED IN CREATING THE POST-MERGER
STRUCTURE, SEE "THE MERGER AGREEMENT" STARTING ON PAGE 74 AND "THE INTERNAL
REORGANIZATION" STARTING ON PAGE 59.
CURRENT STRUCTURE
[LOGO]
POST-MERGER STRUCTURE
[LOGO]
i
<PAGE>
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE MERGER
Q. WHY ARE VODAFONE AND AIRTOUCH PROPOSING TO MERGE?
A. Vodafone and AirTouch believe that the merger of two of the world's leading
mobile telecommunications companies will create a more competitive, global
wireless telecommunications company than either Vodafone or AirTouch would
be on its own and will generate significant opportunities to deliver greater
value to shareholders.
Q. WHAT WILL AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS RECEIVE IN THE MERGER?
A. Holders of AirTouch common stock will receive 0.5 of a Vodafone AirTouch ADS
and $9.00 in cash for each share of AirTouch common stock held. Holders of
AirTouch Class B preferred stock will receive 0.403 of a Vodafone AirTouch
ADS and $7.25 in cash for each share of AirTouch Class B preferred stock
held.
Q. WHAT IS A VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ADS?
A. A Vodafone AirTouch ADS is an American depositary share which represents 10
Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares and which has been created to allow U.S.
shareholders to more easily hold and trade interests in Vodafone AirTouch on
U.S. markets after the merger. The Bank of New York will be the depositary
which will issue the Vodafone AirTouch ADSs and own the Vodafone AirTouch
ordinary shares represented by the ADSs. For a discussion of the differences
between owning Vodafone AirTouch ADSs and Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares,
see "DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH AMERICAN DEPOSITARY SHARES--General."
Q. IS THE MERGER TAXABLE?
A. The merger will be tax free to U.S. holders of AirTouch common stock,
including holders of preferred stock who convert their shares prior to the
merger, except with respect to cash received in the merger.
Q. WHEN IS THE MERGER EXPECTED TO BE COMPLETED?
A. Vodafone and AirTouch expect to complete the merger in June or July of 1999.
Because the merger is subject to governmental approvals, the companies
cannot predict the exact timing.
Q. SHOULD I SEND IN MY STOCK CERTIFICATES NOW?
A. No. After the companies complete the merger, Vodafone AirTouch will send
instructions to AirTouch stockholders whose shares were converted in the
merger. These instructions will explain how to exchange your AirTouch stock
certificates for Vodafone AirTouch ADSs and cash.
Q. HOW DO I VOTE?
A. After you have carefully read this proxy statement/prospectus, just mail your
signed proxy card in the enclosed postage-paid envelope to The Bank of New
York as soon as possible so that your shares may be represented and voted at
the AirTouch special meeting. You may also vote by telephone by calling
(800) 650-3514, or you may vote in person at the AirTouch special meeting.
If your shares are held in "street name", i.e., in the name of a broker,
bank or other record holder, you must either direct the record holder as to
how to vote your shares or obtain a proxy from the record holder to vote at
the special meeting.
Q. MAY I CHANGE MY VOTE?
A. Yes. You may withdraw your proxy or change your vote by delivering a
later-dated, signed written notice of revocation or proxy card to The Bank
of New York before the AirTouch special meeting or by voting in person at
the AirTouch special meeting. You may also withdraw your proxy or change
your vote by telephone as described in this proxy statement/prospectus.
Q. WHOM CAN I CALL WITH QUESTIONS?
A. If you have more questions about the merger, you should contact:
Georgeson & Company Inc.
Wall Street Plaza
New York, NY 10005
Banks and Brokers Call Collect: (212) 440-9800
All Others Call Toll-Free: (800) 223-2064
ii
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
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<S> <C>
TRANSACTION DIAGRAM........................................................................................ i
QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS ABOUT THE MERGER..................................................................... ii
SUMMARY.................................................................................................... 1
RISK FACTORS RELATING TO THE MERGER........................................................................ 20
THE SPECIAL MEETING........................................................................................ 22
Date, Time and Place of the Special Meeting.............................................................. 22
Matters to Be Considered at the Special Meeting.......................................................... 22
Record Date.............................................................................................. 22
How Shares Will Be Voted at the Special Meeting.......................................................... 22
How to Revoke a Proxy.................................................................................... 23
Required Vote; Quorum.................................................................................... 23
Appraisal Rights......................................................................................... 24
Solicitation of Proxies.................................................................................. 24
THE VODAFONE EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING................................................................. 25
Resolutions Proposed..................................................................................... 25
Resolutions Required for the Merger...................................................................... 27
Purpose of Resolutions 3, 4, 15, 18 and 19............................................................... 27
Effect of Failure to Approve Resolution 18............................................................... 28
THE MERGER................................................................................................. 29
Background of the Merger................................................................................. 29
Reasons for the Merger................................................................................... 32
Recommendation of the AirTouch Board; Additional Considerations of the AirTouch Board.................... 33
Additional Considerations of the Vodafone Board.......................................................... 35
Opinions of Financial Advisors........................................................................... 37
Plans for AirTouch After the Merger...................................................................... 50
Interests of Members of AirTouch Board and Management in the Merger...................................... 50
Accounting Treatment..................................................................................... 55
Source and Amount of Funds and Other Consideration....................................................... 55
Other Effects of the Merger.............................................................................. 56
Certain Litigation....................................................................................... 57
THE INTERNAL REORGANIZATION................................................................................ 59
REGULATORY MATTERS......................................................................................... 61
Federal Communications Commission........................................................................ 61
U.S. Antitrust........................................................................................... 61
Exon-Florio.............................................................................................. 62
State Regulatory Approvals............................................................................... 62
European Union........................................................................................... 62
United Kingdom........................................................................................... 63
Other Laws............................................................................................... 63
General.................................................................................................. 64
MATERIAL TAX CONSEQUENCES.................................................................................. 65
General.................................................................................................. 65
United States Federal Income Tax Consequences to U.S. Holders of AirTouch Common Stock and AirTouch Class
B Preferred Stock...................................................................................... 65
</TABLE>
iii
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PAGE
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United States Federal Income Tax Consequences to U.S. Holders of AirTouch Class C Preferred Stock........ 66
United States Federal Income Tax Consequences to U.S. Holders of Employee Stock Options.................. 67
United States Federal Income Tax Consequences to Dissenting Stockholders................................. 68
Tax Opinions and Private Letter Ruling................................................................... 68
United States Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Ownership of Vodafone AirTouch Ordinary Shares and
Vodafone AirTouch ADSs................................................................................. 68
Qualifications........................................................................................... 70
United Kingdom Tax Consequences of the Ownership of Vodafone AirTouch Ordinary Shares and Vodafone
AirTouch ADSs.......................................................................................... 71
THE MERGER AGREEMENT....................................................................................... 74
The Merger............................................................................................... 74
The Internal Reorganization.............................................................................. 74
Consideration to Be Received in the Merger............................................................... 74
Treatment of Preferred Stock............................................................................. 74
Exchange of AirTouch Common Stock........................................................................ 75
Representations and Warranties........................................................................... 76
Conduct of Business Pending the Merger; Other Actions.................................................... 77
Acquisition Proposals.................................................................................... 78
Stock Options and Other Employees Benefits............................................................... 79
Indemnification and Insurance............................................................................ 80
Directors and Management of Vodafone AirTouch Following the Merger....................................... 80
Bay Area Presence........................................................................................ 81
Conditions............................................................................................... 81
Termination and Effects of Termination................................................................... 84
Expenses................................................................................................. 86
Amendment; Waiver........................................................................................ 86
APPRAISAL RIGHTS........................................................................................... 87
EXCHANGE RATES............................................................................................. 91
MARKET PRICE AND DIVIDEND DATA............................................................................. 92
Market Prices............................................................................................ 92
Dividend Data............................................................................................ 93
DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE.................................................................................... 95
DESCRIPTION OF AIRTOUCH.................................................................................... 95
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS........................................................................................ 96
Vodafone................................................................................................. 96
AirTouch................................................................................................. 96
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH FOLLOWING THE MERGER..................................................................... 98
Financial Information.................................................................................... 98
Dividends................................................................................................ 98
DESCRIPTION OF APOLLO MERGER SUB........................................................................... 98
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION................................... 99
DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ORDINARY SHARES........................................................... 114
General.................................................................................................. 114
Redenomination........................................................................................... 114
</TABLE>
iv
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<TABLE>
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PAGE
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Dividends................................................................................................ 115
Voting Rights............................................................................................ 116
Liquidation Rights....................................................................................... 116
Preemptive Rights and New Issues of Shares............................................................... 116
Disclosure of Interests in Shares........................................................................ 117
Changes in Capital....................................................................................... 117
Transfer of Shares....................................................................................... 118
General Meetings and Notices............................................................................. 118
Liability of Directors and Officers...................................................................... 118
Registrar................................................................................................ 118
DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH AMERICAN DEPOSITARY SHARES................................................ 119
General.................................................................................................. 119
Share Dividends and Other Distributions.................................................................. 119
Deposit, Withdrawal and Cancellation..................................................................... 120
Voting Rights............................................................................................ 121
Fees and Expenses........................................................................................ 122
Payment of Taxes......................................................................................... 122
Reclassifications, Recapitalizations and Mergers......................................................... 122
Disclosure of Interests.................................................................................. 123
Amendment and Termination................................................................................ 123
Your Right to Receive the Shares Underlying Your ADSs.................................................... 124
Limitations on Obligations and Liability to ADS Holders.................................................. 124
Requirements for Depositary Actions...................................................................... 124
Pre-Release of ADSs...................................................................................... 125
COMPARISON OF RIGHTS OF AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AND VODAFONE AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS........................... 126
Voting Rights............................................................................................ 126
Action by Written Consent................................................................................ 128
Shareholder Proposals and Shareholder Nominations of Directors........................................... 129
Sources and Payment of Dividends......................................................................... 130
Rights of Purchase and Redemption........................................................................ 131
General Meetings of Shareholders......................................................................... 132
Special Meetings of Shareholders......................................................................... 132
Appraisal Rights......................................................................................... 134
Preemptive Rights........................................................................................ 135
Amendment of Governing Instruments....................................................................... 136
Preferred Stock and Preference Stock..................................................................... 137
Stock Class Rights....................................................................................... 139
Shareholders' Votes on Certain Transactions.............................................................. 140
Rights of Inspection..................................................................................... 141
Standard of Conduct for Directors........................................................................ 142
Classification of the Board of Directors................................................................. 142
Removal of Directors..................................................................................... 143
Vacancies on the Board of Directors...................................................................... 143
Liability of Directors and Officers...................................................................... 144
Indemnification of Directors and Officers................................................................ 144
Shareholders' Suits...................................................................................... 145
Certain Provisions Relating to Share Acquisitions........................................................ 146
Anti-Takeover Measures................................................................................... 147
</TABLE>
v
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PAGE
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Disclosure of Interests.................................................................................. 147
Limitation on Enforceability of Civil Liabilities Under U.S. Federal Securities Laws..................... 149
Proxy Statements and Reports............................................................................. 150
DIRECTORS AND MANAGEMENT OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH FOLLOWING THE MERGER......................................... 152
Directors and Executive Officers......................................................................... 152
Continuing Vodafone Directors............................................................................ 152
Directors Designated by AirTouch......................................................................... 153
Meetings of the Board of Directors; Committees of the Board.............................................. 154
Stock Ownership of Directors, Executive Officers and Five Percent Shareholders........................... 154
FEES AND EXPENSES.......................................................................................... 156
VALIDITY OF SECURITIES..................................................................................... 156
EXPERTS.................................................................................................... 156
U.K. LISTING PARTICULARS AND CIRCULAR...................................................................... 157
FUTURE STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS............................................................................... 157
Appendix A - Agreement and Plan of Merger among Vodafone, AirTouch and Apollo Merger Sub, Inc. ............ A-1
Appendix B - Opinion of Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated.................................................. B-1
Appendix C - Opinion of Goldman Sachs International........................................................ C-1
Appendix D - Amended and Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger between AirTouch and AirTouch Merger Sub,
Inc. .......................................................................................... D-1
Appendix E - Summary Listing Particulars................................................................... E-1
Appendix F - Delaware General Corporation Law Section 262.................................................. F-1
</TABLE>
vi
<PAGE>
a
SUMMARY
THIS SUMMARY HIGHLIGHTS SELECTED INFORMATION FROM THIS PROXY
STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS. IT DOES NOT CONTAIN ALL OF THE INFORMATION THAT IS
IMPORTANT TO YOU. YOU SHOULD READ CAREFULLY THE ENTIRE PROXY STATEMENT/
PROSPECTUS AND THE ADDITIONAL DOCUMENTS REFERRED TO IN THIS PROXY
STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS TO FULLY UNDERSTAND THE MERGER.
THE COMPANIES
VODAFONE GROUP PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY
The Courtyard
2-4 London Road
Newbury, Berkshire RG14 1JX
England
(011 44) 1635 33251
Vodafone is a leading international provider of mobile telecommunications
services. Vodafone owns interests in mobile operations in the United Kingdom and
12 other countries, as well as an interest in the Globalstar satellite system.
As of March 31, 1999, Vodafone had over 10.4 million customers based on its
ownership share of its telecommunications ventures. Vodafone was incorporated in
England in 1984.
AIRTOUCH COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
One California Street
San Francisco, CA 94111
(415) 658-2000
AirTouch is a leading international mobile telecommunications company with a
significant presence in the United States, Europe and Asia. As of March 31,
1999, AirTouch had over 18.8 million customers based on its ownership share of
the cellular, paging and personal communications service ventures in which it
has an interest.
THE MERGER (SEE PAGE 29)
In the merger, AirTouch will become a subsidiary of Vodafone. In addition,
Vodafone AirTouch will issue ordinary shares with an approximate value of $52.4
billion, based on the closing price of a Vodafone ADS on April 20, 1999, and
will pay approximately $5.5 billion in cash to AirTouch stockholders. Upon
completion of the merger, Vodafone will change its name to "Vodafone AirTouch
Public Limited Company."
RECOMMENDATION OF THE AIRTOUCH BOARD (SEE PAGE 33)
The AirTouch board has unanimously determined that the merger is in the best
interests of AirTouch and its stockholders and approved the merger, the merger
agreement and the agreement providing for the internal reorganization and
declared their advisability. Accordingly, the AirTouch board recommends that
AirTouch stockholders vote "FOR" approval and adoption of the merger agreement
and "FOR" approval and adoption of the agreement providing for the internal
reorganization.
OPINION OF FINANCIAL ADVISOR (SEE PAGE 37)
Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated delivered a written opinion to the
AirTouch board that, as of the date of the opinion, the merger consideration was
fair to AirTouch stockholders from a financial point of view. This opinion is
not a recommendation to any AirTouch stockholder as to how to vote. We have
attached this opinion to the proxy statement/prospectus as Appendix B. You
should read it carefully.
SOURCE AND AMOUNT OF FUNDS AND OTHER CONSIDERATION (SEE PAGE 55)
Vodafone expects to pay approximately $5.5 billion in cash to holders of
AirTouch common stock in the merger. This payment, as well as expenses related
to the merger, will be financed by a new $10.5 billion credit facility which
Vodafone and AirTouch entered into on April 16, 1999 and from generally
available funds of Vodafone and AirTouch.
1
<PAGE>
DIRECTORS AND MANAGEMENT OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH FOLLOWING THE MERGER (SEE PAGE
152)
At the time the merger becomes effective, the board of directors of Vodafone
AirTouch will consist of 14 directors, seven of whom Vodafone will designate and
seven of whom AirTouch will designate. The current chief executive of Vodafone,
Chris Gent, will be the chief executive of Vodafone AirTouch and the current
chairman and chief executive officer of AirTouch, Sam Ginn, will be the
non-executive chairman of Vodafone AirTouch.
INTERESTS OF MEMBERS OF THE AIRTOUCH BOARD AND MANAGEMENT (SEE PAGE 50)
When considering the AirTouch board's recommendation that you vote in favor
of approval and adoption of the merger agreement, you should be aware that the
directors and officers of AirTouch may have interests in the merger that are
different from, or in addition to, yours as an AirTouch stockholder.
RISK FACTORS (SEE PAGE 20)
In determining whether to vote to approve and adopt the merger agreement,
you should consider carefully the risk factors described in this document,
including the risks that:
- expected benefits from the Vodafone/ AirTouch combination may not be
realized,
- the European Commission or the FCC may delay the merger or impose
conditions which reduce the anticipated benefits of the merger, either of
which could adversely affect the stock price of Vodafone, AirTouch or
Vodafone AirTouch,
- the value of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs that AirTouch stockholders will
receive in the merger will fluctuate, and
- AirTouch will likely be removed from the S&P 500 index, which may
adversely affect the market price of a Vodafone AirTouch ADS.
CONDITIONS TO THE MERGER (SEE PAGE 81)
Vodafone and AirTouch will not complete the merger unless a number of
conditions are satisfied or waived by them. These include:
- approval by Vodafone and AirTouch shareholders,
- clearance under applicable European Union antitrust laws and approval of
the Federal Communications Commission and regulatory authorities of
various states and European countries, in each case without conditions
that would have a material adverse effect on Vodafone and AirTouch on a
combined basis,
- opinions of tax counsel to the effect that the merger will be tax free to
U.S. holders of AirTouch common stock for U.S. federal income tax
purposes, except with respect to cash received, and
- completion of the AirTouch internal reorganization.
TERMINATION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT
(SEE PAGE 84)
Either Vodafone or AirTouch may terminate the merger agreement if it is not
in material breach of the merger agreement and:
- Vodafone and AirTouch do not complete the merger by December 31, 1999, or
if an additional three month period is necessary to obtain regulatory
approval of the merger, by March 31, 2000; or
- the shareholders of Vodafone or AirTouch do not approve the merger at the
applicable shareholders' meeting; or
- a governmental authority permanently restrains, enjoins or otherwise
prohibits the merger.
Additionally, either Vodafone or AirTouch may terminate the merger agreement
if:
- the board of directors of the other company withdraws its recommendation
of the merger to its shareholders; or
2
<PAGE>
- the other company recommends another acquisition transaction proposed by a
third party; or
- the other company breaches any of its representations, warranties or
agreements under the merger agreement, and this breach results in the
failure of a condition to the merger to be met which cannot be or is not
cured prior to December 31, 1999.
TERMINATION PAYMENTS (SEE PAGE 85)
AirTouch will be required to pay Vodafone a termination payment of $1
billion and Vodafone will be required to pay AirTouch a termination payment of
$225 million if the merger agreement is terminated because:
- the board of directors of the non-terminating party withdraws its
recommendation of the merger to its shareholders; or
- the board of directors of the non-terminating party recommends another
acquisition transaction proposed by a third party; or
- the non-terminating party intentionally breaches a material
representation, warranty or agreement made in the merger agreement which
cannot be or is not cured prior to December 31, 1999.
If, however, the merger agreement is terminated because AirTouch's
stockholders fail to adopt the merger agreement and, at that time, there is an
offer from a third party to acquire AirTouch, AirTouch will be required to pay
Vodafone a termination payment of $225 million and if, within 12 months of
termination, AirTouch enters into an agreement in which a third party agrees to
acquire AirTouch or a third party completes an acquisition of AirTouch, to pay
an additional $775 million. Vodafone will be required to pay AirTouch a
termination payment of $225 million if the merger agreement is terminated
because Vodafone's shareholders fail to approve the merger.
APPRAISAL RIGHTS (SEE PAGE 87)
Under Delaware law, holders of AirTouch common stock have the right to
demand and to receive, instead of what Vodafone is offering in the merger, an
amount that the Delaware Court of Chancery decides is the fair value of such
shares of AirTouch common stock. This amount may be more or less than the value
of what these holders would otherwise receive in the merger.
Holders of AirTouch common stock wishing to exercise appraisal rights must
not vote in favor of adoption of the merger agreement and must take the steps
described in the section entitled "APPRAISAL RIGHTS" and set forth in full in
Appendix F.
In addition, holders of AirTouch Class D preferred stock and AirTouch Class
E preferred stock have the right to demand appraisal rights in connection with
the merger and the internal reorganization. Any holder of AirTouch Class D
preferred stock or AirTouch Class E preferred stock wishing to exercise
appraisal rights must take the steps described in the section entitled
"APPRAISAL RIGHTS" and set forth in full in Appendix F.
LISTING OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ADSS AND ORDINARY SHARES (SEE PAGE 92)
The Vodafone AirTouch ADSs you receive in the merger will be listed on the
NYSE and the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares underlying those ADSs will be
admitted to the Official List of the London Stock Exchange.
ACCOUNTING TREATMENT (SEE PAGE 55)
Vodafone will account for the merger as an acquisition under generally
accepted accounting principles in the United Kingdom and as a purchase for
purposes of generally accepted accounting principles in the United States.
U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES (SEE PAGE 65)
The merger will be tax free to U.S. holders of AirTouch common stock,
including holders of AirTouch preferred stock who convert their shares prior to
the merger, except with respect
3
<PAGE>
to cash received in the merger. The internal reorganization, however, may be
taxable to holders of AirTouch Class C preferred stock who do not convert their
shares into shares of AirTouch common stock prior to the internal
reorganization.
RECORD DATE FOR VOTING; VOTE REQUIRED OF AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS (SEE PAGE 22)
You can vote at the special meeting of AirTouch stockholders if you owned
AirTouch common stock or AirTouch Class B preferred stock on April 13, 1999.
To approve the merger agreement and the agreement providing for the internal
reorganization, holders of a majority of the AirTouch common stock and the
AirTouch Class B preferred stock voting together as one class must vote in favor
of doing so. Each share of AirTouch common stock outstanding on the record date
is entitled to one vote and each share of AirTouch Class B preferred stock is
entitled to four-fifths of one vote. There are no other classes of voting
securities of AirTouch presently outstanding. As of the record date, directors
and executive officers of AirTouch and their affiliates owned approximately
0.10% and 0.21% of the outstanding shares of AirTouch common stock and AirTouch
Class B preferred stock, respectively.
VOTE REQUIRED OF VODAFONE SHAREHOLDERS (SEE PAGE 25)
At the Vodafone shareholders' meeting Vodafone shareholders will vote:
- to approve the merger and to elect new directors to the board of Vodafone
AirTouch, each of which will require the approval of a majority of the
votes cast at the Vodafone shareholders' meeting, and
- to change Vodafone's name to "Vodafone AirTouch Public Limited Company,"
redenominate Vodafone's ordinary share capital from pounds sterling into
U.S. dollars, increase Vodafone's authorized capital, authorize the
directors of Vodafone to issue shares, and authorize amendments to
Vodafone's memorandum and articles of association, each of which will
require the approval of at least 75% of the votes cast at the Vodafone
shareholders' meeting.
Vodafone shareholders must approve all of these matters, except the
redenomination, in order for the merger to be completed.
COMPARISON OF RIGHTS OF HOLDERS OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ORDINARY SHARES WITH
HOLDERS OF AIRTOUCH COMMON STOCK (SEE PAGE 126)
As a result of the merger, holders of AirTouch common stock will receive
Vodafone AirTouch ADSs. Each Vodafone AirTouch ADS will represent ten ordinary
shares of Vodafone AirTouch. There are numerous differences between the rights
of a stockholder in AirTouch, a Delaware corporation, and the rights of a
shareholder in Vodafone AirTouch, an English company. For example,
- except in limited circumstances, holders of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary
shares will not be entitled to appraisal rights in mergers or any other
types of transactions;
- only holders representing 5% or more of the voting power of Vodafone
AirTouch will be able to make proposals at a shareholders meeting;
- persons acquiring 3% or more of the voting power of Vodafone AirTouch will
generally be required to make public disclosures and notifications with
respect to their ownership;
- amendments to the memorandum and articles of association of Vodafone
AirTouch will require the approval of at least 75% of the votes cast at a
shareholders meeting;
- Vodafone AirTouch generally will not be permitted the same freedom as
AirTouch has to adopt defensive measures in the event of a takeover bid;
and
- although holders of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares will be permitted to
initiate lawsuits on behalf of the company
4
<PAGE>
in limited circumstances, holders will not be able to initiate class
action lawsuits against Vodafone AirTouch.
You should also be aware that it may be difficult to effect service of
process to begin a lawsuit in a U.S. court against directors and officers of
Vodafone AirTouch who are not residents of the U.S.
COMPARISON OF RIGHTS OF HOLDERS OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ADSS WITH HOLDERS OF
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ORDINARY SHARES (SEE PAGE 128)
Your rights as a holder of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs will in some cases be
different from the rights of a holder of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares. For
example, if proposed amendments to Vodafone's articles of association are
adopted at the Vodafone shareholders' meeting, you, as an individual holder of
ADSs, will be entitled to attend, speak and vote at Vodafone AirTouch general
shareholder meetings if you hold your Vodafone AirTouch ADSs directly. If,
however, you hold Vodafone AirTouch ADSs through a brokerage account or
otherwise in "street name," you will not be entitled to attend or speak at a
meeting, but you will be able to vote your ADSs by instructing the depositary.
See page 126 for a more complete description of your voting rights after the
merger.
5
<PAGE>
COMPARATIVE MARKET PRICE DATA
The following table presents per share closing market prices as reported on
the NYSE for Vodafone ADSs and shares of AirTouch common stock and the closing
mid-market quotation for Vodafone ordinary shares as quoted in the Official List
of the London Stock Exchange on January 15, 1999, prior to any public
announcement of the signing of the merger agreement, and on April 20, 1999, the
latest practicable date prior to the printing of this document. The table also
presents implied equivalent per share values for shares of AirTouch common stock
by multiplying the price per Vodafone ADS by 0.5 and adding $9.00.
AirTouch stockholders are urged to obtain current market quotations for the
Vodafone ADSs, Vodafone ordinary shares and AirTouch common stock before making
a decision with respect to the merger.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH 0.5 OF A
VODAFONE ADS ORDINARY SHARE VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ADS
PRICE SHARE PRICE PRICE PLUS $9.00
------------- ----------- --------- -----------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
January 15, 1999................................... $ 176.00 L10.695 $ 83.375 $ 97.00
April 20, 1999..................................... $ 170.56 L10.660 $ 89.000 $ 94.28
</TABLE>
CURRENCIES AND EXCHANGE RATES
References in this document to "dollars," "$" or " CENTS" are to the
currency of the United States and references to "pounds sterling," "pounds,"
"L," "pence" or "p" are to the currency of the United Kingdom. There are 100
pence to each pound. Solely for your convenience, this document contains
translations of certain pounds sterling amounts into U.S. dollars at specified
rates. You should not take these translations as assurances that the pounds
sterling amounts currently represent U.S. dollar amounts or could be converted
into U.S. dollars at the rate indicated or at any other rate, at any time.
In this document, unless otherwise stated, pounds sterling have been
translated into U.S. dollars at a rate of $1.6995 per L1.00, the noon buying
rate in New York City for cable transfers in pounds sterling as certified for
customs purposes by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York on September 30, 1998.
On April 20, 1999, the latest practicable date for which exchange rate
information was available prior to the printing of this document, the noon
buying rate was $1.6135 per L1.00.
The period end, average and range of high and low U.S. dollar/pound sterling
exchange rates for the five years ended March 31, 1998 and the six months ended
September 30, 1998 are presented in the section entitled "EXCHANGE RATES"
beginning on page 91.
6
<PAGE>
COMPARATIVE PER SHARE DATA
The following tables present unaudited historical and pro forma per share
data that reflect the completion of the merger based upon the historical
financial statements of Vodafone and AirTouch. The pro forma data are not
indicative of the results of future operations or the actual results that would
have occurred had the merger been consummated at the beginning of the periods
presented. You should read the data presented below together with the historical
consolidated financial statements, including applicable notes, of Vodafone and
AirTouch incorporated by reference into this document, and the unaudited pro
forma consolidated financial information and notes appearing in this document.
The first and second columns on the left in the tables below present
historical per share amounts for Vodafone and AirTouch. AirTouch historical
figures are for the year ended December 31, 1997 and the six months ended
September 30, 1998. The year ended December 31, 1997 has been adjusted to
include the pro forma effects of the acquisition of NewVector, which held the
U.S. cellular business of MediaOne Group, Inc. and MediaOne's 25% interest in
PrimeCo Personal Communications, L.P. described in AirTouch's current report on
Form 8-K/A, filed with the SEC on April 23, 1998. The fifth column sets forth
pro forma equivalent data based on the number of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary
shares to be issued in the merger. Solely for your convenience, Vodafone
AirTouch pro forma and Vodafone AirTouch pro forma equivalent amounts in the
fourth and fifth columns have been translated into U.S. dollars at the noon
buying rate on September 30, 1998.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIX MONTHS ENDED AND AT SEPTEMBER 30, 1998
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PRO FORMA EQUIVALENT
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH PER SHARE OF AIRTOUCH
COMMON STOCK (VODAFONE
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH PRO FORMA PER AIRTOUCH PRO FORMA PER
HISTORICAL PER HISTORICAL PER VODAFONE AIRTOUCH
VODAFONE ORDINARY SHARE OF AIRTOUCH VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ORDINARY SHARE DATA
SHARE COMMON STOCK ORDINARY SHARE MULTIPLIED BY 5)
--------------------- ------------------- -------------------- -----------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
L $ L $ $
Amounts under U.K. GAAP
Earnings/(loss)................. 0.11 0.70 (0.06) (0.10) (0.52)
Dividends....................... 0.03 -- 0.02 0.03 0.13
Book value...................... 0.17 8.13 5.37 9.12 45.62
Amounts under U.S. GAAP
Earnings/(loss)
Basic......................... 0.09 0.57 (0.07) (0.11) (0.57)
Diluted....................... 0.09 0.55 (0.07) (0.11) (0.57)
Dividends....................... 0.03 -- 0.02 0.03 0.13
Book value...................... 0.53 14.20 5.72 9.72 48.59
</TABLE>
7
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 1998
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PRO FORMA EQUIVALENT
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH PER SHARE OF AIRTOUCH
AIRTOUCH COMMON STOCK (VODAFONE
VODAFONE HISTORICAL (AS PRO FORMA PER AIRTOUCH PRO FORMA
HISTORICAL PER ADJUSTED) PER SHARE PER VODAFONE AIRTOUCH
VODAFONE ORDINARY OF AIRTOUCH COMMON VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ORDINARY SHARE DATA
SHARE STOCK ORDINARY SHARE MULTIPLIED BY 5)
--------------------- ------------------- -------------------- -----------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
L $ L $ $
Amounts under U.K. GAAP
Earnings/(loss)................. 0.14 0.72 (0.20) (0.34) (1.72)
Dividends....................... 0.06 -- 0.03 0.05 0.23
Amounts under U.S. GAAP
Earnings/(loss)
Basic......................... 0.12 0.40 (0.20) (0.35) (1.74)
Diluted....................... 0.12 0.40 (0.20) (0.35) (1.74)
Dividends....................... 0.05 -- 0.03 0.04 0.22
</TABLE>
8
<PAGE>
SELECTED HISTORICAL FINANCIAL DATA
The following tables set forth selected historical financial data of
Vodafone and AirTouch for each of the last five fiscal years ended March 31 and
December 31, respectively, and selected unaudited historical financial data for
Vodafone for the six months ended September 30, 1997 and September 30, 1998. The
selected historical financial data of Vodafone and AirTouch has been derived
from, and should be read in conjunction with, Vodafone's and AirTouch's annual
audited consolidated financial statements, including the notes thereto, and
Vodafone's unaudited interim consolidated financial statements, which are
incorporated by reference into this document.
Vodafone reports in accordance with U.K. GAAP and AirTouch reports in
accordance with U.S. GAAP. The main differences between U.S. GAAP and U.K. GAAP
that are relevant to Vodafone's consolidated financial statements are presented
in Vodafone's Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended March 31, 1998,
which presents U.S. GAAP financial information for the years ended March 31,
1996, 1997 and 1998 and which is incorporated by reference into this document.
VODAFONE
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIX MONTHS ENDED AND AT
YEAR ENDED AND AT MARCH 31, SEPTEMBER 30,
---------------------------------------------------- -------------------------
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1997 1998
------- ------- ------- ------- ---------------- ------- ----------------
L L L L L $ L L $
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER ORDINARY SHARE AND ADS AMOUNTS)
INCOME STATEMENT DATA
U.K. GAAP
Group turnover............................... 850.5 1,152.6 1,402.2 1,749.0 2,470.8 4,199.1 1,164.0 1,562.9 2,656.1
Profit for the period........................ 245.0 237.4 309.8 363.8 418.8 711.8 191.1 333.2 566.3
Earnings per Vodafone ordinary share......... 0.08 0.08 0.10 0.12 0.14 0.24 0.06 0.11 0.19
Earnings per Vodafone ADS.................... 0.81 0.78 1.02 1.19 1.36 2.31 0.62 1.08 1.84
Cash dividends per Vodafone ordinary share... 0.03 0.03 0.04 0.05 0.06 0.10 0.03 0.03 0.05
Cash dividends per Vodafone ADS.............. 0.28 0.33 0.40 0.48 0.55 0.93 0.27 0.31 0.53
U.S. GAAP
Group turnover............................... 850.5 1,152.6 1,402.2 1,749.0 2,470.8 4,199.1 1,164.0 1,562.9 2,656.1
Profit for the period........................ 234.9 203.3 293.7 342.2 374.2 635.9 166.2 276.2 469.4
Earnings per Vodafone ordinary share......... 0.08 0.07 0.10 0.11 0.12 0.20 0.05 0.09 0.15
Diluted earnings per Vodafone ordinary
share...................................... 0.08 0.07 0.10 0.11 0.12 0.20 0.05 0.09 0.15
Earnings per Vodafone ADS.................... 0.78 0.67 0.96 1.12 1.22 2.07 0.54 0.90 1.53
BALANCE SHEET DATA
U.K. GAAP
Total assets................................. 1,053.9 1,409.5 1,763.4 2,421.8 2,502.3 4,252.7 2,530.7 2,937.5 4,992.3
Long-term debt............................... 1.9 140.0 140.0 522.9 643.2 1,093.1 504.8 720.6 1,224.7
U.S. GAAP
Total assets................................. 1,278.5 1,662.9 2,001.2 3,019.2 4,026.0 6,842.2 3,115.8 4,074.5 6,924.6
Long-term obligations........................ 1.9 140.0 140.0 522.9 652.0 1,108.1 513.4 728.3 1,237.7
OTHER DATA
Weighted average number of shares............ 3,020.7 3,043.8 3,052.3 3,060.4 3,073.0 -- 3,069.3 3,086.4 --
U.S. dollar equivalent dividends per Vodafone
ordinary share............................. $ 0.04 $ 0.05 $ 0.06 $ 0.08 $ 0.09
</TABLE>
9
<PAGE>
AIRTOUCH
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED AND AT DECEMBER 31,
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998
------- ----- ------- ------- -------
$ $ $ $ $
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
INCOME STATEMENT DATA
U.S. GAAP
Operating revenues............................................... 1,247 1,619 2,252 3,594 5,181
Operating income................................................. 73 113 281 706 946
Equity in net income of unconsolidated wireless systems.......... 110 152 133 200 393
Interest
Expense........................................................ (10) (13) (52) (90) (145)
Income......................................................... 55 35 14 18 23
Income from operations........................................... 98 132 199 448 725
Preferred dividends.............................................. -- -- 20 54 117
Net income applicable to common stockholders..................... 98 132 179 394 608
Per share data:
Income from operations:
Basic........................................................ 0.20 0.27 0.40 0.89 1.30
Diluted...................................................... 0.20 0.27 0.40 0.89 1.28
Net income applicable to common stockholders:
Basic........................................................ 0.20 0.27 0.36 0.78 1.09
Diluted...................................................... 0.20 0.27 0.36 0.78 1.07
BALANCE SHEET DATA
U.S. GAAP
Investments in unconsolidated wireless systems................... 1,698 3,076 1,992 2,068 3,491
Intangible assets, net........................................... 471 606 3,409 3,297 8,513
Total assets..................................................... 4,488 5,648 8,524 8,970 17,553
Long term debt, including current portion........................ 130 906 1,669 1,419 2,746
Total stockholders' equity....................................... 3,459 3,751 5,062 5,529 9,325
Working capital (deficit)........................................ 736 19 (120) (254) (220)
Capital expenditures and capital calls, excluding acquisitions... 443 665 903 1,023 1,398
</TABLE>
10
<PAGE>
PROPORTIONATE DATA OF VODAFONE
The following table is presented on a proportionate basis. Proportionate
presentation is not required by U.K. GAAP and is not intended to replace the
consolidated financial statements prepared in accordance with U.K. GAAP.
However, since significant entities in which Vodafone has an interest are not
consolidated, proportionate information is provided as supplemental data to
facilitate a more detailed understanding and assessment of consolidated
financial statements prepared in accordance with U.K. GAAP.
U.K. GAAP requires consolidation of entities controlled by Vodafone and the
equity method of accounting for entities in which Vodafone has significant
influence but not a controlling interest. Proportionate presentation is a pro
rata consolidation, which reflects Vodafone's share of turnover and expenses in
both its consolidated and unconsolidated entities. Proportionate results are
calculated by multiplying Vodafone's ownership interest in each entity by each
entity's results.
Proportionate information includes results from Vodafone's equity accounted
investments and investments held at cost. Vodafone does not have control over
the turnover, expenses or cash flows of these investments and is only entitled
to cash from dividends received from these entities. Vodafone does not own the
underlying assets of these investments.
Proportionate EBITDA before investment disposals in the table below
represents operating profit before exceptional reorganization costs plus
depreciation and amortization of subsidiary undertakings, associated
undertakings and investments, proportionate to equity stakes. Proportionate
EBITDA represents Vodafone's ownership interests in the respective entities'
EBITDA. As such, proportionate EBITDA does not represent EBITDA available to
Vodafone.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIX MONTHS
ENDED
YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, SEPTEMBER 30,
---------------------------------------------- --------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
1997 1998 1998
-------------------- ------------------------ --------------------------
<CAPTION>
L $ L $ L $
(IN MILLIONS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Proportionate turnover......................... 2,234 3,797 2,874 4,884 1,761 2,993
--------- --------- --------- ----- ----- ---------
--------- --------- --------- ----- ----- ---------
Proportionate EBITDA before investment
disposals.................................... 718 1,220 919 1,562 560 952
--------- --------- --------- ----- ----- ---------
--------- --------- --------- ----- ----- ---------
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AT MARCH 31,
-------------------- AT SEPTEMBER 30,
1997 1998 1998
--------- --------- -----------------
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Proportionate number of customers..................... 4,016 5,844 7,336
--------- --------- -----
--------- --------- -----
</TABLE>
11
<PAGE>
PROPORTIONATE DATA OF AIRTOUCH
The following table is presented on a proportionate basis. Proportionate
presentation is not permitted by U.S. GAAP and is not intended to replace the
consolidated operating results prepared and presented in accordance with U.S.
GAAP. However, since significant wireless systems in which AirTouch has an
interest are not consolidated, proportionate information is provided as
supplemental data to facilitate a more detailed understanding and assessment of
consolidated operating results prepared and presented in accordance with U.S.
GAAP.
U.S. GAAP requires consolidation of wireless systems controlled by AirTouch
and the equity method of accounting for wireless systems in which AirTouch has
significant influence but not a controlling interest. Proportionate presentation
is a pro rata consolidation, which reflects AirTouch's share of revenues and
expenses in both its consolidated and unconsolidated wireless systems.
Proportionate results are calculated by multiplying AirTouch's ownership
interest in each wireless system by each system's total operating results, and,
accordingly, should not be compared with U.S. GAAP consolidated results of any
company. Net income under either U.S. GAAP or proportionate presentation is the
same.
Proportionately reported amounts include results from AirTouch's equity
investees, which AirTouch does not control. AirTouch does not have control over
the revenues, expenses or cash flows of its equity investees that are reported
in proportionate results and is only entitled to cash from dividends received
from these entities. AirTouch does not own the underlying assets of its equity
investees.
Proportionate operating cash flow in the table below represents operating
income plus depreciation and amortization and is not the same as cash flow from
operating activities in AirTouch's consolidated statements of cash flows.
Proportionate operating cash flow represents AirTouch's ownership interests in
the respective entities' operating cash flows. As such, proportionate operating
cash flow does not represent cash available to AirTouch.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED AND AT DECEMBER 31,
------------------------------------------
1994 1995 1996 1997
--------- --------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$ $ $ $
<CAPTION>
(IN MILLIONS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Proportionate revenue...................................................... 1,799 2,679 3,925 4,907
Proportionate operating cash flow.......................................... 506 703 1,124 1,736
--------- --------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- --------- ---------
<CAPTION>
1998
---------
<S> <C>
$
<S> <C>
Proportionate revenue...................................................... 7,204
Proportionate operating cash flow.......................................... 2,698
---------
---------
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AT DECEMBER 31,
------------------------------------------
1994 1995 1996 1997
--------- --------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(IN THOUSANDS)
Proportionate number of customers.......................................... 3,595 5,533 8,032 10,724
--------- --------- --------- ---------
--------- --------- --------- ---------
<CAPTION>
1998
---------
<S> <C>
Proportionate number of customers.......................................... 17,576
---------
---------
</TABLE>
The above information includes PCS data relating to PrimeCo in which
AirTouch had a 25% interest at December 31, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997 and a 50%
interest as of December 31, 1998. Because PrimeCo does not own 100% of all its
markets, the AirTouch proportionate interest in PrimeCo's results is slightly
less than 50%.
12
<PAGE>
SIGNIFICANT FACTORS AFFECTING OPERATING RESULTS
Financial results reported in accordance with U.K. GAAP or U.S. GAAP include
the impact of unusual or infrequent events and factors which are not expected to
occur regularly in the future. Examples of these events and factors include
gains or losses on the sale of businesses, the costs of completing major
acquisitions, restructuring charges and other business transactions, as well as
other significant factors and trends. To understand the past performance and
future prospects of Vodafone and AirTouch, it may be helpful to review the items
described briefly below. The following discussion should be read in conjunction
with the "Selected Historical Financial Data" included in the previous pages and
with the "Management's Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and
Results of Operations" of Vodafone and AirTouch that are contained in the annual
reports and other information that Vodafone and AirTouch have each filed with
the SEC. See "--Where You Can Find More Information."
VODAFONE
ASSET DISPOSITIONS
Vodafone's earnings for the year ended March 31, 1997 included L25.9 million
of gains arising from the sale of a 50% interest in Orbitel Mobile
Communications (Holdings) Limited, the sale of 5% of Vodafone's investment in
Vodafone Network Pty Limited in order to comply with an agreement entered into
when its license was granted and the sale by Vodafone's associated undertaking,
Europolitan Holdings AB, of a 20% interest in Sonofon AB, a Danish mobile
operator.
Vodafone's earnings for the year ended March 31, 1998 included L24.9 million
of gains arising from the sale of a 35% interest in the Hong Kong cellular
network operator, Pacific Link, the sale of a 16% interest in the U.K. service
provider, Cellphones Direct (Holdings) Limited, and the sale of a part of
Vodafone's holding in Globalstar, reducing its interest from 6.1% to 5.2% on a
fully diluted basis.
Vodafone's earnings for the six months ended September 30, 1998 include a
gain of L62.8 million on the sale of a 2.2% interest in Globalstar on a fully
diluted basis.
ACQUISITIONS
In the year ended March 31, 1997, Vodafone acquired controlling interests in
the Greek cellular network operator, Panafon S.A., and its principal service
provider, Panavox S.A., bringing Vodafone's interest from 45% to 55%. The
consideration paid for this transaction was L66 million. In addition, during the
1997 fiscal year Vodafone acquired controlling interests in three U.K. service
providers for an aggregate consideration of L147 million.
In the year ended March 31, 1998, Vodafone acquired controlling interests in
C.V. Gemeenschapplijk Bezit Libertel, the holding partnership of Libertel B.V.,
the Dutch cellular network operator, and its principal service provider,
Libertel Verkoop en Services B.V. (formerly Liberfone B.V.), by increasing its
interest from 35% to 70% for a net cash consideration of L256 million and the
assumption of L120 million of long term debt. In December 1997, Vodafone
exercised an option to increase its shareholding in Societe Francaise du
Radiotelephone S.A. from 16.11% to 20% for an aggregate consideration of L134
million. Vodafone has accounted for Societe Francaise du Radiotelephone S.A. as
an associated company since that date.
13
<PAGE>
AIRTOUCH
ACQUISITIONS
In August 1996, AirTouch acquired the approximately 63% of Cellular
Communications' outstanding stock that it did not already own for approximately
$1.6 billion. The consideration consisted of $1.0 billion in AirTouch preferred
stock, $393 million in cash, AirTouch stock options valued at approximately $17
million, and the assumption of $217 million of zero coupon convertible
subordinated notes due 1999.
In January 1997, AirTouch began consolidating the results of operations of
Telecel Communicacoes Pessoias, S.A., its cellular system in Portugal, after
increasing its ownership from 38.9% to 50.9% in December 1996.
In April 1998, AirTouch completed the acquisition of the U.S. wireless
interests of MediaOne Group, Inc. AirTouch issued approximately 59.4 million
shares of common stock having a fair market value of approximately $2.9 billion
on the date of issuance and approximately $1.6 billion of dividend-bearing
preferred stock with a 5.143% coupon, assumed approximately $1.4 billion of debt
associated with the acquired wireless interests, and granted MediaOne
registration rights with respect to the common stock and preferred stock
described above.
14
<PAGE>
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL DATA
Vodafone and AirTouch are providing the following pro forma consolidated
financial information to give you a better picture of what the results of
operations and financial position of the combined businesses of Vodafone and
AirTouch might have looked like had the merger occurred on an earlier date. This
information is provided for illustrative purposes only and does not show what
the results of operations or financial position of Vodafone AirTouch would have
been if the merger had actually occurred on the dates assumed. This information
also does not indicate what Vodafone AirTouch's future operating results or
consolidated financial position will be.
Please see "VODAFONE AIRTOUCH UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL
INFORMATION" for a more detailed explanation of this analysis.
BASIS OF PREPARATION
The pro forma consolidated financial information has been prepared in
accordance with U.K. GAAP, which differs from U.S. GAAP. In the pro forma
consolidated financial information, AirTouch's financial position and results of
operations have been adjusted to U.K. GAAP and translated into pounds sterling,
as described in the notes to the pro forma consolidated financial information
contained herein. Pro forma effect has been given to the acquisition by AirTouch
on April 6, 1998 of NewVector, which held the U.S. cellular businesses of
MediaOne Group, Inc., and MediaOne's 25% interest in PrimeCo Personal
Communications, L.P., as described in more detail in AirTouch's current report
on Form 8-K/A filed on April 23, 1998 and incorporated by reference into this
document.
Vodafone AirTouch intends to account for the merger using the acquisition
method of accounting under U.K. GAAP and the purchase method under U.S. GAAP.
The pro forma consolidated financial information has been prepared on this
basis.
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT DATA
The unaudited pro forma consolidated income statement data assumes that the
merger took place on April 1, 1997, the first day of the earliest financial
period presented in the pro forma consolidated financial information.
The unaudited pro forma consolidated income statement data for the year
ended March 31, 1998 combines the historical consolidated income statement of
Vodafone for the year ended March 31, 1998 and the pro forma income statement of
AirTouch for the year ended December 31, 1997, as adjusted to U.K. GAAP, after
giving effect to the pro forma adjustments described in the notes to the
unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information.
The pro forma consolidated income statement data for the six months ended
September 30, 1998 combines the unaudited historical consolidated income
statements of Vodafone and AirTouch for that period, as adjusted to U.K. GAAP,
after giving effect to the pro forma adjustments described in the notes to the
unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information.
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET DATA
The unaudited pro forma consolidated balance sheet data has been prepared
assuming that the merger took place on September 30, 1998, and combines the
unaudited historical consolidated balance sheets of Vodafone and AirTouch at
that date, as adjusted to U.K. GAAP, after giving effect to the pro forma
adjustments described in the notes to the unaudited pro forma consolidated
financial information.
15
<PAGE>
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH UNAUDITED PRO FORMA
CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT DATA
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRO FORMA PRO FORMA
YEAR ENDED SIX MONTHS ENDED
MARCH 31, SEPTEMBER 30,
-------------------- --------------------
1998 1998 1998 1998
--------- --------- --------- ---------
L $ L $
(IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT PER ORDINARY SHARE
AND ADS AMOUNTS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
U.K. GAAP
Group turnover................................................................ 5,521 9,383 3,228 5,486
Total group operating profit/(loss)........................................... (289) (491) 140 238
Loss on ordinary activities before taxation................................... (678) (1,152) (10) (17)
Loss for the period........................................................... (1,242) (2,111) (377) (641)
Loss per Vodafone AirTouch ordinary share..................................... (0.20) (0.34) (0.06) (0.10)
U.S. GAAP
Loss for the period........................................................... (1,257) (2,136) (415) (705)
Loss per Vodafone AirTouch ordinary share
Basic....................................................................... (0.20) (0.35) (0.07) (0.11)
Diluted..................................................................... (0.20) (0.35) (0.07) (0.11)
Loss per Vodafone AirTouch ADS
Basic....................................................................... (2.04) (3.47) (0.67) (1.14)
Diluted..................................................................... (2.04) (3.47) (0.67) (1.14)
</TABLE>
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH UNAUDITED PRO FORMA
CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET DATA
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AT SEPTEMBER 30,
1998
--------------------
<S> <C> <C>
L $
<CAPTION>
(IN MILLIONS)
<S> <C> <C>
U.K. GAAP
Total assets............................................................................. 42,450 72,144
Net debt................................................................................. 6,107 10,379
Shareholders' interest................................................................... 33,078 56,216
U.S. GAAP
Shareholders' interest................................................................... 35,233 59,878
</TABLE>
16
<PAGE>
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS (SEE PAGE 96)
VODAFONE
For the six months ended March 31, 1999, Vodafone's operating revenues were
in line with management's expectations. Customer growth continued to be strong
and is expected to remain robust for the mobile telecommunications industry
generally. Increasing competition in some markets may cause Vodafone ventures in
such markets to experience a slightly lower rate of increase in the number of
customers than in 1998. Vodafone expects the revenues of Vodafone AirTouch to
continue to grow, notwithstanding the industry-wide trend towards decreasing
average revenue per customer. Vodafone also expects capital expenditures to rise
in accordance with increasing usage and number of customers. Vodafone currently
expects to publish its results for the year ended March 31, 1999 on June 8,
1999.
AIRTOUCH
On April 22, 1999, AirTouch released its unaudited operating results for the
quarter ended March 31, 1999. AirTouch acquired the U.S. cellular and PCS
businesses of MediaOne Group, Inc. on April 6, 1998. Accordingly, AirTouch's
results for the quarter ended March 31, 1998, set forth below, do not include
the results of those acquired businesses for the periods prior to the
acquisition and, therefore, its comparability to the results for the quarter
ended March 31, 1999 is limited. Selected results for these periods include:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
THREE MONTHS
ENDED MARCH 31,
--------------------
1998 1999
--------- ---------
$ $
(IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT
PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S> <C> <C>
U.S. GAAP
Operating revenues............................................................................ 958 1,426
Operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization expenses.......................... 580 885
Depreciation and amortization expenses........................................................ 144 275
--------- ---------
Operating income.............................................................................. 234 266
--------- ---------
Net income applicable to common stockholders.................................................. 153 257
Net income per share applicable to common stockholders:
Basic..................................................................................... $ 0.30 $ 0.45
Diluted................................................................................... $ 0.30 $ 0.43
</TABLE>
AirTouch's sale of certain investments accounted for approximately $0.08 of
net income per share in the first quarter of 1999.
17
<PAGE>
WHERE YOU CAN FIND MORE INFORMATION
Vodafone files annual and special reports and other information and AirTouch
files annual, quarterly and special reports, proxy statements and other
information with the Securities and Exchange Commission. You may read and copy
any reports, statements or other information on file at the SEC's public
reference room located at 450 Fifth Street, NW, Washington, D.C. 20549 or at one
of the SEC's other public reference rooms in New York, New York and Chicago,
Illinois. Please call the SEC at 1-800-SEC-0330 for further information on the
public reference rooms. The SEC filings are also available to the public from
commercial document retrieval services and, for the AirTouch filings and the
registration statement of which this document forms a part, at the Internet
world wide web site maintained by the SEC at WWW.SEC.GOV.
Vodafone has filed a registration statement on Form F-4 to register with the
SEC the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares evidenced by Vodafone AirTouch ADSs
which AirTouch stockholders will receive in the merger and a registration
statement on Form F-6 in respect of the Vodafone AirTouch ADSs. This proxy
statement/prospectus is a part of the registration statement on Form F-4 and
constitutes a prospectus of Vodafone, as well as being a proxy statement of
AirTouch for its special meeting.
The SEC permits Vodafone and AirTouch to "incorporate by reference"
information into this proxy statement/prospectus. This means that the companies
can disclose important information to you by referring you to another document
filed separately with the SEC. The information incorporated by reference is
deemed to be part of this proxy statement/prospectus, except for any information
superseded by information contained directly in this proxy statement/prospectus.
This proxy statement/prospectus incorporates by reference the documents set
forth below that have been previously filed with the SEC. These documents
contain important information about Vodafone and AirTouch and their respective
financial conditions.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
VODAFONE SEC FILINGS (FILE NO. 1-10086) PERIOD
- ----------------------------------------- -----------------------------------------
<S> <C>
Annual Report on Form 20-F Year ended March 31, 1998
Reports on Form 6-K Filed on January 19, 1999 and March 31,
1999
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AIRTOUCH SEC FILINGS (FILE NO. 1-12342) PERIOD
- ----------------------------------------- -----------------------------------------
<S> <C>
Annual Report on Form 10-K Year ended December 31, 1998
Current Reports on Form 8-K or 8-K/A Filed on April 23, 1998, January 19, 1999
and January 20, 1999
</TABLE>
Vodafone and AirTouch also incorporate by reference into this proxy
statement/prospectus additional documents that they may file with the SEC from
the date of this proxy statement/prospectus to the date of the AirTouch special
meeting. These include reports such as Annual Reports on Form 10-K and Form
20-F, Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q, Current Reports on Form 8-K, any Reports
on Form 6-K so designated, as well as proxy statements.
The Vodafone ADSs and AirTouch common stock are listed on the NYSE. The
Vodafone ordinary shares are admitted to the Official List of the London Stock
Exchange. The AirTouch common stock is also listed on the Pacific Exchange. You
may inspect any periodic reports, proxy statements and other information filed
with the SEC by Vodafone or AirTouch at the offices of the NYSE, 20 Broad
Street, New York, New York 10005, and, in the case of AirTouch, at the Pacific
Exchange.
After the merger, the Vodafone AirTouch ADSs will be listed on the NYSE, but
will not be listed on the Pacific Exchange. The Vodafone AirTouch ordinary
shares will be admitted to the Official List of the London Stock Exchange.
18
<PAGE>
If you are a Vodafone or AirTouch shareholder, you may have been sent some
of the documents incorporated by reference, but you can obtain any of them
through Vodafone, AirTouch, the SEC or, in the case of AirTouch documents, the
SEC's Internet world wide web site as described above. Documents incorporated by
reference are available without charge, excluding all exhibits unless an exhibit
has been specifically incorporated by reference into this proxy
statement/prospectus. Stockholders may obtain documents incorporated by
reference into this proxy statement/prospectus by requesting them in writing, by
telephone, by e-mail or web site from the appropriate company at the following
addresses:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Vodafone Group Public Limited Company AirTouch Communications, Inc.
The Courtyard One California Street
2-4 London Road San Francisco, CA 94111
Newbury Tel: (415) 658-2200
Berkshire RG14 1JX, England E-mail: [email protected]
Tel: (011 44) 1635 33251 Web site: www.airtouch.com
Web site: www.vodafone.co.uk Attn: Investor Relations
Attn: Financial Investors
</TABLE>
If you would like to request documents from Vodafone or AirTouch, please do
so by May 14, 1999 to receive them before the AirTouch special meeting.
YOU SHOULD RELY ONLY ON THE INFORMATION CONTAINED OR INCORPORATED BY
REFERENCE INTO THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS TO VOTE ON THE TRANSACTIONS. NO
ONE HAS BEEN AUTHORIZED TO PROVIDE YOU WITH INFORMATION THAT IS DIFFERENT FROM
WHAT IS CONTAINED IN, OR INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE INTO, THIS PROXY
STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS. THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS IS DATED APRIL 22, 1999.
YOU SHOULD NOT ASSUME THAT THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN, OR INCORPORATED BY
REFERENCE INTO, THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS IS ACCURATE AS OF ANY DATE OTHER
THAN THAT DATE, AND NEITHER THE MAILING OF THIS PROXY STATEMENT/PROSPECTUS TO
STOCKHOLDERS NOR THE ISSUANCE OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ORDINARY SHARES IN THE MERGER
SHALL CREATE ANY IMPLICATION TO THE CONTRARY.
19
<PAGE>
RISK FACTORS RELATING TO THE MERGER
EXPECTED BENEFITS FROM THE VODAFONE/AIRTOUCH COMBINATION MAY NOT BE REALIZED
Vodafone and AirTouch entered into the merger agreement with the expectation
that the merger would result in cost savings and revenue enhancements. There can
be no assurance that the combined company will realize these anticipated
benefits in full or at all. If the expected benefits are not realized, the price
of the Vodafone AirTouch ADSs could be adversely affected.
THE EUROPEAN COMMISSION OR THE FCC MAY DELAY THE MERGER OR IMPOSE CONDITIONS
WHICH REDUCE THE ANTICIPATED BENEFITS OF THE MERGER, EITHER OF WHICH COULD
ADVERSELY AFFECT THE STOCK PRICE OF VODAFONE, AIRTOUCH OR VODAFONE AIRTOUCH
Vodafone and AirTouch must obtain, as a condition to their obligation to
complete the merger, clearance under European Union competition laws and the
approval of the FCC without any restrictions or conditions that would have a
material adverse effect on Vodafone and AirTouch on a combined basis. There can
be no assurance that these consents and approvals will be obtained without
materially adverse restrictions or conditions. Depending on their nature and
extent, any restrictions, conditions or waivers may jeopardize or delay
completion of the merger or may lessen the anticipated benefits of the merger.
VALUE OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ADSS TO BE RECEIVED IN THE MERGER WILL FLUCTUATE
The number of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs that AirTouch stockholders will receive
in the merger for each share of AirTouch common stock is fixed at 0.5 and the
merger agreement does not contain a mechanism to adjust the exchange ratio in
the event that the market price of the Vodafone ADSs declines. Therefore,
because the market price of Vodafone ADSs will fluctuate, the value at the time
of the merger of the consideration to be received by AirTouch stockholders will
depend on the market price at that time. There can be no assurance as to the
fair market value at the time of the merger of the consideration to be received
by AirTouch stockholders. For historical and current market prices of the
Vodafone ordinary shares and ADSs, see "MARKET PRICE AND DIVIDEND DATA."
THE REMOVAL OF AIRTOUCH FROM THE S&P 500 INDEX COULD ADVERSELY AFFECT THE MARKET
PRICE FOR THE VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ADSS
AirTouch common stock is presently included in the S&P 500 index. Mutual
funds and other investment vehicles whose investment objective is to track the
performance of the S&P 500 index currently hold a substantial amount of AirTouch
common stock. These funds will be required to sell their AirTouch shares (or the
Vodafone Airtouch ADSs they receive in the merger) if, as is likely after the
merger, AirTouch is removed from the S&P 500. These sales could adversely affect
the market price for the Vodafone AirTouch ADSs.
FORWARD-LOOKING STATEMENTS REGARDING BUSINESS AND OPERATIONS OF THE COMBINED
COMPANY MAY PROVE INACCURATE
Vodafone and AirTouch have made forward-looking statements in this document
and in documents incorporated by reference into this document concerning future
performance, costs, revenues and growth of Vodafone, AirTouch and/or Vodafone
AirTouch, industry and customer growth, wireless penetration rates and
statements regarding operational efficiencies from and benefits of the merger
and estimated company earnings. These statements may generally, but not always,
be identified by the use of words such as "anticipates," "should," "expects" or
"believes." By their nature, forward-looking statements involve risk and
uncertainty because they relate to events and depend on circumstances that
20
<PAGE>
will occur in the future. Many factors could cause actual results and
developments to differ materially from those expressed or implied by these
forward-looking statements. These factors include:
- the risk that the combined company will not achieve anticipated cost
savings or revenue enhancements or that integration costs will exceed
expectations,
- changes in economic conditions in markets served by the operations of
Vodafone, AirTouch and/ or Vodafone AirTouch which would adversely affect
the level of demand for wireless services,
- greater than anticipated competitive activity requiring reduced pricing
and/or new product offerings or resulting in higher acquisition costs or
slower customer growth,
- greater than expected growth in customers and usage, requiring increased
investment in network capacity,
- the impact of new business opportunities requiring significant up-front
investments,
- the impact on capital spending from the deployment of new technologies,
and
- the possibility that technologies will not perform according to
expectations or that vendors' performance will not meet the requirements
of Vodafone, AirTouch and/or Vodafone AirTouch.
Additional factors which could cause actual results and developments of
Vodafone AirTouch to differ from those expressed or implied by the
forward-looking statements are included in "Item 1. Business--Risk Factors" of
AirTouch's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1998,
which is incorporated by reference into this proxy statement/prospectus.
21
<PAGE>
THE SPECIAL MEETING
DATE, TIME AND PLACE OF THE SPECIAL MEETING
The special meeting of AirTouch stockholders will be held at 8:00 a.m.,
Pacific time, on May 28, 1999, at the Hiller Aviation Museum, 601 Skyway Road,
San Carlos, CA 94070.
MATTERS TO BE CONSIDERED AT THE SPECIAL MEETING
At the special meeting, the holders of record of shares of AirTouch common
stock and shares of Class B preferred stock will:
- Consider and vote on a proposal to approve and adopt the Agreement and
Plan of Merger, dated as of January 15, 1999, among Vodafone, AirTouch and
Apollo Merger Sub, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Vodafone, providing
for the merger of Apollo Merger Sub, Inc. with and into AirTouch. After
the merger, AirTouch will be a subsidiary of Vodafone;
- Consider and vote on a proposal to approve and adopt the Amended and
Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of April 16, 1999, between
AirTouch and AirTouch Merger Sub, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of
AirTouch, providing for an internal reorganization involving the merger of
AirTouch Merger Sub, Inc. with and into AirTouch prior to the merger with
Vodafone; and
- Address procedural matters that may properly come before the special
meeting or any adjournment or postponement of the special meeting.
RECORD DATE
AirTouch has fixed the close of business on April 13, 1999 as the record
date for the determination of AirTouch stockholders entitled to notice of, and
to vote at, the special meeting.
- All AirTouch stockholders of record, including holders of AirTouch Class
C, Class D and Class E preferred stock, at the close of business on the
record date are entitled to notice of the AirTouch special meeting.
- Only holders of record of AirTouch common stock and AirTouch Class B
preferred stock at the close of business on the record date are entitled
to vote at the special meeting. As of the record date, there were
576,050,428 outstanding shares of AirTouch common stock held by
approximately 495,036 holders of record, and 17,151,819 outstanding shares
of AirTouch Class B preferred stock held by approximately 296 holders of
record.
HOW SHARES WILL BE VOTED AT THE SPECIAL MEETING
Proxies that are properly executed by holders of AirTouch common stock and
AirTouch Class B preferred stock, if received in time for the special meeting
and not subsequently revoked, will be voted at the special meeting in accordance
with the instructions given in the proxies. Proxies that are properly executed
but do not contain instructions with respect to the proposals for approval of
the merger and/or the internal reorganization will be voted "FOR" approval of
the transaction for which the proxy does not contain instructions.
Stockholders who hold their AirTouch stock in their own name may call (800)
650-3514 toll-free to authorize the board of directors of AirTouch to execute a
proxy to vote their shares. The enclosed proxy card contains the specific
instructions to be followed by AirTouch stockholders for telephone voting.
AirTouch stockholders whose shares are held in the name of a bank or broker
should follow the voting instructions provided by the bank or broker. The
availability of telephone voting will depend on the voting processes of the bank
or broker.
22
<PAGE>
AS NOTED IN "APPRAISAL RIGHTS," A HOLDER OF AIRTOUCH COMMON STOCK WHO VOTES
IN FAVOR OF THE MERGER OR THE INTERNAL REORGANIZATION WILL FORFEIT HIS OR HER
APPRAISAL RIGHTS UNDER DELAWARE LAW WITH RESPECT TO THESE TRANSACTIONS.
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS SHOULD NOT SEND STOCK CERTIFICATES WITH THE ENCLOSED
PROXY CARD. IF THE MERGER IS COMPLETED, VODAFONE AIRTOUCH WILL FURNISH AIRTOUCH
STOCKHOLDERS WITH INSTRUCTIONS FOR EXCHANGING THEIR SHARES OF AIRTOUCH COMMON
STOCK FOR VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ADSS AT THAT TIME.
HOW TO REVOKE A PROXY
If you are a stockholder holding AirTouch shares in your own name, you may
revoke a previously given proxy at any time prior to its exercise by:
- delivering, prior to the special meeting, to the The Bank of New York, a
written notice of revocation or a proxy having a later date or time than
the executed proxy; or
- voting by telephone after the date of a previously given proxy; or
- voting in person at the special meeting.
Attendance at the special meeting will not by itself constitute revocation
of the proxy granted by the proxy card. Stockholders must mail written notices
of revocation to:
The Bank of New York
P.O. Box 11466
New York, New York 10203-0466
Written notices of revocation must be received before stockholders vote at the
AirTouch special meeting. Any revocation by telephone must be done prior to the
time of the special meeting.
If you do not hold your AirTouch shares in your own name, you may revoke a
previously given proxy by following the revocation instructions provided by the
bank, broker or other party who is the registered owner of the shares.
REQUIRED VOTE; QUORUM
AirTouch stockholders will vote separately on proposals to approve and adopt
each of the merger agreement and the agreement providing for the internal
reorganization. The merger may only be completed if the internal reorganization
is completed. The affirmative vote of the holders of AirTouch common stock and
AirTouch Class B preferred stock representing a majority of the voting power of
the shares of AirTouch common stock and the shares of AirTouch Class B preferred
stock entitled to vote at the special meeting, voting as a single class, is
required to approve and adopt each of the merger agreement and the agreement
providing for the internal reorganization. Each share of AirTouch common stock
outstanding on the record date is entitled to one vote. Each share of AirTouch
Class B preferred stock outstanding on the record date is entitled to
four-fifths of one vote. There are no other classes of voting securities of
AirTouch presently outstanding.
As of the record date, directors and executive officers of AirTouch and
their affiliates owned approximately 0.10% and 0.21% of the outstanding shares
of AirTouch common stock and AirTouch Class B preferred stock, respectively. See
"DIRECTORS AND MANAGEMENT OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH FOLLOWING THE MERGER--Stock
Ownership of Directors, Executive Officers and Five Percent Stockholders."
Brokers and nominees are precluded from exercising their voting discretion
on the approval and adoption of the merger agreement and the agreement providing
for the internal reorganization and, for this reason, absent specific
instructions from the beneficial owner of shares of AirTouch common stock or
AirTouch Class B preferred stock, may not vote these shares. Shares that are not
voted because
23
<PAGE>
brokers did not receive instructions are referred to as "broker non-votes."
Holders of a majority in voting power of the AirTouch common stock and AirTouch
Class B preferred stock outstanding on the record date must be present in person
or by proxy at the special meeting to constitute a quorum. Abstentions and
broker non-votes are counted as present or represented for purposes of
determining a quorum for the special meeting. Because the affirmative vote of
the holders of a majority of the voting power of AirTouch common stock and
AirTouch Class B preferred stock, voting as a single class, is required for
approval and adoption of each of the merger agreement and the agreement
providing for the internal reorganization, AN ABSTENTION, UNRETURNED PROXY OR
BROKER NON-VOTE WILL BE TREATED AS A VOTE AGAINST APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE
MERGER AGREEMENT AND THE AGREEMENT PROVIDING FOR THE INTERNAL REORGANIZATION.
APPRAISAL RIGHTS
For a complete discussion of the appraisal rights under Delaware law of
holders of AirTouch common stock, AirTouch Class D preferred stock and AirTouch
Class E preferred stock in connection with the merger and the internal
reorganization, see the section entitled "APPRAISAL RIGHTS" beginning on page
87. Holders of AirTouch Class B and AirTouch Class C preferred stock are not
entitled to appraisal rights under Delaware law in connection with the merger or
the internal reorganization. However, holders of AirTouch Class B and AirTouch
Class C preferred stock who converted their shares into AirTouch common stock
prior to the record date for the special meeting are entitled to assert
appraisal rights with respect to that AirTouch common stock in connection with
the merger.
SOLICITATION OF PROXIES
AirTouch will bear the costs of the special meeting and of soliciting
proxies therefor. Vodafone and AirTouch will share equally the amount of the
filing fees and the other expenses incurred in connection with the cost of
filing, printing and distributing this proxy statement/prospectus. In addition
to solicitation by mail, the directors, officers and employees of AirTouch may
also solicit proxies from stockholders by telephone, facsimile, telegram or
other electronic means or in person. AirTouch will make arrangements with
brokerages and others custodians, nominees and fiduciaries to send the proxy
materials to beneficial owners, and AirTouch will reimburse those brokerage
houses and custodians for their reasonable expenses in doing so. Georgeson &
Company Inc. will assist in the solicitation of proxies by AirTouch for a fee
not to exceed $100,000 plus reasonable out-of-pocket expenses.
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THE VODAFONE EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING
In connection with the merger, the board of directors of Vodafone has
convened an extraordinary general meeting of the shareholders of Vodafone for
May 24, 1999.
RESOLUTIONS PROPOSED
At the meeting, Vodafone will propose the following resolutions:
- Resolutions 1 and 2--to appoint John Gildersleeve and Penelope Hughes as
directors. Mr. Gildersleeve and Mrs. Hughes joined the Vodafone board
since the last annual general meeting of Vodafone and they are therefore
required to resign and seek re-election to the board in accordance with
the requirements of the London Stock Exchange.
- Resolution 3--to approve the merger and also to provide for the following
matters which are required to give effect to the merger or to satisfy
conditions to the merger:
(1) if the redenomination contemplated by Resolution 18 does not take
effect, to increase the authorized share capital of Vodafone from
L200,000,000 to L408,000,000, by creating an additional 4,160,000,000
Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares of nominal value 5p each; and
(2) to approve the continued operation of the AirTouch employee share
plans by Vodafone AirTouch for at least one year after the merger as
required by the merger agreement.
- Resolution 4--if the redenomination contemplated by Resolution 18 does not
take effect, to authorize the Vodafone AirTouch board to allot ordinary
shares of 5p each with an aggregate nominal value of L153,750,000 to
AirTouch shareholders and to allot generally additional relevant
securities up to an aggregate nominal value of L99,274,601. Relevant
securities, as defined in the U.K. Companies Act, include Vodafone
AirTouch ordinary shares or securities convertible into Vodafone AirTouch
ordinary shares. The authority granted by this resolution will expire on
the earlier of Vodafone AirTouch's next annual general meeting in 2000 and
August 24, 2000.
- Resolution 5--to change the name of Vodafone to "Vodafone AirTouch Public
Limited Company."
- Resolutions 6 through 12--to elect as additional directors of Vodafone
AirTouch upon completion of the merger the following persons designated by
AirTouch: Samuel L. Ginn, Arun Sarin, Mohanbir S. Gyani, Michael J.
Boskin, Donald G. Fisher, Paul Hazen and Charles R. Schwab.
- Resolution 13--to increase the aggregate remuneration authorized to be
payable to non-executive directors of Vodafone AirTouch after the merger
to an amount not exceeding L1 million per year.
- Resolution 14--to make changes to Vodafone's articles of association to
give effect to terms of the merger agreement, including:
(1) providing that all special and extraordinary resolutions will be
taken on a poll and all ordinary resolutions will be conducted by
show of hands (unless a poll is demanded in accordance with the
memorandum and articles of association or the U.K. Companies Act);
(2) permitting multiple proxies to have the right to attend, speak and
vote on a poll or a show of hands at Vodafone AirTouch general
meetings;
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(3) providing that the chairman of the Vodafone AirTouch board shall not
have a casting vote;
(4) providing for the delivery of notices of meetings of the Vodafone
AirTouch board of directors to Vodafone AirTouch directors who are
not in the U.K. and permitting delivery of these notices by fax or
otherwise; and
(5) allowing multiple proxies themselves to appoint a substitute.
- Resolution 15--if the redenomination contemplated by Resolution 18 does
not take effect, to give the Vodafone AirTouch board the power to disapply
shareholders' preemption rights in respect of issues for cash of ordinary
shares with an aggregate nominal value of L15,111,934, being approximately
5% of the expected Vodafone AirTouch issued ordinary share capital upon
completion of the merger. This authority will expire on the earlier of the
date of Vodafone AirTouch's next annual general meeting in 2000 and August
24, 2000.
- Resolution 16--to approve the introduction of the new Vodafone AirTouch
share schemes.
- Resolution 17--to approve a change to the existing Vodafone Group long
term incentive plan.
- Resolution 18--
(1) to authorize transactions required to effect the redenomination of
the nominal value of each of the Vodafone ordinary shares from L into
$;
(2) to increase the authorized share capital of Vodafone by
(a) creating 50,000 "B" 7% cumulative fixed rate shares of L1 each
and 8,160,000,000 ordinary shares of U.S.$0.10 each,
(b) giving the board of directors of Vodafone the authority to allot
(i) 50,000 "B" 7% cumulative fixed rate shares of L1 each so
that, as required by English law, Vodafone will have issued
share capital of at least L50,000 following the
redenomination of the Vodafone ordinary shares,
(ii) redenominated shares with an aggregate nominal value of
approximately $309,950,798 to the existing Vodafone
shareholders and
(iii) redenominated shares with an aggregate nominal value of
approximately $307,500,000 to AirTouch common stockholders as
shares to be issued in the merger, and
(c) providing the Vodafone AirTouch directors with additional
authority to allot relevant securities up to an aggregate nominal
value of $198,549,202, being approximately 32% of the expected
Vodafone AirTouch issued ordinary share capital upon completion
of the merger.
This authority will expire on the earlier of the date of Vodafone
AirTouch's next annual general meeting in 2000 and August 24, 2000,
except the authority granted in (2)(b)(i) will terminate on March 31,
2000.
- Resolution 19--to give the Vodafone AirTouch board the power to disapply
shareholders' preemption rights in respect of issues for cash of ordinary
shares with an aggregate nominal value of $30,223,868, being approximately
5% of the expected Vodafone AirTouch issued ordinary share capital upon
completion of the merger. This authority will expire on the earlier of the
date of Vodafone AirTouch's next annual general meeting in 2000 and August
24, 2000 and will only take effect if Resolution 18 takes effect.
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- Resolutions 20 and 21--to approve the repurchase by Vodafone AirTouch of
up to 5% of its share capital at a price not exceeding 105% of the average
middle market closing price of these shares on the five trading days prior
to the date of purchase.
- Resolution 22--to amend the Vodafone articles of association so as to
adopt a "plain English" set of articles to be effective from the end of
the Vodafone shareholders' meeting.
- Resolution 23--to adopt a new set of "plain English" articles of
association upon completion of the merger so that all changes that are
required to give effect to (1) certain terms of the merger, and (2) if the
redenomination takes effect, the redenomination, are incorporated and
adopted therein.
At the Vodafone extraordinary general meeting, on a show of hands, every
shareholder of Vodafone who is present in person or, if a corporation, present
by proxy, shall have one vote and, on a poll, every shareholder of Vodafone who
is present in person or by proxy shall have one vote for each Vodafone ordinary
share held. Resolutions 4, 5, 14, 15 and 18 through 23 are special resolutions
and will require the approval of at least 75% of the votes cast by Vodafone
shareholders present in person, or if on a poll, in person or by proxy, at the
Vodafone shareholders' meeting. The other resolutions are ordinary resolutions
and will require the approval of at least 50% of the votes cast by Vodafone
shareholders present in person, or if on a poll, in person or by proxy, at the
Vodafone shareholders' meeting. The standard quorum requirement of two members
will apply.
RESOLUTIONS REQUIRED FOR THE MERGER
The Vodafone shareholders must approve Resolution 3 and, unless Resolution
18 is passed, Resolution 4 in order to complete the merger. The election of the
additional directors nominated by AirTouch in Resolutions 6 to 12 by the
necessary majorities and the approval of Resolutions 5, 13, and 14 are a
condition to AirTouch's obligation to consummate the merger, and the merger will
not become effective unless these Resolutions are approved by the necessary
votes or AirTouch waives the requirement for approval. Approval of the Vodafone
shareholders of Resolutions 15 through 23 is not required to complete the
merger. Resolutions 5 through 16, 20, 21 and 23 will not become effective unless
Resolutions 3 and 4 are passed.
The merger is not conditional upon Resolution 18 being passed and the
redenomination becoming effective. However, as the redenomination is being
proposed to facilitate the merger, the Vodafone board will not implement the
redenomination unless and until each of the conditions to the merger is likely
to be satisfied or waived.
PURPOSE OF RESOLUTIONS 3, 4, 15, 18 AND 19
- Resolutions 3, 4 and 18 provide for
- an increase in ordinary share capital and
- authority for the board to allot shares.
- Both Resolutions 15 and 19 provide for the disapplication of preemption
rights.
- These are provided for twice in each case, as the authorities must be in
either U.S. dollars or pounds sterling depending on whether or not the
redenomination has occurred.
- The increase in authorized share capital and the increase in the board
allotment authority will enable the board to allot Vodafone AirTouch
ordinary shares pursuant to the merger and maintain a sufficient level of
authority to allot additional Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares up to a
nominal amount of L99,274,601 or $198,549,202 until the earlier of the
date of Vodafone's next annual general meeting in 2000 and August 24,
2000.
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- Disapplying preemption rights will permit directors to allot up to
302,238,868 Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares for cash without being
required to offer them to existing shareholders.
- Except pursuant to the merger, the redenomination of the Vodafone ordinary
shares, the issue of up to 50,000 "B" 7% cumulative fixed rate shares of
L1 each, the issue of shares under Vodafone's scrip dividend scheme and
the exercise of options under Vodafone's option schemes, the directors of
Vodafone have no present intention to allot Vodafone AirTouch ordinary
shares, and after the merger no issue of shares which would result in a
change of control will take effect without the consent of Vodafone
AirTouch shareholders in a general meeting.
EFFECT OF FAILURE TO APPROVE RESOLUTION 18
If the Vodafone shareholders fail to approve Resolution 18 and the Vodafone
ordinary shares are not redenominated into U.S. dollars, there will be no direct
effect on AirTouch stockholders. There will be no material differences between
ordinary shares denominated in pounds sterling and ordinary shares denominated
in U.S. dollars. However, a stamp duty reserve tax liability of 1.5% of the
issue price of the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares issued to AirTouch
stockholders in the form of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs would arise and be jointly
payable by Vodafone and AirTouch when Vodafone AirTouch ADSs are issued. This
tax liability is estimated to be approximately L491 million ($792 million),
based on a price per share of 1,066p, the closing middle market quotation on the
London Stock Exchange on April 20, 1999, the last practicable date prior to the
printing of this document and the issue of 3,075,000,000 Vodafone AirTouch
ordinary shares to AirTouch common stockholders in connection with the merger.
This liability should not occur if
- the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares are denominated in U.S. dollars;
- the directors of Vodafone determine it is appropriate and, accordingly,
the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares being issued as consideration in the
merger are delivered in bearer form to the depositary; and
- there is no change in applicable law.
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THE MERGER
BACKGROUND OF THE MERGER
Both Vodafone and AirTouch are leading international providers of mobile
telecommunications services. Vodafone provides cellular service in the United
Kingdom and has interests in wireless companies operating in 12 other countries.
AirTouch operates cellular and PCS networks that reach most of the major markets
in the United States and has interests in wireless companies operating in 12
other countries. Vodafone and AirTouch have highly complementary operations and
together have interests in companies that provide service in 13 European
countries, including all major European markets. At the time of the execution of
the merger agreement, the companies owned interests in competing ventures only
in Germany.
As is common in the wireless telecommunications industry, AirTouch and,
outside the U.K., Vodafone conduct much of their business through partnerships
and other joint ventures. Internationally, AirTouch generally operates through
joint ventures and other consortia, including in Sweden and Egypt, where
Vodafone and AirTouch both have ownership interests in the same ventures.
Vodafone and AirTouch are also both limited partners in Globalstar, L.P., a
satellite communications venture. In the United States, AirTouch is a partner in
a number of partnerships, including with Bell Atlantic in PrimeCo Personal
Communications, L.P., a company providing PCS services in more than 30 major
cities, and in TOMCOM, L.P., a partnership formed to provide technical,
operating and marketing services for the partners' United States wireless
properties.
In light of the complementary nature of AirTouch's and Vodafone's European
properties, in late 1996 and on several occasions in 1997, executives of
Vodafone and AirTouch explored possible operational synergies. Alternatives
discussed included a joint venture, contractual roaming and purchasing
arrangements and a merger of the companies. The discussions were conceptual
only, and no subsequent steps were taken.
In September and early October of 1998, Chris Gent, chief executive of
Vodafone, Sam Ginn, chairman and chief executive officer of AirTouch, and other
executives of the companies met on several occasions. The parties discussed the
possible benefits and principal objectives of a potential merger as well as
issues regarding the then current valuation of AirTouch and how management of a
combined company would be organized. Those discussions, however, were
inconclusive on many important issues and did not result in the formation of a
combination proposal.
On October 14, 1998, the AirTouch board held its annual meeting to discuss
the company's strategic direction. The AirTouch board analyzed the United States
and international wireless environments and AirTouch's position as an
independent company as well as the strategic aspects of a potential merger with
Vodafone. The AirTouch board also discussed the strategic aspects of the
formation of a new wireless company with Bell Atlantic in response to an
indication by Bell Atlantic in September 1998 that it might make a proposal of
this kind to AirTouch in the near future. The AirTouch board reaffirmed
AirTouch's strategy as an independent company but determined that management
should be open to discussions with both interested companies to explore further
the potential benefits of both transactions.
On October 21, 1998, Messrs. Gent and Ginn had a telephone conversation to
discuss again several of the issues key to a potential merger but were unable to
resolve them and agreed to terminate their negotiations. There were no further
negotiations between executives or other employees of the two companies until
the week of January 4, 1999, although in the interim the two companies'
financial advisors had several discussions regarding the financial aspects of a
potential merger.
On November 13, 1998, Bell Atlantic presented its proposal to AirTouch
regarding the formation of a new wireless company. The proposal contemplated
that both Bell Atlantic and GTE, which
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companies have entered into a merger agreement, would contribute their wireless
assets to AirTouch and receive a controlling interest in the new company. During
November and December, senior management of AirTouch and Bell Atlantic engaged
in discussions regarding the Bell Atlantic proposal and, in late November,
AirTouch and Bell Atlantic also began to explore a possible merger of AirTouch
with Bell Atlantic in exchange for Bell Atlantic stock.
On December 31, 1998, media reports circulated to the effect that Bell
Atlantic and AirTouch were in merger discussions. Over the next two days, Mr.
Gent and Ken Hydon, financial director of Vodafone, and representatives of
Goldman Sachs International discussed the Bell Atlantic proposal described in
the media reports and the propriety and timing of informing AirTouch of
Vodafone's renewed interest in a transaction with AirTouch. On January 2, 1999,
Vodafone sent AirTouch a letter indicating its desire to make a merger proposal
but did not set forth the elements of its proposal. On January 3, 1999 the
AirTouch board had a special meeting to discuss the status of merger
negotiations and AirTouch's options. Although AirTouch has a long-standing
policy not to comment on market speculation, in light of Bell Atlantic's stated
intention to issue a press release and the extensive and detailed media coverage
of the AirTouch and Bell Atlantic discussions, on January 3, 1999 AirTouch and
Bell Atlantic issued a joint press release confirming that they were in merger
discussions. At or about that time, AirTouch's financial advisors requested
that, if Vodafone was interested in making a proposal, it make a specific
proposal promptly.
By letter dated January 4, 1999, Vodafone invited AirTouch to enter into
discussions for a merger in which AirTouch stockholders would receive five
Vodafone shares, equivalent to 0.5 of an ADS, and $6.00 in cash for each share
of AirTouch common stock. Vodafone structured the offer as a share exchange with
a cash element in order both to make the offer attractive to AirTouch in light
of competing proposals and, at the same time, fair to Vodafone as well as to
ensure tax-free treatment (to the extent possible) for AirTouch's U.S.
stockholders.
Vodafone's approach was rumored in the media, and on January 5, 1999, in
response to a request from the London Stock Exchange in light of the media
rumors, Vodafone issued a press release confirming that it had made a proposal
to AirTouch. On that same day, AirTouch issued its own press release stating
that it had received a merger proposal from Vodafone. Mr. Hydon, Mohan Gyani,
executive vice president and chief financial officer of AirTouch, and the
companies' financial advisors met on January 6 and January 7, 1999 to discuss
the financial terms of Vodafone's proposal and the potential cost savings and
revenue opportunities which might be achieved through a merger.
On January 7, 1999 and January 10, 1999, the AirTouch board held special
meetings to discuss AirTouch's strategic alternatives, the status of
negotiations with Bell Atlantic and Vodafone, the potential benefits and
disadvantages of each of the proposed transactions and the status of due
diligence and related legal and financial issues. At the meetings, the AirTouch
board received advice from Morgan Stanley regarding the financial aspects of
both proposals and from AirTouch's legal counsel regarding the relevant legal
considerations in evaluating AirTouch's options. At the January 7 meeting, the
AirTouch board was also briefed about a possible MCI WorldCom proposal as a
result of an exploratory call from that company's chairman, Bernard Ebbers, to
Mr. Ginn. However, later that week Mr. Ebbers informed Mr. Ginn that MCI
WorldCom would not be making an acquisition proposal.
Following the January 10, 1999 meeting of the AirTouch board, Vodafone and
AirTouch, advised by their respective financial advisors and lawyers, negotiated
the terms and conditions of the merger agreement. At the same time, AirTouch
continued its merger negotiations with Bell Atlantic. AirTouch informed both
Bell Atlantic and Vodafone that it intended to present both companies' final
proposals and the final forms of the respective merger agreements to the
AirTouch board at a special meeting on January 15.
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The financial terms of the merger being proposed by Bell Atlantic varied
during the period of negotiations between Bell Atlantic and AirTouch, although
each proposal after late November 1998 involved the exchange of Bell Atlantic
common stock for AirTouch common stock. During the week of January 10, Bell
Atlantic's proposal involved an exchange of each share of AirTouch common stock
for 1.54 shares of Bell Atlantic common stock, subject to an upward adjustment
in the exchange ratio commencing in nine months to reflect dividend payments on
Bell Atlantic common stock, and was conditioned on the transaction being
accounted for as a pooling of interests under U.S. GAAP. Bell Atlantic's
proposal also involved a "collar" pursuant to which the exchange ratio would be
adjusted to produce a price of $80.08 if the price of Bell Atlantic common stock
ranged from $48 to $52. If the average closing price of Bell Atlantic common
stock was below $48 during the specified period, the exchange ratio would be
1.6683; if the price was above $52, the exchange ratio would be 1.54. The
closing price per share of Bell Atlantic's common stock on the NYSE ranged from
$53 1/8 to $54 15/16 during the week of January 11.
On January 14, 1999, the Vodafone board met and considered, together with
its financial advisors, the progress of the negotiations with AirTouch of the
merger agreement and the results of Vodafone's due diligence with respect to
AirTouch. The Vodafone board confirmed its view of the strategic importance to
Vodafone's future of the proposed merger with AirTouch. The Vodafone board also
discussed the possibility of increasing the cash component and therefore the
value of its then current offer to AirTouch following indications received by
the executive management of Vodafone from AirTouch that an increase in the cash
consideration would substantially improve the competitiveness of Vodafone's
offer as compared to Bell Atlantic's offer. The Vodafone board then considered
an increase in the terms of Vodafone's offer from five Vodafone shares and $6.00
in cash for each share of common stock of AirTouch to five Vodafone shares and
$9.00 in cash. At the meeting, Goldman Sachs International rendered its oral
opinion to the Vodafone board, subsequently confirmed in writing, that the
increased merger consideration contemplated was fair from a financial point of
view to Vodafone. The Vodafone board then unanimously approved the merger
agreement and the offer of five Vodafone shares and up to $9.00 in cash for each
share of common stock of AirTouch in the hope of securing a successful
transaction with AirTouch.
On January 15, 1999, immediately prior to the AirTouch board meeting,
Vodafone increased its offer to five shares of Vodafone and $9.00 in cash for
each share of AirTouch common stock. Senior management of Bell Atlantic
indicated that it was prepared to raise its offer, but did not specify by what
amount and further indicated both that the exchange ratio would not reach 1.60
Bell Atlantic shares for each AirTouch share and also that no "collar" would be
provided to the stockholders of AirTouch.
At the AirTouch board meeting, AirTouch's executive management reviewed the
principal terms of the two offers and the results of AirTouch's due diligence of
the two companies. Morgan Stanley then presented its financial analysis of each
proposed transaction and AirTouch's legal counsel reviewed the two proposed
merger agreements as well as the standards of Delaware law applicable to the
board's decision. The AirTouch board, executive management, legal counsel and
Morgan Stanley engaged in a discussion of the two proposals. Morgan Stanley
delivered its oral opinion, which was later confirmed in a written opinion dated
as of January 15, 1999, that, as of that date and based upon and subject to the
matters stated in its opinion, the merger consideration offered by Vodafone was
fair from a financial point of view to the holders of AirTouch common stock. See
"--Opinions of Financial Advisors--Opinion of AirTouch's Financial Advisor" for
a description of the Morgan Stanley opinion. The AirTouch board concluded that
the Vodafone proposal was superior to the Bell Atlantic proposal and in the best
interests of AirTouch and its stockholders for the reasons set forth below under
"--Recommendation of the AirTouch Board; Additional Considerations of the
AirTouch Board." The AirTouch board voted unanimously to approve and declare
advisable the merger, the merger agreement
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and each of the transactions contemplated thereby, and to recommend that the
AirTouch stockholders approve and adopt the merger agreement and the agreement
providing for the internal reorganization.
After the January 15 meeting of the AirTouch board, the parties executed the
merger agreement. On January 15, 1999, Vodafone and AirTouch issued a joint
press release announcing the execution of the merger agreement.
REASONS FOR THE MERGER
Vodafone and AirTouch believe that the merger of two of the world's leading
mobile telecommunications companies will create a more competitive, global
wireless telecommunications company than either Vodafone or AirTouch would be on
its own and will generate significant opportunities to deliver greater value to
shareholders.
- SHARED STRATEGIC VISION. The global market for mobile telecommunications
is undergoing rapid growth as consumers have endorsed the benefits of mobile
telephony, enhanced by increasingly lightweight, secure and attractive
equipment. Both Vodafone and AirTouch believe that mobile telecommunications
will continue to be one of the fastest growing segments of the
telecommunications industry as, over time, mobile voice telephony will replace
large amounts of telecommunications traffic currently carried by fixed line
networks and will serve as a major platform for voice and data communications.
The companies expect that the combined entity will be in a better position to
take advantage of the opportunities presented by the rapidly growing mobile
telecommunications industry and data services market. Vodafone and AirTouch
believe that mobile penetration rates in most developed countries will reach 50%
by the year 2003 and will reach 55% in the United States and 65% in most
developed European countries by 2005.
- SCALE, OPERATIONAL STRENGTH AND COMPLEMENTARY ASSETS.
- The combination of Vodafone and AirTouch will create the world's largest
mobile telecommunications company, with a significant presence in the
United Kingdom, the United States, continental Europe and the Asia Pacific
region.
- The scale and scope of the operations in which the merged enterprise will
have an interest are expected to place it in an advantageous position to
capitalize on the anticipated growth of the industry, to provide greater
global telecommunications coverage and to become the "operator of choice"
for international companies, business travelers and travel-minded
consumers.
- Because of the complementary nature of Vodafone's and AirTouch's assets,
the merged entity will have interests in operations in all of Europe's
major markets, making it a more attractive partner for other international
fixed and mobile telecommunications providers as well as a more desirable
customer for hardware and software suppliers.
- The combined group's operational strength and scale are expected to
enhance its ability to develop existing networks, to be at the forefront
of the provision of technologically advanced products and services,
particularly the development of third generation mobile telephony, and to
make strategic acquisitions.
- SYNERGIES. Vodafone and AirTouch believe that substantial cost savings
are likely to accrue as a result of the combination of the two companies. The
companies estimate that the merger will result in after-tax net cash flow
savings of approximately $340 million per year by the year ending March 31,
2002. The net present value of these estimated savings is approximately $3.6
billion, based on a 9% discount rate. The cost savings are expected to arise
from global purchasing and operating efficiencies, including volume discounts on
worldwide purchases of cellular handsets, infrastructure and other assets, lower
leased line costs, a more efficient contiguous European voice and data network
and savings in the development and purchase of third generation mobile handsets,
infrastructure and software. In
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addition, Vodafone and AirTouch believe that the combined entity will be able to
achieve certain revenue enhancements through more extensive international
coverage and through the bundling of services for corporate customers that
operate on a multinational basis, business travelers and travel-minded
consumers.
RECOMMENDATION OF THE AIRTOUCH BOARD; ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS OF THE AIRTOUCH
BOARD
At its meeting on January 15, 1999, the board of directors of AirTouch, by
unanimous vote, determined that the merger was in the best interests of AirTouch
and AirTouch stockholders, approved and declared advisable the merger and
related transactions and recommended that the stockholders of AirTouch approve
and adopt the merger agreement and the agreement governing the internal
reorganization.
In the course of reaching its determinations, the AirTouch board consulted
with AirTouch's management, as well as its financial and legal advisors. The
AirTouch board considered the following factors:
- The reasons described under "--Reasons for the Merger;"
- The oral opinion, later confirmed in writing, delivered by Morgan Stanley
that, as of the date of the opinion, the consideration offered by Vodafone
in the merger was fair to the AirTouch stockholders from a financial point
of view;
- The board's determination that the consideration offered by Vodafone was
superior to the consideration that AirTouch stockholders would receive
under the Bell Atlantic proposal, based on the analyses and presentations
prepared by Morgan Stanley, including analyses of the then current market
price, historical trading prices, market prices on a fully distributed
basis, i.e., the anticipated trading prices of Vodafone and Bell Atlantic
securities upon completion of the merger and after the initial post-merger
period of redistribution of these securities in the market, and prospects
of each of AirTouch, Vodafone and Bell Atlantic. In reaching this
determination, the board considered in particular:
-- that the Bell Atlantic proposal had a current market value of
approximately $83 per share of AirTouch common stock, based on the
$53.8125 closing price of Bell Atlantic common stock on January 14,
1999, and contained a collar that would maintain a current market
value of $80.08 per share if the price of Bell Atlantic common stock
during a specified period prior to closing was between $52 and $48;
-- that the Vodafone proposal had a current market value of $97 per
share of AirTouch common stock based on the closing price of Vodafone
ordinary shares on January 15, 1999 of L10.685 ($17.65);
-- that following the merger, the market value of the Vodafone ADSs to
be received by AirTouch stockholders under the Vodafone proposal
might decrease; however, so long as Vodafone ADSs trade above $148,
the market value of the Vodafone proposal would exceed the market
value of Bell Atlantic proposal assuming the price of Bell Atlantic
common stock remained constant; and
-- that following a merger with Bell Atlantic, the market value of the
Bell Atlantic common stock to be received under the Bell Atlantic
proposal might decrease, particularly in light of the advice provided
to the board by AirTouch's management and financial advisor that the
proposed Bell Atlantic transaction would be dilutive by more than 10%
to Bell Atlantic's earnings per share through 2002;
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- The expectation that the AirTouch stockholders will hold slightly less
than 50% of the total issued share capital of the combined company;
- The fact that, in light of the substantial holdings of the AirTouch
stockholders in the share capital of the combined company, half of the
board of directors of the combined company will include designees from the
AirTouch board and that key members of senior management of AirTouch were
expected to play a significant role in the management of the combined
company;
- The board's determination that the Vodafone transaction would involve less
regulatory uncertainty, would otherwise be likely to close more quickly
and would provide greater operational flexibility to AirTouch pending
closing than would the Bell Atlantic proposal;
- The fact that the merger can be consummated, except with respect to cash
received, as a tax-free reorganization under the U.S. tax code and, unlike
the Bell Atlantic proposal, is not conditioned on obtaining any specific
accounting treatment, such as pooling of interests accounting under U.S.
GAAP or merger accounting under U.K. GAAP;
- The board's view that it was unlikely that AirTouch would receive any
other proposals given that, in addition to the Vodafone proposal and the
Bell Atlantic proposal, MCI WorldCom made and later withdrew a preliminary
indication of interest in making a proposal to AirTouch, that these
developments were reported publicly, and that AirTouch had not received
any other proposal or indication of interest; and
- That the merger agreement grants AirTouch the right, with respect to any
proposal subsequently made to AirTouch that the AirTouch board determines
in good faith to be superior to the merger, to provide information, engage
in negotiations and change its recommendation to stockholders.
The AirTouch board also considered the following potentially negative
factors:
- The board's determination that a combination with Vodafone, unlike a
combination with Bell Atlantic, would not address the major U.S. strategic
issue facing AirTouch of creating a national footprint in the U.S.,
although the board determined that the combined company should be able to
achieve a U.S. national footprint or its equivalent through other means;
- The board's consideration that Bell Atlantic is a larger, more diversified
company than Vodafone, that Vodafone shares are selling at a higher price
to earnings ratio than the shares of companies in its peer group in the
U.S. and that the Vodafone share price has been more volatile than the
Bell Atlantic share price, resulting in the board's view that a
combination with Vodafone may be subject to greater market price risk than
would a combination with Bell Atlantic;
- An analysis prepared by Morgan Stanley which reflected that, on a relative
contribution basis, AirTouch's contribution to various earnings
measurements ranged from 57.8% to 68.4%, compared to the pro forma
ownership of Vodafone AirTouch by AirTouch stockholders implied by the
effective exchange ratio of 53%;
- The board's consideration that AirTouch might have had to repurchase
AirTouch shares to facilitate the tax planning for the merger;
- The board's consideration that Vodafone, and possibly AirTouch, will incur
significant additional indebtedness to finance the cash portion of the
merger consideration;
- The board's consideration that Vodafone's and AirTouch's non-controlling
positions in certain key markets may limit the combined company's ability
to achieve all of the potential synergies;
34
<PAGE>
- The board's consideration that the combined company would not be
incorporated in the United States;
- The board's consideration that the principal trading market for Vodafone
ordinary shares is, and will continue to be after the merger, the London
Stock Exchange, although the board also noted that the Vodafone AirTouch
ADSs will be listed on the NYSE and will provide a more accessible trading
vehicle than Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares for U.S. shareholders; and
- The board's recognition that the termination payment provisions of the
merger agreement could discourage alternative proposals being made to
AirTouch thereafter, although the board determined that it was unlikely
that AirTouch would receive alternative proposals in any event, and that
these provisions are customary for transactions of this type, provide for
amounts within the range that is customary for transactions of this size,
and were necessary to induce Vodafone to enter into the merger agreement.
The discussion above of the factors considered by the board of directors of
AirTouch is not intended to be exhaustive but includes the material factors
considered by the AirTouch board. In view of the wide variety of factors
considered by the AirTouch board in connection with its evaluation of the merger
and the complexity of these matters, the AirTouch board did not consider it
practical, and did not attempt, to quantify, rank or otherwise assign relative
weights to the specific factors it considered in reaching its decision. The
AirTouch board conducted a discussion of the factors described above, including
asking questions of AirTouch's management and AirTouch's legal and financial
advisors, and reached unanimous consensus that the merger was in the best
interests of AirTouch and the AirTouch stockholders. In considering the factors
described above, individual members of the AirTouch board may have given
different weight to different factors. The AirTouch board relied on the
experience and expertise of its financial advisor for quantitative analysis of
the financial terms of the merger. See "--Opinions of Financial
Advisors--Opinion of AirTouch's Financial Advisor."
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF AIRTOUCH HAS UNANIMOUSLY APPROVED THE MERGER
AGREEMENT, THE MERGER AND EACH OF THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED THEREBY AND
DECLARED THEIR ADVISABILITY. ACCORDINGLY, THE AIRTOUCH BOARD RECOMMENDS THAT
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS VOTE "FOR" APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE MERGER AGREEMENT
AND "FOR" APPROVAL AND ADOPTION OF THE AGREEMENT PROVIDING FOR THE INTERNAL
REORGANIZATION.
ADDITIONAL CONSIDERATIONS OF THE VODAFONE BOARD
At its meeting on January 14, 1999, the board of directors of Vodafone
unanimously approved the offer of five Vodafone shares and up to $9.00 in cash
for each common share of AirTouch and the merger agreement and the transactions
contemplated thereby.
In the course of reaching its conclusions on the merger, the Vodafone board
consulted with Vodafone's management as well as its financial, legal and
accounting advisors and considered the following factors:
- The reasons described under "--Reasons for the Merger;"
- The oral opinion, later confirmed in writing, delivered by Goldman Sachs
International, that, as of the date of the opinion, the consideration to
be paid by Vodafone to AirTouch stockholders is fair to Vodafone from a
financial point of view;
- The fact that the chief executive and the financial director of Vodafone
were expected to be the chief executive and the financial director,
respectively, of the combined company and that other executive directors
on the Vodafone board were expected to serve as chief executive officers
of significant regions of the combined company's operations;
35
<PAGE>
- The fact that the current chairman and chief executive officer of
AirTouch, Sam Ginn, was expected to be the non-executive chairman of the
combined company, the current president and chief operating officer of
AirTouch, Arun Sarin, was expected to be the regional chief executive
officer for the combined company's U.S./Asia Pacific region and the
current executive vice president and chief financial officer of AirTouch,
Mohan Gyani, was expected to be the head of corporate strategy for the
combined company;
- The board's view that Vodafone should be the acquiror in any merger
transaction and that Vodafone should retain its listing on the London
Stock Exchange;
- The expectation that Vodafone shareholders will hold over 50% of the total
issued share capital of the combined company; and
- The board's view that the merger represents the best opportunity to
implement Vodafone's strategy of concentrating on the provision of mobile
telecommunications services worldwide, increasing shareholdings in
associated companies, bidding for new licenses and making acquisitions,
and that its ability to implement its strategy will be further enhanced
through a combination with AirTouch.
The Vodafone board also considered the following potentially negative
factors:
- The board's concern that AirTouch does not have a national U.S. footprint,
the slower rate of growth in customer numbers in the U.S. and the absence
of billing on a "calling party pays" basis in the U.S. may provide
difficulties in Vodafone's ability to realize the full potential of
entering the U.S. market;
- The potential problems inherent in effecting a transnational combination
of two organizations, each successful in its own right, and integrating
their operations which may divert attention from the ongoing business of
the combined company;
- The board's view that it was uncertain that senior members of AirTouch
management, who in the board's view were primarily responsible for the
success of AirTouch to date, would remain with the combined company after
the merger;
- The overlap of assets in Germany and the fact that it may not be possible
to maintain both Vodafone's and AirTouch's interests in German ventures
after the merger;
- The increased borrowings required to finance the merger and to fund the
combined company after the merger would adversely affect the company's
credit rating, thereby increasing the cost of borrowing to Vodafone
AirTouch; and
- The fact that under U.K. GAAP Vodafone will have to account for the merger
as an acquisition rather than as a merger, which, as a consequence, will
result in a goodwill amortization charge of approximately $3.4 billion per
year for a number of years after the merger, thereby reducing the reported
consolidated profit of Vodafone AirTouch.
The foregoing discussion of the factors considered by the board of directors
of Vodafone is not intended to be exhaustive but includes the material factors
considered by the Vodafone board. In view of the wide variety of factors
considered by the Vodafone board in connection with its evaluation of the merger
and the complexity of these matters, the Vodafone board did not consider it
practical, and did not attempt, to quantify, rank or otherwise assign relative
weights to the specific factors it considered in reaching its decision. The
Vodafone board conducted a discussion of the factors described above, including
asking questions of Vodafone's management and Vodafone's legal, financial and
accounting advisors, and the Vodafone board reached unanimous consensus that the
merger was in the best interests of Vodafone and the Vodafone shareholders. The
Vodafone board relied on, among other things, the experience and expertise of
its financial advisor for certain quantitative analysis of the
36
<PAGE>
financial terms of the merger. In considering the factors described above,
individual members of the Vodafone board may have given different weight to
different factors. See "--Opinions of Financial Advisors--Opinion of Vodafone's
Financial Advisor."
OPINIONS OF FINANCIAL ADVISORS
OPINION OF AIRTOUCH'S FINANCIAL ADVISOR
Under a letter agreement dated as of January 3, 1999, AirTouch engaged
Morgan Stanley to provide financial advisory services. The AirTouch board
selected Morgan Stanley to act as its financial advisor for the merger based on
Morgan Stanley's qualifications, expertise and reputation, as well as its
knowledge of the business and affairs of AirTouch. On January 15, 1999, Morgan
Stanley delivered its oral opinion to the AirTouch board that, as of that date,
the consideration to be received in the merger by AirTouch stockholders was fair
from a financial point of view to AirTouch stockholders. Morgan Stanley later
confirmed its oral opinion by delivery of its written opinion dated January 15,
1999, which stated the considerations and assumptions upon which Morgan
Stanley's opinion was based.
THE FULL TEXT OF THE OPINION DATED JANUARY 15, 1999, WHICH SETS FORTH
ASSUMPTIONS MADE, PROCEDURES FOLLOWED, MATTERS CONSIDERED AND LIMITATIONS ON THE
SCOPE OF THE REVIEW UNDERTAKEN BY MORGAN STANLEY IN RENDERING ITS OPINION, IS
ATTACHED AS APPENDIX B TO THIS PROXY STATEMENT/ PROSPECTUS. MORGAN STANLEY'S
WRITTEN OPINION IS DIRECTED TO THE AIRTOUCH BOARD AND ONLY ADDRESSES THE
FAIRNESS OF THE MERGER CONSIDERATION FROM A FINANCIAL POINT OF VIEW AS OF THE
DATE OF THE OPINION. MORGAN STANLEY'S WRITTEN OPINION DOES NOT ADDRESS ANY OTHER
ASPECT OF THE MERGER AND DOES NOT CONSTITUTE A RECOMMENDATION TO ANY AIRTOUCH
STOCKHOLDER AS TO HOW TO VOTE AT THE AIRTOUCH SPECIAL MEETING. THE FOLLOWING IS
ONLY A SUMMARY OF THE MORGAN STANLEY OPINION. AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS ARE URGED TO
READ THE ENTIRE OPINION.
In arriving at Morgan Stanley's opinion, Morgan Stanley, among other things:
- reviewed publicly available financial statements and other information of
AirTouch and Vodafone;
- reviewed and discussed internal financial statements and financial and
operating data concerning AirTouch and Vodafone prepared by the respective
managements of both companies;
- analyzed financial projections for AirTouch and Vodafone contained in
securities analysts' research reports that the respective managements of
both companies recommended for review;
- discussed the past and current operations and financial conditions and the
prospects of AirTouch and Vodafone, including information relating to
strategic, financial and operational benefits anticipated from the merger,
with the respective managements of both companies;
- analyzed the estimated pro forma impact of the merger on Vodafone's
earnings per share, cash flow, consolidated capitalization and financial
ratios;
- reviewed the reported prices and trading activity for AirTouch common
stock and Vodafone ordinary shares and Vodafone ADSs;
- reviewed and discussed with senior executives of each of AirTouch and
Vodafone the strategic rationale for, and regulatory issues associated
with, the merger;
- compared the financial performance of AirTouch and Vodafone and the prices
and trading activity of AirTouch common stock and Vodafone ordinary shares
and Vodafone ADSs with that of other publicly traded companies and their
securities;
- reviewed the financial terms, to the extent publicly available, of
comparable transactions;
37
<PAGE>
- participated in discussions and negotiations among representatives of
AirTouch and Vodafone and their respective financial, legal and accounting
advisors;
- reviewed the merger agreement and related documents; and
- performed analyses and considered factors that Morgan Stanley deemed
appropriate.
Morgan Stanley assumed and relied upon, without independent verification,
the accuracy and completeness of all of the information reviewed by it. In
relying on the internal financial statements and financial and operating data
and discussions relating to the strategic, financial and operational benefits
anticipated from the merger, Morgan Stanley assumed that the internal financial
statements and financial and operating data of Vodafone and AirTouch were
reasonably prepared based on the best currently available estimates and good
faith judgments of the future competitive, operating and regulatory environments
and related financial performance of AirTouch and Vodafone. In relying on the
financial projections for Vodafone included in the securities analysts' research
reports reviewed by Morgan Stanley, Morgan Stanley assumed that the
recommendation of these reports to it by management of Vodafone indicated their
belief that these reports were reasonably prepared on the bases included in the
prior sentence.
Morgan Stanley relied on the financial projections for AirTouch included in
the research reports reviewed by Morgan Stanley based on its own independent
evaluation of these reports and indications by management of AirTouch that the
analyses contained in these reports were reasonably comprehensive and detailed
and were based on assumptions about the trends influencing AirTouch's financial
results that were generally consistent with those of AirTouch's management.
Morgan Stanley did not make any independent valuation or appraisal of the
assets or liabilities of AirTouch or Vodafone, nor did anyone furnish Morgan
Stanley with any such appraisals. Morgan Stanley's opinion was necessarily based
on economic, market and other conditions in effect on the date of the opinion as
well as the information made available to it at that time.
Morgan Stanley also assumed, with AirTouch's consent, that the merger would
be completed according to the terms of the merger agreement, without waiver of
any condition contained in that agreement, and the merger will be treated as a
tax-free reorganization and/or exchange, each under the U.S. tax code. In
addition, Morgan Stanley assumed that obtaining all necessary regulatory
approvals for the merger will not adversely affect AirTouch, Vodafone or the
contemplated benefits expected to be derived in the merger.
Morgan Stanley was not authorized to solicit, and did not solicit, interest
from any party regarding the acquisition of AirTouch or any of its assets,
although Morgan Stanley participated in discussions with Vodafone and Bell
Atlantic.
The following is a brief summary of the material financial analyses
performed by Morgan Stanley in preparing its opinion. Morgan Stanley used
financial estimates for AirTouch and Vodafone that were based on estimates
published by securities research analysts in the investment community in
performing some of its analyses.
HISTORICAL PUBLIC MARKET TRADING VALUE. Morgan Stanley reviewed the recent
stock price performance of AirTouch based on an analysis of the historical
closing prices and trading volumes from
38
<PAGE>
January 13, 1998, through January 13, 1999. The following table lists the low,
average and high daily closing prices of shares of AirTouch common stock for the
periods indicated.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
HISTORICAL AIRTOUCH COMMON
STOCK PRICES
-------------------------------
LOW AVERAGE HIGH
--------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
One Year......................................................... $ 42.38 $ 54.06 $ 82.00
Six Months ended January 13, 1999................................ 44.50 58.73 82.00
Three Months ended January 13, 1999.............................. 50.31 60.34 82.00
One Month ended January 13, 1999................................. 58.81 70.38 82.00
Ten Days ended January 13, 1999.................................. 68.25 76.30 82.00
</TABLE>
COMPARATIVE STOCK PRICE PERFORMANCE. As part of its analysis, Morgan
Stanley reviewed the recent stock price performance of AirTouch and Vodafone and
compared this performance with that of a group of the following five domestic
cellular companies and five international cellular companies:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DOMESTIC CELLULAR COMPANIES INTERNATIONAL CELLULAR COMPANIES
- -------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------
<S> <C>
360 DEG. Communications Company Europolitan Holdings
Centennial Cellular Corp. NetCom Systems AB
PriCellular Corporation Orange plc
United States Cellular Corporation Telecel Comunicacoes Pessoais S.A.
Vanguard Cellular Systems, Inc. Telecom Italia Mobile Spa
</TABLE>
Morgan Stanley observed that over the period from January 13, 1998, to
January 13, 1999, the closing market prices appreciated as set forth below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
% APPRECIATION
---------------
<S> <C>
AirTouch...................................................................... 78.1%
Vodafone ADSs................................................................. 145.7%
Five Domestic Cellular Companies (equal-weighted index)....................... 110.7%
Five International Cellular Companies (equal-weighted index).................. 148.8%
</TABLE>
Morgan Stanley also compared the closing market price of AirTouch common
stock on January 13, 1998 and January 13, 1999 to the average of the closing
market prices of AirTouch common stock between December 1, 1998, and December
11, 1998, which Morgan Stanley concluded was a period during which speculation
regarding a potential business combination involving AirTouch did not materially
affect the market price of AirTouch common stock. The following table reflects
the results of this exercise and indicates that between the first half of the
month of December 1998 and January 13, 1999, the closing market price of
AirTouch common stock appreciated 32.9%.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLOSING MARKET PRICE TO AVERAGE MARKET PRICE
COMPARISON
- ---------------------------------------------------
JANUARY 13, JANUARY 13,
DECEMBER 1 TO 1998 CLOSING 1999 CLOSING
DECEMBER 11, 1998 PRICE (AS A PRICE (AS A
AVERAGE OF PERCENTAGE OF PERCENTAGE OF
CLOSING DECEMBER 1 TO DECEMBER 1 TO
PRICES 11 AVERAGE) 11 AVERAGE)
- ----------------- --------------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C>
$ 58.13 74.6% 132.9%
</TABLE>
SECURITIES RESEARCH ANALYSTS' FUTURE PRICE TARGETS. Morgan Stanley reviewed
and analyzed future public market trading price targets for AirTouch common
stock and Vodafone ordinary shares prepared and published by securities research
analysts during the period from October 7, 1998 to January 5, 1999, for
AirTouch, and from August 10, 1998 to December 9, 1998, for Vodafone. These
targets reflected each analyst's estimate of the future public market trading
price of AirTouch common stock and Vodafone ordinary shares at the end of the
particular time period considered for each estimate. The future private market
value targets for AirTouch common stock were reviewed by Morgan Stanley
39
<PAGE>
to assess the range of values that the community of securities research analysts
covering AirTouch expected in a change of control transaction. Using a discount
rate of 12.6% for AirTouch and 11.7% for Vodafone, Morgan Stanley discounted
these estimates to January 13, 1999, to arrive at a range of present values of
these targets as set forth below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRESENT VALUE RANGE
--------------------
LOW HIGH
--------- ---------
<S> <C> <C>
AirTouch Public Market Trading Price.......................................... $ 53 $ 78
AirTouch Private Market Value Target.......................................... $ 62 $ 83
Vodafone Public Market Trading Price (ADSs)................................... $ 137 $ 169
</TABLE>
Morgan Stanley noted that the public market trading price and private market
value targets published by the securities research analysts do not reflect
current market trading prices and private market value targets for AirTouch
common stock or Vodafone ordinary shares or Vodafone ADSs and that these
estimates are subject to uncertainties, including the future financial
performance of AirTouch and Vodafone and future financial market conditions.
PEER GROUP COMPARISON. Morgan Stanley compared financial information of
AirTouch and Vodafone with corresponding financial information for the five
domestic cellular companies and the five international cellular companies.
Morgan Stanley analyzed, among other things, the current aggregate value,
i.e., equity value adjusted for capital structure, of each company expressed as
a multiple of earnings before interest, taxes, and depreciation and amortization
expense adjusted to reflect the relative weight of AirTouch's ownership
interests in its domestic and international cellular systems, and the ratio of
the multiple of current aggregate value to estimated EBITDA in the calendar year
1999 to the estimated, long-term EBITDA growth rate. As of January 13, 1999, and
based on estimates of EBITDA and long-term EBITDA growth rates taken from
selected securities research analysts, the statistics derived from this analysis
are set forth below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DOMESTIC CELLULAR COMPANIES INTERNATIONAL CELLULAR
COMPANIES
----------------------------------- ----------------------
AIRTOUCH VODAFONE MEDIAN HIGH LOW MEDIAN HIGH
----------- ----------- ----------- ----- --------- ----------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
1999 EBITDA Multiple...................... 13.6x 22.3x 7.6x 8.8x 7.5x 17.8x 37.1x
EBITDA Multiple/Growth.................... 1.0x 1.3x -- -- -- 1.4x 1.8x
<CAPTION>
LOW
---------
<S> <C>
1999 EBITDA Multiple...................... 12.9x
EBITDA Multiple/Growth.................... 0.9x
</TABLE>
As stated above, the closing market price of AirTouch common stock on
January 13, 1999, was 32.9% higher than the average daily closing price between
December 1 and December 11, 1998. As a result, Morgan Stanley calculated the
financial multiples and ratios for AirTouch based on this average price which
indicated that, based on this price, AirTouch common stock traded at a multiple
of 10.2x estimated EBITDA for the calendar year 1999, representing a multiple of
0.8x its estimated, long-term EBITDA growth rate.
No company used in the peer group comparison is identical to AirTouch or
Vodafone. In evaluating the peer group companies, Morgan Stanley made judgments
and assumptions with regard to industry performance, business, economic, market
and financial conditions and other matters, many of which are beyond the control
of AirTouch and Vodafone, e.g., the impact of competition on AirTouch or
Vodafone and the industry, industry growth and the absence of any material
adverse change in the financial condition and prospects of AirTouch or Vodafone
or the industry or in the financial markets.
ANALYSIS OF SELECTED PRECEDENT TRANSACTIONS. As part of its analysis,
Morgan Stanley reviewed the following twelve transactions involving domestic
cellular companies since 1996:
40
<PAGE>
- April 1996--360 DEG. Communications Company/Independent Cellular Network
Partners
- April 1996--AirTouch Communications, Inc./Cellular Communications, Inc.
- May 1997--The Blackstone Group L.P./CommNet Cellular Inc.
- May 1997--Price Communications Corporation/Palmer Wireless, Inc.
- January 1998--AirTouch Communications, Inc./U S WEST NewVector
- February 1998--Rural Cellular Corporation/Atlantic Cellular Company, L.P.
- March 1998--American Cellular Corp./PriCellular Corporation
- March 1998--ALLTEL Corporation/360 DEG. Communications Company
- July 1998--Welsh, Carson, Anderson & Stowe/Centennial Cellular Corp.
- July 1998--Dobson Communications Corporation/Sygnet Wireless, Inc.
- October 1998--AT&T Corp./Vanguard Cellular Systems Inc.
- October 1998--AT&T Wireless Services Inc./BellSouth Cellular Corp.
For each of these, Morgan Stanley reviewed the prices paid and calculated
the multiples of one year forward EBITDA. This analysis indicated multiples
ranging from 9.1x to 10.9x one year forward EBITDA for these transactions, with
a median multiple of 10.1x. Morgan Stanley determined that, because there were
no relevant publicly disclosed transactions involving international cellular
companies or assets which were directly comparable to AirTouch's international
cellular business, this type of analysis did not constitute an appropriate
valuation methodology for AirTouch's international cellular business.
No transaction used in the analysis of selected precedent transactions is
identical to the merger. In evaluating these transactions, Morgan Stanley made
judgments and assumptions with regard to industry performance, business,
economic, market and financial conditions and other matters, many of which are
beyond the control of AirTouch and Vodafone, e.g., the impact of competition on
AirTouch or Vodafone and the industry, industry growth and the absence of any
material adverse change in the financial condition and prospects of AirTouch or
Vodafone or the industry or in the financial markets.
DISCOUNTED CASH FLOW ANALYSIS. Morgan Stanley performed discounted cash
flow analyses of AirTouch's domestic and international cellular businesses. A
discounted cash flow analysis involves an analysis of the present value of
projected cash flows and a terminal value using discount rates and terminal year
EBITDA multiples as indicated below. Morgan Stanley analyzed AirTouch's domestic
cellular business using a forecast for the period beginning January 1, 1999, and
ending December 31, 2002, based on estimates published by securities research
analysts. Morgan Stanley estimated AirTouch's domestic cellular discounted cash
flow value by using discount rates ranging from 10% to 11% and terminal
multiples of estimated 2002 EBITDA ranging from 9.5x to 10.5x. This analysis
yielded a range of values for AirTouch's domestic cellular business of
approximately $17 billion to $19 billion. Morgan Stanley analyzed AirTouch's
international cellular business using a forecast for the period beginning
January 1, 1999, and ending December 31, 2005, based on estimates published by
securities research analysts. Morgan Stanley estimated AirTouch's international
cellular discounted cash flow value by using discount rates ranging from 10% to
11% and terminal multiples of estimated 2005 EBITDA ranging from 11.0x to 13.0x.
This analysis yielded a range of values for AirTouch's international cellular
business of approximately $25 billion to $29 billion. The discounted cash flow
values of AirTouch's domestic and international cellular businesses implied a
range of values for AirTouch common stock of $65 to $75 per share. In addition,
Morgan Stanley performed sensitivity analyses on assumptions underlying the
international cellular forecast. Specifically, Morgan Stanley
41
<PAGE>
varied the assumptions regarding monthly churn rate, average revenue per user
decline and acquisition costs per gross addition over the projection period.
These changes yielded additional value for AirTouch's international cellular
business of $5 billion to $6 billion using discount rates ranging from 10% to
11% and terminal multiples of estimated 2005 EBITDA ranging from 11.0x to 13.0x.
This sensitivity case implied a range of values for the AirTouch common stock of
$73 to $84 per share.
Morgan Stanley calculated the range of implied 2002 terminal EBITDA
multiples by employing a discounted cash flow analysis that included a forecast
based on estimates published by securities analysts and by assuming a range of
Vodafone ADS prices of $130 to $200. Morgan Stanley then compared these
multiples to the growth in EBITDA between 2002 and 2003. These calculations
implied that in order to arrive at Vodafone ADS prices of $130 and $200, the
2002 terminal multiple would need to be equal to the 2002 to 2003 growth in
EBITDA and be at a 57% premium to the 2002 to 2003 EBITDA growth rate,
respectively. Morgan Stanley observed that the relationship of terminal EBITDA
multiple to growth in EBITDA, I.E., 100% to 157%, suggested by the discounted
cash flow analysis of Vodafone was consistent with similar statistics analyzed
in the peer group comparison of the international cellular companies.
RELATIVE CONTRIBUTION ANALYSIS. Morgan Stanley compared the pro forma
contribution of each of AirTouch and Vodafone, based on historical information
and securities research analyst estimates, to the resultant combined company
assuming completion of the merger. The results of this analysis are set forth
below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AIRTOUCH CONTRIBUTION
---------------------
<S> <C>
1999 EBITDA............................................................. 60.1%
2000 EBITDA............................................................. 58.4%
2001 EBITDA............................................................. 57.7%
2002 EBITDA............................................................. 57.5%
September 30, 1998 Cellular Subscribers................................. 57.9%
September 30, 1998 Cellular Population Coverage......................... 56.6%
</TABLE>
Morgan Stanley then adjusted these statistics to reflect each company's
respective capital structure and then compared them to the pro forma ownership
by AirTouch stockholders, on a diluted basis, of the common stock of the
combined company, implied by the merger consideration, of approximately 50%.
Morgan Stanley also compared these adjusted statistics to the pro forma
ownership by AirTouch stockholders, on a diluted basis, of the common stock of
the combined company, implied by the effective exchange ratio suggested by the
merger consideration, i.e., the exchange ratio plus the fraction that results
from the division of the amount of the cash consideration by the Vodafone ADS
price of $170.50 as of January 13, 1999, of approximately 53.0%.
EXCHANGE RATIO ANALYSIS. Morgan Stanley compared the effective exchange
ratio to the ratio of the closing market prices of AirTouch common stock and
Vodafone ADSs on January 13, 1999. Morgan Stanley also compared this ratio to
selected average historical ratios of the closing market prices of AirTouch
common stock to Vodafone ADSs over various periods ending December 11, 1998,
which date Morgan Stanley concluded was appropriate for this analysis. Morgan
Stanley then calculated the
42
<PAGE>
premiums represented by the effective exchange ratio over these ratios. The
results of this analysis are set forth below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MARKET PRICE
RATIO % PREMIUM/(DISCOUNT)
------------- ---------------------
<S> <C> <C>
January 13, 1999.............................................................. 0.453 22.0%
One-Month Average............................................................. 0.388 42.3%
Six-Month Average............................................................. 0.432 27.8%
One-Year Average.............................................................. 0.468 18.1%
Three-Year Average............................................................ 0.618 (10.5%)
Average Since AirTouch Initial Public Offering................................ 0.708 (21.9%)
</TABLE>
ANALYSIS OF PREMIUMS PAID IN SELECTED PRECEDENT LARGE TRANSACTIONS. Morgan
Stanley reviewed nine selected acquisition transactions with values of $20
billion or greater, and analyzed the premiums paid over prevailing market prices
and exchange ratios in these transactions. Set forth below is a comparison of
the high, low and median premiums at 30 days prior to announcement of the
subject transaction and at one day prior to announcement.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
% PREMIUM
-------------------------------
MEDIAN HIGH LOW
--------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
30 Days Prior.................................................... 27.2% 45.7% 13.5%
One Day Prior.................................................... 29.0% 49.8% 12.6%
</TABLE>
This analysis also indicated premiums/(discounts) represented by the
transaction exchange ratio compared to the one year average market price ratio
in effect prior to the announcement of the subject precedent transaction and to
the trailing three month average market price ratio measured from 30 days prior
to the announcement of the subject precedent transaction as set forth below:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
% PREMIUM/(DISCOUNT)
-------------------------------
MEDIAN HIGH LOW
--------- --------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
One-Year Average Exchange Ratio............................... 23.7% 63.8% (12.6%)
Trailing Three-Month Average Exchange Ratio(1)................ 25.5% 53.2% 3.7%
</TABLE>
- ------------------------
Note: (1) Measured from 30 days prior to announcement of subject precedent large
transaction.
Morgan Stanley observed that the premiums to the market price of AirTouch
common stock 30 days prior to, and on December 11, 1998 implied by the merger
consideration and a closing price for Vodafone ADSs of $170.50 as of January 13,
1999 were 74.7% and 62.1%, respectively. Morgan Stanley also observed that the
premiums to the one year average market exchange ratio of the prices of AirTouch
common stock and Vodafone ADSs and the trailing three month average market
exchange ratio measured from 30 days prior to December 11, 1998, implied by the
effective exchange ratio, were 18.1% and 25.9%, respectively.
PRO FORMA ANALYSIS OF THE MERGER. Morgan Stanley analyzed the pro forma
impact of the merger on Vodafone's earnings per share for the calendar years
1999 and 2000, as estimated by securities research analysts. Morgan Stanley
observed that, assuming the merger was treated as an acquisition for accounting
purposes under U.K. GAAP, the merger would result in earnings per share dilution
for Vodafone shareholders for each of the calendar years 1999 and 2000,
respectively. Morgan Stanley also noted that the pro forma analysis suggested
that the merger would result in a more leveraged capital structure for Vodafone.
43
<PAGE>
Morgan Stanley performed a variety of financial and comparative analyses
solely for purposes of providing its opinion to the AirTouch board as to the
fairness from a financial point of view to the AirTouch stockholders of the
merger consideration. While the foregoing summary describes the analyses and
factors reviewed by Morgan Stanley for its opinion, it is not intended to be a
complete description of all the analyses performed by Morgan Stanley in arriving
at its opinion. The preparation of a fairness opinion is a complex process and
is not necessarily susceptible to partial analysis or summary description.
In arriving at its opinion, Morgan Stanley considered the results of all of
its analyses as a whole and did not attribute any particular weight to any
analysis or factor considered by it. Furthermore, selecting any portion of its
analyses, without considering all analyses, would create an incomplete view of
the process underlying its opinion.
In addition, Morgan Stanley may have given various analyses and factors more
or less weight than other analyses and factors, and may have deemed various
assumptions more or less probable than other assumptions, so that the ranges of
valuations resulting from any particular analysis described above should not be
taken to be Morgan Stanley's view of the actual value of AirTouch or Vodafone.
In performing its analyses, Morgan Stanley made numerous assumptions with
respect to industry performance, business and economic conditions and other
matters, many of which are beyond the control of AirTouch or Vodafone. Any
estimates contained herein are not necessarily indicative of future results or
actual values, which may be significantly more or less favorable than those
suggested by the estimates. Morgan Stanley performed the analyses solely as part
of Morgan Stanley's analysis of the fairness of the merger consideration from a
financial point of view to the AirTouch stockholders and were conducted in
connection with the delivery of its opinion. The analyses are not intended to be
appraisals or to reflect the prices at which AirTouch or Vodafone might actually
be sold or the price at which their securities may trade.
The merger consideration was determined through arm's-length negotiations
between AirTouch and Vodafone and was approved by the AirTouch board. Morgan
Stanley did not recommend any specific merger consideration to AirTouch or that
any specific merger consideration constituted the only appropriate merger
consideration for the merger. Morgan Stanley's opinion to the AirTouch board was
one of many factors taken into consideration by the AirTouch board in making its
determination to approve the merger. Consequently, the Morgan Stanley analyses
described above should not be viewed as determinative of the opinion of the
AirTouch board with respect to the value of AirTouch or whether the AirTouch
board would have been willing to agree to different merger consideration.
The AirTouch board retained Morgan Stanley based upon Morgan Stanley's
qualifications, experience and expertise. Morgan Stanley is an internationally
recognized investment banking and advisory firm. Morgan Stanley, as part of its
investment banking business, is continuously engaged in the valuation of
businesses and securities in connection with mergers and acquisitions,
negotiated underwritings, competitive biddings, secondary distributions of
listed and unlisted securities, private placements and valuations for corporate
and other purposes. In the ordinary course of Morgan Stanley's trading,
brokerage and financing activities, Morgan Stanley or its affiliates may at any
time hold long or short positions, may trade, make a market or otherwise effect
transactions, for its own account or for the accounts of customers, in the
securities of AirTouch or Vodafone. In the past, Morgan Stanley and its
affiliates have provided financial advisory and financing services for AirTouch
and Bell Atlantic and have received fees for the rendering of these services.
In addition to acting as AirTouch's financial advisor in connection with the
merger, Morgan Stanley has, in the past several years, advised AirTouch on other
business combination transactions as well as acted as lead underwriter in
securities offerings. The aggregate fees paid by AirTouch to Morgan Stanley for
services rendered, including fees payable in connection with the merger, total
$71 million. AirTouch has agreed to indemnify Morgan Stanley and its affiliates,
their respective directors, officers, agents and employees and each person, if
any, controlling Morgan Stanley or any of its
44
<PAGE>
affiliates against certain liabilities and expenses, including the fees of its
legal counsel and certain liabilities under the federal securities laws, arising
out of Morgan Stanley's engagement and the transactions in connection therewith.
OPINION OF VODAFONE'S FINANCIAL ADVISOR
In March 1998, Vodafone asked Goldman Sachs International to act as its
financial advisor in connection with a possible combination with AirTouch. At
the January 14, 1999 meeting of the Vodafone board, Goldman Sachs International
gave the Vodafone board an oral opinion, subsequently confirmed in writing,
that, as of the date of the opinion and based upon and subject to the
considerations set forth in its opinion, the consideration to be paid by
Vodafone for each share of AirTouch common stock in the merger is fair from a
financial point of view to Vodafone.
APPENDIX C CONTAINS THE FULL TEXT OF THE GOLDMAN SACHS INTERNATIONAL
OPINION, WHICH SETS FORTH THE ASSUMPTIONS GOLDMAN SACHS INTERNATIONAL MADE,
PROCEDURES IT FOLLOWED, MATTERS IT CONSIDERED AND LIMITATIONS ON THE SCOPE OF
ITS REVIEW AND WHICH IS INCORPORATED BY REFERENCE WITH GOLDMAN SACHS
INTERNATIONAL'S CONSENT. THE GOLDMAN SACHS INTERNATIONAL OPINION ADDRESSES ONLY
THE FAIRNESS OF THE CONSIDERATION TO BE PAID BY VODAFONE FOR EACH SHARE OF
AIRTOUCH COMMON STOCK IN THE MERGER FROM A FINANCIAL POINT OF VIEW ON JANUARY
15, 1999, AND DOES NOT ADDRESS ANY OTHER ASPECT OF THE MERGER. IT IS NOT A
RECOMMENDATION AS TO HOW ANY SHAREHOLDER OF VODAFONE SHOULD VOTE ON THE MERGER.
THE FOLLOWING IS ONLY A SUMMARY OF THE OPINION. YOU SHOULD READ THE ENTIRE
OPINION CAREFULLY.
In giving its opinion, Goldman Sachs International reviewed, among other
things:
(1) the merger agreement;
(2) publicly available information including:
(a) the audited financial statements of Vodafone for the five years ended
March 31, 1998,
(b) the audited financial statements of AirTouch for the five years ended
December 31, 1997,
(c) the unaudited pro forma financial statements of AirTouch for the year
ended December 31, 1997, adjusted to reflect the acquisition of the
U.S. wireless business of U S WEST,
(d) the unaudited interim reports of Vodafone for the periods ended
September 30, 1997 and 1998,
(e) the unaudited quarterly reports of AirTouch on Form 10-Q for the
three consecutive quarterly periods ended September 30, 1997 and 1998
and
(f) certain other communications from Vodafone and AirTouch to their
shareholders; and
(3) internal financial analyses of, and forecasts for, Vodafone and AirTouch
prepared by management of Vodafone, including an estimate of expected
cost savings and other synergies.
Goldman Sachs International also participated in discussions with members of
senior management of Vodafone regarding the strategic rationale for, and the
potential benefits of, the merger and the past and current business operations
of Vodafone and AirTouch, the financial condition and the view of Vodafone's
management of the future prospects of Vodafone and AirTouch, the view of
Vodafone's management of the effects of the merger on the financial condition
and future prospects of Vodafone, AirTouch and the combined Vodafone AirTouch
business, and other matters Goldman Sachs International believed necessary or
appropriate to its inquiry. Goldman Sachs International participated in a
discussion of financial due diligence matters that the senior management of
Vodafone and AirTouch held on January 11, 1999. Goldman Sachs International also
reviewed financial studies and analyses and considered other information that it
deemed appropriate for giving its opinion.
45
<PAGE>
In giving its opinion, Goldman Sachs International relied upon and assumed
the accuracy and completeness of all information reviewed by it. Goldman Sachs
International has not verified the accuracy or completeness of that information,
and it has not evaluated or appraised any assets or liabilities of Vodafone or
AirTouch or any of their respective subsidiaries, nor has Vodafone or AirTouch
or any other person given any valuations or appraisals to Goldman Sachs
International.
Goldman Sachs International assumed that the financial analyses and
forecasts provided to it by Vodafone were reasonably prepared based on
assumptions reflecting the best currently available estimates and judgments of
Vodafone's management as to the expected future financial and operating
performance of Vodafone and AirTouch. Goldman Sachs International also assumed
that the merger would have the tax and accounting consequences described in
discussions with representatives and advisors of Vodafone. In particular,
Goldman Sachs International assumed that Vodafone would account for the merger
as an acquisition under U.K. GAAP and as a purchase under U.S. GAAP. Goldman
Sachs International relied as to all legal matters relevant to its opinion on
the advice of counsel.
The following is a brief summary of the material analyses Goldman Sachs
International performed and reviewed with the Vodafone board when giving its
opinion.
1. COMPARABLE ENTERPRISE VALUE/EBITDA ANALYSIS
Goldman Sachs International reviewed and compared the enterprise value to
EBITDA multiples of Vodafone and AirTouch to those of a number of other European
and U.S. mobile communications companies. The enterprise value/EBITDA multiple
is a commonly used measure of value, and a comparison of this multiple for
different companies can be used to gauge relative value.
Goldman Sachs International calculated enterprise value on a proportionate
basis, including proportionate net debt, and EBITDA on a proportionate basis. In
addition, it based the enterprise value of each company on the aggregate equity
market capitalization of that company, calculated using the closing share price
of the company on January 13, 1999 multiplied by its fully diluted number of
shares based on the most recent publicly available information and taking into
account the spread value of options, plus net debt from the most recent publicly
available balance sheet information of the company. The source for the EBITDA of
each company was research analyst forecasts, adjusted to the years ending
December 31, 1998 and 1999.
This analysis indicated the following enterprise value/EBITDA multiples (1):
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDING DECEMBER
31,
--------------------
<S> <C> <C>
1998 1999
--------- ---------
EUROPEAN
Vodafone (2)...................................................................................... 28.3x 21.9x
Vodafone (3)...................................................................................... 29.6x 22.9x
Orange plc........................................................................................ 64.1x 32.9x
Telecom Italia Mobile Spa......................................................................... 16.6x 13.5x
Europolitan Holdings AB........................................................................... 27.6x 21.1x
Telecel Comunicacoes Pessoais S.A................................................................. 19.6x 17.0x
NetCom Systems AB................................................................................. 29.6x 19.5x
U.S.
AirTouch (2)...................................................................................... 17.4x 13.6x
AirTouch (3)...................................................................................... 19.1x 14.9x
Vanguard Cellular Systems Inc..................................................................... 11.4x 11.1x
United States Cellular Corporation................................................................ 11.5x 9.1x
Western Wireless Corporation...................................................................... 13.2x 10.0x
Price Communications Corporation.................................................................. 12.1x 10.8x
CommNet Cellular Inc.............................................................................. 13.1x 10.6x
</TABLE>
46
<PAGE>
- ------------------------
(1) Based on aggregate equity market capital on a fully diluted basis, taking
into account the spread value of options, at January 13, 1999 plus net debt
at the latest available balance sheet date.
(2) At December 30, 1998, on a proportionate basis.
(3) At January 13, 1999, on a proportionate basis.
2. CONTRIBUTION ANALYSIS
Goldman Sachs International analyzed the expected contribution of Vodafone
and AirTouch to a combined Vodafone AirTouch entity.
Under the terms of the merger, holders of AirTouch common stock will receive
0.5 of a Vodafone ADS plus $9.00 in cash for each share of AirTouch common
stock. Based on the closing price for Vodafone ADSs on January 13, 1999, the
consideration to be paid for AirTouch implied that AirTouch had an aggregate
equity value on a fully diluted basis of $58.7 billion, and that Vodafone had an
aggregate equity value on a fully diluted basis of $53.0 billion. Under this
analysis, current Vodafone shareholders will have an approximate 47.5% economic
interest in the combined Vodafone AirTouch entity on a fully diluted basis.
After adjusting for the cash element of the consideration, Vodafone shareholders
will hold over 50% of the common equity of the combined Vodafone AirTouch entity
on a fully diluted basis.
Goldman Sachs International reviewed and analyzed the then most current
research analyst forecasts for proportionate cellular subscribers, proportionate
revenues and proportionate EBITDA of Vodafone and AirTouch, adjusted, in the
case of AirTouch, to the years ending March 31, 1999 and 2000. For the year
ending March 31, 1999, Vodafone was forecast to contribute approximately 37% of
the proportionate cellular subscribers, approximately 42% of the proportionate
revenues and approximately 40% of the proportionate EBITDA of a combined
Vodafone AirTouch entity. For the year ending March 31, 2000, Vodafone was
forecast to contribute approximately 37% of the proportionate cellular
subscribers, approximately 42% of the proportionate revenues and approximately
41% of the proportionate EBITDA of a combined Vodafone AirTouch entity. In
addition, on the basis of the same analyst research, Vodafone was forecast to
have a compound annual EBITDA growth rate of approximately 27% for the
three-year period ending March 31, 2002, and AirTouch was forecast to have a
compound annual EBITDA growth rate of approximately 24% for the three-year
period adjusted to March 31, 2002.
3. SHARING OF FUTURE BENEFITS OF THE MERGER
Goldman Sachs International noted that the merger was expected to result in
significant future benefits to the two companies. Goldman Sachs International
pointed out that the Vodafone management expected the merger to result in
significant cost and revenue synergies over the next several years. Based on its
preliminary evaluation, Vodafone management expected the merger to deliver
after-tax net cash flow savings of approximately $330 million per year by the
year ending March 31, 2002. The net present value of these savings was
approximately $3.5 billion based on a discount rate of 9%.
4. ANALYSIS OF PURCHASE PRICE
Goldman Sachs International determined that the price Vodafone would pay in
the merger per share of AirTouch common stock would be $94.25, based on the
terms of the merger agreement and a closing price per Vodafone ADS of $170.50 on
January 13, 1999. This price represented a 22% premium over the $77.25 closing
price per share of AirTouch common stock on January 13, 1999 and a
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<PAGE>
36% premium over the $69.38 closing price per share of AirTouch common stock on
December 30, 1998.
Goldman Sachs International also calculated the fully diluted levered
consideration taking into account the spread value of options, as a multiple of
proportionate EBITDA of AirTouch based on current analyst research estimates. It
calculated these multiples using the consideration specified in the merger
agreement of 0.5 of a Vodafone ADS and $9.00 in cash per share of AirTouch
common stock and the closing price for Vodafone ADSs on January 13, 1999.
Goldman Sachs International compared these multiples with the equivalent
multiples for Vodafone.
The following table sets forth, for the periods indicated, the fully diluted
levered consideration as a multiple of proportionate EBITDA of AirTouch and
Vodafone:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
LATEST 12 MONTHS TO YEAR ENDING YEAR ENDING
SEPTEMBER 30, 1998 DECEMBER 31, 1999E DECEMBER 31, 2000E
-------------------------- -------------------------- --------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
EBITDA EBITDA(1) EBITDA(1)
(DOLLARS IN (DOLLARS IN (DOLLARS IN
BILLIONS) MULTIPLE BILLIONS) MULTIPLE BILLIONS) MULTIPLE
------------- ----------- ------------- ----------- ------------- -----------
AirTouch............................... $ 2.6(2) 24.3x $ 3.6 17.9x $ 4.2 15.1x
Vodafone............................... $ 1.8 31.1x $ 2.4 22.9x $ 3.0 18.6x
</TABLE>
- ------------------------
(1) Based on research analyst estimates.
(2) On an adjusted basis, assuming the acquisition of the U.S. wireless
business of U S WEST had taken place at the beginning of the period.
In addition, for the period ending December 31, 1999, Goldman Sachs
International compared the AirTouch enterprise value/EBITDA multiples with
enterprise value/EBITDA multiples set forth above under the comparable
enterprise value/EBITDA analysis for selected European mobile communications
companies.
5. VODAFONE PRO FORMA MERGER ANALYSIS
Goldman Sachs International also analyzed the expected effects of the merger
on Vodafone's future financial and operating performance. Goldman Sachs
International prepared a pro forma analysis of the financial impact of the
merger on the financial performance of Vodafone following the merger, using
estimates prepared by the Vodafone management for proportionate EBITDA, earnings
per share before goodwill amortization and earnings per share after goodwill
amortization of Vodafone for the years ending March 31, 2000, 2001 and 2002, and
estimates based on current analyst research forecasts, adjusted to reflect the
views of Vodafone management, for proportionate EBITDA, earnings per share
before goodwill amortization and earnings per share after goodwill amortization
of AirTouch for the years ending December 31, 1999, 2000 and 2001. Goldman Sachs
International adjusted the estimates for AirTouch to a March 31 year end and
converted dollar amounts into sterling at a fixed exchange rate of $1.65 = L1.
Goldman Sachs International also assumed, based on Vodafone management
estimates, after-tax net cash flow savings from synergies of $330 million by the
year ending March 31, 2002 and phased in the synergies, over the preceding
periods. Goldman Sachs International compared the proportionate EBITDA, earnings
per share before goodwill amortization and earnings per share after goodwill
amortization of Vodafone on a standalone basis with those of the combined
Vodafone AirTouch entity on a pro forma basis. Goldman Sachs International
performed this analysis based on a closing price of $170.50 per Vodafone ADS and
$77.25 per share of AirTouch common stock on January 13, 1999. The analysis
showed that, on an equivalent share basis and excluding any special
restructuring charges, the
48
<PAGE>
merger would be accretive to holders of Vodafone ordinary shares on a
proportionate EBITDA and earnings per share before goodwill amortization basis,
and dilutive to holders of Vodafone ordinary shares on an earnings per share
basis, in each of the years considered.
The preparation of a fairness opinion is a complex process and is not
susceptible to partial analysis or summary description. In arriving at its
opinion, Goldman Sachs International considered the results of all of its
analyses as a whole. Furthermore, Goldman Sachs International believes that
selecting any portion of its analyses, without considering all analyses, could
create an incomplete view of the process underlying its opinion. No company or
transaction Goldman Sachs International used in the analysis referred to above
is identical to Vodafone, AirTouch or the merger. In addition, Goldman Sachs
International may have given various analyses and factors more or less weight
than other analyses and factors and may have deemed various assumptions more or
less probable than other assumptions, and the ranges of valuation resulting from
any particular analysis described above should not be taken as Goldman Sachs
International's view of the actual value of Vodafone or AirTouch. In performing
these analyses, Goldman Sachs International made numerous assumptions with
respect to industry performance, business and economic conditions and other
matters, many of which are beyond the control of Vodafone or AirTouch. Any
estimates contained in Goldman Sachs International's analyses are not
necessarily indicative of future results or actual values, which may be
significantly more or less favorable than those suggested by the estimates.
Goldman Sachs International performed the analyses solely as part of its
analysis of the fairness of the consideration to be paid by Vodafone for each
share of AirTouch common stock in the merger from a financial point of view to
Vodafone. Goldman Sachs International prepared these analyses in connection with
the delivery of its opinion to the Vodafone board. Neither the analyses nor the
Goldman Sachs International opinion is an appraisal. In addition, Goldman Sachs
International has expressed no opinion as to the price at which securities of
Vodafone, AirTouch or Vodafone AirTouch will trade at any time. As described
above, the Goldman Sachs International opinion and presentation to the Vodafone
board was one of the many factors the Vodafone board took into account in making
its determination to approve the merger agreement.
The Vodafone board retained Goldman Sachs International based upon its
qualifications, experience and expertise, including in significant transactions
in the telecommunications and cellular industries. Goldman Sachs International
is an internationally recognized investment banking and advisory firm. As part
of its investment banking and financial advisory business, Goldman Sachs
International is continuously engaged in the valuation of businesses and
securities in connection with mergers and acquisitions, negotiated
underwritings, competitive biddings, secondary distributions of listed and
unlisted securities, private placements and valuations for corporate and other
purposes. In addition, Goldman Sachs International is a full-service securities
firm engaged in securities trading, brokerage and financing activities. Goldman
Sachs International makes a market in Vodafone ordinary shares. In the ordinary
course of its trading and brokerage activities, Goldman Sachs International or
its affiliates may at any time hold long or short positions, and may trade or
otherwise effect transactions, for its own account or the accounts of customers,
in debt or equity securities or senior loans of Vodafone or AirTouch or their
affiliates.
Pursuant to an engagement letter with Goldman Sachs International, Vodafone
has agreed to pay Goldman Sachs International a customary transaction fee based
on the aggregate agreed value of AirTouch plus an additional fee payable solely
at the discretion of Vodafone. A significant portion of both fees is contingent
upon the closing of the merger. Vodafone has also agreed to reimburse Goldman
Sachs International for its reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, including the
fees and expenses of Goldman Sachs International's attorneys, and to indemnify
Goldman Sachs International against certain liabilities, including liabilities
under the federal securities laws. In the past, Goldman Sachs International and
its affiliates have provided financial advisory services to Vodafone, AirTouch
and its affiliates and have received customary fees for such services. The
aggregate fees paid or payable by Vodafone to Goldman Sachs International for
services rendered during the past two years, including in
49
<PAGE>
connection with the merger, total $31.5 million (excluding any future fees
payable at the discretion of Vodafone). During this period, Goldman Sachs
International did not receive any fees from AirTouch.
PLANS FOR AIRTOUCH AFTER THE MERGER
Following the merger, AirTouch will be a subsidiary of Vodafone and will
change its name to "Vodafone AirTouch Inc." Vodafone AirTouch will own all of
the outstanding shares of AirTouch common stock and existing holders or their
transferees will continue to own any outstanding shares of the AirTouch Class C
preferred stock, AirTouch Class D preferred stock and AirTouch Class E preferred
stock. As a result of the internal reorganization, holders of each class of
AirTouch preferred stock will have the right to vote together with the AirTouch
common stock on all matters brought before a meeting of stockholders. The
AirTouch Class C preferred stock will vote on the basis of 1.379 votes per share
and the AirTouch Class D preferred stock and AirTouch Class E preferred stock
will each vote on the basis of 12 votes per share. As a result, following the
merger, Vodafone AirTouch is expected to control, through its ownership of all
of the AirTouch common stock, between approximately 94.4% and 96.9% of the
voting power of all outstanding AirTouch capital stock, depending upon the
number of shares of AirTouch Class C preferred stock converted into AirTouch
common stock and the number of AirTouch stock options exercised prior to the
merger.
INTERESTS OF MEMBERS OF AIRTOUCH BOARD AND MANAGEMENT IN THE MERGER
In considering the recommendation of the AirTouch board to vote "FOR"
approval and adoption of the merger agreement and the agreement providing for
the internal reorganization, AirTouch stockholders should be aware that a number
of directors and officers of AirTouch have certain interests in the merger that
are different from, or in addition to, the interests of AirTouch stockholders
generally. The AirTouch board recognized those interests and determined that
they neither supported nor detracted from the advisability of the merger or the
internal reorganization to AirTouch or its stockholders.
EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS
AirTouch has entered into employment agreements with each of its seven
executive officers:
- Mr. Sam Ginn, chairman of the board and chief executive officer of
AirTouch,
- Mr. Arun Sarin, president and chief operating officer of AirTouch,
- Mr. Mohan Gyani, executive vice president and chief financial officer of
AirTouch,
- Mr. Brian Jones, senior vice president of AirTouch,
- Ms. Margaret Gill, senior vice president, legal, external affairs and
secretary of AirTouch,
- Mr. Craig Farrill, vice president, strategic technology officer of
AirTouch, and
- Mr. Terry D. Kramer, vice president, human resources and corporate
services of AirTouch.
Under the terms of the AirTouch employment agreements, each of the first six
executive officers named above may become entitled to receive the following
benefits if his or her employment terminates under certain conditions within
three years after a change in control of AirTouch, which would be deemed to
occur for purposes of the employment agreements upon completion of the merger:
- a cash severance payment equal to the sum of three times base compensation
in effect on the date of termination, plus 300% of the target award under
the AirTouch Communications Incentive Plan for the calendar year in which
the termination occurs,
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- all equity incentive awards, including stock options and all awards with
respect to equity or derivative securities and non-qualified pension plan
benefits will become fully vested, fully exercisable or fully payable,
- an extension period for incentive awards such that the period beginning on
the date when the termination of employment is effective and ending on the
earlier of the first anniversary of termination or on the executive
officer's death will be counted as employment with AirTouch for purposes
of determining the expiration date of any incentive awards,
- continued coverage under welfare benefit arrangements for a period of up
to three years from the date of termination,
- provision of professional financial counseling services for one year
following termination, and
- if any payments pursuant to the AirTouch employment agreements would be
subject to any excise tax under Section 4999 of the U.S. tax code,
AirTouch will provide an additional gross-up payment so that the executive
officer will retain a net amount equal to the payments he would have
retained if the excise tax had not applied.
The change in control severance benefits for Mr. Kramer are the same as
those for the other executive officers, except the severance payment multiple
referred to above is reduced to two times base compensation, the severance
percentage referred to above is reduced to 200% of the target award for the
calendar year in which the termination occurs, the continuation period for
welfare benefits is reduced to two years, and there is no extension period for
incentive awards. On February 11, 1999, as contemplated in the merger agreement,
the Compensation and Personnel Committee of the AirTouch board acted to
- waive all caps on amounts payable to Mr. Kramer in the event of a change
of control, and
- provide an additional gross-up payment if any payments pursuant to the
AirTouch employment agreement would be subject to any excise tax under
Section 4999 of the U.S. tax code, so that Mr. Kramer will retain a net
amount equal to the payments he would have retained if the excise tax had
not applied, if (1) he remains employed for at least six months after the
merger closes, or (2) his employment is terminated after the merger unless
the termination is voluntary or is a constructive discharge.
AirTouch is obligated to provide the change in control severance benefits to
all seven executive officers if:
- the executive officer voluntarily terminates his employment in response to
a material reduction in salary or benefits, a material change in
responsibilities, or a requirement to relocate, except for office
relocations that would not increase the executive officer's one-way
commute distance by more than 40 miles,
- AirTouch terminates the executive officer's employment for any reason,
including for cause or disability, or
- in the case of an executive officer other than Mr. Kramer, the executive
officer voluntarily terminates his employment for any reason during the
thirteenth full calendar month following a change in control.
The following table sets forth the names, positions and estimated maximum
cash severance payments payable, not including any additional gross-up payment,
under the employment agreements referred to above for the five executive
officers who are expected to receive the greatest benefits under
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<PAGE>
the employment agreements, based on compensation levels as of the date of this
proxy statement/ prospectus.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MAXIMUM CASH
NAME POSITION SEVERANCE AMOUNT
- --------------------------------------- ----------------------------------------------------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C>
Sam L. Ginn............................ Chairman and Chief Executive Officer $ 5,910,000
Arun Sarin............................. President and Chief Operating Officer $ 4,275,000
Mohan S. Gyani......................... Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer $ 2,088,900
Margaret G. Gill....................... Senior Vice President, Legal, External Affairs and
Secretary $ 1,975,050
Brian R. Jones......................... Senior Vice President, Marketing $ 1,809,967
</TABLE>
The aggregate maximum cash severance payments, not including any additional
gross-up payments, that the seven AirTouch executive officers will be entitled
to receive under the employment agreements referred to above equals $18,387,367,
based on compensation levels as of the date of this proxy statement/prospectus.
STOCK OPTIONS
Upon completion of the merger, all then unvested stock options granted under
AirTouch's 1993 Long-Term Stock Incentive Plan will become fully vested and
fully exercisable. The following table sets forth, with respect to the five
highest compensated executive officers:
- the number of shares of AirTouch common stock subject to unvested stock
options held by those persons as of April 20, 1999,
- the weighted average exercise price for those AirTouch stock options and
- the estimated aggregate value of those stock options before deduction for
applicable withholding taxes, assuming that the options are converted into
options to purchase Vodafone AirTouch ADSs, based on the market price of
Vodafone ADSs at the close of business on April 20, 1999 of $170.5625,
determined by subtracting the aggregate exercise price from the total
value of the shares subject to these stock options.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NUMBER OF
SHARES OF
AIRTOUCH
COMMON STOCK
UNDERLYING
UNVESTED WEIGHTED
OPTIONS/SARS AVERAGE ESTIMATED
NAME GRANTED EXERCISE PRICE AGGREGATE VALUE
- ------------------------------------------------------- --------------- ------------------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Sam L. Ginn............................................ 1,195,739 $ 36.76 $ 68,775,994
Arun Sarin............................................. 525,000 $ 43.32 $ 26,757,031
Mohan S. Gyani......................................... 305,000 $ 42.67 $ 15,741,406
Brian R. Jones......................................... 236,000 $ 44.29 $ 11,978,188
Margaret G. Gill....................................... 230,000 $ 44.38 $ 11,476,250
</TABLE>
The total number of unvested AirTouch stock options that will vest upon
completion of the merger held by the seven AirTouch executive officers is
2,759,705. These stock options have an aggregate value of $146,866,282,
determined as described in the preceding paragraph.
RESTRICTED SHARES
All seven executive officers hold shares of restricted AirTouch common stock
under the 1993 Long-Term Stock Incentive Plan, which will be converted into
Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares pursuant to the merger. The restricted stock
will become fully vested and all restrictions thereon will lapse upon completion
of the merger. The following table sets forth, with respect to the five highest
compensated executive officers,
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- the number of shares of restricted AirTouch common stock held by those
persons as of April 20, 1999 and
- the estimated aggregate value of the shares based on the merger
consideration and the price of Vodafone ordinary shares at the close of
business on April 20, 1999 of $170.5625.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TOTAL NUMBER OF
SHARES OF
RESTRICTED ESTIMATED
AIRTOUCH COMMON AGGREGATE
NAME STOCK HELD VALUE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------- ----------------- -------------
<S> <C> <C>
Sam L. Ginn..................................................................... 341,600 $ 30,669,275
Arun Sarin...................................................................... 110,000 $ 9,875,938
Mohan S. Gyani.................................................................. 15,000 $ 1,346,719
Margaret G. Gill................................................................ 15,000 $ 1,346,719
Brian R. Jones.................................................................. 10,000 $ 897,813
</TABLE>
The seven executive officers hold, in the aggregate, 505,600 shares of
restricted stock having a value of $45,393,400, determined as described in the
preceding paragraph.
SUPPLEMENTAL EXECUTIVE PENSION PLAN
Messrs. Sarin and Farrill participate in the minimum pension component of
AirTouch's Supplemental Executive Pension Plan. This is a retirement benefit
equal to 45% of final average compensation and is payable to the executive
officer if he retires at or after 55 years of age with ten years of service. If
either of Messrs. Sarin and Farrill is terminated under circumstances entitling
him to severance benefits under the employment agreements described above within
three years following a change of control, then the participant will be deemed
to have satisfied all age and service requirements for eligibility to receive a
minimum pension benefit under the Supplemental Executive Pension Plan.
The following table sets forth the present value of the maximum additional
benefits that may accrue for the benefit of the named executive officers upon a
qualifying termination of employment:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MAXIMUM ADDITIONAL
SUPPLEMENTAL
EXECUTIVE PENSION
NAME PLAN BENEFIT
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------- -------------------
<S> <C>
Arun Sarin.................................................................. $ 5,900,000
Craig Farrill............................................................... $ 1,950,000
</TABLE>
LONG-TERM INCENTIVE PLAN
Each of the executive officers participates in AirTouch's Long-Term
Incentive Plan. This plan is a part of the AirTouch Communications Incentive
Plan. After the close of each 3-year performance period, the plan may pay cash
awards, depending on the attainment of performance targets for the 3-year
period. Each performance period consists of 3 consecutive calendar years. The
performance periods overlap, with a new one beginning each year.
If an executive officer becomes entitled to a severance benefit under his
employment agreement on account of a change of control, the amount of the actual
award payable for each performance period will be equal to the sum of,
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(1) with respect to the period before termination of employment, a portion
of the award, calculated on the basis of 100% of the target amount, prorated
based on the participant's period of service from the start of the performance
period to the date of termination and
(2) with respect to the period after termination of employment, a portion of
the award, calculated on the basis of 100% of the target amount, prorated based
on the time between the separation from employment and the end of the
performance period and then multiplied by 50%.
The following table sets forth the estimated cash amounts that would be
payable to the named executive officers based on their target awards for current
performance periods, assuming that their employment terminates on July 1, 1999.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
LTIP
NAME DISTRIBUTION
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------- ---------------
<S> <C>
Sam L. Ginn.................................................................. $ 590,259
Arun Sarin................................................................... $ 399,498
Mohan S. Gyani............................................................... $ 196,686
Margaret G. Gill............................................................. $ 185,966
Brian R. Jones............................................................... $ 170,463
</TABLE>
The seven executive officers will be eligible to receive, in the aggregate,
estimated cash amounts of $1,724,345 based on their target awards for current
performance periods, assuming that their employment terminates on July 1, 1999.
OTHER AGREEMENTS
Vodafone has entered into an agreement with Mr. Sam Ginn which provides for
his engagement as a non-executive director of Vodafone AirTouch and as chairman
of the board of directors for a two-year term following the merger. The
agreement provides for an annual fee of $375,000, payment of agreed expenses
during the term of the agreement and the provision of perquisites during the
term of the agreement and thereafter. The agreement will take effect only if the
conditions to the merger set out in the merger agreement are satisfied or waived
and Mr. Ginn is elected as a director of Vodafone AirTouch.
DIRECTOR AND OFFICER INDEMNIFICATION AND INSURANCE
In the merger agreement, Vodafone and AirTouch have agreed that after the
merger all rights to indemnification and all limitations on liability existing
under the AirTouch certificate of incorporation and the AirTouch by-laws in
favor of directors and officers of AirTouch, or under an agreement in effect as
of the date of the merger agreement between any director or officer and AirTouch
or its subsidiaries, with respect to actions or omissions by them on or prior to
the merger, will continue in full force and effect. In addition, subject to
those limitations described in the merger agreement, Vodafone AirTouch will, for
six years after the merger, provide directors' and officers' liability insurance
for acts or omissions occurring prior to the merger covering each person
currently covered by AirTouch's directors' and officers' liability insurance on
terms and in amounts no less favorable than those of the policy currently in
effect.
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
As of the date hereof, the board of directors of Vodafone comprises 10
directors. Vodafone and AirTouch have agreed that, upon completion of the
merger, the Vodafone AirTouch board will comprise 14 persons, seven of whom will
be designated by Vodafone of whom three will be non-executive directors and
seven of whom will be designated by AirTouch of whom five will be non-executive
directors. The AirTouch designees are Messrs. Ginn, Sarin, Gyani, Donald G.
Fisher, Paul Hazen, Michael J. Boskin and Charles R. Schwab. See "DIRECTORS AND
MANAGEMENT OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH FOLLOWING THE MERGER."
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<PAGE>
ACCOUNTING TREATMENT
Vodafone AirTouch will account for the merger as an acquisition under U.K.
GAAP in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard 6, "Acquisitions and
Mergers" and will account for the merger as a purchase for U.S. GAAP purposes in
accordance with APB Opinion No. 16, "Business Combinations."
In each case, the excess of the purchase price over the fair value of the
net assets acquired will be recorded as goodwill and amortized over its
estimated economic life. The merger will result in a goodwill amortization
charge of approximately $3.4 billion per year for a number of years after the
merger, thereby reducing the reported consolidated profit of Vodafone AirTouch
under U.K. GAAP. This goodwill amortization arises as an accounting charge
against profit upon the consolidation of Vodafone and AirTouch but will not
affect Vodafone AirTouch's cash flows, distributable reserves or ability to pay
dividends. Following the merger, Vodafone AirTouch will report earnings per
share before goodwill amortization expense and profit or loss on the disposal of
fixed asset investments, in addition to basic and diluted earnings per share.
For more detail about the amount of goodwill Vodafone AirTouch will have to
record and the way in which such goodwill will be amortized, see note 2 to the
unaudited pro forma consolidated financial statements included in the section of
this proxy statement/ prospectus entitled "VODAFONE AIRTOUCH UNAUDITED PRO FORMA
CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION."
SOURCE AND AMOUNT OF FUNDS AND OTHER CONSIDERATION
Vodafone expects to pay approximately $5.5 billion in cash to holders of
shares of AirTouch common stock in the merger. This amount may vary slightly
depending upon the number of shares of AirTouch common stock outstanding at the
time of the merger, which depends upon the number of AirTouch stock options
exercised prior to the merger, the number of shares of AirTouch Class C
preferred stock converted prior to the merger, the number of shares, if any,
repurchased by AirTouch, and the extent of any exercise of appraisal rights. In
addition, Vodafone and AirTouch currently expect to pay approximately $270
million to cover expenses incurred in connection with the merger. These amounts
will be financed by the new $10.5 billion credit facility entered into by
Vodafone and AirTouch on April 16, 1999 as well as from generally available
funds of Vodafone and AirTouch.
The new credit facility is split into three tranches. Tranche A is a
$4,000,000,000 revolving loan facility and Tranche B a $3,000,000,000 term loan
facility, each of which is available in the first year of the facility. Vodafone
has the option of extending the repayment of advances under those tranches up to
the second anniversary of the date of the facility. Tranche C is a
$3,500,000,000 revolving loan facility, available for five years. Advances may
be drawn in U.S. dollars, sterling and euros.
Facility advances will bear interest at a rate per annum equal to the sum of
(i) the applicable margin, (ii) LIBOR and (iii) the cost to the lenders of
complying with capital adequacy and other regulatory requirements. The
applicable margin varies for each of the tranches according to tranche
utilization and the credit rating assigned to Vodafone AirTouch at the relevant
time, and ranges from 0.45% per annum to 0.80% per annum. Commitment fees of
0.125% per annum for Tranches A and B and 40% of the margin for Tranche C are
also payable on undrawn amounts of the facility.
If there is a change in control of Vodafone, individual lenders may require
that their participation in the facility be cancelled and prepaid if they are
not able to agree to terms on which they are willing to continue to participate
in the facility.
Certain other terms and conditions usual for facilities of this type apply
to the facility, including conditions precedent, prepayment provisions,
representations and warranties, covenants such as compliance with financial
ratios, events of default, indemnities and provisions to protect the margin
receivable by the lenders. Vodafone has the option, at its election, to suspend
the operation of certain specified conditions to the availability of the
facility for up to two months before completion of the merger to provide
certainty of funding.
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<PAGE>
OTHER EFFECTS OF THE MERGER
The content and timing of reports and notices that Vodafone files and that
Vodafone AirTouch will
file with the SEC differ in several respects from the reports and notices that
AirTouch currently files. Vodafone is, and Vodafone AirTouch will be, a foreign
private issuer for the purposes of the reporting rules under the Exchange Act.
As a U.S. reporting company, AirTouch must file with the SEC, among other
reports and notices,
(1) an annual report on Form 10-K within 90 days after the end of each
fiscal year,
(2) quarterly reports on Form 10-Q within 45 days after the end of each
fiscal quarter, and
(3) reports on Form 8-K upon the occurrence of certain corporate events.
As a foreign private issuer, pursuant to the requirements of the Securities
Exchange Act, Vodafone is, and Vodafone AirTouch will be, required to
(1) file with the SEC an annual report on Form 20-F within six months after
the end of each fiscal year and
(2) furnish reports on Form 6-K upon the occurrence of significant corporate
events.
Vodafone AirTouch will not be required under the Exchange Act to file quarterly
reports on Form 10-Q after the end of each financial quarter.
In addition, the content and timing of reports and notices that holders of
Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares and Vodafone AirTouch ADSs will receive will
differ from the reports and notices that are currently received by AirTouch
stockholders. As a U.S. reporting company, AirTouch must mail to its
stockholders in advance of each annual meeting of stockholders
(1) an annual report containing audited financial statements and
(2) a proxy statement that complies with the requirements of the Exchange
Act.
As a foreign private issuer, Vodafone AirTouch will be exempt from the rules
under the Exchange Act prescribing the furnishing and content of annual reports
and proxy statements to its shareholders. However, Vodafone AirTouch will cause
holders of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs to be furnished with an annual report which
contains audited financial statements prepared in conformity with U.K. GAAP,
including U.S. GAAP reconciliations and a discussion of Vodafone AirTouch's
financial results that is comparable to the management's discussion and analysis
that is contained in AirTouch's annual reports on Form 10-K. Vodafone AirTouch
will also furnish ADS holders with semi-annual interim reports which include
unaudited interim financial information prepared in conformity with U.K. GAAP
and notices of meetings of shareholders and related documents in accordance with
the rules of the London Stock Exchange. As promptly as practicable after each of
those reports is ready for distribution to shareholders, Vodafone AirTouch will
furnish the depositary, The Bank of New York, with sufficient copies of these
reports as well as other communications and notices that Vodafone AirTouch
generally makes available to its shareholders. Then, at the request of Vodafone
AirTouch, the depositary will arrange for the mailing of the documents to
holders of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs as promptly as possible thereafter. Holders of
Vodafone AirTouch ADSs will also be able to obtain from the depositary a copy of
the company's most recent annual report on Form 20-F. The depositary has also
agreed to make these documents available for inspection at the depositary's
office. See "DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH AMERICAN DEPOSITARY SHARES."
Pursuant to the merger agreement, Vodafone has agreed that, beginning as
soon as practicable after the merger, and in any event within two years thereof,
it will
(1) make filings with the SEC on Form 6-K within 45 days after the end of
its first three fiscal quarters in each of its fiscal years containing
the principal financial information required by Form 10-Q, and
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<PAGE>
(2) make any requisite filings on Form 20-F with the SEC within 90 days
after the end of each fiscal year.
Vodafone currently intends to post Vodafone AirTouch's company annual reports
and other information on its internet web site at www.vodafone.co.uk.
If the merger is completed, the AirTouch common stock and the AirTouch Class
B preferred stock will be delisted from the NYSE and will be deregistered under
the Exchange Act. The AirTouch common stock will also be delisted from the
Pacific Exchange. Shares of AirTouch Class C preferred stock outstanding after
the merger will continue to be listed on the NYSE and, as a result, AirTouch
will continue to be a reporting company under the Exchange Act. When all shares
of AirTouch Class C preferred stock have been redeemed or converted under their
terms, AirTouch will no longer be required by the Exchange Act to be a reporting
company.
AirTouch common stock is presently included in the S&P 500 index. Mutual
funds and other investment vehicles whose investment objective is to track the
performance of the S&P 500 index currently hold a substantial amount of AirTouch
common stock. These funds will be required to sell their AirTouch shares (or the
Vodafone AirTouch ADSs they receive in the merger) if, as is likely after the
merger, AirTouch is removed from the S&P 500. These sales could adversely affect
the market price for the Vodafone AirTouch ADSs.
In addition, after the merger the relative weight of Vodafone AirTouch in
the U.K. series of the Financial Times Stock Exchange Actuaries Indices is
expected to increase. As a result, pension funds, unit trusts and other
investment vehicles whose investment objective is to track the performance of
these indices are likely to increase their holdings of Vodafone AirTouch
ordinary shares.
Due to the additional indebtedness that Vodafone will incur in connection
with the merger as well as the rating differential of the existing indebtedness
of the two companies, Standard & Poor's and Moody's Investor Services may
downgrade Vodafone's corporate credit ratings. Vodafone and AirTouch believe,
however, that any resulting increase in the net borrowing costs of the combined
company arising from a downgrade after the merger would not be material.
AirTouch's U.S. personal communications services operations are carried out
jointly within its PrimeCo partnership with Bell Atlantic Mobile. AirTouch and
Bell Atlantic Mobile are equal partners in PrimeCo, whose markets complement the
existing U.S. cellular franchises of the partners. PrimeCo began providing
service in November 1996 and at December 31, 1998 had over 902,000 customers.
Bell Atlantic stated in a proxy statement dated April 13, 1999 that upon
completion of the Vodafone/ AirTouch merger, Bell Atlantic intends to exercise
its option to dissolve PrimeCo and divide PrimeCo's personal communications
services properties with AirTouch in accordance with procedures contained in the
PrimeCo partnership agreement. Neither Vodafone nor AirTouch believes that such
a dissolution would have a material adverse effect on the combined company.
CERTAIN LITIGATION
AirTouch has recently been served with complaints in the following two
matters:
In March 1999, customers of AirTouch filed a class action complaint in Los
Angeles County Superior Court against AirTouch challenging the legality of the
assessment of an early disconnection charge when a customer terminates service
under a contract whose duration has been extended upon the acceptance of a new
promotional offer. The plaintiffs are seeking injunctive relief and unspecified
monetary damages, including disgorgement of monies obtained as a result of the
alleged unlawful business practices.
In April 1999, a complaint was filed against AirTouch in the State of
Michigan on behalf of all individuals subscribing to service in that state. The
plaintiffs are challenging the legality of AirTouch's assessment of certain
charges for local calls and charges for calls that pass through wireline
networks. The plaintiffs are seeking injunctive relief and unspecified monetary
damages.
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<PAGE>
In addition, on January 6, 1999, a lawsuit against AirTouch was filed in
U.S. District Court for the Central District of California alleging that a
January 3, 1999 AirTouch press release was false and misleading under Rule 10b-5
promulgated under the Exchange Act because it failed to disclose material
information about AirTouch's merger discussions. The complaint, filed as a
purported class action on behalf of all sellers of AirTouch common stock and
options on January 3, 1999, seeks an unspecified amount of damages.
Also, shortly after execution of the merger agreement was announced, Bell
Atlantic, AirTouch's 50/50 partner in the PrimeCo and TOMCOM joint ventures,
filed a lawsuit seeking to void provisions in the joint venture agreements
limiting the partners' competitive activities outside of the joint ventures.
Bell Atlantic is seeking preliminary and permanent injunctive relief to void
these provisions. The court has set the matter for hearing on May 24, 1999.
Each of the aforementioned cases is in the preliminary phase and AirTouch is
not currently able to assess the impact, if any, of the cases on its financial
position or results of operations. AirTouch intends to vigorously oppose each of
these actions.
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<PAGE>
THE INTERNAL REORGANIZATION
The purpose of the internal reorganization is to amend AirTouch's
certificate of incorporation to satisfy requirements to permit the
Vodafone/AirTouch merger to be tax-free to U.S. holders of AirTouch common
stock, except with respect to cash received in the merger. If AirTouch
stockholders approve and adopt the agreement providing for the AirTouch internal
reorganization and the agreement is not otherwise terminated, AirTouch will
cause AirTouch Merger Sub, a newly-formed wholly owned subsidiary of AirTouch,
to merge with and into AirTouch, with AirTouch being the surviving corporation.
AirTouch Merger Sub will not have conducted any material business prior to the
time of the internal reorganization. In connection with the internal
reorganization, appraisal rights will be available to the holders of AirTouch
Class D preferred stock and AirTouch Class E preferred stock who comply with the
applicable provisions of Delaware law. The following is only a description of
the internal reorganization to be effected. You are encouraged to read the
complete text of the merger agreement between AirTouch and AirTouch Merger Sub
which is attached hereto as Appendix D. The terms of this agreement supersede
the description of the internal reorganization contained in the merger agreement
between Vodafone and AirTouch.
After completion of the internal reorganization,
(1) each share of AirTouch common stock outstanding immediately prior to the
internal reorganization will remain outstanding as a share of AirTouch
common stock;
(2) each share of AirTouch Class B preferred stock outstanding immediately
prior to the internal reorganization will remain outstanding as a share
of AirTouch Class B preferred stock;
(3) each share of AirTouch Class C preferred stock outstanding immediately
prior to the internal reorganization will remain outstanding as a share
of AirTouch Class C preferred stock;
(4) each share of AirTouch Class D preferred stock outstanding immediately
prior to the internal reorganization, except for shares with respect to
which holders have asserted appraisal rights, will remain outstanding as
a share of AirTouch Class D preferred stock; and
(5) each share of AirTouch Class E preferred stock outstanding immediately
prior to the internal reorganization, except for shares with respect to
which holders have asserted appraisal rights, will remain outstanding as
a share of AirTouch Class E preferred stock.
Subject to approval and adoption of the agreement providing for the internal
reorganization by the holders of AirTouch common stock and AirTouch Class B
preferred stock representing not less than a majority of the voting power of the
AirTouch common stock and the AirTouch Class B preferred stock entitled to vote
thereon, voting as a single class, the closing of the internal reorganization
will occur as soon as practicable after the special meeting of AirTouch
stockholders but in no event later than the day prior to the date of the
Vodafone/AirTouch merger. See "THE SPECIAL MEETING."
Under the internal reorganization, the AirTouch certificate of incorporation
will be amended to provide that, after the reorganization:
(1) the holders of AirTouch Class C preferred stock will be entitled to vote
together with the holders of AirTouch common stock on all matters to be
voted upon by holders of AirTouch common stock, and each share of
AirTouch Class C preferred stock will be entitled to 1.379 votes per
share of AirTouch Class C preferred stock. Upon redemption of AirTouch
Class C preferred stock after the merger, a holder of any redeemed Class
C preferred share will be entitled to receive that number of Vodafone
AirTouch ADSs and that amount of cash as that holder would have been
entitled to receive in the merger had the holder held that number of
shares of AirTouch common stock that the holder would have received had
AirTouch redeemed such holder's AirTouch Class C preferred stock
immediately prior to the merger;
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(2) the holders of AirTouch Class D preferred stock will be entitled to vote
together with the holders of AirTouch common stock on all matters to be
voted upon by the holders of AirTouch common stock on the basis of 12
votes for each share of AirTouch Class D preferred stock held, AirTouch
will no longer be able to redeem the AirTouch Class D preferred stock
prior to its maturity date of April 6, 2020, and AirTouch will not be
able to change the maturity date or any dividend payment date for these
shares, decrease the amount of any dividend, redemption or liquidation
payment to holders of the AirTouch Class D preferred stock or enter into
a merger that would result in the AirTouch Class D preferred stock being
converted into cash, in each case without the consent of the holders of a
majority of these shares, and
(3) the holders of AirTouch Class E preferred stock will be entitled to vote
together with the holders of AirTouch common stock on all matters to be
voted upon by holders of AirTouch common stock on the basis of 12 votes
for each share of AirTouch Class E preferred stock, the maturity date of
the AirTouch Class E preferred stock will be extended from April 7, 2018
to April 1, 2020, the dividend payable to the holders of the AirTouch
Class E preferred stock on the first dividend payment date after the
effective time of the internal reorganization will be increased by $25.00
to $37.8575, and AirTouch will not be able to change the maturity date or
any dividend payment date for these shares, decrease the amount of any
dividend, redemption or liquidation payment to holders of the AirTouch
Class E preferred stock or enter into a merger agreement that would
result in the AirTouch Class E preferred stock being converted into cash,
in each case without the consent of the holders of a majority of these
shares.
The changes to the AirTouch certificate of incorporation to be effected
pursuant to the internal reorganization will not affect any of the powers,
preferences or rights of the AirTouch common stock or AirTouch Class B preferred
stock.
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<PAGE>
REGULATORY MATTERS
Under the merger agreement, neither party is required to complete the merger
unless all required regulatory consents and approvals that would be material to
Vodafone and AirTouch on a combined basis are obtained without any restrictions
or conditions that would have a material adverse effect on Vodafone and AirTouch
on a combined basis. It is possible that these regulatory consents and approvals
will not be obtained at all or on a timely basis or that material conditions
will be imposed on these consents and approvals. See "THE MERGER
AGREEMENT--Conditions."
FEDERAL COMMUNICATIONS COMMISSION
The merger is subject to the requirements of the Communications Act of 1934
and the rules, regulations and policies of the Federal Communications
Commission. Under FCC rules, the acquisition by Vodafone of all outstanding
AirTouch common stock is deemed to result in a change in control of AirTouch and
its subsidiaries holding FCC authorizations and licenses and, as a result, prior
FCC approval must be obtained. Under the Communications Act, the FCC must
determine that the proposed change in control serves the public interest,
convenience and necessity before it can approve the transaction. In making this
determination, the FCC examines whether a proposed transfer is consistent with
the policies of the Communications Act, including, among other things, the
effect of the proposed transfer on FCC policies encouraging competition.
The FCC will also consider whether the application satisfies the framework
for a non-U.S. carrier to enter into the U.S. telecommunications market. The
Communications Act allows a non-U.S. investor to acquire up to a 25% ownership
interest in the parent company of a U.S. common carrier radio licensee without
FCC approval, and the FCC has discretion to authorize indirect non-U.S.
ownership exceeding 25% if it finds that this ownership would not be
inconsistent with the public interest. The FCC has adopted a presumption in
favor of permitting non-U.S. entities from World Trade Organization member
states, including the United Kingdom, to acquire up to a 100% indirect interest
in a U.S. common carrier radio licensee. The FCC reserves the right to deny an
application in the exceptional case where entry into the U.S. market by a
non-U.S. telecommunications carrier from a WTO member state poses a very high
risk to competition in the U.S. market.
Vodafone and AirTouch filed with the FCC applications requesting the FCC's
consent to the change in control of AirTouch's radio licenses on February 3,
1999. These FCC applications were placed on public record on February 8, 1999.
Vodafone and AirTouch believe it is likely that the FCC will grant these
applications. However, the FCC applications are subject to public comment,
petitions to deny, and informal objections by third parties who may object in an
attempt to delay or impede approval by the FCC. The period for filing and
responding to public comments on the FCC applications expired on March 29, 1999,
but several comments and objections were filed prior to the March 29 deadline.
Vodafone and AirTouch have responded to those comments and objections.
Accordingly, it is possible that the FCC will not grant the FCC applications in
a timely fashion, will subject their approval to conditions or restrictions or
will not grant the FCC applications at all.
U.S. ANTITRUST
Under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of 1976, as amended
and the rules promulgated thereunder, the merger may not be completed unless
specific waiting period requirements have been satisfied. On February 4, 1999,
Vodafone and AirTouch each filed a premerger notification and report form under
the HSR Act with the Antitrust Division of the Department of Justice and the
Federal Trade Commission. Early termination of the applicable waiting period
under the HSR Act was granted on March 2, 1999.
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EXON-FLORIO
The provisions of Exon-Florio under the Omnibus Trade and Competitiveness
Act of 1988 empower the President of the United States to prohibit or suspend an
acquisition of, or investment in, a U.S. company by a non-U.S. company if the
President finds, after investigation, credible evidence that the non-U.S. person
might take action that threatens to impair the national security of the U.S. and
that provisions of existing law do not provide adequate and appropriate
authority to protect the national security. Any determination that an
investigation is called for must be made within 30 days of notice of the
proposed transaction. If a determination is made, any investigation must be
completed within 45 days of the determination and any decision to take action
must be announced within 15 days of completion of the investigation.
On March 4, 1999, Vodafone and AirTouch filed a voluntary notice under
Exon-Florio requesting confirmation that the merger does not threaten to impair
the national security of the United States. On April 5, 1999 the Department of
the Treasury granted the request of Vodafone and AirTouch to withdraw the March
4 voluntary notice on the ground that the only issues raised in the review of
that notice were identical to those raised in the FCC proceedings. Vodafone and
AirTouch believe that they will be able to reach agreement on these issues in
the context of the FCC review process. If and when the FCC order is issued,
Vodafone and AirTouch may file a new voluntary notice under Exon-Florio.
STATE REGULATORY APPROVALS
Vodafone and AirTouch have filed applications to seek prior approval of the
merger from the Georgia Public Service Commission, the Louisiana Public Service
Commission and the Nevada Public Utilities Commission and all three commissions
have granted approval of the merger. In addition to the aforementioned state
applications, Vodafone and AirTouch have filed mandatory notices of the merger
with the California Public Utilities Commission, the Kentucky Public Service
Commission, the New Mexico Public Regulation Commission, the Ohio Public
Utilities Commission and the Wisconsin Public Service Commission. A request has
been filed with the Ohio Public Utilities Commission to suspend the
effectiveness of the notice filed by Vodafone and AirTouch, and Vodafone and
AirTouch have opposed that request. Notwithstanding the Ohio proceeding,
Vodafone and AirTouch believe that it is likely that all of the notices filed at
the state public service commissions will become effective other than those the
failure of which to be obtained would not have a material adverse effect on
Vodafone and AirTouch on a combined basis. It is possible, however, that the
Ohio Public Utilities Commission will suspend the effectiveness of the Vodafone
and AirTouch notice pending further proceedings or will subject such notice to
conditions or restrictions. No further state filings or approvals are required.
EUROPEAN UNION
Vodafone and AirTouch each conducts business in member states of the
European Union. Council Regulation (EEC) 4064/89, as amended, requires
notification to and approval by the European Commission of mergers or
acquisitions involving parties with aggregate worldwide sales and individual
European Union sales exceeding specified thresholds before these mergers or
acquisitions are implemented. Vodafone and AirTouch filed a merger notification
with the European Union antitrust authorities on April 6, 1999.
The European Commission must review the merger to determine whether or not
it is compatible with the common market and, accordingly, whether or not to
permit it to proceed. A merger or acquisition which does not create or
strengthen a dominant position that would significantly impede effective
competition in the common market or in a substantial part of it shall be
declared compatible with the common market, and must be allowed to proceed. If,
following a preliminary one month Phase I investigation, the European Commission
considers that it needs to examine the merger more closely because it raises
serious doubts as to its compatibility with the common market, it must initiate
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further Phase II investigation procedures. If it initiates a Phase II
investigation, the European Commission must issue a final decision as to whether
or not the merger is compatible with the common market no later than four months
after the initiation of the Phase II investigation. If no Phase II investigation
is initiated, then at the end of the Phase I investigation, the European
Commission will issue a decision declaring the merger to be compatible with the
common market, thereby allowing the merger to proceed. If the European
Commission has not issued a final decision by the end of the Phase I
investigation or, if Phase II proceedings have been initiated, the Phase II
investigation, the merger is deemed cleared. The Phase I investigation period
may be extended to six weeks if, within three weeks of receipt of the
notification, a member state requests the European Commission to refer all or
part of the merger back to the competent authority of the member state
concerned, or, if after the notification, the notifying parties offer
commitments to the European Commission during the Phase I investigation to
remedy any antitrust concerns.
Vodafone and AirTouch believe that the European Commission should declare
the proposed merger compatible with the common market under Council Regulation
(EEC) 4064/89, as amended, although in order to obtain clearance of the merger,
Vodafone expects to enter into an undertaking with the European Commission to
sell its participation in its German affiliate, E-Plus Mobilfunk GmbH. It is
also possible that the European Commission will initiate a Phase II
investigation or that the European Commission may declare the merger
incompatible with the common market.
UNITED KINGDOM
Vodafone conducts business and holds a number of telecommunications and
wireless telegraphy licenses in the United Kingdom. No approvals or
notifications under its licenses are required in the United Kingdom to complete
the merger because there will be no change in control of any of the Vodafone
licensed companies.
OTHER LAWS
Under Polish communications regulations, Vodafone must obtain approval from
the Minister of Telecommunications prior to completion of the merger. On April
21, 1999, Polkomtel, S.A., AirTouch's Polish affiliate, filed an application to
seek prior approval of the merger from the Minister of Telecommunications.
Vodafone and AirTouch believe that it is likely that the Minister of
Telecommunications will grant the necessary approval. It is possible, however,
that the Minister of Telecommunications will not grant the approval in a timely
fashion or will subject its approval to conditions or restrictions.
In addition, under Polish law, the merger may not be completed unless the
Polish Office of Competition and Consumer Protection issues its approval of the
transaction or specified waiting period requirements have been satisfied. On
February 15, 1999 AirTouch filed and on March 2, 1999 Vodafone filed a
Notification of Intended Merger of Entities with the Polish Office of
Competition and Consumer Protection pursuant to this antitrust law. The Polish
Competition Office granted approval of the merger on April 13, 1999.
The German national regulatory authority, REGULIERUNGSBEHORDE FUR
TELEKOMMUNIKATION UND POST, has advised AirTouch's German affiliate, Mannesmann
Mobilfunk, that it must obtain approval from such authority for the change in
ownership of Mannesmann Mobilfunk prior to completion of the merger. Mannesmann
Mobilfunk will shortly file an application to seek prior approval for this
change. Vodafone and AirTouch believe that it is likely that this approval will
be granted. It is possible, however, that approval will not be granted in a
timely manner or will be subject to conditions or restrictions.
Notifications of the merger will be required under the relevant
telecommunications licenses in France. The French mobile operator in which
Vodafone is a shareholder, SFR, will have to notify the
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French telecommunications regulator, ART, of the new capital structure of
Vodafone following the merger. The notification must include a description of
the new capital structure of Vodafone following the merger, details of the
anticipated changes in the composition of Vodafone's shareholdings and the
timetable for the merger. Provided that this notification is made, the ART will
not have any grounds upon which to object to the merger.
Vodafone and AirTouch conduct operations in a number of jurisdictions where
other regulatory filings or approvals may be required or advisable in connection
with the completion of the merger. Vodafone and AirTouch are currently in the
process of reviewing whether filings or approvals may be required or desirable
in these jurisdictions which may be material to Vodafone and AirTouch and its
subsidiaries. It is possible that one or more of these filings may not be made,
or one or more of these approvals, which are not as a matter of practice
required to be obtained prior to effectiveness of a merger transaction, may not
be obtained, prior to the merger.
GENERAL
It is possible that one or more of the regulatory approvals required to
complete the merger will not be obtained on a timely basis or at all. In
addition, it is possible that any of the governmental entities with which
filings are made may seek, as conditions for granting approval of the merger,
regulatory concessions. Under the merger agreement, if any regulatory body's
approval is subject to conditions or restrictions that would have a material
adverse effect on Vodafone or AirTouch on a combined basis, either Vodafone or
AirTouch can elect not to complete the merger. It is possible that Vodafone or
AirTouch will not be able to comply with conditions imposed or that compliance
or non-compliance will have adverse consequences for Vodafone AirTouch after
completion of the merger. See "THE MERGER AGREEMENT--Conditions."
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MATERIAL TAX CONSEQUENCES
GENERAL
The following is a discussion of the material U.S. federal income tax
consequences of the internal reorganization and the merger to U.S. holders of
AirTouch common stock, AirTouch Class B preferred stock and AirTouch Class C
preferred stock and the material U.S. federal income tax considerations and
United Kingdom tax considerations applicable to the ownership of Vodafone
AirTouch shares by U.S. holders. Subject to the limitations and qualifications
set forth herein, the following description of the U.S. federal income tax
consequences relating to the internal reorganization and the merger represents
the opinion of Sullivan & Cromwell, U.S. tax counsel to Vodafone, and Fried,
Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson, U.S. tax counsel to AirTouch, respectively,
as to all of the material U.S. Federal income tax consequences of the internal
reorganization and the merger. As used herein, a "U.S. holder" means a
beneficial owner of an AirTouch share or option to acquire an AirTouch share who
is treated as a United States person for U.S. federal income tax purposes. This
discussion does not address all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation or
United Kingdom taxation that may be relevant to AirTouch stockholders in light
of their particular circumstances, or to stockholders who are subject to special
provisions of U.S. federal income tax law. In addition, this discussion is
limited to stockholders who hold AirTouch shares as capital assets and who will
hold Vodafone AirTouch shares as capital assets. See "--Qualifications," below.
The opinions of counsel are based upon
- a private letter ruling, dated April 12, 1999, that Vodafone and AirTouch
received from the U.S. Internal Revenue Service addressing certain issues
under Section 367(a)(1) of the U.S. tax code, a copy of which is attached
as Exhibit 99(d) to the registration statement of which this document
forms a part,
- factual representations of Vodafone and AirTouch contained in certificates
signed by officers of Vodafone and AirTouch, copies of which are attached
to the tax opinions included as Exhibits 8(a) and 8(b) to the registration
statement, and
- the assumption that the merger and internal reorganization will be
completed according to the terms of the merger agreements.
UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES TO U.S. HOLDERS OF AIRTOUCH COMMON
STOCK AND AIRTOUCH CLASS B PREFERRED STOCK
The internal reorganization will not be a taxable event to U.S. holders of
AirTouch common stock or AirTouch Class B preferred stock. U.S. holders of
AirTouch common stock or AirTouch Class B preferred stock will therefore not
recognize any gain or loss in connection with the internal reorganization.
The merger will be a tax-free reorganization for U.S. federal income tax
purposes. Accordingly, U.S. holders of AirTouch common stock, including U.S.
holders of AirTouch Class B preferred stock whose shares are automatically
converted into AirTouch common stock immediately prior to the effective time of
the merger, will not recognize loss, but will recognize gain in an amount equal
to the lesser of the gain realized, if any, with respect to each share of
AirTouch common stock exchanged and any cash received in exchange for the share
of AirTouch common stock. The amount of gain realized with respect to each share
of AirTouch common stock exchanged will equal the excess of the sum of the fair
market value of the portion of a Vodafone AirTouch ADS and the amount of any
cash received for the AirTouch share over the U.S. holder's tax basis in such
share. As further discussed below, different rules apply to cash received in
lieu of fractional shares and to any stockholder of AirTouch who will own,
actually or constructively, at least five percent of Vodafone AirTouch by vote
or value immediately after the merger.
Subject to the following sentence, any recognized gain will be capital gain,
and will be long-term capital gain with respect to AirTouch common stock held
for more than 12 months at the effective time
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of the merger. However, the gain could be treated as dividend income to an
AirTouch shareholder who either will exercise some control with respect to
corporate affairs or will own, actually or constructively, more than a very
small percentage interest in Vodafone AirTouch.
The tax basis of each Vodafone AirTouch ADS received in the merger will
equal the tax basis of the AirTouch common stock exchanged therefor, increased
by the amount of gain (including any gain that is treated like a dividend)
recognized with respect to the exchange of those shares, decreased by the basis
of any portion of those exchanged shares converted into cash in lieu of a
fractional Vodafone AirTouch ADS, and further decreased by the amount of cash
received with respect to those exchanged shares (other than cash received in
lieu of a fractional Vodafone AirTouch ADS). The holding period of the Vodafone
AirTouch ADSs will include the holding period of the AirTouch common stock
exchanged therefor.
If a U.S. holder of AirTouch common stock receives cash in lieu of a
fractional Vodafone AirTouch ADS, the cash amount will be treated as received in
exchange for the fractional Vodafone AirTouch ADS. Subject to the rule discussed
above with respect to gain recognized in the merger, the difference between the
cash amount received for the fractional Vodafone AirTouch ADS and the proportion
of the U.S. holder's tax basis in AirTouch common stock exchanged and allocable
to the fractional Vodafone AirTouch ADS will be capital gain or loss. The
capital gain or loss will be long-term capital gain or loss with respect to
shares of AirTouch common stock held for more than 12 months at the effective
time of the merger.
AN AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDER WHO WILL OWN, ACTUALLY OR CONSTRUCTIVELY, AT LEAST
FIVE PERCENT OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH BY VOTE OR VALUE IMMEDIATELY AFTER THE MERGER
WILL QUALIFY FOR NON-RECOGNITION TREATMENT AS DESCRIBED HEREIN ONLY IF THE
SHAREHOLDER FILES A "GAIN RECOGNITION AGREEMENT" WITH THE IRS. ANY SUCH
SHAREHOLDER IS URGED TO CONSULT WITH HIS OR HER TAX ADVISOR CONCERNING THE
DECISION TO FILE A "GAIN RECOGNITION AGREEMENT" AND THE PROCEDURES TO BE
FOLLOWED IN CONNECTION WITH THAT FILING.
UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES TO U.S. HOLDERS OF AIRTOUCH CLASS
C PREFERRED STOCK
UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE INTERNAL REORGANIZATION
TO U.S. HOLDERS OF AIRTOUCH CLASS C PREFERRED STOCK
The internal reorganization will be a recapitalization to holders of
AirTouch Class C preferred stock unless the AirTouch Class C preferred stock is
not considered "nonqualified preferred stock" within the meaning of Section
351(g) of the U.S. tax code prior to the internal reorganization and is
considered nonqualified preferred stock after the internal reorganization.
Nonqualified preferred stock is stock which, among other things, does not
participate in corporate growth to any significant extent. Although the matter
is not free from doubt, it is the opinion of tax counsel to AirTouch and
Vodafone that it is reasonable for a holder of AirTouch Class C preferred stock
to take the position that the AirTouch Class C preferred stock does participate
in corporate growth to some significant extent both prior to, and subsequent to,
the internal reorganization because:
- the AirTouch Class C preferred stock participates on an as-converted basis
with the AirTouch common stock on a liquidation of AirTouch after certain
preferences have been satisfied, and
- the AirTouch Class C preferred stock is convertible into AirTouch common
stock both presently and immediately after the internal reorganization.
Therefore, although the matter is not free from doubt, it is the opinion of
tax counsel to AirTouch and Vodafone that it is reasonable for a holder of
AirTouch Class C preferred stock to take the position that the internal
reorganization is tax-free to the holder.
However, subsequent to the merger, and shortly after the internal
reorganization, the AirTouch Class C preferred stock will not be convertible
into AirTouch common stock but instead will be convertible into Vodafone
AirTouch ADSs. A right to convert stock into stock of a corporation other
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than the issuer thereof (for example, stock of a parent corporation) is not
considered to constitute participation in corporate growth to any significant
extent. Accordingly, by reason of the short period of time between the internal
reorganization and the merger, it is possible that the IRS will successfully
assert that the conversion rights should not be considered to provide holders of
AirTouch Class C preferred stock participation in corporate growth. Further,
there is no authority directly addressing whether liquidation rights like the
liquidation rights attaching to the AirTouch Class C preferred stock would be
considered to constitute participation in corporate growth to any significant
extent for this purpose or otherwise addressing the treatment of shares such as
the AirTouch Class C preferred stock for this purpose. Accordingly, there can be
no assurance that the IRS will not successfully assert that the internal
reorganization is taxable, in whole or in part, to U.S. holders of AirTouch
Class C preferred stock.
UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER TO U.S. HOLDERS
OF AIRTOUCH CLASS C PREFERRED STOCK
The merger will not be a taxable event to U.S. holders of AirTouch Class C
preferred stock. U.S. holders of AirTouch Class C preferred stock will therefore
not recognize any gain or loss in connection with the merger.
CONVERSION OR REDEMPTION OF AIRTOUCH CLASS C PREFERRED STOCK SUBSEQUENT TO
THE MERGER
The conversion or redemption of AirTouch Class C preferred stock into, or
for, Vodafone AirTouch ADSs following completion of the merger will be taxable
to U.S. holders of AirTouch Class C preferred stock, except if the AirTouch
Class C preferred stock so converted is considered exchanged in the merger
transaction within the meaning of the reorganization provisions of the U.S. tax
code. Accordingly, unless the foregoing exemption applies, a U.S. holder will
recognize capital gain or loss equal to the excess, if any, of the aggregate
fair market value of the Vodafone AirTouch ADSs and any cash received in the
conversion or redemption over the aggregate tax basis of the AirTouch Class C
preferred stock converted or redeemed. AirTouch is expected to have the right to
redeem AirTouch Class C preferred stock not previously converted into AirTouch
common stock or exchanged for Vodafone AirTouch ADSs beginning September 20,
1999 for the consideration receivable in the merger by a holder of AirTouch
common stock having a value of fifty dollars.
A U.S. HOLDER OF AIRTOUCH CLASS C PREFERRED STOCK THAT PRIOR TO COMPLETION
OF THE INTERNAL REORGANIZATION EXERCISES ITS RIGHT TO CONVERT ITS AIRTOUCH CLASS
C PREFERRED STOCK INTO AIRTOUCH COMMON STOCK WILL NOT RECOGNIZE GAIN OR LOSS AS
A RESULT OF THE CONVERSION OR THE INTERNAL REORGANIZATION. FOLLOWING CONVERSION,
A U.S. HOLDER WILL BE SUBJECT TO THE TREATMENT DESCRIBED HEREIN WITH RESPECT TO
U.S. HOLDERS OF AIRTOUCH COMMON STOCK. EACH U.S. HOLDER OF AIRTOUCH CLASS C
PREFERRED STOCK IS THEREFORE STRONGLY URGED TO CONSIDER WHETHER, PRIOR TO THE
INTERNAL REORGANIZATION, THE U.S. HOLDER SHOULD CONVERT ITS SHARES OF AIRTOUCH
CLASS C PREFERRED STOCK INTO AIRTOUCH COMMON STOCK.
UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES TO U.S. HOLDERS OF EMPLOYEE STOCK
OPTIONS
The exchange pursuant to the merger by a U.S. holder of an option to acquire
a share of AirTouch common stock received as compensation for services for an
option to acquire Vodafone AirTouch shares will not be taxable for U.S. federal
income tax purposes. A U.S. holder of an option to acquire a share of AirTouch
common stock or, after the merger, of an option to acquire a Vodafone AirTouch
share, who received the option as compensation for services and who exercises
the option will, subject to the discussion below, recognize ordinary income for
U.S. federal income tax purposes in an amount equal to the excess of the fair
market value on the exercise date of the stock received pursuant to such
exercise over the price paid for that stock pursuant to the option. A U.S.
holder's basis in stock received pursuant to the exercise of such an option will
equal the fair market value of the stock on the exercise date. Thereafter, the
U.S. holder will be subject to the rules discussed above with respect to
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U.S. holders of AirTouch common stock or discussed below with respect to U.S.
holders of Vodafone AirTouch shares. The foregoing discussion does not address
the U.S. federal income tax consequences of the exercise of any option that is
treated as an incentive stock option within the meaning of section 422(b) of the
U.S. tax code. Any U.S. holder of an option that is treated as an incentive
stock option is urged to consult his or her own tax advisor concerning the
consequences to him or her of the merger and exercise of the option.
UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES TO DISSENTING STOCKHOLDERS
Subject to the discussion below, a U.S. holder who exercises the holder's
right to dissent from the merger will recognize gain or loss on the exchange of
the holder's AirTouch stock for cash in an amount equal to the difference
between the amount of cash received (other than amounts, if any, which are or
are deemed to be interest for federal income tax purposes, which amounts will be
taxed as ordinary income) and the holder's basis in its AirTouch stock, and the
gain or loss will be capital gain or loss if the AirTouch shares were held as
capital assets at the effective time of the merger. The capital gain or loss
will be long-term capital gain or loss with respect to AirTouch stock held for
more than 12 months at that time. A dissenting stockholder may be required to
recognize any resulting gain or loss in the year the merger closes, irrespective
of whether the dissenting stockholder actually receives payment for his or her
shares in that year. In some instances, cash received by a dissenting AirTouch
stockholder could be taxed as a dividend if the stockholder actually or
constructively owns Vodafone AirTouch ADSs immediately after the merger.
TAX OPINIONS AND PRIVATE LETTER RULING
It is a waivable condition to the merger that at the closing Vodafone and
AirTouch each receive a tax opinion from its tax counsel that the merger
qualifies as a reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the U.S.
tax code and that the merger will be tax-free to the U.S. holders of AirTouch
stock, except with respect to cash received. These opinions will be based upon
updated representations of Vodafone and Airtouch contained in certificates
signed by officers of Vodafone and AirTouch to be delivered at the time of the
merger, the private letter ruling addressing issues under Section 367(a)(1) of
the U.S. tax code and the assumptions noted in the opinions. These opinions are
in addition to the opinions filed with the registration statement of which this
document forms a part. Neither AirTouch nor Vodafone will seek any other ruling
from the IRS as to the U.S. federal income tax treatment of the merger.
The private letter ruling that Vodafone and AirTouch have received from the
IRS is based on the facts and representations contained in the request for the
private letter ruling. While generally binding on the IRS, the private letter
ruling may be retroactively revoked or modified by the IRS if there has been a
misstatement or omission of material facts, the facts at the time of merger are
materially different from the facts upon which the private letter ruling is
based, the representations upon which the private letter ruling is based are
incomplete or untrue in a material respect or there has been a change in
applicable law.
The merger agreement permits each of Vodafone and AirTouch to waive the
receipt of its counsel's opinion as a condition to its obligation to consummate
the merger. AirTouch will not waive this condition without first recirculating
revised proxy materials and resoliciting the vote of the AirTouch stockholders.
The tax opinions will not be binding on the IRS or a court and will not preclude
the IRS or a court from adopting a contrary position.
UNITED STATES FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE OWNERSHIP OF VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH ORDINARY SHARES AND VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ADSS
For United States federal income tax purposes, U.S. holders of Vodafone
AirTouch ADSs will be treated as the owners of the underlying ordinary shares
that are represented by Vodafone AirTouch
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ADSs, and deposits and withdrawals of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares by U.S.
holders in exchange for Vodafone AirTouch ADSs will not be subject to United
States federal income tax.
TAXATION OF DIVIDENDS
Dividends paid to a U.S. holder by Vodafone AirTouch with respect to the
Vodafone AirTouch shares will be taxable as ordinary income to the U.S. holder
for U.S. federal income tax purposes to the extent paid out of Vodafone
AirTouch's current or accumulated earnings and profits, as determined for United
States federal income tax purposes, based on the U.S. dollar value of the
dividend on the date the dividend is actually or constructively received by the
depositary, in the case of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs, or by the U.S. holder, in the
case of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares, calculated by reference to the
exchange rate on the relevant date.
Under the U.K.-U.S. tax treaty a beneficial owner of a Vodafone AirTouch
share and of any cash dividend paid with respect thereto who is a United States
person for U.S. federal income tax purposes and who is eligible for benefits
under the U.K.-U.S. tax treaty with respect to income derived in connection with
such shares (each such holder referred to as an eligible U.S. holder) who
receives a dividend from Vodafone AirTouch may be entitled to a foreign tax
credit for United Kingdom tax withheld. If an eligible U.S. holder is so
entitled, the foreign tax credit would be equal to one-ninth of any dividend
received and would give rise to additional dividend income in the same amount.
Eligible U.S. holders that do not elect, or are not permitted, to claim a
foreign tax credit may be entitled to claim a deduction for foreign tax
withheld. By reason, in part, of recent amendments to the relevant provisions of
United Kingdom tax law, the United States and the United Kingdom have entered
into negotiations of a new income tax treaty. EACH U.S. HOLDER IS URGED TO
CONSULT HIS OR HER TAX ADVISOR CONCERNING WHETHER THE U.S. HOLDER IS ELIGIBLE
FOR BENEFITS UNDER THE U.K.-U.S. TAX TREATY AND WHETHER, AND TO WHAT EXTENT, A
FOREIGN TAX CREDIT OR DEDUCTION WILL BE AVAILABLE WITH RESPECT TO DIVIDENDS
RECEIVED FROM VODAFONE AIRTOUCH.
Each eligible U.S. holder that relies on the U.K.-U.S. tax treaty should
consider disclosing this reliance on the eligible U.S. holder's U.S. federal
income tax return. A U.S. holder that fails to disclose reliance on a treaty
where disclosure is required would be subject to penalties under United States
federal income tax law.
Distributions by Vodafone AirTouch in excess of current and accumulated
earnings and profits, as determined for U.S. federal income tax purposes, will
be treated as a return of capital to the extent of the eligible U.S. holder's
basis in its Vodafone AirTouch shares and thereafter as capital gain. Dividends
paid by Vodafone AirTouch will not be eligible for the dividends-received
deduction allowed to U.S. corporations in respect of dividends received from
other U.S. corporations. U.S. holders should consult their own tax advisors
regarding the treatment of any foreign currency gain or loss on any pounds
sterling received on the Vodafone AirTouch shares which are not converted into
U.S. dollars on the date the pounds sterling are actually or constructively
received by the depositary, in the case of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs, or by the
U.S. holder, in the case of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares. For foreign tax
credit limitation purposes, dividends paid by Vodafone AirTouch will be income
from sources outside of the United States.
It is possible that, after the merger, Vodafone AirTouch will be at least
50% owned by persons treated as United States persons under the U.S. tax code.
Under Section 904(g) of the U.S. tax code, dividends paid by a non-U.S.
corporation that is at least 50% owned by U.S. persons may be treated as U.S.
source income rather than non-U.S. source income for foreign tax credit purposes
to the extent the non-U.S. corporation has more than an insignificant amount of
U.S. source income. The effect of this rule may be to treat a portion of the
dividends paid by Vodafone AirTouch as United States source income. Such
treatment may adversely affect an eligible U.S. holder's ability to use foreign
tax credits. Section 904(g)(10) of the U.S. tax code permits an eligible U.S.
holder to elect to treat Vodafone
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AirTouch dividends as non-U.S. source income for foreign tax credit limitation
purposes if the dividend income is separated from other income items for
purposes of calculating the holder's foreign tax credit.
TAXATION OF CAPITAL GAINS
Upon a sale or other disposition of Vodafone AirTouch shares, a U.S. holder
will recognize gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes in an amount
equal to the difference between the U.S. dollar value of the amount realized and
the U.S. holder's tax basis, determined in U.S. dollars, in the Vodafone
AirTouch shares. Gain or loss recognized will be long-term capital gain or loss
with respect to Vodafone AirTouch shares held for more than 12 months at the
time of the sale or other disposition and any gain recognized generally will be
income from sources within the U.S. for foreign tax credit limitation purposes.
A U.S. holder that is liable for both U.S. federal income tax and United Kingdom
tax on a sale or other disposition of Vodafone AirTouch shares should consult
with his or her tax advisor to determine the U.S. holder's entitlement to credit
the United Kingdom tax against the U.S. holder's United States federal income
tax liability.
BACKUP WITHHOLDING AND INFORMATION REPORTING
The relevant paying agents for the Vodafone AirTouch shares must comply with
information reporting requirements in connection with dividend payments or other
taxable distributions made with respect to Vodafone AirTouch shares within the
U.S. to a non-corporate United States person. In addition, "backup withholding"
at the rate of 31% will apply to these payments unless the holder or beneficial
owner provides an accurate taxpayer identification number in the manner required
by U.S. law and applicable regulations, certifies that the holder or beneficial
owner is not subject to backup withholding, and the holder or beneficial owner
otherwise complies with applicable requirements of the backup withholding rules.
Payment of the proceeds from the sale of Vodafone AirTouch shares to or
through a U.S. office of a broker is subject to both U.S. backup withholding and
information reporting requirements, unless the holder or beneficial owner
certifies its non-U.S. status under penalties of perjury or otherwise
establishes an exemption as described in the preceding paragraph. In general,
neither U.S. backup withholding nor information reporting will apply to a
payment made outside the United States of the proceeds of a sale of Vodafone
AirTouch shares through an office outside the United States of a non-U.S.
broker. Special rules may require information reporting in the case of payments
made outside the U.S. of the proceeds of the sale of Vodafone AirTouch shares
through a U.S. broker.
Amounts withheld under the backup withholding rules may be credited against
a U.S. holder's United States federal income tax liability, and a holder may
obtain a refund of any excess amounts withheld under the backup withholding
rules by filing the appropriate claim for refund with the IRS.
QUALIFICATIONS
As noted above, the foregoing discussion does not address all aspects of
U.S. federal income taxation or United Kingdom taxation that may be relevant to
all AirTouch stockholders in light of their particular circumstances. For
instance, the discussion does not address all aspects of U.S. federal income
taxation or United Kingdom taxation to stockholders that are resident, or, in
the case of an individual stockholder, ordinarily resident, in the United
Kingdom, stockholders who conduct a trade or business in the United Kingdom
through a permanent establishment situated therein, or who perform independent
personal services from a fixed base situated therein, and, in either case, to
which holding of AirTouch stock is effectively connected.
In addition, the foregoing discussion does not address all aspects of U.S.
federal income taxation or United Kingdom taxation that may be relevant to
stockholders who are subject to special provisions
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of U.S. federal income tax law. For example, the discussion does not address all
aspects of U.S. federal income taxation or United Kingdom taxation that may be
relevant to:
- stockholders liable for alternative minimum tax,
- stockholders that actually or constructively will own 10% or more by vote
and value of the outstanding stock of Vodafone,
- stockholders that hold their stock as part of a straddle, hedge, synthetic
security, conversion transaction or other integrated investment composed
of AirTouch shares and one or more other investments,
- stockholders whose "functional currency" is not the U.S. dollar,
- financial institutions,
- insurance companies,
- tax-exempt organizations,
- traders in securities that elect mark-to-market accounting treatment, or
- broker-dealers.
Further, this discussion does not address the U.S. federal income tax
consequences of the merger or the internal reorganization to holders of AirTouch
Class D or Class E preferred stock, or U.S. state or local taxation or taxation
by countries other than the United States and the United Kingdom.
The foregoing discussion is based on existing U.S. federal income and U.K.
tax law, including legislation, administrative rulings and court decisions, as
well as on the U.K.-U.S. tax treaty, all as in effect on the date of this proxy
statement/prospectus, all of which are subject to change, or changes in
interpretation, possibly with retroactive effect. In particular, the United
States and the United Kingdom have entered into negotiations of a new U.K.-U.S.
income tax treaty. The foregoing discussion is further based, in part, upon the
representations of the depositary and the assumption that each obligation in the
deposit agreement relating to Vodafone AirTouch ADSs and any related agreement
will be performed in accordance with its terms.
Finally, Vodafone believes that it is not a "passive foreign investment
company" for U.S. federal income tax purposes within the meaning of Section
1297(a) of the U.S. tax code and the foregoing discussion so assumes.
EACH AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDER IS ADVISED TO CONSULT HIS OR HER OWN TAX ADVISOR
AS TO THE U.S. FEDERAL INCOME TAX CONSEQUENCES AND UNITED KINGDOM TAX
CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER, THE INTERNAL REORGANIZATION, AND THE OWNERSHIP AND
DISPOSITION OF THE VODAFONE AIRTOUCH SHARES TO HIM OR HER, IN EACH CASE IN LIGHT
OF THE FACTS AND CIRCUMSTANCES THAT MAY BE UNIQUE TO HIM OR HER, AND AS TO ANY
U.S. ESTATE, GIFT, STATE, LOCAL OR NON-U.S. AND NON-UNITED KINGDOM TAX
CONSEQUENCES OF THE MERGER AND THE INTERNAL REORGANIZATION.
UNITED KINGDOM TAX CONSEQUENCES OF THE OWNERSHIP OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ORDINARY
SHARES AND VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ADSS
TAXATION OF DISTRIBUTIONS
A U.S. holder who receives a dividend from Vodafone AirTouch will not have
any further U.K. tax to pay in respect of the dividend but will not be able to
claim any payment in respect of the dividend under the U.K.-U.S. tax treaty. See
"United States Federal Income Tax Consequences of the Ownership of Vodafone
AirTouch Ordinary Shares and Vodafone AirTouch ADSs--Taxation of Dividends."
TAXATION OF CAPITAL GAINS
A U.S. holder who is neither resident nor ordinarily resident for tax
purposes in the U.K. will not normally be liable for U.K. tax on capital gains
realized on the disposal of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary
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shares or Vodafone AirTouch ADSs. However, this will not apply if at the time of
the disposal, the U.S. holder carries on a trade, which for this purpose
includes a profession or vocation, in the U.K. through a branch or agency and
the disposed Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares or Vodafone AirTouch ADSs are or
have been used in or for the purposes of that trade or are or have been used or
held by or for the purposes of the branch or agency. An individual U.S. holder
who is only temporarily not resident in the U.K. may, under anti-avoidance
legislation, still be liable for U.K. tax on capital gains realized, subject to
any available exemption or relief.
INHERITANCE AND GIFT TAXES
Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares and Vodafone AirTouch ADSs are assets
situated in the U.K. for the purposes of U.K. inheritance tax. A gift of these
assets by, or the death of, an individual holder may, subject to certain
exemptions and reliefs, give rise to a liability to U.K. inheritance tax even if
the holder is neither domiciled in the U.K. nor deemed to be domiciled there
under special rules relating to long residence or previous domicile. For U.K.
inheritance tax purposes, a transfer of assets at less than full market value
may be treated as a gift and particular rules apply to gifts where the donor
reserves or retains some benefit. Special rules also apply to close companies
and to trustees of settlements holding Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares or
Vodafone AirTouch ADSs, bringing them within the charge to inheritance tax. An
individual who is domiciled in the U.S. for the purposes of the U.K.-U.S. estate
and gift tax convention and who is not a national of the U.K. for the purposes
of the U.K.-U.S. estate and gift tax convention will generally not be subject to
U.K. inheritance tax in respect of the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares or
Vodafone AirTouch ADSs on the individual's death or on a gift of the Vodafone
AirTouch ordinary shares or Vodafone AirTouch ADSs during the individual's
lifetime, provided that any applicable U.S. federal gift or estate tax liability
is paid, unless the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares or Vodafone AirTouch ADSs
are part of the business property of a permanent establishment of an enterprise
of the individual in the U.K. or pertain to a fixed base in the U.K. of the
individual used for the performance of independent personal services. Where a
settlor who, at the time of settlement, was a U.S. holder has placed Vodafone
AirTouch ordinary shares or Vodafone AirTouch ADSs in trust, the Vodafone
AirTouch ordinary shares or Vodafone AirTouch ADSs will generally not be subject
to U.K. inheritance tax if the settlor, at the time of settlement, was domiciled
in the U.S. for the purposes of the U.K.-U.S. estate and gift tax convention and
was not a U.K. national, provided that the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares or
Vodafone AirTouch ADSs are not part of the business property of a permanent
establishment in the U.K. and do not pertain to a fixed base in the U.K., as
more fully summarized above.
In the exceptional case where the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares or
Vodafone AirTouch ADSs are subject both to U.K. inheritance tax and to U.S.
federal gift or estate tax, the estate and gift tax convention generally
provides for the tax paid in the U.K. to be credited against tax paid in the
U.S. or for tax paid in the U.S. to be credited against tax payable in the U.K.
based on priority rules set out in the estate and gift tax convention.
STAMP DUTY AND STAMP DUTY RESERVE TAX
Vodafone and AirTouch will be jointly and severally liable for all stamp
duties, stamp duty reserve tax and similar taxes and governmental levies imposed
in connection with the issuance or creation of the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary
shares constituting the stock consideration and any Vodafone AirTouch ADSs in
connection therewith and any U.K. stamp duty, stamp duty reserve tax or similar
governmental charge, or any interest or penalties thereon, that may be payable
by Vodafone, AirTouch or, after the merger, Vodafone AirTouch pursuant to the
deposit agreement relating to the ADSs. See "DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH
AMERICAN DEPOSITARY SHARES--Payment of Taxes."
No stamp duty will be payable on the acquisition or transfer of Vodafone
AirTouch ADSs or beneficial ownership of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs, provided that
any instrument of transfer is not
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executed in the U.K. and provided further that the instrument of transfer is not
brought into the U.K. An agreement for the transfer of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs or
beneficial ownership of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs will not give rise to a liability
for stamp duty reserve tax.
A transfer for value of the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares will generally
be subject to AD VALOREM stamp duty or to stamp duty reserve tax. Stamp duty
will arise on the execution of an instrument to transfer Vodafone AirTouch
ordinary shares. Stamp duty reserve tax will arise on the entry into an
agreement to transfer Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares but the charge may be
canceled if stamp duty has been paid. Stamp duty and stamp duty reserve tax are
normally a liability of the purchaser. Any transfer for value of the underlying
Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares represented by Vodafone AirTouch ADSs may give
rise to a liability on the transferee to U.K. stamp duty or stamp duty reserve
tax. The rate of stamp duty payable is 50p per L100, or part of L100, and 0.5%
of the consideration in the case of stamp duty reserve tax. On a transfer of
Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares from the custodian of the depositary to a
holder of a Vodafone AirTouch ADS upon cancellation of the Vodafone AirTouch
ADS, only a fixed stamp duty of 50p per instrument of transfer is currently
payable. However, the U.K. government has announced that it intends to increase
this fixed duty to L5 and to require the rounding up of AD VALOREM stamp duty to
the next multiple of L5 (if the duty is not already a multiple of L5), effective
October 1, 1999.
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THE MERGER AGREEMENT
The following description of the merger agreement describes the material
terms of the agreement but does not purport to describe all the terms of the
agreement. The complete text of the merger agreement is attached to this proxy
statement/prospectus as Appendix A and is incorporated by reference herein. All
shareholders are urged to read the merger agreement in its entirety because it
is the legal document that governs the merger.
THE MERGER
Pursuant to the merger agreement, Apollo Merger Sub, Inc., a Delaware
corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of Vodafone, will merge into AirTouch,
with AirTouch surviving as a subsidiary of Vodafone.
The merger will become effective when Vodafone and AirTouch file the
certificate of merger with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware or at
a later time if so specified in the certificate of merger. The merger is
expected to become effective on the same day as the closing of the merger, which
will take place either as soon as practicable after the conditions described in
the merger agreement have been satisfied or waived or on another date agreed
upon by Vodafone and AirTouch.
THE INTERNAL REORGANIZATION
Before the Vodafone/AirTouch merger takes place, AirTouch will cause the
internal reorganization to occur, in which
- AirTouch Merger Sub, Inc., a newly-formed Delaware corporation and a
wholly owned subsidiary of AirTouch, will merge into AirTouch, with
AirTouch being the surviving corporation, and
- amendments will be made to the certificates of designation of the AirTouch
Class C, Class D and Class E preferred stock.
For more details on the effects of the internal reorganization, see "THE
INTERNAL REORGANIZATION" beginning on page 59.
CONSIDERATION TO BE RECEIVED IN THE MERGER
At the time the merger becomes effective:
- each share of AirTouch common stock outstanding, except for the shares
owned by Vodafone, AirTouch, or any of their subsidiaries or any holder
who properly exercises his appraisal rights, will be converted into
(1) five (5) Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares, which will be delivered in
the form of 0.5 of a Vodafone AirTouch ADS, and
(2) $9.00 in cash, without interest.
- each share of AirTouch owned by Vodafone, AirTouch, or any of their
subsidiaries will automatically be canceled without the payment of any
consideration;
- each AirTouch option outstanding and unexercised will be converted into
the specific rights described on page 79 under "--Stock Options and Other
Employee Benefits;"
- each share of common stock of Apollo Merger Sub outstanding will be
canceled; and
- AirTouch will issue to Vodafone the number of shares of AirTouch common
stock equal to the number of shares of AirTouch common stock converted in
the merger.
TREATMENT OF PREFERRED STOCK
Immediately prior to the merger, according to the Class B certificate of
designation
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- each outstanding share of AirTouch Class B preferred stock will convert
automatically into AirTouch common stock at the exchange ratio set forth
in the Class B certificate of designation, which is 0.806 shares of
AirTouch common stock per share of AirTouch Class B preferred stock,
subject to anti-dilution adjustments, and
- all dividends accrued through the date of conversion and unpaid on the
shares of AirTouch Class B preferred stock, other than previously declared
dividends payable to the holder of record on a prior date, whether or not
declared, will be due and payable in cash out of funds of AirTouch after
the internal reorganization.
The shares of AirTouch common stock issuable upon conversion of the Class B
preferred stock will then be converted into and canceled in exchange for
Vodafone AirTouch ADSs and cash as described above in "--Consideration to Be
Received in the Merger."
Each share of Class C preferred stock of AirTouch outstanding immediately
prior to the merger will remain outstanding as a share of Class C preferred
stock of AirTouch after the merger. Each share of AirTouch Class C preferred
stock will, after the merger, be subject to conversion or redemption, at the
election of the holder of the AirTouch Class C preferred stock, in accordance
with the terms set forth in Section 4(e) of the Class C certificate of
designation. According to their terms, the shares of Class C preferred stock are
expected to be redeemable beginning on September 20, 1999 for the merger
consideration that such holder would have received had he held that number of
shares of AirTouch common stock issuable upon a redemption of his AirTouch Class
C preferred stock immediately prior to the merger. After the merger, each share
of Class C preferred stock will be convertible into the merger consideration
that would have been received by a holder of 1.379 shares of AirTouch common
stock.
Each share of Class D and Class E preferred stock of AirTouch outstanding
immediately prior to the merger, other than shares owned by any holder who
properly exercises his appraisal rights, will remain outstanding as a share of
AirTouch Class D preferred stock or AirTouch Class E preferred stock,
respectively, after the merger.
EXCHANGE OF AIRTOUCH COMMON STOCK
Vodafone has appointed Equiserve Limited Partnership as the exchange agent
who will exchange certificates which, before the merger, represent outstanding
shares of AirTouch common stock and, in the merger, will be converted into the
right to receive Vodafone AirTouch ADSs, and the cash consideration. Promptly
after the merger takes place, AirTouch or the exchange agent will mail to each
record holder of AirTouch common stock holding a certificate a letter of
transmittal for use in effecting delivery of the AirTouch common stock to the
exchange agent.
Vodafone will issue the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares as the stock
consideration in registered form to Equiserve Limited Partnership as nominee and
agent for the record holders. If the redenomination of the Vodafone ordinary
share capital takes effect immediately prior to the merger, then, unless the
directors of Vodafone determine not to issue bearer shares, Vodafone will
(1) strike the name of the nominee from the Vodafone shareholders' register,
(2) create bearer shares with respect to the Vodafone ordinary shares; and
(3) deliver the bearer shares to the nominee for delivery to the depositary
in order for it to issue the Vodafone AirTouch ADSs to holders of AirTouch
common stock.
The fact that the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares underlying the Vodafone
AirTouch ADSs may be evidenced by bearer shares will not affect the rights of
Vodafone AirTouch ADS holders to receive Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares
registered in their name upon any withdrawal of those shares in accordance with
the terms of the deposit agreement governing the rights of Vodafone AirTouch
ADSs. Holders of AirTouch common stock will not be liable for any charges in
connection
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with the receipt of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs representing bearer shares. See
"DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH AMERICAN DEPOSITARY SHARES."
Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares issued in connection with the merger which
are in registered form will be registered in the name of The Bank of New York,
as depositary. Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares issued in connection with the
merger which are bearer shares will be held by The Bank of New York or its
nominee. In addition, Vodafone will periodically deposit cash in an amount
sufficient to provide the exchange agent with funds to make the cash payments
required to be made under the merger agreement.
After delivering AirTouch certificates and a signed transmittal letter to
the exchange agent or, in the case of AirTouch common stock held through the
AirTouch Direct Purchase and Sale Plan program or through The Depository Trust
Company, without further action by the holder, each holder of AirTouch common
stock will be entitled to receive in exchange for the AirTouch certificates:
- the number of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs that the holder has the right to
receive as stock consideration, and
- a check in the amount, after giving effect to any required tax
withholdings, of
(1) the cash consideration that the holder has the right to receive,
(2) cash in lieu of fractional Vodafone AirTouch ADSs on the terms
described below plus
(3) any cash dividends or other distributions that the holder has the
right to receive, including dividends or distributions payable with
respect to the holder's Vodafone AirTouch ADSs with a record date
after the merger and a payment date on or prior to the date of the
surrender and not previously paid.
AirTouch certificates that are surrendered will be canceled. No interest
will be paid or accrued on any amount payable upon surrender of the share
certificates. No holder of an unsurrendered AirTouch certificate will receive
any dividends or other distributions with respect to Vodafone AirTouch ADSs to
which it is entitled under the merger agreement until the AirTouch certificate
registered to the holder is surrendered to the exchange agent.
The depositary will not issue fractional ADSs in connection with the merger.
Instead, each holder of shares of AirTouch common stock exchanged in the merger
who would otherwise have received a fraction of a Vodafone AirTouch ADS will
receive cash, without interest, in an amount equal to the holder's proportionate
interest in the net proceeds from the sale on the NYSE by the exchange agent on
behalf of all holders of all fractional Vodafone AirTouch ADSs that the
depositary would otherwise issue in the merger. Vodafone will pay all
commissions, transfer taxes and out-of-pocket costs, including the expenses and
compensation of the exchange agent, incurred in connection with the sale of
fractional Vodafone AirTouch ADSs.
In order for a person who is not a registered holder of the AirTouch common
stock represented by an AirTouch certificate to have that certificate exchanged
under the merger, he must
- ensure that the certificate surrendered is properly endorsed and in proper
form for transfer and
- pay the exchange agent any transfer or other taxes required or establish
to the satisfaction of the exchange agent that all taxes have been paid or
are not payable.
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
The merger agreement contains a number of customary representations and
warranties made by Vodafone and AirTouch regarding, among other things, due
organization, good standing and qualification; capital structure; corporate
authority to enter into the contemplated transactions and lack of conflicts with
corporate governance documents; governmental filings; reports and financial
statements; absence of certain changes or events; litigation and liabilities;
brokers or finders; ownership of the other party's common stock; assets;
licenses; intellectual property; year 2000 compliance; joint
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ventures and tax matters. AirTouch has also represented that it has taken or
will take all actions appropriate and necessary to ensure that provisions of the
Delaware General Corporation Law limiting business combinations will not affect
the merger or any other transaction contemplated by the merger agreement and
that neither Vodafone nor AirTouch will have any obligations under AirTouch's
stockholder rights plan and that the holders of those rights will not have any
rights under the stockholder rights plan.
The merger agreement also contains customary representations and warranties
of Vodafone regarding Apollo Merger Sub, Inc., including its corporate authority
to enter into the contemplated transactions and absence of previous business
activities.
CONDUCT OF BUSINESS PENDING THE MERGER; OTHER ACTIONS
During the period from the signing of the merger agreement until the merger
becomes effective, each of Vodafone and AirTouch has agreed as to itself and its
subsidiaries, unless the other party approves otherwise in writing, among other
things, that:
- they will carry on their businesses in the ordinary course and, to the
extent practicable, will preserve its and their business organization
intact and maintain their licenses in force and maintain their existing
relations and goodwill with customers, suppliers, creditors, regulators,
lessors, employees and business associates, and
- they will not make any decision or commitment regarding a significant
investment or divestment except in the ordinary course of business or
under financial plans previously communicated to the other party, without
first consulting with the other party.
In addition, Vodafone and AirTouch have agreed that before the merger they
will not take any of the following actions outside of the parameters specified
in the merger agreement:
- declare and pay dividends or change their share capital other than, among
other things, the redenomination of ordinary share capital in the case of
Vodafone,
- issue securities,
- amend their corporate governance documents,
- incur significant debt outside the ordinary course of business, and
- modify their benefit plans and compensation of directors, officers and
employees outside of the ordinary course of business.
In addition, Vodafone and AirTouch have each agreed:
- to use reasonable best efforts to cause the merger to constitute a
reorganization under Section 368(a) of the U.S. tax code;
- to timely satisfy all applicable tax reporting and filing requirements
contained in the U.S. tax code with respect to the merger;
- to cooperate with the other between the date of the merger agreement and
the closing date, and to use reasonable efforts, to ensure that the merger
satisifies the 50% substantiality tax test under the U.S. tax code; and
- to cooperate with the other between the date of the merger agreement and
the closing date, and to use its reasonable efforts, to obtain from the
IRS the private letter ruling with respect to the merger as described in
United States Treasury regulations Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(9), and to
prepare jointly the ruling request and any communications with the IRS.
The private letter ruling was obtained on April 12, 1999.
AirTouch must also use its best efforts to cause each person who may be
considered an affiliate of AirTouch under Rule 145 of the Securities Act to
execute an agreement restricting the disposition of the affiliate's Vodafone
AirTouch ADSs received in the merger or underlying Vodafone AirTouch
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ordinary shares. Neither Vodafone AirTouch nor the depositary will register any
transfers of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares or Vodafone AirTouch ADSs by any
person who may be considered an affiliate unless the transfer is in compliance
with these restrictions.
ACQUISITION PROPOSALS
Vodafone and AirTouch each has agreed that neither it nor any of its
subsidiaries nor any of the officers and directors of it or its subsidiaries
will, and that it will direct and use its best reasonable efforts to cause its
or its subsidiaries' employees, agents and representatives not to
- solicit, encourage or facilitate any inquiries with respect to any
acquisition proposal, including a merger, reorganization, share exchange,
dual-holding company transaction, consolidation, or similar transaction
involving it or any purchase of all or any significant portion of its
equity securities or of its and its subsidiaries' assets taken as a whole;
or
- have any discussions with or provide any confidential information or data
to any person relating to, or engage in any negotiations concerning, an
acquisition proposal, or otherwise facilitate any effort or attempt to
make or implement an acquisition proposal.
However, each of Vodafone, AirTouch and their respective boards of directors has
the right to
- make any disclosure to its shareholders if, in the good faith judgment of
its board of directors, failure to do so would be inconsistent with its
obligations under applicable law;
- negotiate with or furnish information to any person who has made a bona
fide written acquisition proposal that is a superior proposal, as
described below, and that did not result from the breach of the party's
obligations not to solicit or engage in discussions or negotiations with
respect to an acquisition proposal (as described above); or
- recommend an acquisition proposal to its shareholders if the acquisition
proposal is a superior proposal.
A superior proposal is an acquisition proposal by a third party
- on terms which the board of directors of Vodafone or AirTouch, as the case
may be, determines in good faith after consultation with its financial
advisors, whose advice will be communicated to the other party, to be more
favorable from a financial point of view to its shareholders than the
merger, after giving the other party at least five business days to
respond to the acquisition proposal and
- which the board of directors of Vodafone or AirTouch, as the case may be,
determines in good faith is reasonably likely to be consummated on the
terms set forth, taking into account all legal, financial, regulatory and
other aspects of the proposal.
Each of Vodafone and AirTouch has also agreed to
- terminate any discussions or negotiations with any parties regarding
acquisition proposals that were being conducted at the time the merger
agreement was signed,
- to inform its subsidiaries and their representatives of the relevant
obligations undertaken in the merger agreement,
- to notify the other party promptly if any inquiries, proposals or requests
for information regarding an acquisition proposal are received or any
discussions or negotiations are sought and to identify the name of the
party making the inquiry, request, or proposal, and
- to promptly request that each person who executed a confidentiality
agreement with it within the 12 months prior to the date of the merger
agreement in connection with its consideration of an acquisition proposal
return or destroy all confidential information previously furnished to the
person.
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STOCK OPTIONS AND OTHER EMPLOYEE BENEFITS
In the merger, all outstanding and unexercised AirTouch stock options and
tandem stock appreciation rights, whether vested or unvested, will
- be assumed by Vodafone AirTouch,
- cease to represent a right to acquire shares of AirTouch common stock and
- be converted automatically into options to purchase, and tandem stock
appreciation rights with respect to, Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares or
Vodafone AirTouch ADSs.
Each option and tandem stock appreciation right will remain subject to the
terms of the AirTouch stock plan under which it was issued and the agreement
evidencing its grant, except that after the merger
- the number of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares, or Vodafone AirTouch
ADSs, as applicable, purchasable upon exercise of each option or subject
to a tandem stock appreciation right will be equal to the number of shares
of AirTouch common stock that were purchasable under the option or subject
to the tandem stock appreciation right immediately prior to the merger
multiplied by the exchange ratio or, in the case of Vodafone AirTouch
ADSs, one-tenth of the exchange ratio, in each case subject to any
rounding as provided for in the merger agreement, and
- the exercise price per Vodafone AirTouch ordinary share or, Vodafone
AirTouch ADSs, as applicable, under each option or tandem stock
appreciation right will be obtained by dividing
(1) the per share exercise price of each option or tandem stock
appreciation right less the per share cash consideration by
(2) the exchange ratio or, in the case of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs,
one-tenth of the exchange ratio, in each case subject to any rounding
as provided for in the merger agreement.
Notwithstanding the foregoing, the number of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary
shares and the exercise price per Vodafone AirTouch ordinary share of each
AirTouch stock option that is intended to be an "incentive stock option," as
defined in section 422 of the U.S. tax code, will be adjusted as required by
Section 424 of the U.S. tax code. Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares to be issued
upon the exercise of AirTouch stock options may, at the election of the holders
of AirTouch stock options, be delivered in the form of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs.
AirTouch has agreed that it will make all necessary arrangements with respect to
the AirTouch stock plans to permit the assumption by Vodafone of any unexercised
AirTouch stock options and tandem stock appreciation rights.
Vodafone and its subsidiaries intend to provide current and former employees
and directors of AirTouch compensation and benefit programs, including annual
and long-term incentive programs, that are competitive with those provided by
large industrial companies in the U.S. and U.K. Specifically, Vodafone AirTouch
will, and will cause its subsidiaries to
- keep in effect for one year after the merger, without any change to the
eligibility provisions and levels of benefits, the AirTouch compensation
and benefit plans in effect on the date of the merger agreement;
- recognize an employee's service prior to the merger with AirTouch, its
subsidiaries and any of their predecessor entities for all purposes,
including eligibility to participate, vesting, benefit accrual,
eligibility to commence benefits and severance, under any benefits plans
of Vodafone AirTouch or its subsidiaries in which the employee
participates, provided that this recognition of service does not result in
any duplication of benefits;
- recognize any appropriate out-of-pocket expenses of each employee of
AirTouch or its subsidiaries for purposes of determining the employee's
deductible and copayment expenses under any benefit plans of Vodafone
AirTouch;
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- waive any provisions under the benefit plans of Vodafone AirTouch which
restrict benefits by reason of pre-existing conditions; and
- honor the terms of each outstanding employment, change of control,
severance and termination agreement between AirTouch or its subsidiaries
and their directors, officers or employees, including all obligations
pertaining to bonus deferral plans, vested and accrued benefits and
similar employment and benefit arrangements.
INDEMNIFICATION AND INSURANCE
After the merger, Vodafone AirTouch will indemnify the directors and
officers of AirTouch and its subsidiaries for any losses they incur because they
acted as directors and officers of AirTouch or its subsidiaries before the
merger, as follows:
- Vodafone AirTouch will maintain all rights to indemnification and all
limitations on liability existing under the AirTouch certificate of
incorporation and the AirTouch by-laws in favor of those directors and
officers of AirTouch;
- Vodafone AirTouch will maintain all rights to indemnification and all
limitations on liability existing under any agreement between any of those
directors or officers and AirTouch or its subsidiaries;
- Vodafone AirTouch will, for a period of six years after the merger becomes
effective, indemnify those directors and officers to the same extent they
are indemnified on the date of the merger agreement; and
- Vodafone AirTouch will, for a period of six years after the merger becomes
effective, provide liability insurance for those directors and officers
for acts or omissions occurring before the effective time of the merger on
terms at least as favorable as those of any policy presently in effect.
However, during the six-year period, Vodafone AirTouch will not be
required to provide any more coverage than can be obtained for the
remainder of the period for an annual premium costing more than 150% of
the annual premium currently paid by AirTouch for its existing coverage.
DIRECTORS AND MANAGEMENT OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH FOLLOWING THE MERGER
Following the merger, the board of directors of Vodafone AirTouch will
consist of 14 persons, seven of whom Vodafone will designate, of whom three will
be non-executive directors, and seven of whom AirTouch will designate, of whom
five will be non-executive directors. These AirTouch director-designates, whose
names are listed in the section entitled "DIRECTORS AND MANAGEMENT OF VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH FOLLOWING THE MERGER," will be nominated for election by the Vodafone
shareholders and will take office when the merger becomes effective. Vodafone
has agreed to cause the resignations of the current directors of Vodafone who
will not continue as directors.
Chris Gent, the current chief executive of Vodafone, will be the chief
executive of Vodafone AirTouch and Sam Ginn, the current chairman and chief
executive officer of AirTouch, will be the non-executive chairman of Vodafone
AirTouch.
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Vodafone and AirTouch have agreed that they will appoint the following
persons to the indicated executive offices of Vodafone AirTouch:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
OFFICER POSITION
- -------------------------------------------------------- --------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C>
Christopher C. Gent..................................... Chief Executive
Peter R. Bamford........................................ Chief Executive Officer for the U.K. region
Mohan S. Gyani.......................................... Head of Corporate Strategy
Julian M. Horn-Smith.................................... Chief Executive Officer for the Europe/Africa/ Middle
East region
Kenneth J. Hydon........................................ Financial Director
Arun Sarin.............................................. Chief Executive Officer for the U.S./Asia Pacific
region; Head of Technical Strategy
</TABLE>
If any of these designated officers are unwilling or unable to serve, a
person will be designated to fill that position by mutual agreement of Vodafone
and AirTouch.
See "DIRECTORS AND MANAGEMENT OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH FOLLOWING THE MERGER" for
further information regarding the management of Vodafone AirTouch after
completion of the merger.
BAY AREA PRESENCE
For three years following the merger, Vodafone AirTouch will maintain a
significant business presence in the San Francisco Bay Area, including
maintaining AirTouch's Bay Area Research Technology Facility. In addition,
Vodafone AirTouch will initially maintain AirTouch's San Francisco office as its
U.S./Asia Pacific regional headquarters.
CONDITIONS
CONDITIONS TO EACH PARTY'S OBLIGATIONS TO COMPLETE THE MERGER
AirTouch and Vodafone may complete the merger only if each of the following
conditions is satisfied or waived:
- SHAREHOLDER APPROVALS.
(1) The holders of a majority of the voting power of AirTouch common stock
and AirTouch Class B preferred stock, voting together as one class,
approve and adopt the merger agreement, and the agreement providing
for the internal reorganization,
(2) the holders of a majority of the Vodafone ordinary shares, whether in
person or by proxy, at the extraordinary general meeting of the
shareholders of Vodafone, approve
(a) the merger, and
(b) an increase in the ordinary share capital of Vodafone, and
(3) the holders of at least 75% of the Vodafone ordinary shares, whether
in person or by proxy, at the extraordinary general meeting of the
shareholders of Vodafone, approve the Vodafone board's authorization
to allot securities, including to AirTouch stockholders, pursuant to
the merger;
- EXON-FLORIO. Review and investigation under Exon-Florio has terminated and
the President of the United States has taken no action authorized under
Exon-Florio;
- OTHER REGULATORY APPROVALS. The following required filings and
authorizations, as well as those listed above, have been made or obtained
without being subject to conditions or restrictions that
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would have a material adverse effect on Vodafone and AirTouch on a
combined basis, unless failing to obtain the authorization would not have
a material adverse effect on Vodafone and AirTouch on a combined basis:
(1) filing the certificate of merger with the Secretary of State of the
State of Delaware;
(2) approval of the FCC;
(3) all necessary state securities law permits or approvals;
(4) compliance with the rules and regulations of the NYSE and the London
Stock Exchange; and
(5) confirmation from the European Commission in accordance with Article
6(1)(b), 8(2) or 10(6) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 4064/89 as
amended, or from any national authority within the European Community
to which the merger or any part of the merger is referred that the
merger and any matters arising from the merger are compatible with the
common market;
- NO LAWS OR ORDERS. No laws, judgments or orders have been enacted or
issued, or threatened to be enacted or issued, that restrain, enjoin, or
prohibit the completion of the merger, or that materially frustrate the
express intent and purposes of the merger agreement;
- EFFECTIVE REGISTRATION STATEMENT. The registration statement on Form F-4
has become effective under the Securities Act, there is no stop order
regarding the registration and the SEC has not initiated or threatened any
proceedings for that purpose;
- STOCK EXCHANGE LISTING.
(1) The Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares to be issued in the merger have
been admitted to the Official List of the London Stock Exchange and
this admission has become effective in accordance with the rules and
regulations of the London Stock Exchange and
(2) the Vodafone AirTouch ADSs have been authorized for listing on the
NYSE, subject to official notice of issuance; and
- INTERNAL REORGANIZATION. The internal reorganization of AirTouch has been
completed.
As used in the merger agreement with respect to conditions for completion of
the merger, a "material adverse effect" means, with respect to any entity, a
material adverse effect on the financial condition, properties, business or
results of operations of the entity and its subsidiaries, taken as a whole.
ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS TO THE OBLIGATIONS OF VODAFONE
The obligations of Vodafone to effect the merger are also subject to the
satisfaction or waiver by Vodafone of the following conditions:
- REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES TRUE.
(1) Each of the representations and warranties of AirTouch set forth in
the merger agreement,
(A) to the extent qualified by material adverse effect, being true,
and
(B) to the extent not qualified by material adverse effect, being
true, in each case, when made and as of the closing date, except
to the extent that a representation and warranty expressly speaks
as of a specific date,
PROVIDED that clause (B) will be satisfied so long as any failures of
representations and warranties to be true would not, individually or in
the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect
on AirTouch. Any measurement of material adverse effect will not give
effect to Vodafone's ownership of AirTouch and its subsidiaries after
the merger; and
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(2) Vodafone having received a certificate signed on behalf of AirTouch by
an executive officer of AirTouch to this effect;
- COMPLIANCE WITH COVENANTS.
(1) AirTouch having performed all material obligations required to be
performed by it under the merger agreement at or prior to the closing
date and
(2) Vodafone having received a certificate signed on behalf of AirTouch by
an executive officer to this effect;
- CONSENTS UNDER AGREEMENTS RECEIVED. Consent or approval having been
obtained from each person whose consent or approval is required in
connection with the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the
merger agreement under any agreement to which Vodafone or AirTouch or any
of their respective subsidiaries is a party, except those for which the
failure to obtain the consent or approval, individually or in the
aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to have a material adverse
effect on Vodafone or AirTouch or materially impair the transactions
contemplated hereby;
- TAX OPINION. Vodafone having received an opinion from Sullivan & Cromwell
substantially to the effect that, on the basis of the facts,
representations and assumptions set forth in the opinion,
(1) the merger will be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a
reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the U.S. tax
code and
(2) Vodafone will be treated as a corporation under Section 367(a)(1) of
the U.S. tax code with respect to each transfer of property thereto
pursuant to the merger.
ADDITIONAL CONDITIONS TO THE OBLIGATIONS OF AIRTOUCH
The obligation of AirTouch to effect the merger is also subject to the
satisfaction or waiver by AirTouch of the following conditions:
- REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES TRUE.
(1) Each of the representations and warranties of Vodafone set forth in
the merger agreement,
(A) to the extent qualified by material adverse effect, being true,
and
(B) to the extent not qualified by material adverse effect, being
true, in each case, when made and as of the closing date, except
to the extent that a representation and warranty expressly speaks
as of a specific date,
PROVIDED that clause (B) will be satisfied so long as any failures of
representations and warranties to be true would not, individually or in
the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a material adverse effect
on Vodafone. Any measurement of material adverse effect will not give
effect to Vodafone's ownership of AirTouch and its subsidiaries after
the merger; and,
(2) AirTouch having received a certificate signed on behalf of Vodafone by
an executive officer of Vodafone to this effect;
- COMPLIANCE WITH COVENANTS.
(1) Vodafone having performed all material obligations required to be
performed by it under the merger agreement at or prior to the closing
date and
(2) AirTouch having received a certificate signed on behalf of Vodafone by
an executive officer to this effect;
- CONSENTS UNDER AGREEMENTS RECEIVED. Consent or approval having been
obtained from each person whose consent or approval is required in
connection with the consummation of the transactions contemplated by the
merger agreement under any agreement to which Vodafone or
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AirTouch or any of their respective subsidiaries is a party, except those
for which the failure to obtain the consent or approval, individually or
in the aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to have a material
adverse effect on Vodafone or AirTouch or materially impair the
transactions contemplated by the merger agreement;
- TAX OPINION. AirTouch having received an opinion from Fried, Frank,
Harris, Shriver & Jacobson, substantially to the effect that, on the basis
of the facts, representations and assumptions set forth in the opinion,
(1) the merger will be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a
reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the U.S. tax
code and
(2) Vodafone will be treated as a corporation under Section 367(a)(1) of
the U.S. tax code with respect to each transfer of property thereto
pursuant to the merger.
- SUPPLEMENTAL RESOLUTIONS. The Vodafone resolutions relating to
(1) the election of the new directors designated by AirTouch,
(2) the name change of Vodafone to Vodafone AirTouch Public Limited
Company,
(3) increases in the aggregate remuneration of the non-executive directors
of Vodafone,
(4) the approval of the continued operation for one year after the merger
of the existing AirTouch benefit plans and
(5)amendments to the Vodafone articles of association, relating to
corporate governance but excluding the resolutions relating to the
redenomination of the Vodafone ordinary shares,
having been approved by the requisite vote of the holders of Vodafone
ordinary shares, whether in person or by proxy, at the extraordinary
general meeting of the shareholders of Vodafone.
TERMINATION AND EFFECTS OF TERMINATION
Vodafone and AirTouch may terminate the merger agreement and abandon the
merger at any time prior to the merger becoming effective by mutual written
consent.
TERMINATION BY VODAFONE OR AIRTOUCH
Vodafone or AirTouch may terminate the merger agreement and abandon the
merger at any time prior to the merger provided that it has not breached the
merger agreement in a way that has contributed to the failure of the merger to
be consummated, if
- the merger is not completed by December 31, 1999, except that if at that
time all material governmental authorizations have not been obtained but
all other conditions to the closing have been fulfilled or are capable of
being fulfilled, the directors of either Vodafone or AirTouch may elect to
extend the termination date to March 31, 2000,
- a court order permanently prohibiting completion of the merger becomes
final and non-appealable,
- the approval of AirTouch's stockholders required by the merger agreement
is not obtained, or
- the approval of Vodafone's shareholders required by the merger agreement
is not obtained.
TERMINATION BY VODAFONE
Vodafone may terminate the merger agreement and abandon the merger at any
time prior to the merger, by action of its board, if
- the AirTouch board withdraws or adversely modifies its approval or
recommendation of the merger to AirTouch's stockholders or fails to
reconfirm its recommendation within seven business days after a written
request by Vodafone to do so;
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- AirTouch or its board recommends an acquisition proposal to its
stockholders; or
- AirTouch breaches any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement
contained in the merger agreement which, unless cured, would result in a
failure of either
(1)the condition to the obligations of Vodafone to complete the merger
relating to the accuracy of the representations and warranties of
AirTouch or
(2)the condition to the obligations of Vodafone to complete the merger
relating to the performance by AirTouch of its obligations under the
merger agreement.
TERMINATION BY AIRTOUCH
AirTouch may terminate the merger agreement and abandon the merger at any
time prior to the merger by action of the board if
- the Vodafone board withdraws or adversely modifies its approval or
recommendation of the merger to Vodafone's shareholders or fails to
reconfirm its recommendation within seven business days after a written
request by AirTouch to do so;
- Vodafone or its board recommends an acquisition proposal to its
shareholders;
- Vodafone breaches any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement
contained in the merger agreement which, unless cured, would result in a
failure of either
(1) the condition to the obligations of AirTouch to complete the merger
relating to the accuracy of the representations and warranties of
Vodafone or
(2) the condition to the obligations of AirTouch to complete the merger
relating to the performance by Vodafone of its obligations under the
merger agreement.
TERMINATION PAYMENTS PAYABLE BY VODAFONE
If either Vodafone or AirTouch terminates the merger agreement because
- the necessary approval of Vodafone's shareholders is not obtained, or
- AirTouch terminates the merger agreement because
(1) Vodafone withdraws or adversely modifies its recommendation of the
merger to its shareholders,
(2) Vodafone fails to reconfirm its recommendation as described above,
(3) Vodafone or its board of directors recommends an acquisition proposal
or
(4) Vodafone willfully and intentionally breaches a material
representation, warranty, covenant or agreement contained in the merger
agreement which would result in a failure of a condition to the merger which
cannot be or is not cured,
then Vodafone will be required to pay to AirTouch $225,000,000.
TERMINATION PAYMENTS PAYABLE BY AIRTOUCH
- If Vodafone or AirTouch terminates the merger agreement because the
necessary approval of AirTouch's stockholders is not obtained and, at the
time of the stockholders' vote, an acquisition proposal exists with
respect to AirTouch, AirTouch will be required to pay Vodafone
$225,000,000, plus an additional $775,000,000 if, within 12 months of the
date the merger agreement is terminated, AirTouch executes and delivers an
agreement with respect to any acquisition proposal with respect to
AirTouch, AirTouch is acquired or the AirTouch board recommends the
acceptance by AirTouch's stockholders of a third-party tender or exchange
offer for the AirTouch common stock.
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- If Vodafone terminates the merger agreement because
(1)AirTouch withdraws or adversely modifies its recommendation of the
merger to its stockholders,
(2) AirTouch fails to reconfirm its recommendation as described above,
(3) AirTouch or its board of directors recommends another acquisition
proposal or
(4) AirTouch willfully and intentionally breaches a material
representation, warranty, covenant or agreement contained in the
merger agreement which would result in a failure of a condition to the
merger which cannot be or is not cured,
then AirTouch will be required to pay to Vodafone $1,000,000,000.
EXPENSES
Whether or not the merger is completed, all costs and expenses incurred in
connection with the merger will be paid by the party incurring the expense,
except for termination payments by Vodafone or AirTouch. However, Vodafone and
AirTouch will share equally the costs and expenses of filing, printing and
distributing the F-4 registration statement, this proxy statement/prospectus,
the circular to be distributed to shareholders of Vodafone and the listing
particulars relating to the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares.
AMENDMENT; WAIVER
Vodafone and AirTouch may amend the merger agreement by written agreement
prior to completion of the merger, but, after AirTouch's stockholders or
Vodafone's shareholders have approved the merger agreement, no amendment may be
made which by law requires further stockholder approval without the stockholder
approval being obtained.
Any provision of the merger agreement may be waived prior to the merger
being completed, but only if the waiver is in writing and signed by the party
against whom the waiver is to be effective.
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APPRAISAL RIGHTS
Holders of AirTouch common stock can decide to receive, instead of having
their shares converted into the merger consideration, and holders of AirTouch
Class D and Class E preferred stock can decide to receive, instead of keeping
their shares after the merger, an amount which the Court of Chancery of the
State of Delaware decides is the "fair value" of their AirTouch common stock,
AirTouch Class D preferred stock or AirTouch Class E preferred stock, as the
case may be, exclusive of any element of value arising from the accomplishment
or expectation of the merger, together with a fair rate of interest, as
determined by the court.
In addition, holders of AirTouch Class D preferred stock and AirTouch Class
E preferred stock can decide to receive, instead of having their shares
converted in the internal reorganization into shares of Class D preferred stock
of AirTouch as the surviving corporation in the internal reorganization or
shares of Class E preferred stock of AirTouch as the surviving corporation in
the internal reorganization, as the case may be, an amount determined in a
similar fashion.
These rights are known as "appraisal rights." If a holder of AirTouch common
stock wishes to exercise appraisal rights in connection with the merger, the
holder must not vote in favor of the merger and must meet the conditions
described below. If a holder of AirTouch Class D preferred stock or AirTouch
Class E preferred stock wishes to exercise appraisal rights with respect to the
internal reorganization or the merger, the holder must meet the conditions
described below.
Holders of AirTouch Class B and Class C preferred stock are not entitled to
appraisal rights under Delaware law in connection with the merger or the
internal reorganization. However, holders of AirTouch Class B and Class C
preferred stock who converted their shares into AirTouch common stock prior to
the record date for the special meeting are entitled to assert appraisal rights
in connection with the merger with respect to their shares of AirTouch common
stock.
The conditions necessary to secure appraisal rights are set out in full in
Appendix F. This summary is not meant to be a complete statement on appraisal
rights, but rather is only a guide for a stockholder who wishes to exercise
appraisal rights. Delaware law requires that AirTouch notify stockholders at
least 20 days prior to the special meeting of AirTouch stockholders that they
have a right of appraisal and provide stockholders with a copy of Section 262 of
the DGCL. This proxy statement/prospectus constitutes that notice. If AirTouch
stockholders do not follow the procedures set out below and in Appendix F, they
will lose their appraisal rights.
ALL REFERENCES IN THIS SUMMARY AND IN SECTION 262 TO A "STOCKHOLDER" OR TO A
"HOLDER" OF AIRTOUCH STOCK ARE TO THE RECORD HOLDERS OF THE AIRTOUCH STOCK AS TO
WHICH APPRAISAL RIGHTS ARE AVAILABLE. A PERSON HAVING A BENEFICIAL INTEREST IN
SHARES OF AIRTOUCH STOCK HELD OF RECORD IN THE NAME OF ANOTHER PERSON, SUCH AS A
BROKER OR NOMINEE, MUST ACT PROMPTLY TO CAUSE THE RECORD HOLDER TO FOLLOW THE
STEPS SUMMARIZED BELOW PROPERLY AND IN A TIMELY MANNER TO PERFECT THE HOLDER'S
APPRAISAL RIGHTS.
A holder of AirTouch common stock wishing to exercise his appraisal rights
with respect to the merger must deliver, before the vote on the merger at the
special meeting, a written demand for appraisal of the holder's shares.
A holder of AirTouch common stock wishing to exercise his appraisal rights
with respect to the merger must not vote in favor of adoption of the merger
agreement. Because a duly executed proxy which does not contain voting
instructions will, unless revoked, be voted for the merger, a holder of AirTouch
common stock who votes by proxy and who wishes to exercise appraisal rights must
vote against the merger or abstain from voting on the merger. A vote against the
merger, in person or by proxy, will not in and of itself constitute a written
demand for appraisal satisfying the requirements of Section 262, and a separate
written demand for appraisal is required.
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A holder of AirTouch Class D or Class E preferred stock wishing to exercise
appraisal rights with respect to the merger or the internal reorganization must
deliver, before the vote on the merger or the internal reorganization, as the
case may be, at the special meeting, a written demand for appraisal of the
holder's shares.
In addition, a holder of AirTouch common stock, AirTouch Class D preferred
stock or AirTouch Class E preferred stock wishing to exercise appraisal rights
in connection with the merger or the internal reorganization, as the case may
be, must be the record holder of his shares on the date the holder makes the
written demand for appraisal and must continue to hold the shares of record
until the completion of the merger or the internal reorganization, as the case
may be.
A demand for appraisal should be executed by or on behalf of the holder of
record, fully and correctly, as the holder's name appears on the stock
certificates. The demand must also state that the stockholder intends to demand
appraisal of the holder's shares of AirTouch common stock, AirTouch Class D
preferred stock or AirTouch Class E preferred stock in connection with the
merger or the internal reorganization, as the case may be.
If the shares are owned of record in a fiduciary capacity, including by a
trustee, guardian or custodian, the demand should be executed in that capacity,
and if the shares are owned of record by more than one person, as in a joint
tenancy and tenancy in common, the demand should be executed by or on behalf of
all joint owners. An authorized agent, including two or more joint owners, may
execute a demand for appraisal on behalf of a holder of record but the agent
must identify the record owner or owners and expressly disclose the fact that,
in executing the demand, the agent is agent for the owner or owners.
A record holder such as a broker who holds AirTouch common stock, AirTouch
Class D preferred stock or AirTouch Class E preferred stock as nominee for
several beneficial owners may exercise appraisal rights with respect to the
shares held for one or more beneficial owners while not exercising these rights
with respect to the shares held for other beneficial owners; in this
circumstance, however, the written demand should set forth the number of shares
as to which appraisal is sought and, where no number of shares is expressly
mentioned, the demand will be presumed to cover all shares of AirTouch common
stock, AirTouch Class D preferred stock or AirTouch Class E preferred stock held
in the name of the record owner. Holders who hold their AirTouch common stock,
AirTouch Class D preferred stock or AirTouch Class E preferred stock in
brokerage accounts or other nominee forms and who wish to exercise appraisal
rights are urged to consult with their brokers to determine the appropriate
procedures for the making of a demand for appraisal by the nominee.
HOLDERS OF AIRTOUCH COMMON STOCK, AIRTOUCH CLASS D PREFERRED STOCK OR
AIRTOUCH CLASS E PREFERRED STOCK MUST SEND ALL WRITTEN DEMANDS FOR APPRAISAL
UNDER SECTION 262 TO AIRTOUCH COMMUNICATIONS, INC., ONE CALIFORNIA STREET, SAN
FRANCISCO, CA 94111, ATTENTION: MARGARET G. GILL, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, LEGAL,
EXTERNAL AFFAIRS AND SECRETARY. AIRTOUCH MUST RECEIVE WRITTEN DEMANDS FOR
APPRAISAL UNDER SECTION 262 BEFORE THE MERGER AND THE INTERNAL REORGANIZATION
ARE VOTED UPON AT THE SPECIAL MEETING.
Within ten days after the date the merger becomes effective, AirTouch must
notify each holder of AirTouch common stock, AirTouch Class D preferred stock or
AirTouch Class E preferred stock who has complied with Section 262 and, in the
case of a holder of AirTouch common stock, has not voted in favor of the merger
of the date that the merger has become effective.
Within ten days after the date the internal reorganization becomes
effective, AirTouch must notify each holder of AirTouch Class D preferred stock
or AirTouch Class E preferred stock who has complied with Section 262 of the
date that the internal reorganization has become effective.
Within 120 days after the date the merger or the internal reorganization, as
the case may be, becomes effective, but not thereafter, AirTouch or any holder
of AirTouch common stock, AirTouch
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Class D preferred stock or AirTouch Class E preferred stock who has complied
with Section 262 and is entitled to appraisal rights under Section 262 may file
a petition in the Court of Chancery of the State of Delaware demanding a
determination of the fair value of the holder's shares of AirTouch common stock,
AirTouch Class D preferred stock or AirTouch Class E preferred stock. AirTouch
will have no obligation to file a petition, and neither AirTouch nor Vodafone
has any present intention to cause such a petition to be filed. Accordingly, it
is the obligation of stockholders seeking appraisal rights to initiate all
necessary action to perfect appraisal rights within the time prescribed in
Section 262.
Any holder of AirTouch common stock, AirTouch Class D preferred stock or
AirTouch Class E preferred stock who has complied with the requirements for
exercise of appraisal rights will be entitled, upon written request, to receive
from AirTouch,
(1) in the case of holders of AirTouch common stock, AirTouch Class D
preferred stock or AirTouch Class E preferred stock in connection with the
merger, a statement setting forth the aggregate number of shares of AirTouch
common stock not voted in favor of the merger and the number of shares of
AirTouch Class D preferred stock, AirTouch Class E preferred stock and AirTouch
common stock with respect to which demands for appraisal have been received and
the total number of holders of these shares, and
(2) in the case of holders of AirTouch Class D preferred stock and Class E
preferred stock in connection with the internal reorganization, a statement
setting forth the aggregate number of shares of AirTouch Class D preferred stock
and AirTouch Class E preferred stock with respect to which demands for appraisal
have been received and the total number of holders of these shares.
If a holder of AirTouch common stock, AirTouch Class D preferred stock or
AirTouch Class E preferred stock timely files a petition for an appraisal, the
Court of Chancery is empowered to conduct a hearing on this petition to
determine those holders who have complied with Section 262 and who have become
entitled to appraisal rights thereunder. The Court of Chancery may require the
holders of AirTouch common stock, AirTouch Class D preferred stock or AirTouch
Class E preferred stock who demanded appraisal of their shares to submit their
stock certificates to the Register in Chancery for notation of the pending
appraisal proceeding. If any stockholder fails to comply with its direction, the
Court of Chancery may dismiss the proceedings as to the stockholder.
After determining the holders entitled to appraisal, the Court of Chancery
will appraise the "fair value" of their shares of AirTouch common stock,
AirTouch Class D preferred stock or AirTouch Class E preferred stock, as the
case may be, exclusive of any element of value arising from the accomplishment
or expectation of the merger or the internal reorganization, together with a
fair rate of interest, if any, to be paid upon the amount determined to be the
fair value. Stockholders considering seeking appraisal should be aware that the
fair value of their AirTouch common stock, AirTouch Class D preferred stock or
AirTouch Class E preferred stock, as the case may be, as determined in an
appraisal proceeding under Section 262 could be more than, the same as or less
than the merger consideration they would receive pursuant to the merger or the
internal reorganization, as the case may be, if they did not seek appraisal of
their shares, and that investment banking opinions as to fairness from a
financial point of view are not necessarily opinions as to fair value under
Section 262. The Delaware Supreme Court has stated that "proof of value by any
techniques or methods which are generally considered acceptable in the financial
community and otherwise admissible in court" should be considered in the
appraisal proceeding. In addition, Delaware courts have decided that the
statutory appraisal remedy, depending on factual circumstances, may or may not
be a dissenter's exclusive remedy. The Court of Chancery will also determine the
amount of interest, if any, payable upon the amounts due to persons whose shares
of AirTouch common stock, AirTouch Class D preferred stock or AirTouch Class E
preferred stock have been appraised.
The court may determine the costs of the appraisal action and may allocate
the costs among the parties as the court deems equitable. Each party must bear
its own other expenses of the proceeding,
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although the court may order that all or a portion of the expenses incurred by
any stockholder in connection with an appraisal, including, without limitation,
reasonable attorneys' fees and the fees and expenses of experts utilized in the
appraisal proceeding, be charged against the value of all of the shares of
AirTouch common stock, AirTouch Class D preferred stock or AirTouch Class E
preferred stock entitled to an appraisal.
Any holder of AirTouch common stock, AirTouch Class D preferred stock or
AirTouch Class E preferred stock who duly demands appraisal in compliance with
Section 262 will not, after the merger or the internal reorganization, as the
case may be, be entitled to vote the holder's shares for any purpose or be
entitled to the payment of dividends or other distributions on those shares
other than dividends or other distributions payable to holders of record as of a
record date prior to the merger or the internal reorganization, as the case may
be.
If any stockholder who demands appraisal of shares of AirTouch common stock,
AirTouch Class D preferred stock or AirTouch Class E preferred stock under
Section 262 fails to perfect, or effectively withdraws or loses, the holder's
right to appraisal, the shares of the stockholder will be converted into the
right to receive the merger consideration pursuant to the merger or the internal
reorganization, as the case may be, without interest.
A stockholder will fail to perfect and lose the right to appraisal if he
does not file a petition for appraisal within 120 days after the date the merger
or internal reorganization, as the case may be, becomes effective, or if the
stockholder delivers to AirTouch a written withdrawal of a demand for appraisal
and an acceptance of the terms offered upon the merger or the internal
reorganization, as the case may be. However, any attempt to withdraw a demand
for appraisal made more than 60 days after the date the merger or the internal
reorganization, as the case may be, becomes effective will require the written
approval of AirTouch and, once a petition for appraisal is filed, an appraisal
proceeding may not be dismissed as to any holder absent court approval.
A HOLDER OF AIRTOUCH COMMON STOCK, CLASS D PREFERRED STOCK OR CLASS E
PREFERRED STOCK MAY LOSE APPRAISAL RIGHTS IF THE HOLDER FAILS TO FOLLOW THE
STEPS REQUIRED BY SECTION 262 OF THE DGCL FOR PERFECTING APPRAISAL RIGHTS.
90
<PAGE>
EXCHANGE RATES
This table sets forth, for each period indicated, the high and low noon
buying rates for one pound sterling expressed in U.S. dollars, the average noon
buying rate during such period, and the noon buying rate at the end of such
period, based upon information provided by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIX MONTHS
YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, ENDED
----------------------------------------------------- SEPTEMBER 30,
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1998
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
High....................................... $ 1.5900 $ 1.6440 $ 1.6195 $ 1.7123 $ 1.7035 $ 1.7068
Low........................................ $ 1.4595 $ 1.4621 $ 1.5030 $ 1.4948 $ 1.5775 $ 1.6162
Average.................................... $ 1.5015 $ 1.5650 $ 1.5624 $ 1.5989 $ 1.6467 $ 1.6635
Period End................................. $ 1.4880 $ 1.6190 $ 1.5262 $ 1.6448 $ 1.6766 $ 1.6995
</TABLE>
As of April 20, 1999, the latest practicable date for which exchange rate
information was available prior to the printing of this document, the noon
buying rate for one pound sterling expressed in U.S. dollars was $1.6135.
This table sets forth, for each period indicated, the high and low noon
buying rates for one U.S. dollar expressed in pounds sterling, the average noon
buying rate during such period, and the noon buying rate at the end of such
period, based upon information provided by the Federal Reserve Bank of New York:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIX MONTHS
YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, ENDED
----------------------------------------------------- SEPTEMBER 30,
1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1998
--------- --------- --------- --------- --------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
High....................................... L0.6289 L0.6083 L0.6175 L0.5840 L0.5870 L0.5859
Low........................................ L0.6852 L0.6839 L0.6653 L0.6690 L0.6339 L0.6187
Average.................................... L0.6660 L0.6390 L0.6400 L0.6254 L0.6074 L0.6010
Period End................................. L0.6720 L0.6177 L0.6552 L0.6080 L0.5964 L0.5884
</TABLE>
As of April 20, 1999, the latest practicable date for which exchange rate
information was available prior to the printing of this document, the noon
buying rate for one U.S. dollar was L0.6198.
91
<PAGE>
MARKET PRICE AND DIVIDEND DATA
MARKET PRICES
VODAFONE
The Vodafone ordinary shares are only traded on the London Stock Exchange.
After the merger, Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares will only be traded on the
London Stock Exchange. Vodafone ADSs, each representing ten Vodafone ordinary
shares, have been issued by the depositary and are listed on the NYSE and trade
under the ticker symbol "VOD." Vodafone AirTouch ADSs, each representing ten
Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares, will be issued by the depositary and listed
on the NYSE and will trade under the same ticker symbol.
The table below shows, for the periods indicated, the highest and lowest
middle-market quotations for the Vodafone ordinary shares as derived from the
Daily Official List of the London Stock Exchange and the highest and lowest
sales prices of Vodafone ADSs on the NYSE Composite Tape.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
VODAFONE ORDINARY VODAFONE ADSS
SHARES (1)
-------------------- ----------------
HIGH LOW HIGH LOW
--------- --------- ------- -------
($ PER VODAFONE
(L PER VODAFONE
ORDINARY SHARE) ADS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 1998
First Quarter................................................. 3.070 2.650 49 3/4 43
Second Quarter................................................ 3.560 2.890 54 1/8 48 3/8
Third Quarter................................................. 4.620 3.080 75 1/4 52 1/4
Fourth Quarter................................................ 6.500 4.255 104 1/2 68 5/16
YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 1999
First Quarter................................................. 7.900 5.965 130 100 3/4
Second Quarter................................................ 9.600 6.775 154 112 3/4
Third Quarter................................................. 9.980 5.510 167 94
Fourth Quarter................................................ 12.640 9.750 197 3/4 165 3/4
YEAR ENDING MARCH 31, 2000
First Quarter (through April 20, 1999)........................ 12.433 10.530 198 3/4 169 3/16
</TABLE>
- ------------------------
(1) Each Vodafone ADS represents ten Vodafone ordinary shares.
The last middle market quotation of the Vodafone ordinary shares on the
London Stock Exchange and the last sales price of the Vodafone ADSs on the NYSE
on January 15, 1999 prior to any public announcement of the signing of the
merger agreement, were L10.695 per Vodafone ordinary share and $176.00 per
Vodafone ADS and on April 20, 1999, the last trading day for which information
was available prior to the printing of this proxy statement/prospectus, were
L10.66 per Vodafone ordinary share and $170.5625 per Vodafone ADS.
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS ARE URGED TO OBTAIN CURRENT MARKET QUOTATIONS FOR THE
VODAFONE ORDINARY SHARES AND THE VODAFONE ADSS.
92
<PAGE>
AIRTOUCH
The AirTouch common stock is traded on the NYSE under the ticker symbol
"ATI" and on the Pacific Exchange. This table shows the high and low sale prices
of one share of AirTouch common stock on the NYSE for the periods presented.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AIRTOUCH COMMON
STOCK
----------------
HIGH LOW
------- -------
($ PER SHARE)
<S> <C> <C>
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997
First Quarter................................................................... 29 1/2 22 7/8
Second Quarter.................................................................. 29 1/4 22
Third Quarter................................................................... 38 1/8 26 15/16
Fourth Quarter.................................................................. 42 33
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1998
First Quarter................................................................... 50 7/8 40 5/16
Second Quarter.................................................................. 58 15/16 46 1/4
Third Quarter................................................................... 65 5/8 51 3/4
Fourth Quarter.................................................................. 75 42 1/4
YEAR ENDING DECEMBER 31, 1999
First Quarter .................................................................. 98 7/8 67 13/16
Second Quarter (through April 20, 1999)......................................... 102 11/16 88 1/2
</TABLE>
The last sale price of a share of AirTouch common stock on the NYSE on
January 15, 1999, prior to any public announcement of the signing of the merger
agreement, was $83.375 per share. On April 20, 1999, the last trading day for
which information was available prior to the printing of this proxy
statement/prospectus the last sale price was $89.00 per share.
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS ARE URGED TO OBTAIN CURRENT MARKET QUOTATIONS FOR THE
VODAFONE ADSS, VODAFONE ORDINARY SHARES AND AIRTOUCH COMMON STOCK BEFORE MAKING
A DECISION WITH RESPECT TO THE MERGER.
DIVIDEND DATA
VODAFONE
The following table sets forth dividends announced and paid in respect of
Vodafone ordinary shares and Vodafone ADSs, for the periods indicated, including
the associated U.K. tax credit available to beneficial owners of Vodafone
ordinary shares or Vodafone ADSs who are resident in the U.S. for tax purposes,
but before deduction of U.K. withholding taxes. See "MATERIAL TAX
CONSEQUENCES--United Kingdom Tax Consequences of the Ownership of Vodafone
AirTouch Ordinary Shares and Vodafone AirTouch ADSs." Therefore, the amounts
shown are not those that were actually paid to holders of Vodafone ordinary
shares and Vodafone ADSs. The percentage of any dividend represented by the
associated U.K. tax credit has varied over the periods indicated. As of April 6,
1999, the U.K. tax credit is now effectively completely set off by the amount of
applicable U.K. withholding taxes. The U.K. tax credit is currently one-ninth of
the cash dividend. Dividends have been translated from pounds sterling per
Vodafone ADS into U.S. dollars using the exchange rate on the date the dividends
were paid. Dividends have historically been paid semi-annually, with the regular
interim dividend with respect to the first six months of Vodafone's year payable
in February and the regular final dividend with respect to the second six months
of Vodafone's fiscal year payable in August. See "EXCHANGE RATES," "VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH FOLLOWING THE MERGER-- Dividends," "DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH
ORDINARY SHARES--Dividends" and
93
<PAGE>
"DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH AMERICAN DEPOSITARY SHARES--Share Dividends
and Other Distributions."
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DIVIDENDS PER VODAFONE ORDINARY
SHARE AND VODAFONE ADS
-----------------------------------
FIRST SECOND
SIX MONTHS SIX MONTHS TOTAL
----------- ----------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
YEAR ENDED MARCH 31,
1994
Ordinary share (1).................................. 1.77p 1.76p 3.53p
ADS (1)............................................. $ 0.25 $ 0.27 $ 0.52
1995
Ordinary share...................................... 2.05p 2.13p 4.18p
ADS................................................. $ 0.32 $ 0.33 $ 0.65
1996
Ordinary share...................................... 2.46p 2.55p 5.01p
ADS................................................. $ 0.38 $ 0.39 $ 0.77
1997
Ordinary share...................................... 2.95p 3.06p 6.01p
ADS................................................. $ 0.48 $ 0.49 $ 0.97
1998
Ordinary share...................................... 3.39p 3.52p 6.91p
ADS................................................. $ 0.55 $ 0.57 $ 1.12
1999
Ordinary share...................................... 3.90p --
ADS................................................. $0.63 --
</TABLE>
- ------------------------
(1) The dividend per ordinary share and ADS have been restated for the
capitalization issue approved by the shareholders of Vodafone on July 20,
1994.
AIRTOUCH
AirTouch has never paid dividends with respect to the AirTouch common stock.
The AirTouch board has believed that earnings will create greater long-term
value if reinvested to create growth.
94
<PAGE>
DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE
Vodafone is a leading international provider of mobile telecommunications
services. It owns interests in mobile operations in the United Kingdom and 12
other countries which, as of March 31, 1999, served over 10.4 million customers
based on Vodafone's ownership share of its telecommunications ventures, of which
over 9.5 million are connected to digital networks. Vodafone was formed in 1984
as a subsidiary of Racal Electronics Plc. Approximately twenty percent of
Vodafone, then known as Racal Telecom Limited, was offered to the public in
October 1988. Vodafone was spun off from Racal Electronics and became an
independent company in September 1991.
Vodafone's principal business consists of the operation in the United
Kingdom of digital and analog cellular radio telephone and paging networks.
Vodafone was the first cellular operator in the United Kingdom to open its
network for service. After commencing service on its analog network on January
1, 1985 it subsequently launched one of the world's first digital networks in
July 1992. It has been the U.K. market leader since 1986 and is presently the
largest of the four United Kingdom operators with more than 5.5 million
customers at March 31, 1999, of which over 1.8 million are on its innovative
"Pay As You Talk" prepaid service.
Outside of the United Kingdom, Vodafone currently has interests, including,
in most cases, board representation and significant operating influence, in
cellular operators in Australia, Egypt, Fiji, France, Germany, Greece, Malta,
the Netherlands, New Zealand, South Africa, Sweden and Uganda. These cellular
interests are licensed to serve over 360 million people. At March 31, 1999,
Vodafone's customer base outside of the U.K. was almost 4.9 million, based on
its ownership shares of its ventures. Vodafone also owns an approximate 3.0%
interest in Globalstar, which is constructing and will operate a 48 low-earth
orbit satellite communications system. Vodafone is licensed to be the exclusive
service provider for Globalstar in Australia, Greece, Lesotho, Malta, South
Africa, Swaziland and the United Kingdom.
DESCRIPTION OF AIRTOUCH
AirTouch is a leading international mobile telecommunications company, with
a significant presence in the United States, Europe and Asia. As of March 31,
1999, AirTouch had over 18.8 million customers based on its ownership share of
the cellular, paging and personal communications service ventures in which it
has an interest. At that date, those ventures were licensed to serve an
estimated 723 million people.
In the United States, AirTouch's cellular and PCS ventures had over 10.3
million customers at March 31, 1999, of which AirTouch's proportionate share was
approximately 8.7 million customers. AirTouch's interests in its U.S. cellular
and PCS ventures at March 31, 1999 represented over 95 million POPs, a number
reflecting the population of a market multiplied by AirTouch's ownership
interest in a licensee operating in that market. AirTouch controls or shares
control over cellular systems in 15 of the 30 largest cellular markets in the
United States, including Los Angeles, Detroit, San Francisco, Atlanta, San
Diego, Minneapolis, Phoenix, Seattle, Denver, Cleveland, Portland, San Jose,
Kansas City, Cincinnati and Sacramento. In addition, through PrimeCo Personal
Communications, L.P., AirTouch shares control over PCS systems operations in
over 30 major U.S. cities, including Chicago, Dallas, Tampa, Houston, Miami, New
Orleans and Milwaukee.
Outside the U.S., as of March 31, 1999, AirTouch's cellular ventures were
licensed to serve more than 570 million people and had over 26 million
customers, of which AirTouch's proportionate share was approximately 6.6
million. AirTouch holds significant ownership interests, with board
representation and significant operating influence, in cellular systems
operating in Belgium, Egypt, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Poland, Portugal,
Romania, South Korea, Spain and Sweden.
Industry surveys indicate that AirTouch is also among the largest providers
of paging services in the United States, with approximately 3.5 million units in
service as of March 31, 1999. AirTouch also owns an approximate 5.2% interest in
Globalstar and is licensed to be the exclusive service provider for Globalstar
in the United States and the Caribbean region, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia and
owns interests in the exclusive service providers in Mexico and Canada.
95
<PAGE>
RECENT DEVELOPMENTS
VODAFONE
For the six months ended March 31, 1999, Vodafone's operating revenues were
in line with management's expectations. Customer growth continued to be strong
and is expected to remain robust for the mobile telecommunications industry
generally. Increasing competition in some markets may cause Vodafone ventures in
such markets to experience a slightly lower rate of increase in the number of
customers than in 1998. Vodafone expects the revenues of Vodafone AirTouch to
continue to grow, notwithstanding the industry-wide trend towards decreasing
average revenue per customer. Vodafone also expects capital expenditures to rise
in accordance with increasing usage and number of customers. Vodafone currently
expects to publish its results for the year ended March 31, 1999 on June 8,
1999.
AIRTOUCH
On April 22, 1999, AirTouch released its unaudited operating results for the
quarter ended March 31, 1999. AirTouch acquired the U.S. cellular and PCS
businesses of MediaOne Group, Inc. on April 6, 1998. Accordingly, AirTouch's
results for the quarter ended March 31, 1998, set forth below, do not include
the results of those acquired businesses for the periods prior to the
acquisition and, therefore, its comparability to the results for the quarter
ended March 31, 1999 is limited. Selected results for these periods include:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
THREE MONTHS
ENDED MARCH 31,
--------------------
1998 1999
--------- ---------
$ $
(IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT
PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S> <C> <C>
U.S. GAAP
Operating revenues......................................................................... 958 1,426
Operating expenses, excluding depreciation and amortization expenses....................... 580 885
Depreciation and amortization expenses..................................................... 144 275
--------- ---------
Operating income........................................................................... 234 266
--------- ---------
Net income applicable to common stockholders............................................... 153 257
Net income per share applicable to common stockholders:
Basic.................................................................................. $ 0.30 $ 0.45
Diluted................................................................................ $ 0.30 $ 0.43
Capital expenditures and capital calls, excluding acquisitions............................. 265 375
</TABLE>
AirTouch's sale of certain investments accounted for approximately $0.08 of
net income per share in the first quarter of 1999.
The presentation of the following proportionate data is not permitted by
U.S. GAAP and is not intended to replace the consolidated operating results
prepared and presented in accordance with U.S. GAAP. However, since significant
wireless systems in which AirTouch has an interest are not consolidated,
proportionate information is provided as supplemental data to facilitate a more
detailed understanding and assessment of consolidated operating results prepared
and presented in accordance
96
<PAGE>
with U.S. GAAP. For more information regarding the presentation of proportionate
data, see "SUMMARY--Proportionate Data of AirTouch."
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
THREE MONTHS
ENDED MARCH 31,
----------------------
1998 1999
---------- ----------
$ $
($ IN MILLIONS, EXCEPT
PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
<S> <C> <C>
PROPORTIONATE DATA
Proportionate revenue.................................................................. 1,355 2,119
Proportionate operating cash flow...................................................... 547 834
Net income applicable to common stockholders........................................... 153 257
Proportionate capital expenditures..................................................... 314 407
<CAPTION>
(IN THOUSANDS)
<S> <C> <C>
Proportionate number of customers...................................................... 11,498 18,822
</TABLE>
As of March 31, 1999, AirTouch's number of proportionate international
(non-U.S.) customers was 6.6 million, an 84% increase from the same date in
1998, and its number of U.S. cellular and PCS customers was 8.7 million, a 20%
increase from the same date in 1998 (on a pro forma basis to account for the
NewVector acquisition and the acquisition of MediaOne's interest in PrimeCo).
97
<PAGE>
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH FOLLOWING THE MERGER
Upon completion of the merger, Vodafone will change its name to "Vodafone
AirTouch Public Limited Company." The worldwide headquarters of Vodafone
AirTouch will be in Newbury, England. Following the merger, AirTouch's San
Francisco office will be the U.S./Asia Pacific regional headquarters for
Vodafone AirTouch. In addition, Vodafone has agreed that for three years
following the date the merger becomes effective, Vodafone AirTouch will maintain
a significant business presence in the San Francisco Bay Area and will maintain
AirTouch's Bay Area Research Technology Facility.
Information regarding the management of Vodafone AirTouch after the merger
is contained under the caption "DIRECTORS AND MANAGEMENT OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH
FOLLOWING THE MERGER" and additional information regarding the expected cost
savings and revenue enhancements to be achieved in connection with the merger is
contained under the caption "THE MERGER--Reasons for the Merger."
FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Vodafone AirTouch will, like Vodafone presently, have a financial year-end
of March 31. Vodafone AirTouch will prepare its financial statements in
accordance with U.K. GAAP and present them in pounds sterling. Vodafone AirTouch
financial statements will also include a summary of the effects of the
differences between U.K. GAAP and U.S. GAAP for financial information such as
net income, shareholders' equity and total assets.
DIVIDENDS
Vodafone has historically paid dividends on a semi-annual basis and expects
that Vodafone AirTouch will continue to pay semi-annual dividends on Vodafone
AirTouch ordinary shares. The amount of future dividends of Vodafone AirTouch
will be dependent on its earnings and financial condition and other factors
affecting its businesses. Vodafone's aggregate interim and final dividends for
the year ended March 31, 1998, including the associated U.K. tax credit
available to beneficial owners of Vodafone ordinary shares or Vodafone ADSs who
are resident in the U.S. for tax purposes, but before deduction of U.K.
withholding taxes, was 6.91p per ordinary share or $1.12 per ADS (based on the
exchange rate on the date when the dividend was paid). Vodafone's interim
dividend for the six months ended September 30, 1998, including the tax credit
but before U.K. withholding tax, was 3.9p per ordinary share or $0.63 per ADS
based on the exchange rate on the date when the dividend was paid. Because these
amounts include the associated U.K. tax credit, they do not represent the
amounts actually paid to holders of Vodafone ordinary shares or ADSs. Vodafone's
interim dividend for the six months ended September 30, 1998 was paid on
February 12, 1999. Vodafone expects to pay a final dividend in respect of the
year ended March 31, 1999 in August 1999. The record date for this dividend will
be June 18, 1999. Holders of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs will be eligible to
participate in Vodafone AirTouch's "Global BuyDIRECT" plan administered by The
Bank of New York which, among other things, provides for automatic dividend
reinvestments to purchase Vodafone AirTouch ADSs.
Holders of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares will receive dividends in
pounds sterling and holders of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs will receive dividends in
U.S. dollars. See "DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH AMERICAN DEPOSITARY
SHARES--Share Dividends and Other Distributions."
DESCRIPTION OF APOLLO MERGER SUB
Apollo Merger Sub is a wholly owned subsidiary of Vodafone organized under
the laws of Delaware. It was incorporated in January 1999 solely for use in the
merger and is engaged in no other business.
98
<PAGE>
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
INTRODUCTORY NOTE
The following unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information gives
pro forma effect to the merger, after giving effect to the pro forma adjustments
described in the accompanying notes. The unaudited pro forma consolidated
financial information has been prepared from, and should be read in conjunction
with, the respective historical consolidated financial statements and notes
thereto of Vodafone and AirTouch, which are incorporated by reference into this
document. For information on how to obtain any of those documents, see
"SUMMARY--Where You Can Find More Information."
The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information is provided for
illustrative purposes only and does not purport to represent what the actual
results of operations or the financial position of Vodafone AirTouch would have
been had the merger occurred on the respective dates assumed, nor is it
necessarily indicative of Vodafone AirTouch's future operating results or
consolidated financial position.
The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information has been prepared
in accordance with U.K. GAAP, which differs in certain respects from U.S. GAAP.
Note 32 to the consolidated financial statements of Vodafone, included in
Vodafone's Form 20-F filed with the SEC on July 21, 1998, which presented U.S.
GAAP financial information for the years ended March 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998,
provides a description of the principal differences between U.K. GAAP and U.S.
GAAP as they relate to Vodafone. Note 8 to the unaudited pro forma consolidated
financial information contains a reconciliation of the pro forma net loss and
loss per share and pro forma shareholders' equity to U.S. GAAP.
Vodafone AirTouch will account for the merger as an acquisition under U.K.
GAAP in accordance with Financial Reporting Standard 6, "Acquisitions and
Mergers." Vodafone AirTouch will account for the merger as a purchase for U.S.
GAAP purposes in accordance with APB Opinion No. 16, "Business Combinations."
The historical financial statements of AirTouch have been prepared in
accordance with U.S. GAAP. For purposes of presenting the unaudited pro forma
consolidated financial information, financial information relating to AirTouch
has been adjusted to conform materially with Vodafone's accounting policies
under U.K. GAAP as described in Note 4 to the unaudited pro forma consolidated
financial information. On April 6, 1998, AirTouch acquired NewVector, which held
the U.S. cellular business of MediaOne Group, Inc., and MediaOne's interest in
PrimeCo pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of January 29,
1998 among U S WEST, Inc., MediaOne, NewVector, U S WEST PCS Holdings, Inc. and
AirTouch, as described in more detail in the Form 8-K/A filed by AirTouch on
April 23, 1998, incorporated by reference in this document. Pro forma effect has
been given to this acquisition in the pro forma consolidated financial
information.
The pro forma merger adjustments reflected in the accompanying unaudited pro
forma consolidated financial information reflect estimates made by Vodafone
management and assumptions that it believes to be reasonable. The unaudited pro
forma consolidated financial information does not take into account any
synergies, including cost savings, or any severance and restructuring costs,
which may or are expected to occur as a result of the merger. See "THE
MERGER--Reasons for the Merger."
The pro forma amounts pertaining to the consolidated Vodafone AirTouch
entity in the unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information are
presented in pounds sterling and are also expressed in U.S. dollars, the latter
being presented solely for convenience and translated at the noon buying rate on
September 30, 1998, which was $1.6995 to L1.00.
99
<PAGE>
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT
SIX MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1998
The following pro forma consolidated income statement for the six months
ended September 30, 1998 is derived from the unaudited consolidated profit and
loss account of Vodafone for the period then ended and AirTouch's unaudited
income statements for the quarters ended June 30, 1998 and September 30, 1998,
as adjusted to U.K. GAAP, after giving effect to the pro forma adjustments
described in the notes to the unaudited pro forma consolidated financial
information. These adjustments have been determined as if the merger took place
on April 1, 1997, the first day of the earliest period presented in the Vodafone
AirTouch unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information. This
information has been prepared from, and should be read in conjunction with, the
respective consolidated financial statements and notes thereto of Vodafone and
AirTouch, which are incorporated by reference into this document. The unaudited
pro forma consolidated income statements omit the results of AirTouch for the
three months ended March 31, 1998. The pro forma financial information for the
six month period ended September 30, 1998 has been prepared on this basis to
reflect the basis of consolidation which Vodafone AirTouch expects to adopt
after the merger as AirTouch's financial year end will be changed to March 31.
The pro forma U.K. GAAP group turnover and profit before preference dividends of
AirTouch for the three months ended March 31, 1998, were $1,299 million and $193
million, respectively. The table below has been prepared in accordance with U.K.
GAAP.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
VODAFONE
PRO FORMA AIRTOUCH
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ADJUSTMENTS PRO FORMA
----------- ------------------------ ------------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NOTE 1 NOTE 2
<CAPTION>
L $ L L L
(IN MILLIONS EXCEPT PER SHARE AND PER ADS AMOUNTS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Turnover................................................... 1,563 3,001 1,804 -- 3,367
Less: joint ventures....................................... -- (232) (139) -- (139)
----- ----- ----- ------ -----
Group turnover............................................. 1,563 2,769 1,665 -- 3,228
----- ----- ----- ------ -----
Operating profit........................................... 398 626 376 (379)(a) 452
(5)(b)
62(c)
Share of operating profit/(loss) in associated
undertakings............................................. 57 391 235 (552)(a) (266)
(6)(b)
Share of operating loss in joint ventures.................. -- (32) (19) (30)(a) (46)
3(c)
----- ----- ----- ------ -----
Total group operating profit:
Group and share of associated undertakings and joint
ventures............................................... 455 985 592 (907) 140
Disposal of fixed asset investments........................ 65 -- -- -- 65
----- ----- ----- ------ -----
Profit on ordinary activities before interest.............. 520 985 592 (907) 205
Net interest payable....................................... (43) (106) (64) (101)(d) (215)
(7)(e)
----- ----- ----- ------ -----
Profit/(loss) on ordinary activities before taxation....... 477 879 528 (1,015) (10)
Tax on profit/(loss) on ordinary activities................ (124) (314) (188) 39(f) (273)
----- ----- ----- ------ -----
Profit/(loss) on ordinary activities after taxation........ 353 565 340 (976) (283)
Equity minority interests.................................. (20) (97) (59) 11(b) (68)
Non equity minority interests.............................. -- -- -- (26)(g) (26)
----- ----- ----- ------ -----
Profit/(loss) for the period............................... 333 468 281 (991) (377)
Preference dividends....................................... -- (68) (41) 41(g) --
Equity dividends........................................... (96) -- -- -- (96)
----- ----- ----- ------ -----
Retained profit/(loss) for the group and its share of
associated undertakings and joint ventures............... 237 400 240 (950) (473)
----- ----- ----- ------ -----
----- ----- ----- ------ -----
Basic earnings/(loss) per share............................ 0.11 0.70 0.42 (0.06)
----- ----- ----- -----
----- ----- ----- -----
Diluted earnings/(loss) per share.......................... 0.11 (0.06)
----- -----
----- -----
Adjusted earnings per share (Note 9)....................... 0.09 0.53 0.08
----- ----- -----
----- ----- -----
Basic earnings/(loss) per ADS.............................. 1.08 (0.61)
----- -----
----- -----
Diluted earnings/(loss) per ADS............................ 1.07 (0.61)
----- -----
----- -----
Basic average number of shares outstanding................. 3,086 571 571 6,161
----- ----- ----- -----
----- ----- ----- -----
Diluted average number of shares outstanding............... 3,115 6,161
----- -----
----- -----
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
$
<S> <C>
Turnover................................................... 5,722
Less: joint ventures....................................... (236)
---------
Group turnover............................................. 5,486
---------
Operating profit........................................... 769
Share of operating profit/(loss) in associated
undertakings............................................. (452)
Share of operating loss in joint ventures.................. (78)
---------
Total group operating profit:
Group and share of associated undertakings and joint
ventures............................................... 238
Disposal of fixed asset investments........................ 110
---------
Profit on ordinary activities before interest.............. 348
Net interest payable....................................... (365)
---------
Profit/(loss) on ordinary activities before taxation....... (17)
Tax on profit/(loss) on ordinary activities................ (464)
---------
Profit/(loss) on ordinary activities after taxation........ (481)
Equity minority interests.................................. (116)
Non equity minority interests.............................. (44)
---------
Profit/(loss) for the period............................... (641)
Preference dividends....................................... --
Equity dividends........................................... (163)
---------
Retained profit/(loss) for the group and its share of
associated undertakings and joint ventures............... (804)
---------
---------
Basic earnings/(loss) per share............................ (0.10)
---------
---------
Diluted earnings/(loss) per share.......................... (0.10)
---------
---------
Adjusted earnings per share (Note 9)....................... 0.14
---------
---------
Basic earnings/(loss) per ADS.............................. (1.04)
---------
---------
Diluted earnings/(loss) per ADS............................ (1.04)
---------
---------
Basic average number of shares outstanding................. 6,161
---------
---------
Diluted average number of shares outstanding............... 6,161
---------
---------
</TABLE>
The notes to the unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information are an
integral part of the statements.
100
<PAGE>
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT
YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 1998
The following unaudited pro forma consolidated income statement for the year
ended March 31, 1998 is derived from the audited consolidated profit and loss
account of Vodafone for the year then ended and from the unaudited pro forma
consolidated income statement of AirTouch for the year ended December 31, 1997,
as adjusted to U.K. GAAP, after giving effect to the pro forma adjustments
described in the notes to the unaudited pro forma consolidated financial
information. These adjustments have been determined as if the merger took place
on April 1, 1997, the first day of the earliest financial period presented in
the Vodafone AirTouch unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information.
This information has been prepared from, and should be read in conjunction with,
the respective historical consolidated financial statements and notes thereto of
Vodafone and AirTouch, which are incorporated by reference into this document.
The table below has been prepared in accordance with U.K. GAAP.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
VODAFONE
PRO FORMA AIRTOUCH
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ADJUSTMENTS PRO FORMA
----------- -------------------- ------------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NOTE 1 NOTE 2
<CAPTION>
L $ L L L
(IN MILLIONS EXCEPT PER SHARE AND PER ADS AMOUNTS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Turnover........................................................ 2,471 5,341 3,244 -- 5,715
Less: joint ventures............................................ -- (319) (194) -- (194)
----- --------- --------- ------ ---------
Group turnover.................................................. 2,471 5,022 3,050 -- 5,521
----- --------- --------- ------ ---------
Operating profit................................................ 626 1,010 613 (758)(a) 596
115(c)
Share of operating profit/(loss) in associated undertakings..... 60 491 298 (1,104)(a) (752)
(6)(b)
Share of operating loss in joint ventures....................... -- (131) (79) (60)(a) (133)
6(c)
----- --------- --------- ------ ---------
Total group operating profit/(loss):
Group and share of associated undertakings and joint
ventures.................................................... 686 1,370 832 (1,807) (289)
Disposal of fixed asset investments............................. 25 -- -- -- 25
----- --------- --------- ------ ---------
Profit/(loss) on ordinary activities before interest............ 711 1,370 832 (1,807) (264)
Net interest payable............................................ (61) (225) (137) (201)(d) (414)
(15)(e)
----- --------- --------- ------ ---------
Profit/(loss) on ordinary activities before taxation............ 650 1,145 695 (2,023) (678)
Tax on profit/(loss) on ordinary activities..................... (203) (438) (266) 77(f) (392)
----- --------- --------- ------ ---------
Profit/(loss) on ordinary activities after taxation............. 447 707 429 (1,946) (1,070)
Equity minority interests....................................... (28) (161) (98) 6(b) (120)
Non equity minority interests................................... -- -- -- (52)(g) (52)
----- --------- --------- ------ ---------
Profit/(loss) for the financial year............................ 419 546 331 (1,992) (1,242)
Preference dividends............................................ -- (139) (84) 84(g) --
Equity dividends................................................ (170) -- -- -- (170)
----- --------- --------- ------ ---------
Retained profit/(loss) for the group and its share of associated
undertakings and joint ventures............................... 249 407 247 (1,908) (1,412)
----- --------- --------- ------ ---------
----- --------- --------- ------ ---------
Basic earnings/(loss) per share................................. 0.14 0.72 0.44 (0.20)
----- --------- --------- ---------
----- --------- --------- ---------
Diluted earnings/(loss) per share............................... 0.14 (0.20)
----- ---------
----- ---------
Adjusted earnings per share (Note 9)............................ 0.13 0.65 0.11
----- --------- ---------
----- --------- ---------
Basic earnings/(loss) per ADS................................... 1.36 (2.02)
----- ---------
----- ---------
Diluted earnings/(loss) per ADS................................. 1.36 (2.02)
----- ---------
----- ---------
Basic average number of shares outstanding...................... 3,073 563 563 6,148
----- --------- --------- ---------
----- --------- --------- ---------
Diluted average number of shares outstanding.................... 3,082 6,148
----- ---------
----- ---------
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
$
<S> <C>
Turnover........................................................ 9,713
Less: joint ventures............................................ (330)
---------
Group turnover.................................................. 9,383
---------
Operating profit................................................ 1,013
Share of operating profit/(loss) in associated undertakings..... (1,278)
Share of operating loss in joint ventures....................... (226)
---------
Total group operating profit/(loss):
Group and share of associated undertakings and joint
ventures.................................................... (491)
Disposal of fixed asset investments............................. 42
---------
Profit/(loss) on ordinary activities before interest............ (449)
Net interest payable............................................ (703)
---------
Profit/(loss) on ordinary activities before taxation............ (1,152)
Tax on profit/(loss) on ordinary activities..................... (666)
---------
Profit/(loss) on ordinary activities after taxation............. (1,818)
Equity minority interests....................................... (205)
Non equity minority interests................................... (88)
---------
Profit/(loss) for the financial year............................ (2,111)
Preference dividends............................................ --
Equity dividends................................................ (289)
---------
Retained profit/(loss) for the group and its share of associated
undertakings and joint ventures............................... (2,400)
---------
---------
Basic earnings/(loss) per share................................. (0.34)
---------
---------
Diluted earnings/(loss) per share............................... (0.34)
---------
---------
Adjusted earnings per share (Note 9)............................ 0.19
---------
---------
Basic earnings/(loss) per ADS................................... (3.43)
---------
---------
Diluted earnings/(loss) per ADS................................. (3.43)
---------
---------
Basic average number of shares outstanding...................... 6,148
---------
---------
Diluted average number of shares outstanding.................... 6,148
---------
---------
</TABLE>
The notes to the unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information are an
integral part of the statements.
101
<PAGE>
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
AT SEPTEMBER 30, 1998
The following unaudited pro forma consolidated balance sheet at September
30, 1998 is derived from the unaudited consolidated balance sheets of Vodafone
and AirTouch at that date adjusted to U.K. GAAP, after giving effect to the pro
forma adjustments described in the notes to the Vodafone AirTouch unaudited pro
forma consolidated financial information. These adjustments have been determined
as if the merger took place on September 30, 1998. This information has been
prepared from, and should be read in conjunction with, the respective historical
consolidated financial statements and notes thereto of Vodafone and AirTouch,
which are incorporated by reference into this document. The table below has been
prepared in accordance with U.K. GAAP.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
VODAFONE
PRO FORMA AIRTOUCH
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ADJUSTMENTS PRO FORMA
----------- ------------------------ ------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NOTE 1 NOTE 2
L $ L L L
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- -----------
<CAPTION>
(IN MILLIONS)
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
FIXED ASSETS
Intangible assets........................................ 170 4,207 2,476 17,961(a) 18,445
(2,476)(a)
314(b)
Tangible assets.......................................... 1,724 3,767 2,216 10(b) 3,950
Investments in associated undertakings................... 236 1,166 686 14,825(a) 15,600
(8)(a)
(139)(b)
Investments in joint ventures
Share of gross assets.................................. -- 1,781 1,048 1,693(a) 2,490
(251)(a)
Share of gross liabilities............................. -- (367) (216) -- (216)
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- -----------
-- 1,414 832 1,442 2,274
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- -----------
Other investments........................................ 95 171 101 114(a) 310
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- -----------
2,225 10,725 6,311 32,043 40,579
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- -----------
CURRENT ASSETS
Stocks................................................... 36 96 56 92
Debtors.................................................. 670 1,099 647 188(a) 1,761
254(a)
2(b)
Cash at bank and in hand................................. 7 17 10 256(a) 18
(3,351)(a)
3,095(a)
1(b)
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- -----------
713 1,212 713 445 1,871
CREDITORS: amounts falling due within one year........... (1,550) (1,270) (747) (8)(b) (2,305)
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- -----------
NET CURRENT LIABILITIES.................................. (837) (58) (34) 437 (434)
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- -----------
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES.................... 1,388 10,667 6,277 32,480 40,145
CREDITORS: amounts falling due after more than one (765) (2,990) (1,760) (3,095)(a) (5,729)
year...................................................
(109)(b)
PROVISIONS FOR LIABILITIES AND CHARGES................... (17) -- -- -- (17)
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- -----------
606 7,677 4,517 29,276 34,399
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- -----------
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- -----------
CAPITAL AND RESERVES
Called up share capital.................................. 155 6 4 204(a) 363
Share premium account.................................... 86 9,955 5,858 25,763(a) 31,707
Other reserves........................................... -- -- -- 728(a) 728
Profit and loss account.................................. 280 (2,691) (1,584) 1,584(a) 280
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- -----------
Total shareholders' funds................................ 521 7,270 4,278 28,279 33,078
Equity minority interests................................ 81 407 239 71(b) 391
Non-equity minority interests............................ 4 -- -- 926(a) 930
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- -----------
606 7,677 4,517 29,276 34,399
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- -----------
----------- ----------- ----------- ------------- -----------
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
$
---------
<S> <C>
FIXED ASSETS
Intangible assets........................................ 31,347
Tangible assets.......................................... 6,713
Investments in associated undertakings................... 26,512
Investments in joint ventures
Share of gross assets.................................. 4,232
Share of gross liabilities............................. (367)
---------
3,865
---------
Other investments........................................ 527
---------
68,964
---------
CURRENT ASSETS
Stocks................................................... 156
Debtors.................................................. 2,993
Cash at bank and in hand................................. 31
---------
3,180
CREDITORS: amounts falling due within one year........... (3,918)
---------
NET CURRENT LIABILITIES.................................. (738)
---------
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES.................... 68,226
CREDITORS: amounts falling due after more than one (9,736)
year...................................................
PROVISIONS FOR LIABILITIES AND CHARGES................... (29)
---------
58,461
---------
---------
CAPITAL AND RESERVES
Called up share capital.................................. 617
Share premium account.................................... 53,886
Other reserves........................................... 1,237
Profit and loss account.................................. 476
---------
Total shareholders' funds................................ 56,216
Equity minority interests................................ 664
Non-equity minority interests............................ 1,581
---------
58,461
---------
---------
</TABLE>
The notes to the unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information are an
integral part of the statements.
102
<PAGE>
AIRTOUCH UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT
SIX MONTHS ENDED SEPTEMBER 30, 1998
The following unaudited consolidated income statement for the six months
ended September 30, 1998 is derived from the historical consolidated income
statements of AirTouch for the six months then ended, after giving effect to the
U.K. GAAP adjustments described in the notes to the unaudited pro forma
consolidated financial information. This information has been prepared from, and
should be read in conjunction with, the historical consolidated financial
statements and notes thereto of AirTouch, which are incorporated by reference
into this document.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AIRTOUCH
-----------------------------------------
U.S. GAAP ADJUSTMENTS
NOTE 3 NOTE 4 U.K. GAAP
$ $ $
----------- --------------- -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
(IN MILLIONS EXCEPT PER SHARE AMOUNTS)
Turnover.................................................................. 3,001 -- 3,001
Less: joint ventures...................................................... (232) -- (232)
----- --- -----
Group turnover............................................................ 2,769 -- 2,769
----- --- -----
Operating profit.......................................................... 611 2(a) 626
77(b)
(64)(c)
Share of operating profit in associated undertakings...................... 213 15(b) 391
2(d)
161(e)
Share of operating loss in joint ventures................................. (36) 4(e) (32)
----- --- -----
Total group operating profit:
Group and share of associated undertakings and joint ventures........... 788 197 985
Disposal of fixed asset investments....................................... -- -- --
----- --- -----
Profit on ordinary activities before interest............................. 788 197 985
Net interest payable...................................................... (71) (12)(a) (106)
(23)(e)
----- --- -----
Profit on ordinary activities before taxation............................. 717 162 879
Tax on profit on ordinary activities...................................... (227) (142)(e) (314)
37(f)
18(h)
----- --- -----
Profit on ordinary activities after taxation.............................. 490 75 565
Equity minority interests................................................. (97) -- (97)
----- --- -----
Profit for the period..................................................... 393 75 468
Preference dividends...................................................... (68) -- (68)
----- --- -----
Retained profit for the group and its share of associated undertakings and
joint ventures.......................................................... 325 75 400
----- --- -----
----- --- -----
Basic earnings per share.................................................. 0.57 0.70
----- -----
----- -----
Average number of shares outstanding...................................... 571 571
----- -----
----- -----
</TABLE>
The notes to the unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information are an
integral part of the statements.
103
<PAGE>
AIRTOUCH UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED INCOME STATEMENT
YEAR ENDED DECEMBER 31, 1997
The following unaudited pro forma consolidated income statement for the year
ended December 31, 1997 presents the combined results of operations of AirTouch,
NewVector and MediaOne's interest in PrimeCo as if the merger of these
businesses had taken place on January 1, 1997 after giving effect to the
purchase method of accounting and other merger related adjustments described in
AirTouch's Form 8-K/A filed on April 23, 1998 and after giving effect to the
U.K. GAAP adjustments described in the notes to the unaudited pro forma
consolidated financial information. This information has been prepared from,
should be read in conjunction with, and is supplemental to, the historical
consolidated financial statements and notes thereto of AirTouch and NewVector
which are incorporated by reference into this document.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AIRTOUCH NEWVECTOR
--------------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------------
U.S. GAAP ADJUSTMENT U.S. GAAP ADJUSTMENT
NOTE 3 NOTE 4 U.K. GAAP NOTE 3 NOTE 4 U.K. GAAP
$ $ $ $ $ $
------------- --------------- ------------- ------------- --------------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(IN MILLIONS)
Turnover............... 3,880 -- 3,880 1,428 -- 1,428
Less: joint ventures... (286) -- (286) -- -- --
------ ----- ------ ------ --- ------
Group turnover......... 3,594 -- 3,594 1,428 -- 1,428
------ ----- ------ ------ --- ------
Operating profit....... 705 6(a) 830 357 12(b) 369
119(b)
Share of operating
profit in associated
undertakings......... 217 31(b) 488 3 -- 3
7(d)
233(e)
Share of operating loss
in joint ventures.... (17) 8(e) (9) -- -- --
------ ----- ------ ------ --- ------
Total group operating
profit:
Group and share of
associated
undertakings and
joint ventures... 905 404 1,309 360 12 372
Disposal of fixed asset
investments.......... -- -- -- -- -- --
------ ----- ------ ------ --- ------
Profit on ordinary
activities before
interest............. 905 404 1,309 360 12 372
Net interest payable... (72) (13)(a) (141) (6) -- (6)
(56)(e)
------ ----- ------ ------ --- ------
Profit on ordinary
activities before
taxation............. 833 335 1,168 354 12 366
Tax on profit on
ordinary
activities........... (266) (185)(e) (406) (122) 13(f) (109)
42(f)
3(h)
------ ----- ------ ------ --- ------
Profit on ordinary
activities after
taxation............. 567 195 762 232 25 257
Equity minority
interests............ (119) -- (119) (42) -- (42)
------ ----- ------ ------ --- ------
Profit for the
financial year....... 448 195 643 190 25 215
Preference dividends... (54) -- (54) -- -- --
------ ----- ------ ------ --- ------
Retained profit for the
group and its share
of associated
undertakings and
joint ventures....... 394 195 589 190 25 215
------ ----- ------ ------ --- ------
------ ----- ------ ------ --- ------
Basic earnings per
share................ 0.78
------
------
Average number of
shares
outstanding--basic... 504
------
------
<CAPTION>
PRO FORMA
AIRTOUCH
------------------------------
ADJUSTMENTS
NOTE 5 U.K. GAAP
$ $
--------------- -------------
<S> <C> <C>
Turnover............... 33 5,341
Less: joint ventures... (33) (319)
----- ------
Group turnover......... -- 5,022
----- ------
Operating profit....... (189) 1,010
Share of operating
profit in associated
undertakings......... -- 491
Share of operating loss
in joint ventures.... (112) (131)
(10)
----- ------
Total group operating
profit:
Group and share of
associated
undertakings and
joint ventures... (311) 1,370
Disposal of fixed asset
investments.......... -- --
----- ------
Profit on ordinary
activities before
interest............. (311) 1,370
Net interest payable... (78) (225)
----- ------
Profit on ordinary
activities before
taxation............. (389) 1,145
Tax on profit on
ordinary
activities........... 77 (438)
----- ------
Profit on ordinary
activities after
taxation............. (312) 707
Equity minority
interests............ -- (161)
----- ------
Profit for the
financial year....... (312) 546
Preference dividends... (85) (139)
----- ------
Retained profit for the
group and its share
of associated
undertakings and
joint ventures....... (397) 407
----- ------
----- ------
Basic earnings per
share................ 0.72
------
------
Average number of
shares
outstanding--basic... 563
------
------
</TABLE>
The notes to the unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information are an
integral part of the statements.
104
<PAGE>
AIRTOUCH UNAUDITED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
AT SEPTEMBER 30, 1998
The following unaudited consolidated balance sheet at September 30, 1998 is
derived from the historical consolidated balance sheet of AirTouch at that date,
after giving effect to the U.K. GAAP adjustments described in the notes to the
unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information. This information has
been prepared from, and should be read in conjunction with, the historical
consolidated financial statements and notes thereto of AirTouch, which are
incorporated by reference into this document.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AIRTOUCH
-----------------------------------
U.S.
GAAP ADJUSTMENTS U.K.
NOTE 3 NOTE 4 GAAP
$ $ $
--------- ------------- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
(IN MILLIONS)
FIXED ASSETS
Intangible assets............................................................. 8,560 (3,259)(b) 4,207
(1,094)(f)
Tangible assets............................................................... 3,839 (72)(a) 3,767
Investments in associated undertakings........................................ 1,659 (507)(b) 1,166
22(d)
(8) (f)
Investments in joint ventures
Share of gross assets....................................................... 2,170 (389)(b) 1,781
Share of gross liabilities.................................................. (367) -- (367)
--------- ------ ---------
1,803 (389) 1,414
--------- ------ ---------
Other investments............................................................. 311 (89)(c) 171
(51)(g)
--------- ------ ---------
16,172 (5,447) 10,725
--------- ------ ---------
CURRENT ASSETS
Stocks........................................................................ 96 -- 96
Debtors....................................................................... 1,099 -- 1,099
Cash at bank and in hand...................................................... 17 -- 17
--------- ------ ---------
1,212 -- 1,212
CREDITORS: amounts falling due within one year................................ (1,270) -- (1,270)
--------- ------ ---------
NET CURRENT LIABILITIES....................................................... (58) -- (58)
--------- ------ ---------
TOTAL ASSETS LESS CURRENT LIABILITIES......................................... 16,114 (5,447) 10,667
CREDITORS: amounts falling due after more than one year....................... (2,990) -- (2,990)
PROVISIONS FOR LIABILITIES AND CHARGES........................................ (1,815) 1,815(f) --
--------- ------ ---------
11,309 (3,632) 7,677
--------- ------ ---------
--------- ------ ---------
CAPITAL AND RESERVES
Called up share capital....................................................... 6 -- 6
Share premium account......................................................... 9,993 (38) 9,955
Revaluation reserve........................................................... 31 (31) --
Profit and loss account....................................................... 872 (3,563) (2,691)
--------- ------ ---------
Total shareholders' funds..................................................... 10,902 (3,632) 7,270
Equity minority interests..................................................... 407 -- 407
--------- ------ ---------
11,309 (3,632) 7,677
--------- ------ ---------
--------- ------ ---------
</TABLE>
The notes to the unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information are an
integral part of the statements.
105
<PAGE>
NOTES TO THE UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
1. TRANSLATION OF AIRTOUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
AirTouch presents its financial statements in U.S. dollars. The results of
AirTouch, as restated under U.K. GAAP, have been translated into pounds sterling
at the average rate of $1.6635 to L1.00 for the six months ended September 30,
1998 and $1.6467 to L1.00 for the year ended December 31, 1997.
The AirTouch balance sheet at September 30, 1998 in U.S. dollars, as
restated under U.K. GAAP, has been translated into pounds sterling at $1.6994 to
L1.00.
These translations should not be taken as assurances that the pounds
sterling amounts currently represent U.S. dollar amounts or could be converted
into U.S. dollars at the rate indicated or at any other rate, at any time.
2. PRO FORMA ACQUISITION ADJUSTMENTS
(a) The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information records the
merger as being accounted for as an acquisition with the excess of the fair
value of the consideration over the fair value of net assets acquired being
allocated to goodwill.
The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information assumes that
Vodafone AirTouch will issue 5 Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares, equivalent to
0.5 of a Vodafone AirTouch ADS, and pay $9.00 in cash in exchange for each share
of AirTouch common stock. The total purchase price assumed is based on the
Vodafone ADS price at January 15, 1999 and assumes exercise of all vested
AirTouch stock options and conversion of all shares of AirTouch Class B and
AirTouch Class C preferred stock outstanding at that date. The shares of
AirTouch Class D and E preferred stock are assumed to remain outstanding. As a
result, 307.5 million new Vodafone AirTouch ADSs are assumed to be issued.
The consideration to be paid in the merger on the basis of the assumptions
noted above includes a cash consideration of $5,535 million (L3,257 million)
which will be financed by the new credit facility entered into on April 16, 1999
by Vodafone and AirTouch as well as from generally available funds of Vodafone
and AirTouch. Estimated professional fees of L94 million (primarily legal,
investment bankers' and accountants' fees) related to the acquisition are
assumed to be accounted for as acquisition costs (L74 million) and share issue
costs (L20 million). The pro forma net cash requirement is shown below.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
L
MILLIONS
-----------
<S> <C>
Cash consideration...................................................................................... 3,257
Professional fees....................................................................................... 94
-----
3,351
Proceeds from the exercise of AirTouch common stock options............................................. (256)
-----
Pro forma net cash requirement.......................................................................... 3,095
-----
-----
</TABLE>
The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information also includes the
capitalization of L27 million of the share premium account as a result of the
redenomination of the Vodafone ordinary shares.
A preliminary allocation of the purchase price has been performed for
purposes of the unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information based on
initial appraisal estimates and other valuation studies which are in process and
assumptions which Vodafone believes are reasonable. The final
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<PAGE>
allocation is subject to completion of these studies, which is expected to be
within the next twelve months. However, Vodafone does not expect the differences
between the preliminary and final allocations to have a material impact on
shareholders' equity or profit for the period. A summary, in accordance with
U.K. GAAP, is shown below.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
L
(IN MILLIONS)
-------------
<S> <C>
Cash consideration................................................................................... 3,257
Share consideration (L181 million share capital; L31,668 million share premium)...................... 31,849
Unvested option consideration (gross L728 million, net of tax benefit of L254 million)............... 474
Acquisition costs.................................................................................... 74
------
Total purchase consideration......................................................................... 35,654
Less: fair value of net assets acquired (see below).................................................. (1,175)
------
Goodwill............................................................................................. 34,479
------
------
</TABLE>
The goodwill arising has been allocated and shown within the balance sheet
as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
L
(IN MILLIONS)
-------------
<S> <C>
Intangible assets (acquired subsidiary undertakings)................................................. 17,961
Associated undertakings.............................................................................. 14,825
Joint ventures....................................................................................... 1,693
------
34,479
------
------
</TABLE>
Fair value adjustments relate to intangible fixed assets, fixed asset
investments and the proceeds and resulting tax benefit arising on the exercise
of AirTouch common stock options, together with the recognition that the
AirTouch Class D and E preferred stock will remain outstanding after the merger.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
L
(IN MILLIONS)
-------------
<S> <C>
Book value of net assets in accordance with U.K. GAAP................................................ 4,278
Fair value adjustments:
Elimination of existing intangible assets........................................................ (2,476)
Elimination of existing intangible assets within associated undertakings......................... (8)
Elimination of existing intangible assets within joint ventures.................................. (251)
Revaluation of listed cost investments........................................................... 114
Proceeds upon exercise of AirTouch common stock options.......................................... 256
Tax benefit on exercise of AirTouch common stock options......................................... 188
Net assets attributable to non-equity minority interests post acquisition (AirTouch
Class D and Class E preferred stock)........................................................... (926)
------
Fair value of net assets acquired.................................................................... 1,175
------
------
</TABLE>
Goodwill is amortized as follows:
- L2,371 million over 5 years for goodwill nominally attributable to
customer lists.
- L15,381 million over 40 years for goodwill nominally attributable to U.S.
cellular and paging operations, the licenses of which are assumed to have
a life of at least 40 years without significant cost for renewal.
- L16,727 million over periods ranging from 8 to 40 years, which is the
remaining life of the licenses, for goodwill nominally attributable to non
U.S. cellular operations.
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The pro forma goodwill amortization is L1,922 million in the year ended
March 31, 1998 and L961 million in the six months ended September 30, 1998. For
the year ended March 31, 1998, this goodwill amortization has been allocated to
operating profit (L758 million), share of profit in associated undertakings
(L1,104 million) and share of profit in joint ventures (L60 million). For the
six months ended September 30, 1998, the amounts are L379 million, L552 million
and L30 million, respectively.
(b) Records the change in accounting required in respect of the Vodafone and
AirTouch investments in Europolitan Holdings AB and Misrfone Telecommunications
Company SAE.
Europolitan is a 51% majority owned subsidiary of AirTouch and a 20% equity
accounted investment of Vodafone. On a pro forma consolidated basis Europolitan
is a 71% majority owned subsidiary.
Misrfone is a 30% equity accounted investment of both Vodafone and AirTouch.
On a pro forma consolidated basis Misrfone is a 60% majority owned subsidiary.
These adjustments had no impact on profit for the period.
(c) Records the removal of existing AirTouch intangible asset amortization.
(d) Records interest expense accrued on L3,095 million of pro forma net cash
required to fund the merger, assuming an interest rate of 6.5%. The effect of an
1/8% increase in interest rates would be to increase interest expense by L2
million for the six months ended September 30, 1998 and by L4 million for the
year ended March 31, 1998.
(e) Records the amortization of bank arrangement fees of L65 million applied
against new borrowings, amortized over a period of between two and five years,
the assumed period of borrowing.
(f) Records the tax effects of the relevant pro forma adjustments arising
from the acquisition at the assumed effective rate of 36%. Relevant pro forma
adjustments to the pro forma consolidated income statement include interest,
amortization of goodwill, amortization of bank arrangement fees and the change
in accounting for Europolitan and Misrfone. Other than for the amortization of
goodwill, these adjustments were tax effected at the assumed effective rate
resulting in a net tax benefit of L77 million for the year ended March 31, 1998
and L39 million for the six months ended September 30, 1998.
(g) Records the adjustments to reclassify the AirTouch Class D and Class E
preferred stock and related dividends as non-equity minority interests and
remove the AirTouch Class B and Class C preferred stock dividends.
3. RECLASSIFICATION
Reclassifications have been made to the AirTouch and NewVector historical
financial information presented under U.S. GAAP to conform to Vodafone's
presentation under U.K. GAAP.
The principal income statement reclassifications relate to:
- presentation of minority interests below profit after taxation;
- presentation of foreign exchange income/expense as part of operating
profit; and
- presentation of miscellaneous income/expense as part of operating profit
or disposal of fixed asset investments, as applicable.
The principal balance sheet reclassifications relate to:
- reclassifications of deferred charges/non-current assets to the relevant
U.K. GAAP headings: investments, debtors and provisions for liabilities
and charges;
- reclassification of other current assets to debtors and provisions for
liabilities and charges;
- reclassification of deferred credits to creditors and debtors;
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- reclassification of other reserves to profit and loss account reserves,
revaluation reserve and investments; and
- reclassification of redeemable preferred stock to capital and reserves.
None of these reclassification adjustments has an impact on net income or
shareholders' equity with the exception of the reclassification of restricted
stock and treasury stock to debtors and investments, respectively, which
increases shareholders' equity by $136 million.
4. U.S. TO U.K. GAAP ADJUSTMENTS
Accounting principles generally accepted in the U.K. differ in material
respects from those generally accepted in the U.S. The differences which are
material to restating the historical consolidated financial statements of
AirTouch and NewVector to comply with U.K. GAAP (as set out on pages 103 to 105)
and which are material to reconciling the Vodafone AirTouch unaudited pro forma
consolidated net income and shareholders' equity to U.S. GAAP (as set out in
Note 8 to the unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information) are
described below.
ADJUSTMENTS TO HISTORICAL AIRTOUCH FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:
(a) CAPITALIZED INTEREST
Under U.K. GAAP, the policy of Vodafone is not to include interest on
borrowings used to finance the construction of an asset in the cost of the
asset. Under U.S. GAAP, the interest cost on borrowings used to finance the
construction of an asset is capitalized during the period of construction until
the date that the asset is placed in service. This interest cost is amortized
over the estimated useful life of the related asset.
(b) GOODWILL AND OTHER INTANGIBLES
Under U.K. GAAP, the policy followed by Vodafone prior to the introduction
of Financial Reporting Standard 10, "Goodwill and Intangible Assets" (which is
effective for accounting periods ending on or after December 23, 1998 and has
been adopted by Vodafone on a prospective basis) was to write-off goodwill
against shareholders' equity in the year of acquisition. FRS 10 requires
goodwill to be capitalized and amortized over its estimated useful life.
Under U.S. GAAP, intangibles arising on the acquisition of an equity stake
would be capitalized and amortized over their useful economic lives.
Investments in associated undertakings, under U.S. GAAP, can also include an
element of goodwill in the amount of the excess investment over the acquirer's
share in the fair value of the net assets at the date of the investment. Under
U.K. GAAP, the treatment followed by Vodafone prior to the implementation of FRS
10 was to write-off the excess of the purchase consideration over the fair value
of the stake in the associate acquired against shareholders' equity in the year
of purchase. AirTouch has historically capitalized interest on start up
investments in certain equity investments. Under U.K. GAAP these amounts have
been charged to the profit and loss account in the period incurred.
(c) TREASURY STOCK
Under U.S. GAAP if a company acquires shares of its own capital stock, the
cost of the acquired shares is generally shown as a deduction from capital.
Under U.K. GAAP it is necessary to evaluate the recoverability of the recorded
investment in treasury stock based on the intent of the company with respect to
releasing the shares. Where the company intends to release the shares for option
exercises, the carrying value of treasury stock is evaluated against the
exercise price of outstanding stock options. Amounts in excess of the investment
recorded for treasury stock above the anticipated aggregate exercise price of
stock options to be exercised should be recognized as a loss in the income
statement.
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(d) LICENSE FEE AMORTIZATION
Under U.K. GAAP, Vodafone has adopted a policy of amortizing license fees in
proportion to the expected usage of the network during the start up period and
then on a straight line basis. Under U.S. GAAP, license fees are amortized on a
straight line basis from the date that operations commence to the date the
license expires.
(e) EQUITY ACCOUNTING
U.K. GAAP requires the investor's share of operating profit or loss,
exceptional items and interest income or expense of associated undertakings and
joint ventures to be shown separately from those of the group on the face of the
income statement. The charges for interest and taxation for associated
undertakings and joint ventures may be aggregated within the group interest and
taxation amounts shown on the face of the income statement, but must be
disclosed in the notes to the accounts. For U.S. GAAP, the after-tax profits or
losses (i.e., operating results after exceptional items, interest and taxation)
should be included in the income statement as a single line item.
(f) DEFERRED TAXATION
Under the U.K. GAAP partial provision method, deferred taxation is only
provided where timing differences are expected to reverse in the foreseeable
future. For U.S. GAAP, under the liability method, deferred taxation is provided
for temporary differences between the financial reporting basis and the tax
basis of assets and liabilities at enacted tax rates expected to be in effect
when these amounts are realized or settled.
(g) INVESTMENTS
Under U.K. GAAP, quoted investments held as fixed asset investments are
carried at the lower of cost or recoverable amount. Under U.S. GAAP,
available-for-sale investments are carried at market value with the unrealized
gain or loss from historical cost excluded from earnings and reported in other
comprehensive income and included as a separate line item in share capital and
reserves.
(h) TAX BENEFIT ON OPTION EXERCISES
Under U.K. GAAP, the tax benefit received by AirTouch on the exercise of
share options by employees, being the tax on the difference between the market
value on the date of exercise and the exercise price, is shown as a component of
the tax charge for the period. Under U.S. GAAP, this tax benefit is shown as a
reduction of paid in capital on issue of shares.
ADJUSTMENTS TO HISTORICAL NEWVECTOR FINANCIAL STATEMENTS:
(i) SUMMARY
The differences which are material to restating the historical consolidated
financial statements of NewVector incorporated herein relate to goodwill and
other intangibles and deferred taxation as described in (b) and (f) above.
ADJUSTMENTS TO VODAFONE AIRTOUCH UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED NET INCOME
AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
(j) SUMMARY
The differences which are material to restating the Vodafone AirTouch
unaudited pro forma consolidated net income and shareholders' equity to U.S.
GAAP as set out in Note 8 to the unaudited pro forma consolidated financial
information relate to capitalized interest, goodwill and other intangibles,
treasury stock, license fee amortization and deferred taxation as described in
(a), (b), (c), (d) and (f) together with the adjustment for proposed dividends
and determination of the purchase price described in (k) and (l) below.
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(k) PROPOSED DIVIDENDS
Under U.K. GAAP, final dividends are included in the financial statements
when recommended by the board of directors to the shareholders. Under U.S. GAAP,
all dividends are included in the financial statements when declared by the
board of directors.
(l) DETERMINATION OF THE PURCHASE PRICE
Under U.K. GAAP and U.S. GAAP the purchase price of a transaction accounted
for as an acquisition is based on the fair value of the consideration. In the
case of share consideration, under U.K. GAAP the fair value of such
consideration is based on the share price at completion of the acquisition.
Under U.S. GAAP the fair value of the share consideration is based on the
average share price over a reasonable period of time before and after the
proposed acquisition is announced.
5. NEWVECTOR ACQUISITION ADJUSTMENTS
The pro forma adjustments relating to the merger of AirTouch and NewVector
have been prepared from, and should be read in conjunction with, AirTouch's
current report on Form 8-K/A which was filed on April 23, 1998. The pro forma
adjustments have been restated, where necessary, to comply with U.K. GAAP.
6. COST SAVINGS
Vodafone and AirTouch estimate that the merger will result in after tax net
cash flow savings of approximately L200 million ($340 million) per year by the
year ending March 31, 2002. The unaudited pro forma consolidated financial
information does not contain an adjustment for the anticipated benefits of these
cash flow cost savings. There can be no assurance that anticipated cost savings
will be achieved in the expected amounts or at the times anticipated.
7. EMPLOYMENT AGREEMENTS
AirTouch has entered into employment agreements with a number of directors
and officers of AirTouch. These provide for severance payments, accelerated
vesting of incentive awards, full vesting of supplemental pension benefits and
continued coverage of welfare benefit arrangements after termination date if the
named executive's or officer's employment terminates under certain circumstances
within three years after a change in control of AirTouch. See "THE MERGER--
Interests of Members of AirTouch Board and Management in the Merger." To the
extent that any such amounts become payable, they have not been included in the
unaudited pro forma consolidated financial information.
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<PAGE>
8. RECONCILIATION OF UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL INFORMATION
FROM U.K. GAAP TO U.S. GAAP
The tables below set out the principal differences between the unaudited pro
forma consolidated financial information on a U.K. GAAP basis and on a U.S. GAAP
basis. Notes 4(j), (k) and (l) set out explanations of these differences.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
YEAR ENDED SIX MONTHS ENDED
NET LOSS AND LOSS PER SHARE MARCH 31, 1998 SEPTEMBER 30, 1998
--------------- -------------------
<S> <C> <C>
L L
<CAPTION>
(IN MILLIONS)
<S> <C> <C>
NET LOSS AS REPORTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH U.K. GAAP............................. (1,242) (377)
Items (decreasing)/increasing net income:
Goodwill amortization....................................................... (745) (393)
Profit on disposal of fixed asset investments............................... 14 --
Deferred income taxes....................................................... 641 284
Provisions for treasury stock............................................... -- 38
Minority interests.......................................................... 73 37
Other....................................................................... 2 (4)
------ ------
NET LOSS IN ACCORDANCE WITH U.S. GAAP......................................... (1,257) (415)
------ ------
------ ------
BASIC LOSS PER ORDINARY SHARE IN ACCORDANCE WITH U.S. GAAP.................... (0.20) (0.07)
------ ------
------ ------
</TABLE>
Adjusted earnings per share is not presented because such a presentation is
prohibited under U.S. GAAP.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY SEPTEMBER 30, 1998
------------------
<S> <C>
L
(IN MILLIONS)
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY AS REPORTED IN ACCORDANCE WITH U.K. GAAP............................. 33,078
Items increasing/(decreasing) shareholders' equity:
Goodwill net of amortization (a)........................................................ 14,914
License fee amortization................................................................ (10)
Cumulative deferred income taxes........................................................ (11,304)
Proposed dividends...................................................................... 96
Minority interests...................................................................... (1,541)
-------
SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY IN ACCORDANCE WITH U.S. GAAP......................................... 35,233
-------
-------
</TABLE>
(a) Goodwill net of amortization includes L1,041 million in respect of the
determination of the fair value of the share consideration under U.S. GAAP as
set out in Note 4(l).
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<PAGE>
9. ADJUSTED EARNINGS PER SHARE
Adjusted earnings per share under U.K. GAAP is defined as basic
earnings/(loss) per share before goodwill amortization and profit or loss on the
disposal of fixed asset investments. A reconciliation from basic to adjusted
earnings/(loss) per share is shown below.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SIX MONTHS ENDED
YEAR ENDED MARCH 31, 1998 SEPTEMBER 30, 1998
------------------------------------- -------------------------------------
VODAFONE VODAFONE
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH AIRTOUCH VODAFONE AIRTOUCH AIRTOUCH
----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- ----------- -----------
L PER SHARE
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Basic earnings/(loss) per share.................. 0.14 0.44 (0.20) 0.11 0.42 (0.06)
Goodwill amortization............................ -- 0.21 0.31 -- 0.11 0.15
Profit on disposal of fixed asset investments.... (0.01) -- -- (0.02) -- (0.01)
----- ----- ----------- ----- ----- -----------
Adjusted earnings per share...................... 0.13 0.65 0.11 0.09 0.53 0.08
----- ----- ----------- ----- ----- -----------
----- ----- ----------- ----- ----- -----------
</TABLE>
10. NET DEBT
Pro forma net debt is defined as external borrowings less cash and, as of
September 30, 1998, comprised:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
DEBT CASH NET DEBT
--------- --------- -------------
L MILLION
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Vodafone............................................................................. 1,179 (7) 1,172
AirTouch............................................................................. 1,742 (10) 1,732
--------- --------- -----
2,921 (17) 2,904
Pro forma adjustments:
Consolidation of Misrfone.......................................................... 109 (1) 108
Pro forma net cash requirement..................................................... 3,095 -- 3,095
--------- --------- -----
Pro forma net debt................................................................... 6,125 (18) 6,107
--------- --------- -----
--------- --------- -----
</TABLE>
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DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ORDINARY SHARES
GENERAL
The following information is a summary of the material terms of the ordinary
shares as set out in the Vodafone memorandum and articles of association as
presently in effect and taking account of amendments to the Vodafone memorandum
and articles of association proposed to be adopted at the extraordinary general
meeting of Vodafone shareholders, which would take effect upon the merger
becoming effective. You are encouraged to read the form of memorandum and
articles of association proposed for Vodafone AirTouch after the merger which is
filed as an exhibit to the Registration Statement of which this proxy
statement/prospectus forms a part. See also "DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH
AMERICAN DEPOSITARY SHARES" and "COMPARISON OF RIGHTS OF AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS
AND VODAFONE AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS."
Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares issued in exchange for AirTouch common
stock in the merger will be delivered in the form of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs
which will each represent ten Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares. The amended and
restated deposit agreement among The Bank of New York, Vodafone AirTouch,
AirTouch and you as an ADS holder will govern the rights of holders of Vodafone
AirTouch ADSs as described in "DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH AMERICAN
DEPOSITARY SHARES." You should be aware that these rights are different from the
rights of the holders of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares.
All of the issued Vodafone ordinary shares are fully paid. Vodafone ordinary
shares are represented in certificated form and also in uncertificated form
under "CREST". CREST is an electronic settlement system in the United Kingdom
which enables Vodafone ordinary shares to be evidenced other than by a physical
certificate and transferred electronically rather than by delivery of a physical
certificate. After the merger, all Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares, including
those underlying the Vodafone AirTouch ADSs to be issued in the merger:
- may be represented by certificates in registered form issued (subject to
the terms of issue of the shares) following issuance or receipt of the
form of transfer bearing the appropriate stamp duty by Vodafone AirTouch
registrars, Computershare Services PLC, P.O. Box 82, Caxton House,
Redcliffe Way, Bristol, BS99 7NH, England;
- may be in uncertificated form with the relevant CREST member account being
credited with the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares issued or transferred;
or
- may be in the form of bearer shares if the amendments described below are
adopted at the extraordinary general meeting of Vodafone shareholders.
Vodafone AirTouch ADS holders shall have the same rights with respect to the
Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares represented by their Vodafone AirTouch ADSs,
irrespective of whether those ordinary shares are in registered or bearer form
and, if they are in registered form, irrespective of whether they are
certificated or uncertificated. Under English law, persons who are neither
residents nor nationals of the U.K. may freely hold, vote and transfer Vodafone
AirTouch ordinary shares in the same manner and under the same terms as U.K.
residents or nationals.
REDENOMINATION
Immediately prior to the merger becoming effective, Vodafone proposes to
redenominate the nominal value of the ordinary share capital of Vodafone from a
nominal value of 5p to a nominal value of $0.10. This proposal will require the
approval of Vodafone shareholders at the Vodafone extraordinary general meeting
and confirmation by the High Court of England. A quorum of two
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<PAGE>
persons entitled to vote upon the business to be transacted and the approval of
at least 75% of the votes cast by Vodafone shareholders present in person, or if
on a poll, in person or by proxy, is required at the Vodafone extraordinary
general meeting for the redenomination of Vodafone ordinary share capital and
the amendments to the Vodafone memorandum and articles of association required
to effect it.
The merger is not conditioned upon the redenomination being approved or
becoming effective. If the Vodafone ordinary shares are not redenominated into
U.S. dollars there will be no direct effect on holders of AirTouch common stock.
However, a stamp duty reserve tax liability of 1.5% of the issue price of the
Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares issued to AirTouch stockholders (estimated at
approximately $792 million, based on a price per share of 1,066p (the closing
middle market quotation for Vodafone ordinary shares as quoted in the daily
Official List of the London Stock Exchange on April 20, 1999, the last
practicable date prior to the printing of this document)) would arise and be
jointly payable by Vodafone AirTouch and AirTouch on the issue of Vodafone
AirTouch ADSs. There are no material differences between ordinary shares
denominated in pounds sterling and ordinary shares denominated in U.S. dollars.
At April 20, 1999, 3,099,507,981 Vodafone ordinary shares were issued and
outstanding. At the Vodafone extraordinary general meeting to be held on May 24,
1999, shareholders of Vodafone will, in addition to voting with respect to
approval of the merger, vote on proposals
- to increase the authorized share capital of Vodafone from L200,000,000 to
$816,000,000 and L50,000 (Resolution 18); or
- if the redenomination (Resolution 18) is not effected, to increase the
authorized share capital from L200,000,000 to L408,000,000 (Resolution 3);
and
- in either case, to authorize the directors of Vodafone AirTouch upon the
merger becoming unconditional to allot Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares
in exchange for AirTouch common stock, and after the merger to allot
additional Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares, and to issue some of these
shares for cash, disapplying shareholder rights of preemption in certain
circumstances. See "Preemptive Rights and New Issues of Shares" below.
The approval of these proposals, excluding the redenomination and the
disapplication of shareholder preemption rights, is required as a condition to
the merger. See "THE VODAFONE EXTRAORDINARY GENERAL MEETING."
DIVIDENDS
Holders of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares may, by ordinary resolution,
declare dividends but may not declare dividends in excess of the amount
recommended by the directors. The directors may also pay interim dividends. No
dividend may be paid other than out of profits available for distribution.
Dividends on Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares will be announced and paid in
pounds sterling. Dividends with respect to Vodafone AirTouch ADSs held by the
depositary will be paid in U.S. dollars, and the depositary will distribute them
to the holders of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs.
The Vodafone AirTouch memorandum and articles of association will permit a
scrip dividend scheme or schemes under which holders of Vodafone AirTouch
ordinary shares may be given the opportunity to elect to receive fully paid
Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares instead of cash, or a combination of shares
and cash, with respect to future dividends. The scrip dividend scheme will not
be available to Vodafone AirTouch shareholders resident in the U.S. or Canada.
Holders of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs will be eligible to participate in Vodafone
AirTouch's "Global BuyDIRECT" plan
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administered by The Bank of New York which, among other things, provides for
automatic dividend reinvestments to purchase Vodafone AirTouch ADSs.
VOTING RIGHTS
Vodafone has proposed amendments to its memorandum and articles of
association for approval at the Vodafone extraordinary general meeting to
provide that voting on special and extraordinary resolutions at a general
meeting shall be decided on a poll. On a poll, each shareholder who is entitled
to vote and be present in person or by proxy has one vote for every share held.
See "COMPARISON OF RIGHTS OF AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AND VODAFONE AIRTOUCH
SHAREHOLDERS--Special Meetings of Shareholders." Ordinary resolutions will
continue to be decided on a show of hands, where each shareholder who is present
at the meeting will have one vote regardless of the number of shares held,
unless a poll is demanded. Subject to shareholder approval, it is also intended
that Vodafone's memorandum and articles of association be amended to allow
persons appointed as proxies of shareholders entitled to vote at general
meetings to vote on a show of hands, in addition to proxies' existing rights to
vote on a poll and attend and speak at general meetings. Holders of Vodafone
AirTouch ordinary shares will not have cumulative voting rights. An
extraordinary resolution at a separate meeting of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary
shareholders, requiring an affirmative vote of at least 75% of the votes cast in
person or, if on a poll, in person or by proxy, is necessary under the Vodafone
AirTouch memorandum and articles of association with respect to any proposal to
vary the rights of ordinary shareholders.
Vodafone AirTouch "B" 7% cumulative fixed rate shares will confer no right
to receive notice of, attend or vote at general meetings, except where the
rights attached to the shares are to be varied or abrogated.
Subject to amendments to the Vodafone memorandum and articles of association
proposed for approval at the Vodafone shareholders' meeting becoming effective,
record holders of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs will be entitled to attend, speak and
vote on a poll or a show of hands at any general meeting of Vodafone AirTouch
shareholders by the depositary's appointment of them as proxies with respect to
the underlying Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares represented by their Vodafone
AirTouch ADSs. Alternatively, holders of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs will be entitled
to vote by supplying their voting instructions to the depositary or its nominee,
who will vote the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares underlying their Vodafone
AirTouch ADSs in accordance with their instructions. In addition, holders of
record of ordinary shares may appoint a proxy including a beneficial owner of
those shares to attend, speak and vote on their behalf. See "COMPARISON OF
RIGHTS OF AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AND VODAFONE AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS--Voting
Rights."
LIQUIDATION RIGHTS
In the event of the liquidation of Vodafone AirTouch, after payment of all
liabilities and the deduction of any provision made under Section 719 of the
U.K. Companies Act 1985 or Section 187 of the U.K. Insolvency Act 1986, which
enables the liquidator to make payments to employees or former employees on the
cessation or transfer of Vodafone's business, the holders of the Vodafone "B" 7%
cumulative fixed rate shares would be entitled to a sum equal to the capital
paid up on such shares in priority to holders of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary
shares.
PREEMPTIVE RIGHTS AND NEW ISSUES OF SHARES
Under Section 80 of the U.K. Companies Act, directors are, with certain
exceptions, unable to allot relevant securities without the authority of the
shareholders in a general meeting. Relevant
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securities as defined in the U.K. Companies Act would include Vodafone AirTouch
ordinary shares or securities convertible into Vodafone AirTouch ordinary
shares. In addition, Section 89 of the U.K. Companies Act imposes further
restrictions on the issue of equity securities (as defined in the U.K. Companies
Act, which would include Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares and securities
convertible into ordinary shares) which are, or are to be, paid up wholly in
cash and not first offered to existing shareholders. Vodafone's memorandum and
articles of association allow shareholders to authorize directors for a period
up to 15 months, or, if the memorandum and articles of association are amended
at the extraordinary general meeting, for a period up to 5 years, to allot (1)
relevant securities generally up to an amount fixed by the shareholders and (2)
equity securities for cash other than in connection with a rights issue. In
accordance with institutional investor guidelines, the amount of relevant
securities to be fixed by shareholders is normally restricted to one third of
the existing issued ordinary share capital, and the amount of equity securities
to be issued for cash other than in connection with a rights issue is restricted
to 5% of the existing issued ordinary share capital. At Vodafone's annual
general meeting in 1998, these amounts were fixed at L30,000,000 and L7,713,968,
respectively, and at the Vodafone extraordinary general meeting, Vodafone will
ask its shareholders to change these amounts to $198,549,202 and $30,223,868,
respectively, or, if the redenomination does not take place, to L99,274,601 and
L15,111,934.
The authority referred to above granted to the directors at the annual
general meeting in 1998 expires at the earlier of Vodafone's next annual general
meeting or October 21, 1999.
DISCLOSURE OF INTERESTS IN SHARES
The U.K. Companies Act will give Vodafone AirTouch the power to require
persons who it believes to have, or to have acquired within the previous three
years, an interest in its voting shares, to disclose certain information with
respect to those interests. Failure to supply the information required may lead
to disenfranchisement of the relevant shares and a prohibition on their transfer
and receipt of dividends and payments in respect of those shares. In this
context, the term "interest" is widely defined and will generally include an
interest of any kind whatsoever in voting shares, including any interest of a
holder of a Vodafone AirTouch ADS. See "COMPARISON OF RIGHTS OF AIRTOUCH
STOCKHOLDERS AND VODAFONE AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS--Disclosure of Interests."
CHANGES IN CAPITAL
The Vodafone AirTouch shareholders may pass an ordinary resolution to do any
of the following:
(1) consolidate, or consolidate and then divide, all or any of Vodafone
AirTouch's share capital into new shares of larger nominal amounts than
its existing shares;
(2) cancel any shares which have not, at the date of the relevant
resolution, been subscribed or agreed to be subscribed by any person and
reduce the amount of Vodafone AirTouch's authorized share capital by the
amount of the shares so canceled;
(3) divide some or all of Vodafone AirTouch's shares into shares of a
smaller nominal amount; and
(4) increase Vodafone AirTouch's share capital.
Vodafone AirTouch will also be able to:
(1) with the authority of shareholders by ordinary or special resolution,
depending on the circumstances relating to the purchase, purchase its own
shares; and
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(2) by special resolution and, where required by the U.K. Companies Act,
with the sanction of the court, reduce its share capital, any capital
redemption reserve, share premium account or any other undistributable
reserve.
TRANSFER OF SHARES
Except as described in this paragraph, the Vodafone AirTouch memorandum and
articles of association will not restrict the transferability of Vodafone
AirTouch ordinary shares. Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares will be able to be
transferred by an instrument in any usual form or in any form acceptable to the
directors. The directors may refuse to register a transfer:
(1) if it is of shares which are not fully paid;
(2) if it is not stamped and duly presented for registration, together
with the share certificate and evidence of title as the directors
reasonably require;
(3) if it is with respect to more than one class of shares;
(4) if it is in favor of more than four persons jointly; or
(5) in certain circumstances, if the holder has failed to provide the
required particulars to the investigating power referred to under
"--Disclosure of Interests in Shares" above.
Vodafone AirTouch may not refuse to register transfers of Vodafone AirTouch
ordinary shares if this refusal would prevent dealings in the shares on the
London Stock Exchange from taking place on an open and proper basis. The
registration of transfers may be suspended at any time and for any period as the
directors may determine. The register of shareholders may not be closed for more
than 30 days in any year.
GENERAL MEETINGS AND NOTICES
A shareholder who is not registered on Vodafone AirTouch's register of
shareholders with an address in the U.K. and who has not supplied to Vodafone
AirTouch an address within the U.K. for the purpose of giving notice will not be
entitled to receive notices from Vodafone AirTouch. In certain circumstances,
Vodafone AirTouch will be able to give notices to shareholders by advertisement
in newspapers in the U.K. Holders of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs will be entitled to
receive notices under the terms of the deposit agreement relating to Vodafone
AirTouch ADSs. See "DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH AMERICAN DEPOSITARY
SHARES--Voting Rights." Under the Vodafone AirTouch memorandum and articles of
association, the annual general meeting of shareholders will be held within 15
months after the preceding annual general meeting and at a time and place
determined by the directors.
LIABILITY OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
See "COMPARISON OF RIGHTS OF AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AND VODAFONE AIRTOUCH
SHAREHOLDERS--Liability of Directors and Officers" for a discussion of the
inability of an English company to exempt directors and officers from certain
liabilities.
REGISTRAR
The registrar for Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares after the merger will be
Computershare Services PLC, P.O. Box 82, Caxton House, Redcliffe Way, Bristol,
BS99 7NH.
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DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH AMERICAN DEPOSITARY SHARES
GENERAL
The Bank of New York as depositary will issue Vodafone AirTouch ADSs to
holders of AirTouch common stock and AirTouch Class B preferred stock in
certificated or book-entry form upon completion of the merger. Each ADS will
represent ownership interests in ten Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares and the
right to receive ten Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares which Vodafone AirTouch
will deposit with the custodian, which currently is the London office of The
Bank of New York. Each ADS will also represent securities, cash or other
property deposited with The Bank of New York but not distributed to ADS holders.
The Bank of New York's Corporate Trust Office is located at 101 Barclay Street,
New York, New York, 10286, its principal executive office is located at One Wall
Street, New York, New York 10286, and the custodian's office is located at 46
Berkeley Street, London W1X 6AA, England.
Because The Bank of New York will actually be the legal owner of the
underlying ordinary shares, you will generally exercise the rights of a
shareholder through it, although you will have the option to attend, speak and
vote at shareholder meetings as its proxy, as described below. An amended and
restated deposit agreement among Vodafone AirTouch, AirTouch, The Bank of New
York and you, as an ADS holder, will set out the obligations of The Bank of New
York. New York law will govern the deposit agreement and the Vodafone AirTouch
American depositary receipts evidencing the ADSs.
You may hold ADSs either directly or indirectly through your broker or
financial institution. If you hold ADSs directly, you are an ADS holder. This
description assumes you hold your ADSs directly. If you hold the ADSs
indirectly, you must rely on the procedures of your broker or financial
institution to assert the rights of ADS holders described in this section. You
should consult with your broker or financial institution to find out what those
procedures are.
The following is a summary of the deposit agreement. Because it is a
summary, it does not contain all the information that may be important to you.
For more complete information, you should read the entire agreement and the
Vodafone AirTouch ADR. Copies of the agreement and the Vodafone AirTouch ADR
will be available for inspection at the Corporate Trust Office of the depositary
and at the London office of the custodian set forth above.
SHARE DIVIDENDS AND OTHER DISTRIBUTIONS
HOW WILL YOU RECEIVE DIVIDENDS AND OTHER DISTRIBUTIONS ON THE SHARES?
The Bank of New York will pay to you the cash dividends or other
distributions it or the custodian receives on shares or other deposited
securities, after deducting its fees and expenses. You will receive these
distributions in proportion to the number of ordinary shares your ADSs
represent.
- CASH. The Bank of New York will, as promptly as practicable after payment,
convert any cash dividend or distribution Vodafone AirTouch pays on the
shares, other than any dividend or distribution paid in U.S. dollars, into
U.S. dollars. If that is not possible on a reasonable basis, or if any
approval from any government is needed and cannot be obtained, the
agreement allows The Bank of New York to distribute the pounds sterling
only to those ADS holders to whom it is possible to do so or to hold the
pounds sterling it cannot convert for the account of the ADS holders who
have not been paid. It will not invest the pounds sterling and it will not
be liable for any interest.
Before making a distribution, The Bank of New York will deduct any
withholding taxes that must be paid under applicable laws. See "MATERIAL TAX
CONSEQUENCES." It will distribute only whole U.S. dollars and cents and will
round any fractional amounts to the nearest whole cent.
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- SHARES. The Bank of New York will distribute new ADSs representing any
shares Vodafone AirTouch distributes as a dividend or free distribution,
if Vodafone AirTouch requests it to make this distribution. The Bank of
New York will only distribute whole ADSs. It may sell shares which would
require it to issue a fractional ADS and distribute the net proceeds to
the holders entitled to those shares. If The Bank of New York does not
distribute additional cash or ADSs, each ADS will also represent the new
shares.
- RIGHTS TO RECEIVE ADDITIONAL SHARES. If Vodafone AirTouch offers holders
of securities any rights, including rights to subscribe for additional
shares, The Bank of New York may take actions necessary to make these
rights available to you. If The Bank of New York determines that it is not
legal or not feasible to make these rights available to you, The Bank of
New York may sell the rights and allocate the net proceeds to holders'
accounts. The Bank of New York may allow rights that are not distributed
or sold to lapse.
If The Bank of New York makes rights available to you, upon instruction from
you it will exercise the rights and purchase the shares on your behalf. The
Bank of New York will then deposit the shares and issue ADSs to you. It will
only exercise rights if you pay it the exercise price and any charges the
rights require you to pay.
U.S. securities laws may restrict the sale, deposit, cancellation, and
transfer of the ADSs issued after exercise of rights. In this case, The Bank
of New York may issue the ADSs under a separate restricted deposit agreement
which will contain the same provisions as the agreement, except for changes
needed to put the restrictions in place. The Bank of New York will not offer
you rights unless those rights and the securities to which the rights relate
are either exempt from registration or have been registered under the
Securities Act with respect to a distribution to you. Vodafone AirTouch will
have no obligation to register under the Securities Act those rights or the
securities to which they relate.
- OTHER DISTRIBUTIONS. The Bank of New York will send to you anything else
Vodafone AirTouch distributes on deposited securities by any means The
Bank of New York thinks is legal, fair and practical. If it cannot make
the distribution in that way, The Bank of New York may decide to sell what
Vodafone AirTouch distributed--for example by public or private sale--and
distribute the net proceeds, in the same way as it does with cash.
Vodafone AirTouch will have no obligation to take any other action to permit
the distribution of ADSs, shares, rights or anything else to ADS holders.
DEPOSIT, WITHDRAWAL AND CANCELLATION
HOW DOES THE DEPOSITARY ISSUE ADSS?
The Bank of New York will issue the ADSs that you are entitled to receive in
the merger in certificated or book-entry form, against deposit of the underlying
ordinary shares. The Bank of New York will issue additional ADSs if you or your
broker deposit ordinary shares, along with any appropriate instruments of
transfer, or endorsement, with the custodian. The Bank of New York may also
require you to deliver evidence of any necessary approvals of the governmental
agency in England, if any, which is responsible for regulating currency exchange
at that time, and an agreement transferring your right as a shareholder to
receive dividends or other property. Upon payment of its fees and of any taxes
or charges, such as stamp taxes or stock transfer taxes or fees, The Bank of New
York will register the appropriate number of ADSs in the names you request and
will issue book-entry ADSs or, if you specifically request, deliver the ADSs at
its Corporate Trust Office to the persons you request. THESE TAXES OR CHARGES
WILL NOT BE PAYABLE BY AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS OR BY HOLDERS OF OUTSTANDING
AIRTOUCH STOCK OPTIONS IN CONNECTION WITH THEIR RECEIPT OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH
ADSS PURSUANT TO THE MERGER AGREEMENT.
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HOW DO ADS HOLDERS CANCEL AN ADS AND OBTAIN SHARES?
You may submit a written request to withdraw ordinary shares and turn in
your certificated ADSs, if any, at the Corporate Trust Office of The Bank of New
York. Even though Vodafone may deposit bearer shares in connection with the
merger, any deposited securities that you withdraw will be delivered to you in
registered form. Upon payment of its fees and of any taxes or charges, such as
stamp taxes or stock transfer taxes or fees, The Bank of New York will deliver
the deposited securities underlying the ADSs at the office of the custodian,
except that The Bank of New York may deliver at its Corporate Trust Office any
dividends or distributions with respect to the deposited securities represented
by the ADSs, or any proceeds from the sale of any dividends, distributions or
rights, which may be held by The Bank of New York. Alternatively, at your
request, risk and expense, The Bank of New York will deliver the deposited
securities at its Corporate Trust Office in New York City.
VOTING RIGHTS
HOW DO YOU VOTE?
If you are an ADS holder on a record date fixed by The Bank of New York, you
may attend, speak and vote at Vodafone AirTouch shareholder meetings of holders
of the same class of securities as the ordinary shares represented by your ADSs.
The Bank of New York will enable you to attend, speak and vote at a meeting
by appointing you its proxy for the ordinary shares underlying your ADSs. If you
do not wish to attend a meeting, you may appoint The Bank of New York or another
person as your substitute proxy to attend, speak and vote on your behalf.
If you hold Vodafone AirTouch ADSs through a brokerage account or otherwise
in "street name", you will not be entitled to attend or speak at a meeting, but
you will be able to vote your ADSs through the depositary.
The Bank of New York will notify you of the upcoming meeting and arrange to
deliver certain materials to you. The materials will (1) describe the meeting
time, place and the matters to be voted on and (2) explain how you may instruct
The Bank of New York to vote the shares or deposited securities underlying your
ADSs as you direct if you choose to appoint The Bank of New York as your
substitute proxy, or how you may appoint a different substitute proxy. For
instructions to be valid, The Bank of New York must receive them on or before
the date specified in the instructions. The Bank of New York will, to the extent
practical, subject to applicable law and the provisions of the memorandum and
articles of association of Vodafone AirTouch, vote the underlying ordinary
shares as you instruct. The Bank of New York will only vote as you instruct.
Although the depositary will try to send the notice of the vote reasonably
in advance of the meeting, Vodafone AirTouch will not be able to assure that you
will receive the voting materials in time to ensure that you can attend, speak
and vote at a meeting, instruct The Bank of New York to vote your shares or
appoint a different substitute proxy. In addition, The Bank of New York and its
agents are not responsible for failing to carry out voting instructions or for
the manner of carrying out voting instructions.
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FEES AND EXPENSES
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FOR: ADS HOLDERS MUST PAY:
<S> <C>
- - Each issuance of an ADS, including as a $5.00 (or less) per 100 ADSs
result of a distribution of shares or
rights or other property
- - Each cancellation of an ADS, including if $5.00 (or less) per 100 ADSs
the deposit agreement terminates
- - Transfer and registration of ordinary Registration or transfer fees
shares on Vodafone AirTouch's share
register from your name to the name of
The Bank of New York or its agent when
you deposit or withdraw shares
- - Conversion of pounds sterling to U.S. Expenses of The Bank of New York
dollars
- - Cable, telex and facsimile transmission Expenses of The Bank of New York
expenses, if expressly provided in the
agreement
- - As necessary Certain taxes and governmental charges The
Bank of New York or the custodian has to pay
on any ADS or ordinary share underlying an
ADS, for example, stock transfer taxes,
stamp duty reserve tax or withholding taxes
</TABLE>
NO TAXES OR CHARGES WILL BE PAYABLE BY AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS OR BY HOLDERS
OF OUTSTANDING AIRTOUCH STOCK OPTIONS IN CONNECTION WITH THEIR RECEIPT OF
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ADSS PURSUANT TO THE MERGER AGREEMENT.
PAYMENT OF TAXES
The Bank of New York may deduct the amount of any taxes owed from any
payments to you. It may also restrict the transfer of your ADSs or restrict the
withdrawal of your underlying deposited securities until you pay any taxes owed
on your ADSs or underlying securities. It may also sell deposited securities to
pay any taxes owed. You will remain liable if the proceeds of the sale are not
enough to pay the taxes. If The Bank of New York sells deposited securities, it
will, if appropriate, reduce the number of ADSs held by you to reflect the sale
and pay to you any proceeds, or send to you any property, remaining after it has
paid the taxes.
RECLASSIFICATIONS, RECAPITALIZATIONS AND MERGERS
If Vodafone AirTouch:
- - Changes the nominal or par value of any of the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary
shares
- - Reclassifies, splits or consolidates any of the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary
shares
- - Distributes securities on any of the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares that
are not distributed to you, or
- - Recapitalizes, reorganizes, merges, consolidates, sells its assets, or takes
any similar action,
then:
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(1) The cash, shares or other securities received by The Bank of New York will
become new deposited securities under the deposit agreement, and each ADS
will automatically represent its equal share of the new deposited
securities; and
(2) The Bank of New York will, if Vodafone AirTouch asks it to, issue new ADSs
or ask you to surrender your outstanding ADSs in exchange for new ADSs
identifying the new deposited securities.
DISCLOSURE OF INTERESTS
The obligation of a holder of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares and other
persons with an interest in the shares to disclose information to Vodafone
AirTouch under English law also applies to you and any other persons with an
interest in the ADSs. The consequences for failure to comply with these
provisions will be the same for you and any other persons with an interest as
for a holder of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares. See "DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH ORDINARY SHARES--Disclosure of Interests in Shares."
AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION
HOW MAY THE AGREEMENT BE AMENDED?
Vodafone AirTouch may agree with The Bank of New York to amend the deposit
agreement and the Vodafone AirTouch ADRs without your consent for any reason. If
the amendment adds or increases fees or charges, except for taxes and
governmental charges, or prejudices an important right of ADS holders, it will
only become effective three months after The Bank of New York notifies you of
the amendment. AT THE TIME AN AMENDMENT BECOMES EFFECTIVE, YOU ARE CONSIDERED,
BY CONTINUING TO HOLD YOUR ADS, TO AGREE TO THE AMENDMENT AND TO BE BOUND BY THE
AGREEMENT AS AMENDED. HOWEVER, NO AMENDMENT WILL IMPAIR YOUR RIGHT TO RECEIVE
THE DEPOSITED SECURITIES IN EXCHANGE FOR YOUR ADSS.
HOW MAY THE AGREEMENT BE TERMINATED?
The Bank of New York will terminate the deposit agreement if Vodafone
AirTouch asks it to do so, in which case it must notify you at least 30 days
before termination. The Bank of New York may also terminate the agreement after
notifying you if The Bank of New York informs Vodafone AirTouch that it would
like to resign and Vodafone AirTouch does not appoint a new depositary bank
within 90 days.
If any ADSs remain outstanding after termination, The Bank of New York will
stop registering the transfer of ADSs, will stop distributing dividends to ADS
holders, and will not give any further notices or do anything else under the
deposit agreement other than:
(1) collect dividends and distributions on the deposited securities,
(2) sell rights and other property offered to holders of deposited
securities, and
(3) deliver ordinary shares and other deposited securities upon cancellation
of ADSs.
At any time after six months after termination of the deposit agreement, The
Bank of New York may sell any remaining deposited securities. After that, The
Bank of New York will hold the money it received on the sale, as well as any
cash it is holding under the agreement, for the PRO RATA benefit of the ADS
holders that have not surrendered their ADSs. It will not invest the money and
has no liability for interest. The Bank of New York's only obligations will be
to account for the money and cash. After termination, Vodafone AirTouch's only
obligations will be with respect to indemnification of, and to pay specified
amounts to, The Bank of New York.
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YOUR RIGHT TO RECEIVE THE SHARES UNDERLYING YOUR ADSS
You have the right to cancel your ADSs and withdraw the underlying shares at
any time except:
- due to temporary delays caused by The Bank of New York or Vodafone
AirTouch closing its transfer books, the deposit of ordinary shares in
connection with voting at a shareholders' meeting, or the payment of
dividends;
- when you owe money to pay fees, taxes and similar charges; or
- when it is necessary to prohibit withdrawals in order to comply with any
laws or governmental regulations that apply to ADSs or to the withdrawal
of ordinary shares or other deposited securities.
This right of withdrawal may not be limited by any provision of the
agreement.
LIMITATIONS ON OBLIGATIONS AND LIABILITY TO ADS HOLDERS
The deposit agreement expressly limits the obligations of Vodafone AirTouch
and The Bank of New York. It also limits the liability of Vodafone AirTouch and
The Bank of New York. Vodafone AirTouch and The Bank of New York:
- are only obligated to take the actions specifically set forth in the
deposit agreement without negligence or bad faith;
- are not liable if either of them is prevented or delayed by law, any
provision of the Vodafone AirTouch articles of association or
circumstances beyond their control from performing their obligations under
the agreement;
- are not liable if either of them exercises, or fails to exercise,
discretion permitted under the agreement;
- have no obligation to become involved in a lawsuit or proceeding related
to the ADSs or the deposit agreement on your behalf or on behalf of any
other party unless they are indemnified to their satisfaction; and
- may rely upon any advice of or information from any legal counsel,
accountants, any person depositing ordinary shares, any ADS holder or any
other person whom they believe in good faith is competent to give them
that advice or information.
In the deposit agreement, Vodafone AirTouch and The Bank of New York agree
to indemnify each other under specified circumstances.
REQUIREMENTS FOR DEPOSITARY ACTIONS
Before The Bank of New York will issue or register the transfer of an ADS,
make a distribution on an ADS, or permit withdrawal of ordinary shares, Vodafone
AirTouch or The Bank of New York may require:
- payment of taxes, including stamp duty reserve and stock transfer taxes or
other governmental charges, and transfer or registration fees charged by
third parties for the transfer of any shares or other deposited
securities, as well as the fees and expenses of The Bank of New York;
- production of satisfactory proof of the identity of the person presenting
ordinary shares for deposit or ADSs upon withdrawal, and of the
genuineness of any signature or other information they deem necessary; and
- compliance with regulations The Bank of New York may establish consistent
with the deposit agreement, including presentation of transfer documents.
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The Bank of New York may refuse to deliver, transfer, or register transfers
of ADSs generally when the transfer books of The Bank of New York are closed or
at any time if The Bank of New York or Vodafone AirTouch thinks it advisable to
do so.
PRE-RELEASE OF ADSS
The Bank of New York may issue ADSs before deposit of the underlying
ordinary shares. This is called a pre-release of ADSs. The Bank of New York may
also deliver ordinary shares prior to the receipt and cancellation of
pre-released ADSs even if the ADSs are cancelled before the pre-release
transaction has been closed out. A pre-release is closed out as soon as the
underlying ordinary shares are delivered to The Bank of New York. The Bank of
New York may receive ADSs instead of ordinary shares to close out a pre-release.
The Bank of New York may pre-release ADSs only under the following conditions:
(1) before or at the time of the pre-release, the person to whom the
pre-release is being made must represent to The Bank of New York in writing
that it or its customer, as the case may be,
(a) owns the ordinary shares or ADSs to be remitted,
(b) will assign all beneficial rights, title and interest in the ADSs
or ordinary shares to The Bank of New York in its capacity as the
depositary and for the benefit of the holders of the ADSs and
(c) will not take any action with respect to the ADSs or ordinary
shares that is inconsistent with the assignment of beneficial ownership
(including, without the consent of The Bank of New York, disposing of the
ADSs or ordinary shares) other than in satisfaction of the pre-release;
(2) the pre-release must be fully collateralized with cash or collateral
that The Bank of New York considers appropriate; and
(3) The Bank of New York must be able to close out the pre-release on
not more than five business days' notice.
The pre-release will be subject to whatever indemnities and credit
regulations that The Bank of New York considers appropriate. In addition, The
Bank of New York will limit the number of ADSs that may be outstanding at any
time as a result of pre-release.
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COMPARISON OF RIGHTS OF AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS
AND VODAFONE AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS
As a result of the merger, holders of AirTouch common stock who do not
exercise their appraisal rights will receive Vodafone AirTouch ADSs, each
representing ten ordinary shares of Vodafone AirTouch, a company incorporated
under the laws of England and Wales. The following is a summary comparison of
material differences between the rights of an AirTouch stockholder and a
Vodafone AirTouch shareholder arising from the differences between the corporate
laws of Delaware and of England and Wales, the governing instruments of the two
companies, and the securities laws and regulations governing the two companies.
This summary assumes that all the changes which are proposed at the Vodafone
extraordinary general meeting are approved by Vodafone shareholders. However, it
is not a complete description of the laws of Delaware or of England and Wales,
the other rules or laws referred to in this summary, the AirTouch certificate of
incorporation, the AirTouch by-laws, the certificate of designations of the
AirTouch Class B preferred stock or the Vodafone AirTouch memorandum and
articles of association. For information as to where the governing instruments
of Vodafone, AirTouch and Vodafone AirTouch may be obtained, see "SUMMARY--
Where You Can Find More Information." You are encouraged to obtain and read
these documents.
You should refer to "DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH AMERICAN DEPOSITARY
SHARES" for a description of the Vodafone AirTouch ADSs and a discussion of the
ways in which the rights of holders of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs may differ from
those of holders of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
VOTING RIGHTS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
- - Under Delaware law, each stockholder is - Under English law, a shareholder entitled
entitled to one vote for each share of to vote at a shareholders' meeting is
capital stock held by the stockholder entitled to one vote on a show of hands
unless the certificate of incorporation regardless of the number of shares he or
provides otherwise. The AirTouch she holds; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that any
certificate of incorporation group of five ordinary shareholders (or a
(1) does not alter the voting rights of lower number if provided in the articles
holders of AirTouch common stock, of association) and any shareholder
and representing at least 10% of the
(2) grants the holders of AirTouch Class ordinary shares (or a lower
B preferred stock the right to vote percentage if provided in the
in the election of directors and articles of association) has the
matters coming before any statutory right to demand a vote by
stockholders' meeting on which the a poll, which means that each
holders of AirTouch common stock are ordinary shareholder would be
entitled to vote, on the basis of entitled to one vote for each
four-fifths of a vote for each share ordinary share held by the
held. shareholder.
</TABLE>
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<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
- The Vodafone AirTouch memorandum and
articles of association will provide that
(1) special and extraordinary
resolutions will be conducted on a
poll;
(2) ordinary resolutions will be
conducted on a show of hands, unless
a poll is demanded by
(a) the chairman of the meeting,
(b) at least two shareholders present
that have the right to vote at the
meeting,
(c) any shareholder or shareholders
representing at least 10% of the
voting rights of all shareholders
that have the right to vote at the
meeting, or
(d) any shareholder or shareholders
holding shares that have voting
rights at the meeting on which the
aggregate sum paid on its or their
shares is equal to at least 10% of
the total sum paid on all the
shares having these voting rights
at the meeting; and
(3) proxies of shareholders will be
entitled to attend, speak and vote at
shareholders' meetings on both a show
of hands and on a poll.
Under English law, ordinary resolutions are
decided on a show of hands and must be
approved by at least a majority of the
shareholders present in person, or by proxy
if the memorandum and articles of
association so permit, and voting at a
meeting. If a poll is demanded, the
resolution conducted on a poll must be
approved by holders of at least a majority
of the votes cast at the meeting.
Both special and extraordinary resolutions
require the affirmative vote of at least 75%
of the votes cast at the meeting to be
approved.
</TABLE>
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<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
A holder of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs will be
entitled to attend, speak and vote at
Vodafone AirTouch general shareholder
meetings if the holder holds Vodafone
AirTouch ADSs directly. If, however, a
holder of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs holds ADSs
through a brokerage account or otherwise in
"street name," the holder will not be
entitled to attend or speak at a meeting but
will be able to vote these ADSs by
instructing the depositary, which acts as
custodian for the ADSs. A more complete
description of the voting rights of a holder
of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs is found at
"DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH AMERICAN
DEPOSITARY SHARES--Voting Rights."
- - The AirTouch by-laws provide that the - Under English law, two shareholders
presence of the holders of a majority of present in person constitute a quorum for
the outstanding voting power entitled to purposes of a general meeting, unless the
vote constitutes a quorum for the company's articles of association specify
transaction of business at a stockholders' otherwise. The Vodafone AirTouch
meeting. memorandum and articles of association
- - Under Delaware law, a certificate of will not specify otherwise, except that
incorporation may provide that in the shareholders will not need to be
elections of directors and other specified present in person, and may instead be
circumstances, stockholders are entitled present by proxy, to constitute a quorum,
to cumulate votes. The AirTouch and with respect to adjournments of
certificate of incorporation expressly meetings of holders of the "B" 7%
provides that no stockholder may cumulate cumulative fixed rate shares, in which
votes in the election of directors. case one shareholder will constitute a
quorum.
- Cumulative voting is not recognized under
English law.
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
ACTION BY WRITTEN CONSENT
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Under Delaware law, unless otherwise Under English law, shareholders of a public
provided in the certificate of company such as Vodafone AirTouch are not
incorporation, stockholders may take any permitted to pass resolutions by written
action required or permitted to be taken at consent.
a stockholders' meeting without a meeting if
consented to in writing by the same number
of votes that would be required if the
action were to be taken at a meeting. The
certificate of incorporation of AirTouch,
however, states that stockholders may not
take action by written consent.
</TABLE>
128
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
SHAREHOLDER PROPOSALS AND SHAREHOLDER NOMINATIONS OF DIRECTORS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Under the AirTouch by-laws, any stockholder Under English law, shareholders may demand
may bring business before an annual meeting, that a resolution be voted on at a general
including nominations to the board of meeting if the demand is made
directors, if the stockholder gives timely (1) by shareholders holding at least 5% of
notice in writing of the stockholder's the voting power of shares having a
intention to bring the business before the right to vote on the resolution, or
meeting. To be timely, a stockholder's (2) by at least 100 shareholders holding
notice must be received at the principal shares on which there has been paid up
executive offices of AirTouch, an average sum per shareholder of at
(1) for nominations of directors, at least least L100.
75 days prior to the meeting, and The shareholders must deposit the demand at
(2) for all other matters, the company's registered office at least six
(a) within the time specified in the weeks before the general meeting to which it
federal proxy rules for timely relates.
submission of a stockholder In general, resolutions to appoint directors
proposal for inclusion in the proxy must be put to shareholders on the basis of
statement of AirTouch, or one resolution for each nominated director.
(b) if not within this time, then at A resolution including more than one
least 75 days prior to the meeting. director may be presented to be voted upon
at a general meeting only if the
shareholders have first unanimously approved
so doing.
If, however, less than 90 days' notice or
prior public disclosure of the date of the
meeting is given or made to stockholders, a
stockholder's notice will be timely if it is
received by the earlier of
(1) the close of business on the 15th day
following the day on which notice or
public disclosure of the meeting was
mailed or made, whichever occurs first,
and
(2) two days prior to the date of the
meeting.
In addition, SEC rules allow precatory
resolutions to be included in management's
proxy statement for annual meetings of
shareholders if, among other conditions
required to be met, advance notice is given
to the corporation.
</TABLE>
129
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
SOURCES AND PAYMENT OF DIVIDENDS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Under Delaware law, the board of directors, Subject to the prior rights of holders of
subject to any restrictions in the preferred shares, an English company may pay
corporation's certificate of incorporation, dividends on its ordinary shares only out of
may declare and pay dividends out of its distributable profits, defined as
(1) surplus of the corporation, which is accumulated, realized profits less
defined as net assets less statutory accumulated, realized losses, and not out of
capital, or share capital, which includes share
(2) if no surplus exists, out of the net premiums, which are equal to the excess of
profits of the corporation for the year the consideration for the issue of shares
in which the dividend is declared over the aggregate nominal amount of such
and/or the preceding year; shares. Amounts credited to the share
provided, however, that if the capital of premium account, however, may be used to pay
the corporation has been diminished to an up unissued shares which may then be
amount less than the aggregate amount of distributed to shareholders in proportion to
capital represented by the issued and their holdings.
outstanding stock of all classes having In addition, under English law, Vodafone
preference upon the distribution of assets, AirTouch will not be permitted to make a
the board may not declare and pay dividends distribution if, at the time, the amount of
out of the corporation's net profits until its net assets is less than the aggregate of
the deficiency in the capital has been its issued and paid-up share capital and
repaired. undistributable reserves. Subject to these
The AirTouch certificate of incorporation limitations, the Vodafone AirTouch board
contains no provisions restricting dividends will have the power under the Vodafone
on AirTouch common stock, except that the AirTouch memorandum and articles of
AirTouch preferred stock has preferences association to pay cash dividends.
over the AirTouch common stock with respect
to dividends.
</TABLE>
130
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
RIGHTS OF PURCHASE AND REDEMPTION
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
- - Under Delaware law, any corporation may - Under English law, a company may issue
purchase, redeem and dispose of its own redeemable shares if authorized by its
shares, except that it may not purchase or memorandum and articles of association,
redeem these shares if the capital of the subject to any conditions stated therein.
corporation is impaired at the time or The Vodafone AirTouch memorandum and
would become impaired as a result of the articles of association will permit the
redemption. issuance of redeemable shares.
However, at any time, a corporation may A company may purchase its own shares,
purchase or redeem any of its shares which including any redeemable shares, if the
are entitled upon any distribution of purchase
assets to a preference over another class (1) is authorized by its memorandum and
of its stock if these shares will be articles of association, and
retired upon acquisition or (2) (a) in the case of an open-market
redemption, thereby reducing the purchase, authority to make the
capital of the corporation. market purchase has been given by an
- - In addition, under the AirTouch ordinary resolution of its
certificate of incorporation, AirTouch may shareholders, or
redeem at fair market value outstanding (b) in all other cases, has been
shares of AirTouch stock if the board of approved by a special resolution.
directors of AirTouch reasonably believes - A company may redeem or repurchase shares
that redemption is necessary to prevent only if the shares are fully paid and, in
the loss of, or to secure the the case of public companies, only out of
reinstatement of, any governmental license (1) distributable profits, or
or franchise held by AirTouch or its (2) the proceeds of a new issue of
subsidiaries to conduct their business, if shares made for the purpose of the
the license or franchise is conditioned repurchase or redemption.
upon holders of the AirTouch stock - The London Stock Exchange requires that
possessing prescribed qualifications. where a company has issued shares which
- - AirTouch may not redeem the AirTouch Class are listed on the London Stock Exchange
B preferred stock prior to its maturity. and are convertible into a class of shares
- - On the earlier of its maturity date or the to be repurchased, the holders of the
time immediately prior to mergers or convertible shares must first pass an
consolidations, such as the merger with extraordinary resolution approving any
Vodafone, the AirTouch Class B preferred repurchase at a separate class meeting.
stock automatically converts into AirTouch - The London Stock Exchange requires that
common stock. purchases within a 12-month period of 15%
or more of a company's share capital must
be made through either a tender or partial
offer to all shareholders, at a stated
maximum or fixed price.
- Purchases within a 12-month period below
the 15% threshold may be made through
</TABLE>
131
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
(1) the open market, provided that the
price is not more than 5% above the
average of the middle market
quotations taken from the daily
official list of the London Stock
Exchange for the five trading days
before the purchase date, or
(2) an off-market transaction negotiated
with one or more shareholders.
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
GENERAL MEETINGS OF SHAREHOLDERS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
The AirTouch by-laws provide that all Under the Vodafone AirTouch memorandum and
meetings of stockholders are to be held at articles of association, all general
any place designated by the AirTouch meetings of shareholders will be held at the
board, or if no designation is made, at time and place determined by the directors.
the principal executive office of
AirTouch.
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
SPECIAL MEETINGS OF SHAREHOLDERS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
- Delaware law provides that special - Under English law, an extraordinary
meetings of stockholders may be called general meeting of shareholders may be
by called by
(1) the board of directors, or (1) the board of directors, or
(2) any person or persons authorized by (2) shareholders holding at least
the corporation's certificate of one-tenth of the paid-up capital of
incorporation or by-laws. the company carrying voting rights at
The AirTouch by-laws provide that special general meetings.
meetings of stockholders may be called
only by
(1) the chairman of the AirTouch board
of directors,
(2) the chief executive officer of
AirTouch,
(3) any executive vice president, senior
vice president or vice president of
AirTouch, or
(4) by the AirTouch board.
</TABLE>
132
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
- The AirTouch by-laws provide that - The notice requirements for an ordinary
stockholders entitled to receive notice resolution, an extraordinary resolution
of a special meeting must receive notice and a special resolution are as follows:
of the meeting at least 10 days and not (1) Ordinary resolution--14 clear days'
more than 60 days prior to the meeting. notice,
(2) Extraordinary resolution--14 clear
days' notice,
(3) Special resolution--21 clear days'
notice.
In addition, general meetings may be called
upon shorter notice if
(1) in the case of an annual general
meeting, all the shareholders who are
permitted to attend and vote agree to
the shorter notice, or
(2) in the case of an extraordinary
general meeting, a majority of the
shareholders holding at least 95% by
nominal value of the shares which can
be voted at this meeting so agree.
"Clear days' notice" means calendar days and
excludes
(1) the date of mailing,
(2) the date of receipt of the notice and
(3) the date of the meeting itself.
Vodafone AirTouch's memorandum and articles
of association will provide that documents
sent by mail are considered received 24
hours after mailing and documents sent by
electronic mail or fax on the day sent.
"Extraordinary resolutions" are relatively
unusual and are confined to matters out of
the ordinary course of business, such as a
proposal to wind up the affairs of the
company.
"Special resolutions" generally involve
proposals to
(1) change the name of the company,
(2) alter its capital structure,
(3) change or amend the rights of
shareholders,
(4) permit the company to issue new shares
for cash without applying the
shareholders' preemptive rights,
(5) amend the company's objects, or
purpose, clause in its memorandum of
association,
</TABLE>
133
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
(6) amend the company's articles of
association or
(7) carry out other matters for which the
company's articles of association or
the Companies Act prescribe that a
"special resolution" is required.
All other proposals relating to the ordinary
course of the company's business, such as
the election of directors and transactions,
such as mergers, acquisitions and
dispositions, are the subject of an
"ordinary resolution."
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
APPRAISAL RIGHTS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Delaware law provides stockholders of a While English law does not generally provide
corporation involved in a merger the right for appraisal rights, a shareholder may
to demand and receive payment of the fair apply to a court and the court may specify
value of their stock in certain mergers, terms for the acquisition that it considers
including the Vodafone/AirTouch merger. appropriate as described under
However, appraisal rights are not available "--Shareholders' Votes on Certain
to holders of shares Transactions" below.
(1) listed on a national securities
exchange;
(2) designated as a national market system
security on an interdealer quotation
system operated by the National
Association of Securities Dealers,
Inc.; or
(3) held of record by more than 2,000
stockholders;
unless holders of stock are required to
accept in the merger anything other than any
combination of
(A) shares of stock or depositary receipts
of the surviving corporation in the
merger,
(B) shares of stock or depositary receipts
of another corporation that, at the
effective date of the merger, will be
either
(a) listed on a national securities
exchange,
(b) designated as a national market
system security on an interdealer
quotation system operated by the
National Association of Securities
Dealers, Inc., or
(c) held of record by more than 2,000
holders, or
(C) cash in lieu of fractional shares of
the stock or depositary receipts
received.
</TABLE>
134
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
In addition, appraisal rights are not
available to the holders of shares of the
surviving corporation in the merger, if the
merger does not require the approval of the
stockholders of that corporation.
For a description of the appraisal rights to
which AirTouch stockholders may be entitled
in connection with the Vodafone/AirTouch
merger, see "APPRAISAL RIGHTS."
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
PREEMPTIVE RIGHTS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Under Delaware law, a stockholder is not Under English law, the issuance for cash of
entitled to preemptive rights to subscribe (1) equity securities, being those which,
for additional issuances of stock or any with respect to dividends or capital,
security convertible into stock unless they carry a right to participate beyond a
are specifically granted in the certificate specified amount, or
of incorporation. The AirTouch certificate (2) rights to subscribe for or convert
of incorporation does not provide for into equity securities
preemptive rights. must be offered first to the existing equity
shareholders in proportion to the respective
nominal values of their holdings, unless a
special resolution to the contrary has been
passed by shareholders in a general meeting.
At its annual general meeting each year,
Vodafone has passed, as is the custom of
many English companies listed on the London
Stock Exchange, a resolution to authorize
the board of directors of Vodafone to allot
up to a specified amount of share capital,
generally 5% of issued share capital,
without these preemption rights. The
resolutions to be proposed to the Vodafone
shareholders authorize the board to allot
equity securities with a nominal value of up
to 5% of the expected issued share capital
following the merger without preemption
rights. Vodafone expects that Vodafone
AirTouch will continue this practice after
the merger.
<CAPTION>
</TABLE>
135
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
AMENDMENT OF GOVERNING INSTRUMENTS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
- - Under Delaware law, unless the certificate Under English law, shareholders have the
of incorporation requires a greater vote, power to amend
an amendment to the certificate of (1) the objects, or purpose, clause in a
incorporation requires company's memorandum of association and
(1) the recommendation of the board of (2) any provisions of the company's
directors, articles of association
(2) the affirmative vote of a majority of by special resolution, subject to, in the
the outstanding stock entitled to vote case of amendments to the objects clause of
thereon, and the memorandum of association, the right of
(3) the affirmative vote of a majority of dissenting shareholders to apply to the
the outstanding stock of each class courts to cancel the amendments.
entitled to vote thereon as a class. Under English law, the board of directors is
Under the AirTouch certificate of not authorized to change the memorandum of
incorporation, approval of the holders of association or the articles of association.
shares representing at least 66 2/3% of the Amendments affecting the rights of the
combined voting power of the capital stock holders of any class of shares may,
of AirTouch entitled to vote is required to depending on the rights attached to the
amend or repeal any of the articles of the class and the nature of the amendments, also
AirTouch certificate of incorporation require approval by extraordinary resolution
relating to of the classes affected in separate class
(1) the number of directors of the meetings. See "--Stock Class Rights."
corporation,
(2) the classification of the AirTouch
board,
(3) filling vacancies on the board,
(4) the prohibition on cumulative voting,
(5) indemnification of directors, officers
and employees,
(6) limitation of the liability of
directors,
(7) the prohibition on stockholder action
by written consent,
(8) redemption of AirTouch capital stock
to preserve any license or franchise
of AirTouch,
(9) amendment to the AirTouch by-laws, or
(10) amendment of the AirTouch certificate
of incorporation itself.
- - Under Delaware law, stockholders have the
power to adopt, amend or repeal by-laws
unless the certificate of incorporation
gives those powers to the directors of the
corporation.
The AirTouch certificate of incorporation
and by-laws each provide that
</TABLE>
136
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
(1) the board of directors is authorized
to make, amend or repeal the
by-laws, without any action on the
part of the stockholders, by the
affirmative vote of at least 66 2/3%
of the directors then in office, and
(2) in addition to any other vote
required by law, the stockholders
may make, amend or repeal the
by-laws by the affirmative vote of
the holders representing at least
66 2/3% of the combined voting power
of the outstanding shares of capital
stock entitled to vote.
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
PREFERRED STOCK AND PREFERENCE STOCK
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
The AirTouch certificate of incorporation Subject to the rights of any existing
authorizes the AirTouch board of directors shareholders, the Vodafone AirTouch
(1) to provide for the issuance of one or memorandum and articles of association will
more series of preferred stock, permit Vodafone AirTouch to issue new shares
(2) to issue up to 50,000,000 shares of with any rights granted to holders of such
preferred stock, shares, including rights of priority over
(3) to fix the designation and number of the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares.
the shares to be issued and Vodafone currently has only issued ordinary
(4) to determine or alter for each series, shares, but, upon the redenomination being
its voting powers, designations, approved at the Vodafone extraordinary
preferences and special rights, and general meeting, the Vodafone AirTouch
qualifications, limitations or articles of association will provide for a
restrictions. class of 50,000 "B" 7% cumulative fixed rate
To date, the AirTouch board has authorized shares of nominal value L1 each. The rights
the issuance of five series of preferred of holders of this Vodafone AirTouch
stock, and AirTouch has issued four series preference stock will include the following:
of preferred stock. (1) The right to receive fixed,
The AirTouch Class A preferred stock is cumulative, preferential dividends at a
issuable to holders of rights issued under rate of 7 per cent per annum on the
AirTouch's stockholders' rights plan upon nominal value (L1) of the shares in
the occurrence of triggering events related priority to any dividend payment to
to an acquisition of a large block of holders of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary
AirTouch stock by a third party. To date, shares.
AirTouch has not issued any shares of Class (2) On a winding up of Vodafone AirTouch,
A preferred stock. the right to receive, prior to any
payment to holders of Vodafone AirTouch
ordinary shares, the repayment of the
amounts paid up or treated as paid up
on the nominal amount paid on each
fixed rate share, and any dividend due
for payment or in arrears or proportion
of any dividend for the period up to
the winding up.
(3) Limited rights to attend and vote at
general meetings. Generally, they may
only vote on a resolution that relates
to the rights attached to their shares
(including a resolution relating to a
winding up).
</TABLE>
137
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
Rights of the holders of AirTouch Class A
preferred stock would include:
(1) the right to vote upon each matter
submitted to a vote of AirTouch
stockholders on the basis of 100 votes
per share, subject to adjustment;
(2) the right to receive dividends at the
rate per share of $2.50 per annum,
subject to adjustment, payable
quarterly; and
(3) a per share liquidation preference
over all junior capital stock of
AirTouch of the greater of $100 or 100
times the distribution made per share
of AirTouch common stock.
Rights of the holders of AirTouch Class B
preferred stock include:
(1) The right to vote upon each matter
coming before any meeting of AirTouch
stockholders on the basis of
four-fifths of a vote per share held;
(2) The right to receive dividends at the
rate per share of $1.74 per annum,
subject to adjustment, payable
quarterly;
(3) A liquidation preference over all
junior capital stock of AirTouch,
including AirTouch common stock; and
(4) The right at the option of the holder
to convert each share of AirTouch
Class B preferred stock into 0.806
shares of AirTouch common stock,
subject to adjustment at any time
prior to its maturity date.
Rights of the holders of AirTouch Class C
preferred stock include:
(1) The right to receive cumulative
dividends at the rate per share of
$2.215, subject to adjustment,
payable quarterly;
(2) A liquidation preference equal to $50
per share; and
(3) The right to convert his or her
shares at any time into 1.379 shares
of AirTouch common stock.
Rights of the holders of AirTouch Class D
preferred stock and Class E preferred stock
include:
(1) The right to receive cumulative
dividends at the rate per share of
$51.43, subject to adjustment,
payable quarterly; and
(2) A liquidation preference equal to
$1000 per share.
</TABLE>
138
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
STOCK CLASS RIGHTS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Under Delaware law, any change to the rights The Vodafone AirTouch memorandum and arti-
of holders of the AirTouch common stock or cles of association will provide that
any series of preferred stock would require (1) the rights of any class of shares may
an amendment to the AirTouch certificate of only be changed by an extraordinary
incorporation. resolution passed at a separate class
Delaware law provides that the holders of meeting of the holders of the relevant
shares of a class or series shall be class of shares;
entitled to vote as a class upon a proposed (2) the quorum required for the separate
amendment if the amendment will: class meetings is at least two people
(1) increase or decrease the authorized who hold, or act as proxies for, at
shares of the class or series; least one third of the total nominal
(2) increase or decrease the par value of value of the existing shares of the
the shares of the class or series; or class, except at any adjournment of a
(3) alter or change the powers, class meeting, one shareholder shall
preferences or special rights of the constitute a quorum, regardless of the
shares of the class or series so as to number of shares that person holds; and
affect them adversely. (3) A poll may be demanded at a separate
The certificates of designation of the class meeting by any person present in
AirTouch Class B preferred stock and the person or by proxy and entitled to
AirTouch Class C preferred stock each vote.
provide that the affirmative consent of the
holders of 66 2/3% of the Class B preferred
stock or Class C preferred stock, as
applicable, is required to amend, alter or
repeal any provision of the AirTouch
certificate of incorporation which would
adversely affect the powers, preferences or
rights of the holders of the Class B
preferred stock or Class C preferred stock,
as applicable.
The certificates of designation of the
AirTouch Class D preferred stock and
AirTouch Class E preferred stock each
provide that the affirmative vote of the
holders of at least a majority thereof
actually voting is required (i) to amend,
alter or repeal any provision of the
AirTouch certificate of incorporation which
would materially and adversely affect the
powers, preferences or special rights of the
holders of the shares of Class D preferred
stock or Class E preferred stock, as
applicable, or (ii) for the corporation to
merge into or consolidate with any person
if, as a result of the merger or
consolidation, the Class D preferred stock
or Class E preferred stock, as applicable,
would be converted into, exchanged for or
continue as shares of capital stock of the
surviving corporation or parent of the
surviving corporation with powers,
preferences or special rights materially and
adversely different from the powers,
preferences or other special rights of the
shares of the Class D preferred stock or
Class E preferred stock, as applicable.
</TABLE>
139
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
SHAREHOLDERS' VOTES ON CERTAIN TRANSACTIONS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
- - Generally, under Delaware law, unless the - The Companies Act provides for schemes of
certificate of incorporation provides for arrangement, which are arrangements or
the vote of a larger portion of the stock, compromises between a company and any
completion of a merger, consolidation, class of shareholders or creditors and
sale, lease or exchange of all or used in certain types of reconstructions,
substantially all of a corporation's amalgamations, capital reorganizations or
assets or dissolution requires takeovers. These arrangements require the
(1) the approval of the board of approval at a special meeting convened by
directors, and order of the court of
(2) approval by the vote of the holders of (1) shareholders or creditors representing
a majority of the outstanding stock or, 75% in value of the capital held by or
if the certificate of incorporation debt owed to the class of shareholders
provides for more or less than one vote or creditors or class thereof present
per share, a majority of the votes of and voting, either in person or by
the outstanding stock of a corporation proxy, and
entitled to vote on the matter. (2) the court.
The AirTouch certificate of incorporation Once approved and sanctioned, all
does not provide for the vote of a larger shareholders and creditors of the relevant
portion of the stock for a merger or class are bound by the terms of the
consolidation. scheme, and a dissenting shareholder would
- - Under the rules of the NYSE, acquisitions have no rights comparable to appraisal
involving rights provided under Delaware law.
(1) substantial security holders, or
(2) the issuance of additional shares of - Under the rules of the London Stock
common stock of a listed company Exchange, shareholder approval
totaling 20% or more of the outstanding (1) is usually required for an acquisition
shares of common stock or disposal by a listed company if,
require the approval of the holders of a generally, the size of the company or
majority of the shares voting on the business to be acquired or disposed of
acquisition. Other transactions do not represents 25% or more of the size of
require stockholder approval under the the listed company, and
NYSE rules. (2) may also be required for an
acquisition or disposal of assets
between a listed company and parties,
including
(a) directors of the company or its
subsidiaries,
(b) holders of 10% of the nominal value
of any class of the company's or any
holding company's or its
subsidiary's shares having the right
to vote, or
(c) any of their affiliates
- The U.K. Companies Act also provides
(1) that where a takeover offer is made
for the shares of a U.K. company, and
(2) within four months of the date of the
offer, the offeror has acquired or con-
tracted to acquire at least nine-tenths
in value of the shares of any class to
which the offer relates,
</TABLE>
140
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
the offeror may, within two months of
reaching the nine-tenths level, require
shareholders who do not accept the offer
to transfer their shares on the terms of
the offer. A dissenting shareholder may
object to the transfer or its proposed
terms by applying to the court within six
weeks of the date on which notice of the
transfer was given. In the absence of
fraud or oppression, the court is unlikely
to order that the acquisition not take
effect, but it may specify terms of the
transfer that it finds appropriate. A
minority shareholder is also entitled in
these circumstances, in the alternative,
to require the offeror to acquire his
shares on the terms of the offer.
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
RIGHTS OF INSPECTION
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Delaware law allows any stockholder Except when closed under the provisions of
(1) to inspect the U.K. Companies Act, the register and
(a) the corporation's stock ledger, index of names of shareholders of an English
(b) a list of its stockholders, and company may be inspected during business
(c) its other books and records, and hours
(2) to make copies or extracts of those (1) for free, by its shareholders,
materials during normal business hours, including, in the case of Vodafone
provided that AirTouch after the merger, holders of
(a) the stockholder makes a written Vodafone AirTouch ADSs and
request under oath stating the (2) for a fee by any other person
purpose of his inspection, and In both cases, the documents may be copied
(b) the inspection is for a purpose for a fee.
reasonably related to the person's The shareholders of an English public
interest as a stockholder. company may also inspect, without charge,
during business hours
(1) minutes of meetings of the
shareholders and obtain copies of the
minutes for a fee, and
(2) service contracts of the company's
directors, if the contracts have more
than 12 months unexpired or require
more than 12 months' notice to
terminate.
In addition, the published annual accounts
of a public company are required to be
available for shareholders at a general
meeting and a shareholder is entitled to a
copy of these accounts.
The shareholders of Vodafone AirTouch will
not have rights to inspect the accounting
records of Vodafone AirTouch or minutes of
meetings of its directors.
</TABLE>
141
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
STANDARD OF CONDUCT FOR DIRECTORS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Neither the DGCL, the AirTouch certificate Under English law, a director has a
of incorporation nor the AirTouch by-laws fiduciary duty to act in a company's best
contains any specific provisions setting interest. This duty includes obligations
forth the standard of conduct of a director. (1) not to create an actual or potential
The scope of the fiduciary duties of the conflict between his duty to the
AirTouch board is thus determined by the company and duties to any other person
courts of the State of Delaware. In general, or his personal interests, and
directors have a duty to act without self- (2) to exercise his powers only in
interest, on a well-informed basis and in a accordance with the memorandum and
manner they reasonably believe to be in the articles of association of the company.
best interests of the stockholders. In addition, a director must exercise
reasonable care and skill. The precise scope
of this duty is unclear, but the test
appears to be both subjective (i.e., was the
director's conduct that of a reasonably
diligent person who has the knowledge and
experience of the director) and objective
(i.e., was the director's conduct that of a
reasonably diligent person having the
knowledge and experience that a director
should have).
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
CLASSIFICATION OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Delaware law permits the certificate of English law permits a company to provide for
incorporation or a stockholder-adopted the classification of the board of directors
by-law to provide that directors be divided with respect to the term of office that any
into one, two or three classes, with the director may hold.
term of office of one class of directors to The memorandum and articles of association
expire each year. of Vodafone AirTouch, however, will not
The AirTouch certificate of incorporation provide for a classified board.
provides that, except with respect to
directors elected or appointed in respect of
any class of preferred stock, the AirTouch
board will be divided into three classes of
directors with
(1) the number of directors divided as
evenly as possible among the three
classes, and
(2) each class elected to serve for a term
of three years.
This provision may only be amended or
repealed with the approval of the board and
by the affirmative vote of the holders of
shares representing at least 66 2/3% of the
combined voting power of the outstanding
shares of capital stock of AirTouch entitled
to vote.
</TABLE>
142
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
REMOVAL OF DIRECTORS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Delaware law provides that a director may be Under the Companies Act, shareholders may
removed with or without cause by the holders remove a director without cause by ordinary
of a majority in voting power of the shares resolution, irrespective of any provisions
entitled to vote at an election of of the company's articles of association or
directors, except that service contract the director has with the
(1) members of a classified board of company, provided that 28 clear days' notice
directors may be removed only for of the resolution is given to the company.
cause, unless the certificate of The memorandum and articles of association
incorporation provides otherwise, and of Vodafone AirTouch will provide that all
(2) directors may not be removed in directors who have been in office for three
certain situations in the case of a years or more since they were elected or
corporation having cumulative voting. re-elected will retire from office. These
Neither the AirTouch certificate of retired directors will be eligible for
incorporation nor the AirTouch by-laws reelection.
address the issue of removal of directors or
permit cumulative voting. Accordingly, under
Delaware law and because the AirTouch board
is classified, any director of AirTouch may
be removed only for cause by the affirmative
vote of holders of a majority of the shares
entitled to vote for the election of direc-
tors.
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
VACANCIES ON THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Under Delaware law, unless otherwise Under English law, shareholders may by ordi-
provided in the certificate of incorporation nary resolution, at a meeting at which any
or the by-laws, director retires, appoint a person to be a
(1) vacancies on a board of directors and director
(2) newly created directorships resulting (1) to fill a vacancy, or
from an increase in the number of (2) to become an additional director,
directors subject to any maximum provided in the
may be filled by a majority of the directors company's articles of association.
in office. However, if the holders of any The board of directors has the power to
specific class of stock are entitled to appoint a director to serve until the next
elect directors, vacancies and newly created general meeting of the company, whereupon
directorships of the class may only be the director concerned is required to retire
filled by a majority of the directors but will be eligible for election.
elected by the class. In the case of a
classified board, directors elected to fill
vacancies or newly created directorships
will hold office until the next election of
the class for which the directors have been
chosen.
The AirTouch certificate of incorporation
provides that, subject to the rights of any
class of preferred stockholders,
(1) any vacancies on the AirTouch board or
(2) newly created directorships
will be filled only by the affirmative vote
of a majority of the remaining directors in
office, even if less than a quorum. The
AirTouch certificate of incorporation also
provides that any
</TABLE>
143
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
directors chosen to fill a vacancy or newly
created directorship will serve for the
remainder of the full term of the class in
which the new directorship was created.
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
LIABILITY OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Delaware law permits a corporation's English law does not permit a company to
certificate of incorporation to include a exempt any director or officer of the
provision eliminating or limiting the company or any person employed by the
personal liability of a director to the company as an auditor from any liability
corporation and its stockholders for dam- arising from negligence, default, breach of
ages arising from a breach of fiduciary duty duty or breach of trust against the company.
as a director. However, no provision can
limit the liability of a director for
(1) any breach of his duty of loyalty to
the corporation or its stockholders,
(2) acts or omissions not in good faith or
that involve intentional misconduct or
a knowing violation of law,
(3) intentional or negligent payment of
unlawful dividends or stock purchases
or redemptions, or
(4) any transaction from which he derives
an improper personal benefit.
The AirTouch certificate of incorporation
provides that, to the fullest extent
permitted by Delaware law, a director of
AirTouch will not be liable to AirTouch or
its stockholders for money damages for
breach of fiduciary duty as a director.
<CAPTION>
INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
<S> <C>
Delaware law provides that a corporation may English law does not permit a company to
indemnify any officer or director who is indemnify
made a party to any third party suit or (1) a director or officer of the company,
proceeding on account of being a director, or
officer or employee of the corporation (2) any person employed by the company as
against expenses, including attorney's fees, an auditor
judgments, fines and amounts paid in against any liability arising from
settlement reasonably incurred by him in negligence, default, breach of duty or
connection with the action, through, among breach of trust against the company, EXCEPT
other things, a majority vote of a quorum that indemnification is allowed for
consisting of directors who were not parties liabilities incurred in proceedings in which
to the suit or proceeding if the officer or (1) judgment is entered in favor of the
director director or officer or the director or
(1) acted in good faith and in a manner he officer is acquitted, or
reasonably believed to be in the best (2) the director or officer is held
interests of the corporation, and liable, but the court finds that he
(2) in a criminal proceeding, had no acted honestly and reasonably and that
reasonable cause to believe his conduct relief should be granted.
was unlawful.
</TABLE>
144
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
The AirTouch certificate of incorporation The U.K. Companies Act enables companies to
provides that purchase and maintain insurance for
(1) AirTouch will indemnify its current directors, officers and auditors against any
and former directors and officers to liability arising from negligence, default,
the fullest extent permitted by law, breach of duty or breach of trust against
(2) the indemnification will include the the company.
right to receive advance payment of any Vodafone AirTouch will maintain directors'
expenses incurred in connection with and officers' insurance.
any proceeding, and
(3) upon making a request for
indemnification, the officer or
director will be presumed to be
entitled to indemnification, with
AirTouch having the burden of proof to
overcome that presumption.
The AirTouch certificate of incorporation
also provides that AirTouch will be required
to indemnify a person in connection with a
proceeding initiated by the person only if
the proceeding was authorized by the board
of directors.
AirTouch maintains directors' and officers'
insurance.
<CAPTION>
SHAREHOLDERS' SUITS
<S> <C>
Under Delaware law, a stockholder may While English law only permits a shareholder
initiate a derivative action to enforce a to initiate a lawsuit on behalf of the
right of a corporation if the corporation company in limited circumstances, the U.K.
fails to enforce the right itself. The Companies Act permits a shareholder whose
complaint must name is on the register of shareholders of
(1) state that the plaintiff was a the company to apply for a court order
stockholder at the time of the (1) when the company's affairs are being
transaction of which the plaintiff or have been conducted in a manner
complains or that the plaintiff's unfairly prejudicial to the interests
shares thereafter devolved on the of all or some shareholders, including
plaintiff by operation of law, and the shareholder making the claim or
(2)(a) allege with particularity the (2) when any act or omission of the
efforts made by the plaintiff to company is or would be so prejudicial.
obtain the action the plaintiff A court has wide discretion in granting
desires from the directors or relief, and may authorize civil proceedings
(b) state the reasons for the to be brought in the name of the company by
plaintiff's failure to obtain the a shareholder on terms that the court
action or for not making the directs. Except in these limited
effort. circumstances, English law does not
Additionally, the plaintiff must remain a generally permit class action lawsuits by
stockholder through the duration of the shareholders on behalf of the company or on
derivative suit. The action will not be behalf of other shareholders.
dismissed or compromised without the In order to become a shareholder and enforce
approval of the Delaware Court of Chancery. these rights under English law, holders of
Vodafone AirTouch ADSs will be required to
withdraw from the depositary at least one of
</TABLE>
145
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
their Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares
underlying the Vodafone AirTouch ADSs. See
"DESCRIPTION OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH AMERICAN
DEPOSITARY SHARES--Deposit, Withdrawal and
Cancellation" for information about how to
withdraw Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares.
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
CERTAIN PROVISIONS RELATING TO SHARE ACQUISITIONS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Section 203 of the DGCL prohibits "business In the case of a company listed on the
combinations," including mergers, sales and London Stock Exchange, shareholder approval
leases of assets, issuances of securities must be obtained for certain acquisitions or
and similar transactions by a corporation or disposals of assets involving directors or
a subsidiary with an "interested substantial shareholders or their
stockholder" who beneficially owns 15 associates. In addition, takeovers of public
percent or more of a corporation's voting companies, i.e., generally those listed on
stock, within three years after the person the London Stock Exchange, are regulated by
or entity becomes an interested stockholder, the City Code, which is
unless (1) comprised of non-statutory rules unen-
(1) the transaction that will cause the forceable at law, and
person to become an interested (2) administered by the Takeover Panel, a
stockholder is approved by the board of body consisting of representatives of
directors of the target prior to the City of London financial and
transaction, professional institutions which
(2) after completion of the transaction in oversees the conduct of takeovers.
which the person becomes an interested The City Code provides that when
stockholder, the interested stockholder (1) any person acquires, whether by a
holds at least 85% of the voting stock series of transactions over a period of
of the corporation not including (a) time or not, shares which, together
shares held by officers and directors with shares held or acquired by persons
of interested stockholders and (b) acting in concert with him, represent
shares held by specified employee 30% or more of the voting rights of a
benefit plans or public company, or
(3) after the person becomes an interested (2) any person, together with persons
stockholder, the business combination acting in concert with him, holds at
is approved by the board and holders of least 30% but not more than 50% of the
at least 66 2/3% of the outstanding voting rights and that person, or any
voting stock, excluding shares held by person acting in concert with him,
the interested stockholder. acquires any additional shares,
The merger of Vodafone and AirTouch is not the person must generally make an offer for
governed by the limitations set forth in all of the equity shares of the company,
Section 203. The AirTouch board has whether voting or non-voting, and any class
unanimously approved and adopted the merger of voting non-equity shares of the company
agreement and each of the transactions held by that person or any person acting in
contemplated thereby. concert with him, for cash, or accompanied
by a cash alternative, at not less than the
highest price paid by the person or these
persons for the relevant shares during the
12 months preceding the date of the offer.
</TABLE>
146
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
ANTI-TAKEOVER MEASURES
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Under Delaware law, directors generally have Under English law, directors of a company
a duty to act without self-interest, on a have a fiduciary duty to take only those
well-informed basis and in a manner they actions which are in the interests of the
reasonably believe to be in the best company. Generally, anti-takeover measures
interests of the stockholders. are not actions which fall within this
Nevertheless, a Delaware court will category.
generally apply a policy of judicial Under the City Code, a company is prohibited
deference to board of director decisions to from taking any action without the approval
adopt anti-takeover measures in the face of of its shareholders at a general meeting
a potential takeover where the directors are after
able to show that (1) a BONA FIDE offer has been
(1) they had reasonable grounds for communicated to its board of directors,
believing that there was a danger to or
corporate policy and effectiveness from (2) its board of directors has reason to
an acquisition proposal, and believe that a BONA FIDE offer might be
(2) the board action taken was reasonable imminent,
in relation to the threat posed. which action could effectively result in the
offer being frustrated or in the
shareholders being denied an opportunity to
decide on its merits.
DISCLOSURE OF INTERESTS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Acquirors of AirTouch common stock are The U.K. Companies Act provides that anyone
subject to disclosure requirements under who acquires a material interest or becomes
Section 13(d)(1) of the Exchange Act and aware that he has acquired a material
Rule 13d-1 thereunder, which provide that interest in 3% or more of any class of
any person who becomes the beneficial owner shares of a public company's issued share
of more than 5% of the outstanding AirTouch capital carrying rights to vote at general
common stock must, within 10 days after such shareholder meetings must notify that
acquisition company in writing of his interest within
(1) file a Schedule 13D with the SEC two days. Thereafter, any increase or
disclosing specified information, and decrease of a whole percentage or decrease
(2) send a copy of the Schedule 13D to which reduces the interest to below 3% must
AirTouch and to each securities be notified in writing to the company. This
exchange on which the security is requirement will apply to holders of
traded. Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares.
In addition, the Companies Act provides that
a public company may, by notice in writing,
require a person whom the company knows or
reasonably believes to be or to have been
within the three preceding years, interested
in the company's issued voting share capital
to
(1) confirm whether this is or is not
the case, and
(2) if this is the case, to give further
information that the company requires
relating to his interest and any
other interest in the company's
shares of which he is aware.
The disclosure must be made within a reason-
able period as specified in the relevant
notice which may be as short as one or two
days.
</TABLE>
147
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
Holding a Vodafone AirTouch ADS will gener-
ally constitute holding an interest in the
underlying Vodafone AirTouch ordinary
shares.
When the notice is served by a company on a
person who is or was interested in shares of
the company and that person fails to give
the company any information required by the
notice within the time specified in the
notice, the company may apply to the court
for an order directing that the shares in
question be subject to restrictions
prohibiting, among other things,
(1) any transfer of the shares,
(2) the exercise of voting rights,
(3) the issue of further shares, and
(4) other than in a liquidation,
dividends and other payments.
These restrictions may also void any
agreement to transfer the shares.
The memorandum and articles of association
of Vodafone AirTouch will provide that the
Vodafone AirTouch board may impose the
restrictions on shareholders set forth in
the above paragraph, which restrictions are
normally imposed by the courts in the event
a notice is served.
In addition, after the merger, holders of
Vodafone AirTouch ADSs will be required to
comply with specified U.S. securities law
requirements, including filing Schedules 13D
with respect to their beneficial ownership
of the underlying Vodafone AirTouch ordinary
shares if they beneficially hold more than
5% of the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares
outstanding.
</TABLE>
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<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
LIMITATION ON ENFORCEABILITY OF CIVIL LIABILITIES UNDER U.S. FEDERAL SECURITIES LAWS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
ABILITY TO BRING SUITS, ENFORCE JUDGMENTS AND ENFORCE U.S. LAW
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
AirTouch is a U.S. company incorporated Vodafone AirTouch will be an English company
under the laws of Delaware. All of its located in the U.K. Many of the directors
directors and officers are residents of the and officers of Vodafone AirTouch will be
U.S., and AirTouch has substantial assets residents of the U.K. and not the U.S. In
located in the U.S. As a result, U.S. addition, although Vodafone AirTouch will
investors generally can initiate lawsuits in have substantial assets in the U.S., a large
the U.S. against AirTouch and its directors portion of its assets and of the assets of
and officers and can enforce lawsuits based Vodafone AirTouch and its directors and
on U.S. federal securities laws in U.S. officers will be located outside of the U.S.
courts. As a result, U.S. investors may find it
difficult in a lawsuit based on the civil
liability provisions of the U.S. federal
securities laws
(1) to effect service within the U.S. upon
Vodafone AirTouch and the directors and
officers of Vodafone AirTouch located
outside the U.S.,
(2) to enforce in U.S. courts or outside
the U.S. judgments obtained against
those persons in U.S. courts,
(3) to enforce in U.S. courts judgments
obtained against those persons in
courts in jurisdictions outside the
U.S., and
(4) to enforce against those persons in
the U.K., whether in original actions
or in actions for the enforcement of
judgments of U.S. courts, civil
liabilities based solely upon the U.S.
federal securities laws.
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
SHORT SWING PROFITS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Directors and officers of AirTouch are Directors and officers of Vodafone AirTouch
governed by rules under the Exchange Act will not be subject to the Exchange Act's
that may require directors and officers to "short swing" profit rules because Vodafone
forfeit to AirTouch any "short swing" AirTouch will be a foreign private issuer
profits realized from purchases and sales, under the Exchange Act which will not be
as determined under the Exchange Act and the subject to these rules.
rules thereunder, of AirTouch equity However, directors of Vodafone AirTouch will
securities. be subject to applicable U.K. legislation
prohibiting insider dealing. In addition,
the directors will have to comply with the
Model Code of the London Stock Exchange,
which provides that the considerations taken
into account by directors when deciding
whether or not to deal in shares of the
company of which they are a director must
not be of a short-term nature. The Model
Code also places additional restrictions on
trading during periods prior to announcement
of a company's results.
</TABLE>
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<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
PROXY STATEMENTS AND REPORTS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
NOTICES AND REPORTS TO STOCKHOLDERS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Under the Exchange Act proxy rules, AirTouch As a foreign private issuer, Vodafone
must comply with notice and disclosure AirTouch will not be governed by the
requirements relating to the solicitation of Exchange Act proxy rules. However, Vodafone
proxies for stockholder meetings. AirTouch will be governed by the U.K.
Companies Act and the London Stock Exchange
listing rules regulating notices of
shareholder meetings, which provide that
notice of a shareholder meeting must be
accompanied by
(1) a shareholder circular containing an
explanation of the purpose of the
meeting, and
(2) the recommendations of the board with
respect to actions to be taken.
In addition, Vodafone AirTouch will send
Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shareholders a
copy of its annual report and accounts or a
summary thereof.
In addition, under the listing rules,
Vodafone AirTouch will, depending on their
size and importance, be required to send to
shareholders details relating to certain
acquisitions, dispositions, takeovers,
mergers and offers either made by or in
respect of the company.
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
As a U.S. public company, AirTouch must file As a foreign private issuer with securities
with the SEC, among other reports and listed on the NYSE and registered under
notices: Section 12 of the Exchange Act, Vodafone
(1) an annual report on Form 10-K within AirTouch will be required to publicly file
90 days after the end of each fiscal with the SEC and the NYSE annual reports on
year, Form 20-F within six months after the end of
(2) quarterly reports on Form 10-Q within each fiscal year and reports on Form 6-K.
45 days after the end of each fiscal Nevertheless, pursuant to the merger
quarter, and agreement, Vodafone has agreed that,
(3) current reports on Form 8-K upon the beginning as soon as practicable after the
occurrence of important corporate merger, and in any event within two years,
events. Vodafone AirTouch will generally
(1) make filings with the SEC on Form 6-K
within 45 days after the end of its
first three fiscal quarters in each of
its fiscal years containing the
principal financial information
required by Form 10-Q, and
(2) make any required filings on Form 20-F
with the SEC within 90 days after the
end of each fiscal year.
Vodafone AirTouch will also be required to
notify the London Stock Exchange of
</TABLE>
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<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PROVISIONS CURRENTLY APPLICABLE TO PROVISIONS TO BE APPLICABLE TO VODAFONE
AIRTOUCH STOCKHOLDERS AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS AFTER THE MERGER
<S> <C>
(1) any major new developments relating to
its business which are not public
knowledge and may lead to a substantial
movement in its stock price,
(2) notifications received by it from
persons holding an interest in 3% or
more of any class of the company's
share capital,
(3) any changes in its board of directors,
(4) any purchase or redemption by it of
its own equity securities,
(5) interests of directors in its shares
or debentures, and
(6) changes in its capital structure.
</TABLE>
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DIRECTORS AND MANAGEMENT OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH FOLLOWING THE MERGER
DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS
After the merger, the board of directors of Vodafone AirTouch will consist
of 14 directors, seven of whom AirTouch will designate and seven of whom
Vodafone will designate. The name, age, current position and business experience
of the 14 persons who have been designated to serve on the Vodafone AirTouch
board are set forth below. For a listing of those individuals who have been
designated to serve as executive officers of Vodafone AirTouch, see "THE MERGER
AGREEMENT--Directors and Management of Vodafone AirTouch Following the Merger."
CONTINUING VODAFONE DIRECTORS
LORD MACLAURIN OF KNEBWORTH, DL, age 62, has been a member of the board of
directors of Vodafone since January 1997. He was chairman of the board and chief
executive officer of Tesco Plc from September 1970 to June 1997, a director of
National Westminster Bank Plc from August 1990 to February 1997 and a director
of Gleneagles Hotels Plc from October 1992 to November 1997. Lord MacLaurin is
also a non-executive director and deputy chairman of Whitbread Plc, a director
of Brocket Hall Limited and chairman of the England and Wales Cricket Board.
CHRISTOPHER C. GENT, age 50, has been a member of the board of directors of
Vodafone since August 1985 and the chief executive officer of the company since
January 1997. He was the managing director of Vodafone Limited, a subsidiary of
Vodafone, from January 1985 to December 1996 and a director of Vodafone Fiji
Limited from October 1993 to January 1996 and Vodafone Group (Pty) Limited from
July 1993 to December 1996. Mr. Gent is chairman of the board of most of
Vodafone's principal operating subsidiaries.
PETER R. BAMFORD, age 45, has been a member of Vodafone's board of directors
since April 1998. He is managing director of Vodafone UK Limited and has
responsibility for Vodafone's U.K. operations. Before joining Vodafone in 1997,
Mr. Bamford was a director of WH Smith Group Plc.
JULIAN M. HORN-SMITH, age 50, has been a member of Vodafone's board of
directors since June 1996. He is a managing director of Vodafone Group
International Limited, and a director of many of Vodafone's overseas operating
associates, including Europolitan Holdings AB, Vodafone Group (Pty) Limited and
Vodafone Fiji Limited. Mr. Horn-Smith is also a director of Misrfone
Telecommunications Company SAE and E-Plus Mobilfunk GmbH, and was a director of
Pacific Link Communications Limited from February 1995 to January 1998, Pacific
Link Communications (Holdings) Limited from January 1994 to January 1998,
Skinner Investments Limited from November 1994 to January 1998, Societe
Francaise du Radiotelephone S.A. from December 1997 until April 1998 and Celtel
Limited from March 1996 to October 1998.
KENNETH J. HYDON, age 54, is Vodafone's financial director and has been a
member of Vodafone's board of directors since 1985. He is director of several
subsidiaries of Vodafone, including Vodafone Europe Holdings BV, and promotes
U.S. investor relations. Mr. Hydon was a director of Orbitel Mobile
Communications (Holdings) Limited from May 1987 to May 1996, Orbitel Executive
Trustee Limited from November 1991 to May 1996 and Orbitel Staff Trustee Limited
from November 1991 to May 1996.
PENELOPE L. HUGHES, age 39, has been a member of Vodafone's board of
directors since September 1998. She was president, Great Britain and Ireland, of
the Coca-Cola Company from July 1992 to October 1995 and a director of Next Plc
from September 1996 to September 1998, Coca-Cola Distributors Ireland Limited
from July 1992 to October 1995, Coca-Cola Holdings (UK) Limited from July 1992
to October 1995, Coca-Cola International Sales Limited from July 1992 to October
1995, Coca-Cola Trading Limited from July 1992 to October 1995 and Refreshment
Spectrum Limited from
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July 1992 to October 1995. Mrs. Hughes is also a non-executive director of
Berisford Plc, Body Shop Plc, Mirror Group Plc and a director of Hughes Business
Consulting Limited.
SIR DAVID SCHOLEY, CBE, age 63, has been a member of Vodafone's board since
March 1998. He is also senior advisor to Warburg Dillon Read, a governor of the
British Broadcasting Company and a non-executive director of J Sainsbury Plc,
the Chubb Corporation, U.S.A. and Close Brothers Group Plc. Sir David was
previously a director of Bank of England from March 1981 to May 1998, British
Telecommunications Plc from October 1985 to October 1994, London First from
December 1993 to September 1995, The London School of Economics from December
1993 to April 1996, S G Warburg Group Plc from January 1985 to November 1995 and
The General Electric Company, p.l.c. from December 1992 to February 1995.
DIRECTORS DESIGNATED BY AIRTOUCH
SAM GINN, age 62, has been chairman of the board and chief executive officer
of AirTouch since December 1993. He was chairman of the board, president and
chief executive officer of Pacific Telesis Group from 1988 to 1994 and a
director of Pacific Telesis Group from 1983 to 1994. He was chairman of the
board of Pacific Bell from 1988 to 1994. Mr. Ginn is also a director of Chevron
Corporation, Transamerica Corporation and Hewlett-Packard Company.
ARUN SARIN, age 44, was named president and chief operating officer of
AirTouch in February 1997. Mr. Sarin became a director of AirTouch in July 1995.
He was vice chairman of the board of AirTouch from July 1995 until January 1997.
Mr. Sarin was senior vice president, corporate strategy/ development and
international operations for AirTouch from April 1994 until August 1995. Mr.
Sarin is also a director of The Charles Schwab Corporation and Cisco Systems,
Inc.
MOHAN GYANI, age 47, became executive vice president and chief financial
officer of AirTouch in September 1995. He was vice president, finance and
treasurer of AirTouch from November 1993 until September 1995. Mr. Gyani was
vice president and treasurer of Pacific Telesis Group from March 1993 to
November 1993.
MICHAEL J. BOSKIN, age 53, became a director of AirTouch in August 1996. Dr.
Boskin has been a professor of economics at Stanford University since 1971 and a
principal of Boskin & Co., a consulting firm, since 1980. He was Chairman of the
President's Council of Economic Advisers from February 1989 until January 1993.
Dr. Boskin is also a director of Exxon Corporation, First Health Group Corp. and
Oracle Corporation.
DONALD G. FISHER, age 70, became a director of AirTouch in January 1994. He
is the founder and chairman of the board of The Gap, Inc. and was chief
executive officer of The Gap, Inc. until November 1995. He is a director of The
Charles Schwab Corporation, San Francisco Bay Area Council, the National Retail
Federation and KQED, Inc.
PAUL HAZEN, age 57, became a director of AirTouch in April 1993. He became
chairman and chief executive officer of Wells Fargo & Company and its principal
subsidiary, Wells Fargo Bank, N.A., in January 1995. He was president and chief
operating officer of Wells Fargo & Company and Wells Fargo Bank, N.A. from 1984
to January 1995. Mr. Hazen is also a director of Safeway Inc. and Phelps Dodge
Corporation.
CHARLES R. SCHWAB, age 61, became a director of AirTouch in January 1994. He
is the founder, chairman of the board and co-chief executive officer of The
Charles Schwab Corporation. Mr. Schwab is also a director of The Gap, Inc.,
Transamerica Corporation and Siebel Systems, Inc.
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MEETINGS OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS; COMMITTEES OF THE BOARD
The merger agreement provides that a majority of the meetings of the
Vodafone AirTouch board will be held in England. The committees of the Vodafone
AirTouch board will initially be the same as the current standing committees of
the Vodafone board, which are the audit committee, the nominations committee and
the remuneration committee.
The audit committee will review the application and effectiveness of the
policies and processes of Vodafone AirTouch on matters of internal financial
policy, control and risk. It will review all financial statements of the
Vodafone AirTouch group and related documents to be sent to shareholders prior
to their submission to the Vodafone AirTouch board. The auditors and the
financial director will regularly attend audit committee meetings.
The nominations committee will recommend to the Vodafone AirTouch board
candidates for appointment as directors.
The remuneration committee will determine on behalf of the Vodafone AirTouch
board the broad policy for the remuneration of and terms of engagement of the
chief executive and the executive directors. It will also establish the
principles of the remuneration of other senior executives.
The merger agreement provides that the deputy chairman of Vodafone AirTouch,
Lord MacLaurin of Knebworth, DL, be appointed as chairman of the nominations
committee and that the present chairman of AirTouch, Sam Ginn, be appointed as
chairman of the remuneration committee of Vodafone AirTouch. The Vodafone
AirTouch board will determine the other members of these committees on the
recommendation of the chief executive and the chairman.
STOCK OWNERSHIP OF DIRECTORS, EXECUTIVE OFFICERS AND FIVE PERCENT SHAREHOLDERS
The directors and executive officers of Vodafone AirTouch as a group are
expected to beneficially own less than 0.1% of the issued Vodafone AirTouch
ordinary shares or Vodafone AirTouch ADSs after giving effect to the merger. No
person is expected to own more than 5% of the outstanding Vodafone AirTouch
ordinary shares after the merger.
The following table summarizes as of April 20, 1999, the latest practicable
date prior to the printing of this proxy statement/prospectus, the beneficial
stock ownership of the continuing Vodafone directors and the proposed directors
of Vodafone AirTouch designated by AirTouch before and after the merger assuming
no changes in ownership between that date and the date the merger becomes
effective. This stock ownership information does not include any options to
purchase Vodafone ordinary shares or options to purchase shares of AirTouch
common stock.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
BEFORE THE MERGER AFTER THE MERGER
---------------------------------- ------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NUMBER OF
NUMBER OF VODAFONE NUMBER OF
SHARES OF AIRTOUCH VODAFONE
NUMBER OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ORDINARY AIRTOUCH
ORDINARY SHARES COMMON STOCK SHARES ADSS
------------------- ------------- ----------- -----------
CONTINUING VODAFONE DIRECTORS
Lord MacLaurin of Knebworth, DL...................... 6,500 -- 6,500 --
Christopher Gent..................................... 122,271 -- 122,271 --
Peter Bamford........................................ 1,200 -- 1,200 --
Julian Horn-Smith.................................... 118,018 -- 118,018 --
Kenneth Hydon........................................ 216,535 -- 216,535 --
Penelope Hughes...................................... -- -- -- --
Sir David Scholey, CBE............................... 10,000 -- 10,000 --
</TABLE>
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<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
BEFORE THE MERGER AFTER THE MERGER
---------------------------------- -----------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NUMBER OF
NUMBER OF VODAFONE NUMBER OF
SHARES OF AIRTOUCH VODAFONE
NUMBER OF VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ORDINARY AIRTOUCH
ORDINARY SHARES COMMON STOCK SHARES ADSS
------------------- ------------- ---------- -----------
DIRECTORS DESIGNATED BY AIRTOUCH
Sam Ginn............................................. -- -- 483,828(1) 2,419,140 241,914
Arun Sarin........................................... -- -- 137,441(2) 687,205 68,720
Mohan Gyani.......................................... -- -- 49,686(3) 248,430 24,843
Michael Boskin....................................... -- -- 3,500 17,500 1,750
Donald Fisher........................................ -- -- 49,729(4) 220,000 22,000
Paul Hazen........................................... -- -- 1,541 7,705 770
Charles Schwab....................................... -- -- 4,300(5) 21,500 2,150
</TABLE>
- ------------------------
(1) Includes 414,500 shares subject to phantom stock units that will become
exercisable at the effective time of the merger. Also includes 49,905 shares
held by Mr. Ginn's Family Trust, of which Mr. Ginn is the Trustee, an
aggregate of 2,783 shares held in trust for Mr. Ginn's children and
grandchildren, of which Mr. Ginn is the Trustee, and 95 shares held in the
retirement plan. Also includes 10,000 shares of restricted stock which will
vest in full at the effective time of the merger.
(2) Includes 5,461 shares held in the retirement plan. Also includes 110,000
shares of restricted stock which will vest in full at the effective time of
the merger.
(3) Includes 1,229 shares held in the retirement plan. Also includes 15,000
shares of restricted stock which will vest in full at the effective time of
the merger.
(4) Includes 40,000 shares held by Mr. Fisher's Charitable Trust, of which Mr.
Fisher is the Trustee. Also includes 5,729 phantom stock units which are
convertible into shares of AirTouch common stock on a one-for-one basis.
(5) Includes 300 shares held by Mr. Schwab's Family Trust of which Mr. Schwab is
the Trustee.
As of April 20, 1999, the latest practicable date prior to the printing of
this proxy statement/ prospectus, the continuing Vodafone directors and the
directors designated by AirTouch owned the following outstanding options to
purchase shares of AirTouch common stock and Vodafone ordinary shares:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NUMBER OF NUMBER OF SHARES
VODAFONE OF AIRTOUCH
ORDINARY COMMON
SHARES STOCK UNDER
UNDER OPTION OPTION
-------------- ----------------
<S> <C> <C>
CONTINUING VODAFONE DIRECTORS
Lord MacLaurin of Knebworth, DL................................................ -- --
Christopher Gent............................................................... 462,018(1) --
Peter Bamford.................................................................. 280,395(2) --
Julian Horn-Smith.............................................................. 405,913(3) --
Kenneth Hydon.................................................................. 383,581(4) --
Penelope Hughes................................................................ -- --
Sir David Scholey, CBE......................................................... -- --
</TABLE>
- ------------------------
(1) Includes 19,332 shares awarded under the Vodafone Group Long Term Incentive
Plan.
(2) Includes 9,961 shares awarded under the Vodafone Group Long Term Incentive
Plan.
(3) Includes 10,794 shares awarded under the Vodafone Group Long Term Incentive
Plan.
(4) Includes 10,277 shares awarded under the Vodafone Group Long Term Incentive
Plan.
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<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NUMBER OF NUMBER OF SHARES
VODAFONE OF AIRTOUCH
ORDINARY COMMON
SHARES STOCK UNDER
UNDER OPTION OPTION
-------------- ----------------
<S> <C> <C>
DIRECTORS DESIGNATED BY AIRTOUCH
Sam Ginn....................................................................... -- 2,590,750
Arun Sarin..................................................................... -- 1,063,310
Mohan Gyani.................................................................... -- 656,880
Michael Boskin................................................................. -- 12,000
Donald Fisher.................................................................. -- 14,000
Paul Hazen..................................................................... -- 23,884
Charles Schwab................................................................. -- 27,883
</TABLE>
FEES AND EXPENSES
Pursuant to the merger agreement, Vodafone and AirTouch have agreed to each
pay half of certain expenses. See "THE MERGER AGREEMENT--Expenses."
Estimated fees and expenses incurred or to be incurred by Vodafone in
connection with the merger are approximately $200.0 million, which includes up
to approximately $110.0 million of bank arrangement and associated fees in
connection with the new credit facility which Vodafone and AirTouch entered into
on April 16, 1999. Estimated fees and expenses incurred or to be incurred by
AirTouch in connection with the merger are approximately $70.0 million.
These fees and expenses related to the merger will be financed by the new
credit facility and from generally available funds of Vodafone and AirTouch. The
new facility will also provide the funds to pay the cash consideration in the
merger, refinance part of their existing indebtedness and to finance anticipated
working capital requirements of the combined entity.
Neither Vodafone nor AirTouch will pay any fees or commissions to any broker
or dealer or any person other than Georgeson & Company Inc., Morgan Stanley &
Co. Incorporated and the Exchange Agent for soliciting AirTouch stockholders
pursuant to the merger. Upon request, AirTouch will reimburse brokers, dealers,
commercial banks and trust companies for reasonable and necessary costs and
expenses incurred by them in forwarding materials to their customers.
VALIDITY OF SECURITIES
Stephen R. Scott, Company Secretary of Vodafone, will pass upon the validity
under English law of the Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares to be issued pursuant
to the merger.
EXPERTS
The consolidated financial statements of AirTouch as of December 31, 1998
and 1997 and for each of the three years in the period ended December 31, 1998
incorporated in this proxy statement/ prospectus by reference to AirTouch's
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1998 have been so
incorporated in reliance on the report of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP,
independent accountants, given on the authority of said firm as experts in
auditing and accounting.
The audited consolidated financial statements of Vodafone as of March 31,
1997 and 1998, and for each of the three years in the period ended March 31,
1998 incorporated in this proxy statement/ prospectus by reference to the
Vodafone's Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended March 31, 1998, have
been audited by Deloitte & Touche, independent auditors, as set forth in their
report thereon included therein and incorporated herein by reference. These
consolidated financial statements
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have been so incorporated in reliance upon the report given upon the authority
of the firm as experts in auditing and accounting.
The consolidated financial statements of CMT Partners as of December 31,
1997 and for each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 1997
incorporated in this proxy statement/prospectus by reference to AirTouch's
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1998, except as they
relate to Kansas Combined Cellular, have been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers
LLP, independent accountants, and, insofar as they relate to Kansas Combined
Cellular, by Arthur Andersen LLP, independent accountants, whose reports are
incorporated by reference herein. Such financial statements have been so
incorporated in reliance on the reports of such independent accountants given on
the authority of such firms as experts in auditing and accounting.
The financial statements of U S WEST NewVector Group, Inc. and subsidiaries
as of December 31, 1997 and for each of the three years in the period ended
December 31, 1997 incorporated in this proxy statement/prospectus by reference
to AirTouch's Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed April 23, 1998 have been
audited by Arthur Andersen LLP, independent public accountants, as indicated in
their reports with respect thereto, and are incorporated herein in reliance upon
the authority of said firm as experts in giving said reports.
The financial statements of Mannesmann Mobilfunk GmbH as of December 31,
1997 and 1998, and for each of the years in the three-year period ended December
31, 1998 incorporated in this proxy statement/prospectus by reference to
AirTouch's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1998, have
been so incorporated in reliance upon the report of KPMG Deutsche
Treuhand-Gesellschaft, independent auditors, incorporated by reference herein,
and upon the authority of the firm as experts in auditing and accounting.
U.K. LISTING PARTICULARS AND CIRCULAR
Vodafone will deliver a copy of a document comprising the U.K. listing
particulars relating to Vodafone AirTouch in accordance with the Listing Rules
to the Registrar of Companies in England and Wales for registration and the
document will be available for inspection at the offices of Linklaters & Paines,
One Silk Street, London, EC2Y 8HQ, England, until the date on which the merger
becomes effective. Summary listing particulars are attached as Appendix E to
this proxy statement/prospectus. Neither the listing particulars nor the
documents listed in the summary listing particulars as available for inspection
form part of, or are incorporated into, this proxy statement/prospectus, except
to the extent specifically provided herein. In addition, Vodafone is convening
the extraordinary general meeting of its shareholders, and distributing to its
shareholders a circular relating to the merger, a copy of which will be
available for inspection at the offices of Linklaters & Paines until the merger
becomes effective and at the extraordinary general meeting. The contents of the
circular do not form part of, nor are they incorporated into, this proxy
statement/prospectus.
FUTURE STOCKHOLDER PROPOSALS
If the merger is completed as expected, AirTouch will not hold an annual
meeting of AirTouch stockholders in 1999. If the merger is not approved by
AirTouch stockholders or is not completed for any other reason, AirTouch will
hold a 1999 annual meeting. Stockholder proposals submitted for inclusion in the
proxy statement for the 1999 annual meeting must comply with the requirements of
the SEC. A stockholder proposal generally will be voted on only if the
stockholder or the stockholder's representative attends the 1999 annual meeting
and presents the proposal. Any AirTouch stockholder who intended to submit a
proposal for inclusion in the proxy materials for the 1999 annual meeting was
required to have submitted his or her proposal to AirTouch's executive offices
at least 75 days prior to the meeting, unless less than 90 days' notice of the
date of the meeting is given to AirTouch stockholders, in which case the
proposal must be received by the earlier of 15 days following the day on which
notice or disclosure of the meeting was mailed or made, whichever comes first,
and two days prior to the date of the meeting.
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APPENDIX A
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AGREEMENT AND PLAN
OF MERGER
AMONG
VODAFONE GROUP PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY,
AIRTOUCH COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
AND
APOLLO MERGER SUB, INC.
DATED AS OF JANUARY 15, 1999
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
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<S> <C> <C> <C>
ARTICLE I
THE CLOSING AND THE MERGER
1.1. CLOSING............................................................................................... 1
1.2. THE MERGER............................................................................................ 1
1.3. CONVERSION AND EXCHANGE OF SHARES..................................................................... 2
1.4. SURRENDER AND PAYMENT................................................................................. 6
1.5. AIRTOUCH STOCK OPTIONS................................................................................ 8
1.6. FRACTIONAL VODAFONE DEPOSITARY SHARES................................................................. 9
1.7. THE SURVIVING CORPORATION............................................................................. 9
1.8. LOST, STOLEN OR DESTROYED CERTIFICATES................................................................ 10
1.9. RESERVATION OF RIGHT TO REVISE TRANSACTION............................................................ 10
1.10. DISSENTING SHARES..................................................................................... 10
ARTICLE II
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
2.1. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF AIRTOUCH AND VODAFONE............................................... 11
2.1.1. ORGANIZATION, GOOD STANDING AND QUALIFICATION............................................. 11
2.1.2. CAPITAL STRUCTURE......................................................................... 12
2.1.3. CORPORATE AUTHORITY; APPROVAL AND FAIRNESS................................................ 13
2.1.4. GOVERNMENTAL FILINGS; NO VIOLATIONS....................................................... 14
2.1.5. REPORTS; FINANCIAL STATEMENTS............................................................. 15
2.1.6. ABSENCE OF CERTAIN CHANGES................................................................ 17
2.1.7. LITIGATION AND LIABILITIES................................................................ 17
2.1.8. TAKEOVER STATUTES......................................................................... 18
2.1.9. BROKERS AND FINDERS....................................................................... 18
2.1.10. OWNERSHIP OF OTHER PARTY'S COMMON STOCK................................................... 18
2.1.11. MERGER SUB'S OPERATIONS................................................................... 18
2.1.12. ASSETS.................................................................................... 18
2.1.13. LICENSES.................................................................................. 18
2.1.14. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY..................................................................... 19
2.1.15. YEAR 2000 COMPLIANCE...................................................................... 20
2.1.16. RIGHTS PLAN............................................................................... 20
2.1.17. JOINT VENTURES............................................................................ 20
2.1.18. TAX MATTERS............................................................................... 20
ARTICLE III
COVENANTS
3.1. INTERIM OPERATIONS.................................................................................... 21
3.2. ACQUISITION PROPOSALS................................................................................. 23
3.3. INFORMATION SUPPLIED.................................................................................. 24
3.3.1. REGISTRATION STATEMENT.................................................................... 24
3.4. SHAREHOLDERS MEETINGS................................................................................. 25
3.5. FILINGS; OTHER ACTIONS; NOTIFICATION.................................................................. 26
3.6. ACCESS................................................................................................ 27
</TABLE>
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<TABLE>
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PAGE
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<S> <C> <C> <C>
3.7. PUBLICITY............................................................................................. 28
3.8. BENEFITS AND OTHER MATTERS............................................................................ 28
3.8.1. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS......................................................................... 28
3.8.2. DIRECTOR AND OFFICER INDEMNIFICATION AND INSURANCE........................................ 29
3.8.3. DIRECTORS OF VODAFONE..................................................................... 29
3.8.4. OFFICERS.................................................................................. 30
3.9. EXPENSES.............................................................................................. 30
3.10. TAKEOVER STATUTES..................................................................................... 30
3.11. LISTING APPLICATIONS/ESTABLISHMENT OF VODAFONE DEPOSITARY SHARES...................................... 30
3.12. LETTERS OF ACCOUNTANTS................................................................................ 30
3.13. AGREEMENTS OF AIRTOUCH RULE 145 AFFILIATES............................................................ 31
3.14. ACCOUNTING MATTERS.................................................................................... 31
3.15. TRANSITION PLANNING................................................................................... 31
3.16. VODAFONE SEC FILINGS.................................................................................. 31
3.17. INITIAL MERGER........................................................................................ 31
3.18. NOTIFICATION OF CERTAIN MATTERS....................................................................... 32
3.19. ASSUMPTION OF U.S. WEST INVESTMENT AGREEMENT.......................................................... 32
3.20. AIRTOUCH TREASURY SHARES.............................................................................. 32
ARTICLE IV
CONDITIONS
4.1. CONDITIONS TO EACH PARTY'S OBLIGATION TO EFFECT THE MERGER............................................ 32
4.1.1. SHAREHOLDER APPROVALS..................................................................... 32
4.1.2. REGULATORY CONSENTS....................................................................... 32
4.1.3. LAWS AND ORDERS........................................................................... 33
4.1.4. EFFECTIVENESS OF FORM F-4................................................................. 33
4.1.5. EXCHANGE LISTING.......................................................................... 33
4.1.6. INITIAL MERGER............................................................................ 33
4.2. CONDITIONS TO OBLIGATIONS OF VODAFONE AND MERGER SUB.................................................. 33
4.2.1. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF AIRTOUCH................................................ 33
4.2.2. PERFORMANCE OF OBLIGATIONS OF AIRTOUCH.................................................... 33
4.2.3. CONSENTS UNDER AGREEMENTS................................................................. 33
4.2.4. TAX OPINION............................................................................... 34
4.3. CONDITIONS TO OBLIGATION OF AIRTOUCH.................................................................. 34
4.3.1. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES............................................................ 34
4.3.2. PERFORMANCE OF OBLIGATIONS OF VODAFONE.................................................... 34
4.3.3. CONSENTS UNDER AGREEMENTS................................................................. 34
4.3.4. TAX OPINION............................................................................... 34
4.3.5. SUPPLEMENTAL RESOLUTIONS.................................................................. 35
ARTICLE V
TERMINATION
5.1. TERMINATION BY MUTUAL CONSENT......................................................................... 35
5.2. TERMINATION BY EITHER VODAFONE OR AIRTOUCH............................................................ 35
5.3. TERMINATION BY AIRTOUCH............................................................................... 35
5.4. TERMINATION BY VODAFONE............................................................................... 36
5.5. EFFECT OF TERMINATION AND ABANDONMENT................................................................. 36
</TABLE>
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<TABLE>
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<S> <C> <C> <C>
ARTICLE VI
MISCELLANEOUS AND GENERAL
6.1. SURVIVAL.............................................................................................. 37
6.2. MODIFICATION OR AMENDMENT............................................................................. 37
6.3. WAIVER................................................................................................ 37
6.4. FAILURE OR INDULGENCE NOT WAIVER; REMEDIES CUMULATIVE................................................. 38
6.5. COUNTERPARTS.......................................................................................... 38
6.6. GOVERNING LAW AND VENUE; WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL......................................................... 38
6.7. NOTICES............................................................................................... 38
6.8. ENTIRE AGREEMENT...................................................................................... 40
6.9. OBLIGATIONS OF VODAFONE AND OF AIRTOUCH............................................................... 40
6.10. SEVERABILITY.......................................................................................... 40
6.11. INTERPRETATION........................................................................................ 40
6.12. ASSIGNMENT............................................................................................ 41
6.13. SPECIFIC PERFORMANCE.................................................................................. 41
</TABLE>
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This AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER, dated as of January 15, 1999 (this
"AGREEMENT"), among VODAFONE GROUP PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY ("VODAFONE"), an
English public limited company, AIRTOUCH COMMUNICATIONS, INC., a Delaware
corporation ("AIRTOUCH"), and APOLLO MERGER SUB, INC., a Delaware corporation
and a wholly owned subsidiary of Vodafone ("MERGER SUB" and, together with
AirTouch, the "CONSTITUENT CORPORATIONS");
W I T N E S S E T H :
WHEREAS, the respective Boards of Directors of AirTouch, Vodafone and Merger
Sub (each, a "PARTY" and, together, the "PARTIES") have each determined that it
is in the best interests of their respective companies and stockholders to
combine their respective businesses;
WHEREAS, in furtherance of such combination, the respective Boards of
Directors of AirTouch and Merger Sub have each adopted resolutions approving
this Agreement and declaring its advisability and approving the merger (the
"MERGER") of Merger Sub with and into AirTouch in accordance with the Delaware
General Corporation Law, as amended (the "DGCL"), upon the terms and subject to
the conditions set forth herein;
WHEREAS, it is intended that, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, the
Merger shall qualify as a reorganization under the provisions of Section 368(a)
of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the rules and regulations
promulgated thereunder (the "U.S. CODE"); and
WHEREAS, AirTouch and Vodafone desire to make certain representations,
warranties, covenants and agreements in connection with this Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual representations, warranties,
covenants and agreements contained herein, the Parties hereto, intending to be
legally bound, hereby agree as follows:
ARTICLE I
THE CLOSING AND THE MERGER
1.1. CLOSING. The closing of the Merger (the "CLOSING") shall take place
(i) at 9:00 A.M. (New York time) at the offices of Sullivan & Cromwell, 125
Broad Street, New York, New York, on the third business day after the day on
which the last to be fulfilled or waived of the conditions set forth in Article
IV (other than those conditions that by their nature are to be fulfilled at the
Closing, but subject to the fulfillment or waiver of such conditions) shall be
fulfilled or waived in accordance with this Agreement or (ii) at such other
place or places and time and/or on such other date as AirTouch and Vodafone may
agree in writing (the "CLOSING DATE").
1.2. THE MERGER.
1.2.1. Upon the terms and subject to the conditions set forth in this
Agreement, at the Effective Time (as defined in Section 1.2.2.), Merger Sub
shall be merged with and into AirTouch in accordance with the DGCL,
whereupon the separate existence of Merger Sub shall cease, and AirTouch
shall be the surviving corporation in the Merger (the "SURVIVING
CORPORATION") and shall continue to be governed by the laws of the State of
Delaware, and the separate corporate existence of AirTouch, with all its
rights, privileges, immunities, powers and franchises, shall continue
unaffected by the Merger except as set forth in this Article I. The Merger
shall have the effects specified in the DGCL.
1.2.2. As soon as practicable after satisfaction or waiver (to the
extent herein permitted) of the conditions to the obligations of the Parties
to consummate the Merger set forth in Article IV, AirTouch and Merger Sub
will cause a certificate of merger (the "CERTIFICATE OF MERGER") to be
executed and filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware and
make all other filings or recordings required by applicable law in
connection with the Merger. The Merger shall become effective at such time
as the Certificate of Merger is duly filed with the Secretary of State of
the State of Delaware or at such later time as is specified in the
Certificate of Merger in accordance with the DGCL (the "EFFECTIVE TIME").
<PAGE>
1.3. CONVERSION AND EXCHANGE OF SHARES. At the Effective Time:
1.3.1. Each share of common stock, par value $.01 per share, of
AirTouch ("AIRTOUCH COMMON SHARES") owned by Vodafone, AirTouch or any
Subsidiary (as defined in Section 2.1.1.) of Vodafone or AirTouch
immediately prior to the Effective Time (each, an "EXCLUDED AIRTOUCH SHARE")
shall, by virtue of the Merger, and without any action on the part of the
holder thereof, no longer be outstanding, shall be canceled and retired
without payment of any consideration therefor and shall cease to exist.
1.3.2. Each AirTouch Common Share outstanding immediately prior to the
Effective Time, other than Excluded AirTouch Shares and Dissenting Shares
(as defined in Section 1.10.), shall be converted into and shall be canceled
in exchange for the right to receive (x) (i) five (5) (as such ratio may be
adjusted pursuant to clause (y) or (z) below, the "EXCHANGE RATIO") ordinary
shares of Vodafone, of nominal value 5p each, ("VODAFONE ORDINARY SHARES")
or, if the redenomination of Vodafone's ordinary share capital from pounds
sterling into U.S. dollars (the "REDENOMINATION") is approved by the
requisite vote of shareholders of Vodafone at the meeting convened for such
purpose as contemplated by Section 3.4. and otherwise becomes effective, of
nominal value US$.10 each (as such consideration may be adjusted pursuant to
clause (y) or (z) below, the "STOCK CONSIDERATION"), and (ii) $9.00 in cash,
without interest (as such consideration may be adjusted pursuant to clause
(y) or (z) below, the "CASH CONSIDERATION", and, together with the Stock
Consideration, the "MERGER CONSIDERATION"), PROVIDED, THAT, (y) if the 50%
Test (as defined in Section 3.1.6.) has not been satisfied but the Private
Letter Ruling (as defined in Section 3.1.7.) has been obtained, (i) the
Exchange Ratio shall be reduced by the smallest amount (rounded to the
nearest 1/1000th of a Vodafone Ordinary Share) which Fried, Frank, Harris,
Shriver & Jacobson and Sullivan & Cromwell agree in writing is necessary to
satisfy the 50% Test and (ii) the Cash Consideration shall be increased by
the value of the fraction of a Vodafone Ordinary Share (based on a value of
$17.60 per Vodafone Ordinary Share) represented by the reduction in the
Exchange Ratio pursuant to the foregoing clause (y)(i); PROVIDED FURTHER
that (z) if the Private Letter Ruling has not been obtained, (i) the
Exchange Ratio shall be reduced (provisionally, subject to clause (z)(iv)
and (z)(v) below) by the smallest amount (rounded to the nearest 1/1000th of
a Vodafone Ordinary Share) which Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson
and Sullivan & Cromwell agree in writing is necessary to satisfy the test
set forth in U.S. Treasury Regulation Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(3)(iii) without
obtaining the Private Letter Ruling, (ii) the Cash Consideration shall be
reduced to $0, (iii) in lieu of the Cash Consideration, AirTouch shall,
immediately prior to Closing, pay to each holder of AirTouch Common Shares
an amount in cash for each AirTouch Common Share held by such stockholder
equal to the sum of $9.00 plus the value of the fraction of a Vodafone
Ordinary Share (based on a value of $17.60 per Vodafone Ordinary Share)
represented by the reduction in the Exchange Ratio pursuant to the foregoing
clause (z)(i) (such amount, the "AIRTOUCH CASH PAYMENT"), (iv) if AirTouch
elects to make the AirTouch Cash Payment by means of a pro rata dividend,
the Exchange Ratio shall be as determined in accordance with clause (z)(i),
and (v) if AirTouch elects to make the AirTouch Cash Payment by means of a
pro rata stock redemption, the Exchange Ratio shall be equal to (A) the
number of AirTouch Common Shares outstanding immediately prior to the
Effective Time but prior to the pro rata stock redemption, other than
Excluded AirTouch Shares and Dissenting Shares (the "OUTSTANDING NUMBER")
multiplied by (B) the provisional Exchange Ratio determined pursuant to
clause (z)(i) divided by (C) the Outstanding Number minus the number of
AirTouch Common Shares redeemed in the pro rata redemption. If AirTouch
elects to make the AirTouch Cash Payment by means of a pro rata stock
redemption, it shall establish the procedures, including an appropriate
amendment to its certificate of incorporation, by which such redemption
shall be effected.
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For all purposes of this Agreement, the Cash Consideration shall not be
deemed to include the AirTouch Cash Payment. In no circumstance will the
Cash Consideration or the AirTouch Cash Payment exceed $13.00 per AirTouch
Common Share without the prior consent, at its sole discretion, of the board
of directors of Vodafone (any such consent, the "INCREASED CASH CONSENT").
If AirTouch is required to make the AirTouch Cash Payment, it shall also
make a payment to holders of Class C Preferred Shares (as defined in Section
1.3.6.3.1.3.) on a pro rata basis with the payment made to holders of
AirTouch Common Shares based on the Exchange Rate (as that term is defined
in the Class C Certificate of Designation (as defined in Section
1.3.6.3.1.3.)) in effect on the date immediately preceding such cash
payment.
Any Vodafone Ordinary Shares constituting a portion of the Merger
Consideration shall be delivered to the holders of AirTouch Common Shares
(other than Excluded AirTouch Shares and Dissenting Shares) in the form of
American depositary shares, each representing the right to receive ten
Vodafone Ordinary Shares (the "VODAFONE DEPOSITARY SHARES"). The Vodafone
Depositary Shares may be evidenced by one or more receipts ("VODAFONE ADRS")
issued in accordance with the Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement, dated
as of September 16, 1991, among Vodafone, The Bank of New York, as
Depositary (the "DEPOSITARY"), and the holders from time to time of Vodafone
ADRs, as amended and restated as of the date on which the Effective Time
occurs (the "DEPOSIT AGREEMENT").
At the Effective Time, all AirTouch Common Shares shall no longer be
outstanding, shall be canceled and retired and shall cease to exist, and
each certificate (a "CERTIFICATE") formerly representing any of such
AirTouch Common Shares (other than Excluded AirTouch Shares and Dissenting
Shares) shall thereafter represent only the right to the Merger
Consideration and the AirTouch Cash Payment, if any, and the right, if any,
to receive pursuant to Section 1.6. cash in lieu of fractional Vodafone
Depositary Shares, and any dividend or distribution pursuant to Section
1.4.6., in each case without interest. The Vodafone Ordinary Shares issued
in accordance with Section 1.4.1., and the Vodafone Depositary Shares issued
as provided in this Section 1.3.2., shall be of the same class and shall
have the same rights as the currently outstanding Vodafone Ordinary Shares
and the currently outstanding Vodafone Depositary Shares, respectively
(other than in relation to the nominal value of all Vodafone Ordinary
Shares, which may be US$.10 each, PROVIDED, THAT, the Redenomination takes
effect). At and following the Closing, Vodafone and AirTouch shall be
jointly and severally liable for all stamp duties, stamp duty reserve tax
and other similar taxes and similar levies imposed in connection with the
issuance or creation of the Vodafone Depositary Shares constituting the
Stock Consideration or issued in respect of the conversion of any AirTouch
Stock Options (as defined in Section 1.5.) pursuant to Section 1.5. and any
Vodafone Depositary Shares in connection therewith and any other United
Kingdom stamp duty, stamp duty reserve tax or other similar United Kingdom
governmental charge (or any interest or penalties thereon) that may be
payable by Vodafone and AirTouch pursuant to the Deposit Agreement.
1.3.3. Each share of common stock of Merger Sub, no par value ("MERGER
SUB COMMON STOCK"), outstanding immediately prior to the Effective Time
shall be canceled and, in consideration for the issuance, in accordance with
Section 1.4.1., of the Vodafone Ordinary Shares referred to in Section
1.3.4. below, the Surviving Corporation shall issue to Vodafone at the
Effective Time such number of shares of common stock as is equal to the
number of AirTouch Common Shares outstanding immediately prior to the
Effective Time (other than the Excluded AirTouch Shares and Dissenting
Shares) with the same rights, powers and privileges as the AirTouch Common
Shares and shall constitute the only outstanding shares of common stock of
the Surviving Corporation.
1.3.4. In consideration of the issue to Vodafone by the Surviving
Corporation of shares of common stock of the Surviving Corporation pursuant
to Section 1.3.3. hereof, Vodafone shall issue,
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in accordance with Section 1.4.1., such number of Vodafone Ordinary Shares
as is equal to the number of AirTouch Common Shares outstanding immediately
prior to the Effective Time (other than the Excluded AirTouch Shares and the
Dissenting Shares) multiplied by the Exchange Ratio to permit the issuance
of Vodafone Depositary Shares to the holders of such AirTouch Common Shares
and shall pay the Cash Consideration for the purpose of giving effect to the
delivery of the Merger Consideration referred to in Section 1.3.2. of this
Agreement.
1.3.5. In the event that, subsequent to the date of this Agreement but
prior to the Effective Time, AirTouch changes the number of AirTouch Common
Shares, or Vodafone changes the number of Vodafone Ordinary Shares, issued
and outstanding as a result of a stock split, combination, stock dividend,
recapitalization, redenomination of share capital (other than the
Redenomination) or other similar transaction, the Exchange Ratio and other
items dependent thereon shall be appropriately adjusted.
1.3.6. AIRTOUCH PREFERRED STOCK
1.3.6.1. Prior to the Effective Time, subject to the stockholder
approval described in Section 1.3.6.2., AirTouch will cause AirTouch
Merger Sub, Inc., a newly-formed, wholly owned subsidiary of AirTouch, to
merge with and into AirTouch (the "INITIAL MERGER"), with AirTouch being
the surviving corporation (the "INITIAL SURVIVING CORPORATION").
1.3.6.2. AirTouch will take, or cause to be taken, all action
necessary to submit to the vote of the holders of AirTouch Common Shares
and the holders of the 6% Class B Mandatorily Convertible Preferred
Stock, Series 1996, of AirTouch (the "CLASS B PREFERRED STOCK"), voting
together as a single class, the Initial Merger (the "INITIAL MERGER
VOTE") at the AirTouch Shareholders Meeting (as defined in Section 3.4.).
1.3.6.3. All references in this Agreement to "AIRTOUCH" shall, after
the effective time of the Initial Merger (the "INITIAL MERGER EFFECTIVE
TIME"), mean (and be deemed to refer to) the Initial Surviving
Corporation and all references to AirTouch Common Shares, shall, after
the Initial Merger Effective Time, mean (and be deemed to refer to)
common shares of the Initial Surviving Corporation (the "INITIAL
SURVIVING CORPORATION SHARES" and, individually, an "INITIAL SURVIVING
CORPORATION SHARE").
1.3.6.3.1. In the Initial Merger, at the Initial Merger
Effective Time:
1.3.6.3.1.1. Each AirTouch Common Share outstanding
immediately prior to the Initial Merger Effective Time shall
remain outstanding as an Initial Surviving Corporation Share.
1.3.6.3.1.2. Each share of Class B Preferred Stock ("CLASS B
PREFERRED SHARES" and, individually, a "CLASS B PREFERRED SHARE")
outstanding immediately prior to the Initial Merger Effective
Time shall remain outstanding as a Class B Preferred Share of the
Initial Surviving Corporation, without any change to the powers,
preferences or special rights of such Class B Preferred Share
provided for in the Certificate of Designation, Preferences and
Rights of 6.00% Class B Mandatorily Convertible Preferred Stock,
Series 1996 of AirTouch (the "CLASS B CERTIFICATE OF
DESIGNATION").
1.3.6.3.1.3. Each share of 4.25% Class C Convertible
Preferred Stock, Series 1996, par value $.01 per share, of
AirTouch ("CLASS C PREFERRED SHARES", and, individually, a "CLASS
C PREFERRED SHARE") outstanding immediately prior to the Initial
Merger Effective Time shall remain outstanding as a Class C
Preferred Share of the Initial Surviving Corporation, without any
change to the powers, preferences or special rights of such Class
C Preferred Share provided for in the Certificate of Designation
of 4.25% Class C Convertible Preferred Stock, Series 1996, of
AirTouch
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(the "CLASS C CERTIFICATE OF DESIGNATION"); PROVIDED, HOWEVER,
that such Class C Certificate of Designation shall provide that
holders of the Class C Preferred Shares shall be entitled to vote
together with the holders of Initial Surviving Corporation Shares
on all matters to be voted upon by holders of Initial Surviving
Corporation Shares, and that for each Class C Preferred Share
held, holders of Class C Preferred Shares shall be entitled to
that number of votes equal to the number of Initial Surviving
Corporation Shares into which such Class C Preferred Share is
convertible pursuant to Section 4 of the Class C Certificate of
Designation as of the record date applicable to such vote.
1.3.6.3.1.4. Each share of 5.143% Class D Cumulative
Preferred Stock, Series 1998, par value $.01 per share, of
AirTouch ("CLASS D PREFERRED SHARES", and, individually, a "CLASS
D PREFERRED SHARE"), except for such shares with respect to which
appraisal rights under Section 262 of the DGCL have been
asserted, outstanding immediately prior to the Initial Merger
Effective Time shall remain outstanding as a Class D Preferred
Share of the Initial Surviving Corporation, without any change to
the powers, preferences or special rights of such Class D
Preferred Shares provided for in the Certificate of Designation
of 5.143% Class D Convertible Preferred Stock, Series 1998, of
AirTouch (the "CLASS D CERTIFICATE OF DESIGNATION"); PROVIDED,
HOWEVER, that such Class D Certificate of Designation shall
provide (i) that holders of the Class D Preferred Shares shall be
entitled to vote together with the holders of Initial Surviving
Corporation Shares on all matters to be voted upon by holders of
Initial Surviving Corporation Shares on the basis of 12 votes for
each Class D Preferred Share held; and (ii) that Section 4(b) of
the Class D Certificate of Designation shall be amended to remove
the ability of the Company to redeem the Class D Preferred Stock
prior to the Maturity Date (as defined in the Class D Certificate
of Designation).
1.3.6.3.1.5. Each share of 5.143% Class E Cumulative
Preferred Stock, Series 1998, par value $.01 per share, of
AirTouch ("CLASS E PREFERRED SHARES", and, individually, a "CLASS
E PREFERRED SHARE"), except for such shares with respect to which
appraisal rights under Section 262 of the DGCL have been
asserted, outstanding immediately prior to the Initial Merger
Effective Time shall remain outstanding as a Class E Preferred
Share of the Initial Surviving Corporation, without any change to
the powers, preferences or special rights of such Class E
Preferred Shares provided for in the Certificate of Designation
of 5.143% Class E Cumulative Preferred Stock, Series 1998, of
AirTouch (the "CLASS E CERTIFICATE OF DESIGNATION"); PROVIDED,
HOWEVER, that such Class E Certificate of Designation shall
provide (i) that holders of the Class E Preferred Shares shall be
entitled to vote together with the holders of Initial Surviving
Corporation Shares on all matters to be voted upon by holders of
Initial Surviving Corporation Shares on the basis of 12 votes for
each Class E Preferred Share held; (ii) that the Maturity Date
(as defined in the Class E Certificate of Designation) shall be
April 1, 2020; and (iii) that the dividends payable pursuant to
Section 3 of the Class E Certificate of Designation shall be,
during the period beginning April 1, 2018 and ending April 1,
2020, at an amount per Class E Preferred Share of $87.90 per
annum as adjusted pursuant thereto.
1.3.6.3.2. In the Merger, at the Effective Time:
1.3.6.3.2.1. Each AirTouch Common Share outstanding
immediately prior to the Effective Time (other than AirTouch
Excluded Shares and Dissenting Shares) shall be treated in
accordance with Section 1.3.2.
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1.3.6.3.2.2. Immediately prior to the Effective Time, each
Class B Preferred Share then outstanding shall, in accordance
with paragraphs (a) and (e) of Section 4 of the Class B
Certificate of Designation, convert automatically into AirTouch
Common Shares at the Maturity Exchange Rate (as such term is
defined in the Class B Certificate of Designation) in effect on
the Maturity Date (as such term is defined in the Class B
Certificate of Designation), and all accrued and unpaid dividends
on such Class B Preferred Shares (other than previously declared
dividends payable to the holder of record on a prior date)
through and including the Maturity Date, whether or not declared,
shall be due and payable in cash out of funds of the Initial
Surviving Corporation legally available for the payment of
dividends, as more fully provided in the Class B Certificate of
Designation.
1.3.6.3.2.3. Each Class C Preferred Share of the Initial
Surviving Corporation outstanding immediately prior to the
Effective Time, shall remain outstanding as a Class C Preferred
Share of the Surviving Corporation. Each Class C Preferred Share
shall, after consummation of the Merger, be subject to conversion
or redemption, at the election of the holder of such Class C
Preferred Share, in accordance with clauses (i), (ii), and (iii)
of Section 4(e) of the Class C Certificate of Designation.
1.3.6.3.2.4. Each Class D Preferred Share of the Initial
Surviving Corporation outstanding immediately prior to the
Effective Time (other than Dissenting Shares), shall remain
outstanding as a Class D Preferred Share of the Surviving
Corporation.
1.3.6.3.2.5. Each Class E Preferred Share of the Initial
Surviving Corporation outstanding immediately prior to the
Effective Time (other than Dissenting Shares), shall remain
outstanding as a Class E Preferred Share of the Surviving
Corporation.
1.4. SURRENDER AND PAYMENT.
1.4.1. Prior to the Effective Time, Vodafone shall appoint ChaseMellon
Shareholder Services, L.L.C. or, failing ChaseMellon Shareholder Services,
L.L.C., another agent reasonably acceptable to AirTouch as exchange agent
(the "EXCHANGE AGENT") for the purpose of exchanging Certificates for
Vodafone Depositary Shares and the Cash Consideration. Promptly after the
Effective Time, the Surviving Corporation will send, or will cause the
Exchange Agent to send, to each holder of record as of the Effective Time of
AirTouch Common Shares (other than holders of Excluded AirTouch Shares and
Dissenting Shares), a letter of transmittal, in such form as AirTouch and
Vodafone may reasonably agree, for use in effecting delivery of AirTouch
Common Shares to the Exchange Agent. AirTouch shall act as agent for each
holder of record as of the Effective Time of AirTouch Common Shares (other
than Excluded AirTouch Shares and Dissenting Shares) (each, a "RECORD
HOLDER") and shall enter into an agreement (the "NOMINEE AGREEMENT") with
Vodafone and Boston EquiServe Limited Partnership. Vodafone shall issue the
Vodafone Ordinary Shares referred to in Section 1.3.4. in registered form to
Boston EquiServe Limited Partnership or its nominee (the "NOMINEE"), as
nominee and agent for and on behalf of the Record Holders for the issuance
of Vodafone Depositary Shares in accordance with this Article I, subject to
the terms and conditions of this Agreement and the Nominee Agreement. If the
Redenomination shall take effect immediately prior to the Effective Time,
then, unless the directors of Vodafone shall determine not to issue Bearer
Shares (as defined below), the Nominee shall, as agent for the Record
Holders, instruct Vodafone to, and Vodafone shall, strike the name of the
Nominee from the Vodafone Shareholders' register, create share warrants to
bearer ("BEARER SHARES") in respect of such Vodafone Ordinary Shares and
deliver the Bearer Shares to the Nominee, as agent as aforesaid. Regardless
of whether the Redenomination takes effect and the Bearer Shares are
delivered to the Nominee, the Vodafone Ordinary Shares in registered form or
the Bearer Shares, as the case may be, held by the Nominee shall be
deposited by the Nominee or on its behalf with
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the Depositary (or as it may direct) as and when required for the issuance
of Vodafone Depositary Shares in accordance with this Article I. To the
extent required, the Exchange Agent will requisition from the Depositary,
from time to time, such number of Vodafone Depositary Shares, in such
denominations as the Exchange Agent shall specify, as are issuable in
respect of AirTouch Common Shares properly delivered to the Exchange Agent.
Vodafone shall from time to time deposit or cause to be deposited cash in an
amount sufficient to provide the Exchange Agent with the cash to fund the
payments to be paid by Vodafone required by Section 1.4.2.
1.4.2. Each holder of any AirTouch Common Shares that have been
converted into a right to receive the consideration set forth in Section
1.3.2. shall, upon surrender to the Exchange Agent of a Certificate or
Certificates, together with a properly completed letter of transmittal
covering the AirTouch Common Shares represented by such Certificate or
Certificates, without further action, be entitled to receive (i) the number
of whole Vodafone Depositary Shares included in the Merger Consideration in
respect of such AirTouch Common Shares, and (ii) a check in the amount
(after giving effect to any required tax withholdings) of (A) the Cash
Consideration that such holder has the right to receive pursuant to Section
1.3.2., plus (B) any cash in lieu of fractional shares to be paid pursuant
to Section 1.6., plus (C) any cash dividends or other distributions that
such holder has the right to receive pursuant to Section 1.4.6. Until so
surrendered, each such Certificate shall after the Effective Time represent
for all purposes only the right to receive the number of whole Vodafone
Depositary Shares included in the Merger Consideration and the applicable
amounts of cash provided in the foregoing clause (ii).
1.4.3. If any Vodafone Depositary Shares are to be issued to a person
other than the registered holder of the AirTouch Common Shares represented
by a Certificate or Certificates surrendered with respect thereto, it shall
be a condition to such issue that the Certificate or Certificates so
surrendered shall be properly endorsed or otherwise be in proper form for
transfer and that the person requesting such issue shall pay to the Exchange
Agent any transfer or other taxes required as a result of such issue to a
person other than the registered holder of such AirTouch Common Shares or
establish to the satisfaction of the Exchange Agent that such tax has been
paid or is not payable.
1.4.4. After the close of the stock transfer books of AirTouch on the
day prior to the Effective Time, there shall be no further registration of
transfers of AirTouch Common Shares that were outstanding prior to the
Effective Time. After the Effective Time, Certificates presented to the
Surviving Corporation for transfer shall be canceled and exchanged for the
consideration provided for, and in accordance with the procedures set forth,
in this Article I.
1.4.5. Any Vodafone Ordinary Shares issued and delivered in respect of
AirTouch Common Shares pursuant to this Article I, any cash entitled to be
received therefor pursuant to Section 1.3.2., and any cash in lieu of
fractional interests in Vodafone Depositary Shares to be paid pursuant to
Section 1.6., plus any cash dividend or other distribution that such holder
has the right to receive pursuant to Section 1.4.6., that remains unclaimed
by any holder of AirTouch Common Shares six months after the Effective Time
shall be held by the Exchange Agent (or a successor agent appointed by
Vodafone) or shall be delivered to the Depositary upon the instruction of
Vodafone and held by the Depositary, in either case subject to the
instruction of Vodafone in an account or accounts designated for such
purpose. Vodafone shall not be liable to any holder of AirTouch Common
Shares for any securities delivered or any amount paid by the Depositary,
the Exchange Agent or its nominee, as the case may be, to a public official
pursuant to applicable abandoned property laws. Any cash remaining unclaimed
by holders of AirTouch Common Shares three years after the Effective Time
(or such earlier date immediately prior to such time as such cash would
otherwise escheat to or become property of any governmental entity or as is
otherwise provided by applicable Law (as defined in Section 2.1.4.2.))
shall, to the extent permitted by
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applicable Law, become the property of the Surviving Corporation or
Vodafone, as Vodafone may determine.
1.4.6. No dividends or other distributions with respect to securities
of Vodafone issuable with respect to AirTouch Common Shares shall be paid to
the holder of any unsurrendered Certificates until such Certificates are
surrendered as provided in this Section. Subject to the effect of applicable
Law, upon such surrender, there shall be issued and/or paid to the holder of
the Vodafone Depositary Shares issued in exchange therefor, without
interest, (A) at the time of such surrender, the dividends or other
distributions payable with respect to such Vodafone Depositary Shares with a
record date after the Effective Time and a payment date on or prior to the
date of such surrender and not previously paid and (B) at the appropriate
payment date, the dividends or other distributions payable with respect to
such Vodafone Depositary Shares with a record date after the Effective Time
but with a payment date subsequent to such surrender. For purposes of
dividends or other distributions in respect of Vodafone Depositary Shares,
all Vodafone Depositary Shares to be issued pursuant to the Merger shall be
deemed issued and outstanding as of the Effective Time.
1.5. AIRTOUCH STOCK OPTIONS.
1.5.1. At the Effective Time, all stock options to purchase AirTouch
Common Shares (each, an "AIRTOUCH STOCK OPTION") and tandem stock
appreciation rights ("TANDEM SARS"), whether vested or unvested, which are
then outstanding and unexercised shall cease to represent a right to acquire
AirTouch Common Shares and shall be converted automatically into options to
purchase, and tandem stock appreciation rights with respect to, Vodafone
Ordinary Shares, and Vodafone shall assume each such AirTouch Stock Option
and Tandem SAR, subject to the terms of the relevant AirTouch Stock Plan (as
defined in Section 2.1.2.1.) under which it was issued and the agreement
evidencing the grant thereof; provided, however, that from and after the
Effective Time, (i) the number of Vodafone Ordinary Shares purchasable upon
exercise of each such AirTouch Stock Option or subject to a Tandem SAR shall
be equal to the number of AirTouch Common Shares that were purchasable under
such AirTouch Stock Option or subject to such Tandem SAR immediately prior
to the Effective Time multiplied by the Exchange Ratio, subject to
adjustment as provided in Section 1.3.5., and rounding down to the nearest
whole Vodafone Ordinary Share (or, if issued in the form of Vodafone
Depositary Shares, the nearest whole Vodafone Depositary Share), and (ii)
the per Vodafone Ordinary Share exercise price under each such AirTouch
Stock Option or Tandem SAR shall be obtained by dividing (A) the per share
exercise price of each such AirTouch Stock Option or Tandem SAR less the per
share Cash Consideration or AirTouch Cash Payment, as the case may be, by
(B) the Exchange Ratio, subject to adjustment as provided in Section 1.3.5.,
and rounding down to the nearest cent. Vodafone Ordinary Shares to be issued
upon the exercise of AirTouch Stock Options or Tandem SARs shall, at the
election of the holders of such AirTouch Stock Options or Tandem SARs, be
delivered in the form of Vodafone Depositary Shares evidenced by Vodafone
ADRs. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the number of Vodafone Ordinary Shares
and the per Vodafone Ordinary Share exercise price of each AirTouch Stock
Option which is intended to be an "INCENTIVE STOCK OPTION" (as defined in
Section 422 of the U.S. Code) shall be adjusted in accordance with the
requirements of Section 424 of the U.S. Code. At or prior to the Effective
Time, AirTouch shall make all necessary arrangements with respect to the
AirTouch Stock Plans to permit the assumption by Vodafone of any unexercised
AirTouch Stock Options and Tandem SARs.
1.5.2. Prior to the Effective Time, Vodafone shall make available for
issuance in accordance with Section 1.4.1. the number of Vodafone Ordinary
Shares necessary to satisfy Vodafone's obligations under Section 1.5.1. and
1.5.3. As soon as practicable after the Effective Time, Vodafone shall file
with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") a registration
statement on an appropriate form or a post-effective amendment to a
previously filed registration
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statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "SECURITIES
ACT"), with respect to the Vodafone Ordinary Shares and the Vodafone
Depositary Shares issued pursuant to Section 1.5.1. or Section 1.5.3., and
shall use its best reasonable efforts to cause such registration statement
to become and remain effective and maintain the current status of the
prospectus contained therein, as well as comply with any applicable state
securities or "BLUE SKY" laws, for so long as such options or other awards
remain outstanding.
1.5.3. At the Effective Time, each other right with respect to the
AirTouch Common Shares (an "AIRTOUCH AWARD"), whether vested or unvested,
shall be deemed to constitute a right to receive or acquire, on the same
terms and conditions as were applicable under the AirTouch Award, the same
number of Vodafone Ordinary Shares as the holder of such AirTouch Award
would have been entitled to receive pursuant to the Merger had such holder
received such AirTouch Award in full immediately prior to the Effective Time
(rounded to the nearest whole number), in each case, as appropriately
adjusted to reflect the payment of the Cash Consideration or the AirTouch
Cash Payment, as the case may be. Effective at the Effective Time, Vodafone
shall assume each AirTouch Award in accordance with the terms of the
relevant AirTouch Stock Plan under which it was issued and the award
agreement by which it was evidenced. At or prior to the Effective Time,
Vodafone shall take all corporate action necessary to reserve for issuance a
sufficient number of Vodafone Ordinary Shares with respect to the AirTouch
Awards assumed by it in accordance with this Section 1.5.3.
1.6. FRACTIONAL VODAFONE DEPOSITARY SHARES. No fraction of a Vodafone
Depositary Share will be issued, but in lieu thereof each holder of AirTouch
Common Shares otherwise entitled to receive a fraction of a Vodafone Depositary
Share will be entitled to receive in accordance with the provisions of this
Section 1.6. from the Exchange Agent a cash payment in lieu of such fraction of
a Vodafone Depositary Share representing such holder's proportionate interest in
the net proceeds from the sale by the Exchange Agent on behalf of all such
holders of the aggregate of the fractions of Vodafone Depositary Shares which
would otherwise be issued ("EXCESS SHARES"). The sale of the Excess Shares by
the Exchange Agent shall be executed on the New York Stock Exchange, Inc. (the
"NYSE") through one or more member firms of the NYSE and shall be executed in
round lots to the extent practicable. Until the net proceeds of such sale or
sales have been distributed to the holders of AirTouch Common Shares, the
Exchange Agent will hold such proceeds in trust for the holders of AirTouch
Common Shares (the "COMMON SHARES TRUST"). Vodafone shall pay all commissions,
transfer taxes and other out-of-pocket transaction costs, including the expenses
and compensation, of the Exchange Agent incurred in connection with such sale of
the Excess Shares. The Exchange Agent shall determine the portion of the Common
Shares Trust to which each holder of AirTouch Common Shares shall be entitled,
if any, by multiplying the amount of the aggregate net proceeds comprising the
Common Shares Trust by a fraction the numerator of which is the amount of the
fractional Vodafone Depositary Share interest to which such holder of AirTouch
Common Shares is entitled and the denominator of which is the aggregate amount
of fractional share interests to which all holders of AirTouch Common Shares are
entitled. As soon as practicable after the determination of the amount of cash,
if any, to be paid to holders of AirTouch Common Shares in lieu of any
fractional Vodafone Depositary Share interests, the Exchange Agent shall make
available such amounts to such holders of AirTouch Common Shares without
interest.
1.7. THE SURVIVING CORPORATION.
1.7.1. The certificate of incorporation of AirTouch in effect at the
Effective Time shall be the certificate of incorporation of the Surviving
Corporation until amended in accordance with applicable law.
1.7.2. The bylaws of AirTouch in effect at the Effective Time shall be
the bylaws of the Surviving Corporation until amended in accordance with
applicable law.
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1.7.3. From and after the Effective Time, until successors are duly
elected or appointed and qualified in accordance with applicable law, (i)
the directors of the Surviving Corporation shall comprise six directors,
three selected by the current Chief Executive Officer of Vodafone and three
selected by the current Chief Executive Officer of AirTouch, and (ii) such
officers as are mutually agreed by Vodafone and AirTouch prior to the
Effective Time shall be the officers of the Surviving Corporation.
1.8. LOST, STOLEN OR DESTROYED CERTIFICATES. In the event any Certificate
shall have been lost, stolen or destroyed, upon the holder's compliance with the
replacement requirements established by the Exchange Agent, including, if
necessary, the posting by such Person (as defined in Section 2.1.1.) of a bond
in customary amount as indemnity against any claim that may be made against it
with respect to such Certificate, the Exchange Agent will issue in exchange for
such lost, stolen or destroyed Certificate, the Merger Consideration and any
cash payable in lieu of fractional Vodafone Depositary Shares and any unpaid
dividends or other distributions deliverable pursuant to Section 1.4.6. in
respect of the AirTouch Common Shares represented by such Certificate pursuant
to this Agreement.
1.9. RESERVATION OF RIGHT TO REVISE TRANSACTION. Without prejudice to
Section 1.3.2., in the event of any change in law in relation to stamp duty or
stamp duty reserve tax which materially increases the costs of the issuance or
creation of the Vodafone Ordinary Shares or the Vodafone Depositary Shares
issued or created as part of the Stock Consideration or in respect of the
conversion of any AirTouch Stock Options pursuant to Section 1.5., Vodafone
shall, subject as provided below, be entitled to change its domicile to a
jurisdiction other than the U.K. Such change may be effected in such manner as
Vodafone considers appropriate, including by the imposition of a new holding
company which acquires all of the outstanding and issued shares in Vodafone in
exchange for its own shares and is then substituted for Vodafone for the
purposes of this Agreement. For this purpose Vodafone may seek such approvals
from, and propose such resolutions to, its shareholders (and if applicable the
courts) as may be necessary to effect such change; provided always that, save
with the consent of AirTouch, no such change of domicile may be undertaken if
the effect would be likely to increase any liability for taxation on AirTouch or
its stockholders or holders of AirTouch Stock Options, Tandem SARs or AirTouch
Awards from that which would apply if no such change of domicile were to occur.
1.10. DISSENTING SHARES. (a) AirTouch Common Shares (unless no Cash
Consideration is paid hereunder) and shares of Class D Preferred Shares and
Class E Preferred Shares which are issued and outstanding immediately prior to
the Effective Time and which are held by a holder who has not voted such shares
in favor of the Merger, who shall have delivered a written demand for appraisal
of such shares in the manner provided by the DGCL and who, as of the Effective
Time, shall not have effectively withdrawn or lost such right to appraisal
("DISSENTING SHARES") shall be entitled to such rights (but only such rights) as
are granted by Section 262 of the DGCL. Each holder of Dissenting Shares who
becomes entitled to payment for such Dissenting Shares pursuant to Section 262
of the DGCL shall receive payment therefor from the Surviving Corporation in
accordance with the DGCL; provided, however, that (i) if any such holder of
Dissenting Shares shall have failed to establish his entitlement to appraisal
rights as provided in Section 262 of the DGCL, (ii) if any holder of Dissenting
Shares shall have effectively withdrawn his demand for appraisal of such Shares
or lost his right to appraisal and payment for his Shares under Section 262 of
DGCL or (iii) if neither any holder of Dissenting Shares nor the Surviving
Corporation shall have filed a petition demanding a determination of the value
of all Dissenting Shares within the time provided in Section 262 of the DGCL,
such holder shall forfeit the right to appraisal of such Dissenting Shares and
each such Dissenting Share shall, in the case of AirTouch Common Shares, be
converted and exchanged pursuant to Section 1.3.2., or in the case of Class D or
Class E Preferred Shares, remain outstanding in accordance with Sections
1.3.6.3.2.4. and 1.3.6.3.2.5., respectively. AirTouch shall give Vodafone prompt
notice of any demands received by AirTouch for appraisal of AirTouch Common
Shares, shares of Class D Preferred Shares and Class E
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Preferred Shares and Vodafone shall have the right to conduct all negotiations
and proceedings with respect to such demands.
(b) Any and all amounts paid by AirTouch to holders of Dissenting Shares
shall be paid by AirTouch solely out of its own cash on hand or out of its own
borrowings. In no event shall Vodafone or its Affiliates (as defined in Section
2.1.1.) provide directly or indirectly any funds to AirTouch in respect of
payments of holders of Dissenting Shares or the repayment of any such
borrowings.
ARTICLE II
REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
2.1. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF AIRTOUCH AND VODAFONE. Except as
set forth in the corresponding sections or subsections of the disclosure letter,
dated the date hereof and signed by an authorized officer, delivered by AirTouch
to Vodafone or by Vodafone to AirTouch (each a "DISCLOSURE LETTER," and the
"AIRTOUCH DISCLOSURE LETTER" and the "VODAFONE DISCLOSURE LETTER,"
respectively), as the case may be, or as disclosed in the AirTouch Reports (as
defined in Section 2.1.5.1.) or the Vodafone Reports (as defined in Section
2.1.5.2.) publicly available prior to the date hereof, AirTouch (except for
subparagraphs 2.1.2.2, 2.1.3.2, 2.1.5.2, 2.1.9(ii), 2.1.10.2, 2.1.11 and
2.1.14.2 below and references in paragraph 2.1.1 below to documents made
available by Vodafone to AirTouch) hereby represents and warrants to Vodafone,
and Vodafone (except for subparagraphs 2.1.2.1, 2.1.3.1, 2.1.5.1, 2.1.8,
2.1.9(i), 2.1.10.1, 2.1.14.1 and 2.1.16 below and references in paragraph 2.1.1
below to documents made available by AirTouch to Vodafone), hereby represents
and warrants to AirTouch, that:
2.1.1. ORGANIZATION, GOOD STANDING AND QUALIFICATION. Each of it and
its Subsidiaries (as defined below) is duly organized, validly existing and
in good standing (with respect to jurisdictions that recognize the concept
of good standing) under the laws of its respective jurisdiction of
organization and has all requisite corporate or similar power and authority,
and has been duly authorized by all necessary approvals and orders, to own,
operate and lease its properties and assets and to carry on its business as
presently conducted and is duly qualified to do business and is in good
standing in each jurisdiction where the ownership, operation or leasing of
its assets or properties or conduct of its business requires such
qualification, except where the failure to be so organized, qualified or in
good standing, or to have such power or authority would not, individually or
in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect
(as defined below) on it. AirTouch has made available to Vodafone complete
and correct copies of its certificate of incorporation and by-laws, and
Vodafone has made available to AirTouch complete and correct copies of its
memorandum and articles of association, in all cases as amended to date.
Such certificate of incorporation and by-laws or memorandum and articles of
association, as the case may be, as so made available are in full force and
effect.
As used in this Agreement, the term (i) "SUBSIDIARY" means, with respect
to AirTouch, any entity, whether incorporated or unincorporated, in which
AirTouch owns, directly or indirectly, more than fifty percent of the
securities or other ownership interests having by their terms ordinary
voting power to elect more than fifty percent of the directors or other
persons performing similar functions, or the management and policies of
which AirTouch otherwise has the power to control, and, with respect to
Vodafone, any body corporate which is a subsidiary or subsidiary
undertaking, in each case within the meaning of the Companies Act of 1985 of
the United Kingdom, as amended (the "COMPANIES ACT"), (ii) "MATERIAL ADVERSE
EFFECT" means, with respect to any Person, a material adverse effect on the
financial condition, properties, business, or results of operations of such
Person and its Subsidiaries taken as a whole, PROVIDED, THAT, all references
to Material Adverse Effect on Vodafone or its Subsidiaries or to AirTouch
and its Subsidiaries in this Article II or in Article III shall be deemed to
refer solely to Vodafone and its Subsidiaries and AirTouch and its
Subsidiaries, respectively, without giving effect to Vodafone's ownership of
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AirTouch and its Subsidiaries after the Effective Time, (iii) "PERSON" means
any individual, corporation (including not-for-profit), general or limited
partnership, limited liability or unlimited liability company, joint
venture, estate, trust, association, organization, Governmental Entity (as
defined in paragraph 2.1.4.1 (Governmental Filings; No Violations)) or other
entity of any kind or nature, and (iv) "AFFILIATE" has the meaning specified
in Rule 12b-2 of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the
"EXCHANGE ACT").
2.1.2. CAPITAL STRUCTURE.
2.1.2.1. The authorized capital stock of AirTouch consists of
1,100,000,000 AirTouch Common Shares, of which 572,391,167 AirTouch
Common Shares were issued and outstanding as of the close of business on
December 31, 1998 and 4,373,383 shares were held in the treasury of
AirTouch, and 60,000,000 shares of preferred stock, par value $.01 per
share ( "AIRTOUCH PREFERRED SHARES"). Of such authorized AirTouch
Preferred Shares, (i) 7,000,000 shares have been designated as the Series
A Participating Preferred Stock, of which no shares are outstanding as of
the date hereof but of which all have been reserved for issuance pursuant
to the Rights Agreement, dated as of September 19, 1994 and as amended to
the date hereof, between AirTouch and The Bank of New York, as rights
agent (the "RIGHTS AGREEMENT"); (ii) 19,000,000 shares have been
designated as Class B Preferred Shares, of which 17,197,235 shares were
outstanding as of December 31, 1998, (iii) 13,000,000 shares have been
designated as Class C Preferred Shares, of which 11,044,765 shares are
outstanding as of December 31, 1998, (iv) 825,000 shares have been
designated as Class D Preferred Shares, all of which shares are
outstanding as of the date hereof and (v) 825,000 shares have been
designated as Class E Preferred Shares, all of which shares are
outstanding as of the date hereof. In addition, since December 31, 1998
through the date hereof, AirTouch has issued no AirTouch Common Shares
other than pursuant to previously outstanding options or convertible
securities. All of the outstanding AirTouch Common Shares and AirTouch
Preferred Shares have been duly authorized and validly issued and are
fully paid and nonassessable. Other than as set forth above, AirTouch has
no AirTouch Common Shares or AirTouch Preferred Shares reserved for or
otherwise subject to issuance, except that (i) as of the close of
business on December 31, 1998, there were 37,800,157 AirTouch Common
Shares subject to issuance pursuant to AirTouch Stock Options outstanding
under the plans of AirTouch identified in subparagraph 2.1.2.1 of the
AirTouch Disclosure Letter as being the only compensation or benefit
plans or agreements pursuant to which AirTouch Common Shares may be
issued (the "AIRTOUCH STOCK PLANS") and (ii) since December 31, 1998,
through the date hereof, AirTouch has granted AirTouch Stock Options with
respect to 1,897 AirTouch Common Shares. As of the date hereof, there are
no more than 639,284,923 AirTouch Common Shares outstanding on a fully
diluted basis. Each of the outstanding shares of capital stock or other
ownership interests of each of AirTouch's Subsidiaries that constitutes a
"SIGNIFICANT SUBSIDIARY" (as defined in Rule 1-02(w) of Regulation S-X
promulgated under the Exchange Act) is duly authorized, validly issued,
fully paid and nonassessable and owned by AirTouch or a direct or
indirect wholly owned subsidiary of AirTouch, in each case free and clear
of any lien, pledge, mortgage, security interest, claim, charge or other
encumbrance ("ENCUMBRANCE"). Except as set forth above or as contemplated
by this Agreement, there are no preemptive or other outstanding rights,
options, warrants, conversion rights, stock appreciation rights,
redemption rights, repurchase rights, agreements, arrangements, calls,
commitments or rights of any kind which obligate AirTouch or any of its
Subsidiaries to issue or sell any shares of capital stock or other
securities of AirTouch or any of its Subsidiaries or any securities or
obligations convertible or exchangeable into or exercisable for, or
giving any Person a right to subscribe for or acquire from AirTouch or
any of its Subsidiaries, any securities of AirTouch or any of its
Subsidiaries, and no securities or obligations evidencing such rights are
authorized, issued or outstanding. Except as set forth above or as
contemplated
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by this Agreement, AirTouch does not have outstanding any bonds,
debentures, notes or other obligations the holders of which have the
right to vote (or which are convertible into or exercisable for
securities having the right to vote) with the shareholders of AirTouch on
any matter.
2.1.2.2. The authorized share capital of Vodafone is L200,000,000
divided into 4,000,000,000 ordinary shares of nominal value 5p each. As
of the close of business on January 13, 1999, the allotted share capital
of Vodafone consisted of 3,094,601,095 Vodafone Ordinary Shares. All of
the outstanding Vodafone Ordinary Shares have been, and the Vodafone
Ordinary Shares to be issued as Merger Consideration shall be, duly
authorized and validly issued and are or will be, as the case may be,
fully paid or credited as fully paid. Vodafone has no Vodafone Ordinary
Shares reserved for or otherwise subject to issuance. Of the Vodafone
Ordinary Shares described in the first sentence of this paragraph, as of
the close of business on January 13, 1999, there were 2,230,470 Vodafone
Ordinary Shares held by trusts operated by Vodafone Group Share Trustee
Limited for the Qualifying Share Ownership Trust and Orbis Pension
Trustees Limited for the Long Term Incentive Plan in relation to certain
of the share option schemes identified in subparagraph 2.1.2.2 of the
Vodafone Disclosure Letter as being the only compensation or benefit
plans or agreements pursuant to which Vodafone Ordinary Shares may be
issued (the "OPTION SCHEMES"). Each of the outstanding shares of capital
stock or other ownership interests of each of Vodafone's Significant
Subsidiaries is duly authorized, validly issued, fully paid and
nonassessable and owned by Vodafone or a direct or indirect wholly owned
Subsidiary of Vodafone, in each case free and clear of any Encumbrance.
Except as set forth above or as contemplated by this Agreement, there are
no preemptive or other outstanding rights, options, warrants, conversion
rights, stock appreciation rights, redemption rights, repurchase rights,
agreements, arrangements, calls, commitments or rights of any kind which
obligate Vodafone or any of its Subsidiaries to issue or to sell any
shares of capital stock or other securities of Vodafone or any of its
Subsidiaries or any securities or obligations convertible or exchangeable
into or exercisable for, or giving any Person a right to subscribe for or
acquire from Vodafone or any of its Subsidiaries, any securities of
Vodafone or any of its Subsidiaries, and no securities or obligations
evidencing such rights are authorized, issued or outstanding. Vodafone
does not have outstanding any bonds, debentures, notes or other
obligations the holders of which have the right to vote (or which are
convertible into or exercisable for securities having the right to vote)
with the shareholders of Vodafone on any matter.
2.1.3. CORPORATE AUTHORITY; APPROVAL AND FAIRNESS.
2.1.3.1. AirTouch has all requisite corporate power and
authority and has taken all corporate action necessary in order to
execute, deliver and perform its obligations under this Agreement and
to consummate the Merger and the other transactions contemplated
hereby (including, without limitation, the Initial Merger), subject
only to the adoption of this Agreement and the Initial Merger by the
vote of the holders of a majority of the outstanding stock entitled
to vote at the AirTouch Shareholders Meeting (as defined in Section
3.4. (Shareholders Meetings)) (the "AIRTOUCH REQUISITE VOTE"). The
execution and delivery of this Agreement has been duly authorized by
all necessary corporate action on the part of AirTouch and, assuming
the due authorization, execution and delivery of this Agreement by
Vodafone and Merger Sub, this Agreement constitutes a valid and
binding agreement of AirTouch enforceable against AirTouch in
accordance with its terms, subject to bankruptcy, insolvency,
fraudulent transfer, reorganization, moratorium and similar laws of
general applicability relating to or affecting creditors' rights and
to general equity principles (the "BANKRUPTCY AND EQUITY EXCEPTION").
The Board of Directors of AirTouch has (A) unanimously approved this
Agreement, the Merger and the other transactions
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contemplated hereby and declared their advisability and (B) has
received the opinion of its financial advisor, Morgan Stanley & Co.
Incorporated, to the effect that, as of the date of this Agreement,
the Merger Consideration, together with the AirTouch Cash Payment, if
any, is fair to the holders of AirTouch Common Shares from a
financial point of view.
2.1.3.2. Vodafone has all requisite corporate power and
authority and has taken all corporate action necessary in order to
execute, deliver and perform its obligations under this Agreement and
to consummate the Merger and the other transactions contemplated
hereby, subject only to the approval of (i) the resolution set forth
in clause (i) of the third sentence of Section 3.4. (the "VODAFONE
REQUISITE RESOLUTION") by, on a show of hands, not less than a
majority of the holders of the outstanding Vodafone Ordinary Shares
present in person or, on a poll, by the holders of not less than a
majority of the votes attaching to the Vodafone Ordinary Shares who
vote in person or by proxy at the Vodafone Shareholders Meeting (as
defined in Section 3.4. (Shareholders Meetings)) (the "VODAFONE
REQUISITE VOTE") and (ii) the resolutions set forth in clauses (ii),
(iii), (iv), (v) and (vi) of the third sentence of Section 3.4. (the
"VODAFONE SUPPLEMENTAL RESOLUTIONS") by not less than three-fourths
(or, in the case of such clauses (iii) and (v), a majority) of the
persons voting on a show of hands or, on a poll, of the votes
attaching to the Vodafone Ordinary Shares who vote in person or by
proxy, at the Vodafone Shareholders Meeting (the "VODAFONE
SUPPLEMENTAL VOTE"). The execution and delivery of this Agreement has
been duly authorized by all necessary corporate action on the part of
Vodafone, and, assuming the due authorization, execution and delivery
of this Agreement by AirTouch, this Agreement constitutes a valid and
binding agreement of Vodafone, enforceable against Vodafone in
accordance with its terms, subject to the Bankruptcy and Equity
Exception. The Board of Directors of Vodafone has (A) unanimously
approved this Agreement, the Merger and the other transactions
contemplated hereby and (B) received the opinion of its financial
advisor, Goldman Sachs International, to the effect that, as of the
date of this Agreement, the Merger Consideration, together with the
AirTouch Cash Payment, if any, is fair, from a financial point of
view, to Vodafone.
2.1.4. GOVERNMENTAL FILINGS; NO VIOLATIONS.
2.1.4.1. Other than the necessary filings, permits,
authorizations, notices, approvals, confirmations, consents,
declarations and/or decisions (A) pursuant to Sections 1.2.2. and
3.3.1., (B) under the Hart-Scott-Rodino Antitrust Improvements Act of
1976, as amended (the "HSR ACT"), the Exchange Act, the Securities
Act and the Exon-Florio provisions of the Omnibus Trade and
Competitiveness Act of 1988 ("EXON-FLORIO"), (C) to comply with the
rules and regulations of the NYSE or the London Stock Exchange
Limited (the "LSE") or any other stock exchanges on which securities
of Vodafone, AirTouch or any of its respective Subsidiaries are
listed, (D) with or from the European Commission, in accordance with
Article 6(1)(b), 8(2) or 10(6) of Council Regulation (EEC) No 4064/89
as amended (the "REGULATION"), (E) with or from any national
authority within the European Community to whom the Merger (or any
part of it) is referred pursuant to Article 9 (3) of the Regulation,
(F) from H.M. Treasury pursuant to section 765 of the Income and
Corporation Taxes Act 1988 (or the confirmation from H.M. Treasury or
the Inland Revenue that no such consent is required to the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement) and (G) as may be
required by laws, orders, regulations, practices and rules of the
United States Federal Communications Commission (the "FCC") and state
public utilities or public service commissions ("PUC"), the U.K.
Office of Telecommunications ("OFTEL") and foreign communications
regulatory agencies, state or foreign antitrust authorities, foreign
investment regulatory bodies or similar state, local or foreign
regulatory bodies (such filings, permits, authorizations, notices,
approvals,
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confirmations, consents, declarations and/or decisions to be made,
given or obtained by AirTouch being the "AIRTOUCH REQUIRED CONSENTS"
and by Vodafone being the "VODAFONE REQUIRED CONSENTS"), no filings,
notices, declarations and/or decisions are required to be made by it
with, nor are any permits, authorizations, approvals or other
confirmations or consents required to be obtained by it from, any
governmental or regulatory (including stock exchange) authority,
agency, court, commission, body or other governmental entity
(including the U.K. Panel on Takeovers and Mergers (the "TAKEOVER
PANEL")) ("GOVERNMENTAL ENTITY"), in connection with the execution
and delivery by it of this Agreement and the consummation by it of
the Merger and the other transactions contemplated hereby, except
those the failure of which to make, give or obtain would not,
individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a
Material Adverse Effect on it or prevent, materially delay or
materially impair its ability to consummate the Merger and the other
transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
2.1.4.2. The execution, delivery and performance of this
Agreement by it do not, and the consummation by it of the Merger and
the other transactions contemplated hereby (including, in the case of
Vodafone, the issue of Vodafone Ordinary Shares, including the Bearer
Shares, if any, the delivery by Vodafone of Vodafone Ordinary Shares
to the Nominee and the deposit of Vodafone Ordinary Shares by the
Nominee with the Depositary against issuance of Vodafone Depositary
Shares in accordance with the Deposit Agreement) will not, constitute
or result in (A) a breach or violation of, or a default under, its
certificate of incorporation or by-laws, in the case of AirTouch, or
memorandum or articles of association, in the case of Vodafone, or
the comparable governing instruments of any of the Significant
Subsidiaries of AirTouch and Vodafone (in each case as amended from
time to time), (B) subject to making, giving or obtaining all
necessary filings, permits, authorizations, notices, approvals,
confirmations, consents, declarations and/or decisions described in
subparagraph 2.1.4.1 and all other necessary third-party consents as
set forth in subparagraph 2.1.4.2 of its Disclosure Letter, a breach
or violation of, a default under, or the acceleration of any
obligations or rights of third Parties or the creation of an
Encumbrance on the assets of it or any of its Subsidiaries or of any
partnership, joint venture or similar entity in which it owns an
interest and which holds Communications Licenses (as defined in
Section 2.1.13.) or holds assets used to provide communications
services, including, without limitation, wireless communication
services (with or without notice, lapse of time or both) pursuant to,
any agreement, lease, license, contract, note, mortgage, indenture,
arrangement or other obligation ("CONTRACTS") binding upon it or any
of its Subsidiaries or any law, ordinance, regulation, judgment,
order, decree, arbitration, award, license or permit of any
Governmental Entity ("LAW") or governmental or non-governmental
permit or license to which it or any of its Subsidiaries is subject,
or (C) any other change in the rights or obligations of either Party
under any of its Contracts, except, in the case of clause (B) or (C)
above, for any breach, violation, default, acceleration, creation or
change that would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably
be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on it or prevent,
materially delay or materially impair its ability to consummate the
Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
2.1.5. REPORTS; FINANCIAL STATEMENTS.
2.1.5.1. AirTouch has made available to Vodafone copies of each
registration statement, report, proxy statement or information
statement prepared by it or its Subsidiaries and filed with the SEC
since December 31, 1997 (December 31, 1997 being the "AIRTOUCH AUDIT
DATE"), including AirTouch's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year
ended December 31, 1998, each in the form (including exhibits,
annexes and any
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amendments thereto) filed with the SEC (collectively, including any
such registration statement, report, proxy statement or information
statement filed with the SEC subsequent to the date hereof, the
"AIRTOUCH REPORTS"). As of their respective dates, the AirTouch
Reports (i) complied in all material respects with, and any AirTouch
Reports filed subsequent to the date hereof will comply in all
material respects with, any applicable requirements of the Securities
Act and the Exchange Act and the rules and regulations of the SEC
promulgated thereunder and (ii) did not, and any AirTouch Reports
filed with the SEC subsequent to the date hereof will not, contain
any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state a material
fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the
statements made therein, in the light of the circumstances under
which they were made, not misleading. Each of the consolidated
balance sheets of AirTouch and its Subsidiaries included in or
incorporated by reference into the AirTouch Reports (including the
related notes and schedules) fairly presents, or will fairly present,
in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of
AirTouch and its Subsidiaries as of its date, and each of the related
consolidated statements of income, stockholders' equity and cash
flows included in or incorporated by reference into the AirTouch
Reports (including any related notes and schedules) fairly presents,
or will fairly present, in all material respects, the consolidated
results of operations, retained earnings and cash flows, as the case
may be, of AirTouch and its Subsidiaries for the periods set forth
therein (subject, in the case of unaudited statements, to notes and
normal year-end audit adjustments that will not be material in amount
or effect), in each case in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles in the United States ("U.S. GAAP") consistently
applied during the periods involved except as may be noted therein.
2.1.5.2. Vodafone has made available to AirTouch copies of (A)
each registration statement, report or annual report prepared by it
or its Subsidiaries and filed with the SEC since March 31, 1998 (the
"VODAFONE AUDIT DATE," with the Vodafone Audit Date and the AirTouch
Audit Date each being referred to herein as the relevant Party's
"AUDIT DATE"), including Vodafone's Annual Report on Form 20-F for
the year ended March 31, 1998, each in the form (including exhibits,
annexes and any amendments thereto) filed with the SEC and each
biannual report distributed by Vodafone to its shareholders
(collectively, including any such registration statement, report or
annual report filed with the SEC or, in the case of biannual reports,
distributed to Vodafone shareholders subsequent to the date hereof,
the "VODAFONE REPORTS"); and (B) all circulars, reports and other
documents distributed by Vodafone to its shareholders since its Audit
Date. None of Vodafone's Subsidiaries is required to file any form,
report or other document with the SEC. As of their respective dates,
the Vodafone Reports (i) complied in all material respects with, and
any Vodafone Reports filed, distributed or delivered subsequent to
the date hereof will comply in all material respects with, any
applicable requirements of the Securities Act and the Exchange Act
and the rules and regulations of the SEC promulgated thereunder and
(ii) did not, and any Vodafone Report filed, distributed or delivered
subsequent to the date hereof will not (and all circulars, reports
and other documents referred to in clause (B) of the preceding
sentence did not, and such materials circulated subsequent to the
date hereof will not), contain any untrue statement of a material
fact or omit to state a material fact required to be stated therein
or necessary to make the statements made therein, in the light of the
circumstances under which they were made, not misleading. Each of the
consolidated balance sheets of Vodafone and its Subsidiaries included
in or incorporated by reference into the Vodafone Reports (including
the related notes and schedules) fairly presents, or will fairly
present, in all material respects, the consolidated financial
position of Vodafone and its Subsidiaries as of its date, and each of
the related consolidated profit and loss accounts, statements of
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cash flows and statements of total recognized gains and losses and
movements in equity shareholders' funds included in or incorporated
by reference into the Vodafone Reports (including any related notes
and schedules) fairly presents, or will fairly present, in all
material respects, the consolidated profits and losses, cash flows
and shareholders' equity of Vodafone and its Subsidiaries for the
periods set forth therein (subject, in the case of unaudited
statements, to notes and normal year-end audit adjustments that will
not be material in amount or effect), in each case in accordance with
accounting methods under generally accepted accounting principles in
the United Kingdom ("U.K. GAAP") consistently applied during the
periods involved except as may be noted therein. The related notes
reconciling to U.S. GAAP such consolidated balance sheet,
consolidated profits and loss accounts, statements of cash flows and
statements of total recognized gains and losses and movements in
equity shareholders' funds comply and will comply in all material
respects with the requirements of the SEC applicable to such
reconciliation. The AirTouch Reports and the Vodafone Reports are
collectively referred to herein as the "REPORTS."
2.1.6. ABSENCE OF CERTAIN CHANGES. Except as disclosed in the
Reports filed prior to the date hereof, or as expressly contemplated by
this Agreement, since its respective Audit Date it and its Subsidiaries
have conducted their respective businesses only in, and have not engaged
in any material transaction other than according to, the ordinary and
usual course of such businesses, and there has not been (i) any change in
the financial condition, properties, business or results of operations of
it and its Subsidiaries except those changes that, individually or in the
aggregate, have not had and would not reasonably be expected to have a
Material Adverse Effect on it; (ii) any declaration, setting aside or
payment of any dividend or other distribution in cash, stock or property
in respect of its capital stock, except for dividends or other
distributions on its capital stock publicly announced prior to the date
hereof and except as expressly permitted hereby; (iii) any split in its
capital stock, combination, recapitalization, redenomination of share
capital (other than the Redenomination) or other similar transaction or
issuance or authorization of any issuance of any other securities in
respect of, in lieu of or in substitution for shares of its capital
stock, except as expressly contemplated hereby; or (iv) any change by it
in accounting principles, practices or methods except as required by
changes in U.S. GAAP or U.K. GAAP, as the case may be. Since its
respective Audit Date, except as provided for herein or as disclosed in
the Reports filed prior to the date hereof, there has not been any
material increase in the compensation payable or that could become
payable by it or any of its Subsidiaries to officers or key employees or
any amendment of any of its compensation or benefit plans or agreements
other than increases or amendments in the ordinary course or as
contemplated by this Agreement.
2.1.7. LITIGATION AND LIABILITIES. Except as disclosed in the
Reports filed prior to the date hereof, there are no (i) civil, criminal
or administrative actions, suits, claims, hearings, investigations,
complaints or proceedings pending or, to the knowledge of, in the case of
AirTouch, its executive officers (as defined in the Exchange Act)
("AIRTOUCH OFFICERS"), and, in the case of Vodafone, its executive
directors ("VODAFONE EXECUTIVE DIRECTORS"), threatened against it or any
of its Subsidiaries (ii) obligations or liabilities, whether or not
accrued, contingent or otherwise and whether or not required to be
disclosed, or any other facts or circumstances of which, in the case of
AirTouch, the AirTouch Officers, and, in the case of Vodafone, the
Vodafone Executive Directors, have knowledge that would reasonably be
expected to result in any claims against, or obligations or liabilities
of, it or any of its Subsidiaries, except, in each case, for those that,
individually or in the aggregate, have not had and would not reasonably
be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on it or prevent,
materially delay or materially impair its ability to consummate the
Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
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2.1.8. TAKEOVER STATUTES. The board of directors of AirTouch has
taken or will take all appropriate and necessary action such that
Vodafone will not be prohibited from entering into a "business
combination" with AirTouch as an "interested stockholder" (in each case
as such term is used in Section 203 of the DGCL) as a result of the
execution and delivery of this Agreement or the consummation of the
transactions contemplated hereby and thereby. No other "fair price,"
"moratorium," "control share acquisition" or other similar anti-takeover
statute or regulation, including such business combination provisions of
the DGCL (each, a "TAKEOVER STATUTE"), and no anti-takeover provision in
the certificate of incorporation or by-laws of AirTouch is, or at the
Effective Time will be, applicable to the Merger or any of the other
transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
2.1.9. BROKERS AND FINDERS. Neither it nor any of its Subsidiaries,
officers, directors or employees has employed any broker or finder or
incurred any liability for any brokerage fees, commissions or finders'
fees in connection with the execution and delivery of this Agreement, the
Merger or the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement, except
that (i) AirTouch has retained Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated as its
financial advisor, the arrangements with which have been disclosed to
Vodafone prior to the date hereof, and (ii) Vodafone has employed Goldman
Sachs International as its financial advisor, the arrangements with which
have been disclosed to AirTouch prior to the date hereof.
2.1.10. OWNERSHIP OF OTHER PARTY'S COMMON STOCK.
2.1.10.1. Neither AirTouch nor any of its Subsidiaries
"beneficially owns" (as such term is defined in Rule 13d-3 under the
Exchange Act) any Vodafone Ordinary Shares or Vodafone Depositary
Shares.
2.1.10.2. Neither Vodafone nor any of its Subsidiaries
"beneficially owns" (as such term is defined in Rule 13d-3 under the
Exchange Act) any AirTouch Common Shares.
2.1.11. MERGER SUB'S OPERATIONS. Merger Sub was formed solely
for the purpose of engaging in the transactions contemplated hereby
and has not (i) engaged in any business activities, (ii) conducted
any operations other than in connection with the transactions
contemplated hereby or (iii) incurred any liabilities other than in
connection with the transactions contemplated hereby. The execution
and delivery of this Agreement has been duly authorized by all
necessary corporate action on the part of Merger Sub and, assuming
the due authorization, execution and delivery of this Agreement by
AirTouch, this Agreement constitutes a valid and binding agreement of
Merger Sub enforceable against Merger Sub in accordance with its
terms, subject to the Bankruptcy and Equity Exception. Vodafone, as
Merger Sub's sole stockholder, has approved Merger Sub's execution of
this Agreement.
2.1.12. ASSETS. Each of it and its Subsidiaries has, and
immediately after the Effective Time will have, good and valid title
to its properties and assets, and valid and subsisting leasehold
interests in all properties or assets of which it is lessee or
licensee, in each case free and clear of any Encumbrances, except for
such defects and Encumbrances which, individually or in the
aggregate, have not had and would not reasonably be expected to have
a Material Adverse Effect on it.
2.1.13. LICENSES. Each of it, its Subsidiaries and, to the
knowledge of the AirTouch Officers, in the case of AirTouch, or the
Vodafone Executive Directors, in the case of Vodafone, its Affiliates
has all material permits, licenses, certificates, waivers or
authorizations ("LICENSES") from all Governmental Entities having
jurisdiction over any part of its business necessary for the conduct
of any of its activities, including, without limitation, licenses and
authorizations from the FCC and certificates of public
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convenience and necessity from PUCs and OFTEL ("COMMUNICATIONS
LICENSES") and all such material Licenses are valid and in full force
and effect, except for any such Licenses the failure of which to have
or to be in full force and effect would not, individually or in the
aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
Neither it nor any of its Subsidiaries has made any untrue statement
of material fact, nor has it omitted to disclose any material fact,
to any Governmental Entity nor has it or any of its Subsidiaries
taken or failed to take any action which misstatements, omissions,
actions or failures to act, individually or in the aggregate, would
subject or could reasonably be expected to subject any of the
material Licenses held by it or any of its Subsidiaries to revocation
or failure to renew or to the imposition of material conditions on
any of such Licenses or the renewal thereof; and to the knowledge of
the AirTouch Officers, in the case of AirTouch, or the Vodafone
Executive Directors, in the case of Vodafone no event has occurred or
other fact exists with respect to any of the material Licenses held
by it or any of its Subsidiaries which permits, or after notice or
lapse of time or both would permit, revocation or termination thereof
or would result in any other material impairment of the rights of the
holder of any of the material Licenses. There is no pending, or to
the knowledge of, in the case of AirTouch, the AirTouch Officers, or,
in the case of Vodafone, the Vodafone Executive Directors,
threatened, application, complaint, petition, objection or other
pleading with the FCC, OFTEL or other Governmental Entity which
challenges or questions the validity of, or any rights of the holders
under, any License held by AirTouch or any of its Subsidiaries or
Vodafone or any of its Subsidiaries, as applicable, except for such
applications, complaints, petitions, objections or other pleadings,
that, individually or in the aggregate, have not had and would not
reasonably be expected to have (taking into account both the
likelihood of success and the likely relief) a Material Adverse
Effect. It has no reason to believe that any such material License
held by it or any of its Subsidiaries is not likely to be renewed in
the ordinary course and without new material conditions or, in the
case of such material U.S. Licenses, that the holder of any such
License would not be entitled to a renewal expectancy as such term is
defined in 47 C.F.R. section 22.941 or any successor provisions and
associated FCC policies.
2.1.14. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY.
2.1.14.1. AirTouch owns the entire right, title and interest in
and to or has the right to use (pursuant to valid and defensible
license arrangements), all Intellectual Property (as defined below)
used or held for use in, or otherwise necessary for, the operation of
its business as presently operated, except as would not, individually
or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material
Adverse Effect. Except as provided in subparagraph 2.1.14 of the
AirTouch Disclosure Letter, there are no pending, or to the knowledge
of the AirTouch Officers, threatened proceedings or litigation or
other adverse claims affecting or relating to any such Intellectual
Property, nor, to the knowledge of the AirTouch Officers, any
reasonable basis upon which a claim may be asserted by or against
AirTouch for infringement of any such Intellectual Property that,
individually or in the aggregate, would reasonably be expected to
have a Material Adverse Effect on AirTouch's business as presently
operated. As used herein, "INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY" means all
industrial and intellectual property rights, including proprietary
technology, patents, patent applications, trademarks, trademark
applications and registrations, servicemarks, servicemark
applications and registrations, trade dress, copyrights, know-how,
licenses, trade secrets, proprietary processes, formulae and customer
lists.
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2.1.14.2. Vodafone owns the entire right, title and interest in
and to or has the right to use (pursuant to valid and defensible
license arrangements), all Intellectual Property used or held for use
in, or otherwise necessary for, the operation of its business as
presently operated, except as would not, individually or in the
aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect.
Except as provided in subparagraph 2.1.14 of the Vodafone Disclosure
Letter, there are no pending, or to the knowledge of the Vodafone
Managing Directors, threatened proceedings or litigation or other
adverse claims affecting or relating to any such Intellectual
Property, nor, to the knowledge of the Vodafone Managing Directors,
any reasonable basis upon which a claim may be asserted by or against
Vodafone for infringement of any such Intellectual Property that,
individually or in the aggregate, would reasonably be expected to
have a Material Adverse Effect on Vodafone's business as presently
operated.
2.1.15. YEAR 2000 COMPLIANCE. To the knowledge of the AirTouch
Officers, in the case of AirTouch and its Subsidiaries and the Vodafone
Executive Directors, in the case of Vodafone and its Subsidiaries, (i) it
and its Subsidiaries have taken steps that are reasonable to ensure that
the occurrence of the year 2000 will not materially and adversely affect
its and its Subsidiaries' information and business systems, (ii) as of
the date hereof, no material expenditures in excess of currently budgeted
items will be required to cause such systems to operate properly
following the change of the year 1999 to the year 2000 and (iii) there is
no fact or circumstance that would lead one to reasonably conclude that
it will be unable to resolve any issues with respect to its mission
critical systems arising in connection with the change from the year 1999
to the year 2000 on a timely basis before the year 2000, except for such
issues which, if not resolved, would not reasonably be likely to have a
Material Adverse Effect on it.
2.1.16. RIGHTS PLAN. AirTouch will take all necessary action with
respect to all of the outstanding Rights so that, as of immediately prior
to the Effective Time, (A) neither AirTouch nor Vodafone will have any
obligations under the Rights or the Rights Agreement and (B) the holders
of the Rights will have no rights under the Rights or the Rights
Agreement.
2.1.17. JOINT VENTURES. Set forth in subparagraph 2.1.17 of its
Disclosure Letter is a list as of the date hereof of all material
organizational documents, shareholder, partnership, membership, voting or
joint venture agreements and agreements relating to existing restrictions
on the transfer of investments to which it or its Subsidiaries is a party
in connection with joint ventures in which the greater of the fair market
value or book value of its or its Subsidiaries' investment in such joint
venture exceeds $200 million ("JOINT VENTURE AGREEMENTS"). All of its
Joint Venture Agreements are, with respect to it and its Subsidiaries,
valid and in full force and effect on the date hereof except to the
extent they have previously expired in accordance with their terms, or if
the failure to be in full force and effect, individually or in the
aggregate, would not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse
Effect on it. Neither it nor any of its Subsidiaries has violated any
provision of, or committed or failed to perform any act which with or
without notice, lapse of time or both would constitute a default under
the provisions of, any of its Joint Venture Agreements, except in each
case for such as, individually or in the aggregate, would not reasonably
be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect on it; it being
understood that no effect arising out of the execution, performance or
consummation of this Agreement shall be deemed to have a Material Adverse
Effect for purposes of this Section 2.1.17.
2.1.18. TAX MATTERS. Neither it nor any of its Affiliates has taken
or agreed to take any action that would, or failed to take any action the
omission of which would, prevent or impede the Merger from qualifying as
a reorganization under Section 368(a) of the U.S. Code.
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ARTICLE III
COVENANTS
3.1. INTERIM OPERATIONS. Each of AirTouch and Vodafone covenants and
agrees as to itself and its Subsidiaries that, after the date hereof and until
the Effective Time (unless the other Party shall otherwise approve in writing
(such approval not to be unreasonably withheld) and except as otherwise
expressly contemplated by or provided in this Agreement (including such Party's
Disclosure Letter), or as required by applicable Law):
3.1.1. the business of it and its Subsidiaries shall be conducted in
the ordinary and usual course and, to the extent consistent therewith, it
and each of its Subsidiaries shall use its best reasonable efforts to
preserve its business organization intact, maintain its Licenses in force
and without the imposition of new material restrictions or conditions,
and maintain its existing relations and goodwill with customers,
suppliers, creditors, regulators, lessors, employees and business
associates;
3.1.2. it shall not (i) amend its certificate of incorporation or
by-laws, in the case of AirTouch, or memorandum and articles of
association, in the case of Vodafone; (ii) split, combine, subdivide or
reclassify its outstanding shares of capital stock; (iii) declare, set
aside or pay any dividend or distribution payable in cash, stock or
property in respect of any capital stock other than (A) in the case of
AirTouch mandatory dividends payable on AirTouch Preferred Shares
outstanding as of the date hereof and (B) in the case of Vodafone,
regular biannual cash dividends, consistent with past practice and on
record dates consistent with past practice, including periodic dividend
increases consistent with past practice; or (iv) repurchase, redeem or
otherwise acquire, or permit any of its Subsidiaries to purchase or
otherwise acquire (except for repurchases, redemptions or acquisitions
(A) required by the terms of its capital stock or securities outstanding
on the date hereof, (B) required by or in connection with the respective
terms as of the date hereof of, any AirTouch Stock Plans, in the case of
AirTouch, or Option Schemes, in the case of Vodafone, or any dividend
reinvestment plans or scrip dividend plans as in effect on the date
hereof in the ordinary course of the operation of such plans, (C) in the
case of Vodafone, required to effect the Redenomination or (D) in the
case of AirTouch, at prices not higher than prevailing market prices),
any shares of the capital stock of Vodafone or AirTouch, as the case may
be, or any securities convertible into or exchangeable or exercisable for
any shares of its capital stock;
3.1.3. neither it nor any of its Subsidiaries shall (i) issue, sell,
pledge, dispose of or encumber any shares of, or securities convertible
into or exchangeable or exercisable for, or rights, options, warrants,
conversion rights, stock appreciation rights, redemption rights,
repurchase rights, agreements, arrangements, calls, commitments or rights
of any kind to acquire, the capital stock of Vodafone or AirTouch, as the
case may be, of any class (other than (x) in the case of AirTouch,
AirTouch Common Shares issuable pursuant to AirTouch Stock Options or
rights outstanding on the date hereof under the AirTouch Stock Plans, (y)
in the case of Vodafone, Vodafone Ordinary Shares issuable or
transferable pursuant to options or rights outstanding on the date hereof
under the Option Schemes, additional options or rights to acquire
Vodafone Ordinary Shares granted under the terms of any Option Scheme as
in effect on the date hereof in the ordinary course of the operation of
such Option Scheme and Vodafone Ordinary Shares issuable or transferable
pursuant to such options or rights so granted, and (z) other issuances of
securities in connection with grants, awards or issuances of stock in
connection with stock-based compensation made in accordance with
paragraph 3.1.4 hereof or under scrip dividend plans as in effect as of
the date hereof); (ii) incur or modify any significant indebtedness or
other liability except in the ordinary and usual course of business or
pursuant to financial plans previously communicated to the other Party,
or for
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long-term indebtedness incurred in connection with the refinancing of
existing indebtedness, without first consulting with the other Party; or
(iii) make any decision or commitment with respect to a significant
investment or divestment except in the ordinary and usual course of
business or pursuant to financial plans previously communicated to the
other Party without first consulting with the other Party;
3.1.4. neither it nor any of its Subsidiaries shall terminate,
establish, adopt, enter into, make any new grants or awards of
stock-based compensation or other benefits under, amend or otherwise
modify any compensation or benefit plan or agreement or increase the
salary, wage, bonus or other compensation of any directors, officers or
employees except for grants or awards to directors, officers and
employees of it or its Subsidiaries under existing compensation or
benefit plans or agreements in the normal and usual course of business
(which shall include normal periodic performance reviews) and related
compensation and benefit increases, annual reestablishment of
compensation or benefit plans or agreements and the provision of
individual compensation or benefit plans or agreements for newly hired or
appointed officers and employees and the adoption of compensation or
benefit plans or agreements for employees of new Subsidiaries or except
for actions necessary to satisfy existing contractual obligations under
compensation or benefit plans or agreements existing as of the date
hereof. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein,
AirTouch shall not make any grants or awards of stock-based compensation
prior to the Effective Time except for grants, awards or issuances in the
normal and usual course of business consistent with past practice (i) as
required by existing contractual obligations under compensation or
benefit plans or agreements existing as of the date hereof, (ii) made to
newly hired or appointed officers and employees, (iii) made in connection
with the promotion to new positions or titles of existing officers and
employees or (iv) pursuant to AirTouch's existing 401(k) plan or employee
stock purchase plan, and provided that the aggregate number of shares of
AirTouch Common Stock calculated on a fully-diluted basis immediately
prior to the Effective Time shall not exceed an amount equal to the sum
of the number of shares of AirTouch Common Stock calculated on a
fully-diluted basis on the date of this Agreement plus 500,000. Any
breach of the covenants contained in the immediately preceding sentence
shall entitle Vodafone both to (x) injunctive relief and (y) damages
determined without regard to any limitation as to materiality or a
Material Adverse Effect hereunder payable by a downward adjustment in the
Cash Consideration or AirTouch Cash Payment, as applicable.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained herein, AirTouch shall
not grant any new awards under the AirTouch Gold program, and shall not
make any payments prior to the Effective Time in respect of awards
existing on the date hereof, except in each case, as required by existing
contractual obligations as of the date hereof.
3.1.5. It will use its best efforts to cause the Merger to
constitute a reorganization under Section 368(a) of the U.S. Code.
Vodafone shall deliver an Officer's Certificate substantially in the form
of Exhibit 3.1.5.1 executed as of the Closing Date and AirTouch shall
deliver an Officer's Certificate substantially in the form of Exhibit
3.1.5.2 executed as of the Closing Date. The Parties hereto shall timely
satisfy, or cause to be timely satisfied, all applicable tax reporting
and filing requirements contained in the U.S. Code with respect to the
transactions contemplated hereby, including, without limitation, the
reporting requirements contained in United States Treasury Regulation
Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(6).
3.1.6. It shall cooperate with the other between the date hereof and
the Closing Date, and shall use its reasonable efforts, to satisfy the
test set forth in United States Treasury Regulation Section
1.367(a)-3(c)(1)(i) (the "50% TEST").
3.1.7. It shall cooperate with the other between the date hereof and
the Closing Date, and shall use its reasonable efforts, to obtain from
the IRS prior to December 31, 1999 a
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private letter ruling (the "PRIVATE LETTER RULING") with respect to the
transactions contemplated by the Agreement as described in United States
Treasury Regulations Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(9); the preparation of such
ruling request, and any oral or written communication with the Internal
Revenue Service, shall be conducted jointly by Vodafone and AirTouch.
3.2. ACQUISITION PROPOSALS.
3.2.1. Each of AirTouch and Vodafone agrees that, subject to paragraph
3.2.3 and except as expressly contemplated by this Agreement, neither it nor
any of its Subsidiaries nor any of the officers or directors of it or its
Subsidiaries shall, and that it shall direct and use its best reasonable
efforts to cause its and its Subsidiaries' officers, directors, employees,
investment bankers, attorneys, accountants, financial advisors, agents or
other representatives (collectively, with respect to each of AirTouch and
Vodafone, such Person's "REPRESENTATIVES") not to, directly or indirectly,
initiate, solicit, encourage or otherwise facilitate any inquiries or the
making of any proposal or offer with respect to a merger, reorganization,
share exchange, dual-holding company transaction, consolidation or similar
transaction involving AirTouch or Vodafone, or any purchase of, or offer to
purchase, all or substantially all of the equity securities of AirTouch or
Vodafone, as the case may be, or of its and its Subsidiaries' assets taken
as a whole (any such proposal or offer being hereinafter referred to as an
"ACQUISITION PROPOSAL"). Each of AirTouch and Vodafone further agrees that
neither it nor any of its Subsidiaries nor any of its or its Subsidiaries'
officers or directors shall, and that it shall direct and use its best
reasonable efforts to cause its Representatives not to, directly or
indirectly, have any discussions with or provide any confidential
information or data to any Person relating to an Acquisition Proposal or
engage in any negotiations concerning an Acquisition Proposal, or otherwise
facilitate any effort or attempt to make or implement an Acquisition
Proposal; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that nothing contained in this Agreement shall
prevent either AirTouch or Vodafone or its board of directors from (i)
making any disclosure to its shareholders if, in the good faith judgment of
its board of directors, failure so to disclose would be inconsistent with
its obligations under applicable Law; (ii) negotiating with or furnishing
information to any Person who has made a bona fide written Acquisition
Proposal which did not result from a breach of this Section 3.2.1.; or (iii)
recommending such an Acquisition Proposal to its shareholders, if and only
to the extent that, in the case of actions referred to in clause (ii) or
clause (iii), such Acquisition Proposal is a Superior Proposal (as defined
below). For purposes of this Agreement, a "SUPERIOR PROPOSAL" means in
respect of AirTouch or Vodafone, as applicable, any Acquisition Proposal by
a third party (x) on terms which the board of directors of such Party
determines in its good faith judgment, after consultation with its financial
advisors (whose advice shall be communicated to the other Party), to be more
favorable from a financial point of view to its stockholders, in the case of
AirTouch, or its shareholders, in the case of Vodafone, than the Merger and
the other transactions contemplated hereby after giving the other Party at
least five business days notice of all material terms and conditions of such
Acquisition Proposal to respond to such third party Acquisition Proposal and
(y) which the board of directors of such Party determines in its good faith
judgment to constitute a transaction that is reasonably likely to be
consummated on the terms set forth, taking into account all legal,
financial, regulatory and other aspects of such proposal. Each of AirTouch
and Vodafone agrees that it will, on the date hereof, immediately cease and
cause to be terminated any existing activities, discussions or negotiations
with any Person conducted heretofore with respect to any Acquisition
Proposal. Each of AirTouch and Vodafone also agrees that if it has not
already done so, it will promptly request each Person, if any, that has
heretofore executed a confidentiality agreement within the 12 months prior
to the date hereof in connection with its consideration of any Acquisition
Proposal to return or destroy all confidential information heretofore
furnished to such Person by or on behalf of it or any of its Subsidiaries.
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3.2.2. Each of AirTouch and Vodafone agrees that it will take the
necessary steps promptly to inform its Subsidiaries and its and its
Subsidiaries' Representatives of the obligations undertaken in this Section
3.2. (Acquisition Proposals). Each of AirTouch and Vodafone agrees that it
will notify the other promptly (and in any case within 24 hours) if any such
inquiries, proposals or offers relating to or constituting an Acquisition
Proposal are received by, any such information is requested from, or any
such discussions or negotiations are sought to be initiated or continued
with, any of its or its Subsidiaries' Representatives (such notice to
include the name of the party making such inquiry, proposal, offer or
request).
3.2.3. Nothing contained herein shall prohibit a Party from taking and
disclosing to its shareholders a position contemplated by Rule 14d-9 or Rule
14e-2(a) under the Exchange Act with respect to an Acquisition Proposal by
means of a tender or exchange offer or, in the case of Vodafone, taking such
action and making such recommendations as the directors of Vodafone
reasonably consider necessary so as to comply with any obligations imposed
on them or Vodafone by the City Code on Takeovers and Mergers (the "CITY
CODE") or the Takeover Panel in relation to any Acquisition Proposal,
provided that, it is hereby acknowledged, for the avoidance of doubt, that
no provision of the City Code requires Vodafone or its directors to solicit
or initiate any Acquisition Proposal.
3.3. INFORMATION SUPPLIED.
3.3.1. REGISTRATION STATEMENT.
3.3.1.1. Each of Vodafone and AirTouch shall cooperate and as
promptly as practicable prepare and Vodafone shall file with the SEC as
soon as practicable a Registration Statement on Form F-4 (the "FORM F-4")
(or any successor form) under the Securities Act, with respect to the
issuance pursuant to this Agreement of the Vodafone Ordinary Shares
represented by Vodafone Depositary Shares, which Registration Statement
shall include the proxy statement/ prospectus to be sent to holders of
AirTouch Common Shares and Class B Preferred Shares (the "AIRTOUCH PROXY
STATEMENT"). The Parties will cause the Form F-4 to comply as to form in
all material respects with the applicable provisions of the Securities
Act and the rules and regulations thereunder. Each of Vodafone and
AirTouch shall use its respective best reasonable efforts to have the
Form F-4 declared effective by the SEC as promptly as practicable after
such filing. Vodafone shall use its reasonable efforts to obtain, prior
to the effective date of the Form F-4, all necessary state securities law
or "Blue Sky" permits or approvals required to carry out the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement. Vodafone will advise AirTouch, promptly
after it receives notice thereof, of the time when the Form F-4 has
become effective or any supplement or amendment has been filed, the
issuance of any stop order, the suspension of the qualification of the
Vodafone Ordinary Shares represented by Vodafone Depositary Shares
issuable in connection with the Merger for offering or sale in any
jurisdiction, or any request by the SEC for amendment of the AirTouch
Proxy Statement or the Form F-4 or comments thereon and responses thereto
or requests by the SEC for additional information.
3.3.1.2. AirTouch and Vodafone each agrees, as to itself and its
Subsidiaries, that none of the information supplied or to be supplied by
it or its Subsidiaries for inclusion or incorporation by reference in the
Form F-4, including, without limitation, the AirTouch Proxy Statement and
any amendment or supplement thereto will, at the time the Form F-4
becomes effective under the Securities Act, at the date of mailing to
shareholders and at the time or times of the AirTouch Shareholders
Meeting, contain any untrue statement of a material fact or omit to state
any material fact required to be stated therein or necessary in order to
make the statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under
which they were made, not misleading. If at any time prior to the date of
the AirTouch Shareholders Meeting any
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information relating to AirTouch or Vodafone, or any of their respective
Affiliates, officers or directors, should be discovered by AirTouch or
Vodafone which should be set forth in an amendment to the Form F-4 or a
supplement to the AirTouch Proxy Statement, so that such document would
not include any misstatement of a material fact or omit to state any
material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the
statements therein, in the light of the circumstances under which they
were made, not misleading, the Party which discovers such information
shall promptly notify the other Party and, to the extent required by Law,
an appropriate amendment or supplement describing such information shall
be promptly filed with the SEC and, to the extent required by law,
disseminated to the AirTouch shareholders.
3.3.1.3. Each of Vodafone and AirTouch will use its best reasonable
efforts to cause the Vodafone Documents (as defined in Section 3.3.2.)
and the definitive AirTouch Proxy Statement, respectively, to be mailed
to its shareholders as promptly as practicable after the date hereof.
3.3.2. AirTouch and Vodafone shall cooperate with respect to and
Vodafone shall as promptly as practicable prepare and file with the LSE (a)
a circular to be sent to Vodafone shareholders in connection with the
Vodafone Shareholders Meeting (as defined in Section 3.4. (Shareholders
Meetings)) (the "VODAFONE CIRCULAR"), containing (i) a notice convening the
Vodafone Shareholders Meeting, (ii) such other information (if any) as may
be required by the LSE and the City Code and (iii) such other information as
Vodafone and AirTouch shall agree to include therein; and (b) listing
particulars relating to Vodafone and its Subsidiaries and the Vodafone
Ordinary Shares (the "VODAFONE LISTING PARTICULARS," and the Vodafone
Circular and the Vodafone Listing Particulars together being the "VODAFONE
DOCUMENTS"). AirTouch and Vodafone each agrees, as to itself and its
Subsidiaries, that the Vodafone Documents and any supplements thereto and
any other circulars or documents issued to shareholders, employees of
Vodafone, will contain all particulars relating to AirTouch and Vodafone
required to comply in all material respects with all United Kingdom
statutory and other legal provisions (including, without limitation, the
Companies Act, the Financial Services Act 1986 (the "FSA") and the rules and
regulations made thereunder, and the rules and requirements of the LSE and
the City Code) and all such information contained in such documents will be
substantially in accordance with the facts and will not omit anything
material likely to affect the import of such information.
3.4. SHAREHOLDERS MEETINGS. AirTouch will take all action necessary to
convene a meeting of the holders of AirTouch Common Shares and Class B Preferred
Shares at which the holders of AirTouch Common Shares and AirTouch Class B
Preferred Shares shall consider adoption of this Agreement and the transactions
contemplated hereby (including, without limitation, the Initial Merger) (the
"AIRTOUCH SHAREHOLDERS MEETING") as promptly as practicable after the Form F-4
has been declared effective by the SEC. Vodafone will take all action necessary
to convene an extraordinary general meeting of holders of Vodafone Ordinary
Shares at which resolutions will be proposed to approve the Merger and the other
matters specified in the next succeeding sentence (the "VODAFONE SHAREHOLDERS
MEETING") as promptly as practicable after the Vodafone Documents are cleared by
the LSE and the Form F-4 has been declared effective by the SEC. Vodafone shall
propose at the Vodafone Shareholders Meeting referred to above the following
resolutions: (i) resolutions to approve all of the following transactions or
matters: (A) the Merger, (B) an increase in the authorized ordinary share
capital of Vodafone, and (C) the authorization of the Vodafone Board to allot
securities, including to AirTouch shareholders pursuant to the Merger; (ii)
resolutions to approve amendments to the Vodafone Articles of Association to
change the name of Vodafone to "Vodafone AirTouch Plc"; (iii) resolutions to
elect the New Directors (as defined in Section 3.8.3.) designated by AirTouch as
directors of Vodafone, subject to the Merger becoming effective; (iv) a
resolution to approve amendments to the Vodafone Articles of Association and
other transactions necessary to effect the Redenomination; (v) resolutions to
increase the ordinary remuneration of directors of Vodafone, to approve the
rules of the Vodafone AirTouch Share Option
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Plan and Vodafone AirTouch Long Term Incentive Plan and other compensation or
benefits for employees overseas which are based on the Vodafone AirTouch Share
Option Plan or the Vodafone AirTouch Long Term Incentive Plan; and (vi)
resolutions to amend the Vodafone Articles of Association to provide for the
delivery of notice of Vodafone Board meetings to Directors outside the U.K., to
provide for the appointment of multiple proxies by certain types of
shareholders, to provide that the Chairman of the Board of Directors shall not
have the casting vote, to permit the appointment of substitutes instead of the
proxies and to provide that special and extraordinary resolutions shall be taken
on a poll, to allow the issue of Bearer Shares, and to make certain other minor
amendments. Vodafone and AirTouch each agrees to use all reasonable efforts such
that, to the extent practical, the AirTouch Shareholders Meeting and the
Vodafone Shareholders Meeting shall be held as promptly as practicable after the
conditions precedent to holding such meetings have been fulfilled. Subject to
fiduciary obligations and the requirements of applicable Law and the terms of
this Agreement, including the provisions of Section 3.2. (Acquisition
Proposals), the board of directors of each of Vodafone and AirTouch shall
recommend to its respective shareholders the approval of the Merger and the
other transactions contemplated hereby and shall use best reasonable efforts to
solicit such approval.
3.5. FILINGS; OTHER ACTIONS; NOTIFICATION.
3.5.1. AirTouch and Vodafone shall each cooperate with the other and
(i) use (and shall use best reasonable efforts to cause their respective
Subsidiaries to use) all their respective best reasonable efforts promptly
to take or cause to be taken all actions, and do or cause to be done all
things, necessary, proper or advisable under this Agreement and applicable
Laws to consummate and make effective the Merger and the other transactions
contemplated by this Agreement as soon as practicable, including preparing
and filing as promptly as practicable all documentation to effect all
necessary filings, notices, petitions, statements, registrations,
submissions of information, applications and other documents, (ii) use (and
shall use best reasonable efforts to cause their respective Subsidiaries to
use) all their respective best reasonable efforts to obtain as promptly as
practicable all approvals, consents, registrations, permits, authorizations
and other confirmations required to be obtained from any third party (other
than AirTouch Required Consents and Vodafone Required Consents) necessary,
proper or advisable to consummate the Merger and the other transactions
contemplated by this Agreement and (iii) use (and shall use best reasonable
efforts to cause their respective Subsidiaries to use) their respective best
efforts to take or cause to be taken all actions, and do or cause to be done
all things, necessary, proper or advisable to obtain the AirTouch Required
Consents or Vodafone Required Consents, as the case may be (including,
without limitation, selling or otherwise disposing of or agreeing to dispose
of or hold separate such assets, categories of assets or businesses of
Vodafone (including Vodafone's investment in E-Plus Mobilfunk Gmbh) or
AirTouch as necessary to obtain, such AirTouch Required Consents or Vodafone
Required Consents; PROVIDED that neither Party shall be required by this
Section 3.5.1.(iii) to take any action or accept or agree to any conditions,
terms or restrictions in connection with any such AirTouch Required Consent
or Vodafone Required Consent, as the case may be, which, individually or in
the aggregate, would be reasonably expected to have a Material Adverse
Effect on Vodafone or AirTouch after the Effective Time (it being understood
that, for this purpose, materiality shall be considered with reference to
the total equity market value of Vodafone and AirTouch). Subject to
applicable Laws relating to the exchange of information, AirTouch and
Vodafone shall have the right to review in advance, and to the extent
practicable each will consult the other on, all the information relating to
AirTouch and its Subsidiaries or Vodafone and its Subsidiaries, as the case
may be, that appears in any filing made with, or written materials submitted
to, any third party and/or any Governmental Entity in connection with the
Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement. In
exercising the foregoing right, each of AirTouch and Vodafone shall act
reasonably and as promptly as practicable.
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3.5.2. AirTouch and Vodafone each shall, upon request by the other,
furnish the other with all information concerning itself, its Subsidiaries,
directors, officers and shareholders and such other matters as may be
reasonably necessary or advisable in connection with the Form F-4, the
AirTouch Proxy Statement, the Vodafone Documents or any other necessary or
appropriate filing, notice, statement, registration, submission of
information or application made by or on behalf of AirTouch or Vodafone or
any of their respective Subsidiaries to any third party and/or any
Governmental Entity in connection with the Merger and the other transactions
contemplated by this Agreement.
3.5.3. AirTouch and Vodafone each shall keep the other apprised of the
status of matters relating to completion of the Merger and the other
transactions contemplated by this Agreement, including promptly furnishing
the other with copies of notices or other communications received by
AirTouch or Vodafone, as the case may be, or any of its Subsidiaries, from
any third party and/or any Governmental Entity with respect to the Merger
and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement. AirTouch and
Vodafone each shall give prompt notice to the other of any change that
would, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to result in
a Material Adverse Effect on it or of any failure of any condition set forth
in Article IV to the other Party's obligations to effect the Merger.
3.5.4. Prior to making any filing, notice, petition, statement,
registration, submission of information or application to or with any third
party and/or Governmental Entity (including any domestic or foreign national
securities exchange) in connection with the consummation of the Merger and
the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement and except as may be
required by Law or by obligations pursuant to any listing agreement with or
rules of any domestic or foreign national securities exchange, each Party
shall make all reasonable efforts to consult with the other Party with
respect to the content of such filing, notice, petition, statement,
registration, submission of information or application and to provide the
other Party with copies of the proposed filing, notice, petition, statement,
registration, submission of information or application. AirTouch and
Vodafone each shall not agree to participate in any meeting with any
Governmental Entity in respect of any filings, investigation or other
inquiry relating to the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by
this Agreement unless it consults with the other Party in advance and, to
the extent practicable and permitted by such Governmental Entity, gives the
other Party the opportunity to attend and participate thereat.
3.5.5. In the event any claim, action, suit, investigation or other
proceeding by any Governmental Entity or other Person or other legal or
administrative proceeding is commenced that questions the validity or
legality of this Agreement or the Merger or the other transactions
contemplated by this Agreement or claims or damages in connection therewith,
the Parties agree to cooperate and use their best efforts, subject to the
limitations set forth in Section 3.5.1.(iii), to defend against and respond
thereto.
3.6. ACCESS. In order to facilitate consummation of the Merger and the
other transactions contemplated by this Agreement, the Parties hereby agree that
upon reasonable request to any executive officer of Vodafone or AirTouch, as the
case may be, designated for the purpose, and except as may otherwise be required
by applicable Law, AirTouch and Vodafone each shall (and shall cause its
Subsidiaries to) afford the other's Representatives access, during normal
business hours throughout the period prior to the Effective Time, to its
properties, books, contracts and records and, during such period, each shall
(and shall cause its Subsidiaries to) furnish promptly to the other all
information concerning its business, properties and personnel as may reasonably
be requested, PROVIDED that no receipt of information pursuant to this Section
shall affect or be deemed to modify any representation or warranty made by
AirTouch or Vodafone hereunder, and PROVIDED, FURTHER, that the foregoing shall
not require AirTouch or Vodafone to permit any inquiry, or to disclose any
information, that in the reasonable judgment of AirTouch or Vodafone, as the
case may be, would (i) violate any antitrust or
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competition Law or (ii) result in the disclosure of any trade secrets of third
Parties or violate any of its obligations with respect to confidentiality to
third Parties if AirTouch or Vodafone, as the case may be, shall have used
reasonable efforts to obtain the consent of such third party to such inspection
or disclosure. All such information shall be governed by the terms of the
Confidentiality Agreement, dated as of January 6, 1999, between the Parties (the
"CONFIDENTIALITY AGREEMENT"), including without limitation all such information
disclosed in the Disclosure Letters.
3.7. PUBLICITY. The initial press release concerning this Agreement, the
Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement shall be a
joint press release, and thereafter AirTouch and Vodafone shall consult with
each other prior to issuing any press releases or otherwise making public
announcements with respect to the Merger and the other transactions contemplated
by this Agreement.
3.8. BENEFITS AND OTHER MATTERS.
3.8.1. EMPLOYEE BENEFITS.
3.8.1.1. It is the specific intention that the compensation and
benefit programs (including annual and long-term incentive programs) to
be provided by Vodafone and its Subsidiaries for current and former
employees and directors of AirTouch will be competitive with those
provided generally by large industrial companies for each respective
home-country market, both with respect to the type and variety of
programs as well as the level of compensation and benefits afforded.
3.8.1.2. (a) Without limiting the generality of Section 3.8.1.1.,
Vodafone shall cause the AirTouch compensation and benefit plans in
effect on the date hereof to remain in effect for at least one year after
the Effective Time without change to the eligibility provisions and
levels of benefits provided thereunder.
(b) Following the Effective Time, Vodafone shall, and shall cause its
Subsidiaries to, recognize service with AirTouch and its Subsidiaries and
any predecessor entities (and any other service credited by AirTouch
under similar benefit plans) prior to the Effective Time for all purposes
(including, without limitation, eligibility to participate, vesting,
benefit accrual, eligibility to commence benefits and severance) under
any benefit plans of Vodafone or its Subsidiaries in which the particular
employee or former employee of AirTouch (or its respective Subsidiaries)
participates; PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that the foregoing shall not result in
any duplication of benefits for the same period of service. From and
after the Effective Time, Vodafone shall, and shall cause its
Subsidiaries to, (i) recognize any and all appropriate out-of-pocket
expenses of each employee or former employee of AirTouch and its
Subsidiaries for purposes of determining such employee's and former
employee's (including their beneficiaries and dependents) deductible and
copayment expenses and (ii) cause to be waived any provision which
restricts benefits by reason of pre-existing conditions.
3.8.1.3. From and after the Effective Time, Vodafone shall honor,
and shall cause its Subsidiaries to honor, in accordance with its terms,
each existing employment, change of control, severance and termination
agreement between AirTouch or any of its Subsidiaries, and any officer,
director or employee of such company, including without limitation all
legal and contractual obligations pursuant to outstanding bonus deferral
plans, vested and accrued benefits and similar employment and benefit
arrangements and agreements in effect as of the Effective Time.
3.1.8.4. Vodafone agrees that for three years following the
Effective Time it shall maintain a significant business presence in the
San Francisco Bay Area, including, but not limited to maintaining the Bay
Area Research Tech Facility. In addition, Vodafone agrees that AirTouch's
San Francisco office shall initially be maintained as Vodafone's
U.S./Asia Pacific regional headquarters.
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3.8.2. DIRECTOR AND OFFICER INDEMNIFICATION AND INSURANCE.
(a) Vodafone agrees that all rights to indemnification and all
limitations on liability existing in favor of any Indemnitee (as defined
below) in respect of acts or omissions of such Indemnitees on or prior to
the Effective Time as provided in the certificate of incorporation and
by-laws of AirTouch and each of its Subsidiaries or an agreement between
an Indemnitee and AirTouch or any of its Subsidiaries in effect as of the
date hereof shall continue in full force and effect in accordance with
the terms thereof.
(b) For six years after the Effective Time, Vodafone shall indemnify
and hold harmless the individuals who on or prior to the Effective Time
were officers or directors or agents of AirTouch or any of its
Subsidiaries (the "INDEMNITEES") to the same extent indemnification is
provided as of the date hereof with respect to all actions or omissions
by them in their capacities as officers or directors or agents of
AirTouch, or taken by them at the request of, AirTouch or any of its
Subsidiaries. In the event any claim in respect of which indemnification
is available pursuant to the foregoing provisions is asserted or made
within the period specified in the previous sentence, all rights to
indemnification shall continue until such claim is disposed of or all
judgments, orders, decrees or other rulings in connection with such claim
are duly satisfied.
(c) For six years after the Effective Time, Vodafone shall procure
the provision of officers' and directors' liability insurance in respect
of acts or omissions occurring prior to the Effective Time covering each
such Person currently covered by AirTouch's officers' and directors'
liability insurance on terms with respect to coverage and in amounts no
less favorable than those of such policy in effect on the date hereof;
PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that during such period, Vodafone shall not be
required to procure any coverage in excess of the amount that can be
obtained for the remainder of such period for an annual premium of 150%
of the current annual premium paid by AirTouch for its existing coverage.
(d) The obligations of Vodafone under this Section 3.8.2. shall not
be terminated or modified in such a manner as to adversely affect any
Indemnitee to whom this Section 3.8.2. applies without the consent of
such affected Indemnitee (it being expressly agreed that the Indemnitees
to whom this Section 3.8.2. applies shall be third party beneficiaries of
this Section 3.8.2.).
3.8.3. DIRECTORS OF VODAFONE. At the Effective Time, the board of
directors of Vodafone AirTouch Plc shall consist of 14 directors, 7 of which
shall be directors designated prior to the Effective Time by Vodafone, of
which 3 shall be non-executive directors, and 7 of which shall be directors
designated by AirTouch, of which 5 shall be non-executive directors, and
such AirTouch and Vodafone director designees shall be the "NEW DIRECTORS."
Those New Directors designated by AirTouch shall be nominated for election
as directors of Vodafone AirTouch Plc with effect from the Effective Time.
Vodafone agrees to procure such resignations of its respective directors as
may be necessary so that at the Effective Time the New Directors are the
only directors of Vodafone AirTouch Plc. At the Effective Time, the current
chief executive officer of AirTouch, so long as he is willing and able to
serve, shall be appointed the Non-Executive Chairman of Vodafone AirTouch
Plc. At the Effective Time, one of the New Directors selected by Vodafone
who is a non-executive director shall be appointed as Deputy Chairman of
Vodafone AirTouch Plc. The Deputy Chairman shall be appointed as Chairman of
the Nominations Committee of the Vodafone AirTouch Plc board of directors.
The present Chairman of AirTouch shall be appointed as Chairman of the
remuneration committee of the Vodafone AirTouch Plc board of directors.
Following the Effective Time, a majority of the meetings of the board of
directors of Vodafone AirTouch Plc in each year shall be held in England.
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3.8.4. OFFICERS. At the Effective Time, the current Chief Executive
Officer of Vodafone, so long as he is willing and able to serve, shall be
appointed the Chief Executive Officer of Vodafone AirTouch Plc and the
current President and Chief Operating Officer of AirTouch, so long as he is
willing and able to serve, shall be appointed Regional Chief Executive
Officer of Vodafone AirTouch Plc for Vodafone's U.S./Asia Pacific region and
Manager, Bay Area Research Tech Facility. All executive directors will
report to the Chief Executive Officer of Vodafone AirTouch Plc.
3.9. EXPENSES. Except as otherwise provided in Section 5.5. (Effect of
Termination and Abandonment), whether or not the Merger is consummated, all
costs and expenses incurred in connection with this Agreement, the Merger and
the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement shall be paid by the Party
incurring such expense, except that the Parties shall share equally the costs
and expenses of filing, printing and distributing the Form F-4, the AirTouch
Proxy Statement, the Vodafone Documents and related documents. Any real property
transfer, stamp or similar tax imposed on the stockholders of AirTouch in
connection with this Agreement and the transactions contemplated hereby shall be
paid solely by AirTouch from its own cash on hand or out of its own borrowings.
In no event shall Vodafone or its affiliates provide directly or indirectly any
funds to AirTouch in respect of any such payments or the repayment of any such
borrowings. Prior to the Effective Time, AirTouch will deposit in escrow cash
and/or cash equivalents in an amount sufficient to satisfy any such payment
obligation to, or on behalf of, its stockholders. Any such payment obligation
will be satisfied solely out of the deposited escrowed funds.
3.10. TAKEOVER STATUTES. If any Takeover Statute is or may become
applicable to the Merger or the other transactions contemplated by this
Agreement, each of AirTouch and Vodafone and its board of directors shall,
subject to applicable Law, grant such approvals and take such actions as are
necessary so that the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this
Agreement may be consummated as promptly as practicable on the terms
contemplated by this Agreement, and otherwise act to eliminate or minimize the
effects of such Takeover Statute on such transactions.
3.11. LISTING APPLICATIONS/ESTABLISHMENT OF VODAFONE DEPOSITARY
SHARES. Vodafone shall promptly prepare and submit to the LSE a listing
application with respect to the Vodafone Ordinary Shares, and to the NYSE a
listing application in respect of the Vodafone Ordinary Shares represented by
Vodafone Depositary Shares issuable in the Merger, and shall use its best
efforts to obtain, prior to the Effective Time, approval for the listing of such
Vodafone Ordinary Shares, in the case of the LSE, subject to allotment, and such
Vodafone Ordinary Shares represented by Vodafone Depositary Shares, in the case
of the NYSE, subject to official notice of issuance under the symbol "VOD", or
such other symbol as the Parties agree. Vodafone will enter into all necessary
agreements with the Depositary and other Parties to establish the Vodafone
Depositary Shares issuable pursuant to the Merger. Vodafone will not take any
action to cause its Ordinary Shares to cease to be listed on the LSE or the
Vodafone Depositary Shares evidenced by Vodafone ADRs to cease to be listed on
the NYSE prior to the Effective Time.
3.12. LETTERS OF ACCOUNTANTS.
(a) AirTouch shall use its best reasonable efforts to cause to be
delivered to Vodafone "comfort" letters of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP,
AirTouch's independent public accountants, dated the effective date of the
Form F-4 and the Closing Date, respectively, and addressed to Vodafone and
its directors, in form reasonably satisfactory to Vodafone and customary in
scope and substance for "comfort" letters delivered by independent public
accountants in connection with registration statements similar to the Form
F-4.
(b) Vodafone shall use its best reasonable efforts to cause to be
delivered to AirTouch "comfort" letters of Deloitte & Touche, Vodafone's
independent public accountants, dated the effective date of the Form F-4 and
the Closing Date, respectively, and addressed to AirTouch and
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its directors, in form reasonably satisfactory to AirTouch and customary in
scope and substance for "comfort" letters delivered by independent public
accountants in connection with registration statements similar to the Form
F-4.
3.13. AGREEMENTS OF AIRTOUCH RULE 145 AFFILIATES. Prior to the date of the
AirTouch Shareholders Meeting, AirTouch shall cause to be prepared and delivered
to Vodafone a list identifying all persons who, at the time of the AirTouch
Shareholders Meeting, AirTouch believes may be deemed to be "affiliates" of
AirTouch for purposes of Rule 145 under the Securities Act (the "AIRTOUCH RULE
145 AFFILIATES"). Vodafone shall be entitled to place customary restrictive
legends on any Vodafone ADRs (or any underlying Vodafone Ordinary Shares that
may be withdrawn upon surrender of such Vodafone ADRs) received by such AirTouch
Rule 145 Affiliates. AirTouch shall use its best efforts to cause each person
who is identified as an AirTouch Rule 145 Affiliate in such list to deliver to
Vodafone, at or prior to the date of the AirTouch Shareholders Meeting, a
written agreement, in the form to be approved by the Parties, that such AirTouch
Rule 145 Affiliate will not sell, pledge, transfer or otherwise dispose of any
Vodafone Depositary Shares issued to such AirTouch Rule 145 Affiliate pursuant
to the Merger (or any underlying Vodafone Ordinary Shares that may be withdrawn
upon surrender of such Vodafone Depositary Shares), except pursuant to an
effective registration statement or in compliance with Rule 145 or an exemption
from the registration requirements of the Securities Act. Vodafone shall not
register the transfer of any Vodafone Ordinary Shares and shall cause the
Depositary not to register the transfer of any Vodafone Depositary Shares unless
such transfer is made in compliance with the foregoing.
3.14. ACCOUNTING MATTERS. The Parties agree that after the Closing the
primary consolidated financial statements of Vodafone shall be prepared in
accordance with U.K. GAAP.
3.15. TRANSITION PLANNING. The existing Chief Executive Officers of
Vodafone and AirTouch, respectively, shall be jointly responsible for
coordinating all aspects of transition planning and implementation relating to
the Merger and the other transactions contemplated hereby; PROVIDED, HOWEVER,
that it is understood and agreed that this Section 3.15. shall not apply to the
provisions of Section 3.8.3. or 3.8.4. hereof and that the corporate
headquarters of Vodafone will remain at Newbury, England. If either such Person
ceases to be Chief Executive Officer of his respective company for any reason,
such Person's successor as Chief Executive Officer shall assume his or her
predecessor's responsibilities under this Section 3.15. During the period
between the date hereof and the Effective Time, such Chief Executive Officers
shall jointly (i) examine various alternatives regarding the business of
AirTouch after the Effective Time, and (ii) coordinate policies and strategies
with respect to regulatory authorities and bodies, in all cases subject to
applicable law. Such Chief Executive Officers shall establish committees to
assist them in various aspects of the transition planning and implementation
process including, without limitation, committees on employee transition issues,
which committees shall consist of representatives of both Vodafone and AirTouch
to be designated by their respective Chief Executive Officers.
3.16. VODAFONE SEC FILINGS. Beginning as soon as practicable after the
Effective Time, and in any event within two years thereof, Vodafone agrees that
it will (i) make filings with the SEC on Form 6-K within 45 days after the end
of each of its first three fiscal quarters in each of its fiscal years
containing the principal financial information required by Form 10-Q and (ii)
make any requisite filings on Form 20-F with the SEC within 90 days after the
end of each of its fiscal years or, in each case, within such shorter time
period as would be required for a U.S. SEC reporting issuer.
3.17. INITIAL MERGER. As soon as practicable after the AirTouch
Shareholders Meeting, AirTouch shall execute and file with the Secretary of
State of the State of Delaware a certificate of merger with respect to the
Initial Merger and make all other filings or recordings required by law in
connection with the Initial Merger.
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3.18. NOTIFICATION OF CERTAIN MATTERS. Each of AirTouch and Vodafone shall
give prompt notice to the other upon obtaining knowledge of any of the
following:
3.18.1. the occurrence or nonoccurrence of any event whose occurrence
or nonoccurrence would be likely to cause either (i) any representation or
warranty contained in this Agreement to be untrue or inaccurate in any
material respect at any time from the date hereof to the Effective Time, or
(ii) directly or indirectly, any Material Adverse Effect on such Party;
3.18.2. any material failure of such Party, or any officer, director,
employee or agent thereof, to comply with or satisfy any covenant, condition
or agreement to be complied with or satisfied by it hereunder, and
3.18.3. any facts relating to such Party which would make it necessary
or advisable to amend the AirTouch Proxy Statement or the Form F-4 in order
to make the statements therein not misleading or to comply with applicable
law;
PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that the delivery of any notice pursuant to this Section
3.18. shall not limit or otherwise affect the remedies available hereunder to
the Party receiving such notice.
3.19. ASSUMPTION OF U S WEST INVESTMENT AGREEMENT. At the Effective Time,
Vodafone will assume the obligations of AirTouch under Articles V and VI of the
Amended and Restated Investment Agreement, dated as of April 6, 1998, between
AirTouch and U S West, Inc. solely to the extent provided in Section 6.9. of
such Agreement.
3.20. AIRTOUCH TREASURY SHARES. Prior to the Effective Time, the Board of
Directors of AirTouch shall have taken all corporate action necessary to retire
all AirTouch Common Shares that are issued but not outstanding.
ARTICLE IV
CONDITIONS
4.1. CONDITIONS TO EACH PARTY'S OBLIGATION TO EFFECT THE MERGER. The
respective obligations of Vodafone, Merger Sub and AirTouch to effect the Merger
are subject to the satisfaction or waiver of each of the following conditions:
4.1.1. SHAREHOLDER APPROVALS. This Agreement and the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement (including the Initial Merger) shall have
been duly adopted by holders of AirTouch Common Shares and Class B Preferred
Shares constituting the AirTouch Requisite Vote and the Merger and the
Vodafone Requisite Resolution shall have been duly approved by the
shareholders of Vodafone constituting the Vodafone Requisite Vote.
4.1.2. REGULATORY CONSENTS. All AirTouch Required Consents and
Vodafone Required Consents from or with any Governmental Entity
(collectively, "GOVERNMENTAL CONSENTS") in connection with the consummation
of the Merger and the other transactions contemplated hereby shall have been
made or obtained, except where the failure to obtain such Governmental
Consent would not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected
to have a Material Adverse Effect on Vodafone or AirTouch after the
Effective Time, it being understood and agreed that, for this purpose,
materiality shall be considered with reference to the total equity market
value of Vodafone and AirTouch and that the failure to obtain the approval
of the FCC and, to the extent such approval is necessary, the California
Public Utilities Commission, of the transaction contemplated by this
Agreement shall in any event be deemed to have a Material Adverse Effect,
notwithstanding such reference to such total equity market value, and such
Governmental Consents shall not contain any terms or impose any condition or
restriction relating or applying to, or requiring changes in or limitations
on, the operation of any asset or businesses of AirTouch, Vodafone or any of
their respective Subsidiaries which term, condition or restriction,
individually
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or in the aggregate, would reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse
Effect on Vodafone or AirTouch after the Effective Time (it being understood
that, for this purpose, materiality shall be considered with reference to
the total equity market value of Vodafone and AirTouch).
4.1.3. LAWS AND ORDERS. No Governmental Entity of competent
jurisdiction shall have enacted, issued, promulgated, enforced or entered
any Law (whether temporary, preliminary or permanent) that is in effect and
restrains, enjoins or otherwise prohibits the consummation of the Merger or
the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement or that would
materially frustrate the express intent and purposes of this Agreement
(collectively, an "ORDER"), and no Governmental Entity shall have instituted
or threatened any proceeding seeking any such Order.
4.1.4. EFFECTIVENESS OF FORM F-4. The Form F-4 shall have become
effective prior to the mailing of the AirTouch Proxy Statement to its
stockholders, no stop order suspending the effectiveness of the Form F-4
shall then be in effect, and no proceedings for that purpose shall then be
threatened by the SEC or shall have been initiated by the SEC and not
concluded or withdrawn; and all state securities or "BLUE SKY" permits or
approvals required to carry out the transactions contemplated hereby shall
have been received.
4.1.5. EXCHANGE LISTING. The Vodafone Ordinary Shares to be issued
pursuant to the Merger shall have been admitted to the Official List of the
LSE and such admission shall have become effective in accordance with the
rules and regulations of the LSE and the Vodafone Depositary Shares shall
have been authorized for listing on the NYSE, subject to official notice of
issuance.
4.1.6. INITIAL MERGER. The Initial Merger shall have been consummated.
4.2. CONDITIONS TO OBLIGATIONS OF VODAFONE AND MERGER SUB. The obligations
of Vodafone and Merger Sub to effect the Merger are also subject to the
satisfaction or waiver by Vodafone and Merger Sub prior to the Effective Time of
the following conditions:
4.2.1. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES OF AIRTOUCH. The representations
and warranties of AirTouch set forth in this Agreement (i) to the extent
qualified by Material Adverse Effect shall be true and correct and (ii) to
the extent not qualified by Material Adverse Effect shall be true and
correct in each case, when made and as of the Closing Date (except that any
representation and warranty that by its terms expressly speaks as of a
specific date shall be true and correct as of such date) (PROVIDED that this
clause (ii) shall be deemed satisfied so long as any failures of such
representations and warranties to be true and correct would not,
individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material
Adverse Effect on AirTouch), and Vodafone shall have received a certificate
signed on behalf of AirTouch by an executive officer of AirTouch to such
effect.
4.2.2. PERFORMANCE OF OBLIGATIONS OF AIRTOUCH. AirTouch shall have
performed all material obligations required to be performed by it under this
Agreement at or prior to the Closing Date, and Vodafone shall have received
a certificate signed on behalf of AirTouch by an executive officer of
AirTouch to such effect.
4.2.3. CONSENTS UNDER AGREEMENTS. Consent or approval shall have been
obtained from each Person whose consent or approval shall be required in
order to consummate the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by
this Agreement under any Contract to which Vodafone or AirTouch or any of
their respective Subsidiaries is a party, except those for which the failure
to obtain such consent or approval, individually or in the aggregate, would
not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on Vodafone or
AirTouch, as the case may be, and would not reasonably be likely to prevent
or materially impair the ability of Vodafone or AirTouch to consummate the
Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
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4.2.4. TAX OPINION. Vodafone shall have received an opinion from
Sullivan & Cromwell, dated as of the Effective Time, substantially to the
effect that, on the basis of the facts, representations and assumptions set
forth in such opinion, (i) the Merger will be treated for U.S. federal
income tax purposes as a reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a)
of the U.S. Code and (ii) Vodafone shall be treated as a corporation under
Section 367(a)(1) of the U.S. Code with respect to each transfer of property
thereto pursuant to the Merger. In rendering such opinion, counsel may
require and rely upon representations of Vodafone and AirTouch, including
representations and covenants substantially in the form of those contained
in the Vodafone officer's certificates and the AirTouch officer's
certificates attached hereto as Exhibits 3.1.5.1 and Exhibits 3.1.5.2, and,
in addition, may rely upon an opinion of a nationally recognized investment
bank setting forth the fair market value as of the Effective Time of the
aggregate outstanding shares of each of the Class C Preferred Shares, Class
D Preferred Shares and Class E Preferred Shares and the aggregate fair
market value immediately after the Effective Time of the Vodafone Ordinary
Shares (represented by Vodafone Depositary Shares) issued to stockholders of
AirTouch in the Merger as compared to the aggregate fair market value
immediately after the Effective Time of all outstanding Vodafone Ordinary
Shares. The opinion referred to in this Section 4.2.4. shall be based upon
the Private Letter Ruling, if obtained. The opinion set forth in clause (ii)
above shall not address the tax consequences applicable to any stockholder
of AirTouch who, immediately after the Merger will be a "FIVE PERCENT
TRANSFEREE SHAREHOLDER" with respect to Vodafone within the meaning of
United States Treasury Regulation Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(5).
4.3. CONDITIONS TO OBLIGATION OF AIRTOUCH. The obligation of AirTouch to
effect the Merger is also subject to the satisfaction or waiver by AirTouch
prior to the Effective Time of the following conditions:
4.3.1. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES. The representations and
warranties of Vodafone set forth in this Agreement (i) to the extent
qualified by Material Adverse Effect shall be true and correct, and (ii) to
the extent not qualified by Material Adverse Effect shall be true and
correct, in each case, when made and as of the Closing Date (except that any
representation and warranty that by its terms expressly speaks as of a
specific date shall be true and correct as of such date) (PROVIDED that this
clause (ii) shall be deemed satisfied so long as any failures of such
representations and warranties to be true and correct, taken together, would
not, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a
Material Adverse Effect on Vodafone), and AirTouch shall have received a
certificate signed on behalf of Vodafone by an executive officer of Vodafone
to such effect.
4.3.2. PERFORMANCE OF OBLIGATIONS OF VODAFONE. Vodafone shall have
performed all material obligations required to be performed by it under this
Agreement at or prior to the Closing Date and AirTouch shall have received a
certificate signed on behalf of Vodafone by an executive officer of Vodafone
to such effect.
4.3.3. CONSENTS UNDER AGREEMENTS. Consent or approval shall have been
obtained from each Person whose consent or approval shall be required in
order to consummate the Merger and the other transactions contemplated by
this Agreement under any Contract to which Vodafone or AirTouch or any of
their respective Subsidiaries is a party, except those for which the failure
to obtain such consent or approval, individually or in the aggregate, would
not reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect on Vodafone or
AirTouch, as the case may be, and would not reasonably be likely to prevent
or materially impair the ability of Vodafone or AirTouch to consummate the
Merger and the other transactions contemplated by this Agreement.
4.3.4. TAX OPINION. AirTouch shall have received an opinion from
Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson, dated as of the Effective Time,
substantially to the effect that, on the basis of the facts, representations
and assumptions set forth in such opinion, (i) the Merger will be treated
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for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a reorganization within the meaning
of Section 368(a) of the U.S. Code and (ii) Vodafone shall be treated as a
corporation under Section 367(a)(1) of the U.S. Code with respect to each
transfer of property thereto pursuant to the Merger. In rendering such
opinion, counsel may require and rely upon representations of Vodafone and
AirTouch, including representations and covenants substantially in the form
of those contained in the Vodafone officer's certificates and the AirTouch
officer's certificates attached hereto as Exhibits 3.1.5.1 and Exhibits
3.1.5.2, and, in addition, may rely upon an opinion of a nationally
recognized investment bank setting forth the fair market value as of the
Effective Time of the aggregate outstanding shares of each of the Class C
Preferred Shares, Class D Preferred Shares and Class E Preferred Shares and
the aggregate fair market value immediately after the Effective Time of the
Vodafone Ordinary Shares (represented by Vodafone Depositary Shares) issued
to stockholders of AirTouch in the Merger as compared to the aggregate fair
market value immediately after the Effective Time of all outstanding
Vodafone Ordinary Shares. The opinion referred to in this Section 4.3.4.
shall be based upon the Private Letter Ruling, if obtained. The opinion set
forth in clause (ii) above shall not address the tax consequences applicable
to any stockholder of AirTouch who, immediately after the Merger, will be a
"five-percent transferee shareholder" with respect to Vodafone within the
meaning of United States Treasury Regulation Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(5).
4.3.5. SUPPLEMENTAL RESOLUTIONS. The Vodafone Supplemental Resolutions
(including the election of those New Directors designated by AirTouch, but
excluding the resolutions relating to the Redenomination) shall have been
approved by the shareholders of Vodafone constituting the Vodafone
Supplemental Vote.
ARTICLE V
TERMINATION
5.1. TERMINATION BY MUTUAL CONSENT. This Agreement may be terminated and
the Merger may be abandoned at any time prior to the Effective Time, whether
before or after the approvals by the shareholders of AirTouch and Vodafone
referred to in paragraph 4.1.1 (Shareholder Approvals), by mutual written
consent of AirTouch and Vodafone, by action of their respective boards of
directors.
5.2. TERMINATION BY EITHER VODAFONE OR AIRTOUCH. This Agreement may be
terminated and the Merger may be abandoned at any time prior to the Effective
Time by action of the board of directors of either Vodafone or AirTouch if (i)
the Merger shall not have been consummated by December 31, 1999, whether such
date is before or after the date of the approvals by the shareholders of
AirTouch or Vodafone (the "TERMINATION DATE"), PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that if on
such date the Conditions to the Closing set forth in Section 4.1.2. shall not
have been fulfilled, but all other conditions to the Closing shall have been
fulfilled or shall be capable of being fulfilled, at the election of the board
of directors of either AirTouch or Vodafone, the Termination Date shall be
extended to March 31, 2000; (ii) any Order permanently restraining, enjoining or
otherwise prohibiting the consummation of the Merger shall have become final and
non-appealable, whether before or after the approvals by the shareholders of
AirTouch or Vodafone; (iii) the AirTouch Requisite Vote shall not have been
obtained at the duly held AirTouch Shareholders Meeting, including any
adjournments or postponements thereof; or (iv) the Vodafone Requisite Vote shall
not have been obtained at the duly held Vodafone Shareholders Meeting, including
any adjournments or postponements thereof; PROVIDED that the right to terminate
this Agreement shall not be available to a Party that has breached in any
material respect its obligations under this Agreement in any manner that shall
have proximately contributed to the failure of the Merger to be consummated.
5.3. TERMINATION BY AIRTOUCH. This Agreement may be terminated and the
Merger may be abandoned at any time prior to the Effective Time, whether before
or after the approval by stockholders of AirTouch referred to in paragraph 4.1.1
(Shareholder Approvals), by action of the
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board of directors of AirTouch, if (i) the board of directors of Vodafone shall
have withdrawn or adversely modified its approval or recommendation to
shareholders of the Merger or failed to reconfirm such recommendation within
seven business days after a written request by AirTouch to do so; (ii) Vodafone
or its board of directors shall recommend an Acquisition Proposal to its
shareholders; (iii) there shall be a breach by Vodafone of any representation,
warranty, covenant or agreement contained in this Agreement which would result
in a failure of a condition set forth in paragraph 4.3.1 or 4.3.2 and cannot be
or is not cured prior to the Termination Date; or (iv) the board of directors of
Vodafone shall have withheld the Increased Cash Consent.
5.4. TERMINATION BY VODAFONE. This Agreement may be terminated and the
Merger may be abandoned at any time prior to the Effective Time, whether before
or after the approval by the shareholders of Vodafone referred to in paragraph
4.1.1 (Shareholder Approvals), by action of the board of directors of Vodafone,
if (i) the board of directors of AirTouch shall have withdrawn or adversely
modified its approval or recommendation to stockholders of the Merger or failed
to reconfirm such recommendation within seven business days after a written
request by Vodafone to do so; or (ii) AirTouch or its board of directors shall
recommend an Acquisition Proposal to its stockholders; or (iii) there shall be a
breach by AirTouch of any representation, warranty, covenant or agreement
contained in this Agreement which would result in a failure of a condition set
forth in paragraph 4.2.1 or 4.2.2 and cannot be or is not cured prior to the
Termination Date.
5.5. EFFECT OF TERMINATION AND ABANDONMENT.
5.5.1. In the event of termination of this Agreement and the
abandonment of the Merger pursuant to this Article V, this Agreement (other
than as set forth in Section 6.1. (Survival)) shall become void and of no
effect with no liability on the part of either Party (or of any of its
Representatives); PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that no such termination shall relieve
either Party of any liability for damages resulting from any willful and
intentional breach of this Agreement or from any obligation to pay, if
applicable, the amounts payable pursuant to Section 5.5.2. or 5.5.3.
5.5.2. In the event that (i) this Agreement is terminated by either
AirTouch or Vodafone pursuant to Section 5.2.(iii) and at the time of the
AirTouch Shareholders Meeting (or at any adjournment thereof) an Acquisition
Proposal exists with respect to AirTouch or (ii) this Agreement is
terminated by Vodafone pursuant to Section 5.4.(i), 5.4.(ii) or 5.4.(iii)
(solely with respect to a willful and intentional breach of a
representation, warranty, covenant or agreement of AirTouch contained in
this Agreement), then AirTouch shall promptly, but in no event later than
two business days after the date of such termination, pay to Vodafone a
termination payment equal to the AirTouch Termination Amount (as defined
below), which amount shall be exclusive of any expenses to be paid pursuant
to Section 3.9. (Expenses), payable by wire transfer of same day funds. The
term "AirTouch Termination Amount" shall mean, in the case of termination by
Vodafone pursuant to clause (ii) of the preceding sentence, $1,000,000,000
(inclusive of value added tax, if any) or, in the case of termination by
AirTouch or Vodafone pursuant to clause (i) of the preceding sentence,
"AIRTOUCH TERMINATION AMOUNT" shall mean $225,000,000 (inclusive of value
added tax, if any), plus, if (x) AirTouch executes and delivers an agreement
with respect to any Acquisition Proposal (an "AIRTOUCH ALTERNATIVE
AGREEMENT") or (y) an Acquisition Proposal with respect to AirTouch is
consummated, in any such case, within 12 months from the date of
termination, an additional $775,000,000 (inclusive of value added tax, if
any) (which additional amount shall be paid promptly but in no event later
than two business days after the earliest date on which the event requiring
AirTouch to pay such additional sum occurs). In the event that the board of
directors of AirTouch recommends the acceptance by AirTouch stockholders of
a third-party tender or exchange offer for the AirTouch Common Shares, such
recommendation shall be treated for purposes of this paragraph as though an
AirTouch Alternative Agreement had been executed. AirTouch acknowledges that
the agreements contained in this Section 5.5.2. are an integral part of the
transactions contemplated by this Agreement, and that, without these
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agreements, Vodafone would not enter into this Agreement; accordingly, if
AirTouch fails promptly to pay any amount due pursuant to this Section
5.5.2., and, in order to obtain such payment, Vodafone commences a suit
which results in a judgment against AirTouch for the payment set forth in
this Section 5.5.2., AirTouch shall pay to Vodafone its costs and expenses
(including attorneys' fees) in connection with such suit, together with
interest on the amount due from each date for payment until the date of such
payment at the prime rate of Citibank N.A. in effect on the date such
payment was required to be made plus 2 percent.
5.5.3. In the event that (i) this Agreement is terminated by either
AirTouch or Vodafone pursuant to Section 5.2.(iv), or (ii) this Agreement is
terminated by AirTouch pursuant to Section 5.3.(i), 5.3.(ii) or 5.3.(iii)
(solely with respect to a willful and intentional breach of a
representation, warranty, covenant or agreement of Vodafone contained in
this Agreement), then Vodafone shall promptly, but in no event later than
two business days after the date of such termination, pay to AirTouch a
termination payment equal to the Vodafone Termination Amount (as defined
below), which amount shall be exclusive of any expenses to be paid pursuant
to Section 3.9. (Expenses), payable by wire transfer of same day funds. The
term "Vodafone Termination Amount" shall mean $225,000,000 (inclusive of
value added tax, if any). Vodafone acknowledges that the agreements
contained in this Section 5.5.3. are an integral part of the transactions
contemplated by this Agreement, and that, without these agreements, AirTouch
would not enter into this Agreement; accordingly, if Vodafone fails promptly
to pay any amount due pursuant to this Section 5.5.3., and, in order to
obtain such payment, AirTouch commences a suit which results in a judgment
against Vodafone for the payment set forth in this Section 5.5.3., Vodafone
shall pay to AirTouch its costs and expenses (including attorneys' fees) in
connection with such suit, together with interest on the amount due from
each date for payment until the date of such payment at the prime rate of
Citibank N.A. in effect on the date such payment was required to be made
plus 2 percent.
ARTICLE VI
MISCELLANEOUS AND GENERAL
6.1. SURVIVAL. This Article VI and the agreements of AirTouch and Vodafone
contained in Article I, Sections 3.8. (Benefits and Other Matters),
3.14.(Accounting Matters), 3.16.(Vodafone SEC Filings) and Section 3.19.
(Assumption of U.S. West Investment Agreement) shall survive the Effective Time.
This Article VI (other than Section 6.2. (Modification or Amendment) and Section
6.3. (Waiver)), the representations and warranties contained in Section 2.1.3.
(Corporate Authority; Approval and Fairness), the agreements of AirTouch and
Vodafone contained in Section 3.9. (Expenses), Section 5.5. (Effect of
Termination and Abandonment), and the last sentence of Section 3.6. (Access)
shall survive the termination of this Agreement. Nothing contained herein shall
limit any covenant or agreement of the Parties which by its terms contemplates
performance after the Effective Time. All other representations, warranties,
agreements and covenants in this Agreement shall not survive the Effective Time
or the termination of this Agreement.
6.2. MODIFICATION OR AMENDMENT. This Agreement may be modified or amended
by agreement of the Parties, by action taken or authorized by their respective
boards of directors, at any time prior to the Effective Time; PROVIDED, HOWEVER,
that, after approval by shareholders of the matters presented at the AirTouch
Shareholders Meeting or the Vodafone Shareholders Meeting, no modification or
amendment shall be made which under applicable Law requires further approval by
such shareholders without such further approval. This Agreement may not be
modified or amended except by an instrument in writing executed and delivered by
duly authorized officers of each of the Parties.
6.3. WAIVER. Any provision of this Agreement may be waived prior to the
Effective Time if, and only if, such waiver is in writing and signed by the
Party against whom the waiver is to be effective.
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<PAGE>
6.4. FAILURE OR INDULGENCE NOT WAIVER; REMEDIES CUMULATIVE. No failure or
delay by any Party in exercising any right, power or privilege hereunder shall
operate as a waiver thereof, nor shall any single or partial exercise thereof
preclude any other or further exercise thereof or the exercise of any other
right, power or privilege. Except as otherwise herein provided, the rights and
remedies herein provided shall be cumulative and not exclusive of any rights or
remedies provided by Law.
6.5. COUNTERPARTS. This Agreement may be executed in any number of
counterparts, each such counterpart being deemed to be an original instrument,
and all such counterparts shall together constitute the same agreement.
6.6. GOVERNING LAW AND VENUE; WAIVER OF JURY TRIAL.
6.6.1. THIS AGREEMENT SHALL BE DEEMED TO BE MADE IN NEW YORK, AND IN
ALL RESPECTS SHALL BE INTERPRETED, CONSTRUED AND GOVERNED BY AND IN
ACCORDANCE WITH THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK APPLICABLE TO CONTRACTS TO
BE PERFORMED WHOLLY IN SUCH STATE, EXCEPT TO THE EXTENT THAT IN THE CASE OF
AIRTOUCH OR MERGER SUB, THE DELAWARE GENERAL CORPORATION LAW AND, IN THE
CASE OF VODAFONE, THE COMPANIES ACT AND ENGLISH LAW ARE APPLICABLE. The
Parties hereby irrevocably submit to the jurisdiction of the federal courts
of the United States of America located in the Borough of Manhattan, New
York State solely in respect of the interpretation and enforcement of the
provisions of this Agreement and in respect of the transactions contemplated
hereby waive, and agree not to assert, as a defense in any action, suit or
proceeding for the interpretation or enforcement hereof, that it is not
subject thereto or that such action, suit or proceeding may not be brought
or is not maintainable in said courts or that the venue thereof may not be
appropriate or that this Agreement may not be enforced in or by such courts,
and the Parties irrevocably agree that all claims with respect to such
action or proceeding shall be heard and determined in such a federal court.
The Parties hereby consent to and grant any such court jurisdiction over the
person of such Parties and over the subject matter of such dispute and agree
that mailing of process or other papers in connection with any such action
or proceeding in the manner provided in Section 6.7. (Notices), or in such
other manner as may be permitted by Law, shall be valid and sufficient
service thereof.
6.6.2. EACH PARTY ACKNOWLEDGES AND AGREES THAT ANY CONTROVERSY WHICH
MAY ARISE UNDER THIS AGREEMENT IS LIKELY TO INVOLVE COMPLICATED AND
DIFFICULT ISSUES, AND THEREFORE EACH SUCH PARTY HEREBY IRREVOCABLY AND
UNCONDITIONALLY WAIVES ANY RIGHT SUCH PARTY MAY HAVE TO A TRIAL BY JURY IN
RESPECT OF ANY LITIGATION DIRECTLY OR INDIRECTLY ARISING OUT OF OR RELATING
TO THIS AGREEMENT, OR THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED BY THIS AGREEMENT. EACH
PARTY CERTIFIES AND ACKNOWLEDGES THAT (i) NO REPRESENTATIVE, AGENT OR
ATTORNEY OF ANY OTHER PARTY HAS REPRESENTED, EXPRESSLY OR OTHERWISE, THAT
SUCH OTHER PARTY WOULD NOT, IN THE EVENT OF LITIGATION, SEEK TO ENFORCE THE
FOREGOING WAIVER, (ii) EACH SUCH PARTY UNDERSTANDS AND WITH THE ADVICE OF
COUNSEL HAS CONSIDERED THE IMPLICATIONS OF THIS WAIVER, (iii) EACH SUCH
PARTY MAKES THIS WAIVER VOLUNTARILY, AND (iv) EACH SUCH PARTY HAS BEEN
INDUCED TO ENTER INTO THIS AGREEMENT BY, AMONG OTHER THINGS, THE MUTUAL
WAIVERS AND CERTIFICATIONS IN THIS SECTION 6.6.
6.7. NOTICES. Notices, requests, instructions or other documents to be
given under this Agreement shall be in writing and shall be deemed given, (i)
when sent if sent by facsimile, PROVIDED that the facsimile is promptly
confirmed by telephone confirmation thereof, (ii) when delivered, if delivered
personally to the intended recipient, and (iii) one business day later, if sent
by overnight
A-38
<PAGE>
delivery via a national courier service, and in each case, addressed to a Party
at the following address for such Party:
IF TO AIRTOUCH:
AirTouch Communications, Inc.
One California Street, 30th Floor
San Francisco, California 94111
Attention: Margaret G. Gill
Facsimile: (415) 658-2551
with copies to:
Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson
One New York Plaza
New York, New York 10004
Attention: Charles M. Nathan
Facsimile: (212) 859-4000
and
Pillsbury Madison & Sutro LLP
235 Montgomery Street
San Francisco, California 94104
Attention: Nathaniel M. Cartmell III
Facsimile: (415) 983-1200
and
Freshfields
65 Fleet Street
London EC4Y 1HS
Attention: William P.L. Lawes
Facsimile: (44) 171-832-7001
IF TO VODAFONE OR MERGER SUB:
Vodafone Group Public Limited Company
The Company Secretary's and Legal Department
The Courtyard
2-4 London Road
Newbury
Berkshire RG14 1JX
Attention: Stephen R. Scott
Facsimile: (01635) 580-857
with copies to
Sullivan & Cromwell
125 Broad Street
New York, New York 10004
Attention: Benjamin F. Stapleton, Esq.
Facsimile: (212) 558-3588
A-39
<PAGE>
and
Linklaters & Paines
One Silk Street
London EC2Y 8HQ
Attention: David W. Cheyne, Esq.
Facsimile: (44) 171-456-2222
or to such other Persons or addresses as may be designated in writing by the
Party to receive such notice as provided above.
6.8. ENTIRE AGREEMENT. This Agreement (including any exhibits hereto), the
AirTouch Disclosure Letter, the Vodafone Disclosure Letter and the
Confidentiality Agreement constitute the entire agreement, and supersede all
other prior agreements, understandings, representations and warranties both
written and oral, between the Parties with respect to the subject matter hereof.
References herein to this Agreement shall for all purposes be deemed to include
references to the AirTouch Disclosure Letter and the Vodafone Disclosure Letter.
Except as set forth in Section 3.8.2. (Director and Officer Indemnification and
Insurance), this Agreement is not intended to confer upon any Person other than
the Parties any rights or remedies hereunder. EACH PARTY HERETO AGREES THAT,
EXCEPT FOR THE REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES CONTAINED IN THIS AGREEMENT, OR
ANY OTHER AGREEMENT CONTEMPLATED HEREBY, NONE OF AIRTOUCH, VODAFONE OR MERGER
SUB MAKES ANY OTHER REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES, AND EACH HEREBY DISCLAIMS ANY
OTHER REPRESENTATIONS OR WARRANTIES MADE BY ITSELF OR ANY OF ITS OFFICERS,
DIRECTORS, EMPLOYEES, AGENTS, FINANCIAL OR LEGAL ADVISORS OR OTHER
REPRESENTATIVES WITH RESPECT TO THE EXECUTION AND DELIVERY OF THIS AGREEMENT, OR
THE TRANSACTIONS CONTEMPLATED HEREBY, NOTWITHSTANDING THE DELIVERY OR DISCLOSURE
TO THE OTHER OR THE OTHER'S REPRESENTATIVES OF ANY DOCUMENTATION OR OTHER
INFORMATION WITH RESPECT TO ANY ONE OR MORE OF THE FOREGOING.
6.9. OBLIGATIONS OF VODAFONE AND OF AIRTOUCH. Whenever this Agreement
requires a Subsidiary of Vodafone to take any action, such requirement shall be
deemed to include an undertaking on the part of Vodafone to use best reasonable
efforts to cause such Subsidiary to take such action. Whenever this Agreement
requires a Subsidiary of AirTouch to take any action, such requirement shall be
deemed to include an undertaking on the part of AirTouch to use best reasonable
efforts to cause such Subsidiary to take such action.
6.10. SEVERABILITY. The provisions of this Agreement shall be deemed
severable and the invalidity or unenforceability of any provision shall not
affect the validity or enforceability of the other provisions hereof. If any
provision of this Agreement, or the application thereof to any Person or any
circumstance, is invalid or unenforceable, (a) a suitable and equitable
provision shall be substituted therefor in order to carry out, so far as may be
valid and enforceable, the intent and purpose of such invalid or unenforceable
provision unless the substitution of such provision would materially frustrate
the express intent and purposes of this Agreement, and (b) the remainder of this
Agreement and the application of such provision to other Persons or
circumstances shall not be affected by such invalidity or unenforceability, nor
shall such invalidity or unenforceability affect the validity or enforceability
of such provision, or the application thereof, in any other jurisdiction.
6.11. INTERPRETATION. The headings herein are for convenience of reference
only, do not constitute part of this Agreement and shall not be deemed to limit
or otherwise affect any of the provisions hereof. Where a reference in this
Agreement is made to a Section or Exhibit, such reference shall be to a Section
of or Exhibit to this Agreement unless otherwise indicated. Whenever the words
"include," "includes" or "including" are used in this Agreement, they shall be
deemed to be followed by the words "without limitation."
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<PAGE>
6.12. ASSIGNMENT. This Agreement shall not be assignable by operation of
law or otherwise, and any purported assignment in violation of this provision
shall be void.
6.13. SPECIFIC PERFORMANCE. Each Party hereto acknowledges and agrees that
the other Party hereto could be irreparably damaged in the event that the
covenants contained in Section 3.1.4. of this Agreement are not performed in
accordance with their specific terms or are otherwise breached in each case on
or prior to the Effective Time. Accordingly, each Party agrees that the other
Party will be entitled to an injunction or injunctions to enforce specifically
such covenants in any action in any court having personal and subject matter
jurisdiction, in addition to any other remedy to which such Party may be
entitled at law or in equity.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, this Agreement has been duly executed and delivered by
the duly authorized officers of Vodafone, AirTouch and Merger Sub as of the date
hereof.
VODAFONE GROUP PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY
By: /s/ CHRIS GENT
---------------------------------------------
Name: Chris Gent
Title: Chief Executive Officer
By: /s/ KENNETH JOHN HYDON
---------------------------------------------
Name: Kenneth John Hydon
Title: Financial Director
AIRTOUCH COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
By: /s/ SAM GINN
---------------------------------------------
Name: Sam Ginn
Title: Chief Executive Officer
APOLLO MERGER SUB, INC.
By: /s/ KENNETH JOHN HYDON
---------------------------------------------
Name: Kenneth John Hydon
Title: Director and Secretary
A-41
<PAGE>
APPENDIX B
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER
1585 BROADWAY
NEW YORK, NEW YORK 10036
(212) 761-4000
January 15, 1999
Board of Directors
AirTouch Communications, Inc.
One California Street, 30th Floor
San Francisco, CA 94111
Members of the Board:
We understand that AirTouch Communications, Inc. (the "Company"), Vodafone
Group Public Limited Company ("Vodafone") and Apollo Merger Sub, Inc., a wholly
owned subsidiary of Vodafone ("Vodafone Acquisition Sub") have entered into an
Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of January 15, 1999 (the "Vodafone Merger
Agreement"), which provides, among other things, for the merger (the "Company
Merger") of Vodafone Acquisition Sub with and into the Company. Pursuant to the
Company Merger, the Company will become a wholly owned subsidiary of Vodafone
and each issued and outstanding share of common stock, par value $.01 per share,
of the Company (the "Company Common Stock"), other than shares owned by
Vodafone, the Company or any Subsidiary (as defined in the Vodafone Merger
Agreement) of Vodafone or the Company, will, subject to adjustment as provided
below, be converted into the right to receive (x) five (5) ordinary shares
(subject to adjustment as described below, the "Exchange Ratio"), of nominal
value 5p each, of Vodafone or, if the Redenomination (as defined in the Vodafone
Merger Agreement) is approved and becomes effective, of nominal value $.10 each
(the "Vodafone Stock") and (y) $9.00 in cash, without interest (subject to
adjustment as described below, the "Cash Consideration", together with the
Vodafone Stock to be received in the Company Merger, the "Merger
Consideration"). Notwithstanding the foregoing, pursuant to the Vodafone Merger
Agreement, in the event the 50% Test (as defined in the Vodafone Merger
Agreement) is not satisfied (A) but the Private Letter Ruling (as defined in the
Vodafone Merger Agreement) has been obtained, the Exchange Ratio shall be
reduced by the smallest fraction that legal counsel to the Company and Vodafone
agree is necessary to satisfy the 50% Test, and the Cash Consideration shall be
increased in accordance with Section 1.3.2(y)(ii) of the Vodafone Merger
Agreement or (B) and the Private Letter Ruling has not been obtained, the
Exchange Ratio shall be reduced by the smallest fraction that legal counsel to
the Company and Vodafone agree is necessary to satisfy the test set forth in
U.S. Treasury Regulation Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(3)(iii) without obtaining the
Private Letter Ruling, the Cash Consideration shall be reduced to $0, and the
Company shall, in lieu of the Cash Consideration, pay to each holder of Company
Common Stock being exchanged in the Company Merger the AirTouch Cash Payment (as
defined in the Vodafone Merger Agreement).
You have asked for our opinion as to whether, as of the date hereof, the
Merger Consideration, together with the AirTouch Cash Payment, if any, is fair
from a financial point of view to holders of shares of Company Common Stock
(other than Vodafone, the Company and their respective Subsidiaries).
For purposes of the opinion set forth herein, we have:
(i) reviewed certain publicly available financial statements and other
information of the Company and Vodafone;
B-1
<PAGE>
(ii) reviewed and discussed certain internal financial statements and other
financial and operating data concerning the Company and Vodafone
prepared by the respective managements of such companies;
(iii) analyzed financial projections for the Company and Vodafone contained
in certain securities analysts' research reports that were recommended
for review by the respective managements of such companies;
(iv) discussed the past and current operations and financial conditions and
the prospects of the Company and Vodafone, including information
relating to certain strategic, financial and operational benefits
anticipated from the Company Merger, with the respective managements
of such companies;
(v) analyzed the estimated pro forma impact of the Company Merger on
Vodafone's earnings per share, cash flow, consolidated capitalization
and financial ratios;
(vi) reviewed the reported prices and trading activity for the Company
Common Stock and the Vodafone Stock and Vodafone ADRs (as defined in
the Vodafone Merger Agreement);
(vii) reviewed and discussed with senior executives of each of the Company
and Vodafone the strategic rationale for, and certain regulatory
issues associated with, the Company Merger;
(viii) compared the financial performance of the Company and Vodafone and the
prices and trading activity of the Company Common Stock and the
Vodafone Stock and Vodafone ADRs with that of certain other comparable
publicly traded companies and their securities;
(ix) reviewed the financial terms, to the extent publicly available, of
certain comparable transactions;
(x) participated in discussions and negotiations among representatives of
the Company and Vodafone and their respective financial, accounting and
legal advisors;
(xi) reviewed the Vodafone Merger Agreement and certain related documents;
and
(xii) performed such other analyses and considered such other factors as we
have deemed appropriate.
We have assumed and relied upon without independent verification the
accuracy and completeness of the information reviewed by us for the purposes of
this opinion. With respect to the internal financial statements and other
financial and operating data and discussions relating to the strategic,
financial and operational benefits anticipated from the Company Merger, we have
assumed that such financial statements and other financial and operating data
have been reasonably prepared on bases reflecting the best currently available
estimates and good faith judgments of the future competitive, operating and
regulatory environments and related financial performance of the Company and
Vodafone. In relying on the financial projections for Vodafone included in the
securities analysts' research reports reviewed by us, we have assumed that the
recommendation of these reports to us by management of Vodafone indicated their
belief that these reports were reasonably prepared on the bases set forth in the
prior sentence. We have relied on the financial projections for AirTouch
included in the securities analysts' research reports reviewed by us based on
our own independent evaluation of these reports and indications by management of
AirTouch that the analyses contained in these reports were reasonably
comprehensive and detailed and were based on assumptions about the trends
influencing AirTouch's financial results that were generally consistent with
those of AirTouch's management. We have not made any independent valuation or
appraisal of the assets or liabilities of the Company or Vodafone, nor have we
been furnished with any such appraisals. Our opinion is necessarily based on
economic, market and other conditions as in effect on, and the information made
available to us as of, the date hereof.
B-2
<PAGE>
We have further assumed, with your consent, that the Company Merger will be
consummated in accordance with the terms set forth in the Vodafone Merger
Agreement (without waiver of any condition contained therein) and the Company
Merger will be treated as a tax-free reorganization and/or exchange, each
pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code of 1986. In addition, we have assumed that
obtaining all necessary regulatory approvals for the Company Merger will not
have an adverse effect on the Company, Vodafone or the contemplated benefits
expected to be derived in the Company Merger.
In arriving at our opinion, we were not authorized to solicit, and did not
solicit, interest from any party with respect to the acquisition of the Company
or any of its assets, although we participated in discussions with Vodafone and
Bell Atlantic Corporation.
We have acted as financial advisor to the Board of Directors of the Company
in connection with this transaction and will receive a fee for our services. In
the past, Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated and its affiliates have provided
financial advisory and financing services for the Company and Bell Atlantic
Corporation and have received fees for the rendering of these services.
It is understood that this letter is for the information of the Board of
Directors of the Company and may not be used for any other purpose without our
prior written consent, except that this opinion may be included in its entirety
in any filing made by the Company in respect of the Company Merger with the
Securities and Exchange Commission. In addition, this opinion does not in any
manner address the prices at which the Vodafone Stock will trade following
announcement or consummation of the Company Merger, and Morgan Stanley expresses
no opinion or recommendation as to how the holders of the Company Common Stock
should vote at the stockholders' meetings held in connection with the Company
Merger.
Based on and subject to the foregoing, we are of the opinion on the date
hereof that the Merger Consideration, together with the AirTouch Cash Payment,
if any, is fair from a financial point of view to the holders of shares of
Company Common Stock (other than Vodafone, the Company and their respective
Subsidiaries).
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
Very truly yours,
MORGAN STANLEY & CO. INCORPORATED
By: /s/ Paul J. Taubman
----------------------------------------
Paul J. Taubman
Managing Director
</TABLE>
B-3
<PAGE>
APPENDIX C
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Goldman Sachs International -- Peterborough Court -- 133 Fleet Street -- London
EC4A 2BB
Tel: 0171-774 1000 -- Telex: 94015777 -- Cable: GOLDSACHS LONDON
Regulated by The Securities and Futures Authority
[LOGO]
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PERSONAL AND CONFIDENTIAL
January 15, 1999
The Board of Directors
Vodafone Group Plc
The Courtyard
2-4 London Road
Newbury
Berkshire RG14 1JX
England
Attn: Chris Gent
Ladies and Gentlemen,
You have requested our opinion as to the fairness from a financial point of view
to Vodafone Group Plc (the "Company") of the Consideration (as defined below) to
be paid by the Company for each outstanding share of common stock, par value
$0.01 per share ("AirTouch Shares"), of AirTouch Communications, Inc.
("AirTouch") pursuant to an Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of January 15,
1999 (the "Merger Agreement") among the Company, AirTouch and Apollo Merger Sub,
Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company. The "Consideration" consists of
(i) five (5) ordinary shares, nominal value 5 pence per share ("Company Shares")
of the Company, and (ii) $9.00 in cash, for each AirTouch Share, subject to
rebalancing in the circumstances described in Section 1.3 of the Merger
Agreement.
Goldman Sachs International, as part of its investment banking business, is
continually engaged in the valuation of businesses and their securities in
connection with mergers and acquisitions, negotiated underwritings, competitive
biddings, secondary distributions of listed and unlisted securities, private
placements and valuations for estate, corporate and other purposes. We are
familiar with the Company, having provided certain investment banking services
to the Company from time to time and having acted as its financial advisor in
connection with, and having participated in certain of the negotiations leading
to, the Merger Agreement. Goldman Sachs International provides a full range of
financial advisory and securities services and in the course of its normal
trading activities may from time to time effect transactions and hold
securities, including derivative securities, of the Company or AirTouch for its
own account and the accounts of customers.
Registered in England No. 2263951 -- Registered Office: Peterborough Court, 133
Fleet Street, London EC4A 2BB
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C-1
<PAGE>
In connection with this opinion, we have reviewed, among other things:
(i) the Merger Agreement,
(ii) certain publicly available information, including the audited financial
statements of the Company for the five years ended March 31, 1998, the
audited financial statements of AirTouch on Form 10-K for the five years
ended December 31, 1997, the unaudited pro forma financial statements of
AirTouch for the year ended December 31, 1997, adjusted to reflect the
acquisition of the U.S. wireless business of U S WEST, the unaudited
interim reports of the Company for the periods ended September 30, 1997
and 1998, the unaudited quarterly reports of AirTouch on Form 10-Q for the
three consecutive quarterly periods ended September 30, 1997 and 1998, and
certain other communications from the Company and AirTouch to their
respective shareholders; and
(iii) certain internal financial analyses and forecasts for the Company and
AirTouch prepared by the management of the Company, including an estimate
of expected cost savings and other synergies.
We have also participated in discussions with members of the senior management
of the Company regarding the strategic rationale for, and the potential benefits
of, the transaction contemplated by the Merger Agreement and the past and
current business operations, financial condition and future prospects of the
Company and AirTouch. In addition, we have (i) reviewed the reported price and
trading activity for Company Shares and AirTouch Shares, (ii) compared certain
financial and stock market information for the Company and AirTouch with similar
information for certain other companies, the securities of which are publicly
traded, (iii) reviewed the financial terms of certain business combinations in
the telecommunications industry specifically and in other industries generally
and (iv) performed such other studies and analyses as we considered appropriate.
We have relied upon the accuracy and completeness of all of the financial and
other information reviewed by us and have assumed such accuracy and completeness
for purposes of rendering this opinion. We have assumed that the financial
analyses and forecasts provided to us by the Company were reasonably prepared
based on assumptions reflecting the best currently available estimates and
judgments by the management of the Company as to the expected future results of
operations and financial condition of the Company and AirTouch. In addition, we
have not made an independent evaluation or appraisal of the assets and
liabilities of the Company or AirTouch or any of their respective subsidiaries,
and we have not been furnished with any such valuation or appraisal.
Our advisory services and the opinion expressed herein are provided for the
information and assistance of the Board of Directors of the Company in
connection with its consideration of the transaction contemplated by the Merger
Agreement, and such opinion does not constitute a recommendation as to how any
holder of Company Shares should vote with respect to such transaction.
Based upon and subject to the foregoing and based upon such other matters as we
consider relevant, it is our opinion that, as of the date hereof, the
Consideration to be paid by the Company for each AirTouch Share pursuant to the
Merger Agreement is fair from a financial point of view to the Company.
Very truly yours,
GOLDMAN SACHS INTERNATIONAL
/s/ Richard A. Sapp
- ---------------------
Managing Director
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<PAGE>
APPENDIX D
AMENDED AND RESTATED
AGREEMENT AND PLAN
OF MERGER
WITNESSETH:
THIS AMENDED AND RESTATED AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF MERGER, dated as of April
16, 1999 (this "Agreement"), between AIRTOUCH COMMUNICATIONS, INC., a Delaware
corporation (the "Company"), and AIRTOUCH MERGER SUB, INC., a Delaware
corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of AirTouch ("Merger Sub").
WHEREAS, the Company is a corporation duly organized and existing under the
laws of the State of Delaware; and
WHEREAS, Merger Sub is a corporation duly organized and existing under the
laws of the State of Delaware; and
WHEREAS, the Board of Directors of each of the Company and Merger Sub deems
it desirable, upon the terms and subject to the conditions herein stated, that
Merger Sub be merged with and into the Company, and that the Company be the
surviving corporation (the "Merger"); and
WHEREAS, the Company and Merger Sub previously entered into an Agreement and
Plan of Merger dated January 15, 1999, which they now desire to amend and
restate in its entirety as follows:
NOW, THEREFORE, it is agreed as follows:
SECTION 1
CONVERSION OF STOCK
1.1 At the Effective Time (as hereinafter defined), Merger Sub shall be
merged with and into the Company, with the Company as the sole surviving
corporation (the "Surviving Corporation").
1.2 At the Effective Time:
(a) Each then-outstanding share of capital stock of the Company shall,
by virtue of the Merger and without any action on the part of the holder
thereof, continue to remain outstanding as one share of capital stock of the
Surviving Corporation.
(b) Each then-outstanding share of capital stock of Merger Sub shall,
by virtue of the Merger and without any action on the part of the holder
thereof, be canceled and no consideration shall be issued in respect
thereof.
SECTION 2
EFFECTIVE TIME
2.1 If this Agreement is duly adopted by the Board of Directors and
stockholders of each of the Company and Merger Sub and is not terminated in
accordance with Section 5 hereof, a certificate of merger reflecting this
Agreement may be filed with the Secretary of State of the State of Delaware to
effectuate the Merger.
2.2 The Merger may become effective at the time of the filing of said
certificate of merger (or at such later time as specified therein) with the
Secretary of State of the State of Delaware (the "Effective Time").
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<PAGE>
SECTION 3
CERTIFICATE OF INCORPORATION AND BY-LAWS
3.1 At the Effective Time, the Certificate of Incorporation of the Company,
as amended through the Effective Time, shall be the Certificate of Incorporation
of the Surviving Corporation with such amendments as are set forth in Exhibit A
hereto and incorporated herein by reference.
3.2 At the Effective Time, the By-laws of the Company, as amended through
the Effective Time, shall be the By-laws of the Surviving Corporation until
further amended in accordance with the provisions thereof and of applicable law.
SECTION 4
DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS
4.1 The directors and officers of the Company immediately prior to the
Effective Time of the Merger shall be the directors and officers, respectively,
of the Surviving Corporation.
SECTION 5
AMENDMENT AND TERMINATION
5.1 At any time prior to the Effective Time, this Agreement and Plan of
Merger may be amended, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, by an
agreement in writing duly approved by the Board of Directors of each of the
Company and Merger Sub.
5.2 At any time prior to the Effective Time, notwithstanding approval of
this Agreement by the stockholders of the Company and/or Merger Sub, this
Agreement may be terminated and abandoned by the Board of Directors of the
Company.
SECTION 6
GOVERNING LAW
6.1 This Agreement shall be governed and construed in accordance with the
laws of the State of Delaware.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Company and Merger Sub have caused this Agreement to
be executed by its duly authorized officers, as of the 16th day of April, 1999.
AIRTOUCH COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
By: /s/ MOHAN S. GYANI
---------------------------------------------
Name: Mohan S. Gyani
Title: Executive Vice President and
Chief Financial Officer
AIRTOUCH MERGER SUB, INC.
By: /s/ MOHAN S. GYANI
---------------------------------------------
Name: Mohan S. Gyani
Title: Executive Vice President
D-2
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT A
1. Paragraph (a) of Section 7 of Schedule A to the Certificate of
Designation, Preferences and Rights of 4.25% Class C Convertible Preferred
Stock, Series 1996, par value $0.01 per share (the "Class C Certificate of
Designation"), shall be amended in its entirety to read as follows:
"(a) In addition to the voting rights set forth in Sections 7(b) and (c),
the holders of Class C Preferred Shares shall have the right with the holders of
Common Stock (and with the holders of any other class or series of capital stock
of the Corporation entitled to vote with the Common Stock (the "Voting Stock"))
to vote in the election of directors and upon each other matter coming before
any meeting of the stockholders on which the holders of Common Stock and Voting
Stock are entitled to vote, and each Class C Preferred Share shall be entitled
to such number of votes as is equal to the number of shares of Common Stock into
which such Class C Preferred Share is then convertible. The holders of the Class
C Preferred Shares, Voting Stock and Common Stock shall vote together as one
class except as otherwise set forth herein or as otherwise provided by law or
elsewhere in the Certificate of Incorporation."
2. Clause (iii) of the first paragraph of Section 4(e) of Schedule A to the
Class C Certificate of Designation shall be amended in its entirety to read as
follows:
"(iii) redemption on any redemption date in exchange for the Merger
Consideration receivable upon consummation of such transaction by a holder of
the number of shares of Common Stock that would have been issuable upon a
redemption of such shares immediately prior to the consummation of such
transaction."
3. The first paragraph of Section 4(e) of Schedule A to the Class C
Certificate of Designation shall be amended by adding the following sentence to
the very end thereof:
"From and after the consummation of any Reorganization Event, all other
adjustments or determinations to be made under this Section 4 for purposes of
determining redemption and conversion rights pursuant to this Section 4 by
reference to the Common Stock (or the Fair Market Value or Volume-Weighted
Average Trading Price thereof) shall be made by reference to the Merger
Consideration (or the Fair Market Value or Volume-Weighted Average Trading Price
thereof), with such adjustments as may be appropriate to reflect the extent to
which the Merger Consideration consists of cash or assets other than marketable
securities."
4. Paragraph (a) of Section 9 of Schedule A to the Certificate of
Designation, Preferences and Rights of 5.143% Class D Cumulative Preferred
Stock, Series 1998, par value $0.01 per share, (the "Class D Certificate of
Designation") shall be amended in its entirety to read as follows:
"(a) In addition to the voting rights set forth in Section 9(b), (c) and
(d), the holders of Class D Preferred Stock shall have the right with the
holders of Common Stock (and with the holders of any other class or series of
capital stock of the Corporation entitled to vote with the Common Stock (the
"Voting Stock")) to vote in the election of directors and upon each other matter
coming before any meeting of the stockholders on which the holders of Common
Stock and Voting Stock are entitled to vote, on the basis of twelve (12) votes
for each share of Class D Preferred Stock held. The holders of the Class D
Preferred Stock, Voting Stock and Common Stock shall vote together as one class
except as otherwise set forth herein or as otherwise provided by law or
elsewhere in the Certificate of Incorporation."
5. Paragraph (d) of Section 9 of Schedule A to the Class D Certificate of
Designation shall be amended to replace clause (ii) thereof in its entirety and
to add a clause (iii) immediately following clause (ii) as follows:
"(ii) for the Corporation to merge with or into or consolidate with any
Person if, as a result of such merger or consolidation, the Class D Preferred
Stock would be converted into, exchanged for or
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continue as shares of capital stock of the surviving or continuing corporation
or parent of the surviving or continuing corporation with powers, preferences or
special rights which materially and adversely differ from the powers,
preferences or special rights of the shares of Class D Preferred Stock or
converted into or exchanged for cash or (iii) amend, alter or repeal any of the
provisions of the Certificate of Incorporation of the Corporation, whether by
merger, consolidation or otherwise, to change the Maturity Date or any Dividend
Payment Date or to decrease the amount of any dividend or redemption payment or
any liquidation preference of the Class D Preferred Stock."
6. Paragraph (b) of Section 4 of Schedule A to the Class D Certificate of
Designation shall be deleted in its entirety.
7. Paragraph (a) of Section 4 of Schedule A to the Class D Certificate of
Designation shall be amended in its entirety to read as follows:
"Mandatory Redemption. On April 6, 2020 (the "Maturity Date"), the Class D
Preferred Stock shall terminate and the holder of each outstanding share of
Class D Preferred Stock shall be entitled to receive an amount in cash equal to
$1,000 per share (the "Liquidation Amount") plus all accrued but unpaid
dividends on such share of Class D Preferred Stock (other than previously
declared dividends payable to a holder of record as of a prior date) to the
Maturity Date, whether or not declared, out of funds legally available for the
payment of dividends. Dividends on the Class D Preferred Stock shall cease to
accrue and such stock shall cease to be outstanding on the Maturity Date.
Amounts payable in cash in respect of the Class D Preferred Stock as of the
Maturity Date shall not bear interest. Each holder of shares of Class D
Preferred Stock shall surrender the certificates evidencing such shares to the
Corporation at the place designated in a notice of redemption provided by the
Corporation to the holders of record of shares of Class D Preferred Stock and
shall there upon be entitled to receive any funds payable pursuant to this
Section 4 following such surrender and following the date of such redemption.
The Corporation's obligation to provide funds upon redemption in accordance with
this Section 4 shall be deemed fulfilled if, on or before a redemption date, the
Corporation shall irrevocably deposit, with a bank or trust company or an
affiliate of a bank or trust company, having an office or agency in New York
City and having a capital and surplus of at least $50,000,000, an amount of
funds required to be delivered by the Corporation pursuant to this Section 4
upon the occurrence of the related redemption. Any interest accrued on such
funds shall be paid to the Corporation from time to time. Any funds so deposited
and unclaimed at the end of two years from such redemption date shall be repaid
and released to the Corporation, after which the holders or holder of such Class
D Preferred Stock so called for redemption shall look only to the Corporation
for delivery of such funds.
8. Paragraph (a) of Section 9 of Schedule A to the Certificate of
Designation, Preferences and Rights of 5.143% Class E Cumulative Preferred
Stock, Series 1998, par value $0.01 per share, (the "Class E Certificate of
Designation") shall be amended in its entirety to read as follows:
"(a) In addition to the voting rights set forth in Section 9(b), (c) and
(d), the holders of Class E Preferred Stock shall have the right with the
holders of Common Stock (and with the holders of any other class or series of
capital stock of the Corporation entitled to vote with the Common Stock (the
"Voting Stock")) to vote in the election of directors and upon each other matter
coming before any meeting of the stockholders on which the holders of Common
Stock and Voting Stock are entitled to vote, on the basis of twelve (12) votes
for each share of Class E Preferred Stock held. The holders of the Class E
Preferred Stock, Voting Stock and Common Stock shall vote together as one class
except as otherwise set forth herein or as otherwise provided by law or
elsewhere in the Certificate of Incorporation."
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9. Paragraph (d) of Section 9 of Schedule A to the Class E Certificate of
Designation shall be amended to replace clause (ii) thereof in its entirety and
to add a clause (iii) immediately following clause (ii):
"(ii) for the Corporation to merge with or into or consolidate with any
Person if, as a result of such merger or consolidation, the Class E Preferred
Stock would be converted into, exchanged for or continue as shares of capital
stock of the surviving or continuing corporation or parent of the surviving or
continuing corporation with powers, preferences or special rights which
materially and adversely differ from the powers, preferences or special rights
of the shares of Class E Preferred Stock or converted into or exchanged for cash
or (iii) amend, alter or repeal any of the provisions of the Certificate of
Incorporation of the Corporation, whether by merger, consolidation or otherwise,
to change the Maturity Date or any Dividend Payment Date or to decrease the
amount of any dividend or redemption payment or any liquidation preference of
the Class E Preferred Stock."
10. The first sentence of paragraph (a) of Section 3 of Schedule A to the
Class E Certificate of Designation shall be amended by adding the following
proviso at the very end thereof:
"provided, however, that with respect to the first Dividend Payment Date
following the effective time of the merger of AirTouch Merger Sub, Inc. with and
into the Corporation pursuant to the Amended and Restated Agreement and Plan of
Merger, dated as of April 16, 1999, between the Corporation and AirTouch Merger
Sub, Inc., the dividend per share of Class E Preferred Stock shall be increased
by an amount equal to $25.00 (such amount to be in addition to the regular
dividend payable on the Series E Preferred Stock on such Dividend Payment Date
at the rate of $51.43 per annum)."
11. The first sentence of paragraph (a) of Section 4 of Schedule A to the
Class E Certificate of Designation shall be amended in its entirety to read as
follows:
"(a) On April 1, 2020 (the "Maturity Date"), the Class E Preferred Stock
shall terminate and the holders of each outstanding share of Class E Preferred
Stock shall be entitled to receive an amount in cash equal to $1,000 per share
(the "Liquidation Amount") plus all accrued but unpaid dividends on such share
of Class E Preferred Stock (other than previously declared dividends payable to
a holder of record as of a prior date) to the Maturity Date, whether or not
declared, out of funds legally available for the payment of dividends."
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APPENDIX E
SUMMARY LISTING PARTICULARS
1. LISTING PARTICULARS
Listing Particulars dated 22 April 1999 and prepared in accordance with the
Listing Rules made under Section 142 of the Financial Services Act 1986 have
been published and alone contain full details relating to Vodafone and the
Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares to be issued, credited as fully paid, in
connection with the Merger (the "Consideration Shares").
5.33(B)
5.33(A)
The directors and the proposed directors, whose names appear in paragraph 2
below, accept responsibility for the information contained in the Listing
Particulars and these Summary Listing Particulars. To the best of the knowledge
and belief of the directors and the proposed directors (who have taken all
reasonable care to ensure that such is the case), such information is in
accordance with the facts and does not omit anything likely to affect the import
of such information.
5.33(D)
The directors are satisfied that these Summary Listing Particulars contain a
fair summary of the key information set out in the Listing Particulars.
These Summary Listing Particulars have been authorised for issue by the
London Stock Exchange without approval of their contents.
5.33(F)
2. DIRECTORS AND REGISTERED OFFICE
2.1 The directors of Vodafone and their current functions are as follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Lord MacLaurin of Knebworth, DL Non-Executive Chairman
Christopher C Gent Chief Executive
Peter R Bamford Managing Director, Vodafone
UK Limited
Julian M Horn-Smith Managing Director, Vodafone Group
International Limited
Kenneth J Hydon Financial Director
Professor Sir Alec Broers* Non-Executive Director
John Gildersleeve* Non-Executive Director
Penelope L Hughes Non-Executive Director
Sir David Scholey, CBE Non-Executive Director
</TABLE>
The registered office and the principal place of business of Vodafone is at
The Courtyard, 2-4 London Road, Newbury, Berkshire RG14 1JX, England.
Directors who will resign with effect from the date and time upon which the
Merger is consummated (the "Effective Date") and therefore not become directors
of Vodafone AirTouch are marked with an asterisk (*).
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2.2 The proposed directors of Vodafone AirTouch designated by AirTouch (the
"Proposed Directors") pursuant to the merger agreement and their functions will
be as follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
Samuel L. Ginn Non-Executive Chairman
Arun Sarin Chief Executive Officer for the
U.S./Asia Pacific region and Head of
Technical Strategy
Mohanbir S. Gyani Head of Corporate Strategy
Michael J. Boskin Non-Executive Director
Donald G. Fisher Non-Executive Director
Paul Hazen Non-Executive Director
Charles R. Schwab Non-Executive Director
</TABLE>
3. INFORMATION ON VODAFONE
Vodafone is a leading international provider of mobile telecommunications
services. It owns interests in mobile operations in the United Kingdom and 12
other countries which, as at 31 March 1999, served over 10.4 million
proportionate customers, of which over 9.5 million are connected to digital
networks. Vodafone was formed in 1984 as a subsidiary of Racal Electronics Plc
("Racal"). Approximately 20 per cent of Vodafone, then known as Racal Telecom
Limited, was offered to the public in October 1988. Vodafone was fully demerged
from Racal and became an independent company in September 1991.
Vodafone's principal business consists of the operation in the United
Kingdom of digital and analogue cellular radio telephone and paging networks.
Vodafone was the first cellular operator in the United Kingdom to open its
network for service. After commencing service on its analogue network on 1
January 1985, it subsequently launched one of the world's first digital networks
in July 1992. It has been the UK market leader since 1986 and is presently the
largest of the four United Kingdom operators with more than 5.5 million
customers at 31 March 1999, of which over 1.8 million are on its innovative "Pay
As You Talk" prepaid service.
Outside the United Kingdom, Vodafone currently has interests including, in
most cases, board representation and significant operating influence in cellular
operators in Australia, Egypt, Fiji, France, Germany, Greece, Malta, the
Netherlands, New Zealand, South Africa, Sweden and Uganda. These cellular
interests are licensed to serve over 360 million people. As at 31 March 1999,
Vodafone's international proportionate customer base outside the UK was almost
4.9 million. Vodafone also holds an approximate 3 per cent interest in
Globalstar, L.P. ("Globalstar"), which is constructing and will operate a 48
satellite low-earth wireless communications system. Vodafone is licensed to be
the Globalstar exclusive service provider in Australia, Greece, Lesotho, Malta,
South Africa, Swaziland and the United Kingdom.
Over the three financial years ended 31 March 1999, Vodafone continued to
make significant investments in its core activities. The principal investments
Vodafone has made are as follows:
3.1 In the year ended 31 March 1999, Vodafone acquired 100 per cent of New
Zealand's only GSM network operator which has been rebranded as Vodafone. The
total consideration payable by Vodafone in respect of this acquisition was L235
million.
3.2 In the year ended 31 March 1998, Vodafone acquired controlling interests
in C.V. Gemeenschapplijk Bezit Libertel, the holding partnership of Libertel
B.V., the Dutch cellular network operator, and its principal service provider,
Libertel Verkoop en Services B.V. (formerly Liberfone B.V.), by increasing its
interest from 35 per cent to 70 per cent for a net cash consideration of L256
million and the assumption of L120 million of long term debt.
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3.3 In December 1997, Vodafone exercised an option to increase its
shareholding in Societe Francaise du Radiotelephone S.A. from 16.11 per cent to
20 per cent for an aggregate consideration of L134 million. Societe Francaise du
Radiotelephone S.A. has been accounted for as an associated company since that
date.
3.4 In the year ended 31 March 1997, Vodafone acquired controlling interests
in the Greek cellular network operator, Panafon S.A., and its principal service
provider, Panavox S.A., taking Vodafone's interest from 45 per cent to 55 per
cent. The consideration paid for this transaction was L66 million. In addition,
in the 1997 fiscal year Vodafone acquired controlling interests in three U.K.
service providers for an aggregate consideration of L147 million.
4. INFORMATION ON AIRTOUCH
AirTouch is a leading international mobile telecommunications company, with
a significant presence in the U.S., Europe and Asia. As at 31 March 1999,
AirTouch had over 18.8 million customers based on its ownership share of the
cellular, paging and personal communications service ("PCS") ventures in which
it has an interest. At that date, those ventures were licensed to serve an
estimated 723 million people.
4.1 U.S. CELLULAR AND PCS OPERATIONS
AirTouch is one of the largest providers of mobile telecommunications
services in the United States. In the U.S., AirTouch's cellular and PCS ventures
had over 10.3 million customers at 31 March 1999, of which AirTouch's
proportionate share was approximately 8.7 million customers. AirTouch's
interests in its U.S. cellular and PCS ventures at 31 March 1999 represented
over 95 million POPs, a number reflecting the population of a market multiplied
by AirTouch's ownership interest in a licensee operating in the market. AirTouch
controls or shares control over cellular systems in 15 of the 30 largest
cellular markets in the U.S., including Los Angeles, Detroit, San Francisco,
Atlanta, San Diego, Minneapolis, Phoenix, Seattle, Denver, Cleveland, Portland,
San Jose, Kansas City, Cincinnati and Sacramento. In addition, through PrimeCo
Personal Communications, L.P. ("PrimeCo"), AirTouch shares control over PCS
systems operations in over 30 other major U.S. cities, including Chicago,
Dallas, Tampa, Houston, Miami, New Orleans and Milwaukee.
AirTouch's U.S. PCS operations are carried out jointly within its PrimeCo
partnership with Bell Atlantic Mobile. AirTouch and Bell Atlantic Mobile are
equal partners in PrimeCo, whose markets complement the existing U.S. cellular
franchises of the partners. PrimeCo began providing service in November 1996 and
at 31 December 1998 had over 902,000 customers. Bell Atlantic stated in a proxy
statement dated 13 April 1999 that, upon completion of the Merger between
AirTouch and Vodafone, Bell Atlantic intends to exercise its option to dissolve
PrimeCo and divide PrimeCo's personal communications services properties with
AirTouch in accordance with procedures contained in the PrimeCo partnership
agreement. The Directors of Vodafone and AirTouch consider that, if such a
dissolution were to take place, it would not have a material adverse effect on
the combined Vodafone AirTouch Group.
4.2 INTERNATIONAL CELLULAR OPERATIONS
Outside the U.S., as at 31 March 1999, AirTouch's cellular ventures were
licensed to serve more than 570 million people and had over 29 million
customers, of which AirTouch's proportionate share was approximately 6.6
million. AirTouch holds significant ownership interests, with board
representation and significant operating influence, in cellular systems
operating in Belgium, Egypt, Germany, India, Italy, Japan, Poland, Portugal,
Romania, South Korea, Spain and Sweden.
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4.3 US PAGING
Industry surveys indicate that AirTouch is also among the largest providers
of paging services in the U.S., with approximately 3.5 million units in service
as at 31 March 1999.
4.4 GLOBALSTAR
AirTouch holds a 5.2 per cent interest in Globalstar and is licensed to be
the exclusive Globalstar service provider in the United States, the Caribbean
and eastern Asia (Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia) and, through partnerships, in
Canada and Mexico.
4.5 RECENT ACQUISITIONS AND MERGERS
In April 1998, AirTouch completed the acquisition of the US cellular
business and the 25 per cent PrimeCo interest of MediaOne Group, Inc. (the
"MediaOne Group Merger"). AirTouch issued approximately 59.4 million shares of
AirTouch common stock ("AirTouch Common Shares") having a fair market value of
$2.9 billion on the date of issuance, approximately $1.6 billion of dividend
bearing preferred stock with a 5.143 per cent coupon, assumed approximately $1.4
billion of debt associated with the acquired businesses, and granted MediaOne
Group registration rights with respect to the AirTouch Common Shares and
preferred stock issued. No cash was acquired or paid in the MediaOne Group
Merger.
In August 1996, AirTouch acquired approximately 63 per cent of the
outstanding stock of Cellular Communications, Inc. that it did not already own
for approximately $1.6 billion. The consideration consisted of $1.04 billion in
AirTouch preferred securities, $393 million in cash, AirTouch stock options
valued at approximately $17 million and the assumption of $217 million of zero
coupon convertible subordinated notes due 1999, all of which have been redeemed.
5. PROPOSED MERGER WITH AIRTOUCH
Vodafone and AirTouch have entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger,
dated as of 15 January 1999 (the "Merger Agreement"), together with Apollo
Merger Sub, Inc. (a wholly owned subsidiary of Vodafone) ("Merger Sub") pursuant
to which they agreed that Merger Sub would be merged with and into AirTouch.
AirTouch will become a subsidiary of Vodafone in accordance with the terms in
the Merger Agreement (the "Merger") and Vodafone will be renamed "Vodafone
AirTouch Public Limited Company" ("Vodafone AirTouch") from the Effective Date.
In addition, prior to the Merger becoming effective, an internal
reorganisation of AirTouch will be undertaken by AirTouch, the effect of which
will be to amend AirTouch's certificate of incorporation to satisfy requirements
for the Merger to be tax free to U.S. holders of AirTouch Common Shares, except
with respect to cash received in the Merger.
Vodafone AirTouch's shares will remain listed on the London Stock Exchange
and its ADSs will remain listed on the New York Stock Exchange. Following the
Effective Date, Vodafone AirTouch will own all of the outstanding common stock
of AirTouch, although certain outstanding preferred shares of AirTouch will
continue to be held by their existing holders. As a result, Vodafone AirTouch is
expected to control, through its ownership of all of the AirTouch Common Shares,
between approximately 94.4 per cent and 96.9 per cent of the voting rights in
AirTouch, depending on the number of AirTouch preferred shares converted into
AirTouch Common Shares and the number of AirTouch stock options exercised prior
to the Merger becoming effective.
Under the terms of the Merger, AirTouch Common Shareholders (other than
Vodafone, AirTouch, their respective subsidiaries and AirTouch Common
Shareholders who properly exercise statutory rights of appraisal) will be
entitled to receive for each AirTouch Common Share five Vodafone AirTouch
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ordinary shares ("Vodafone AirTouch Ordinary Shares") in the form of Vodafone
AirTouch ADSs plus $9.00 in cash (the "Cash Consideration"), without interest.
Each Vodafone AirTouch ADS will represent ten Vodafone AirTouch Ordinary
Shares and, as a consequence, AirTouch Common Shareholders will receive 0.5 of a
Vodafone AirTouch ADS in exchange for each AirTouch Common Share they own at the
Effective Date. AirTouch Common Shareholders who would otherwise have been
entitled to receive a fraction of a Vodafone AirTouch ADS will be entitled to
receive, in lieu thereof, a payment in cash (without interest) equal to their
proportionate interest in the net proceeds from the sale on the New York Stock
Exchange of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs representing the aggregate of all fractional
entitlements.
Upon the Merger becoming effective, all employee options to acquire AirTouch
Common Shares outstanding at that time will convert into options to acquire
Vodafone AirTouch Ordinary Shares (in the form of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs) after
adjustment to take account of the exchange ratio and the Cash Consideration.
There is a maximum number of 33.4 million AirTouch employee options outstanding
as at 20 April 1999 (the latest practicable date prior to the date of this
document). It is expected that up to 9.9 million may have vested and been
exercised by the Effective Date and that the balance of approximately 23.5
million will become exercisable immediately after the Effective Date.
The Merger is subject to the approval of the shareholders of Vodafone and
AirTouch at general meetings of the respective companies, together with the
fulfillment of certain other conditions, including obtaining regulatory
consents.
The Merger Agreement may be terminated by mutual consent of the parties or
by either party in certain circumstances before the Merger becomes effective and
in certain circumstances a termination payment of either $1 billion (L620
million) or $225 million (L140 million) may be payable by AirTouch to Vodafone
or $225 million (L140 million) by Vodafone to AirTouch pursuant to the Merger
Agreement.
The Merger will become effective only following the receipt of shareholder
approvals and the satisfaction of the other conditions to the Merger. Vodafone
and AirTouch hope to complete the Merger in June or July of 1999.
6. REDENOMINATION, DIVIDENDS AND ACCOUNTING
It is proposed to redenominate the existing Vodafone ordinary shares of 5p
each into ordinary shares of $0.10 each immediately prior to the Merger taking
effect (the "Redenomination"). The Merger is not conditional upon the
Redenomination becoming effective. However, as the Redenomination is being
proposed in connection with the Merger, subject to the High Court's
confirmation, the board will not implement the Redenomination unless and until
all the conditions to the Merger are, or are believed by the board, likely to be
satisfied or waived in all respects.
Under English law, a public company is required to have an issued share
capital with a sterling nominal value of at least L50,000. Therefore, upon the
Redenomination taking place, the Company will issue L50,000 fixed rate shares at
par to one of the Company's bankers so that the Company complies with this
requirement. The Company expects to undertake to the holder of the fixed rate
shares that it will seek shareholder consent to enter into a contract for the
repurchase of the shares at the annual general meeting in 2003.
Holders of Vodafone AirTouch Ordinary Shares will be paid dividends in
sterling and holders of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs will receive from the Depositary
a payment in U.S. dollars equivalent to that paid in sterling on the underlying
Vodafone AirTouch Ordinary Shares. It is expected that half-yearly dividends
will be paid on Vodafone AirTouch Ordinary Shares in February and August.
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Vodafone AirTouch will account for the Merger using the acquisition method
of accounting under U.K. GAAP. This will result in a goodwill amortisation
charge of approximately L2 billion per annum for a number of years after the
Merger, thereby reducing the reported consolidated profit of the Company. This
goodwill amortisation arises as an accounting charge against profit upon
consolidation of Vodafone and AirTouch and will not affect Vodafone AirTouch's
cash flows, distributable reserves or ability to pay dividends. Following the
Merger, Vodafone AirTouch will report earnings per share before goodwill
amortisation expense and profit or loss on the disposal of fixed asset
investments, in addition to basic and diluted earnings per share. Pro forma
earnings per share for the year ended 31 March 1998 and six months ended 30
September 1998 on the adjusted basis were 10.65p and 8.44p respectively, as
described further in Section A of Part IV of the Listing Particulars.
The financial year of Vodafone AirTouch will end on 31 March in each year.
The financial statements of Vodafone AirTouch will be published in sterling and
will be prepared in accordance with U.K. GAAP. Vodafone AirTouch financial
statements will also include a summary of the effects of the differences between
U.K. GAAP and U.S. GAAP for certain financial information such as net income,
shareholders' equity and total assets. Vodafone AirTouch will initially report
results half-yearly and will move to a quarterly basis within two years from the
Effective Date.
7. FINANCING THE MERGER
Vodafone expects to pay approximately $5.5 billion (L3.4 billion) in cash to
AirTouch Common Shareholders in the Merger depending on the number of AirTouch
Common Shares in issue at the time of the Merger and assuming no exercise of
appraisal rights, reflecting a cash consideration of $9 per AirTouch Common
Share. In addition, Vodafone currently expects that the expenses of Vodafone and
AirTouch in connection with the Merger will be approximately $270 million (L167
million).
The aggregate value of the share consideration to be paid by Vodafone
pursuant to the Merger, calculated on the basis of the per share price of
1,066p, being the closing middle market quotation for Vodafone ordinary shares
as derived from the Daily Official List of the London Stock Exchange on 20 April
1999 (the latest practicable date prior to the posting of the document)
multiplied by 3,075,000,000 (being the maximum number of consideration shares
expected to be issued), is approximately L32.8 billion ($52.9 billion) after
applying an exchange rate of $1.6135: L1 (being the noon-buying rate prevailing
at 20 April 1999) and assuming that no appraisal rights are exercised. The
aggregate value of the Cash Consideration to be paid by Vodafone pursuant to
this Merger, calculated on the basis of $9 per AirTouch Common Share is
approximately $5.5 billion (L3.4 billion), on the basis that 615,000,000
AirTouch Common Shares are outstanding at the Effective Date and assuming that
no appraisal rights are exercised.
Vodafone and AirTouch entered into a $10.5 billion (L6.5 billion) facility
agreement on 16 April 1999 to finance the aggregate Cash Consideration, to pay
for the expenses of the Merger and for other general corporate purposes. Part of
this facility comprises 364 day tranches, with options for Vodafone to extend by
an additional one year, and part of it is revolving for up to five years.
Due to the additional indebtedness that Vodafone will incur to finance the
Cash Consideration and to pay expenses associated with the Merger, as well as
the rating differential of the existing indebtedness of the two companies,
Standard & Poor's and Moody's Investor Services may downgrade Vodafone's
corporate credit debt ratings. However, Vodafone and AirTouch believe that any
consequential increase in the net borrowing costs of Vodafone AirTouch after the
Merger would not be material.
8. RISK FACTORS RELATING TO THE MERGER
Vodafone and AirTouch entered into the Merger Agreement with the expectation
that the Merger would result in certain cost savings and revenue enhancements.
There can be no assurance that the
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Vodafone AirTouch Group will realise any of the anticipated benefits in full or
at all. Vodafone and AirTouch must obtain, as a condition to their obligation to
complete the Merger, clearance under EU competition laws and the approval of the
Federal Communications Commission. In addition, both companies operate in highly
competitive and regulated telecommunications markets and the licensing,
construction and operation of telecommunications systems and services and the
allocation of frequency spectrum are subject to extensive regulation and
supervision by various government entities.
The Year 2000 problem could result in system failure or miscalculations
causing disruptions of operations. Both Vodafone and AirTouch have implemented
programmes which seek to ensure that they do not suffer business losses from
failures due to the Year 2000 problem. They are taking positive steps to
minimize the effect of the Year 2000 date change before, after and during the
Year 2000 on their ability to maintain their networks and to continue to provide
services to their customers.
Vodafone's planned remediation and millennium testing activities were
successfully completed for all essential systems by the target date of 31
December 1998 and roll-out of these systems is already largely complete with a
target end date in the second quarter of 1999. Activities outstanding include
transition and contingency planning, business scenario testing and completing
millennium activities for all non-critical systems.
Based on the current progress of AirTouch's Year 2000 efforts and on the
assumption that third parties will meet their commitments, AirTouch believes
that it can prevent serious disruption to the mission-critical systems of its
consolidated markets.
9. PROPOSED DIRECTORS' SERVICE ARRANGEMENTS
9.1 VODAFONE DIRECTOR'S SERVICE CONTRACTS
All four executive directors, Chris Gent, Peter Bamford, Julian Horn-Smith
and Ken Hydon, have service contracts with Vodafone which can be terminated on
giving 12 months' notice. Vodafone has the right to pay an executive director in
lieu of giving him notice. All the executive directors' service contracts expire
automatically on the birthday of the executive that represents his normal
retirement age which is currently 60 years.
The executive directors receive additional protection if Vodafone terminates
or gives notice to terminate their employment within 12 months of a change of
control of Vodafone. In such circumstances, Vodafone must give the executive
director 24 months' notice. Provided certain conditions are fulfilled, each
executive director may also be entitled to payment of the equivalent of two
years' salary and benefits. Payment of the sum described is conditional on the
executive director signing an agreement or agreements accepting it in full and
final settlement of all claims against the Vodafone Group arising out of the
termination of his employment and undertaking to remain bound by confidentiality
obligations and restrictions on his activities after termination.
The executive directors current salaries are Chris Gent L648,000, Peter
Bamford L333,900, Julian Horn-Smith L361,800, and Ken Hydon L344,500. The
executive directors are contributing members of the Vodafone Group Directors
Pension Scheme and Peter Bamford also participates in the Vodafone Group funded
and approved retirement benefits scheme in order to conform his benefits to
those of the other Executive Directors. Each executive director is also provided
with a company car, company sick pay, premiums paid by Vodafone for a private
health insurance scheme for himself, his wife and his children under 21. The
executive directors participate in Vodafone's executive share schemes, the
Vodafone Group Short Term Incentive Plan and the Vodafone Group Long Term
Incentive Plan and are entitled to participate in its all-employee share
schemes, the savings related share option scheme and the profit sharing scheme.
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On condition that the Merger becomes effective, Chris Gent's salary will
increase to L900,000, Peter Bamford's to L490,000, Julian Horn-Smith's to
L490,000 and Ken Hydon's to L490,000. Conditional on the Merger becoming
effective each of Chris Gent, Julian Horn-Smith and Ken Hydon will receive a
Merger bonus of L325,000, L150,000 and L175,000 respectively. The existing
Vodafone executive directors and Lord MacLaurin will each receive 5 per cent
increases in their fees with effect from the earlier of 1 July or the Effective
Date. Non-executive directors may elect to receive their fees in shares.
The appointment of Lord MacLaurin, Vodafone's Chairman, is subject to the
terms of an agreement with Vodafone dated 21 July 1998. Lord MacLaurin is
appointed as a non-executive director for a three year term provided that he
does not resign from the board or, having retired by rotation, he is re-elected
to the board. His appointment may be terminated early if Lord MacLaurin has
prolonged absence for ill-health. He is provided with a car to assist in the
performance of his duties.
9.2 PROPOSED DIRECTORS' SERVICE CONTRACTS
Arun Sarin and Mohan Gyani are each employed by AirTouch under employment
agreements dated 12 February 1998. From the Effective Date they will continue to
be employed under those agreements. Messrs Sarin and Gyani's salary are $750,000
and $422,000 per annum with effective from 1 April 1999.
Messrs Sarin and Gyani's employment can be terminated by either party by 30
days' prior written notice to the other. However, the service contracts can only
be terminated by one year's prior written notice. Following a change in control
the first effective date of termination of the service contracts can be no
earlier than 3 years after that change in control.
On termination following a change in control, Messrs Sarin and Gyani are
entitled to a cash payment of three time base compensation, plus 300 per cent of
the target award (currently 90 percent and 65 percent of salary respectively)
under the AirTouch Communications Incentive Plan. All equity incentive awards
will become fully exercisable and they would be entitled to other benefits such
as continued welfare benefits for a three year period. If these payments are
subject to excise tax, AirTouch is also required to pay an additional gross-up
payment so that the employee receives the net amount he would have received had
such tax not applied.
On termination of the employee's employment where there is no change of
control, the cash payment is reduced to one and one half times base
compensation, plus 150 per cent of the target award and the period which welfare
and other benefits are continued is also reduced. The payments are also
conditional on the employee signing a release of all claims against AirTouch in
connection with the employment or its termination.
If any payment made to the employee under the employment agreements would be
subject to excise tax the employee is entitled to additional payments equal to
the excise tax payable on the total payment. Messrs Sarin and Gyani are also
eligible to participate in employee benefit plans and executive compensation
programmes maintained by AirTouch and will participate in the New Vodafone
AirTouch Share Schemes. As part of the Merger Agreement, Vodafone has undertaken
to maintain the levels of benefits provided by AirTouch under the AirTouch
Employee Share Plans for at least one year, and, more generally, to provide
competitive compensation and benefit programmes in each home country market.
Sam Ginn's appointment as a non-executive director of Vodafone AirTouch
under an agreement dated 6 April 1999 is conditional upon the Merger becoming
effective and upon his election as a director and will become effective on the
Effective Date. The agreement is for a two year period and will continue beyond
that term unless terminated by either party giving one years notice. Sam Ginn
will receive fees of $375,000 per annum.
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10. INDEBTEDNESS
On 31 March 1999 the borrowings and indebtedness of the Vodafone Group and
the AirTouch Group, excluding their respective intra-group borrowings, were as
follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
L MILLION
-------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH
GROUP GROUP TOTAL
----------- ----------- -----------
Unsecured loans and other borrowings:
Bonds and notes....................................................... 733.8 1,615.3 2,349.1
Finance leases........................................................ 0.2 6.1 6.3
Other borrowings...................................................... 780.1 150.5 930.6
----------- ----------- -----------
TOTAL................................................................. 1,514.1 1,771.9 3,286.0
----------- ----------- -----------
----------- ----------- -----------
</TABLE>
At close of business on 31 March 1999 Vodafone Group had given guarantees
and indemnities to third parties of L174.7 million. At close of business on 31
March 1999 AirTouch Group had given guarantees and indemnities to third parties
of L139.3 million.
Save as disclosed above and in respect of the litigation disclosed in
Section 14 below, the effect of which is not as yet quantifiable, and apart from
their respective intra-group liabilities, neither the Vodafone Group nor the
AirTouch Group had outstanding as at 31 March 1999 any loan capital issues, or
created but unissued, term loans, other borrowings or indebtedness in the nature
of borrowing, including bank overdrafts, liabilities under acceptances (other
than normal trade bills) or acceptance credits, hire purchase commitments, or
obligations under finance leases, mortgages, charges, guarantees or other
material contingent liabilities.
In addition, as at 31 March 1999 the Vodafone Group had cash of L6.1 million
and the AirTouch Group had cash of L3.6 million.
Foreign currency amounts have been translated into sterling at the exchange
rates at close of business on 31 March 1999.
11. WORKING CAPITAL
Vodafone is of the opinion that, taking into account available bank and
other money market facilities, Vodafone, as enlarged by the Merger with
AirTouch, has sufficient working capital for at least the next twelve months
from the date of the Listing Particulars.
12. FINANCIAL AND TRADING POSITION
Since 30 September 1998, being the date to which the most recent unaudited
interim financial statements have been published, and save as disclosed in
Section 8 of Part I (Current Trading and Prospects) and Section B of Part IV
(Indebtedness of the Vodafone Group and the AirTouch Group) of the Listing
Particulars, there has been no significant change in the financial or trading
position of the Vodafone Group.
Since 31 March 1999, being the date to which the most recent unaudited
interim financial statements have been published, and save as disclosed in
Section 8 of Part I (Current Trading and Prospects), Section 6 of Part III
(AirTouch's Press Release of 22 April 1999) and Section B of Part IV
(Indebtedness of the Vodafone Group and the AirTouch Group) in the Listing
Particulars, there has been no significant change in the financial or trading
position of the AirTouch Group.
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13. MATERIAL CONTRACTS
13.1 Except as disclosed in Section 13.2 below and for the Merger Agreement,
no contracts other than contracts entered into in the ordinary course of
business, have been entered into by Vodafone or any of its subsidiaries within
the two years immediately preceding the date of this document which are, or may
be, material.
13.2 Vodafone and AirTouch have entered into a $10,500,000,000 term and
revolving credit facility dated 16 April 1999 (the "Facility"), provided by the
lenders.
The Facility is split into three tranches. Tranche A is a $4,000,000,000
revolving loan facility and Tranche B a $3,000,000,000 term loan facility, each
of which is available in the first year of the Facility. Vodafone has the option
of extending the repayment of advances under those tranches up to the second
anniversary of the date of the Facility. Tranche C is a $3,500,000,000 revolving
loan facility, available for five years. Advances may be drawn in US dollars,
sterling and euros.
Facility advances will bear interest at a rate per annum equal to the
aggregate of (i) the applicable margin, (ii) the London interbank offered rate
and (iii) the cost to the lenders of complying with capital adequacy and other
regulatory requirements which are passed on to the borrowers. The applicable
margin varies for each of the tranches and according to tranche utilization and
the credit rating assigned to Vodafone AirTouch at the relevent time, in a range
from 0.45 per cent per annum to 0.80 per cent per annum. Commitment fees are
also payable on undrawn amounts of the Facility at 0.125 per cent per annum on
Tranches A and B, and 40 per cent of the margin on Tranche C.
If there is a change in control of Vodafone, individual lenders may require
that their participation in the Facility be cancelled and prepaid if they are
not able to agree terms on which they are willing to continue to participate in
the Faciltiy.
Certain other terms and conditions usual for facilities of this type apply
to the Facility (including conditions precedent, prepayment provisions,
representations and warranties, covenants (including financial ratios), events
of default, indemnities and provisions to protect the margin receivable by the
lenders). Vodafone has the option, at its election, to suspend the operation of
certain specified conditions to the availability of the Facility for up to two
months before completion of the Merger to provide certainty of funding.
13.3 Except as disclosed in Section 13.2 above, Section 13.4 below and for
the Merger Agreement, no contracts, other than contracts entered into in the
ordinary course of business, have been entered into by members of the AirTouch
Group within the two years immediately preceding the date of this document which
are, or may be, material.
13.4 AirTouch entered into an agreement and plan of merger dated 29 January
1998 which was completed in April 1998 (the "MediaOne Agreement") between U S
WEST, Inc., now MediaOne Group, Inc., ("MediaOne"), U S WEST Media Group, Inc.,
U S WEST NewVector, Inc. ("NV"), U S WEST PCS Holdings, Inc. ("PCS Holdings")
and AirTouch.
Under the MediaOne Agreement, AirTouch acquired the US cellular business of
MediaOne and MediaOne's 25 per cent interest in PrimeCo in consideration of
which AirTouch issued approximately 59.4 million AirTouch Common Shares having a
fair market value of $2.9 billion on the date of issuance and approximately $1.6
billion of dividend-bearing redeemable preferred stock with a 5.143 per cent
coupon and granted MediaOne registration rights in relation to such shares and
preferred stock. AirTouch also assumed approximately $1.4 billion of
indebtedness, which it refinanced, and assumed the guarantee obligations
executed by MediaOne in relation to certain leveraged leases entered into by
PrimeCo.
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In accordance with post-closing adjustments to the merger consideration as
set out in the MediaOne Agreement, in September 1998 MediaOne returned to
AirTouch, as a first and final adjustment, approximately 130,000 AirTouch Common
Shares with a then market value of $7.9 million.
AirTouch and MediaOne also gave certain representations and warranties to
each other and indemnified each other against certain losses to the extent they
exceed $40 million up to a maximum amount of $750 million, which arise from
claims made in the 18 months from the effective date of the MediaOne Agreement.
The parties to the MediaOne Agreement also agreed to enter into various
ancilliary agreements before the closing date of the MediaOne Agreement,
including patent and software licensing agreements, a tax sharing agreement and
a new investment agreement.
14. LITIGATION
14.1 No member of the Vodafone Group is or has been engaged in any legal or
arbitration proceedings which may have, or have had during the 12 months
preceding the date of this document, a significant effect on the Vodafone
Group's financial position nor, so far as the Directors are aware, are any such
proceedings pending or threatened.
14.2 Other than as set out in Sections 14.3 to 14.9 below, no member of the
AirTouch Group is or has been engaged in any legal or arbitration proceedings
which may have, or have had during the 12 months preceding the date of this
document, a significant effect on the AirTouch Group's consolidated financial
position nor, so far as AirTouch is aware, are any such proceedings pending or
threatened.
14.3 AirTouch is a defendant in various antitrust lawsuits filed in both
state and federal courts in the U.S. In 1993, a class action complaint was filed
in the State of California in the Orange County Superior Court. The plaintiffs
alleged that AirTouch was involved in price fixing in the Los Angeles cellular
market. In 1994, a parallel class action complaint, also filed in Orange County
Superior Court, was stayed pending the resolution of the 1993 case. In 1997, the
same court approved a settlement of the 1993 case, although three plaintiffs
have filed an appeal challenging the adequacy of the settlement.
14.4 In December 1998, a complaint was filed against AirTouch and other
cellular service providers in the State of California in the Sacramento County
Superior Court on behalf of all individuals subscribing to service in the
Sacramento area. The plaintiffs claimed that the defendants conspired to fix
prices for cellular services and sought injunctive relief and damages in excess
of $100 million. This case is at a preliminary stage of proceedings and AirTouch
is not able to assess the impact, if any, of these cases on its current
financial position or results of operations.
14.5 In July 1998, customers filed a further complaint in the Sacramento
County Superior Court against AirTouch and other cellular and PCS carriers
challenging the legality of certain billing practices and claiming that the
practices are not adequately disclosed in the California markets. This case was
subsequently dismissed with prejudice. The plaintiffs have filed a notice of
appeal. In August 1998, a complaint was filed against PrimeCo, an unconsolidated
subsidiary of AirTouch, in the Cook County Chancery Court. The plaintiffs are
challenging the legality of certain billing practices and claiming that the
practices are not adequately disclosed. The plaintiffs are seeking unspecified
monetary damages and revisions of PrimeCo's billing practices. Also in August
1998, a second complaint was filed against PrimeCo in the Cook County Chancery
Court alleging certain deficiencies in PrimeCo's network performance. The
plaintiffs are seeking unspecified monetary damages. These cases are at
preliminary stages of proceedings. AirTouch is not able to assess the impact, if
any, of these cases on its financial position or results of operations.
14.6 On 6 January 1999, a class action was filed against AirTouch in the
Federal District Court for the Central District of California alleging claims
under section 10(b) and 20(a) of the Securities
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Exchange Act, 15 U.S.C. 78j and 78t and Rule 10b-5. The action was filed on
behalf of individuals who sold AirTouch Common Shares or call options or
purchased put options on 4 January 1999. The plaintiffs claim that AirTouch's
press release on 3 January 1999 was false and misleading because it confirmed
that AirTouch was in discussions with Bell Atlantic but did not disclose that it
was in discussions with Vodafone. The plaintiffs are seeking unspecified
monetary damages. This case is at a preliminary stage of proceedings and
AirTouch is not able to assess the impact, if any, on its current financial
position or results of operations.
14.7 Bell Atlantic filed an action against AirTouch on 15 January 1999 in
the Federal District Court for the Northern District of California seeking an
injunction to void clauses of the TOMCOM, L.P. and PrimeCo partnership
agreements which restrict a partner's ability to compete against the
partnerships. AirTouch has filed a counterclaim against Bell Atlantic for
violations of the partnership agreements. The case is at a preliminary stage of
proceedings and AirTouch is not able to assess the impact, if any, on its
current financial position or results of operations.
14.8 In March 1999, customers filed a class action complaint in Los Angeles
County Superior Court against AirTouch challenging the legality of the
assessment of an early disconnection charge when a customer terminates service
under a contract whose duration has been extended upon the acceptance of a new
promotional offer. The plaintiffs are seeking injunctive relief and unspecified
monetary damages, including disgorgement of monies obtained as a result of the
alleged unlawful business practices. This case is at a preliminary stage of
proceedings and AirTouch is not currently able to assess the impact, if any, on
its financial position or results of operations.
14.9 In April 1999, a complaint was filed against AirTouch in the State of
Michigan on behalf of all individuals subscribing to service in that state. The
plaintiffs are challenging the legality of AirTouch's assessment of certain
charges for local calls and charges for calls that pass through wireline
networks. The plaintiffs are seeking injunctive relief and unspecified monetary
damages. This case is at a preliminary stage of proceedings and AirTouch is not
currently able to assess the impact, if any, of this case on its financial
position or results of operations.
15. AVAILABILITY OF LISTING PARTICULARS
Copies of the Listing Particulars are being sent to each shareholder of
Vodafone as at 20 April 1999 and are available upon request, free of charge from
Vodafone's registered office at The Courtyard, 2-4 London Road, Newbury,
Berkshire RG14 1JX and for inspection at the offices of Linklaters & Paines at
One Silk Street, London EC2Y 8HQ, England and the Companies Announcement Office
during normal business hours on any weekday (Saturdays and public holidays
excepted) from 22 April 1999 to the Effective Date.
5.33(C)(I)
5.33(C)(II)
16. PROCEDURE FOR RECEIVING VODAFONE AIRTOUCH ADSS
5.33(E)
It is expected that admission to the Official List of the London Stock
Exchange of the consideration shares and the dollar shares will become effective
and dealings will commence at 9:00 am on the Effective Date. Promptly after the
Effective Date, the exchange agent will send each AirTouch Common Shareholder
(other than Vodafone, AirTouch or any subsidiary of Vodafone or AirTouch or
AirTouch Common Shareholders who properly exercise appraisal rights) holding a
certificate, a letter of transmittal for use in effecting delivery of AirTouch
Common Shares to the exchange agent. Upon surrender of an AirTouch Common Share
certificate for cancellation to the exchange agent, together with a duly
executed and completed letter of transmittal, and any other documents required
by the exchange agent, the holder of each AirTouch Common Share certificate will
be entitled to receive in exchange for such AirTouch Common Share certificate
(a) one or more Vodafone AirTouch ADRs evidencing, in the aggregate, the whole
number of Vodafone AirTouch ADSs that such holder has the right to receive as
the Merger consideration and (b) a cheque in the amount (after giving effect to
any
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required tax withholdings) of (i) $9 in respect of each AirTouch Common Share;
(ii) cash in lieu of fractional Vodafone AirTouch ADSs; and (iii) any cash
dividends or other distributions that have accrued or have been announced in
respect of Vodafone AirTouch Ordinary Shares between the Effective Date and the
date of the surrender of the AirTouch Common Share certificate and delivery of
other documents required by the Exchange Agent. The AirTouch Common Share
certificates so surrendered will be cancelled. No interest will be paid or
accrued on any amount payable under surrender of the AirTouch Common Shares.
17. DOCUMENTS AVAILABLE FOR INSPECTION
In addition to the Listing Particulars the following documents may be
inspected at the offices of Linklaters & Paines at One Silk Street, London EC2Y
8HQ, England, during usual business hours on any weekday (Saturdays and public
holidays excepted) until the Effective Date and from 10.30 am on 24 May 1999
until the conclusion of the Vodafone extraordinary general meeting:
17.1 the Memorandum and Articles of Association of Vodafone in their
current form;
17.2 the current Memorandum and Articles of Association of Vodafone
Airtouch incorporating the changes to be made to them assuming the "plain
English" Articles are not adopted, but the Redenomination and Merger take
effect;
17.3 the Memorandum and Articles of Association of Vodafone in "plain
English" form excluding changes relating to the Redenomination and Merger;
17.4 the Memorandum and Articles of Association of Vodafone AirTouch in
their proposed "plain English" form assuming the Redenomination and the Merger
take effect and all of the resolutions proposed at the EGM which amend the
Articles of Association are passed;
17.5 the audited consolidated accounts of Vodafone for the two financial
years ended 31 March 1998 and the unaudited interim report for the six month
period ended 30 September 1998;
17.6 the audited consolidated accounts of AirTouch for the two financial
years ended 31 December 1998;
17.7 the letter from Deloitte & Touche regarding the proportionate
financial information of Vodafone set out in Section 4 of Part II of the Listing
Particulars;
17.8 the letter from Deloitte & Touche regarding the summary of differences
between U.S. GAAP and U.K. GAAP for AirTouch, set out in Section 4 of Part III
of the Listing Particulars;
17.9 the letter from Deloitte & Touche regarding the Unaudited Pro Forma
Consolidated Financial Information set out in Section A of Part IV of the
Listing Particulars;
17.10 the Proxy Statement/Prospectus;
17.11 the letter from Goldman Sachs International to Vodafone dated 15
January 1999 giving its opinion as of that date that the consideration to be
paid by Vodafone to AirTouch Shareholders in the Merger was fair from a
financial point of view to Vodafone;
17.12 the service contracts referred to in Section 7.4 and 7.5 of Part VI
of the Listing Particulars;
17.13 the material contracts referred to in Section 9 of Part VI of the
Listing Particulars;
17.14 the written consents referred to in Section 11 of Part VI of the
Listing Particulars;
17.15 the rules of the AirTouch Communications, Inc. 1993 Long-Term Stock
Incentive Plan, the AirTouch Communications, Inc. Employee Stock Purchase Plan,
the Vodafone AirTouch Plc 1999 Long Term Stock Incentive Plan, the Vodafone
AirTouch Plc 1999 Employee Stock Purchase Plan and the Vodafone Group Long Term
Incentive Plan.
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APPENDIX F
DELAWARE CODE TITLE 8. CORPORATIONS
CHAPTER 1. GENERAL CORPORATION LAW
SUBCHAPTER IX. MERGER OR CONSOLIDATION
Section 262 APPRAISAL RIGHTS.
(a) Any stockholder of a corporation of this State who holds shares of stock
on the date of the making of a demand pursuant to subsection (d) of this section
with respect to such shares, who continuously holds such shares through the
effective date of the merger or consolidation, who has otherwise complied with
subsection (d) of this section and who has neither voted in favor of the merger
or consolidation nor consented thereto in writing pursuant to Section 228 of
this title shall be entitled to an appraisal by the Court of Chancery of the
fair value of the stockholder's shares of stock under the circumstances
described in subsections (b) and (c) of this section. As used in this section,
the word "stockholder" means a holder of record of stock in a stock corporation
and also a member of record of a nonstock corporation; the words "stock" and
"share" mean and include what is ordinarily meant by those words and also
membership or membership interest of a member of a nonstock corporation; and the
words "depository receipt" mean a receipt or other instrument issued by a
depository representing an interest in one or more shares, or fractions thereof,
solely of stock of a corporation, which stock is deposited with the depository.
(b) Appraisal rights shall be available for the shares of any class or
series of stock of a constituent corporation in a merger or consolidation to be
effected pursuant to Section251 (other than a merger effected pursuant to
Section251(g) of this title), Section252, Section254, Section257, Section258,
Section263 or Section264 of this title:
(1) Provided, however, that no appraisal rights under this section shall
be available for the shares of any class or series of stock, which stock, or
depository receipts in respect thereof, at the record date fixed to
determine the stockholders entitled to receive notice of and to vote at the
meeting of stockholders to act upon the agreement of merger or
consolidation, were either (i) listed on a national securities exchange or
designated as a national market system security on an interdealer quotation
system by the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. or (ii) held
of record by more than 2,000 holders; and further provided that no appraisal
rights shall be available for any shares of stock of the constituent
corporation surviving a merger if the merger did not require for its
approval the vote of the stockholders of the surviving corporation as
provided in subsection (f) of Section251 of this title.
(2) Notwithstanding paragraph (1) of this subsection, appraisal rights
under this section shall be available for the shares of any class or series
of stock of a constituent corporation if the holders thereof are required by
the terms of an agreement of merger or consolidation pursuant to Sections
251, 252, 254, 257, 258, 263 and 264 of this title to accept for such stock
anything except:
a. Shares of stock of the corporation surviving or resulting from
such merger or consolidation, or depository receipts in respect thereof;
b. Shares of stock of any other corporation, or depository receipts
in respect thereof, which shares of stock (or depository receipts in
respect thereof) or depository receipts at the effective date of the
merger or consolidation will be either listed on a national securities
exchange or designated as a national market system security on an
interdealer quotation system by the National Association of Securities
Dealers, Inc. or held of record by more than 2,000 holders;
c. Cash in lieu of fractional shares or fractional depository
receipts described in the foregoing subparagraphs a. and b. of this
paragraph; or
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d. Any combination of the shares of stock, depository receipts and
cash in lieu of fractional shares or fractional depository receipts
described in the foregoing subparagraphs a., b. and c. of this paragraph.
(3) In the event all of the stock of a subsidiary Delaware corporation
party to a merger effected under Section253 of this title is not owned by
the parent corporation immediately prior to the merger, appraisal rights
shall be available for the shares of the subsidiary Delaware corporation.
(c) Any corporation may provide in its certificate of incorporation that
appraisal rights under this section shall be available for the shares of any
class or series of its stock as a result of an amendment to its certificate of
incorporation, any merger or consolidation in which the corporation is a
constituent corporation or the sale of all or substantially all of the assets of
the corporation. If the certificate of incorporation contains such a provision,
the procedures of this section, including those set forth in subsections (d) and
(e) of this section, shall apply as nearly as is practicable.
(d) Appraisal rights shall be perfected as follows:
(1) If a proposed merger or consolidation for which appraisal rights are
provided under this section is to be submitted for approval at a meeting of
stockholders, the corporation, not less than 20 days prior to the meeting,
shall notify each of its stockholders who was such on the record date for
such meeting with respect to shares for which appraisal rights are available
pursuant to subsections (b) or (c) hereof that appraisal rights are
available for any or all of the shares of the constituent corporations, and
shall include in such notice a copy of this section. Each stockholder
electing to demand the appraisal of such stockholder's shares shall deliver
to the corporation, before the taking of the vote on the merger or
consolidation, a written demand for appraisal of such stockholder's shares.
Such demand will be sufficient if it reasonably informs the corporation of
the identity of the stockholder and that the stockholder intends thereby to
demand the appraisal of such stockholder's shares. A proxy or vote against
the merger or consolidation shall not constitute such a demand. A
stockholder electing to take such action must do so by a separate written
demand as herein provided. Within 10 days after the effective date of such
merger or consolidation, the surviving or resulting corporation shall notify
each stockholder of each constituent corporation who has complied with this
subsection and has not voted in favor of or consented to the merger or
consolidation of the date that the merger or consolidation has become
effective; or
(2) If the merger or consolidation was approved pursuant to Section228
or Section253 of this title, each constituent corporation, either before the
effective date of the merger or consolidation or within ten days thereafter,
shall notify each of the holders of any class or series of stock of such
constituent corporation who are entitled to appraisal rights of the approval
of the merger or consolidation and that appraisal rights are available for
any or all shares of such class or series of stock of such constituent
corporation, and shall include in such notice a copy of this section;
provided that, if the notice is given on or after the effective date of the
merger or consolidation, such notice shall be given by the surviving or
resulting corporation to all such holders of any class or series of stock of
a constituent corporation that are entitled to appraisal rights. Such notice
may, and, if given on or after the effective date of the merger or
consolidation, shall, also notify such stockholders of the effective date of
the merger or consolidation. Any stockholder entitled to appraisal rights
may, within 20 days after the date of mailing of such notice, demand in
writing from the surviving or resulting corporation the appraisal of such
holder's shares. Such demand will be sufficient if it reasonably informs the
corporation of the identity of the stockholder and that the stockholder
intends thereby to demand the appraisal of such holder's shares. If such
notice did not notify stockholders of the effective date of the merger or
consolidation, either (i) each such constituent corporation shall send a
second notice before the effective date of the merger or consolidation
notifying each of the holders of any class or series of stock of such
constituent
F-2
<PAGE>
corporation that are entitled to appraisal rights of the effective date of
the merger or consolidation or (ii) the surviving or resulting corporation
shall send such a second notice to all such holders on or within 10 days
after such effective date; provided, however, that if such second notice is
sent more than 20 days following the sending of the first notice, such
second notice need only be sent to each stockholder who is entitled to
appraisal rights and who has demanded appraisal of such holder's shares in
accordance with this subsection. An affidavit of the secretary or assistant
secretary or of the transfer agent of the corporation that is required to
give either notice that such notice has been given shall, in the absence of
fraud, be prima facie evidence of the facts stated therein. For purposes of
determining the stockholders entitled to receive either notice, each
constituent corporation may fix, in advance, a record date that shall be not
more than 10 days prior to the date the notice is given, PROVIDED, THAT, if
the notice is given on or after the effective date of the merger or
consolidation, the record date shall be such effective date. If no record
date is fixed and the notice is given prior to the effective date, the
record date shall be the close of business on the day next preceding the day
on which the notice is given.
(e) Within 120 days after the effective date of the merger or consolidation,
the surviving or resulting corporation or any stockholder who has complied with
subsections (a) and (d) hereof and who is otherwise entitled to appraisal
rights, may file a petition in the Court of Chancery demanding a determination
of the value of the stock of all such stockholders. Notwithstanding the
foregoing, at any time within 60 days after the effective date of the merger or
consolidation, any stockholder shall have the right to withdraw such
stockholder's demand for appraisal and to accept the terms offered upon the
merger or consolidation. Within 120 days after the effective date of the merger
or consolidation, any stockholder who has complied with the requirements of
subsections (a) and (d) hereof, upon written request, shall be entitled to
receive from the corporation surviving the merger or resulting from the
consolidation a statement setting forth the aggregate number of shares not voted
in favor of the merger or consolidation and with respect to which demands for
appraisal have been received and the aggregate number of holders of such shares.
Such written statement shall be mailed to the stockholder within 10 days after
such stockholder's written request for such a statement is received by the
surviving or resulting corporation or within 10 days after expiration of the
period for delivery of demands for appraisal under subsection (d) hereof,
whichever is later.
(f) Upon the filing of any such petition by a stockholder, service of a copy
thereof shall be made upon the surviving or resulting corporation, which shall
within 20 days after such service file in the office of the Register in Chancery
in which the petition was filed a duly verified list containing the names and
addresses of all stockholders who have demanded payment for their shares and
with whom agreements as to the value of their shares have not been reached by
the surviving or resulting corporation. If the petition shall be filed by the
surviving or resulting corporation, the petition shall be accompanied by such a
duly verified list. The Register in Chancery, if so ordered by the Court, shall
give notice of the time and place fixed for the hearing of such petition by
registered or certified mail to the surviving or resulting corporation and to
the stockholders shown on the list at the addresses therein stated. Such notice
shall also be given by 1 or more publications at least 1 week before the day of
the hearing, in a newspaper of general circulation published in the City of
Wilmington, Delaware or such publication as the Court deems advisable. The forms
of the notices by mail and by publication shall be approved by the Court, and
the costs thereof shall be borne by the surviving or resulting corporation.
(g) At the hearing on such petition, the Court shall determine the
stockholders who have complied with this section and who have become entitled to
appraisal rights. The Court may require the stockholders who have demanded an
appraisal for their shares and who hold stock represented by certificates to
submit their certificates of stock to the Register in Chancery for notation
thereon of the pendency of the appraisal proceedings; and if any stockholder
fails to comply with such direction, the Court may dismiss the proceedings as to
such stockholder.
F-3
<PAGE>
(h) After determining the stockholders entitled to an appraisal, the Court
shall appraise the shares, determining their fair value exclusive of any element
of value arising from the accomplishment or expectation of the merger or
consolidation, together with a fair rate of interest, if any, to be paid upon
the amount determined to be the fair value. In determining such fair value, the
Court shall take into account all relevant factors. In determining the fair rate
of interest, the Court may consider all relevant factors, including the rate of
interest which the surviving or resulting corporation would have had to pay to
borrow money during the pendency of the proceeding. Upon application by the
surviving or resulting corporation or by any stockholder entitled to participate
in the appraisal proceeding, the Court may, in its discretion, permit discovery
or other pretrial proceedings and may proceed to trial upon the appraisal prior
to the final determination of the stockholder entitled to an appraisal. Any
stockholder whose name appears on the list filed by the surviving or resulting
corporation pursuant to subsection (f) of this section and who has submitted
such stockholder's certificates of stock to the Register in Chancery, if such is
required, may participate fully in all proceedings until it is finally
determined that such stockholder is not entitled to appraisal rights under this
section.
(i) The Court shall direct the payment of the fair value of the shares,
together with interest, if any, by the surviving or resulting corporation to the
stockholders entitled thereto. Interest may be simple or compound, as the Court
may direct. Payment shall be so made to each such stockholder, in the case of
holders of uncertificated stock forthwith, and the case of holders of shares
represented by certificates upon the surrender to the corporation of the
certificates representing such stock. The Court's decree may be enforced as
other decrees in the Court of Chancery may be enforced, whether such surviving
or resulting corporation be a corporation of this State or of any state.
(j) The costs of the proceeding may be determined by the Court and taxed
upon the parties as the Court deems equitable in the circumstances. Upon
application of a stockholder, the Court may order all or a portion of the
expenses incurred by any stockholder in connection with the appraisal
proceeding, including, without limitation, reasonable attorney's fees and the
fees and expenses of experts, to be charged pro rata against the value of all
the shares entitled to an appraisal.
(k) From and after the effective date of the merger or consolidation, no
stockholder who has demanded appraisal rights as provided in subsection (d) of
this section shall be entitled to vote such stock for any purpose or to receive
payment of dividends or other distributions on the stock (except dividends or
other distributions payable to stockholders of record at a date which is prior
to the effective date of the merger or consolidation); provided, however, that
if no petition for an appraisal shall be filed within the time provided in
subsection (e) of this section, or if such stockholder shall deliver to the
surviving or resulting corporation a written withdrawal of such stockholder's
demand for an appraisal and an acceptance of the merger or consolidation, either
within 60 days after the effective date of the merger or consolidation as
provided in subsection (e) of this section or thereafter with the written
approval of the corporation, then the right of such stockholder to an appraisal
shall cease. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no appraisal proceeding in the Court
of Chancery shall be dismissed as to any stockholder without the approval of the
Court, and such approval may be conditioned upon such terms as the Court deems
just.
(l) The shares of the surviving or resulting corporation to which the shares
of such objecting stockholders would have been converted had they assented to
the merger or consolidation shall have the status of authorized and unissued
shares of the surviving or resulting corporation.
F-4
<PAGE>
PART II
INFORMATION NOT REQUIRED IN PROSPECTUS
ITEM 20. INDEMNIFICATION OF DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS.
Article 151 of Vodafone's Articles of Association provides:
"Subject to the provisions of the Act, every Director or other officer or
Auditor of the Company shall be indemnified out of the assets of the
Company against all costs, charges, expenses, losses and liabilities
which he may sustain or incur in or about the actual or purported
execution of his office or otherwise in relation thereto."
Section 310 of the Companies Act 1985 (as amended by Section 137 of the
Companies Act 1989) provides as follows:
"310. PROVISIONS EXEMPTING OFFICERS AND AUDITORS FROM LIABILITY
(1) This section applies to any provision, whether contained in a company's
articles or in any contract with the company or otherwise, for exempting any
officer of the company or any person (whether an officer or not) employed by
the company as auditor from, or indemnifying him against, any liability
which by virtue of any rule of law would otherwise attach to him in respect
of any negligence, default, breach of duty or breach of trust of which he
may be guilty in relation to the company.
(2) Except as provided by the following subsection, any such provision is void.
(3) This section does not prevent a company
(a) from purchasing and maintaining for any such officer or auditor
insurance against any such liability, or
(b) from indemnifying any such officer or auditor against any liability
incurred by him
(i) in defending any proceedings (whether civil or criminal) in which
judgment is given in his favour or he is acquitted, or
(ii) in connection with any application under section 144(3) or (4)
(acquisition of shares by innocent nominee) or section 727 (general power
to grant relief in case of honest and reasonable conduct) in which relief
is granted to him by the court."
Section 727 of the Companies Act 1985 provides as follows:
"727. POWER OF COURT TO GRANT RELIEF IN CERTAIN CASES:
"(1) If in any proceedings for negligence, default, breach of duty or breach
of trust against an officer of a company or a person employed by a
company as auditor (whether he is or is not an officer of the company) it
appears to the court hearing the case that that officer or person is or
may be liable in respect of the negligence, default, breach of duty or
breach of trust, but that he has acted honestly and reasonably, and that
having regard to all the circumstances of the case (including those
connected with his appointment) he ought fairly to be excused for the
negligence, default, breach of duty or breach of trust, that court may
relieve him, either wholly or partly, from his liability on such terms as
it thinks fit.
(2) If any such officer or person as above-mentioned has reason to apprehend
that any claim will or might be made against him in respect of any
negligence, default, breach of duty or breach of trust, he may apply to
the court for relief; and the court on the application has the same power
to relieve him as under this section it would have had if it had been a
court before
II-1
<PAGE>
which proceedings against that person for negligence, default, breach of
duty or breach of trust had been brought.
(3) Where a case to which subsection (1) applies is being tried by a judge
with a jury, the judge, after hearing the evidence, may, if he is
satisfied that the defendant or defender ought in pursuance of that
subsection to be relieved either in whole or in part from the liability
sought to be enforced against him, withdraw the case in whole or in part
from the jury and forthwith direct judgment to be entered for the
defendant or defender on such terms as to costs or otherwise as the judge
may think proper."
Vodafone AirTouch intends to obtain directors' and officers' insurance
coverage, which, subject to policy terms and limitations will include coverage
to reimburse Vodafone AirTouch for amounts that it may be required or permitted
by law to pay directors or officers of Vodafone, AirTouch or the combined
company.
ITEM 21. EXHIBITS AND FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND SCHEDULES.
(a) The following Exhibits are filed herewith unless otherwise indicated:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NO. DESCRIPTION
- --------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C>
2(a) Amended and Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of April 16, 1999, between AirTouch
Communications, Inc. and AirTouch Merger Sub, Inc. (included as Appendix D to the proxy
statement/prospectus which is part of this Registration Statement).
2(b) Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of January 15, 1999, among Vodafone Group Public Limited Company,
AirTouch Communications, Inc. and Apollo Merger Sub, Inc. (included as Appendix A to the proxy
statement/prospectus which is part of this Registration Statement).
3(a) Memorandum and Articles of Association of Vodafone Group Public Limited Company (incorporated herein by
reference to an Exhibit to Amendment No. 1 to Form F-1 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
on October 6, 1988 (Reg. No. 33-24722).
3(b) Form of Memorandum and Articles of Association of Vodafone AirTouch Public Limited Company, incorporating
amendments proposed to be approved at the Vodafone Extraordinary General Meeting.
4(a) Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement, dated as of September 16, 1991, among Vodafone Group Public
Limited Company, The Bank of New York, as Depositary, and all Owners and Holders from time to time of
American Depositary Receipts issued thereunder (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit A of
Amendment No. 2 to the Registration Statement on Form F-6 filed with the Securities and Exchange
Commission on September 16, 1991 (Reg. No. 33-24723)).
4(b) Form of Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement, to be dated as of the effective date of the merger, among
Vodafone AirTouch Public Limited Company, The Bank of New York, as Depositary, and all Owners and
Beneficial Owners from time to time of American Depositary Receipts issued thereunder (incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit A of Vodafone's Registration Statement on Form F-6, filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission on April 22, 1999).
4(d) See Exhibit 3(b) for provisions of the Memorandum and Articles of Association of Vodafone AirTouch Public
Limited Company defining rights of holders of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary shares.
</TABLE>
II-2
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NO. DESCRIPTION
- --------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C>
5 Opinion of Stephen R. Scott, Company Secretary of Vodafone, regarding validity of securities being
registered.
8(a) Opinion of Sullivan & Cromwell regarding United States tax consequences of the merger.
8(b) Opinion of Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson regarding United States tax consequences of the
merger.
10(a) US$10,500,000,000 Term and Revolving Credit Facility Agreement, dated April 16, 1999, for Vodafone Group
Plc and AirTouch Communications, Inc., arranged by Bank of America International Limited, Banque
Nationale de Paris, Barclays Capital, Citibank, N.A., Deutsche Bank AG London, Goldman Sachs
International, Greenwich Natwest Limited, HSBC Investment Bank plc, ING Barings, National Australia Bank
Limited and Westdeutsche Landesbank Girozentrale with National Westminster Bank Plc as Agent and U.S.
Swingline Agent.
21 Principal subsidiary undertakings of the Registrant.
23(a) Consent of Deloitte & Touche.
23(b) Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.
23(c) Consent of Arthur Andersen LLP.
23(d) Consent of KPMG Deutsche Treuhand-Gesellschaft.
23(e) Consent of Arthur Andersen LLP.
23(f) Consent of Stephen R. Scott, Company Secretary of Vodafone (included in the opinion filed as Exhibit 5 to
this Registration Statement and incorporated herein by reference).
23(g) Consent of Sullivan & Cromwell (included in the opinion filed as Exhibit 8(a) to this Registration
Statement and incorporated herein by reference).
23(h) Consent of Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson (included in the opinion filed as Exhibit 8(b) to
this Registration Statement and incorporated herein by reference).
23(i) Consent of Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated.
23(j) Consent of Goldman Sachs International.
23(k) Consent of Sam Ginn.
23(l) Consent of Arun Sarin.
23(m) Consent of Mohan Gyani.
23(n) Consent of Michael J. Boskin.
23(o) Consent of Donald G. Fisher.
23(p) Consent of Paul Hazen.
23(q) Consent of Charles R. Schwab.
24 Powers of Attorney (included in the signature page of this Registration Statement).
99(a) Opinion of Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated (included as Appendix B to the proxy statement/prospectus
which is part of this Registration Statement).
</TABLE>
II-3
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
EXHIBIT
NO. DESCRIPTION
- --------- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C>
99(b) Opinion of Goldman Sachs International (included as Appendix C to the proxy statement/ prospectus which
is part of this Registration Statement).
99(c) Form of Proxy Card of AirTouch.
99(d) IRS Private Letter Ruling, dated April 12, 1999.
</TABLE>
(b) Financial Statement Schedules. Schedule II, "Valuation and Qualifying
Amounts," in Vodafone Group Public Limited Company. Annual Report on Form
20-F for the year ended March 31, 1998 is hereby incorporated by reference;
other schedules are omitted because they are either not required, are not
applicable or because equivalent information has been included in the
financial statements, the notes thereto or elsewhere herein.
(c) Reports, Opinions and Appraisals. Included as Appendix B and Appendix C to
the proxy statement/prospectus which is part of this Registration Statement.
ITEM 22. UNDERTAKINGS.
(a) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes:
(1) 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 arising 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. Notwithstanding the foregoing, any increase
or decrease in volume of securities offered (if the total dollar value of
securities offered would not exceed that which was registered) and any
deviation from the low or high end of the estimated maximum offering
range may be reflected in the form of prospectus filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission pursuant to Rule 424(b) if, in the
aggregate, the changes in volume and price represent no more than 20
percent change in the maximum aggregate offering price set forth in the
"Calculation of Registration Fee" table in the effective 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.
(2) That, for the purpose of determining any liability under the
Securities Act of 1933, each such post-effective amendment will be deemed to
be a new registration statement relating to the securities offered therein,
and the offering of such securities at that time will be deemed to be the
initial BONA FIDE offering thereof.
(3) 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.
(4) To file a post-effective amendment to the Registration Statement to
include any financial statements required by Rule 3-19 of Regulation S-X at
the start of any delayed offering or throughout a continuous offering.
(b) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes that, for purposes of
determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each filing of
the Registrant's annual report pursuant to Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934 that is incorporated by reference in
II-4
<PAGE>
the Registration Statement will be deemed to be a new registration statement
relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such
securities at that time will be deemed to be the initial BONA FIDE offering
thereof.
(c) (1) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes as follows: that
prior to any public reoffering of the securities registered hereunder
through use of a prospectus which is a part of this Registration Statement,
by any person or party who is deemed to be an underwriter within the meaning
of Rule 145(c), the issuer undertakes that such reoffering prospectus will
contain the information called for by the applicable registration form with
respect to reofferings by persons who may be deemed underwriters, in
addition to the information called for by the other items of the applicable
form.
(2) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes that every prospectus
(i) that is filed pursuant to paragraph (1) immediately preceding, or (ii)
that purports to meet the requirements of Section 10(a)(3) of the Act and is
used in connection with an offering of securities subject to Rule 415, will
be filed as a part of an amendment to the Registration Statement and will
not be used until such amendment is effective, and that, for purposes of
determining any liability under the Securities Act of 1933, each such
post-effective amendment will be deemed to be a new registration statement
relating to the securities offered therein, and the offering of such
securities at that time will be deemed to be the initial BONA FIDE offering
thereof.
(d) Insofar as indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities
Act of 1933 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.
(e) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes: (i) to respond to requests
for information that is incorporated by reference into the prospectus pursuant
to Items 4, 10(b), 11 or 13 of this Form, within one business day of receipt of
such request, and to send the incorporated documents by first class mail or
other equally prompt means; and (ii) to arrange or provide for a facility in the
U.S. for the purpose of responding to such requests. This includes information
contained in documents filed subsequent to the effective date of the
registration statement through the date of responding to the request.
(f) The undersigned registrant hereby undertakes to supply by means of a
post-effective amendment all information concerning a transaction, and the
company being acquired involved therein, that was not the subject of and
included in the registration statement when it became effective.
II-5
<PAGE>
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act the registrant has duly
caused this Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of Newbury, Berkshire,
England, on April 22, 1999.
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
VODAFONE GROUP PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY
BY: /S/ STEPHEN R. SCOTT
-----------------------------------------
Stephen R. Scott
COMPANY SECRETARY
</TABLE>
POWER OF ATTORNEY
Each of the undersigned hereby constitutes and appoints Kenneth J. Hydon and
Stephen R. Scott his true and lawful attorneys-in-fact, each with power of
substitution, in his name, place and stead, in any and all capacities, to sign
any or all amendments, including post-effective amendments, and supplements to
this Registration Statement, and to file the same, with all exhibits thereto and
other documents in connection therewith, with the Securities and Exchange
Commission, hereby ratifying and confirming all that said attorneys-in-fact, or
his substitute or substitutes, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue
hereof.
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, this
Registration Statement has been signed by the following persons in the following
capacities on April 22, 1999.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME TITLE
- ------------------------------ ---------------------------
<C> <S>
/s/ LORD MACLAURIN OF Chairman of the Board of
KNEBWORTH, DL Directors
- ------------------------------
Lord MacLaurin of Knebworth,
DL
/s/ CHRISTOPHER C. GENT Chief Executive
- ------------------------------ (Principal Executive
Christopher C. Gent Officer)
/s/ KENNETH J. HYDON Financial Director
- ------------------------------ (Principal Financial and
Kenneth J. Hydon Accounting Officer)
/s/ PETER R. BAMFORD Executive Director
- ------------------------------
Peter R. Bamford
/s/ JULIAN M. HORN-SMITH Executive Director
- ------------------------------
Julian M. Horn-Smith
/s/ PROFESSOR SIR ALEC Non-executive director
BROERS
- ------------------------------
Professor Sir Alec Broers
/s/ SIR DAVID SCHOLEY Non-executive director
- ------------------------------
Sir David Scholey
</TABLE>
II-6
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME TITLE
- ------------------------------ ---------------------------
<C> <S>
/s/ PENELOPE L. HUGHES Non-executive director
- ------------------------------
Penelope L. Hughes
/s/ JOHN GILDERSLEEVE Non-executive director
- ------------------------------
John Gildersleeve
/s/ GREGORY F. LAVELLE Authorized Representative
- ------------------------------ in the United States
Puglisi & Associates
</TABLE>
II-7
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT INDEX
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGINATION BY
SEQUENTIAL
EXHIBIT NUMBERING
NO. DESCRIPTION SYSTEM
- --------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -------------------
<S> <C> <C>
2(a) Amended and Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of April 16, 1999, between
AirTouch Communications, Inc. and AirTouch Merger Sub, Inc. (included as Appendix D to the
proxy statement/prospectus which is part of this Registration Statement).
2(b) Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of January 15, 1999, among Vodafone Group Public
Limited Company, AirTouch Communications, Inc. and Apollo Merger Sub, Inc. (included as
Appendix A to the proxy statement/prospectus which is part of this Registration
Statement).
3(a) Memorandum and Articles of Association of Vodafone Group Public Limited Company
(incorporated herein by reference to an Exhibit to Amendment No. 1 to Form F-1 filed with
the Securities and Exchange Commission on October 6, 1988 (Reg. No. 33-24722)).
3(b) Form of Memorandum and Articles of Association of Vodafone AirTouch Public Limited
Company, incorporating amendments proposed to be approved at the Vodafone Extraordinary
General Meeting.
4(a) Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement, dated as of September 16, 1991, among Vodafone
Group Public Limited Company, The Bank of New York, as Depositary, and all Owners and
Holders from time to time of American Depositary Receipts issued thereunder (incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit A of Amendment No. 2 to the Registration Statement on Form
F-6 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 16, 1991 (Reg. No.
33-24723)).
4(b) Form of Amended and Restated Deposit Agreement, to be dated as of the effective date of
the merger, among Vodafone AirTouch Public Limited Company, The Bank of New York, as
Depositary, and all Owners and Beneficial Owners from time to time of American Depositary
Receipts issued thereunder (incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit A of Vodafone's
Registration Statement on Form F-6, filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on
April 22, 1999).
4(d) See Exhibit 3(b) for provisions of the Memorandum and Articles of Association of Vodafone
AirTouch Public Limited Company defining rights of holders of Vodafone AirTouch ordinary
shares.
5 Opinion of Stephen R. Scott, Company Secretary of Vodafone, regarding validity of
securities being registered.
8(a) Opinion of Sullivan & Cromwell regarding United States tax consequences of the merger.
8(b) Opinion of Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson regarding United States tax
consequences of the merger.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGINATION BY
SEQUENTIAL
EXHIBIT NUMBERING
NO. DESCRIPTION SYSTEM
- --------- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ -------------------
<S> <C> <C>
10(a) US$10,500,000,000 Term and Revolving Credit Facility Agreement, dated April 16, 1999, for
Vodafone Group Plc and AirTouch Communications, Inc., arranged by Bank of America
International Limited, Banque Nationale de Paris, Barclays Capital, Citibank, N.A.,
Deutsche Bank AG London, Goldman Sachs International, Greenwich Natwest Limited, HSBC
Investment Bank plc, ING Barings, National Australia Bank Limited and Westdeutsche
Landesbank Girozentrale with National Westminster Bank Plc as Agent and U.S. Swingline
Agent.
21 Principal subsidiary undertakings of the Registrant.
23(a) Consent of Deloitte & Touche.
23(b) Consent of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.
23(c) Consent of Arthur Andersen LLP.
23(d) Consent of KPMG Deutsche Treuhand-Gesellschaft.
23(e) Consent of Arthur Andersen LLP.
23(f) Consent of Stephen R. Scott, Company Secretary of Vodafone (included in the opinion filed
as Exhibit 5 to this Registration Statement and incorporated herein by reference).
23(g) Consent of Sullivan & Cromwell (included in the opinion filed as Exhibit 8(a) to this
Registration Statement and incorporated herein by reference).
23(h) Consent of Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson (included in the opinion filed as
Exhibit 8(b) to this Registration Statement and incorporated herein by reference).
23(i) Consent of Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated
23(j) Consent of Goldman Sachs International
23(k) Consent of Sam Ginn.
23(l) Consent of Arun Sarin.
23(m) Consent of Mohan Gyani.
23(n) Consent of Michael J. Boskin.
23(o) Consent of Donald G. Fisher.
23(p) Consent of Paul Hazen.
23(q) Consent of Charles R. Schwab.
24 Powers of Attorney (included in the signature page of this Registration Statement).
99(a) Opinion of Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated (included as Appendix B to the proxy
statement/prospectus which is part of this Registration Statement).
99(b) Opinion of Goldman Sachs International (included as Appendix C to the proxy
statement/prospectus which is part of this Registration Statement).
99(c) Form of Proxy Card of AirTouch.
99(d) IRS Private Letter Ruling, dated April 12, 1999.
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
Exhibit 3(b)
Company Number: 1833679
Companies Act 1985
Public Company Limited by Shares
FORM OF
ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
OF
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY
lp
One Silk Street
London EC2Y 8HQ
Tel: 0171 456 2000
Ref: SMW/NYG
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Article No. Page No.
Preliminary Articles
Table A and other standard regulations do not apply 1
The meaning of words and phrases used in the Articles 2
Share Capital
Form of the Company's share capital 3
Fixed Rate Shares
Right of Fixed Rate Shares to profits 4
Right of Fixed Rate Shares to capital 5
Voting rights of Fixed Rate Shares 6
Varying the rights of Fixed Rate Shares 7
Changing Capital
The power to increase capital 8
Application of the Articles to new shares 9
The power to change capital 10
Fractions of shares 11
The power to reduce capital 12
Buying back shares 13
Shares
The special rights of the shares 14
The directors' power to deal with shares 15
The directors' authority to allot "relevant securities" 16
and "equity securities"
Power to pay commission and brokerage 17
Renunciations of allotted but unissued shares 18
No trusts or similar interests recognised 19
Shares in Uncertificated Form
Holding shares in uncertificated form and effect 20
of the CREST Regulations
Share Certificates
Certificates 21
Replacement share certificates 22
Calls on shares
The directors can make calls on shares 23
The liability for calls 24
Interest and expenses on unpaid calls 25
Sums which are payable when a share is allotted 26
are treated as a call
Calls can be for different amounts 27
Paying calls early 28
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<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Article No. Page No.
Forfeiting shares
Notice following non-payment of a call 29
Contents of the notice 30
Forfeiture if the notice is not complied with 31
Forfeiture will include unpaid dividends 32
Dealing with forfeited shares 33
Cancelling forfeiture 34
The position of shareholders after forfeiture 35
Liens on partly paid shares
The Company's lien on shares 36
Enforcing the lien by selling the shares 37
Using the proceeds of the sale 38
Evidence of forfeiture or enforcement of lien 39
Changing share rights
Changing the special rights of shares 40
More about the special rights of shares 41
Transferring shares
Share transfers 42
More about transfers of shares in certificated form 43
The Company can refuse to register certain transfers 44
Closing the register 45
Overseas branch registers 46
Persons automatically entitled to shares by law
When a shareholder dies 47
Registering personal representatives 48
A person who wants to be registered must give notice 49
Having another person registered 50
The rights of people automatically entitled to shares 51
by law
Shareholders who cannot be traced
Shareholder who cannot be traced 52
General Meetings
The Annual General Meeting 53
Extraordinary General Meetings 54
Calling an Extraordinary General Meeting 55
Notice of General Meetings 56
Proceedings at General Meetings
The Chairman of a General Meeting 57
Security, and other arrangements at General Meetings 58
Overflow meeting rooms 59
The quorum needed for General Meetings 60
The procedure if there is no quorum 61
Adjourning meetings 62
Amending Resolutions 63
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<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Article No. Page No.
Voting Procedures
How votes are taken 64
How a poll is taken 65
Where there cannot be a poll 66
A General Meeting continues after a poll is demanded 67
Timing of a poll 68
The chairman's casting vote 69
The effect of a declaration by the chairman 70
Voting Rights
The votes of shareholders 71
Shareholders who owe money to the Company 72
Suspension of rights on non-disclosure of interest 73
Votes of shareholders who are of unsound mind 74
The votes of joint holders 75
Proxies
Appointment of proxies 76
Completing proxy forms 77
Delivering proxy forms 78
Cancellation of proxy's authority 79
Authority of proxies 80
Representatives of companies 81
Challenging votes 82
Directors
The number of directors 83
Qualification to be a director 84
Directors' fees and expenses 85
Special pay 86
Directors' expenses 87
Directors' pensions and other benefits 88
Appointing directors to various posts 89
Changing Directors
Age limits 90
Retiring directors 91
Eligibility for re-election 92
Re-electing a director who is retiring 93
Election of two or more directors 94
People who can be directors 95
The power to fill vacancies and appoint extra directors 96
Removing and appointing directors by an ordinary 97
resolution
When directors are disqualified 98
Directors' Meetings
Directors' meetings 99
Who can call directors' meetings 100
How directors' meetings are called 101
Quorum 102
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<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Article No. Page No.
The Chairman of directors' meetings 103
Voting at directors' meetings 104
Directors can act even if there are vacancies 105
Directors' meetings by video conference and telephone 106
Resolutions in writing 107
The validity of directors' actions 108
Directors' Interests
Directors' interests in transactions with the Company 109
When directors can vote on things in which they are 110
interested
More about directors' interests 111
Directors' Committees
Delegating powers to committees 112
Committee procedure 113
Directors' Powers
The directors' management powers 114
Power to establish local boards 115
The power to appoint attorneys 116
Borrowing powers 117
Borrowing restrictions 118
Alternate Directors
Alternate directors 119
The Company Secretary
The Secretary and Deputy and Assistant Secretaries 120
The Seal
The Seal 121
Authenticating Documents
Establishing that documents are genuine 122
Reserves
Setting up reserves 123
Dividends
No dividends are payable except out of profits 124
Final dividends 125
Fixed and interim dividends 126
Dividends not in cash 127
Calculation and currency of dividends 128
Deducting amounts owing from dividends and other money 129
Payments to shareholders 130
Record dates for payments and other matters 131
Dividends which are not claimed 132
Waiver of dividends 133
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<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Article No. Page No.
Capitalising Reserves
Capitalising reserves 134
Scrip Dividends
Ordinary Shareholders can be offered the right to 135
receive extra shares instead of cash dividends
Accounts
Accounting and other records 136
Location and inspection of records 137
Sending copies of accounts and other documents 138
Auditors
Acts of auditors 139
Auditors at General Meetings 140
Notices
Serving and delivering notices and other documents 141
Notices to joint holders 142
Notices for shareholders with foreign addresses 143
When notices are served 144
Serving notices and documents on shareholders who have 145
died or are bankrupt
If documents are accidentally not sent 146
Minutes and Records
Minutes 147
Availability of records for inspection and notifying 148
the registrar of companies
Winding Up
Directors' powers to petition 149
Distribution of assets in kind 150
Destroying Documents
Destroying documents 151
Indemnity Insurance
Indemnity 152
Insurance 153
Share Warrants
Issue of Share Warrants 154
Directors can accept a certificate instead of a 155
Share Warrant
Requesting a Share Warrant 156
Replacing Share Warrants 157
Rights of the Bearer 158
Bearers of Share Warrants participating in securities 159
offers
Communications with Bearers of Share Warrants 160
Issuing shares to which the Share Warrant relates 161
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<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Article No. Page No.
ADA Depositary
ADR Depositary can appoint proxies 162
The ADR Depositary must keep a Proxy Register 163
Appointed Proxies can only attend shareholders' 164
meetings if properly appointed
Rights of Appointed Proxies 165
Sending information to an Appointed Proxy 166
The Company can pay dividends to an Appointed Proxy 167
The Proxy Register may be fixed at a certain date 168
The nature of an Appointed Proxy's interest 169
Validity of the appointment of Appointed Proxies 170
Glossary
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<PAGE>
Company Number 1833679
The Companies Act 1985
Company Limited by Shares
ARTICLES OF ASSOCIATION
Adopted by a Special Resolution passed on [Effective Date] 1999
of
VODAFONE AIRTOUCH PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY
PRELIMINARY ARTICLES
1 Table A and other standard regulations do not apply
Art 1
The regulations in Table A of the Companies Act 1948, and any similar
regulations in the Companies Acts do not apply to the Company.
2 The meaning of words and phrases used in the Articles
2.1 The following table gives the meaning of certain words and phrases as they
are used in these Articles. However, the meaning given in the table does
not apply if that is inconsistent with the context in which a word or
phrase appears. After the Articles there is a Glossary which explains
various words and phrases. The Glossary is not part of the Memorandum or
Articles, and it does not affect their meaning. Throughout the Articles,
those words and expressions explained in this Article 2.1 are printed in
bold and those explained in the Glossary are printed in italics.
Words and Phrases Meaning
Adjusted Total of Capital This is defined in Article 118.2.
and Reserves
ADR Depositary A custodian or other person or persons approved by
the directors who (a) holds shares in the Company
under arrangements where either the custodian or
some other person issues American Depositary
Receipts which evidence American Depositary Shares
representing shares in the Company; and/or (b) is
appointed by or on behalf of the Company to hold
Share Warrants.
American Depositary These represent shares in the Company and are
Shares evidenced by American Depositary Receipts.
American Depositary These represent American Depositary Shares either
Receipts physically or in the form of Direct Registration
Receipts.
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7
<PAGE>
Words and Phrases Meaning
Appointed Proxy This is defined in Article 162.1.
approved transfer This is defined in Article 73.9, for the purposes
of Article 73.
Articles The Company's Articles of Association, including
any changes made to them.
Bearer This is defined in Article 154.1.
class meeting This is defined in Article 40.1.
Common Seal Any seal which the Company may have under the
Companies Acts and which the Company may use to
execute documents.
Companies Act 1985 The Companies Act 1985, as amended by the
Companies Act 1989.
Companies Acts The Companies Act 1985, the CREST Regulations and
other legislation relating to companies and
affecting the Company (including any orders,
regulations or other subordinated legislation made
under them) in force from time to time.
company Includes any company, corporate body and any
corporation established anywhere in the world.
company representative This is defined in Article 81.1.
the Company Vodafone AirTouch Public Limited Company.
CREST Regulations The Uncertificated Securities Regulations 1995.
default shares This is defined in Article 73.1, for the purposes
of Article 73.
Direct Registration Receipt An American Depositary Receipt in uncertificated
form, the ownership of which is recorded in the
Direct Registration System.
Direct Registration System The system maintained by the ADR Depositary in
which the ADR Depositary records the ownership of
Direct Registration Receipts.
direction notice This is defined in Article 73.3 for the purposes
of Article 73.
elected shares This is defined in Article 135.8.
electronic mail Includes any electronic transmission in any form
through any medium (including transmissions by
fax).
equity securities The meaning of equity securities is given in
Section 94 Companies Act 1985.
equity shares Shares in the capital of the Company which are
regarded as equity share capital pursuant to
Section 744 Companies Act 1985.
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8
<PAGE>
Words and Phrases Meaning
Fixed Rate Shares The 7 per cent cumulative fixed rate shares of
(pound)1 each in the Company.
Group This is defined in Article 118.2, for the purposes
of Article 118.
London Stock Exchange London Stock Exchange Limited.
Memorandum The Memorandum of Association of the Company.
non equity securities Securities which are not equity securities.
operator CRESTCo Limited or any other operator of a
relevant system under the CREST Regulations.
Ordinary Shareholder A holder of the Company's Ordinary Shares.
Ordinary Shares Ordinary shares of US$0.10 each in the Company.
paid-up share or Includes a share or other security which is
other security treated ("credited") as paid up.
pay Includes any kind of reward or payment for
services.
prescribed period This is defined in Article 16.5, for the purposes
of Article 16.
recognised clearing house A clearing house granted recognition under the
Financial Services Act 1986.
recognised investment An investment exchange granted recognition under
exchange the Financial Services Act 1986.
Record Date This is defined in Article 168.1, for the purposes
of Article 168.
Register The Company's register of members.
Registered Office The Company's registered office.
Relevant Company This is defined in Article 153.1, for the purposes
of Article 153.
relevant securities The meaning of relevant securities is given in
Section 80 of the Companies Act 1985.
relevant system A relevant system under the CREST Regulations
whose operator allows shares or other securities
of the Company to be transferred using that
system.
relevant value This is defined in Article 135.4, for the purposes
of Article 135.
rights of any share The rights attached to a share when it is issued,
or afterwards.
rights issue This is defined in Article 16.5, for the purposes
of Article 16.
Secretary Any person appointed by the directors to do work
as the company secretary including any assistant
or deputy secretary.
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9
<PAGE>
Words and Phrases Meaning
securities offer This is defined in Article 159.3, for the purposes
of Article 159.
Securities Seal A seal used to stamp securities issued by the
Company in certificated form as evidence that the
Company has issued them.
Share Warrant A share warrant to bearer issued by the Company.
shareholder A holder of the Company's shares.
shareholders' meeting A meeting of shareholders including both a General
Meeting of the Company and a class meeting.
shares Shares which are in issue at the relevant time.
sterling The currency of the United Kingdom.
subsidiary A subsidiary as defined in Section 736 of the
Companies Act 1985.
subsidiary undertaking A subsidiary undertaking as defined in Section 258
of the Companies Act 1985.
takeover offer A takeover offer as defined in Section 428 of the
Companies Act 1985.
terms of a share The terms on which a share was issued.
Transfer Office The place where the Register is kept.
United Kingdom Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
US dollars The currency of the United States of America.
working day A day on which banks in the United Kingdom are
generally open for business, excluding Saturdays,
Sundays and public holidays.
2.2 References to a debenture include debenture stock and references to a
debenture holder include a debenture stockholder.
2.3 Where the Articles refer to a person who is automatically entitled to a
share by law, this includes a person who is entitled to the share as a
result of the death, or bankruptcy, of a shareholder.
2.4 Words which refer to a single number also refer to plural numbers, and the
other way around.
2.5 Words which refer to males also refer to females and to other persons.
2.6 References to a person or people include companies, unincorporated
associations and so on.
2.7 References to officers include directors, managers and the Secretary, but
not the Company's auditors.
2.8 References to the directors are to the board of directors unless the way
in which directors is used does not allow this meaning.
2.9 Any headings in these Articles are only included for convenience. They do
not affect the meaning of the Articles.
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10
<PAGE>
2.10 When an Act or other legislation or the Articles are referred to, the
version which is current at any particular time will apply.
2.11 Where the Articles give any power or authority to anybody, this power or
authority can be used on any number of occasions, unless the way in which
the word is used does not allow this meaning.
2.12 Any word which is defined in the Companies Acts (excluding any
modification to them by a further act or statutory instrument which is not
in force when these Articles are adopted) means the same in the Articles,
unless the Articles define it differently, or the way in which the word is
used is inconsistent with the definition given in the Companies Acts.
2.13 Where the Articles say that anything can be done by passing an ordinary
resolution, this can also be done by passing a special resolution or an
extraordinary resolution.
2.14 Where the Articles refer to changing the amount of shares this means doing
any or all of the following:
o subdividing the shares into other shares with a smaller
nominal value;
o consolidating the shares into other shares with a larger
nominal value; and
o dividing shares which have been consolidated into shares with
a larger nominal value than the original shares had.
2.15 Where the Articles refer to any document being made effective this means
being signed, sealed or executed in some other legally valid way.
2.16 Where the Articles refer to months or years, these are calendar months or
years.
2.17 Articles which apply to fully-paid shares can also apply to stock.
References in those Articles to share or shareholder include stock or
stockholder.
2.18 Where the Articles refer to shares in certificated form, this means that
ownership of the shares can be transferred using a written transfer
document (rather than in accordance with the CREST Regulations) and that a
share certificate is usually issued to the owner.
2.19 Where the Articles refer to shares in uncertificated form, this means that
ownership of the shares can be transferred in accordance with the CREST
Regulations without using a written transfer document and that no share
certificate is issued to the owner.
2.20 Where the Articles refer to a period of clear days, the period does not
include the date the notice is delivered, or treated as being delivered,
nor the date of the General Meeting or other relevant event.
SHARE CAPITAL
3 Form of the Company's share capital
Art 4
The Company's share capital at the date when these Articles are adopted is
(pound)50,000 and US$816,000,000. This is made up of 50,000 7 per cent.
cumulative fixed rate shares of (pound)1 each and 8,160,000,000 ordinary
shares of US$0.10 each.
FIXED RATE SHARES
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11
<PAGE>
4 Right of Fixed Rate Shares to profits
4.1 If the Company has profits which are available for distribution and the
directors resolve that these should be distributed, the holders of the
Fixed Rate Shares are entitled, before the holders of any other class of
shares, to be paid in respect of each financial year or other accounting
period of the Company a fixed cumulative preferential dividend
("preferential dividend") at the rate of 7 per cent. per annum on the
nominal value of the Fixed Rate Shares which is paid up or treated as paid
up.
4.2 Subject to Article 4.3 below, the preferential dividend will be paid
yearly, on 31 March in respect of each financial year ending on or before
that date. If this date is not a working day, the payment will be made on
the next working day.
4.3 When the Company has to calculate a dividend on the Fixed Rate Shares for
a period other than a calendar year ending on 31 March (being another
accounting period, the first dividend period arising for the Fixed Rate
Shares or otherwise), the daily dividend rate will be worked out by
dividing the yearly dividend rate by 365 days. This daily rate will then
be multiplied by the actual number of days which have passed in the
relevant period, but not including the date of payment, to give the amount
payable for that period.
4.4 Except as provided in this Article, the Fixed Rate Shares do not have any
other right to share in the Company's profits.
5 Right of Fixed Rate Shares to capital
5.1 If the Company is wound up (but in no other circumstances involving a
repayment of capital or distribution of assets to shareholders whether by
reduction of capital, redeeming or buying back shares or otherwise), the
holders of the Fixed Rate Shares will be entitled, before the holders of
any other class of shares to:
o repayment of the amount paid up or treated as paid up on the nominal
value of each Fixed Rate Share;
o the amount of any dividend which is due for payment on, or after,
the date the winding up commenced which is payable for a period
ending on or before that date. This applies even if the dividend has
not been declared or earned;
o any arrears of dividend on any Fixed Rate Shares held by them. This
applies even if the dividend has not been declared or earned; and
o a proportion of any dividend in respect of the financial year or
other accounting period which began before the winding up commenced
but ends after that date. The proportion will be the amount of the
dividend that would otherwise have been payable for the period which
ends on that date. This applies even if the dividend has not been
declared or earned.
5.2 If there is a winding up to which Article 5.1 applies, and there is not
enough to pay the amounts due on the Fixed Rate Shares, the holders of the
Fixed Rate Shares will share what is available in proportion to the
amounts to which they would otherwise be entitled. The holders of the
Fixed Rate Shares will be given preference over the holders of other
classes of shares which rank behind them in sharing in the Company's
assets.
5.3 Except as provided in this Article 5, the Fixed Rate Shares do not have
any other right to share in the Company's surplus assets.
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<PAGE>
6 Voting rights of Fixed Rate Shares
6.1 The holders of the Fixed Rate Shares are only entitled to receive notice
of General Meetings, or to attend, speak and vote at General Meetings, as
set out below.
o If a resolution is to be proposed at the General Meeting to wind up
the Company, they are entitled to receive notice of the General
Meeting and can attend, but are not entitled to speak or vote.
o If a resolution is to be proposed at the General Meeting which would
vary or abrogate the rights attached to the Fixed Rate Shares, they
are entitled to receive notice of the General Meeting and are
entitled to attend, speak and vote but only in respect of such
resolution or any motion to adjourn the General Meeting before such
resolution is voted on.
6.2 If the holders of the Fixed Rate Shares are entitled to vote at a General
Meeting, each holder present in person or by proxy (or, being a company,
by a company representative) has one vote on a show of hands and on a poll
every holder who is present in person or by proxy (or, being a company, by
a company representative) shall have one vote in respect of each fully
paid Fixed Rate Share.
7 Varying the rights of Fixed Rate Shares
The rights of the holders of the Fixed Rate Shares will be regarded as
being varied or abrogated if any resolution is passed for the reduction of
the amount of capital paid up on the Fixed Rate Shares but not for the
repayment of the Fixed Rate Shares at par.
Accordingly, this can only take place if:
o holders of at least three quarters in nominal value of the Fixed
Rate Shares agree in writing; or
o an extraordinary resolution is passed at a separate class meeting by
the holders of the Fixed Rate Shares approving the proposal,
in accordance with Article 40.
CHANGING CAPITAL
8 The power to increase capital
Art 44
The shareholders can increase the Company's share capital by passing an
ordinary resolution. The resolution must fix the:
o amount of the increase;
o nominal value of the new shares; and
o currency or currencies in which the nominal value of such shares is
to be expressed.
9 Application of the Articles to new shares
Art 45
The provisions of the Articles about allotment, payment of calls,
transfers, automatic entitlement by law, forfeiture, lien and all other
things apply to new shares under Article 8 in the same way as if they were
part of the Company's existing share capital.
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<PAGE>
10 The power to change capital
Art 47
The shareholders can pass ordinary resolutions to do any of the following:
Art 47(a)
o consolidate, or consolidate and then divide, all or any part of the
Company's share capital into new shares of a larger nominal value
than the existing shares;
Art 47(c)
o cancel any shares which have not been taken, or agreed to be taken,
by any person at the date of the resolution, and reduce the amount
of the Company's share capital by the amount of the cancelled
shares;
Art 47(b)
o divide some or all of the shares into shares which are of a smaller
nominal value than is fixed in the Memorandum. This is subject to
any restrictions under the Companies Acts. The resolution can
provide that, as between the shares resulting from such
sub-division, different rights and restrictions which the Company
can apply to new shares may apply to all or any of the different
divided shares.
11 Fractions of shares
Art 47(a)
11.1 If any shares are consolidated or divided, the directors have power to
deal with any fractions of shares which result or any other difficulty
that arises. If the directors decide to sell any shares representing
fractions, they must do so for the best price reasonably obtainable and
distribute the net proceeds of sale among shareholders in proportion to
their fractional entitlements in accordance with their rights and
interests. The directors can sell to any person (including the Company, if
the Companies Acts allow this) and can authorise any person to transfer
those shares to the buyer or in accordance with the buyer's instructions.
The buyer does not need to take any steps to see how any money he paid is
used. Nor will his ownership be affected if the sale was irregular or
invalid in any way.
11.2 So far as the Companies Acts allow, when shares are consolidated or
divided, the directors can treat a shareholder's shares which are held in
certificated form and in uncertificated form as separate shareholdings.
The directors can also arrange for any shares which result from a
consolidation or division and which represent rights to fractions of
shares to be entered in the Register as shares in certificated form where
this makes it easier to sell them.
12 The power to reduce capital
Art 47(d)
The Company's shareholders can pass a special resolution to reduce in any
way:
o the Company's share capital; or
o any capital redemption reserve, share premium account or other
undistributable reserve.
This is subject to any restrictions under the Companies Acts.
13 Buying back shares
Art 47(e)
The Company can buy back, or agree to buy back in the future, any shares
of any class (including redeemable shares) in accordance with the
Companies Acts. However, if the Company has other shares in issue which
are listed on the London Stock Exchange and which are convertible at any
time into the class of equity shares to be repurchased, the holders of the
convertible shares must first pass an extraordinary resolution approving
the buy-back at a separate class meeting. A resolution is not required,
however, if the terms on which the convertible shares were issued allow
the buy-back.
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<PAGE>
SHARES
14 The special rights of new shares
Art 46
14.1 If the Company issues new shares, the new shares can have any rights or
restrictions attached to them. The rights can take priority over the
rights of existing shares, or existing shares can take priority over them,
or the new shares and the existing shares can rank equally. These rights
and restrictions can apply to sharing in the Company's profits or assets.
Other rights and restrictions can also apply, for example to the right to
vote.
Art 46
14.2 The powers conferred by Article 14.1 are subject to the provisions of
Article 14.5.
Art 46
14.3 The rights and restrictions referred to in Article 14.1 can be decided by
an ordinary resolution passed by the shareholders. The directors can also
take these decisions if they do not conflict with any resolution passed by
the shareholders.
Art 46
14.4 If the Companies Acts allow this, the rights of any new shares can include
rights for the holder and/or the Company to have them redeemed.
Art 46
14.5 The ability to attach particular rights and restrictions to new shares may
be restricted by special rights previously given to holders of any
existing shares.
15 The directors' power to deal with shares
Art 6.1
15.1 The directors can decide how to deal with any shares which have not been
issued. The directors can:
Art 37
o allot them on any terms, which can include the right to transfer the
allotment to another person before any person has been entered on
the Register. This is known as the right to renounce the allotment
(see also Article 18);
o grant options to give people a right to acquire shares in the
future; or
o dispose of the shares in any other way.
15.2 The directors are free to decide with whom they deal, when they deal with
the shares, and the terms on which they deal.
15.3 For the purposes of Article 15.1, the Directors must comply with:
o the provisions of the Companies Acts relating to authority,
pre-emption rights and other matters; and
o any resolution of a General Meeting which is passed under the
Companies Acts.
16 The directors' authority to allot "relevant securities" and "equity
securities"
16.1 This Article regulates the authority of the directors to allot relevant
securities and their power to allot equity securities for cash.
Art 6.2
Art 6.4(iii)
16.2 The directors are authorised, generally and without conditions, under
Section 80 of the Companies Act 1985, to allot relevant securities. They
are authorised to allot them for any prescribed period. The maximum amount
of relevant securities which the directors can allot in each prescribed
period is the Section 80 Amount.
Art 6.3
16.3 Under the directors' general authority in Article 16.2, they have the
power to allot equity securities, entirely paid for in cash, free of the
restriction in Section 89(1) of the Companies Act
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15
<PAGE>
Art 6.3(i)
Art 6.3(ii)
1985. They have the power to allot them for any prescribed period. There
is no maximum amount of equity securities which the directors can allot
when the allotment is in connection with a rights issue. In all other
cases, the maximum amount of equity securities which the directors can
allot is the Section 89 Amount.
Art 6.4
16.4 During any prescribed period, the directors can make offers and enter into
agreements which would, or might, require shares or other securities to be
allotted after that period has ended.
16.5 For the purposes of this Article:
Art 6.4(i)
o rights issue means an offer of equity securities which is open for a
period decided on by the directors to the people who are registered
on a particular date (chosen by the directors) as holders of:
(i) Ordinary Shares, in proportion to their holdings of
Ordinary Shares; and
(ii) other classes of equity securities or non-equity
securities which give them the right to receive the
offer in accordance with their rights.
However, the directors can do the following things (and the issue
will still be treated as a rights issue for the purpose of this
Article if they do so):
o sell any fractions of equity securities to which people would
be entitled and keep the net proceeds for the Company's
benefit or make other appropriate arrangements to deal with
such fractions;
o make the rights issue subject to any limits or restrictions
which the directors think are necessary or appropriate to deal
with legal or practical problems under the laws of any
territory, or under the requirements of any recognised
regulatory body, or stock exchange, in any territory or as a
result of shares being represented by American Depositary
Shares; or
o treat a shareholder's holdings in certificated form and
uncertificated form as separate shareholdings.
Art 6.4(ii)
o prescribed period means in the first instance the period ending on
the date of the Annual General Meeting in 1999 or on 21 October
1999, whichever is the earlier. After this, the prescribed period
means a period of no more than five years fixed by the shareholders
by passing a resolution at a General Meeting. The shareholders can,
by passing further resolutions, renew or extend this power
(including the first prescribed period), for periods of no more than
five years each. Such resolutions can take the form of:
o an ordinary resolution fixing a period under Article 16.2; or
o a special resolution fixing a period under Article 16.3; or
o a special resolution fixing identical periods under Article
16.2 and under Article 16.3; or
o a special resolution fixing different periods under Article
16.2 and under Article 16.3.
Art 6.4
o The Section 80 Amount for the first prescribed period is that fixed
at the Annual General Meeting of the Company held on 21 July 1998,
being (pound)30,000,000. For any subsequent prescribed period the
Section 80 Amount is that stated in a relevant resolution passed by
the shareholders at a General Meeting.
o The Section 89 Amount for the first prescribed period is that fixed
at the Annual General Meeting of the Company held on 21 July 1998,
being (pound)7,713,968. For any subsequent
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prescribed period the Section 89 Amount is that stated in a relevant
special resolution passed by the shareholders at a General Meeting.
Art 6.4(v)
o In working out any maximum amounts of securities referred to in this
Article, the nominal value of rights to subscribe for shares, or to
convert any securities into shares, will be taken as the nominal
value of the shares which would be allotted if the subscription or
conversion takes place.
17 Power to pay commission and brokerage
Art 7
17.1 The Company can use all the powers given by the Companies Acts to pay
commission or brokerage to any person who:
o applies, or agrees to apply, for any new shares; or
o gets anybody else to apply, or agree to apply for, any new shares.
Art 7
17.2 The rate per cent. or amount of the commission paid or agreed to be paid
must be disclosed as required by the Companies Acts and must not exceed 10
per cent. of the price at which the shares in respect of which the
commission is paid are issued (or an equivalent amount).
Art 37
18 Renunciations of allotted but unissued shares
Where a share has been allotted to a person but that person has not yet
been entered on the Register, the directors can recognise a transfer
(called a renunciation) by that person of his right to the share in favour
of some other person. The ability to renounce allotments only applies if
the terms on which the share is allotted are consistent with renunciation.
The directors can impose terms and conditions regulating renunciation
rights and can allow renunciation rights to be participating securities
(as defined in the CREST Regulations) in their own right.
19 No trusts or similar interests recognised
Art 8
19.1 The Company will only be affected by, or recognise, a current and absolute
right to whole shares. The fact that any share, or any part of a share,
may not be owned outright by the registered owner is not of any concern to
the Company, for example if a share is held on any kind of trust.
Art 8
19.2 The only exception to what is said in Article 19.1 is for any right:
o which is expressly given by these Articles; or
o which the Company has a legal duty to recognise.
SHARES IN UNCERTIFICATED FORM
20 Holding shares in uncertificated form and effect of the CREST Regulations
20.1 Subject to the Articles and so far as the Companies Acts allow this, the
directors can decide that any class of shares can:
o be held in uncertificated form and that title to such shares can be
transferred using a relevant system; or
o no longer be held and transferred in uncertificated form.
20.2 These Articles do not apply to shares of any class which are held in
uncertificated form to the extent that the Articles are inconsistent with
the:
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o holding of shares of that class in uncertificated form;
o transfer of title to shares of that class by means of a
relevant system; or
o CREST Regulations.
SHARE CERTIFICATES
21 Certificates
Art 11
21.1 When a shareholder is first registered as the holder of any class of
shares in certificated form, he is entitled to receive, free of charge,
one certificate for all the shares in certificated form of that class
which he holds. If he holds shares of more than one class in certificated
form, he is entitled to receive a separate share certificate for each
class.
21.2 The Company must also observe any requirements of the CREST Regulations
when issuing share certificates. Where the Companies Acts allow, the
Company does not need to issue share certificates.
21.3 If a shareholder receives more shares in certificated form of any class he
is entitled, without charge, to another certificate for the additional
shares.
Art 11
Art 32
21.4 If a shareholder transfers part of his shares covered by a certificate, he
is entitled, free of charge, to a new certificate for the balance if the
balance is also held in certificated form. The old certificate will be
cancelled.
Art 11
21.5 The Company does not have to issue more than one certificate for any share
in certificated form, even if that share is held jointly.
Art 11
21.6 When the Company delivers a certificate to one joint holder of shares in
certificated form, this is treated as delivery to all of the joint
shareholders.
21.7 If requested in writing to do so, the Company can deliver a certificate to
a broker or agent who is acting for a person who is buying shares in
certificated form, or who is having shares transferred to him in
certificated form.
Art 10
21.8 The directors can decide how share certificates are made effective. For
example, they can be:
o signed by two directors or one director and the Secretary;
o sealed with the Common Seal or the Securities Seal (or in the case
of shares on a branch Register, an official seal for use in the
relevant territory); or
o printed, in any way, with a copy of the signature of those directors
and the Secretary. The copy can be made or produced mechanically,
electronically or in any other way the directors approve.
Art 10
Art 11
21.9 A share certificate must state the number and class of shares to which it
relates and the amount paid up on those shares. It cannot be for shares of
more than one class.
Art 12
21.10 If all the issued shares of the Company, or a particular class of shares,
are fully paid up and rank equally with each other for all purposes, none
of those shares will (unless the directors pass a resolution to the
contrary) have a distinguishing number as long as it remains fully paid up
and ranks equally for all purposes with all the shares of the same class
which are issued and fully paid up.
Art 9
21.11 The time limit for the Company to prepare a share certificate for shares
in certificated form is:
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o one month after the allotment of a new share;
o five working days after a valid transfer of fully-paid shares is
presented for registration; or
o two months after a valid transfer of partly-paid shares is presented
for registration.
Art 9
21.12 Article 21.11 only applies to the extent that the terms of issue of shares
do not provide otherwise.
21.13 Share certificates will also be prepared and sent earlier where the London
Stock Exchange requires it.
22 Replacement share certificates
22.1 If a shareholder has four or more share certificates for shares of the
same class which are in certificated form, he can ask the Company for
these to be cancelled and replaced by a single new certificate. The
Company must comply with this request, without making a charge for doing
so.
Art 11
22.2 A shareholder can ask the Company to cancel and replace a single share
certificate with two or more certificates, for the same total number of
shares. The Company, upon the payment by the shareholder of a reasonable
sum determined by the directors, must comply with this request.
Art 13
22.3 A shareholder can ask the Company for a new certificate if the original
is:
o damaged or defaced; or
o lost, stolen, or destroyed.
Art 13
22.4 If a certificate has been damaged or defaced, the Company can require
satisfactory evidence and for the certificate to be delivered to it before
issuing a replacement. If a certificate is lost, stolen or destroyed, the
Company can require satisfactory evidence, together with an indemnity,
before issuing a replacement. In each case the directors can impose such
other terms as they think fit.
Art 13
22.5 The directors can require the shareholder to pay the Company's exceptional
out-of-pocket expenses for issuing any share certificates under Article
22.3.
22.6 Any one joint shareholder can request replacement certificates under this
Article.
CALLS ON SHARES
23 The directors can make calls on shares
Art 15
The directors can call on shareholders to pay any money which has not yet
been paid to the Company for their shares. This includes both the nominal
value of the shares and any premium which may be payable. If the terms of
issue of the shares allow this, the directors can:
Art 16
o make calls as often, and whenever, they think fit;
o decide when and where the money is to be paid;
o decide that the money can be paid by instalments; or
o wholly or partly revoke or postpone any call.
A call is treated as having been made as soon as the directors pass a
resolution authorising it.
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24 The liability for calls
Art 16
Art 18
24.1 A shareholder who has received at least 14 days' notice giving details of
the amount called, the time (or times) and place for payment must pay the
call as required by the notice. Joint shareholders are liable jointly and
severally to pay any money called for in respect of their shares.
Art 16
24.2 A shareholder due to pay the amount called shall still have to pay the
call even if, after the call was made, he transfers the shares to which
the call related.
25 Interest and expenses on unpaid calls
Art 21
If a call is made and the money due remains unpaid, the shareholder is
liable to pay interest on the money and any expenses incurred by the
Company because of his failure to pay the call on time. The interest will
run from the day the money is due until it has actually been paid. The
yearly interest rate will be a reasonable rate fixed by the directors (or,
where they do not fix a reasonable rate, 10 per cent.). The directors can
decide not to charge any or all of such expenses and interest.
26 Sums which are payable when a share is allotted are treated as a call
Art 20
If the terms of a share require any money to be paid at the time the share
is allotted, or at any fixed date (whether in relation to the nominal
value of the shares or any premium which may apply), then the liability to
pay the money will be treated in the same way as a liability for a valid
call for money on shares which is due on the same date. If this money is
not paid, everything in the Articles relating to non-payment of calls
applies. This includes Articles which allow the Company to forfeit or sell
shares and to claim interest.
27 Calls can be for different amounts
Art 19
On an issue of shares, if the terms of such shares allow, the directors
can decide that allottees or the subsequent holders of such shares can be
called on to pay different amounts, or that they can be called on at
different times.
28 Paying calls early
Art 22
28.1 The directors can accept payment in advance of some or all of the money
due from a shareholder before he is called on to pay the money. The
directors can agree to pay interest on money paid in advance until it
would otherwise be due to the Company at a rate (up to a maximum yearly
interest rate of 10 per cent.) agreed between the directors and the
shareholder.
Art 22
28.2 The money which is paid in advance in this way shall not be included in
calculating the dividend payable on the shares in respect of which the
money paid in advance has been paid.
FORFEITING SHARES
29 Notice following non-payment of a call
Art 23
Articles 29 to 39 apply if a shareholder fails to pay the whole amount of
a call, or an instalment of a call, by the date on which it is due. The
directors can serve a notice on him any time after the date on which the
call or the instalment is due, if the whole amount immediately due has not
been paid.
30 Contents of the notice
A notice served under Article 29 must:
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Art 23
o demand payment of the amount immediately payable, plus any interest;
Art 24
o give a date by when the total must be paid, but this must be at least 14
days after the notice is served on the shareholder;
Art 24
o state where the payment(s) must be made; and
Art 24
o state that if the full amount demanded is not paid by the time and place
stated, the Company can forfeit the shares on which the call or instalment
was due.
31 Forfeiture if the notice is not complied with
Art 25
If a notice served under Article 29 is not complied with, the shares to
which it relates can be forfeited at any time while any amount (including
interest) is still outstanding. This is done by the directors passing a
resolution stating that the shares have been forfeited.
32 Forfeiture will include unpaid dividends
Art 25
All dividends which are due on (and other money payable in respect of) the
forfeited shares, but not yet paid, will also be forfeited.
33 Dealing with forfeited shares
Art 26
Art 28
33.1 The directors can sell, dispose of or re-allot any forfeited share on any
terms and in any way that they decide. The Company may keep the
consideration received from doing this. The directors can, if necessary,
authorise any person to transfer a forfeited share to any other person and
may cause such other person to be registered as the holder of the share.
Art 28
33.2 The new shareholder's ownership of the share will not be affected if the
steps taken to forfeit the share, or the sale or disposal of the share,
were invalid or irregular, or if anything that should have been done was
not done, and the new shareholder is not obliged to enquire as to how the
purchase money (if any) is used.
34 Cancelling forfeiture
Art 26
34.1 After a share has been forfeited, the directors can cancel the forfeiture.
But they can only do this before the share has been sold, re-allotted or
disposed of. This can be on any terms that they decide.
34.2 If a share has not been sold or disposed of after three years from the
date of forfeiture, the directors must cancel the share.
35 The position of shareholders after forfeiture
Art 27
35.1 A shareholder loses all rights in connection with forfeited shares. If the
shares are in certificated form, he must surrender any certificate for
those shares to the Company for cancellation. A person is still liable to
pay calls which have been made, but not paid, before the forfeiture of his
shares. He must also pay interest on the unpaid amount (at the rate of
interest which was payable on the unpaid amount before the forfeiture)
until it is paid. If no interest was payable before the forfeiture on the
unpaid amount, the directors can fix the rate of interest on the unpaid
amount, but it must not be more than 10 per cent. a year, until it is
paid.
Art 27
35.2 The shareholder continues to be liable for all claims and demands which
the Company could have made relating to the forfeited share. He is not
entitled to any credit for the value of the share when it was forfeited or
for money received by the Company under Article 33, unless the
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directors decide to allow credit for all or any of that value. The
directors may also decide to waive any payment due either completely or in
part.
LIENS ON PARTLY PAID SHARES
36 The Company's lien on shares
Art 29
The Company has a lien on all partly-paid shares. This lien has priority
over claims of others to the shares and extends to all dividends and other
money payable on the shares or in respect of them. This lien is for any
money owed to the Company for the shares. The directors can decide to give
up any lien which has arisen or that any share for a specified period of
time be entirely or partly exempt from this Article. They can also decide
to suspend any lien which would otherwise apply to particular shares.
Unless otherwise agreed, the registration of a transfer of any share over
which the Company has a lien shall operate as a waiver of that lien.
37 Enforcing the lien by selling the shares
Art 30
Art 31
Art 30
37.1 If the directors want to enforce the lien referred to in Article 36, they
can sell some or all of the shares in any way they decide. The directors
can authorise someone to transfer the shares sold. But they cannot sell
the shares until all of the following conditions are met:
o the money owed by the shareholder must be immediately payable;
o the directors must have given a written notice to the shareholder.
This notice must say how much is due. It must also demand that this
money is paid, and say that the shareholder's shares can be sold if
the money is not paid;
o the written notice must have been served on the shareholder, or on
any person who is automatically entitled to the shares by law; and
o the money has not been paid by at least 14 days after the notice has
been served.
Art 31
37.2 The new shareholder's ownership of the share will not be affected if the
sale or disposal of the share was invalid or irregular, or if anything
that should have been done was not done and is not obliged to enquire as
to how the purchase money (if any) is used.
38 Using the proceeds of the sale
Art 31
If the directors sell any shares under Article 37, the net proceeds will
first be used to pay off the amount which is then payable to the Company.
The directors will pay any money left over to the former shareholder, or
to any person who would otherwise be automatically entitled to the shares
by law provided that the Company's lien will also apply to any money left
over, to cover any money still due to the Company which is not yet
payable: the Company has the same rights over this money as it had over
the shares immediately before they were sold. If the shares are in
certificated form, the Company need not pay over anything left under this
Article until the certificate representing the shares sold has been
delivered to the Company for cancellation.
39 Evidence of forfeiture or enforcement of lien
Art 28
A director, or the Secretary, can make a statutory declaration declaring:
Art 31
o that he is a director or the Secretary of the Company;
o that a share has been properly forfeited or sold to satisfy a lien
under the Articles; and
o when the share was forfeited or sold.
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This will be conclusive evidence of these facts which cannot be disputed
as against all persons claiming to be entitled to the share.
CHANGING SHARE RIGHTS
40 Changing the special rights of shares
Art 14(A)
40.1 If the Company's share capital is split into different classes of share,
and if the Companies Acts allow this and unless the Articles or rights
attached to any class of share say otherwise, the special rights which are
attached to any of these classes of share can be varied or abrogated if
this is approved by an extraordinary resolution in accordance with
Articles 40 and 41. This must be passed at a separate meeting of the
holders of the relevant class of shares. This is called a class meeting.
Alternatively, the holders of at least three-quarters of the existing
shares of the relevant class (by nominal value) can give their consent in
writing.
Art 14(A)
40.2 The special rights of a class of shares can be varied or abrogated while
the Company is a going concern, or while the Company is being wound up, or
if winding up is being considered.
Art 14(A)
40.3 All the Articles relating to General Meetings apply, with any necessary
changes, to a class meeting, but with the following adjustments:
o At least two people who hold (or who act as proxies for) at least
one third of the total nominal value of the existing shares of the
class are a quorum. However, if this quorum is not present at an
adjourned class meeting, one person who holds shares of the class,
or his proxy, is a quorum, regardless of the number of shares he
holds.
o Anybody who is personally present, or who is represented by a proxy,
can demand a poll.
o On a poll, the holders of shares will have one vote for every share
of the class which they hold.
40.4 This Article also applies to the variation or abrogation of special rights
of shares forming part of a class. Each part of the class which is being
treated differently is viewed as a separate class in operating this
Article.
41 More about the special rights of shares
Art 14(B)
The special rights of shares or of any class of shares are not regarded as
varied or abrogated if:
o new shares are created, or issued, which rank equally with or behind
those shares or that class of shares in sharing in profits or assets
of the Company;
o the Company buys back its own shares.
But this does not apply if the terms of the shares or class of shares
expressly provide otherwise.
TRANSFERRING SHARES
42 Share transfers
42.1 Unless the Articles provide otherwise, any shareholder can transfer some
or all of his shares to another person.
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Art 32
42.2 Every transfer of shares in certificated form must be in writing, and
either in the usual standard form, or in any other form approved by the
directors.
42.3 Transfers of uncertificated shares are to be carried out using a relevant
system and must comply with the CREST Regulations.
43 More about transfers of shares in certificated form
Art 34(A)(i)
43.1 The transfer form for shares in certificated form must be delivered to the
Transfer Office (or any other place the directors may decide). The
directors may refuse to recognise a transfer unless the transfer form:
o has with it the share certificate for the shares to be transferred
and any other evidence which the directors ask for to prove that the
person wishing to make the transfer is entitled to do this;
o is properly stamped (for payment of stamp duty) where this is
required;
Art 34(A)(ii)
o is being used to transfer only one class of shares; and
Art 34(A)(iii)
o is in favour of not more than four joint holders.
43.2 However, if a transfer is by a recognised clearing house or its nominee or
by a recognised investment exchange, a share certificate is only needed if
a certificate has been issued for the shares in question.
Art 32
43.3 If the share being transferred is a fully paid share, a share transfer
form must be signed by the person making the transfer. If the transfer is
being made by a company, the share transfer form does not need to be under
that company's seal.
Art 32
43.4 If the share being transferred is not a fully paid-up share a share
transfer form must also be signed by the person to whom the share is being
transferred. If the transfer is being made to a company, the transfer form
does not need to be under that company's seal.
Art 32
43.5 The person making a transfer of shares will be treated as continuing to be
the shareholder until the name of the person to whom a share is being
transferred is put on the Register for that share.
Art 35
43.6 No fee is payable to the Company for transferring shares or registering
changes relating to the ownership of shares.
44 The Company can refuse to Register certain transfers
Art 33
44.1 The directors can refuse to register a transfer of any shares in
certificated form which are not fully paid-up. They do not have to give
any reasons for refusing. But, if any of those shares are listed on the
London Stock Exchange, the directors cannot refuse to register a transfer
if this would stop dealings in the shares from taking place on an open and
proper basis.
Art 34(B)
44.2 If the directors decide not to register a transfer of a share, they must
notify the person to whom such share was to be transferred. This must be
done no later than two months after the Company receives the transfer (in
the case of a share in certificated form).
45 Closing the Register
Art 36
The directors can decide to suspend the registration of transfers by
closing the Register. This can be for part of a day, a day, or more than a
day. Suspension periods can vary between different classes of shares. But
the Register cannot be closed for more than 30 days a year. In
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the case of shares in uncertificated form, the Register must not be closed
without the consent of the operator of a relevant system.
46 Overseas branch registers
The Company can use all the powers that the Companies Acts give to keep an
overseas branch register. The directors can make and change any
regulations they decide on relating to this register, as long as the
Companies Acts allow this.
PERSONS AUTOMATICALLY ENTITLED TO SHARES BY LAW
47 When a shareholder dies
Art 39
47.1 When a sole shareholder dies (or a shareholder who is the last survivor of
joint shareholders dies), his legal personal representatives will be the
only people whom the Company will recognise as being entitled to his
shares.
Art 39
47.2 If a shareholder who is a joint shareholder dies, the remaining joint
shareholder or shareholders will be the only people who the Company will
recognise as being entitled to his shares.
Art 39
47.3 This Article does not discharge the estate of any joint shareholder from
any liability.
48 Registering personal representatives
Art 40
A person who becomes automatically entitled to a share by law can either
be registered as the shareholder, or can select some other person to whom
the share is to be transferred. The person who is automatically entitled
by law must provide any evidence of his entitlement which is reasonably
required by the directors.
49 A person who wants to be registered must give notice
Art 41
If a person who is automatically entitled to shares by law wants to be
registered as a shareholder, he must deliver or send a notice to the
Company saying that he has made this decision. He must sign this notice,
and it must be in the form which the directors require. This notice will
be treated as a transfer form and all of the provisions of these Articles
about registering transfers of shares apply to it. The directors have the
same power to refuse to register the automatically entitled person as they
would have had in deciding whether to register a transfer by the person
who was previously entitled to the shares.
50 Having another person registered
Art 41
If a person who is automatically entitled to a share by law wants the
share to be transferred to another person, he must do the following:
o for a share in certificated form sign a transfer form to the person
he has selected; and
o for a share in uncertificated form transfer such share using a
relevant system.
The directors have the same power to refuse to register the person
selected as they would have had in deciding whether to register a transfer
by the person who was previously entitled to the shares.
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51 The rights of people automatically entitled to shares by law
Art 42
51.1 A person who is automatically entitled to a share by law is entitled to
any dividends or other money relating to the share, even though he is not
registered as the holder of that share. However, if the directors have
served a notice on any such person requesting him to choose between
registering himself or transferring the share, and such person does not
comply with the notice within 90 days, the directors can withhold the
dividend and other money until the notice has been properly complied with.
Art 42
51.2 Unless and until he is registered as a shareholder the person
automatically entitled to a share by law is not entitled:
o to receive notices of General Meetings, or to attend or vote at
these meetings; and
o (subject to Article 51.1) to any of the other rights and benefits of
being a shareholder,
unless the directors decide to allow this.
SHAREHOLDERS WHO CANNOT BE TRACED
52 Shareholder who cannot be traced
52.1 The Company can sell any shares at the best price reasonably obtainable
if:
Art 43(A)(i)
o during the previous 12 years, at least three dividends on the shares
have been payable and none has been claimed;
Art 43(A)(ii)
o after this 12-year period, the Company announces that it intends to
sell the shares by placing an advertisement in a United Kingdom
national newspaper and in a newspaper appearing in the area which
includes the address held by the Company for serving notices
relating to the shares;
Art 43(A)(iii)
o during this 12-year period, and for three months after the last
advertisement appears in the newspapers, the Company has received no
indication as to the whereabouts or existence of the shareholder or
any person who is automatically entitled to the shares by law; and
Art 43(A)(iv)
o where the shares are listed on the London Stock Exchange, the
Company has notified the London Stock Exchange that it intends to
sell the shares.
Art 43(B)
52.2 To sell any shares in this way, the Company can authorise any person to
transfer the shares. This transfer will be just as effective as if it had
been made by the registered holder of the shares, or by a person who is
automatically entitled to the shares by law. The ownership of the person
to whom the shares are transferred will not be affected even if the sale
is irregular or invalid in any way.
Art 43(B)
52.3 The net sale proceeds belong to the Company until claimed under this
Article, but it must pay these to the shareholder who could not be traced,
or to the person who is automatically entitled to the shares by law, if
that shareholder, or that other person, asks for it.
Art 43(B)
52.4 The Company must record the name of that shareholder, or the person who
was automatically entitled to the shares by law, as a creditor for this
money in its accounts. The money is not held on trust, and no interest is
payable on the money. The Company can keep any money which it has earned
on the net sale proceeds. The Company can use the money for its business,
or it can invest the money in any way that the directors decide. But the
money cannot be invested in the Company's shares, or in the shares of any
holding company of the Company.
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52.5 In the case of uncertificated shares, this Article is subject to any
restrictions which apply under the CREST Regulations.
GENERAL MEETINGS
53 The Annual General Meeting
Art 48
Art 52
Art 50
Except as provided in the Companies Acts, each year the Company must hold
an Annual General Meeting, in addition to any other General Meetings which
are held in the year. The notice calling the Annual General Meeting must
say that the meeting is the Annual General Meeting. There must not be a
gap of more than 15 months between one Annual General Meeting and the
next. The Annual General Meeting must be held in accordance with the
Companies Acts. The directors must decide when and where to hold the
Annual General Meeting.
54 Extraordinary General Meetings
Art 49
If a General Meeting is not an Annual General Meeting, it is called an
Extraordinary General Meeting.
55 Calling an Extraordinary General Meeting
Art 51
Art 50
The directors can decide to call an Extraordinary General Meeting at any
time. Extraordinary General Meetings must also be called promptly in
response to a requisition by shareholders under the Companies Acts. If an
Extraordinary General Meeting is not called in response to such a request
by shareholders, it can be called by the shareholders who requested the
Extraordinary General Meeting in accordance with the Companies Acts. Any
Extraordinary General Meeting requisitioned in this way by shareholders
shall be called in the same manner as nearly as possible to that in which
General Meetings are called by the directors. The directors must decide
when and where to hold an Extraordinary General Meeting.
56 Notice of General Meetings
Art 52
56.1 At least 21 clear days' notice in writing (or, where the Companies Acts
permit, by electronic mail) must be given for every Annual General Meeting
and for any other General Meeting where it is proposed to pass a special
resolution or to pass some other resolution of which special notice under
the Companies Acts has been given to the Company. For every other General
Meeting at least 14 clear days' notice in writing (or, where the Companies
Acts permit, by electronic mail) must be given.
Art 53
However, a shorter period of notice can be given:
o for an Annual General Meeting, if all the shareholders entitled to
attend and vote agree; or
o for an Extraordinary General Meeting, if a majority of the
shareholders entitled to attend and vote agree and those
shareholders hold at least 95 per cent. by nominal value of the
shares which can be voted at the meeting.
56.2 Any notice of General Meeting must state:
Art 52
o where the General Meeting is to be held;
o the date and time of the General Meeting;
o the general nature of the business of the General Meeting;
o if any resolution will be proposed as a special resolution or
extraordinary resolution; and
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Art 54
o in a reasonably prominent place that a shareholder entitled to
attend and vote can appoint one or more proxies (who need not be
shareholders) to attend, speak and vote instead of that shareholder.
Art 52
56.3 Notices of General Meetings must be given to the shareholders, except in
cases where the Articles or the rights attached to the shares state that
the holders are not entitled to receive them from the Company. Notice must
also be given to the Company's auditors. The day when the notice is served
(see Article 144), or is treated as served, and the day of the General
Meeting do not count towards the period of notice. In relation to any
class of shares some of which are in uncertificated form the Company can
decide that only people who are entered on the Register at the close of
business on a particular day are entitled to receive such a notice. That
day shall be a day chosen by the Company and falling not more than 21 days
before the notice is sent.
Art 55
56.4 Unless the Companies Act 1985 does not require it, the Company must, on
the requisition in writing of such number of shareholders as is specified
in the Companies Act 1985, send to shareholders:
o entitled to receive notice of the next Annual General Meeting notice
of any resolution which may properly be proposed and is intended to
be proposed at that meeting; and
o entitled to receive notice of any General Meeting any statement of
not more than one thousand words with respect to the matter referred
to in any proposed resolution or the business to be dealt with at
that meeting.
Notice of any such resolution shall be given, and any such statement shall
be circulated, to shareholders of the Company entitled to have notice of
the General Meeting sent to them. The cost of this, unless the Company
decides otherwise, must be borne by the requisitionists.
PROCEEDINGS AT GENERAL MEETINGS
57 The Chairman of a General Meeting
Art 61
57.1 The Chairman of the directors will be the chairman at every General
Meeting, if he is present and willing to take the chair.
Art 61
57.2 If the Company does not have a Chairman, or if the Chairman is not present
and willing to chair the General Meeting, a Deputy Chairman will chair the
meeting if he is present and willing to take the chair.
57.3 Where there is more than one deputy chairman at a General Meeting and
there is more than one present, and the chairman is not there, the deputy
chairman to take the chair will be the longest serving deputy chairman
present.
Art 61
57.4 If the Company does not have a Chairman or a Deputy Chairman, or if
neither the Chairman or any Deputy Chairman are present and willing to
chair the General Meeting, after waiting ten minutes from the time that a
meeting is due to start, the directors who are present will choose one of
themselves to act as chairman. If there is only one director present, he
will be chairman if he is willing.
Art 61
57.5 If there is no director present and willing to be chairman, then the
shareholders who are personally present at the General Meeting and
entitled to vote will decide which one of them is to be chairman.
57.6 To avoid any doubt, nothing in these Articles restricts or excludes any of
the powers or rights of a chairman of a meeting which are given by the
general law.
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58 Security, and other arrangements at General Meetings
Either the chairman of a General Meeting, or the Secretary, can take any
action he considers necessary for:
o the safety of people attending a General Meeting; or
o proper and orderly conduct at a General Meeting.
59 Overflow meeting rooms
The directors can arrange for any people who they consider cannot be
seated in the main meeting room, where the chairman will be, to attend and
take part in a General Meeting in an overflow room or rooms. Any overflow
room must have a live video and two way sound link with the main room for
the General Meeting, where the chairman will be. The video and sound link
must enable those in all the rooms to see and hear what is going on in the
other rooms. The notice of the General Meeting does not have to give
details of any arrangements under this Article. The directors can decide
on how to divide people between the main room and any overflow room. If
any overflow room is used, the General Meeting will be treated as being
held, and taking place, in the main room.
60 The quorum needed for General Meetings
Art 59
Before a General Meeting starts to conduct business, there must be a
quorum present. If there is not, the meeting cannot carry out any
business. Unless other Articles say otherwise, a quorum for all purposes
is two people who are entitled to vote. They can be personally present or
proxies for shareholders or duly authorised company representatives or a
combination of shareholders, duly authorised company representatives for
companies and proxies.
61 The procedure if there is no quorum
Art 60
61.1 This Article 61 applies if a quorum is not present either within 30
minutes of the time fixed for a General Meeting to start or within any
longer period (being no longer than an hour from the time fixed for the
General Meeting to start) on which the chairman may decide. If the General
Meeting was called by shareholders it is cancelled. Any other General
Meeting is adjourned to the same day in the next week (or if that day is a
public holiday, then the next day which is not a Saturday, Sunday or
public holiday) at the same time and place or to any other day and time
and place which the directors decide.
61.2 If a quorum is not present within 15 minutes of the time fixed for the
start of the adjourned meeting, the adjourned General Meeting shall be
cancelled.
62 Adjourning meetings
Art 62
62.1 The chairman of a General Meeting can adjourn a meeting which has a quorum
present, if this is agreed by those present at the General Meeting. This
can be to a time, date and place proposed by the chairman or may be an
indefinite adjournment. The chairman must adjourn the General Meeting if
the General Meeting directs him to. In these circumstances the General
Meeting will decide how long the adjournment will be, and where it will
adjourn to. If a General Meeting is adjourned indefinitely, the directors
will fix the time, date and place of the adjourned General Meeting.
Art 62
62.2 General Meetings can be adjourned more than once. But if a General Meeting
is adjourned for more than 30 days or indefinitely, at least seven days'
notice must be given of the adjourned General Meeting in the same way as
was required for the original General Meeting. If a General
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Meeting is adjourned for less than 30 days, there is no need to give
notice of the adjourned General Meeting, or about the business to be
considered there.
Art 62
62.3 An adjourned General Meeting can only deal with business that could have
been dealt with at the original General Meeting before it was adjourned.
63 Amending Resolutions
If the chairman of a General Meeting, acting in good faith, rules an
amendment to a resolution out of order, any error in that ruling will not
affect the validity of a vote on the original resolution.
VOTING PROCEDURES
64 How votes are taken
Art 63
64.1 If an ordinary resolution or any question is put to the vote at a General
Meeting, it will be decided by a show of hands of the shareholders present
in person or by proxy, unless a poll is demanded when, or before, the
result of the show of hands is declared by the chairman. A poll can be
demanded by:
Art 63
o the chairman of the General Meeting;
Art 63(a)
o at least two shareholders at the General Meeting (including
proxies of shareholders entitled to vote) who are entitled to
vote;
Art 63(b)
o one or more shareholders at the General Meeting who are
entitled to vote (including proxies of shareholders entitled
to vote) and who have, between them, at least 10 per cent of
the total votes of all shareholders who have the right to vote
at the General Meeting; or
Art 79
Art 63(c)
Art 79
o one or more shareholders who have shares which allow them to
vote at the General Meeting (including proxies of shareholders
entitled to vote), where the total amount which has been paid
up on their shares is at least 10 per cent of the total sum
paid up on all shares which give the right to vote at the
General Meeting.
64.2 All special resolutions and extraordinary resolutions shall only be
decided on a poll.
Art 68
64.3 A demand for a poll can be withdrawn if the chairman agrees to this. If a
poll is demanded, and this demand is then withdrawn, any declaration by
the chairman of the result of a vote on that resolution by a show of
hands, which was made before the poll was demanded, will stand.
65 How a poll is taken
Art 65
65.1 If a poll is demanded or held in the way allowed by the Articles, the
chairman of the General Meeting can decide where, when and how it will be
carried out. The result is treated as the decision of the General Meeting
where the poll was demanded, even if the poll is carried out after the
General Meeting.
Art 65
65.2 The chairman can:
o decide that a ballot, voting papers or tickets will be used;
o appoint one or more scrutineers (who need not be
shareholders);
o decide to adjourn the General Meeting to such day, time and
place as he decides for the result of the poll to be declared.
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<PAGE>
Art 75
65.3 If a poll is called, a shareholder can vote either personally or by his
proxy. If a shareholder votes on a poll, he does not have to use all of
his votes or cast all his votes in the same way.
66 Where there cannot be a poll
Notwithstanding any other provision in these Articles, a poll is not
allowed on a vote to elect a chairman of a General Meeting, nor is a poll
allowed on a vote to adjourn a General Meeting, unless the chairman of the
General Meeting demands a poll.
67 A General Meeting continues after a poll is demanded
Art 67
A demand for a poll on a particular matter does not stop a General Meeting
from continuing and dealing with matters other than the question on which
the poll was demanded.
68 Timing of a poll
Art 66
Art 68
A poll on a resolution to adjourn the General Meeting must be taken
immediately at the General Meeting. Any other poll can either be taken
immediately at the General Meeting or within 30 days from the date it was
demanded and at a time and place decided on by the chairman. No notice is
required for a poll which is not taken immediately if the time and place
at which it is to be taken are announced at the General Meeting at which
it is demanded. In any other case, at least seven clear days' notice must
be given specifying the time and place at which the poll is to be taken.
69 The chairman's casting vote
Art 69
If the votes are equal, either on a show of hands or on a poll, the
chairman of the General Meeting is entitled to a further, casting vote.
This is in addition to any other votes which the chairman may have as a
shareholder, or as a proxy.
70 The effect of a declaration by the chairman
Art 63
The following applies when there is a vote by a show of hands, and no poll
is demanded, or any demand for a poll is withdrawn. A corresponding entry
in the minute book is conclusive proof of the following declarations by
the chairman of the General Meeting:
o a resolution has been carried;
o a resolution has been carried unanimously;
o a resolution has been carried by a particular majority;
o a resolution has been lost; or
o a resolution has been lost by a particular majority.
There is no need to prove the validity, number, or proportion of votes
recorded for or against a resolution.
VOTING RIGHTS
71 The votes of shareholders
Art 70
At a General Meeting, on a show of hands every shareholder who is present
in person and every person present who has been duly appointed as a proxy
shall have one vote, provided that each such person is entitled to attend
and vote at that General Meeting. Where there is a poll, a shareholder who
is present in person (or by proxy) who is entitled to be present and to
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<PAGE>
vote has one vote for every share which he holds. This is subject to any special
rights or restrictions which are given to any class of shares by, or in
accordance with, the Articles.
72 Shareholders who owe money to the Company
Art 74(A)
Unless the Articles provide otherwise, the only people who are entitled to
attend and/or vote at General Meetings or to exercise any other right
conferred by being a shareholder in relation to General Meetings, are
shareholders who have paid the Company all calls, and all other sums,
relating to their shares which are due at the time of the General Meeting.
This applies both to attending the General Meeting personally and to
appointing a proxy.
73 Suspension of rights on non-disclosure of interest
Art 74(B)
73.1 This Article applies if any shareholder, or any person appearing to be
interested in shares held by that shareholder, has been properly served
with a notice under Section 212 of the Companies Act 1985, requiring
information about interests in shares, and has failed for a period of 14
days from the date of the notice to supply to the Company the information
required by that notice. Then (subject to the provisions of this Article
and unless the directors otherwise decide) the shareholder is not (for so
long as the failure continues) entitled to attend or vote either
personally or by proxy at a shareholders' meeting or to exercise any other
right in relation to a shareholders' meeting as holder of:
o the shares in relation to which the default occurred (called default
shares);
o any further shares which are issued in respect of default shares;
and
o any other shares held by the shareholder holding the default shares.
Art 74(B)
73.2 Any person who acquires shares subject to restrictions under Article 73.1
is subject to the same restrictions, unless:
o the transfer was an approved transfer (see Article 73.9); or
o the transfer was by a shareholder who was not himself in default in
supplying the information required by the notice under Article 73.1
and a certificate in accordance with Article 73.3 is provided.
Art 74(C)
73.3 Where the default shares represent 0.25 per cent or more of the existing
shares of a class, the directors can in their absolute discretion by
notice (a direction notice) to the shareholder direct that:
o any dividend or part of a dividend or other money which would
otherwise be payable on the default shares shall be retained by the
Company (without any liability to pay interest when that dividend or
money is finally paid to the shareholder);
o the shareholder will not be allowed to choose to receive shares in
place of dividends in accordance with Article 135; and/or
o subject to Article 73.4, no transfer of any of the shares held by
the shareholder will be registered unless:
o either the transfer is an approved transfer (see Article
73.9);
o or the shareholder is not himself in default as regards
supplying the information required; and (in this case)
o the transfer is of part only of his holding; and
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<PAGE>
o when presented for registration, the transfer is accompanied
by a certificate by the shareholder. This certificate must be
in a form satisfactory to the directors and state that after
due and careful enquiry the shareholder is satisfied that none
of the shares included in the transfer are default shares.
73.4 Any direction notice can treat shares of a shareholder in certificated and
uncertificated form as separate shareholdings and either apply only to
shares in certificated form or to shares in uncertificated form or apply
differently to shares in certificated and uncertificated form. In the case
of shares in uncertificated form the directors can only use their
discretion to prevent a transfer if this is allowed by the CREST
Regulations.
Art 74(D)
73.5 The Company must send a copy of the direction notice to each other person
who appears to be interested in the shares covered by the notice, but if
it fails to do so, this does not invalidate the direction notice.
Art 74(E)(i)
73.6 A direction notice has the effect which it states while the default
resulting in the notice continues. It then ceases to apply when the
directors decide (which they must do within one week of the default being
cured). The Company must give the shareholder immediate written notice of
the directors' decision.
Art 74(E)(ii)
73.7 A direction notice also ceases to apply to any shares which are
transferred by a shareholder in a transfer permitted under Article 73.3
even where a direction notice restricts transfers.
Art 74(F)(i)
73.8 For the purposes of this Article a person is treated as appearing to be
interested in any shares if the shareholder holding those shares has been
served with a notice under Section 212 of the Companies Act 1985 and:
o the shareholder has named that person as being so interested;
or
o (after taking into account the response of the shareholder to
the notice and any other relevant information) the Company
knows or reasonably believes that the person in question is or
may be interested in the shares.
73.9 For the purposes of this Article a transfer of shares is an approved
transfer if:
Art 70(F)(iii)
o it is a transfer of shares to an offeror under an acceptance
of a takeover offer; or
o the directors are satisfied that the transfer is made in
connection with a sale in good faith of the whole of the
beneficial ownership of the shares to a person unconnected
with the shareholder or with any person appearing to be
interested in the shares. This includes such a sale made
through the London Stock Exchange or any other stock exchange
outside the United Kingdom on which the Company's shares are
normally traded. For this purpose any associate (as that word
is defined in Section 435 of the Insolvency Act 1986) is
included amongst the people who are connected with the
shareholder or any person appearing to be interested in the
shares.
73.10 Where a person who has an interest in American Depositary Shares receives
a notice under this Article 73, that person is considered for the purposes
of this Article 73 to have an interest in the number of shares represented
by those American Depositary Shares which is specified in the notice and
not in the remainder of the shares held by the ADR Depositary.
73.11 Where the ADR Depositary receives a notice under this Article 73, the ADR
Depositary shall only be required to supply information relating to any
person who has an interest in the shares held by the ADR Depositary which
has been recorded by the ADR Depositary under the arrangements made with
the Company (including in the Proxy Register maintained under Article 163)
when it was appointed as the ADR Depositary.
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<PAGE>
Art 70(G)
73.12 This Article does not restrict in any way the provisions of the Companies
Act which apply to failures to comply with notices under Section 212 of
that Act.
74 Votes of shareholders who are of unsound mind
Art 73
74.1 This Article 74 applies where a court which claims jurisdiction to protect
people who are unable to manage their own affairs has made an order
detaining a shareholder or appointing a person to manage his property or
affairs.
Art 73
74.2 The receiver or other person appointed by the court order to act for the
shareholder can vote for the shareholder on a show of hands or on a poll
at General Meetings. However, this Article only applies if the receiver or
other person appointed by the court delivers to the Transfer Office (or
the place stated in the notice for the delivery of the proxy form) at
least 48 hours before the relevant General Meeting (or adjourned General
Meeting) such evidence as the directors may require of such person's
authority to act.
Art 73
74.3 If the receiver or other person appointed by the court fails to deliver
the appropriate evidence to the Transfer Office (or the place stated in
the proxy form) in accordance with Article 74.2, the right to vote shall
not be exercisable.
75 The votes of joint holders
Art 72
Where a share is held by joint shareholders any one joint shareholder can
vote at any General Meeting (either personally or by proxy) in respect of
such share as if he were the only shareholder. If more than one of the
joint shareholders votes (either personally or by proxy), the only vote
which will count is the vote of that one of them who is listed first on
the Register for the share.
PROXIES
76 Appointment of proxies
Art 76
76.1 Any shareholder may appoint another person, who need not be another
shareholder, as his proxy to act at a General Meeting on his behalf.
76.2 Proxies may also be appointed to act at General Meetings in the
circumstances, and in the manner, provided for in Articles 158.2, 162,
164, 165 and 168, and Articles 76 to 80 should be read subject to their
terms.
Art 76
76.3 A shareholder can appoint more than one proxy to attend on the same
occasion.
77 Completing proxy forms
77.1 A proxy form:
o must be in writing; and
Art 77
Art 79
o can be in any form which is commonly used, or in any other form
which the directors approve.
77.2 A proxy form given by:
Art 77
o an individual must be signed by the shareholder appointing the
proxy, or by an agent who has been properly appointed in writing; or
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<PAGE>
o a company must be sealed with the company's seal or signed by an
officer who is authorised to act on behalf of the company.
Art 79
Unless the contrary is shown, the directors are entitled to assume that
where a proxy form purports to have been signed by an officer on behalf of
a company that such officer was duly authorised by such company without
requiring any further evidence. Signatures need not be witnessed.
Art 80(A)
Art 80(B)
77.3 All notices convening General Meetings which are sent to shareholders
entitled to vote at the General Meeting, must, at the expense of the
Company, be accompanied by a proxy form. The proxy form must make
provision for two-way voting on all resolutions intended to be proposed,
other than resolutions which are merely procedural.
Art 80(C)
77.4 The accidental omission to send out a proxy form to a shareholder entitled
to it (or non receipt by him of the proxy form) will not invalidate any
resolution passed or proceedings at the General Meeting to which the proxy
form relates.
78 Delivering proxy forms
Art 78
78.1 A proxy form must be delivered to the place stated in the notice of the
General Meeting, or in the proxy form, or, if no place is stated, to the
Transfer Office or, if the directors decide to accept proxies by
electronic mail, in the way that they specify. It must be delivered at
least:
o 48 hours before a General Meeting, an adjourned General
Meeting or a poll taken on the same day as the meeting; or
Art 78
o 24 hours before a poll is taken, if the poll is not taken on
the same day as the General Meeting or adjourned General
Meeting.
78.2 To the extent that the Companies Acts permit, directors can decide to
accept proxies delivered by electronic mail, subject to any limitations,
restrictions or conditions they decide to apply and Articles 77.1 and 77.2
may be disapplied in relation to a proxy form delivered in this way.
Art 78
78.3 If a proxy form is signed by an agent, the power of attorney or other
authority relied on to sign it, or a copy which has been certified by a
notary, or certified in some other way specified by the directors, must
(if required by the Company) be delivered with the proxy form in
accordance with the instructions for delivery of proxy forms which are set
out in the notice of General Meeting or on the proxy form, unless the
power of attorney or other form of authority has already been registered
with the Company.
Art 78
78.4 If this Article 78 is not complied with, the proxy will not be able to act
for the person who appointed him.
Art 78
78.5 If a proxy form which relates to several General Meetings has been
properly delivered for one General Meeting or adjourned General Meeting,
it does not need to be delivered again for any later General Meeting which
the proxy form covers.
Art 79
78.6 Unless the proxy form says otherwise, it will be valid at an adjourned
General Meeting as well as for the original General Meeting to which it
relates.
78.7 A shareholder can attend and vote at a General Meeting on a show of hands
or on a poll even if he has appointed a proxy to attend and vote at that
meeting. However, if he votes in person on a resolution, then as regards
that resolution his appointment of a proxy will not be valid.
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79 Cancellation of proxy's authority
Art 81
79.1 Any vote cast in the way a proxy form authorises, or any demand for a poll
made by a proxy, will be valid even though:
o the shareholder who appointed the proxy has died or is of
unsound mind;
o the proxy form has been revoked; or
o the authority of the person who signed the proxy form for the
shareholder has been revoked.
79.2 However, this does not apply if written notice of the fact has been
received at the Transfer Office (or at such other place within the United
Kingdom which is specified for the deposit of proxy forms in accordance
with these Articles) before:
o the General Meeting or adjourned General Meeting starts; or
o the time fixed on a later day to take a poll,
when the vote is taken or poll demanded.
80 Authority of proxies
Art 79
80.1 A proxy is entitled to speak at a General Meeting.
Art 79
80.2 A proxy form gives the proxy the authority to demand a poll, or to join
others in demanding one. A demand for a poll made by a proxy for a
shareholder is treated in the same way as a demand by the shareholder
himself.
Art 79
80.3 Unless the proxy form provides otherwise, a proxy form entitles a proxy to
vote on any amendment to a resolution put to the General Meeting for which
it was given as the proxy thinks fit.
81 Representatives of companies
Art 71
81.1 A company which is a shareholder can authorise any person to act as its
representative at any General Meeting which it is entitled to attend. This
person is called a company representative. The directors of that company
must pass a resolution to appoint the company representative. If the
governing body of that company is not a board of directors, the resolution
can be passed by its governing body. A company representative can exercise
all the powers on behalf of the company which the company could exercise
if it were an individual shareholder present at the General Meeting in
person. This includes the power to vote on a show of hands when the
company representative is present in person at a General Meeting.
Art 81
81.2 Any vote cast by a company representative, and any demand he makes for a
poll, is valid even if he is, for any reason, no longer authorised to
represent the company. However, this does not apply if written notice of
the fact that he is no longer authorised has been received at the Transfer
Office (or at such other place within the United Kingdom which is
specified for the deposit of proxy forms in accordance with these
Articles) before the deadlines which apply to notice of cancellation of
proxies under Article 79.
82 Challenging votes
Art 64
Any objection to the right of any person to vote or the way in which the
votes have been counted must be made at the General Meeting (or adjourned
General Meeting) at which the vote is cast. If a vote is not disallowed at
the General Meeting, it is valid for all purposes. Any such objection
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<PAGE>
must be raised with the chairman of the General Meeting and will only
change the decision of the General Meeting on any resolution if the
chairman of the General Meeting decides that the vote cast may have
affected the decision of the General Meeting. His decision on matters
referred to him under this Article is final.
DIRECTORS
83 The number of directors
Art 82
There must be at least three directors (other than alternate directors),
but the shareholders can vary the number of directors by passing an
ordinary resolution.
84 Qualification to be a director
Art 83
A director need not be a shareholder, but a director who is not a
shareholder is entitled to attend and speak at shareholders' meetings.
85 Directors' fees and expenses
Art 85
85.1 Each of the directors shall be paid a fee for his services. The directors
can decide on the amount, timing and manner of payment of directors' fees,
but the total of the fees paid to all of the directors (excluding amounts
paid as special pay under Article 86, amounts paid as expenses under
Article 87 and any payments under Article 88) must not exceed:
o (pound)1 million a year; or
o any higher sum decided on by an ordinary resolution at a
General Meeting.
This remuneration shall accrue from day to day.
85.2 Unless an ordinary resolution is passed which provides otherwise, the fees
will be divided between some or all of the directors in the way that they
decide, If they fail to decide, the fees will be shared equally by the
directors, except that any director holding office as a director for only
part of the period covered by the fee is only entitled to a pro rata share
covering that broken period.
86 Special pay
86.1 The directors can award special pay if any director performs extra or
special services of any kind including:
Art 87
Art 108
o holding any executive post;
o acting as chairman or deputy chairman (whether or not this
office is executive or non-executive);
Art 87
o travelling or staying outside his main residence for any
business or purposes of the Company; and
o serving on any committee of the directors.
Art 87
88.2 Special pay can take the form of salary, commission or other benefits or
expenses or more than one of such forms or can be paid in some other way.
This is decided on by the directors and may be a fixed sum or percentage
of profits or otherwise. Such special pay can be either in addition to or
instead of any other fees, expenses and other benefits a director may be
entitled to receive.
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87 Directors' expenses
Art 86
In addition to any fees and expenses paid under Articles 85 and 86, the Company
will repay to a director all expenses properly incurred in:
o attending and returning from shareholders' meetings;
o attending and returning from directors' meetings;
o attending and returning from meetings of committees of the
directors; or
o in or with a view to the performance of their duties.
88 Directors' pensions and other benefits
Art 92(A)
88.1 The directors may pay or provide:
o pensions;
o annual payments;
o gratuities; or
o other allowances or benefits
to any people who are, or who were, directors who had a salary or place of
profit with the Company or with any company which is or has been a
subsidiary of the Company or a predecessor in business of the Company or
any such subsidiary. The directors can decide to extend these arrangements
to any member of his family (including a spouse and a former spouse) or to
any person who was or is dependent on him. The directors can also decide
to contribute (before as well as after he ceases to receive a salary or
occupy a place of profit) to any scheme or fund or to pay premiums to a
third party for these purposes.
88.2 No director or former director is accountable to the Company or its
shareholders for a benefit of any kind given in accordance with this
Article. The receipt of a benefit of any kind given in accordance with
this Article does not prevent a person from being or becoming a director.
89 Appointing directors to various posts
Art 107(A)
89.1 The directors can appoint any director as chairman, or a deputy chairman,
or to any executive position on which they decide. So far as the Companies
Acts allow, they can decide on how long these appointments will be for,
and on their terms. Subject to the terms of any contract with the Company,
they can also vary or end these appointments.
Art 107(B)
89.2 A director will automatically stop being chairman, deputy chairman,
managing director, deputy managing director, joint managing director or
assistant managing director if he is no longer a director. Other executive
appointments will only stop if the contract or resolution appointing the
director to a post says so. If a director's appointment ends because of
this Article, this does not prejudice any claim for breach of contract
against the Company which may otherwise apply.
Art 109
89.3 The directors can delegate to a director appointed to an executive post
any of the powers which they jointly have as directors. These powers can
be delegated on such terms and conditions as decided by the directors
either in parallel with, or in place of, the powers of the directors
acting as a board. The directors can change the basis on which these
powers are given or withdraw them from the executive.
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CHANGING DIRECTORS
90 Age limits
Art 97
90.1 Provisions of the Companies Acts which, together with these Articles,
would restrict the appointment of a director or require him to stop being
a director because he has reached a particular age do not apply to the
Company. This includes restrictions and requirements involving special
formalities once an age limit is reached.
Art 97
90.2 However, if it is proposed that a director who has reached the age of 70
be elected or re-elected in a notice convening a General Meeting, the
director's age must be stated in the notice (or document accompanying such
notice). However, the accidental failure to state this will not invalidate
the election or re-election of the director or any other proceedings at
the General Meeting.
91 Retiring directors
At each Annual General Meeting all those directors who were elected or
last re-elected at or before the Annual General Meeting held in the third
calendar year before the current year shall automatically retire.
92 Eligibility for re-election
Art 99
A retiring director is eligible for re-election.
93 Re-electing a director who is retiring
Art 100
93.1 At a General Meeting at which a director retires (whether at an Annual
General Meeting or otherwise), he may be re-elected (as long as the
director has not told the Company in writing that he does not wish to be
re-elected) if the shareholders pass an ordinary resolution to re-elect
him.
Art 98
93.2 A director retiring at a General Meeting retires at the end of that
meeting (or adjourned meeting). Where a retiring director is re-elected he
continues as a director without a break.
94 Election of two or more directors
Art 105
A single resolution for the election of two or more directors is void
unless the shareholders first approve the putting of a resolution in this
form by an earlier procedural vote taken at the General Meeting, with no
votes cast against.
95 People who can be directors
Art 101
95.1 Only the following people can be elected as directors at a General
Meeting:
o A director who is retiring at the General Meeting;
o A person who is recommended by the directors; and
o A person who has been proposed by a shareholder who is entitled to
attend and vote at the General Meeting.
Art 101
95.2 A shareholder proposing a director in accordance with Article 95.1 must
deliver to the Registered Office at least seven days before the General
Meeting, but not more than 42 days before the meeting (this period
includes the date on which the notice is given):
o a signed letter stating that he intends to propose another person
for election as director; and
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o written confirmation from the person to be proposed that he is
willing to be elected.
96 The power to fill vacancies and appoint extra directors
Art 103
96.1 The directors can appoint any person as an extra director or to fill a
casual vacancy. Any director appointed in this way automatically retires
at the next General Meeting after his appointment. At this General Meeting
he can be elected by the shareholders as a director.
Art 102
96.2 At a General Meeting the shareholders can also pass an ordinary resolution
to fill a casual vacancy or to appoint an extra director.
Art 103
96.3 Extra directors can only be appointed under this Article up to the limit
(if any) on the total number of directors under the Articles (or any
variation of the limit approved by the shareholders in accordance with the
Articles).
97 Removing and appointing directors by an ordinary resolution
Art 104
97.1 The shareholders can pass an ordinary resolution to remove a director,
even though his time in office has not ended. This applies despite
anything else in the Articles, or in any agreement between him and the
Company. Special notice of the ordinary resolution must be given to the
Company as required by the Companies Acts. But if a director is removed in
this way, it will not affect any claim which he may have for damages for
breach of any contract of service between him and the Company.
Art 104
97.2 Subject to Article 95, the shareholders can pass an ordinary resolution to
elect a person to replace a director who has been removed in the way
described in Article 97.1. If no director is appointed under this Article,
the vacancy can be filled under Article 96.
Art 104
97.3 Any person appointed under Article 97.2 will be treated, for the purpose
of determining the time at which he is to retire, as if he had become a
director on the day on which the director he replaced was last elected.
98 When directors are disqualified
Art 88
98.1 Any director automatically ceases to be a director in any of the following
circumstances if:
Art 88(d)
o a bankruptcy order is made against him;
Art 88(d)
o he makes any arrangement or composition with his creditors or
applies for an interim order under Section 253 of the Insolvency Act
1986 in connection with a voluntary arrangement under that Act;
Art 88(b)
o a court which claims jurisdiction to protect people who are unable
to manage their own affairs has made an order detaining him or
appointing a person to manage his property or affairs;
Art 88(c)
o he has missed directors' meetings for a continuous period of six
months, without permission from the directors, and the directors
pass a resolution removing him from office;
Art 88(e)
o he is prohibited from being a director under the Companies Acts or
any power conferred on the directors or shareholders under these
Articles;
Art 88(a)
o except where his contract of service prevents him from resigning,
he:
(i) delivers to the Company a written notice of resignation
signed by him or on his behalf; or
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<PAGE>
(ii) offers to resign and the directors pass a resolution
accepting the offer;
Art 88(f)
o all the other directors sign a notice requiring him to resign. He
will cease to be a director when the notice is served on him. Such a
notice can consist of several documents in the same form signed by
one or more directors.
Art 88(a)
98.2 When a director stops being a director for any reason, he will also
automatically cease to be a member of any committee. Removal from office
will be without prejudice to any claim which he or the Company might bring
in relation to any contract of service between him and the Company.
DIRECTORS' MEETINGS
99 Directors' meetings
Art 110(A)
The directors can decide when and where to have directors' meetings and
how they shall be conducted, and on the quorum. They can also adjourn
their meetings.
100 Who can call directors' meetings
Art 112
A directors' meeting can be called by any director. The Secretary must
also call a directors' meeting if a director asks him to.
101 How directors' meetings are called
Art 112
Art 90(A)(ii)
Directors' meetings are called by giving notice to all the directors. This
notice may be given to a director personally, by word of mouth, by notice
in writing (sent to him at his last known address) or by electronic mail
(sent to him at his last known electronic address or fax number). Any
director can waive notice of any directors' meeting, including one which
has already taken place.
102 Quorum
Art 110(A)
Art 114
102.1 If no other quorum is fixed by the directors, three directors are a
quorum. A directors' meeting at which a quorum is present can exercise all
the powers, authorities and discretions of the directors whether by or
under these Articles or exercisable by the directors generally.
Art 110(A)
102.2 A person who holds office only as an alternate director shall, if his
appointor is not present, be counted in the quorum.
102.3 A director who ceases to be a director at a directors' meeting can
continue to be present and act as a director and be counted in the quorum
until the end of that meeting if no other director objects and a quorum
would not otherwise be present.
103 The chairman of directors' meetings
Art 113
103.1 The directors can elect any director as chairman or as one or more deputy
chairmen for such periods as the directors decide. If the chairman is at a
directors' meeting, he will chair it. In his absence, the chair will be
taken by a deputy chairman, if one is present. If there is no chairman or
deputy chairman present within five minutes of the time when the
directors' meeting is due to start, the directors who are present can
choose which one of them will be the chairman of the directors' meeting.
Art 110(A)
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<PAGE>
103.2 Where there is more than one deputy chairman present at a meeting, and the
chairman is not there, the deputy chairman to take the chair will be the
longest serving deputy chairman present.
104 Voting at directors' meetings
Matters for decision which arise at a directors' meeting will be decided
by a majority vote. The chairman of the meeting will not have a second,
casting vote.
105 Directors can act even if there are vacancies
Art 111
105.1 The remaining directors can continue to act even if one or more of them
ceases to be a director. But if the number of directors falls below the
minimum which applies under Article 83 (including any variation of that
minimum approved by an ordinary resolution of shareholders), the remaining
director(s) can only:
o either appoint further directors to make up the shortfall; or
o call a General Meeting.
105.2 If no director or directors are willing or able to act under this Article,
any two shareholders can call a General Meeting to appoint extra
directors.
106 Directors' meetings by video conference and telephone
Art 110(B)
106.1 Any or all of the directors, or members of a committee, can take part in a
directors' meeting of the directors or of a committee by way of a video
conference or conference telephone, or similar equipment, designed to
allow everybody to take part in the directors' meeting.
106.2 Taking part in this way will be counted as being present at the directors'
meeting. A directors' meeting which takes place by way of video
conference, conference telephone or similar equipment will be treated as
taking place where most of the participants are. If there is no largest
group, directors' meetings will be treated as taking place where the
chairman is.
106.3 A directors' meeting held in the way described in Article 106.1 will be
valid as long as in one single place, or in places connected by way of
video conference, telephone conference, or similar equipment, a quorum is
present.
107 Resolutions in writing
Art 117
107.1 This Article applies to a written resolution which is signed by all of the
directors or members of a committee who would be entitled to vote on the
resolution at a directors' meeting or at a committee meeting. This kind of
resolution is just as valid and effective as a resolution passed by those
directors at a directors' meeting which is properly called and held.
Art 117
107.2 The resolution can be passed using several copies of a document, if each
copy is signed by one or more directors. These copies can be faxed copies.
Art 117
107.3 A written resolution signed by an alternate director does not need also to
be signed by his appointor. If the written resolution is signed by a
director who has appointed an alternate director, it does not need to be
signed by the alternate director acting in that capacity.
107.4 A written resolution will be valid at the time it is signed by the last
director.
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108 The validity of directors' actions
Art 116
Everything which is done by any directors' meeting, or by a committee of
the directors, or by a person acting as a director, or as a member of a
committee, will, in favour of anyone dealing with the Company in good
faith, be valid even though it is discovered later that any director, or
person acting as a director, was not properly appointed or elected. This
also applies if it is discovered later that anyone was disqualified from
being a director, or had ceased to be a director, or was not entitled to
vote. In any of these cases, in favour of anyone dealing with the Company
in good faith, anything done will be as valid as if there was no defect or
irregularity of the kind referred to in this Article.
DIRECTORS' INTERESTS
109 Directors' interests in transactions with the Company
109.1 If the Companies Acts allow, and if he has disclosed to the directors the
nature and extent of his interest, a director can, notwithstanding his
being a director:
Art 90(E)
(a) be a party to, or otherwise interested in, any existing or proposed
contract, transaction or arrangement with the Company or in which
the Company is otherwise interested;
Art 89
(b) be a director of, or occupy an office or place of profit (other than
as Auditor) in, and in any such case on terms (including pay) which
the directors can decide, or be employed by, or be a party to any
existing or proposed contract, transaction or arrangement with, or
otherwise be interested in, any company promoted by the Company or
in which the Company is otherwise interested; or
Art 90(F)
(c) alone (or any firm of which he is a partner, employee or member can)
act in a professional capacity for the Company (other than as
Auditor) and be paid for this.
Art 90(E)
109.2 A director will not, unless he agrees otherwise, have to hand over to the
Company any benefit which he derives from any of the interests described
above, and no contract, transaction or arrangement of the type described
above will be liable to be avoided on the grounds of any director's
interest or benefit.
Art 89
109.3 If the Company holds or owns shares in another company, the directors can
exercise votes attached to such shares or if any of the directors are
directors of such other company, they may vote as directors of that other
company in such manner as they think fit.
110 When directors can vote on things in which they are interested
Art 90(B)
110.1 Unless the Articles say otherwise, a director cannot vote on a resolution
about a contract or any other kind of proposal in which he has a material
interest. For this purpose, any interest of a person who is connected with
a director under Section 346 of the Companies Act 1985 will be treated as
if it were an interest of the director himself. However, the director can
vote if the interest is only an interest in the Company's shares,
debentures or other securities. If a director cannot vote on a resolution,
the director cannot be counted in the quorum when the directors vote on
that resolution.
110.2 However, if the Companies Acts permit, a director can (in the absence of a
material interest other than one which is listed below) vote, and be
counted in the quorum, on any resolution about any of the following
matters, namely:
Art 90(B)(i)
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<PAGE>
o giving him, or any other person, any guarantee, security or
indemnity for any money which he, or that other person, has lent at
the request of, or for the benefit of, the Company or any of its
subsidiary undertakings;
o giving him, or any other person, any security or an indemnity for
any liability which he, or that other person, has incurred at the
request, or for the benefit of, the Company or any of its subsidiary
undertakings;
Art 90(B)(ii)
o giving any guarantee, security or indemnity, to him, or any other
person, for a debt or obligation which is owed by the Company, or
any of its subsidiary undertakings, if the director has taken
responsibility by giving a guarantee, indemnity or security for some
or all of that debt or obligation;
Art 90(B)(iv)
o any proposal relating to an offer of any shares, debentures or other
securities, of or by the Company, or any of its subsidiary
undertakings, if the director takes part because he is a holder of
shares, debentures or other securities, or if he takes part in the
underwriting or sub-underwriting of the offer;
Art 90(B)(iii)
o any proposal involving any other company in which the director
(together with any person connected with the director under section
346 of the Companies Act 1985), has any kind of interest (including
holding any position in that company, or being a shareholder of that
company). But this exemption does not apply if he knows that he, and
any people connected with him, hold an interest in shares (as
defined for sections 198 to 211 of the Companies Act 1985)
representing 1 per cent or more of:
o any class of equity share capital of such company (or any
third company through which his interest is derived); or
o the voting rights in that company.
Any such interest of 1 per cent or more is treated for the purposes
of this Article as being material interest;
Art 90(B)(v)
o any proposal relating to an arrangement for the benefit of
employees of the Company, or any of its subsidiary
undertakings, which only gives him benefits which are also
generally given to the employees to whom the arrangement
relates; or
Art 90(B)(vi)
o any proposal relating to any insurance which the Company
proposes to buy or renew for the benefit of directors, or of a
group of people which includes directors.
Art 90(C)
110.3 A director cannot vote or be counted in the quorum on a resolution
relating to appointing that director to a position within the Company or
any company in which the Company has an interest or the terms and
termination of the appointment.
Art 90(C)
110.4 This Article applies if the directors are considering proposals about
appointing two or more directors to positions with the Company or any
company in which the Company has an interest. It also applies if the
directors are considering the terms or termination of such appointments.
These proposals can be split up to deal with each director separately. If
this is done, each director can vote and be included in the quorum for
each resolution, except the one concerning him. But he cannot vote if the
resolution relates to appointing him to a company in which the Company is
interested in if he has an interest of 1 per cent or more in that company
of the nature described in Article 110.2.
Art 90(D)
110.5 If any question comes up at a directors' meeting about whether a director
has a material interest, or whether he can vote or be counted in the
quorum, and the director does not agree to abstain from voting on the
issue or not be counted in the quorum, the question must be referred to
the
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<PAGE>
chairman of the directors' meeting (unless the chairman is the director in
question, in which case the other directors will choose another amongst
them to act as chairman in dealing with this question). The chairman's
ruling about any other director is final and conclusive, unless the nature
and extent of the director's interest has not been fairly disclosed to the
other directors.
111 More about directors' interests
For the purpose of Articles 109 and 110 and this Article, a director who
is in any way interested shall state the nature of his interest at a
directors' meeting in accordance with the Companies Acts, and:
Art 90(A)(i)
o a general notice given to the directors that a director has an
interest of the kind stated in the notice in any contract,
transaction or arrangement which involves any company or person
identified in the notice is treated as a standing disclosure that
the director has that interest;
Art 90(A)(ii)
o an interest of a person who is connected with the director under
section 346 of the Companies Act 1985 will be treated as an interest
of the director;
Art 90(A)(iii)
o interests (whether his or of any person connected with the director
under section 346 of the Companies Act 1985) which are unknown to
the director and which it is unreasonable to expect him to know
about are ignored.
DIRECTORS' COMMITTEES
112 Delegating powers to committees
Art 115
The directors can delegate any of their powers, or discretions, to
committees of one or more directors. This includes powers or discretions
relating to directors' pay or giving benefits to directors. If the
directors have delegated any power or discretion to a committee, any
references in these Articles to using that power or discretion include its
use by the committee. Any committee must comply with any regulations laid
down by the directors. These regulations can require or allow people who
are not directors to be co-opted onto the committee, and can give voting
rights to co-opted members. But:
o there must be more directors on a committee than co-opted members;
and
o a resolution of the committee is only effective if a majority of the
members of the committee present at the time of the resolution were
directors.
113 Committee procedure
Art 115
If a committee includes two or more people, the Articles which regulate
directors' meetings and their procedure will also apply to committee
meetings (if possible), unless these are inconsistent with any regulations
for the committee which have been laid down under Article 112.
DIRECTORS' POWERS
114 The directors' management powers
Art 91
114.1 The Company's business will be managed by the directors. They can use all
the Company's powers except where the Articles, or the Companies Acts,
provide that powers can only be used by the shareholders voting to do so
at a General Meeting. The general management powers under this Article are
not limited in any way by specific powers given to the directors by other
Articles.
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<PAGE>
114.2 The directors are, however, subject to:
Art 91
o the provisions of the Companies Acts;
o the requirements of the Memorandum or these Articles; and
o any other requirements (whether or not consistent with these
Articles) which are approved by the shareholders by passing a
special resolution at a General Meeting.
However, if any change is made to the Memorandum or these Articles or if
the shareholders approve a requirement relating to something which the
directors have already done which was within their powers, this will not
invalidate any prior act of the directors which would otherwise have been
valid.
115 The power to establish local boards
Art 93(A)
115.1 The directors can set up local committees, local boards or local agencies
to manage any of the Company's business. These can be either in or outside
the United Kingdom. The directors can appoint, remove and re-appoint
anybody (who need not be a director) to be:
o members of any local committee, board or agency; or
o managers or agents of the Company.
115.2 The directors can:
o decide on the pay and other benefits of people appointed under this
Article;
o delegate any of their authority, powers or discretions to:
(i) any local board or committee; or
(ii) any manager, or agent of the Company.
o allow local committees or boards, managers or agents to delegate to
another person;
o allow the members of local committees, boards or agencies to fill
any vacancies on them;
o allow the members of local committees, boards or agencies to
continue to act even though there are vacancies on them;
o remove any people they have appointed under this Article; and
o cancel or change an appointment or delegation made under this
Article, although this will not affect anybody who acts in good
faith who has not had any notice of any cancellation or variation.
Any appointment or delegation by the directors which is referred to in
this Article can be on any terms and conditions decided on by the
directors.
Art 93(C)
115.3 A person who is employed by, or occupies an office with, the Company may
be given a title which includes the words "Associate Director". This will
not imply that such person is a director of the Company or that he is
entitled to act as a director or be deemed to be a director for the
purposes of these Articles.
116 The power to appoint attorneys
Art 93(B)
116.1 The directors can appoint anyone (including the members of a group which
changes over time) as the Company's attorney or attorneys by granting a
power of attorney or by authorising him or
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<PAGE>
them in some other way. The attorney or attorneys can either be appointed
directly by the directors, or the directors can give someone else the
power to select attorneys. The directors can decide on the purposes,
powers, authorities and discretions of attorneys.
116.2 The directors can decide for how long a power of attorney will last and
they can apply any terms and conditions to it. The power of attorney can
also include any provisions which the directors decide on for the
protection and convenience of anybody dealing with the attorney. The power
of attorney can also allow the attorney to sub-delegate any or all of his
power, authority or discretion to any other person.
117 Borrowing powers
Art 95(A)
117 So far as the Companies Acts allow, the directors can exercise all the
powers of the Company to:
o borrow money;
o issue (subject to the provisions of the Companies Acts regarding
authority to allot debentures convertible into shares) debentures
and other securities; and
o give any form of:
o guarantee; and
o security, either outright or as collateral and over all or any
of the Company's undertaking, property and uncalled capital,
for any debt, liability or obligation of the Company or of any third
party.
118 Borrowing restrictions
Art 95(B)
118.1 The directors must:
o limit the Borrowings of the Company and
o exercise all voting and other rights or powers of control
exercisable by the Company in relation to its subsidiary
undertakings
to ensure that the total amount of all Borrowings by the Group outstanding
at any time will not exceed:
o for the period from the date of the adoption of these Articles to
(and including) the date of the approval by the directors of the
Group's audited financial statements for the year ending 31 March
2000 the greater of:
o 1.5 times the Adjusted Total of Capital and Reserves at such
time; or
o (pound)15 billion (or its equivalent in any other currency or
currencies) at such time; and
o at any time after the date of the approval by the directors of the
Group's audited financial statements for the year ending 31 March
2000, 1.5 times the Adjusted Total of Capital and Reserves at such
time.
This limitation on Borrowings will only affect subsidiary undertakings to
the extent that the directors can restrict the borrowings of the
subsidiary undertakings by exercising the rights or powers of control
which the Company has over its subsidiary undertakings. The Company may
consent in advance to exceeding the borrowing limit by passing an ordinary
resolution at a General Meeting.
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<PAGE>
118.2 In this Article:
Group means the Company and its subsidiary undertakings for the time
being;
Adjusted Total of Capital and Reserves means the aggregate of the share
capital and reserves as shown in the latest audited consolidated balance
sheet of the Group (including the amount paid up or credited as paid up on
the issued share capital of the Company, the share premium account,
capital redemption reserve, profit and loss account and other reserves
included within the Group's equity shareholders' funds) (the "Reserves")
but:
o adjusted as appropriate in respect of any variation to the paid up
share capital or reserves since the date of the latest audited
consolidated balance sheet as recorded within the monthly management
accounting records of the Group prepared in accordance with the
accounting bases and principles applied in the preparation of its
latest audited consolidated balance sheet;
o adding any amount which has been deducted at any time from the
Reserves of the Group for goodwill arising on consolidation either
by direct charge to Reserves or by charge to the Group's
consolidated profit and loss account; and
o making such other adjustments (if any) as the auditors of the
Company consider appropriate.
Borrowings means the aggregate amount of all liabilities and obligations
of the Group which in accordance with the accounting bases and principles
of the Group are treated as borrowings in the latest audited consolidated
balance sheet of the Group but:
o adjusted as appropriate in respect of any variation to borrowings
since the date of the latest audited consolidated balance sheet as
recorded within the monthly management accounting records of the
Group prepared in accordance with the accounting bases and
principles applied in its latest audited consolidated balance sheet;
o excluding any borrowings under finance or structured tax lease
arrangements to the extent matched as part of those arrangements by
deposits of cash or cash equivalent investments which are treated by
the creditor concerned as available to reduce its net exposure; and
o making such other adjustments (if any) as the auditors of the
Company consider appropriate.
118.3 The determination of the Company's auditors as to the amount of the
Adjusted Total of Capital and Reserves and the total amount of Borrowings
at any time shall be conclusive and binding on all concerned and for the
purposes of their computation the Company's auditors may at their
discretion make such further or other adjustments (if any) or
determinations as they think fit. Nevertheless the directors may act in
reliance on a bona fide estimate of the amount of the Adjusted Total of
Capital and Reserves and the total amount of Borrowings at any time and if
in consequence the borrowing limit is inadvertently exceeded an amount of
borrowings equal to the excess may be disregarded until the expiration of
three months after the date on which by reason of a determination of the
Company's auditors or otherwise the directors became aware that such a
situation has or may have arisen.
Art 95(C)
118.4 No lender or other person dealing with the Group need be concerned whether
the borrowing limit is observed. No debt incurred or security given in
breach of the borrowing limit will be invalid or ineffective unless the
lender or the recipient of the security had express notice at the time
when the debt was incurred or security given, that the limit had been or
would as a result be breached.
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ALTERNATE DIRECTORS
119 Alternate directors
Art 84
119.1 Any director may appoint any person (including another director) to act in
his place (such person is called an alternate director). Such appointment
requires the approval of the directors, unless the proposed alternate
director is another director. A director appoints an alternate director by
delivering a signed appointment (or in any other manner which has been
approved by the directors) to the Registered Office. An alternate director
need not be a shareholder.
Art 84
119.2 The appointment of an alternate director ends if the director appointing
him ceases to be a director, unless that director retires at a General
Meeting at which he is re-elected under Article 93.1. A director can also
remove his alternate by delivering a signed notice (or doing something
else which has been approved by the directors) delivered to the Registered
Office. An alternate director can also be removed as an alternate by a
resolution of the directors.
Art 84
119.3 An alternate director is entitled to receive notices of directors'
meetings once he has given the Company an address, electronic address or
fax number to which notices may be served on him. He is entitled to attend
and vote as a director at any such meeting at which the director
appointing him is not personally present and generally at such meeting to
perform all functions of the director appointing him as a director. If he
is himself a director or attends any such meeting as an alternate for more
than one director, he will have one vote for each director for whom he
acts as an alternate, in addition to his own vote as a director. However,
he may not be counted more than once for the purposes of the quorum. If
his appointor is temporarily unable to act through ill health or
disability his signature to any resolution in writing of the directors is
as effective as the signature of his appointor.
119.4 If the directors decide to allow this, Article 119.3 also applies in a
similar fashion to any meeting of a committee of which his appointor is a
member.
119.5 An alternate director shall be an officer of the Company and shall alone
be responsible to the Company for his own actions and mistakes. Except as
said in this Article 119, an alternate director:
o does not have power to act as a director;
Art 84
o is not considered to be a director for the purposes of the Articles,
o is not considered to be the agent of his appointor; and
Art 84
o cannot appoint an alternate director.
Art 84
119.6 Subject to the Companies Acts, an alternate director is entitled to
contract and be interested in and benefit from contracts or arrangements
or transactions and to be repaid expenses and to be indemnified to the
same extent as if he were a director. However, he is not entitled to
receive from the Company as alternate director any pay, except only such
part (if any) of the pay otherwise payable to his appointor as such
appointor may direct the Company in writing to pay to his alternate.
THE SECRETARY
120 The Secretary and Deputy and Assistant Secretaries
Art 122(A)
120.1 The Secretary is appointed by the directors. The directors decide on the
terms and period of his appointment so long as allowed to do so by the
Companies Acts. The directors can also remove
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the Secretary, but this does not affect any claim for damages against the
Company for breach of any contract between him and the Company.
Art 122(B)
120.2 The directors can also appoint one or more people to be deputy or
assistant secretary. Anything which the Companies Acts allow to be done by
or to the Secretary can, if there is no Secretary, or he is for any reason
not capable of doing what is required of him, also be done by or to any
deputy or assistant secretary. If there is no deputy or assistant
secretary capable of acting, the directors can appoint any officer to do
what would be required of the deputy or assistant secretary.
Art 122(B)
120.3 Anything which the Companies Acts allow to be done by or to a director and
the Secretary, cannot be done by or to one person acting as both a
director and a Secretary.
THE SEAL
121 The Seal
Art 123(A)
121.1 The directors are responsible for arranging for the Common Seal and any
Securities Seal to be kept safely. The Common Seal and any Securities Seal
can only be used with the authority of the directors or of a committee
authorised by the directors to use it. The Securities Seal can be used
only for sealing securities issued by the Company in certificated form and
sealing documents creating or evidencing securities issued by the Company.
Art 123(A)
121.2 Subject to the provisions of these Articles which relate to share
certificates, every document which is sealed using the Common Seal must be
signed personally by:
o one director and the Secretary; or
o two directors; or
o any other persons who are authorised to do so by the directors.
121.3 Where a signature is required to witness the Common Seal, the directors
may decide that the individual need not sign the document personally but
that his signature may be printed on it mechanically, electronically or in
any other way the directors approve.
121.4 Securities and documents which have the Securities Seal stamped on them do
not need to be signed unless the directors or the Companies Acts require
this.
Art 94
121.5 The directors can use all the powers given by the Companies Acts relating
to official seals for use abroad.
Art 123(B)
121.6 Certificates for debentures or other securities of the Company may be
printed in any way and may be sealed and/or signed for in any manner
allowed by these Articles.
121.7 As long as it is allowed by the Companies Acts, any document signed by one
director and the Secretary or by two directors and expressed to be entered
into by the Company shall have the same effect as if it had been made
effective by using the Common Seal. However no document which states that
it is intended to have effect as a deed shall be signed in this way
without the authority of the directors or of a committee authorised by the
directors to give such authority.
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AUTHENTICATING DOCUMENTS
122 Establishing that documents are genuine
Art 118
122.1 Any director, or the Secretary, has power to identify as genuine any of
the following and to certify copies or extracts from them as true copies
or extracts:
o any documents relating to the Company's constitution;
o any resolutions passed by the shareholders or any class of
shareholders, or by the directors or by a committee of the
directors; and
o any books, documents, records or accounts which relate to the
Company's business.
The directors can also delegate this power to other people.
Art 118
122.2 When any books, documents, records or accounts are not kept at the
Registered Office, the officer of the Company who has custody of them is
treated as a person who has been authorised by the directors to identify
them as genuine and to provide certified copies or extracts from them.
Art 119
122.3 A document which appears to be a copy of a resolution or an extract from
the minutes of any meeting, and which is certified as a copy or extract as
described in Article 122.1 or 122.2 is conclusive evidence for anyone who
deals with the Company on the strength of the document that:
o the resolution has been properly passed; or
o the extract is a true and accurate record of the proceedings of a
valid meeting.
RESERVES
123 Setting up reserves
Art 124
The directors can, before recommending any dividend, set aside any profits
of the Company and hold them in a reserve. The directors can decide to use
these sums for any purpose for which the profits of the Company can
lawfully be used. Sums held in a reserve can either be employed in the
business of the Company or be invested. The directors can divide the
reserve into separate funds for particular purposes and alter the funds
into which the reserve is divided. The directors can also carry forward
any profits without holding them in a reserve.
DIVIDENDS
124 No dividends are payable except out of profits
Art 126
124.1 No dividend can be paid otherwise than out of profits available for
distribution under the Companies Acts.
Art 125
124.2 The profits of the Company which are determined to be distributed will be
used in the payment of dividends to shareholders in accordance with their
respective rights and priorities.
125 Final dividends
Art 125
Art 126
The directors may recommend the amount of any final dividend. The
shareholders can then declare dividends by passing an ordinary resolution,
but the amount declared cannot exceed the amount recommended by the
directors.
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126 Fixed and interim dividends
Art 128
126.1 If the directors consider that the profits of the Company justify such
payments, they can pay:
o fixed dividends on any class of shares carrying a fixed dividend on
the dates fixed for the payment of those dividends; and
o interim dividends on shares of any class of any amounts and on any
dates and for any period which they decide.
126.2 If the directors act in good faith, they are not liable to any
shareholders for any loss they may suffer because a lawful dividend has
been paid under this Article on other shares which rank equally with or
behind their shares.
127 Dividends not in cash
Art 133
If the directors recommend this, shareholders can pass an ordinary
resolution to direct all or part of a dividend to be paid by distributing
specific assets (and in particular paid-up shares or debentures of any
other company) rather than cash. The directors must give effect to that
resolution. Where any difficulty arises on the distribution and valuation
of the assets, the directors can settle it as they decide. In particular,
they can:
o issue fractional certificates;
o value assets for distribution purposes;
o pay cash of a similar value to adjust the rights of persons entitled
to the dividend; and/or
o transfer any assets to trustees for persons entitled to the
dividend.
128 Calculation and currency of dividends
Art 127
128.1 All dividends will be divided and paid in proportions based on the amounts
which have been paid up on the shares during any period for which the
dividend is paid. Sums which have been paid up in advance of calls do not
count in calculating the amount of a dividend to be paid on a share. If
the terms on which any share is issued provide that such share will be
entitled to a dividend as if it were a fully paid-up, or partly paid-up,
share from a particular date (in the past or the future), it will be
entitled to a dividend on this basis. This Article applies unless the
rights attached to any shares, or the terms of any shares, provide
otherwise.
128.2 Unless the rights attached to any shares, or the terms of any shares, or
the Articles provide otherwise, a dividend, or any other money payable in
respect of any share, can be paid to a shareholder in whatever currency
the directors decide, using an appropriate exchange rate selected by the
directors for any currency conversions which are required.
129 Deducting amounts owing from dividends and other money
Art 129
If a shareholder owes any money for calls on shares, or money relating in
any other way to shares, the directors can deduct any of this money (as
long as it is immediately payable) from:
o any dividend on any shares held by the shareholder; or
o any other money payable by the Company in connection with the
shares.
Money deducted in this way can be used to pay amounts owed to the Company
in connection with the shares.
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130 Payments to shareholders
Art 132(A)
130.1 Any dividend or other money payable in cash (whether in sterling or
foreign currency) relating to a share can be paid:
o by cheque or warrant or any other similar financial instrument made
payable to the shareholder who is entitled to it and sent direct to
his registered address or, in the case of joint shareholders, to the
shareholder who is first named in the Register and sent direct to
his registered address, or to someone else named in a written
instruction from the shareholder (or from all joint shareholders);
o in the case of shares in uncertificated form, by the use of a
relevant system;
o by inter-bank transfer or other electronic means to an account named
in a written instruction from the person receiving the payment;
and/or
o in some other way agreed between the shareholder (or all joint
shareholders) and the Company.
Art 131
130.2 For joint shareholders, the Company can rely on a receipt for a dividend
or other money paid on shares from any one of them.
Art 132(A)
130.3 Cheques and warrants are sent, and payment in any other way is made, at
the risk of the people who are entitled to the money. The Company is
treated as having paid a dividend if such a cheque or warrant is cleared
or if a payment using a relevant system or bank transfer or other
electronic means is made in accordance with instructions given by the
Company. The Company will not be responsible for a payment which is lost
or delayed.
Art 130
130.4 The Company will not pay interest on any dividend or other money due to a
shareholder in respect of his shares, unless the rights of the shares
provide otherwise.
131 Record dates for payments and other matters
Art 134
Any dividend or distribution on shares of any class can be paid to the
holder or holders of the shares shown on the Register, at the close of
business on whatever day may be provided in the resolution declaring the
dividend or providing for the distribution. The dividend or distribution
will be based on the number of shares registered on that day. This Article
applies whether what is being done is the result of a resolution of the
directors or a resolution passed at a General Meeting. The date can be
before any relevant resolution was passed. This Article does not affect
the rights to the dividend or distribution as between past and present
shareholders.
132 Dividends which are not claimed
Art 130
132.1 If a dividend has not been claimed for one year after the passing of
either the resolution passed at a General Meeting declaring that dividend
or the resolution of the directors providing for payment of that dividend,
the directors may invest the dividend or use it in some other way for the
benefit of the Company until the dividend is claimed. If the directors pay
unclaimed dividends into a separate account, the Company will not be a
trustee of the money and will not be liable to pay any interest on it. If
a dividend has not been claimed for 12 years after either the passing of
the relevant resolution either declaring that dividend or providing for
payment of that dividend, it will be forfeited and belong to the Company
again.
Art 132(B)
132.2 The Company can stop paying dividends by cheque, warrant or other payment
order if cheques, warrants or other payment orders for two dividends in a
row are sent back or not cashed. The Company must start paying dividends
in this way again if the shareholder or a person automatically entitled to
the shares by law:
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o claims those dividends in writing (before they are forfeited under
Article 132.1); and
o does not tell the Company to start paying future dividends in some
other way.
133 Waiver of dividends
Where a shareholder wants to waive his entitlement to all or any part of a
dividend, he may do so by delivering a letter to that effect, signed by
him, to the Company. If appropriate, the letter may be signed by whoever
has become automatically entitled to the shares by law. For the waiver to
be effective, the Company must accept the letter and act on it. The
Company may, however, decline to act on the letter and continue to pay
dividends to the shareholder accordingly.
CAPITALISING RESERVES
134 Capitalising reserves
Art 135
134.1 Subject to any special rights attaching to any class of shares, the
shareholders can pass an ordinary resolution to allow the directors to
change into capital any sum which:
o is part of any of the Company's reserves (including premiums
received when any shares were issued, capital redemption reserves or
other undistributable reserves); or
o the Company is holding as undistributed profits.
Art 135
134.2 Unless the ordinary resolution states otherwise the directors will use the
sum which is changed into capital for the Ordinary Shareholders on the
Register at the close of business on the day the resolution is passed (or
another date stated in the resolution or fixed as stated in the
resolution). The sum set aside must be used to pay up in full shares of
the Company and to allot such shares and distribute them to holders of
Ordinary Shares as bonus shares in proportion to their holdings of
Ordinary Shares at the time. The shares can be Ordinary Shares or, if the
rights of other existing shares allow this, shares of some other class.
Art 136
134.3 If any difficulty arises in operating this Article, the directors can
resolve it in any way which they decide. For example they can deal with
entitlements to fractions of a share. They can decide that the benefit of
fractions of a share belongs to the Company or that fractions of a share
are ignored or deal with fractions of a share in some other way.
Art 136
134.4 The directors can appoint any person to sign any contract with the Company
on behalf of those who are entitled to shares under the resolution. Such a
contract is binding on all concerned.
SCRIP DIVIDENDS
135 Ordinary Shareholders can be offered the right to receive extra shares
instead of cash dividends
Art 134(A)
135.1 The directors can offer Ordinary Shareholders the right to choose to
receive extra Ordinary Shares, which are credited as fully paid-up,
instead of some or all of their cash dividend. Before they can do this,
the shareholders must have passed an ordinary resolution authorising the
directors to make this offer.
Art 134(A)(i)
135.2 The ordinary resolution can apply to a particular dividend or dividends
(whether declared or not). Alternatively, it can apply to some or all of
the dividends which may be declared or paid in a specified period. The
specified period must end no later than five years after the ordinary
resolution is passed.
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Art 134(A)(v)
135.3 The directors can offer Ordinary Shareholders or persons automatically
entitled by operation of law the right to request new Ordinary Shares
instead of cash for:
o the next dividend; or
o all future dividends (if shares are made available as an alternative
to a cash dividend), until they tell the Company that they no longer
wish to receive new Ordinary Shares.
The directors can also allow Ordinary Shareholders to choose between these
alternatives.
Art 134(A)(ii)
135.4 An Ordinary Shareholder opting for new shares is entitled to Ordinary
Shares whose total relevant value is as near as possible to the cash
dividend (disregarding any tax credit) he would have received, but no
greater than such cash dividend.
The relevant value of an Ordinary Share is a value calculated in the
manner set out in the ordinary resolution or, if the ordinary resolution
does not set out how the relevant value of an Ordinary Share is to be
calculated, then the relevant value of an Ordinary Share is the average
value of the Ordinary Shares for the five dealing days starting from, and
including, the day when the shares are first quoted "ex dividend". This
average value is worked out from the average middle market quotations for
the Ordinary Shares on the London Stock Exchange, as published in its
Daily Official List. A certificate or report from the Company's auditors
as to the amount of the relevant value will be conclusive evidence of that
amount.
Art 134(A)(iv)
135.5 After the directors have decided to apply this Article to a dividend, they
must notify eligible Ordinary Shareholders in writing (or where the
Companies Acts permit, by electronic mail) of their right to choose new
Ordinary Shares. This notice should also set out the procedure by which
the Ordinary Shareholders must notify the Company if they wish to receive
new Ordinary Shares. Where Ordinary Shareholders have already chosen to
receive new Ordinary Shares in place of all cash future dividends, if new
Ordinary Shares are available, the Company will not notify them of a right
to receive new Ordinary Shares. Instead, the Company will remind them that
they have already chosen to receive new Ordinary Shares and explain to
them how to tell the Company if they wish to start receiving cash
dividends again.
Art 134(A)(iii)
135.6 The directors can set a minimum number of Ordinary Shares in respect of
which the right to choose new Ordinary Shares can be exercised. No
Ordinary Shareholder or person who is automatically entitled to an
Ordinary Share by law will receive a fraction of a share. The directors
can decide how to deal with any fractions left over and the Company can,
if the directors decide, receive the benefit of any or all of these.
Art 134(A)(vi)
135.7 The directors can exclude or restrict the right to choose new Ordinary
Shares, or make any other arrangements where they decide that:
o this is necessary or convenient to deal with any legal or practical
problems in relation to holders of Ordinary Shares with registered
addresses in any particular territory under the laws of any
territory, or requirements of any recognised regulatory body or
stock exchange in any territory; or
o special formalities would otherwise apply in connection with the
offer of new Ordinary Shares (including Ordinary Shares being
represented by American Depositary Shares); or
o it would be impractical or unduly onerous to give the right to any
Ordinary Shareholder or that for some other reason the offer should
not be made to them.
Art 134(A)(viii)
135.8 If an Ordinary Shareholder chooses to receive new Ordinary Shares, no
dividend on the Ordinary Shares for which he has chosen to receive new
Ordinary Shares (which are called the
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elected shares), will be declared or payable. Instead, new Ordinary Shares
will be allotted on the basis set out earlier in this Article. To do this
the directors will convert into capital a sum equal to the total nominal
value of the new Ordinary Shares to be allotted. They will use this sum to
pay up in full the appropriate number of new Ordinary Shares. These will
then be allotted and distributed to the holders of the elected shares as
set out above. The sum to be converted into capital can be taken from any
amount which is then in any reserve or fund (including the share premium
account, any capital redemption reserve and the profit and loss account).
Article 134 applies to this process, so far as it is consistent with this
Article 135.
Art 134(A)(ix)
135.9 The new Ordinary Shares rank equally in all respects with the existing
fully paid-up Ordinary Shares at the time the new Ordinary Shares are
allotted. The new Ordinary Shares are not entitled to share in the
dividend from which they arose or any other dividend or distribution or
other entitlement which has been declared, made or paid or is payable by
reference to such record date or earlier record date.
135.10 Unless the directors decide otherwise or the CREST Regulations or the
rules of a relevant system require otherwise, any new Ordinary Shares
which an Ordinary Shareholder has chosen to receive instead of some or all
of his cash dividend will be:
o shares in uncertificated form if the corresponding elected shares
were uncertificated shares on the record date for that dividend;
and
o shares in certificated form if the corresponding elected shares were
shares in certificated form on the record date for that dividend.
135.11 The directors can decide that new Ordinary Shares will not be available
in place of any cash dividend. They can decide this at any time before new
Ordinary Shares are allotted in place of such dividend, whether before or
after Ordinary Shareholders have chosen to receive new Ordinary Shares.
Art 134(A)(x)
135.12 The directors have the power to do all acts and things they consider
necessary to give effect to this Article.
ACCOUNTS
136 Accounting and other records
Art 137
136.1 The directors must make sure that proper accounting records that comply
with the Companies Acts are kept. These records must explain the Company's
transactions and show its financial position at any time with reasonable
accuracy.
Art 139
136.2 The directors must, in accordance with the Companies Acts, ensure that the
profit and loss accounts, balance sheets, group accounts (if any) and
reports specified in the Companies Acts are prepared and laid before the
Company at a General Meeting.
Art 140
136.3 The auditors' report must be laid before the Company in General Meeting
and must be open for inspection as required by the Companies Acts.
137 Location and inspection of records
Art 138
137.1 The accounting records must be kept:
o at the Registered Office; or
o at any other place which the Companies Acts allow and the
directors decide on.
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137.2 The Company's officers always have the right to inspect the accounting
records.
ART 138
137.3 No shareholder (other than a shareholder who is also an officer) has any
right to inspect any books or papers of the Company unless:
o the Companies Acts or a proper court order give him that
right; or
o the directors authorise him to do so; or
o he is authorised by an ordinary resolution to do so.
138 Sending copies of accounts and other documents
Art 141
138.1 This Article applies to every directors' and auditors' report and balance
sheet and profit and loss account to be laid before the shareholders at a
General Meeting with any other document which the Companies Acts requires
to be attached to these.
Art 141
138.2 Copies of the documents set out in Article 138.1 must be delivered or sent
by post to the shareholders and debenture holders at their registered
addresses and to all other people to whom the Articles, or the Companies
Acts or the requirements of the London Stock Exchange (or of any other
stock exchange on which all or any of the shares of the Company have been
admitted for listing) require the Company to send them. This must be done
at least 21 days before the relevant General Meeting. However, the Company
need not send these documents to shareholders who are sent summary
financial statements in accordance with the Companies Acts.
138.3 Shareholders or debenture holders who are not sent copies of the above
documents in Article 138.2 can receive a copy free of charge by applying
to the Company at the Registered Office.
AUDITORS
139 Acts of Auditors
Art 142
The directors must appoint auditors for the Company. The duties of the
auditors will be regulated in accordance with the Companies Acts. So far
as the Companies Acts allow, the actions of a person acting as an auditor
are valid in favour of anyone dealing with the Company in good faith, even
if there was some defect in the person's appointment or qualification to
act as an auditor.
140 Auditors at General Meetings
The Company's auditor can attend any General Meeting. He can speak at
General Meetings on any business which is relevant to him as auditor.
NOTICES
141 Serving and delivering notices and other documents
Art 143
141.1 The Company can serve or deliver any offer, notice or other document,
including a share certificate, on or to a shareholder:
o personally;
o by posting it in a letter (with postage paid) to the
shareholder's registered address or by causing it to be left
at that address in some other way; or
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o so far as the Companies Acts allow (and except in relation to
share certificates), by electronic mail to an electronic
address or fax number in the United Kingdom notified by the
shareholder in writing.
Art 146(A)
141.2 If the Company cannot effectively call a General Meeting by sending
notices through the post, because the post is suspended or restricted in
the United Kingdom, the directors can call the General Meeting by
publishing a notice in at least one United Kingdom national newspaper.
Notice published in this way will be treated as being properly served on
shareholders who are entitled to receive it at noon on the day when the
advertisement first appears. If it becomes possible to use the post again
more than seven days before the General Meeting, the Company must send
confirmation of the notice by post.
Art 146(B)
141.3 Any notice given by the Company to its shareholders (except for a notice
convening a shareholders' meeting) can (if it is not possible to send a
notice by post) be sufficiently given by placing an advertisement of the
notice once in at least one national newspaper.
141.4 However, Articles 141 to 146 do not affect any provision of the Companies
Acts requiring offers, notices or documents to be served in a particular
way.
142 Notices to joint holders
Art 144
When a notice or document is to be given to joint shareholders it must be
given to the joint shareholder who is listed first on the Register for the
share or shares, but ignoring any joint shareholder without a United
Kingdom address under Article 143. A notice given in this way is treated
as given to all of the joint holders.
143 Notices for shareholders with foreign addresses
Art 145
This Article applies to a shareholder whose address on the Register is
outside the United Kingdom. He can give the Company a United Kingdom
address where notices or documents can be served on him. If he does, he is
entitled to have notices or documents served on him at that address.
Otherwise, he is not entitled to receive any notices from the Company.
144 When notices are served
144.1 If a notice or document is delivered or served by hand, it is treated as
being delivered or served at the time it is handed to the shareholder or
left at his registered address.
Art 147
144.2 If a notice or document is sent through the post, it is treated as being
served or delivered at the expiration of 24 hours after it was posted in
the United Kingdom.
144.3 It can be proved conclusively that a notice or other document was served
by post by showing that the envelope containing the notice or document
was:
o properly addressed and
o put into the post and sent with postage prepaid.
144.4 To the extent permitted by the Companies Acts and these Articles a notice
or document sent by electronic mail is treated as being served or
delivered at the expiration of two hours from the time on the day it was
sent.
Art 147
144.5 If a notice is given by advertisement, it is treated as being served or
delivered on the day on which the advertisement appears.
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145 Serving notices and documents on shareholders who have died or are
bankrupt
Art 148
Art 149
This Article applies where a shareholder has died, or become bankrupt or
has become of unsound mind, but is still registered as a shareholder. It
applies whether he is registered as a sole or joint shareholder. If any
notice, or other document, is served on the shareholder named on the
Register, or sent to him in accordance with the Articles, this will be
valid despite his death or, bankruptcy or becoming of unsound mind. This
applies even if the Company knew about these things. If notices or
documents are served or sent in accordance with this Article, there is no
need to send them to, or serve them in any other way on any other people
who may be involved.
146 If documents are accidentally not sent
Art 56
If any notice, or other document relating to any meeting or other
proceeding, is accidentally not sent, or is not received, the meeting or
other proceeding will not be invalid as a result.
MINUTES AND RECORDS
147 Minutes
Art 120
147.1 The directors must ensure that minutes are entered in books kept for the
purpose of:
o all appointments of officers made by the directors;
o the names of the directors present at each directors' meeting and of
any committee of the directors;
o all resolutions and proceedings at all General Meetings of the
Company, the holders of any class of shares in the Company, the
directors and any committees of the directors;
and every director present at any directors' meeting or committee meeting
must sign his name in a book to be kept for that purpose.
147.2 If any such minute purports to be signed by the chairman of the meeting at
which the proceedings took place or by the chairman of the next succeeding
meeting this shall be conclusive evidence of the proceedings.
148 Availability of records for inspection and notifying the Registrar of
Companies
Art 121
148.1 The Company must keep and make available for inspection as required by the
Companies Acts:
Art 121(A)
Art 106
o a register of the directors and Secretary which must include all
information required by the Companies Acts (and from time to time
the Company must notify the registrar of companies of changes to the
register and the date of the change in the manner required by the
Acts);
Art 121 (B)
o copies and memoranda of directors' service contracts with the
Company and any of its subsidiaries;
Art 121 (C)
o a register of directors' interests in shares or debentures of the
Company or any other body corporate, being the Company's subsidiary
or holding company or a subsidiary of the Company's holding company.
This register must be produced and remain open at each Annual
General Meeting; and
Art 121 (D)
o a register for recording information relating to interests in the
share capital of the Company.
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Art 96
148.2 The directors must ensure that a register is kept in accordance with the
Companies Acts of all charges specifically affecting property of the
Company and of all floating charges relating to assets or property of the
Company, and the directors must comply with the Companies Acts in relation
to registration of charges.
WINDING UP
149 Directors' power to petition
The directors can present a petition to the Court in the name and on
behalf of the Company for the Company to be wound up.
Art 150
150 Distribution of assets in kind
If the Company is wound up (whether the liquidation is voluntary, under
supervision of the Court, or by the Court) the liquidator can, with the
authority of an extraordinary resolution passed by the shareholders and
any other sanction required by the Companies Acts, divide among the
shareholders the whole or any part of the assets of the Company. This
applies whether the assets consist of property of one kind or different
kinds. For this purpose, the liquidator can place whatever value he
considers fair upon any property and decide how the division is carried
out as between shareholders or different classes of shareholders. The
liquidator can also, with the authority of an extraordinary resolution
passed by the shareholders and any other sanction required by the
Companies Acts, transfer any part of the assets to trustees upon any
trusts for the benefit of shareholders which the liquidator decides.
However no past or present shareholder can be compelled to accept any
shares or other securities under this Article which carry a liability.
DESTROYING DOCUMENTS
Art 38
151 Destroying documents
151.1 The Company can destroy all:
o forms of transfer of shares, and documents sent to support a
transfer, and any other documents which were the basis for making an
entry on the Register, after six years from the date of
registration;
o dividend payment instructions and notifications of a change of
address or name, after two years from the date these were
registered; and
o cancelled share certificates, one year after the date they were
cancelled.
Art 38
151.2 A document destroyed in accordance with Article 151.1 is conclusively
treated as having been a valid and effective document in accordance with
the Company's records relating to the document. Any action of the Company
in dealing with the document in accordance with its terms before it was
destroyed is conclusively treated as properly taken.
Art 38(a)
151.3 Articles 151.1 and 151.2 only apply to documents which are destroyed in
good faith and if the Company has not been informed that keeping the
documents is relevant to any claim.
151.4 For documents relating to shares in uncertificated form, the Company must
also comply with any rules (as defined in the CREST Regulations) which
limit its ability to destroy these documents.
Art 38(b)
151.5 This Article does not make the Company liable if it:
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o destroys a document earlier than referred to in Article 151.1; or
o would not be liable if this Article did not exist.
Art 38(c)
151.6 This Article applies whether a document is destroyed or disposed of in any
other manner.
INDEMNITY AND INSURANCE
152 Indemnity
Art 151
152.1 So far as the Companies Acts allow, every director, Secretary or other
officer of the Company shall be indemnified by the Company out of its own
funds against all costs, charges, losses, expenses and liabilities
incurred by him:
o in performing or omitting to perform his duties; and/or
o in exercising or omitting to exercise his powers; and/or
o in purporting to do any of these things; and/or
o otherwise in relation to or in connection with his duties, powers or
office.
152.2 So far as the Companies Acts allow, every director, Secretary or other
officer of the Company is exempted from any liability to the Company where
that liability would be covered by the indemnity in Article 152.1.
153 Insurance
Art 92(B)
153.1 For the purpose of this Article each of the following is a Relevant
Company:
o the Company;
o any holding company of the Company;
o any company in which the Company or its holding company or any of
the predecessors of the Company or of its holding company has or had
any interest, whether direct or indirect; and
o any company which is in any way allied to or associated with the
Company, or any subsidiary undertaking of the Company or such other
company.
153.2 Without limiting Article 152 in any way, the directors can arrange for the
Company to purchase and maintain insurance for or for the benefit of any
persons who are or were at any time:
o directors, officers or employees of any Relevant Company; or
o trustees of any pension fund or employees' share scheme in which
employees of any Relevant Company are interested.
This includes, for example, insurance against any liability incurred by
them for any act or omission:
o in performing or omitting to perform their duties; and/or
o in exercising or omitting to exercise their powers; and/or
o in claiming to do any of these things; and/or
o otherwise in relation to their duties, powers or offices.
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SHARE WARRANTS
154 Issue of Share Warrants
154.1 The Company can issue Share Warrants which state that the bearer of the
Share Warrant ("Bearer") is entitled to the shares specified in the Share
Warrant. The Company can only do this in a way which is allowed under the
Companies Acts and in Articles 154 to 161. Share Warrants can provide for
the payment of future dividends and other distributions relating to the
shares. Payment can be made by exchanging coupons which can be attached to
the Share Warrants, or in any other way which the directors determine.
154.2 The Bearer of a Share Warrant is entitled to the number of shares which
are specified in it. These shares can be transferred by one person
delivering the Share Warrant to another.
154.3 Subject to Article 154.2, the provisions of the Articles relating to share
certificates and transferring shares do not apply to Share Warrants.
154.4 Each Share Warrant must be issued under the Seal.
154.5 The directors can decide on the language and form of, and the number of
shares represented by, each Share Warrant.
155 Directors can accept a certificate instead of a Share Warrant
155.1 The directors can accept a certificate from the persons referred to in
Article 155.2 stating that they hold Share Warrants on behalf of someone
named in the certificate as proof of matters set out in such certificate.
The certificate will be in such form as the directors decide (including
details of the number of shares to which the Share Warrant relates).
155.2 The only people who may deliver a certificate to the Company are the ADR
Depositary or any bank or agent which has been appointed by the Company.
For the purposes of Articles 154 to 160, the Company can treat the deposit
of the certificate as though the Share Warrant itself had been deposited
at the Transfer Office.
155.3 As long as the certificate is in a form agreed by the directors, the
Company does not need to make any further enquiry into the accuracy of the
information contained in the certificate.
156 Requesting a Share Warrant
156.1 A Share Warrant will only be issued if a shareholder requests in writing
that a Share Warrant is issued for some or all of the shares which are
registered in his name.
156.2 The request must be addressed to the directors at the Transfer Office. The
directors can specify the form of the request, and can require that
evidence is sent with the request to prove the identity of the person
making the request and his right to the shares. The directors do not have
to agree to this request.
156.3 Where a shareholder requests that Share Warrants are issued in relation to
shares registered in his name, and there are share certificates in respect
of those shares, a Share Warrant will only be issued once the share
certificates have been delivered to the Transfer Office for cancellation.
158.4 A person who requests a Share Warrant (including a person requesting a
Share Warrant in the circumstances described in Article 157) is
responsible (and will re-imburse the Company) for all and any stamp
duties, stamp duty reserve tax, bearer instrument duty,
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taxes, charges, fees, interest and penalties payable in connection with
the issue of the Share Warrants. This Article 156.4 applies unless the
person requesting the Share Warrant agrees otherwise with the Company.
157 Replacing Share Warrants
157.1 If a Share Warrant is damaged or defaced, the Bearer can request a new
one, once he returns the damaged or defaced Share Warrant to the directors
at the Transfer Office. Once any payments of the types described in
Article 156.4 are made (if any), a new Share Warrant will be issued.
157.2 If a Share Warrant is said to have been lost, stolen or destroyed, the
directors can issue a replacement (although they do not have to do so).
The directors can require satisfactory evidence of the loss, theft or
destruction, an indemnity, the payment of any exceptional out of pocket
expenses, and payments of the types described in Article 156.4 before
issuing a replacement.
157.3 The Bearer can ask the directors to cancel his existing Share Warrant and
replace it with two (or more) Share Warrants which together represent the
same number of shares which the original single Share Warrant represented.
The directors do not have to comply with this request. If they do, the
Bearer will have to surrender his original Share Warrant and can be
required by the directors to make any payments of the types described in
Article 156.4 before the new Share Warrants are issued.
158 Rights of the Bearer
158.1 The Bearer (or a person who has deposited his Share Warrant in accordance
with Article 158.2 or if the directors so decide, Article 155.2) shall be
entitled to the same rights and be subject to the same obligations as
those to which he would be entitled or subject if he were the registered
holder of the shares to which the Share Warrant relates. This is subject
to the provisions of Articles 154 to 161.
158.2 Where a Bearer deposits his Share Warrant, together with a written
declaration giving his name and address, at the Transfer Office (or some
other place specified by the directors) he has certain rights at any
General Meeting provided that such Share Warrant is deposited at least 48
hours in advance of such meeting. For as long as the Share Warrant remains
so deposited, the person who deposited it will have the following rights
as if he were the registered holder from the time of deposit of the shares
specified in the Share Warrant at a General Meeting:
o the right to sign a form requiring a General Meeting;
o the right to give notice of his intention to submit a resolution at
a General Meeting;
o the right to attend, speak and vote, appoint a proxy and exercise
the other rights of a shareholder at a General Meeting.
158.3 Any Share Warrant which is deposited in accordance with Article 158.2 must
remain deposited until the end of the General Meeting at which the person
who deposited the Share Warrant desires to attend or be represented.
158.4 If a person presents a Share Warrant at the Transfer Office, the Company
is entitled to assume that this person is the owner of the Share Warrant.
The Company can pay dividends or moneys relating to the shares specified
in the Share Warrant which are due to this person either to such person or
to an account specified by him. If the Company does this, it shall have
performed its obligation to pay that dividend or those moneys.
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159 Bearers of Share Warrants participating in securities offers
159.1 In the case of a securities offer, there is no need to contact any Bearer
individually. Instead, all the Company need do is advertise the details of
the securities offer in a leading United Kingdom national daily newspaper
(and any other newspapers the directors decide on).
159.2 If, following the publication of the advertisement referred to above, the
Bearer deposits the Share Warrant (or, if appropriate, the coupon attached
to the Share Warrant) at the Transfer Office (or some other place
mentioned in the advertisement), within the time limit set out in the
securities offer, he shall have the same right to participate in the
securities offer as if he were the registered holder of the shares
specified in the Share Warrant.
159.3 For the purposes of this Article, a securities offer means an offer of
shares, securities or debentures to shareholders or any class of
shareholders, or a proposed issue of shares pursuant to Article 134.
160 Communications with Bearers of Share Warrants
160.1 In the case of any communication (for example, a notice of General
Meeting, a circular or annual report) with shareholders, there is no need
for the Company to contact any Bearer individually. Instead, all the
Company need do is advertise the communication in a leading United Kingdom
national daily newspaper (and any other newspapers the directors decide
on), giving an address where copies of the communication may be obtained
by the Bearer.
160.2 The Company must communicate with the Bearer in a different way, if the
London Stock Exchange requires this.
161 Issuing shares to which the Share Warrant relates
161.1 The Bearer can ask to be registered as a shareholder (or that another
person be so registered) in respect of all or any of the shares specified
in the Share Warrant. In order to do so he must deposit at the Transfer
Office (or another place specified by the directors):
o the Share Warrant; and
o a signed declaration in a form agreed by the directors which sets
out the names and addresses of the persons, and the numbers of
shares, in whose name he wishes such shares to be registered.
161.2 The Company will comply with a request made in accordance with Article
161.1 only upon the payment (or reimbursement) by the Bearer of all and
any stamp duties, stamp duty reserve tax, bearer instrument duty, taxes,
charges, fees, interest and penalties payable in connection with the issue
of the shares. The Company may, however, agree that any such taxes or
costs do not have to be paid by the Bearer.
161.3 If the Company complies with a request made in accordance with Article
161.1, the person named in the declaration will be entitled to have his
name entered as a member in the Register in respect of the shares
specified in the declaration and to receive a share certificate for them.
161.4 If the declaration does not deal with all the shares to which the Share
Warrant relates, a new Share Warrant for the remaining shares will be
issued, without charge, to the person who deposited the old Share Warrant.
The new Share Warrant will only be issued upon the cancellation of the old
Share Warrant.
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ADR DEPOSITARY
162 ADR Depositary can appoint proxies
162.1 The ADR Depositary can appoint more than one person to be its proxy. As
long as the appointment complies with the requirements in Article 162.2,
the appointment can be made in any way and on any terms which the ADR
Depositary thinks fit. Each person appointed in this way is called an
Appointed Proxy.
162.2 The appointment must set out the number of shares in relation to which an
Appointed Proxy is appointed. This number is called the Appointed Number.
The Appointed Numbers of all Appointed Proxies appointed by the ADR
Depositary, when added together, must not be more than the number of
Depositary Shares (as calculated in Article 162.3).
162.3 The Depositary Shares attributable to the ADR Depositary consist of the
total of the number of shares:
o registered in the name of the ADR Depositary;
o represented by Share Warrants which have been deposited by the ADR
Depositary with the Company in accordance with Article 158; and
o represented by Share Warrants which are set out in a certificate
from the ADR Depositary accepted by the directors in accordance with
Article 155.
163 The ADR Depositary must keep a Proxy Register
163.1 The ADR Depositary must keep a register of the names and addresses of all
the Appointed Proxies. This is called the Proxy Register. The Proxy
Register will also set out the Appointed Number of shares of each
Appointed Proxy. This can be shown by setting out the number of American
Depositary Receipts which each Appointed Proxy holds and stating that the
Appointed Number of shares can be ascertained by multiplying the said
number of American Depositary Receipts by such number which for the time
being is equal to the number of shares which any one American Depositary
Receipt represents.
163.2 The ADR Depositary must let anyone whom the directors nominate inspect the
Proxy Register during usual business hours on a working day. The ADR
Depositary must also provide, as soon as possible, any information
contained in the Proxy Register if it is demanded by the Company or its
agents.
164 Appointed Proxies can only attend General Meetings if properly appointed
An Appointed Proxy may only attend a General Meeting if he provides the
Company with written evidence of his appointment by the ADR Depositary for
that General Meeting. This must be in a form agreed between the directors
and the ADR Depositary.
165 Rights of Appointed Proxies
Subject to the Companies Acts and these Articles and so long as the
Depositary Shares are sufficient to include an Appointed Proxy's Appointed
Number:
o at a General Meeting which an Appointed Proxy is entitled to attend,
he is entitled to the same rights and has the same obligations in
relation to his Appointed Number of shares as if the ADR Depositary
was the registered holder of such shares and he had been validly
appointed in accordance with Articles 76, 77 and 78 by the ADR
Depositary as its proxy in relation to those shares; and
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o an Appointed Proxy can himself appoint another person to be his
proxy in relation to his Appointed Number of shares, as long as the
appointment is made and deposited in accordance with Articles 76, 77
and 78 and, if it is, the provisions of these Articles will apply to
such an appointment as though the Appointed Proxy was the registered
holder of such shares and the appointment was made by him in that
capacity.
166 Sending information to an Appointed Proxy
The Company can send to an Appointed Proxy at his address in the Proxy
Register all the same documents which are sent to shareholders.
167 The Company can pay dividends to an Appointed Proxy
The Company can pay to an Appointed Proxy at his address in the Proxy
Register all dividends or other moneys relating to the Appointed Proxy's
Appointed Number of shares instead of paying this amount to the ADR
Depositary. If the Company does this, it will not have any obligation to
make this payment to the ADR Depositary as well.
168 The Proxy Register may be fixed at a certain date
168.1 In order to determine which persons are entitled as Appointed Proxies to:
o exercise the rights conferred by Article 165;
o receive documents sent pursuant to Article 166; and
o be paid dividends pursuant to Article 167
and the Appointed Number of shares in respect of which a person is to be
treated as having been appointed as an Appointed Proxy for such purpose,
the ADR Depositary may determine that the Appointed Proxies who are
entitled are the persons entered in the Proxy Register at the close of
business on a date (a "Record Date") determined by the ADR Depositary in
consultation with the Company.
168.2 When a Record Date is determined for a particular purpose:
o the Appointed Number of shares in respect of an Appointed Proxy will
be treated as the number appearing against his name in the Proxy
Register as at the close of business on the Record Date;
o this can be shown by setting out the number of American Depositary
Receipts which each Appointed Proxy holds and stating that the
number of shares can be ascertained by multiplying the said number
of American Depositary Receipts by such number which for the time
being is equal to the number of shares which any one American
Depositary Receipt represents; and
o changes to entries in the Proxy Register after the close of business
on the Record Date will be ignored in determining the entitlement of
any person for the purpose concerned.
169 The nature of an Appointed Proxy's interest
Except as required by the Companies Acts, no Appointed Proxy will be
recognised by the Company as holding any interest in shares upon any
trust. Except for recognising the rights given in relation to General
Meetings by appointments made by Appointed Proxies pursuant to Article
165, the Company is entitled to treat any person entered in the Proxy
Register as
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an Appointed Proxy as the only person (other than the ADR Depositary) who
has any interest in the shares in respect of which the Appointed Proxy has
been appointed.
170 Validity of the appointment of Appointed Proxies
170.1 If any question arises as to whether any particular person or persons has
or have been validly appointed to vote (or exercise any other right) in
respect of any shares (for example because the total number of shares in
respect of which appointments are recorded in the Proxy Register is more
than the number of Depositary Shares) this question will, if it arises at
or in relation to a General Meeting be determined by the chairman of the
General Meeting. His decision (which can include declining to recognise a
particular appointment or appointments as valid) will, if made in good
faith, be final and binding on all persons interested.
170.2 If a question of the type described in Article 170.1 arises in any
circumstances other than at or in relation to a General Meeting, the
question will be determined by the directors. Their decision (which can
include declining to recognise a particular appointment or appointments as
valid) will also, if made in good faith, be final and binding on all
persons interested.
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Glossary
About the glossary
This glossary is to help readers understand the Company's Articles of
Association. Words are explained as they are used in the Articles - they might
mean different things in other documents. The glossary is not legally part of
the Articles, and it does not affect their meaning. The definitions are intended
to be a general guide - they are not precise. Words which are printed in bold
and italic in a definition have their own legal definition as well as a more
general explanation of their meaning in this glossary.
abrogate If the special rights of a share are abrogated, they are cancelled or
withdrawn.
accrue If interest is accruing, it is running or mounting up, day by
day.
adjourned In relation to a shareholders' meeting, means that the meeting has
come to an end for the time being, to be continued at a later time or day, at
the same or a different place and adjourned and adjourn shall be construed
accordingly.
agent A person who has been appointed to act for another person.
allot When new shares are allotted, they are set aside for the person they are
intended for. This will normally be after the person has agreed to pay for a new
share, or has become entitled to a new share for any other reason. As soon as a
share is allotted, that person gets the right to have his name put on the
register of shareholders. When he has been registered, the share has also been
issued.
allottee A person to whom a share is allotted (see renunciation).
asset Any property of any description which is of any value to its owner.
attorney An attorney is a person who has been appointed to act for another
person in a particular way. The person is appointed by a formal document, called
a power of attorney.
automatically entitled to a share by law In some situations, a person will be
entitled to have shares which are registered in somebody else's name registered
in his own name. Or he can require the shares to be transferred to another
person. When a shareholder dies, or the sole survivor of joint shareholders
dies, his personal representatives have this right. If a shareholder is made
bankrupt, his trustee in bankruptcy has the right.
beneficial interest A person on whose behalf or for whose benefit a trustee
holds shares has a beneficial interest in those shares.
brokerage Commission which is paid to a broker by a company issuing shares,
where the broker's clients have applied for shares.
call A call to pay money which is due on shares which has not yet been paid.
This happens if the Company issues shares which are partly paid, where money
remains to be paid to the Company for the shares. The money which has not been
paid can be "called" for. If all the money to be paid on a share has been paid,
the share is called a fully paid share.
capitalise To convert some or all of the reserves of a company into capital
(such as shares).
capital redemption reserve A reserve of funds which a company may have to set up
to ensure that the Company's capital base remains the same when shares are
redeemed or bought back. It is equivalent to the amount by which the Company's
issued share capital is reduced by the redemption or purchase.
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casual vacancy A vacancy amongst the directors which occurs by reason of the
death, resignation or disqualification of a director, or from the failure of an
elected direct to accept his appointment, or for any other reason except the
retirement of a director in accordance with the Articles.
charge See lien and charge.
company representative If a company owns shares, it can appoint a company
representative to attend a shareholders' meeting to speak and vote for it.
consolidate When shares are consolidated, they are combined with other shares.
For example, every three (pound)1 shares might be consolidated into one new
(pound)3 share.
cumulative dividends If a dividend which is cumulative cannot be paid in one
year because the company does not have enough profits to cover the payment, the
shareholder has the right to receive the dividend in a future year, when the
company has enough profits to pay the dividend. Compare this with a
non-cumulative dividend.
debenture A typical debenture is a type of long-term borrowing by a company. The
loan usually has to be repaid at a fixed date in the future, and carries a fixed
rate of interest.
declare Generally, when a final dividend is declared, it becomes due to be paid.
dividend arrears Any dividend arrears. This includes any dividends on shares
with cumulative rights which could not be paid, but which have been carried
forward.
dividend warrant A dividend warrant is similar to a check for a dividend.
documents of title The documents which show that a person owns something (for
example, a share certificate).
ex-dividend When a share goes "ex-dividend", a person who buys it will not be
entitled to the dividend which has been declared shortly before he bought it.
When a share has gone "ex-dividend", the seller is entitled to this dividend,
even though it will be paid after he has sold his share.
executed A document is executed when it is signed, or sealed or made valid in
some other way.
exercise When a power is exercised, it is put to use.
extraordinary resolution A decision reached by a majority of at least 75 per
cent. of votes cast. The Companies Act requires extraordinary resolutions to be
passed in certain situations.
forfeit When a share is forfeited it is taken away from the shareholder and
becomes the property of the Company which can do with it as it likes. This
process is called "forfeiture". This can happen if a call on a partly-paid share
is not paid on time.
fully-paid shares When all of the money which is due to the Company for a share
has been paid, a share is called a fully paid share.
good title If a person has good title to a share, he owns it outright.
holding company A company which controls another company (for example by owning
a majority of its shares) is called the holding company of that other company.
The other company is the subsidiary of the holding company.
indemnity If a person gives another person an indemnity, he promises to make
good any losses or damage which the other might suffer. The person who gives the
indemnity is said to "indemnify" the other person.
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in issue See issue.
instruments Formal legal documents.
issue When a share has been issued, everything has been done to make the
shareholder the owner of the share. In particular, the shareholder's name has
been put on the register of shareholders. Existing shares which have been issued
are "in issue".
liabilities Debts and other obligations.
liable jointly and severally Where more than one person is liable jointly and
severally it means that any one of them may be sued, or they can all be sued
together.
lien and charge Where the Company has a lien and charge over shares, it can take
the dividends, and any other payments relating to the shares which it has a
charge over, or it can sell the shares, to repay the debt and so on.
members means shareholders.
negotiable instrument A document such as a check, which can be freely
transferred from one person to another.
nominal value The nominal value of the share. The nominal value of the 5p
Ordinary Shares is 5p. This value is shown on the share certificate for a share,
if there is one. When the Company issues new shares this can be for a price
which is at a premium to the nominal value. When shares are bought and sold on
the stock market this can be for more, or less, than the nominal value. The
nominal value is sometimes also called the "par value".
non-cumulative dividends If a dividend which is non-cumulative cannot be paid in
one year because the Company does not have enough profits available to cover the
payment, the shareholder does not have the right to receive the dividend in a
future year. This is the opposite to a cumulative dividend
objects of a company The business activities that the Company is authorised to
carry on. The Company's objects are set out in Clause 4 of its Memorandum.
office copy An exact copy of an official document, supplied by the office which
holds, or issued, the original.
ordinary resolution A decision reached by a simple majority of votes - that is
by more than 50 per cent of the votes cast.
par value See nominal value.
partly paid shares If any money remains to be paid on a share, it is said to be
partly paid. The unpaid money can be "called" for.
personal representatives A person who is entitled to deal with the property
("the estate") of a person who has died. If the person who has died left a valid
will, the will appoints "executors" who are personal representatives. If the
person died without a will, the courts will appoint one or more "administrators"
to be the personal representatives.
poll A poll vote is usually a card vote but to the extent permitted by the
Companies Acts may be an electronic vote. On a poll vote, the number of votes
which a shareholder has will depend on the number of shares which he owns. An
Ordinary Shareholder has one vote for each share he owns. A poll vote is
different to a show of hands vote, where each person who is entitled to vote has
just one vote, however many shares he owns.
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power of attorney A formal document which legally appoints one or more persons
to act on behalf of another person.
pre-emption rights The right of some shareholders which is given by the
Companies Act to be offered a proportion of certain classes of newly issued
shares and other securities before they are offered to anyone else. This offer
must be made on terms which are at least as favourable as the terms offered to
anyone else.
premium If the Company issues a new share for more than its nominal value (for
example because the market value is more than the nominal value), the amount
above the nominal value is the premium.
proxy A proxy is a person who is appointed by a shareholder to attend a
shareholders' meeting and vote for that shareholder. A proxy is appointed by
using a proxy form. A proxy does not have to be a shareholder. At a
shareholders' meeting a proxy can vote on a poll and, if the Articles permit, he
can also vote on a show of hands and speak.
proxy form A form which a shareholder uses to appoint a proxy to attend a
shareholders meeting and vote for him. The proxy form must be delivered to the
Company before the meeting to which it relates.
quorum The minimum number of shareholders or directors who must be present
before a meeting can start. When this number is reached, the meeting is said to
be "quorate".
rank & ranking When either capital or income is distributed to shareholders, it
is paid out according to the rank (or ranking) of the shares. For example, a
share which ranks before (or ahead of) another share in sharing in the Company's
income is entitled to have its dividends paid first, before any dividends are
paid on shares which rank behind (or after) it. If there is not enough income to
pay dividends on all shares, the available income must be used first to pay
dividends on shares which rank ahead, and then to shares which rank behind. The
same applies for repayments of capital. Capital must be paid first to shares
which rank ahead in sharing in the Company's capital, and then to shares which
rank behind. The Company's Fixed Rate Shares rank ahead of its Ordinary Shares.
Where certain shares rank equally with other shares, both types of shares have
the same rights as each other.
recognised clearing house A "clearing house" which has been authorised to carry
on business by the UK authorities. A clearing house is a central computer system
for settling transactions between members of the clearing house.
recognised investment exchange An "investment exchange" which has been
officially recognised by the UK authorities. An investment exchange is a place
where investments, such as shares, are traded. The London Stock Exchange is a
recognised investment exchange.
redeem and redemption When a share is redeemed, it is effectively bought back by
the Company in return for a sum of money (the "redemption price") which was
fixed before the share was issued. This process is called redemption. A share
which can be redeemed is called a "redeemable" share.
relevant system This is a term used in the CREST Regulations for a
computer-based system which allows shares without share certificates to be
transferred without using transfer forms. The CREST system for paperless share
dealing is a "relevant system".
renunciation Where a share has been allotted, but no one has been entered on the
share register as the holder of the share, it can be renounced by the allottee
to another person. This transfers the right to be registered as the holder of
the share to another person. This process is called renunciation.
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71
<PAGE>
requisition a meeting A formal process which shareholders can use to call a
shareholders' meeting. Generally speaking the shareholders who want to call a
meeting must hold at least 10 per cent of the issued shares.
reserve fund or reserves A fund which has been set aside in the accounts of a
company. Profits which are not paid out to shareholders as dividends, or used up
in some other way, are held in a reserve fund by the company. The capital
redemption reserve and share premium account are also reserve funds.
revoke To withdraw, or cancel.
rights issue A way by which companies raise extra share capital. Usually the
existing shareholders will be offered the chance to buy a certain number of new
shares, depending on how many they already have. For example, shareholders may
be offered the chance to buy one new share for every four they already have.
securities All shares, bonds and other investment instruments issued by a
company which entitle the holder to a share in the profits or assets of that
company, to receive a cash payment from a company or to subscribe for such a
security.
securities seal A seal used to stamp the Company's securities as evidence that
the Company has issued them. The Company's securities seal is like the Company's
Common Seal but with the addition of the word "securities".
share premium account If a new share is issued by the Company for more than its
nominal value (generally because the market value is more than the nominal
value) then the amount above the nominal value is the premium, and the total of
these premiums is held in a reserve fund (which cannot be used to pay dividends)
called the share premium account.
show of hands A shareholder raises his hand to vote at a shareholders' meeting
(unless there is a poll). Each person who is entitled to vote has just one vote,
however many shares he holds.
special notice This term is defined in Section 379 Companies Act 1985. Broadly,
if special notice of a resolution is required by the Companies Acts, the
resolution is not valid unless the Company has been told about the intention to
propose it at least 28 days before the shareholders' meeting at which it is
proposed (although in certain circumstances the meeting can be on a date less
than 28 days from the date of the notice).
special resolution A decision reached by a majority of at least 75 per cent of
votes cast. Shareholders must be given at least 21 days' notice of any special
resolution.
special rights These are the rights of a particular class of shares, as distinct
from rights which apply to all shares generally. Typical examples of special
rights are where the shares rank, their rights to sharing in income and assets
and voting rights.
statutory declaration A formal way of declaring something in writing. Particular
words and formalities must be used - these are laid down by the Statutory
Declarations Act of 1835.
stock When shares are converted into stock the holder's interest in the Company
is expressed by reference to a sum of money divided into transferable units. For
example, the interest of a shareholder with one hundred (pound)1 shares might be
converted into (pound)100 worth of stock transferable in units of (pound)1 each.
subordinate Where a right or interest is subordinated to something else, it
ranks behind it.
subscribe for shares To agree to take new shares in a company (usually for a
cash payment).
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<PAGE>
subdividing shares When shares are subdivided they are split into shares which
have a smaller nominal value. For example, a (pound)1 share might be subdivided
into two 50p shares.
subject to Means that something else has priority, or prevails, or must be taken
into account. When a statement is subject to another statement this means that
the first statement must be read in the light of the other statement, which will
prevail if there is any conflict.
subscribers to shares The people who first acquire the shares.
subsidiary A company which is controlled by another company (for example because
the other company owns a majority of its shares) is called a subsidiary of that
company.
subsidiary undertaking This is a term used by the Companies Act. It is a wider
definition than subsidiary. Generally speaking it is a company which is
controlled by another company because the other company:
o has a majority of the votes in the company either alone, or acting
with others;
o is a shareholder who can appoint or remove a majority of the
directors; or
o can exercise dominant influence over the company because of anything
in the Company's Memorandum or Articles, or because of a certain
kind of contract.
takeover offer An offer to acquire all the shares, or all the shares of any
class, in a company (except shares already held by the person making the offer).
The terms of the offer must be the same for all the shares to which the offer
relates. This is defined in more detail in the Companies Act 1985.
trustees People who hold property of any kind for the benefit of one or more
other people under a kind of arrangement which the law treats as a "trust". The
people whose property is held by the trustees are called the beneficiary.
underwrite A person who agrees to buy new shares if they are not bought by other
people underwrites the share offer.
unincorporated associations Associations, partnerships, societies and other
bodies which the law does not treat as a separate legal person to their members.
warrant See the definition of dividend warrant.
wider-range investments The law restricts the investments which some trustees
can invest in. Where this restriction applies, the trustees can invest up to
three quarters of their funds in wider-range investments. These are, generally
speaking, shares which are quoted on the London Stock Exchange, and which are
earning dividends.
wind up The formal process to put an end to a company. When a company is wound
up its assets are distributed. The assets go first to creditors, and then to
shareholders. Shares which rank first in sharing in the Company's assets will
receive any funds which are left over before any shares which rank after (or
behind) them.
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Exhibit 5
[LOGO]
The Directors
Vodafone Group Public Limited Company
The Courtyard
2-4 London Road
Newbury
Berkshire RG14 1JX
England
SRS/SEC/A1/1539 22 April 1999
Dear Sirs,
REGISTRATION STATEMENT ON FORM F-4 (THE "REGISTRATION STATEMENT")
OF VODAFONE GROUP PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY
1. This opinion is given in connection with the proposed registration under the
United States Securities Act of 1933, as amended, of 3,075,586,520 Ordinary
Shares of 5p each or, if the ordinary share capital is redenominated as
contemplated by the Merger Agreement referred to herein (the
"Redenomination"), 3,075,586,520 Ordinary Shares of nominal value US$0.10
each (the "Ordinary Shares"), of Vodafone Group Public Limited Company, an
English public limited company (the "Company") (proposed to be renamed
"Vodafone AirTouch Public Limited Company"), to be issued in connection with
the Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of 15 January 1999, (the "Merger
Agreement"), among the Company, AirTouch Communications Inc., a Delaware
corporation ("AirTouch"), and Apollo Merger Sub, Inc., a Delaware
corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of the Company ("Apollo Merger
Sub") providing for the merger (the "Merger") of Apollo Merger Sub with and
into AirTouch.
2. This opinion is limited to English law as applied by the English courts and
is given on the basis that it will be governed by and be construed in
accordance with English law.
3. I have examined and relied on copies of such corporate records and other
documents, including the Registration Statement, and reviewed such matters
of law as I have deemed necessary or appropriate for the purpose of this
opinion.
4. In rendering this opinion I have assumed that:
4.1 The extraordinary general meeting of Vodafone shareholders to be held in
connection with the Merger (the "Extraordinary General Meeting") will be
duly convened and that the resolutions to effect the Redenomination, to
increase the authorised ordinary share capital of the Company and to
authorise the allotment of the Ordinary Shares pursuant to the Merger
proposed at such meeting will be passed in the form of such resolutions
contained in the notice of the Extraordinary General Meeting and, once
passed, none of the relevant resolutions will be subsequently amended or
revoked prior to the allotment and issuance of such Ordinary Shares; and
4.2 Following the passing of the relevant resolutions at the Extraordinary
General Meeting on the basis described above, a meeting of the board of
directors or of a duly authorised and constituted committee of the board
of directors of the Company will be duly convened and shall duly resolve
to allot and issue the Ordinary Shares and such resolution(s) shall not
be subsequently amended or revoked prior to the allotment and issuance of
such Ordinary Shares.
<PAGE>
5. On the basis of, and subject to, the foregoing and having regard to such
considerations of English law in force at the date of this letter as I
consider relevant, I am of the opinion that the Ordinary Shares to be issued
by the Company pursuant to and in accordance with the merger will, when so
issued, be legally and validly issued, fully paid and non-assessable (i.e.,
no further contributions in respect thereof will be required to be made to
the Company by the holders thereof, by reason only of their being such
holders).
I consent to the filing of this opinion as an exhibit to the Registration
Statement. In giving such consent I do not admit that I am in the category of
persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of the Securities Act of 1933,
as amended.
Yours sincerely,
VODAFONE GROUP PLC
/s/ Stephen Scott
S R SCOTT Solicitor
Company Secretary
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 8(a)
[Sullivan & Cromwell Letterhead]
April 22, 1999
Vodafone Group Public Limited Company,
The Courtyard, 2-4 London Road,
Newbury, Berkshire RG14 1JX, England.
Ladies and Gentlemen:
We have acted as counsel to Vodafone Group Public Limited Company, an
English company ("Vodafone"), in connection with the proposed merger (the
"Merger") of Apollo Merger Sub Inc., a newly-formed Delaware corporation and a
direct wholly-owned subsidiary of Vodafone ("Merger Sub"), with and into
AirTouch Communications, Inc., a Delaware corporation ("AirTouch"), with
AirTouch surviving, pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "Merger
Agreement"), dated as of January 15, 1999, among Vodafone, AirTouch and Merger
Sub. Capitalized terms used but not defined herein shall have the meanings
specified in the Registration Statement relating to the Merger, or the
appendices thereto (including the Merger Agreement).
We have, with your consent, made the assumptions and relied upon the facts
and representations set forth in the Registration Statement under the heading
"Material Tax Consequences."
On the basis of the foregoing, and our consideration of such other matters
of fact and law as we have deemed necessary or appropriate, we hereby confirm
that the description of the U.S. federal income tax consequences relating to the
internal reorganization and the Merger set forth in the Registration Statement
under the heading "Material Tax Consequences," subject to the limitations and
qualifications set forth therein, represents our opinion as to all of the
material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the internal reorganization and
the Merger.
We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion as an exhibit to the
Registration Statement and to the reference to this opinion in the Registration
Statement. In giving this consent, we do not hereby 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/ Sullivan & Cromwell
<PAGE>
Exhibit 8(b)
[FRIED, FRANK, HARRIS, SHRIVER & JACOBSON LETTERHEAD]
April 22, 1999
AirTouch Communications, Inc.
One California Street
San Francisco, California 94111
Ladies and Gentlemen:
We are acting as your counsel in connection with the proposed merger
(the "Merger") of Apollo Merger Sub Inc. ("Merger Sub"), a newly-organized
Delaware corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Vodafone Group Public
Limited Company, an English company ("Vodafone), with and into AirTouch
Communications, Inc. ("AirTouch"), whereupon AirTouch will be the surviving
corporation and the separate existence of Merger Sub will cease. The Merger will
be consummated pursuant to the Agreement and Plan of Merger dated as of January
15, 1999 by and among AirTouch, Vodafone, and Merger Sub (the "Merger
Agreement").
Vodafone has filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission under
the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act"), a registration
statement on Form F-4 (the "Registration Statement"), with respect to the
Vodafone ordinary shares, including those represented by Vodafone depositary
shares, to be issued to holders of shares of common stock of AirTouch in
connection with the Merger. In addition, Vodafone has prepared, and we have
reviewed, a Proxy Statement/Prospectus which is contained in and made a part of
the Registration Statement, and the Appendices thereto, including the Merger
Agreement. In rendering the opinion set forth below, we have relied upon the
facts stated in the Proxy Statement/Prospectus and upon such other documents as
we have deemed appropriate, including the Internal Revenue Service private
letter ruling dated April 12, 1999 addressing certain issues under Section
367(a)(1) of the Internal Revenue Code (the "Private Letter Ruling") and the
representations of AirTouch and Vodafone referred to in the Proxy
Statement/Prospectus and set forth in the attached officer's certificates from
AirTouch and Vodafone.
We have assumed that all parties to the Merger Agreement have acted,
and will act, in accordance with the terms of such Merger Agreement and that the
Merger will be consummated at the effective time pursuant to the terms and
conditions set forth in the Merger Agreement without the waiver or modification
of any such terms and conditions. We have also assumed the internal
reorganization described in the Proxy
<PAGE>
AirTouch Communications, Inc.
April 22, 1999
Page 2
Statement/Prospectus will be completed at least two days prior to the Merger and
in accordance with the terms of the Amended and Restated Agreement and Plan of
Merger of AirTouch Merger Sub, Inc. with and into AirTouch Communications, Inc.
Based upon and subject to the foregoing, we hereby confirm that the
description of the U.S. federal income tax consequences relating to the internal
reorganization and the Merger set forth in the portion of the Proxy
Statement/Prospectus captioned "Material Tax Consequences", subject to the
qualifications and limitations set forth therein, represents our opinion as to
all of the material U.S. federal income tax consequences of the internal
reorganization and the Merger. No opinion is expressed on any matters other than
those specifically referred to herein.
This opinion is furnished to you for your use in connection with the
Registration Statement and may not be used for any other purpose without our
prior express written consent. We hereby consent to the filing of this opinion
as an exhibit to the Registration Statement and to the use of our name in that
portion of the Proxy Statement/Prospectus captioned "Material Tax Consequences."
In giving such consent, we do not thereby admit that we are in the category of
persons whose consent is required under Section 7 of the 1933 Act.
Very truly yours,
FRIED, FRANK, HARRIS, SHRIVER &
JACOBSON
/s/ FRIED, FRANK, HARRIS, SHRIVER & JACOBSON
--------------------------------------------
<PAGE>
AIRTOUCH COMMUNICATIONS INC. OFFICER'S CERTIFICATE
The undersigned officer of AirTouch Communications, Inc., a Delaware
corporation ("AirTouch"), in connection with the opinions (the "Tax Opinions")
to be delivered by Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson, a partnership
including professional corporations, and Sullivan and Cromwell (collectively
"Tax Counsel") included as Exhibits 8(a) and 8(b) to the Form F-4 Registration
Statement (No. 333-___) filed by Vodafone Group Public Limited Company, an
English public limited company ("Vodafone"), on April 22, 1999 and concerning
the Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "Merger Agreement") dated as of January
15, 1999 among Vodafone, Apollo Merger Sub, Inc., a Delaware corporation and a
wholly owned subsidiary of Vodafone ("Merger Sub"), and AirTouch and the Amended
and Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "Initial Merger Agreement") dated
as of January 15, 1999 and amended on April 16, 1999 among AirTouch and AirTouch
Merger Sub, Inc., a Delaware corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of
AirTouch ("Initial Merger Sub"), and recognizing (1) that said law firms will
rely on this Certificate in delivering the Tax Opinions, (2) that it will be
necessary to provide a written confirmation of each of the following
representations at the Effective Time of the Merger and (3) that the Tax
Opinions may not be accurate if any of the following representations are not
accurate in all respects, hereby certifies on behalf of AirTouch and Initial
Merger Sub that, to the extent the following facts and representations relate to
AirTouch, such representations are true, complete and correct in all respects
and, to the extent the following representations relate to Vodafone or Merger
Sub, the undersigned has no reason to believe such representations are not true
(unless otherwise defined herein, capitalized terms shall have the meanings
ascribed to them in the Merger Agreement):
1. Each of the representations made by AirTouch, the facts relating to the
contemplated merger of Merger Sub with and into AirTouch pursuant to
the Merger Agreement and the facts relating to the contemplated merger
of Initial Merger Sub with and into AirTouch pursuant to the Initial
Merger Agreement, each as described therein, and in the documents
described in the Merger Agreement and Initial Merger Agreement relating
to the Merger and the Initial Merger, respectively, and in the AirTouch
Proxy Statement, the Vodafone Documents and the Form F-4, are, insofar
as such facts pertain to AirTouch and Initial Merger Sub, true, correct
and complete in all material respects. Other than those described or
referenced in the Merger Agreement, the Initial Merger Agreement, the
AirTouch Proxy Statement, the Vodafone Documents, the Form F-4 or such
other written documents that have previously been provided to Tax
Counsel, there are no agreements, arrangements or understandings,
either written or oral, between or among (a) any of Vodafone, its
subsidiaries, affiliates or stockholders, on the one hand, and (b) any
of AirTouch, its subsidiaries, affiliates or stockholders on the other
hand, concerning the Merger
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<PAGE>
or Initial Merger (except for agreements, arrangements or
understandings among stockholders of Vodafone, on the one hand, and
stockholders of AirTouch, on the other hand, to which the management of
AirTouch does not have knowledge). In rendering the Tax Opinions, we
understand that Tax Counsel will be relying upon the accuracy of the
factual information contained in the AirTouch Proxy Statement, the
Vodafone Documents and the Form F-4 filed in connection with the
transactions and upon the representations, warranties and covenants set
forth in this Certificate.
2. The Merger and Initial Merger will be effected solely in compliance
with the terms and conditions of the Merger Agreement and the Initial
Merger Agreement and none of the terms and conditions thereof relevant
to the aforesaid opinions have been waived or modified. The Initial
Merger will be completed at least two days prior to the Effective Time.
3. Initial Merger Sub will have no assets (other than nominal capital) and
no liabilities prior to the Initial Merger, has been, or will be,
formed by AirTouch solely for the purpose of effecting the Initial
Merger and will not conduct, and if presently formed has not conducted
and is not conducting, any business activities.
4. The fair market value of the Vodafone Ordinary Shares (including
Vodafone Ordinary Shares represented by Vodafone Depositary Shares)
(collectively, the "Vodafone Shares") and other consideration to be
received by each holder of AirTouch Common Stock will be approximately
equal to the fair market value of the AirTouch Common Stock surrendered
in the Merger in exchange therefor.
5. To the best knowledge of the management of AirTouch, there is no plan
or intention on the part of any of the stockholders of AirTouch to
sell, exchange or otherwise dispose of any of the Vodafone Shares to be
received by them in the Merger to Vodafone or any person that is
related to Vodafone (within the meaning of U.S. Treasury Regulation
Section 1.368-1(e)(3)) except (a) pursuant to open market purchase
programs of Vodafone generally available to all holders of Vodafone
Shares, which programs will not be created or modified in connection
with the Merger or (b) in the case of the Class D Preferred Shares and
the Class E Preferred Shares, pursuant to the terms thereof relating to
redemption or maturity or, in the event the Investment Agreement dated
as of April 6, 1998 by and among AirTouch and MediaOne Group Inc., a
Delaware corporation ("MediaOne"), formerly known as U.S. West Inc., is
amended pursuant to that certain letter agreement dated January 29,
1998 among AirTouch and MediaOne to include the right, subject to the
conditions
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<PAGE>
specified therein, of MediaOne to require AirTouch or its assignee to
purchase the Class D Preferred Shares or Class E Preferred Shares on
the terms specified therein (such right, the "Put Right"), pursuant to
the Put Right.
6. Neither AirTouch nor any person related to AirTouch, within the meaning
of U.S. Treasury Regulation Section 1.368-1(e)(3), has redeemed,
purchased or otherwise acquired any shares of any class of AirTouch
stock for consideration other than shares of AirTouch Common Stock in a
transaction or transactions related to the Merger (or otherwise in
connection with the Merger) except (a) as expressly contemplated by the
Merger Agreement, (b) with respect to cash paid by AirTouch to holders
of Class C Preferred Shares, (c) pursuant to open market purchase
programs of AirTouch generally available to all holders of AirTouch
Common Stock, which programs have not been created or modified in
connection with the Merger or (d) possibly, pursuant to "puts" issued
by AirTouch in October and November of 1998 on no more than four (4)
million shares of AirTouch Common Stock (the "Puts"). No extraordinary
distribution (i.e., a distribution other than a regular normal dividend
consistent with AirTouch's historic dividend practice and policy), has
been or will be made with respect to the stock of AirTouch in a
transaction or transactions related to the Merger (or otherwise in
connection with the Merger).
7. At the time of the Merger, AirTouch will hold at least 90% of the fair
market value of its net assets, and at least 70% of the fair market
value of its gross assets, held immediately prior to the Merger. For
purposes of this representation, amounts paid by AirTouch to
stockholders who receive cash or other property (including cash paid to
holders of the Series C Preferred Shares), amounts paid by AirTouch to
dissenters, amounts paid by AirTouch to holders of the Puts, payments
by AirTouch to its optionees, AirTouch assets used to pay its
reorganization expenses, and all redemptions and distributions (except
for regular, normal dividends) made by AirTouch immediately preceding
the transfer or pursuant to the Put Right, will be included as assets
of AirTouch held immediately prior to the Merger.
8. AirTouch has no plan or intention to issue additional shares of its
stock (or any options, warrants or other rights to acquire any shares
of stock of AirTouch) that would result in Vodafone losing control of
AirTouch within the meaning of Section 368(c) of the Code.
9. Except as set forth in Section 3.9 of the Merger Agreement, Vodafone,
Merger Sub, AirTouch and the stockholders of AirTouch will each pay
their respective expenses, if any, incurred in connection with the
Merger.
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<PAGE>
10. There is no intercorporate indebtedness existing between Vodafone (or
its subsidiaries) and AirTouch (or its subsidiaries), or between Merger
Sub and AirTouch (or its subsidiaries) that was issued, acquired, or
will be settled at a discount.
11. At the Effective Time, there will be no interests in AirTouch that
could be treated as equity for U.S. federal income tax purposes other
than the AirTouch Common Stock, the Class B Preferred Shares, the Class
C Preferred Shares, the Class D Preferred Shares and the Class E
Preferred Shares.
12. At the Effective Time, AirTouch will not have outstanding any warrants,
options, convertible securities, or any other type of right pursuant to
which any person could acquire any stock of AirTouch that, if exercised
or converted, could affect Vodafone's acquisition or retention of
"control" of AirTouch, within the meaning of Section 368(c) of the
Code.
13. Disregarding stock and securities in its subsidiaries, and treating any
stock or securities owned by its subsidiaries as owned by AirTouch,
less than fifty percent of the value of the total assets of AirTouch
are invested in stocks and securities. For this purpose, a "subsidiary"
shall have the meaning set forth in Section 368(a)(2)(F)(iii) of the
Code.
14. At the Effective Time, the fair market value of the assets of AirTouch
will exceed the sum of its liabilities, plus the amount of liabilities,
if any, to which the assets are subject.
15. AirTouch is not under the jurisdiction of a court in a case under Title
11 of the United States Code or a receivership, foreclosure or similar
proceeding in a Federal or State court.
16. The payment of cash, if any, in lieu of fractional Vodafone Depositary
Shares represents a mere mechanical rounding off, solely for the
purpose of avoiding the expense and inconvenience to Vodafone of
issuing fractional depositary shares, and does not represent separately
bargained-for consideration. The total cash consideration that will be
paid in the transaction to AirTouch stockholders instead of issuing
fractional Vodafone Depositary Shares will not exceed 1% of the total
consideration that will be issued in the transaction to AirTouch
stockholders in exchange for their shares of AirTouch Common Stock. The
fractional share interests of each AirTouch stockholder will be
aggregated, and no AirTouch stockholder, with the possible exception of
stockholders whose holdings are in separate accounts or with different
brokers, will receive cash in lieu of fractional depositary shares in
an amount greater than one full Vodafone Depositary Share.
-4-
<PAGE>
17. None of the compensation received by any stockholder-employee of
AirTouch will be separate consideration for, or allocable to, any of
such stockholder-employee's shares of AirTouch Common Stock; none of
the Vodafone Shares received by any stockholder-employee of AirTouch
will be separate consideration for, or allocable to, any employment
agreement, and the compensation paid to any stockholder-employee of
AirTouch will be for services actually rendered or to be rendered and
will be commensurate with amounts paid to third parties bargaining at
arm's-length for similar services.
18. During the three-year period prior to the Merger, AirTouch has not
disposed of more than twenty (20) percent of its assets except in
transactions in the ordinary course of business.
19. At the time U.S. West PCS Holdings, Inc. and U.S. West NewVector Group,
Inc. merged with and into AirTouch, AirTouch had no plan or intention
to engage in any transaction in which AirTouch would be acquired by
Vodafone or any affiliate of Vodafone.
20. No liabilities of AirTouch shareholders will be assumed by Vodafone,
nor will any of the shares of AirTouch stock be subject to any
liabilities.
21. Any amounts AirTouch is required to pay to dissenters to the Merger,
to, or on behalf of, its shareholders in respect of amounts referred to
in Section 3.9 of the Merger Agreement, to holders of the Series C
Preferred Shares, or to holders of the Series D Preferred Shares or
Series E Preferred Shares in respect of the exercise of the Put Right,
will be paid by AirTouch solely out of its own cash on hand or out of
the proceeds from its issuance of debt to persons other than Vodafone
or affiliates of Vodafone. AirTouch will have the capacity as an
independent stand-alone entity in the ordinary course of its business
without disruption thereto to either fund any such payments out of its
own cash on hand or other assets, or to borrow without any guarantees
provided by Vodafone or its affiliates, or other credit support
provided by any such persons, any and all amounts that may be necessary
to fund any such payments and to repay any such borrowings. In this
regard, in the event AirTouch borrows any amounts in respect of
payments contemplated by this paragraph, neither Vodafone nor any of
its affiliates shall provide any guarantee or other credit support in
respect of any such debt.
22. AirTouch's corporate business reasons for consummating the Merger are
set forth on pages 32 and 33 of the Form F-4.
23. There will be immediately prior to the Effective Time no more than
614.5 million shares of AirTouch Common Stock outstanding, treating as
outstanding
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<PAGE>
shares of AirTouch Common Stock for this purpose all shares of AirTouch
Common Stock that prior to the Effective Time could be issued pursuant
to outstanding vested options, warrants, convertible securities or any
other type of right pursuant to which any person could acquire AirTouch
Common Stock.
24. In the Merger, shares of AirTouch Common Stock representing more than
80% of the total voting power of all outstanding shares of AirTouch
voting stock at the Effective Time of the Merger will be exchanged for
Vodafone Shares. For purposes of this representation, shares of
AirTouch exchanged for cash originating with Vodafone or any person
related to Vodafone (within the meaning of U.S. Treasury Regulation
Section 1.368-1(e)(3)) will be treated as outstanding AirTouch stock on
the date of the Merger.
25. Fifty percent or less of each of the total voting power and the total
value of the stock of Vodafone will be owned, in the aggregate,
immediately after the Merger by U.S. persons (within the meaning of
U.S. Treasury Regulation Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(5)(iv)) that are either
officers or directors of AirTouch or that are "five-percent target
shareholders" with respect to AirTouch (within the meaning of U.S.
Treasury Regulation Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(5)(iii)). For purposes of
this representation, any stock of Vodafone owned by U.S. persons
immediately after the Merger shall be taken into account, whether or
not such stock was received in exchange for stock or securities of
AirTouch.
26. Fifty percent or less of both the total voting power and total value of
Vodafone Shares will be received in the Merger (treating for this
purpose Excess Shares as received in the Merger by shareholders of
AirTouch), in the aggregate, by U.S. transferors (within the meaning of
U.S. Treasury Regulation Section 1.367(a)-3(1)(5)(v)).
27. No option to acquire AirTouch Common Stock was issued or acquired with
a principal purpose to avoid the general rule of Section 367(a)(1) of
the Code. Options granted to employees as compensation for services to
acquire approximately 24 million shares of AirTouch Common Stock will
be unvested immediately prior to the Effective Time of the Merger.
28. Each of the representations and facts contained in the submissions made
to the Internal Revenue Service on February 2, 1999, February 24, 1999,
March 19, 1999, March 26, 1999 and April 5, 1999 in connection with
AirTouch's and Vodafone's request for a private letter ruling
(collectively, the "IRS Submissions") is true and accurate in all
respects. AirTouch understands Tax Counsel will be relying upon the
accuracy of the factual information contained in the IRS Submissions in
rendering the Tax Opinions. AirTouch is not aware
-6-
<PAGE>
of any reason why it cannot rely on the private letter ruling received
from the Internal Revenue Service, dated April 12, 1999, in connection
with the Merger.
29. The acquisition and/or formation of corporate and partnership joint
ventures is the customary means of organizing and conducting cellular
telephone operations outside the United States.
30. AirTouch has no plan or intention to amend the applicable certificate
of designations, or to take any other action, to eliminate or reduce
the voting rights granted to holders of the Class C Preferred Shares,
the Class D Preferred Shares or the Class E Preferred Shares pursuant
to the Initial Merger.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have, on behalf of AirTouch, signed this
Officer's Certificate this 22nd day of April, 1999.
AIRTOUCH COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
By: /s/ Mohan Gyani
-------------------------------------
Name: Mohan Gyani
-----------------------------------
Title: Executive Vice President
----------------------------------
-7-
<PAGE>
VODAFONE GROUP PUBLIC LIMITED COMPANY OFFICER'S
CERTIFICATE
The undersigned officer of Vodafone Group Public Limited Company, an
English public limited company ("Vodafone"), in connection with the opinions
(the "Tax Opinions") to be delivered by Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver &
Jacobson, a partnership including professional corporations, and Sullivan &
Cromwell (collectively, "Tax Counsel"), included as Exhibits 8(a) and 8(b) to
the Form F-4 Registration Statement (No. 333-___) filed by Vodafone on April 22,
1999 and concerning the Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "Merger Agreement")
dated as of January 15, 1999 among Vodafone, Apollo Merger Sub, Inc., a Delaware
corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of Vodafone ("Merger Sub"), and
AirTouch Communications Inc., a Delaware corporation ("AirTouch") and the
Amended and Restated Agreement and Plan of Merger (the "Initial Merger
Agreement") dated as of January 15, 1999 and amended on April 16, 1999 among
AirTouch and AirTouch Merger Sub, Inc., a Delaware corporation and a wholly
owned subsidiary of AirTouch ("Initial Merger Sub"), and recognizing (1) that
said law firms will rely on this Certificate in delivering the Tax Opinions, (2)
that it will be necessary to provide a written confirmation of each of the
following representations at the Effective Time of the Merger and (3) that the
Tax Opinions may not be accurate if any of the following representations are not
accurate in all respects, hereby certifies on behalf of Vodafone that, to the
extent the following facts and representations relate to Vodafone or Merger Sub,
such representations are true, complete and correct in all respects and, to the
extent the following representations relate to AirTouch or Initial Merger Sub,
the undersigned has no reason to believe such representations are not true
(unless otherwise defined herein, capitalized terms shall have the meanings
ascribed to them in the Merger Agreement):
1. Each of the representations made by Vodafone and the facts relating to the
contemplated Merger of Merger Sub with and into AirTouch pursuant to the
Merger Agreement, as described therein, and in the documents described in
the Merger Agreement relating to the Merger, and in the AirTouch Proxy
Statement, the Vodafone Documents and the Form F-4, are, insofar as such
facts pertain to Vodafone or Merger Sub, true, correct and complete in all
material respects. Other than those described or referenced in the Merger
Agreement, the AirTouch Proxy Statement, the Vodafone Documents, the Form
F-4 or such other written documents that have been previously provided to
Tax Counsel, there are no agreements, arrangements or understandings,
either written or oral, between or among (a) any of Vodafone, its
subsidiaries, affiliates or stockholders; on the one hand, and (b) any of
AirTouch, its subsidiaries, affiliates or stockholders on the other hand,
concerning the Merger or Initial Merger (except for agreements,
arrangements, or understandings among
-1-
<PAGE>
stockholders of Vodafone, on the one hand, and stockholders of AirTouch,
on the other hand, to which the management of Vodafone does not have
knowledge). In rendering the Tax Opinions, we understand that Tax Counsel
will be relying upon the accuracy of the factual information contained in
the AirTouch Proxy Statement, the Vodafone Documents and Form F-4 filed in
connection with the transactions and upon the representations, warranties
and covenants set forth in this Certificate.
2. The Merger will be effected solely in compliance with the terms and
conditions of the Merger Agreement and none of the terms and conditions
thereof relevant to the aforesaid opinions have been waived or modified.
3. The fair market value of the Vodafone Ordinary Shares (including Vodafone
Ordinary Shares represented by Vodafone Depositary Shares) (collectively,
the "Vodafone Shares") and other consideration to be received by each
holder of AirTouch Common Stock will be approximately equal to the fair
market value of the AirTouch Common Stock surrendered in the Merger in
exchange therefor.
4. Neither Vodafone nor any Person related to Vodafone (within the meaning of
U.S. Treasury Regulation Section 1.368-1(e)(3)) will, in connection with
the Merger, or pursuant to a plan or intention in place at the Effective
Time, redeem, purchase or otherwise acquire or effect an acquisition, or
offer to redeem, purchase or otherwise acquire any shares of any class of
stock of AirTouch, or Vodafone Shares issued to shareholders of AirTouch
in the Merger, for consideration other than Vodafone Shares except (a) as
expressly contemplated by the Merger Agreement, (b) with respect to cash
paid by AirTouch to holders of Class C Preferred Shares, (c) pursuant to
open market purchase programs of Vodafone generally available to all
holders of Vodafone Shares, which programs will not be created or modified
in connection with the Merger or (d) in the case of the Class D Preferred
Shares and the Class E Preferred Shares, pursuant to the terms thereof
relating to redemption or maturity or, in the event the Investment
Agreement dated as of April 6, 1998 by and among AirTouch and MediaOne
Group Inc., a Delaware corporation ("MediaOne"), formerly known as U.S.
West Inc., is amended pursuant to that certain letter agreement dated
January 29, 1998 among AirTouch and MediaOne to include the right, subject
to the conditions specified therein, of MediaOne to require AirTouch or
its assignee to purchase the Class D Preferred Shares or Class E Preferred
Shares on the terms specified therein (such right, the "Put Right"),
pursuant to the Put Right.
-2-
<PAGE>
5. Following the Merger, AirTouch will hold at least 90% of the fair market
value of its net assets, and at least 70% of the fair market value of its
gross assets, and at least 90% of the fair market value of Merger Sub's
net assets, and at least 70% of the fair market value of Merger Sub's
gross assets, held immediately prior to the Merger. For purposes of this
representation, amounts paid by AirTouch or Merger Sub to stockholders who
receive cash or other property (including cash paid to holders of the
Series C Preferred Shares), amounts paid by AirTouch to dissenters,
amounts paid by AirTouch to holders of the Puts, assets of AirTouch or
Merger Sub used to pay its reorganization expenses, payments by AirTouch
to its optionees, and all redemptions and distributions (except for
regular, normal dividends) made by AirTouch or Merger Sub immediately
preceding the transfer or pursuant to the Put Right, will be included as
assets of AirTouch or Merger Sub, respectively, held immediately prior to
the Merger.
6. Prior to and at the Effective Time of the Merger, Vodafone will own all of
the outstanding stock of Merger Sub and Merger Sub will not have issued
any options, warrants or similar rights to acquire any of its stock.
7. Vodafone has no plan or intention to cause AirTouch to issue additional
shares of its stock (or any options, warrants or other rights to acquire
any shares of stock of AirTouch) that would result in Vodafone losing
control of AirTouch within the meaning of Section 368(c) of the Code.
8. Vodafone has no plan or intention to liquidate AirTouch; to merge AirTouch
with or into another corporation; to sell or otherwise dispose of the
stock of AirTouch (except for transfers of stock described in United
States Treasury Regulation Section 1.368-2(k)(2)); or to cause AirTouch to
sell or otherwise dispose of any of its assets or any of the assets
acquired from Merger Sub in the Merger, except for dispositions made in
the ordinary course of business, transfers described in Section
368(a)(2)(C) of the Code or, subject to the other representations
contained herein, other dispositions of not more than twenty (20) percent
of AirTouch's assets.
9. Merger Sub will have no liabilities assumed by AirTouch, and will not
transfer to AirTouch any assets subject to liabilities in the Merger.
10. Following the Merger, Vodafone will cause AirTouch and/or members of
Vodafone's "qualified group" (within the meaning of Treasury Regulation
Section 1.368-1(d)(4)(ii)) to continue its historic business or use a
significant portion of its historic business assets in a business (within
the meaning of U.S. Treasury Regulation Section 1.368-1(d)).
-3-
<PAGE>
11. At the Effective Time, the fair market value of the assets of AirTouch
will exceed the sum of its liabilities, plus the amount of liabilities, if
any, to which the assets are subject.
12. Except as set forth in Section 3.9 of the Merger Agreement, Vodafone,
Merger Sub, AirTouch and the stockholders of AirTouch will each pay their
respective expenses, if any, incurred in connection with the Merger.
13. There is no intercorporate indebtedness existing between Vodafone (or its
subsidiaries) and AirTouch (or its subsidiaries), or between Merger Sub
and AirTouch (or its subsidiaries) that was issued, acquired, or will be
settled at a discount.
14. Neither Vodafone nor any person related to Vodafone (within the meaning of
U.S. Treasury Regulation Section 1.368-1(e)(3)) beneficially owns,
directly or indirectly, nor has beneficially owned during the past five
years, directly or indirectly, any shares of any class of stock of
AirTouch.
15. Disregarding stock and securities in its subsidiaries, and treating any
stock or securities owned by its subsidiaries as owned by Vodafone, less
than fifty percent of the value of the total assets of Vodafone are
invested in stocks and securities. For this purpose, a "subsidiary" shall
have the meaning set forth in Section 368(a)(2)(F)(iii) of the Code. Less
than fifty percent of the value of the total assets of Merger Sub are
invested in stocks and securities.
16. The payment of cash to AirTouch stockholders, in lieu of fractional
Vodafone Depositary Shares, represents a mere mechanical rounding off,
solely for the purpose of avoiding the expense and inconvenience to
Vodafone of issuing fractional depositary shares, and does not represent
separately bargained-for consideration. The total cash consideration that
will be paid in the transaction to AirTouch stockholders instead of
issuing fractional Vodafone Depositary Shares will not exceed 1% of the
total consideration that will be issued in the transaction to AirTouch
stockholders in exchange for their shares of AirTouch Common Stock. The
fractional share interests of each AirTouch stockholder will be
aggregated, and no AirTouch stockholder, with the possible exception of
stockholders whose holdings are in separate accounts or with different
brokers, will receive cash in lieu of fractional depositary shares in an
amount greater than one full Vodafone Depositary Share.
17. None of the compensation received by any stockholder-employee of AirTouch
will be separate consideration for, or allocable to, any of such
stockholder-employee's shares of AirTouch Common Stock; none of the
Vodafone Shares received by any stockholder-employee of AirTouch will be
separate
-4-
<PAGE>
consideration for, or allocable to, any employment agreement, and the
compensation paid to any stockholder-employee of AirTouch will be for
services actually rendered or to be rendered and will be commensurate with
amounts paid to third parties bargaining at arm's-length for similar
services.
18. Merger Sub was formed by Vodafone solely for the purpose of effecting the
Merger, Merger Sub has not conducted and is not conducting any business
activities and Merger Sub will have no assets (other than nominal capital)
and no liabilities (other than nominal liabilities and its non-monetary
obligations under the Merger Agreement) prior to the Merger.
19. Neither Vodafone nor any of its affiliates will, directly or indirectly,
supply to AirTouch any amounts in respect of payments AirTouch may be
required to make to dissenters to the Merger, to, or on behalf of, it
shareholders in respect of amounts referred to in Section 3.9 of the
Merger Agreement, to holders of the Series C Preferred Shares, or to
holders of the Series D Preferred Shares or Series E Preferred Shares in
respect of the exercise of the Put Right, nor will Vodafone or any of its
affiliates, directly or indirectly, reimburse AirTouch for any such
payments, or for any repayments on debt which AirTouch may issue to fund
any such payments. Neither Vodafone nor any of its affiliates shall
provide any guarantee or other credit support in respect of any such debt.
20. Vodafone's corporate business reasons for consummating the Merger are as
set forth on pages 32 and 33 of the Form F-4.
21. The AirTouch shareholders receiving Vodafone Shares in the Merger will not
receive any poison pill rights in connection with the Vodafone Shares.
22. On or about April 6, 1998, at the time U.S. West PCS Holdings Inc. and
U.S. West new Vector Group, Inc. merged with and into AirTouch, neither
Vodafone nor any affiliate of Vodafone had any plan or intention to
acquire AirTouch.
23. Vodafone will, at the Effective Time of the Merger, satisfy the
requirements set forth in U.S. Treasury Regulation Section
1.367(a)-3(c)(3)(i)(A). None of Vodafone's assets, and no assets of any
qualified subsidiary of Vodafone or any qualified partnership (as defined
in U.S. Treasury Regulation Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(5)(viii)) in which
Vodafone is a partner, that were acquired in the 36-month period preceding
the effective time of the Merger will have been acquired outside the
ordinary course of business or with a purpose of satisfying the test
contained in U.S. Treasury Regulation Section 1.367(a)-3(C)(3)(iii)(A).
The acquisition and/or formation of corporate and partnership joint
ventures is the customary means of organizing and conducting cellular
telephone operations
-5-
<PAGE>
outside of the United States.
24. Immediately prior to the Effective Time, there will be outstanding not
less than 3.097 billion shares of Vodafone Ordinary Shares, excluding for
this purpose any Vodafone Ordinary Shares that could be issued pursuant to
outstanding options, warrants, convertible securities or any other type of
right pursuant to which any person could acquire Vodafone Shares.
25. In the Merger, shares of AirTouch Common Stock representing more than 80%
of the total voting power of all outstanding shares of AirTouch stock at
the Effective Time of the Merger will be exchanged for Vodafone Shares.
For purposes of this representation, shares of AirTouch exchanged for cash
originating with Vodafone or any person related to Vodafone (within the
meaning of U.S. Treasury Regulation Section 1.368-1(e)(3)) will be treated
as outstanding AirTouch stock on the date of the Merger.
26. Neither Vodafone, Merger Sub, nor, after the Merger, AirTouch, will take
any position on any federal, state or local income or franchise tax
return, or take any other reporting position, that is inconsistent with
any of the foregoing representations, the treatment of the Merger as a
reorganization within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code or the
treatment of the exchange of AirTouch Common Stock solely for Vodafone
Shares as a nonrecognition transaction (except, with respect to such
exchange, with respect to any shareholder of AirTouch who, immediately
after the Merger will be a "five-percent transferee shareholder" with
respect to Vodafone within the meaning of U.S. Treasury Regulation Section
1.367(a)-3(c)(5)), unless otherwise required by a "determination" (as
defined in Section 1313(a)(1) of the Code) or by applicable state or local
income or franchise tax law.
27. Fifty percent or less of both the total voting power and total value of
Vodafone Shares will be received in the Merger (treating for this purpose
Excess Shares as received in the Merger by shareholders of AirTouch), in
the aggregate, by U.S. transferors (within the meaning of U.S. Treasury
Regulation Section 1.367(a)-3(1)(5)(v)).
28. Each of the representations and facts contained in the submissions made to
the Internal Revenue Service on February 2, 1999, February 24, 1999, March
19, 1999, March 26, 1999 and April 5, 1999 in connection with AirTouch's
and Vodafone's request for a private letter ruling (collectively, the "IRS
Submissions") is true and accurate in all respects. Vodafone understands
Tax Counsel will be relying upon the accuracy of the factual information
contained in the IRS Submissions in rendering the Tax Opinions. Vodafone
is not aware
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<PAGE>
of any reason why it cannot rely on the private letter ruling received
from the Internal Revenue Service, dated April 12, 1999, in connection
with the Merger.
29. Vodafone has no plan or intention to cause AirTouch to amend the
applicable certificate of designations, or to take any other action, to
eliminate or reduce the voting rights granted to holders of the Class C
Preferred Shares, the Class D Preferred Shares or the Class E Preferred
Shares pursuant to the Initial Merger.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have, on behalf of Vodafone, signed this Officer's
Certificate this 22 day of April, 1999.
VODAFONE GROUP PUBLIC LIMITED
COMPANY
By: /s/ Stephen R. Scott
-------------------------------------
Name: Stephen R. Scott
-----------------------------------
Title: Company Secretary
----------------------------------
-7-
<PAGE>
AGREEMENT
Dated 16th April, 1999
U.S.$10,500,000,000
TERM AND REVOLVING CREDIT FACILITY
for
VODAFONE GROUP Plc
and
AIRTOUCH COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
arranged by
BANK OF AMERICA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
BANQUE NATIONALE DE PARIS
BARCLAYS CAPITAL
CITIBANK, N.A.
DEUTSCHE BANK AG LONDON
GOLDMAN SACHS INTERNATIONAL
GREENWICH NATWEST LIMITED
HSBC INVESTMENT BANK plc
ING BARINGS
NATIONAL AUSTRALIA BANK LIMITED
and
WESTDEUTSCHE LANDESBANK GIROZENTRALE
with
NATIONAL WESTMINSTER BANK Plc
as Agent and
U.S. Swingline Agent
ALLEN & OVERY
London
<PAGE>
INDEX
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLAUSE PAGE
----
<S> <C>
1. Interpretation.......................................................................................1
2. The Facilities......................................................................................21
3. Purpose.............................................................................................25
4. Conditions Precedent................................................................................25
5. Advances............................................................................................27
6. Repayment...........................................................................................30
7. Prepayment and Cancellation.........................................................................32
8. Interest............................................................................................36
9. Payments............................................................................................42
10. Taxes...............................................................................................44
11. Market Disruption...................................................................................48
12. Increased Costs.....................................................................................49
13. Illegality and Mitigation...........................................................................51
14. Guarantee...........................................................................................51
15. Representations and Warranties......................................................................54
16. Undertakings........................................................................................58
17. Financial Covenants.................................................................................62
18. Default.............................................................................................66
19. The Agents and the Arrangers........................................................................69
20. Fees................................................................................................74
21. Expenses............................................................................................76
22. Stamp Duties........................................................................................76
23. Indemnities.........................................................................................77
24. Evidence and Calculations...........................................................................79
25. Amendments and Waivers..............................................................................80
26. Changes to the Parties..............................................................................81
27. Disclosure of Information...........................................................................85
28. Set-off.............................................................................................85
29. Pro Rata Sharing....................................................................................86
30. Severability........................................................................................87
31. Counterparts........................................................................................87
32. Notices.............................................................................................87
33. Language............................................................................................88
34. Jurisdiction........................................................................................89
35. Governing Law.......................................................................................90
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
SCHEDULE PAGE
----
<S> <C>
1. Part I -Lenders and Commitments.....................................................................91
Part II -Swingline Lenders and Swingline Commitments................................................92
2. Conditions Precedent Documents......................................................................93
Part I -To be Delivered before the First Advance....................................................93
Part II -To be Delivered by AirTouch if it becomes an Additional Guarantor..........................95
Part III -To be Delivered by an Additional Guarantor (other than AirTouch)..........................97
3. Calculation of the Mandatory Cost...................................................................99
4. Form of Request....................................................................................101
5. Forms of Accession Documents.......................................................................103
Part I -Novation Certificate.......................................................................103
Part II -Guarantor Accession Agreement.............................................................105
Part III -Form of Borrower Novation Agreement......................................................106
6. Form of Confidentiality Undertaking from New Lender................................................108
SIGNATORIES.................................................................................................111
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
THIS AGREEMENT is dated [ ]April, 1999 and made BETWEEN:
(1) VODAFONE GROUP Plc (Registered number 1833679) and AIRTOUCH
COMMUNICATIONS, INC. as borrowers (the "BORROWERS");
(2) BANK OF AMERICA INTERNATIONAL LIMITED, BANQUE NATIONALE DE PARIS,
BARCLAYS CAPITAL, CITIBANK, N.A., DEUTSCHE BANK AG LONDON, GOLDMAN
SACHS INTERNATIONAL, GREENWICH NATWEST LIMITED, HSBC INVESTMENT BANK
plc, ING BARINGS, NATIONAL AUSTRALIA BANK LIMITED (ACN OO4 044 937),
and WESTDEUTSCHE LANDESBANK GIROZENTRALE as arrangers (in this capacity
the "ARRANGERS");
(3) THE FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS listed in Part I of Schedule 1 as Lenders;
(4) NATIONAL WESTMINSTER BANK Plc as agent (in this capacity the "AGENT");
and
(5) NATIONAL WESTMINSTER BANK Plc as U.S. swingline agent (in this capacity
the "U.S. SWINGLINE AGENT").
IT IS AGREED as follows:
1. INTERPRETATION
1.1 DEFINITIONS
In this Agreement:
"ACQUISITION"
means the acquisition of any interest in the share capital (or
equivalent) or in the business or undertaking of any company or other
person (including, without limitation, any partnership or joint
venture).
"ADDITIONAL GUARANTOR"
means AirTouch or any member of the Group if AirTouch or such member of
the Group at such time has become a Guarantor in accordance with Clause
26.4 (Additional Guarantors) and has not been released in accordance
with Clause 14.9 (Removal of Guarantors).
"ADVANCE"
means a Tranche A Advance, a Tranche B Advance, a Tranche C Advance or
a Swingline Advance.
"AFFILIATE"
(a) means a Subsidiary or a holding company (as defined in Section
736 of the Companies Act 1985) of a person and any other
Subsidiary of that holding company; and
(b) for the purposes of this Agreement Goldman Sachs International
Bank and Goldman Sachs Credit Partners, L.P. will be treated
as Affiliates of each other.
<PAGE>
"AGENT'S SPOT RATE OF EXCHANGE"
means the spot rate of exchange as determined by the Agent for the
purchase of the relevant Optional Currency in the London foreign
exchange market with U.S. Dollars at or about 9:00 a.m. on a particular
day.
"AGREED PERCENTAGE"
means in relation to a Lender and a Swingline Advance, the amount of
its Tranche C Commitment expressed as a percentage of the Tranche C
Total Commitments.
"AIRTOUCH"
means AirTouch Communications, Inc.
"AIRTOUCH GROUP"
means AirTouch and its Subsidiaries.
"ANNIVERSARY"
means an anniversary of the Signing Date.
"ASSET DISPOSAL"
means any sale, transfer, grant, lease or other disposal of an asset
(including, but not limited to, a disposal of any interest in any
Subsidiary or Affiliate) by any member of the Group to a person outside
the Group made after the Signing Date.
"BACK TO BACK LOAN"
means any Financial Indebtedness made available to a member of the
Restricted Group to the extent that the economic exposure of the
creditor in respect of that Financial Indebtedness (taking any related
transactions together) is reduced by reason of that creditor:
(a) having recourse directly or indirectly to a deposit of cash or
cash equivalent investments beneficially owned by any member
of the Restricted Group placed, as part of a related
transaction, with that creditor (or an affiliate of that
creditor) or a financial institution approved by that
creditor; or
(b) having granted a funded sub-participation or similar
arrangement to a member of the Restricted Group.
"BORROWERS' AGENT"
means Vodafone.
"BUSINESS DAY"
means a day (other than a Saturday or Sunday) on which banks and the
interbank and foreign exchange markets are open for business in:
(a) London; and
<PAGE>
(b) if a payment is required in U.S. Dollars, New York,
but, in relation to a rate fixing for euros, means a day on which the
Trans-European Automated Real-Time Gross Settlement Express Transfer
System (TARGET) is operating.
"COMMITMENT"
means, in respect of a Lender, the aggregate of its Tranche A
Commitment, its Tranche B Commitment and its Tranche C Commitment
(including its Swingline Commitment, if applicable, but without double
counting), in each case to the extent not transferred, cancelled or
reduced under or in accordance with this Agreement.
"CONTROLLED GROUP"
means all members of a controlled group of corporations and all trades
or businesses (whether or not incorporated) under common control which,
together with any Obligor, are treated as a single employer under
Section 414(b) or (c) of the U.S. Code.
"DEFAULT"
means an Event of Default or an event which, with the expiry of any
grace period or giving of any notice specified in Clause 18.2, 18.3,
18.5, 18.6, 18.8 or 18.10 would constitute an Event of Default.
"DRAWDOWN DATE"
means the date for the making of an Advance.
"EMU"
means Economic and Monetary Union as contemplated by the Treaty.
"EMU LEGISLATION"
means legislative measures of the European Council for the introduction
of, changeover to, or operation of, a single or unified European
currency.
"ERISA"
means the U.S. Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, as
amended, and any rule or regulation issued thereunder from time to time
in effect.
"EURO" OR "EUROS"
means the single currency introduced on 1st January, 1999 as
contemplated by the Treaty.
"EURO UNIT"
means a unit of the euro as defined in EMU legislation.
<PAGE>
"EVENT OF DEFAULT"
means an event specified as such in Clause 18 (Default).
"FACILITY"
means any of the facilities to draw Tranche A Advances, Tranche B
Advances, Tranche C Advances or Swingline Advances referred to in
Clause 2.1 (Facilities).
"FACILITY OFFICE"
means the office(s) notified by a Lender to the Agent:
(a) on or before the date it becomes a Lender; or
(b) by not less than five Business Days' notice,
as the office(s) through which it will perform all or any of its
obligations under this Agreement.
"FEDERAL FUNDS RATE"
means, on any day:
(a) the rate per annum determined by the U.S. Swingline Agent to
be the Federal Funds Rate (as published by the Federal Reserve
Bank of New York) at or about 1.00 p.m. (New York City time)
on that day; or
(b) if such rate is not published at such time, the rate for such
day will be the arithmetic mean as determined by the Swingline
Agent of the rates for the last transaction in overnight
Federal funds arranged prior to noon (New York City time) on
that day by each of three leading brokers of Federal funds
transactions in New York City selected by the Swingline Agent.
"FEE LETTERS"
means each letter dated on or about the Signing Date:
(a) between the Agent and Vodafone; and
(b) between the Arrangers and Vodafone,
in each case setting out the amount of various fees referred to in
Clause 20 (Fees).
"FINAL MATURITY DATE"
means the fifth Anniversary.
"FINANCE DOCUMENT"
means this Agreement, each Fee Letter, Novation Certificate, and
Guarantor Accession Agreement, a Borrower Novation Agreement (as
defined in Clause 26.5(b)(iv) (Novation of
<PAGE>
AirTouch's obligations)) and any other document agreed in writing as
such by the Agent and the Borrowers' Agent.
"FINANCE PARTY"
means an Arranger, a Lender, the Agent or the U.S. Swingline Agent.
"FINANCIAL INDEBTEDNESS"
means any indebtedness in respect of:
(a) moneys borrowed or raised;
(b) any debenture, bond, note, loan stock, commercial paper or similar
instrument;
(c) any acceptance credit, bill-discounting, note purchase or
documentary credit facility;
(d) any finance lease;
(e) any receivables purchase, factoring or discounting arrangement
under which there is recourse in whole or in part to any member
of the Group;
(f) any other transaction having the commercial effect of a borrowing
or other raising of money entered into by a person to finance its
business or operations or capital requirements; or
(g) any guarantees or other legally binding assurance against
financial loss in respect of the indebtedness of any person
arising under an obligation falling within (a) to (f) above,
but without double counting and excluding preference shares redeemable
only after the Final Maturity Date.
"GROUP"
means Vodafone and its Subsidiaries.
"GUARANTOR"
means each of:
(a) Vodafone; and
(b) each Additional Guarantor.
"GUARANTOR ACCESSION AGREEMENT"
means a deed substantially in the form of Part II of Schedule 5 or with
such amendments as the Agent may approve (such approval not to be
unreasonably withheld or delayed) or may reasonably require.
<PAGE>
"HOLDING COMPANY"
means in relation to a person, an entity of which that person is a
Subsidiary.
"INFORMATION MEMORANDUM"
means the Information Memorandum dated 1st March, 1999 prepared by
Vodafone and delivered to the Arrangers in connection with this
Agreement.
"INTEREST DATE"
means the last day of an Interest Period.
"INTEREST PERIOD"
in respect of a Tranche B Advance or a Term-out Advance, has the
meaning given to it in Clause 8.1 (Selection of Interest Periods for
Tranche B and Term-out Advances).
"LENDER"
means a financial institution or other entity listed in Part I or Part
II of Schedule 1 or a transferee, successor or assign of such financial
institution or other entity which is for the time being participating
in the Facilities.
"LIBOR"
means in relation to any Advance or unpaid sum:
(a) the rate per annum of the offered quotation for deposits in
the currency of the relevant Advance or unpaid sum for a
period equal or comparable to the required period which
appears on Telerate Page 3750 or Telerate Page 3740 (as
appropriate) at or about 11.00 a.m. on the applicable Rate
Fixing Day; or
(b) if the rate cannot be determined under paragraph (a) above, or
in the case of an Advance (or Advances drawn down or rolled
over on the same day) exceeding U.S.$5,000,000,000 or
equivalent during the Primary Syndication Period and
U.S.$4,000,000,000 or equivalent thereafter, the rate
expressed as a percentage determined by the Agent to be the
arithmetic mean (rounded upwards, if necessary, to the nearest
five decimal places) of the respective rates notified to the
Agent by each of the Reference Banks quoting (provided that at
least two Reference Banks are quoting) as the rate at which it
is offered deposits in the required currency and for the
required period by prime banks in the London interbank market
at or about 11.00 a.m. on the Rate Fixing Day for such period,
and for the purposes of this definition:
(i) "REQUIRED PERIOD" means the applicable Interest Period for a
Tranche B Advance or Term-out Advance, the Term of such
Advance for Tranche A Advances (except Term-out Advances) and
Tranche C Advances, or the period in respect of which LIBOR
falls to be determined in relation to any unpaid sum; and
<PAGE>
(ii) "TELERATE PAGE 3750" means the display designated as Page
3750, and "TELERATE PAGE 3740" means the display designated as
Page 3740, in each case on the Telerate Service (or such other
pages as may replace page 3750 or Page 3740 on that service or
such other service as may be nominated by the British Bankers'
Association (including the Reuters Screen) as the information
vendor for the purposes of displaying British Bankers'
Association Interest Settlement Rates for deposits in the
currency concerned).
"MAJORITY LENDERS"
means, at any time:
(a) Lenders whose Commitments aggregate more than 66 2/3 per cent.
of the Total Commitments; or
(b) if the Total Commitments have been reduced to zero, Lenders
whose Commitments aggregated more than 66 2/3 per cent. of the
Total Commitments immediately before the reduction.
"MANDATORY COST"
means in relation to an Advance (other than a Swingline Advance), the
cost (if any) of compliance with the cash ratio deposit requirements of
the Bank of England and the amount (if any) of fees payable to the
Financial Services Authority during its Term or Interest Period,
determined in accordance with Schedule 3.
"MARGIN"
in relation to a Tranche at any time means the percentage rate per
annum determined to be the Margin applicable to that Tranche in
accordance with Clause 8.6 (Margin and commitment fee).
"MATURITY DATE"
means the last day of the Term of:
(a) a Tranche A Advance (except a Term-out Advance);
(b) a Tranche C Advance; or
(c) a Swingline Advance,
and, in the case of a Term-out Advance, means the date specified as
such in the Request for that Advance.
"MERGER"
means the merger of Apollo Merger Sub, Inc. (a wholly owned Subsidiary
of Vodafone) with AirTouch in accordance with the Merger Agreement.
<PAGE>
"MERGER AGREEMENT"
means the agreement and plan of merger between Vodafone, AirTouch and
Apollo Merger Sub, Inc. (a wholly owned Subsidiary of Vodafone) dated
15th January, 1999, providing for the merger of Apollo Merger Sub, Inc.
with and into AirTouch.
"MERGER DATE"
means the date the Merger becomes effective in accordance with Section
1.2.2 of the Merger Agreement.
"MOODY'S"
means Moody's Investors' Services, Inc.
"MULTIEMPLOYER PLAN"
means a "multiemployer plan" as defined in Section 4001(a)(3) of ERISA
to which any Obligor or any member of the Controlled Group has an
obligation to contribute.
"NATIONAL CURRENCY UNIT"
means the unit of currency (other than a euro unit) of a Treaty
Country.
"NET AVAILABLE PROCEEDS"
means, in relation to any Asset Disposal, such part of the Net Cash
Proceeds as any Borrower is able lawfully to apply in prepayment of
Advances and, in the case of any such disposal effected by any
Subsidiary of Vodafone other than a Borrower, such part of the Net Cash
Proceeds as:
(a) such Subsidiary would be able lawfully to make available,
directly or indirectly, to any Borrower to enable it to make
such application;
(b) that Borrower is able lawfully to so apply;
(c) in the case of a disposal outside the United Kingdom or United
States, Vodafone has reasonably determined can be repatriated
to a Borrower in order to apply the same in prepayment of
Advances without breaching any relevant exchange control or
similar restrictions in the country where the Net Cash
Proceeds are received or receivable by the relevant member of
the Group,
provided that in each case the relevant member of the Group takes all
steps that are reasonably open to it to obtain any exchange control
clearance or other consents, permits, authorisations or licences which
are required to enable the Net Cash Proceeds to be repatriated to, and
applied by, a Borrower in order to effect such a prepayment.
"NET BOND PROCEEDS"
means any proceeds (net of fees and expenses) received by or for the
account of Vodafone from any bond or capital market debt issue made by
or guaranteed by Vodafone or any other member of the Restricted Group
which, in the case of a Subsidiary of Vodafone, such
<PAGE>
Subsidiary would be able lawfully to make available to a Borrower to
enable it to apply the same in prepayment of Advances and such Borrower
is able lawfully so to apply.
"NET CASH PROCEEDS"
means, in relation to any Asset Disposal, (i) the cash proceeds of such
disposal actually received by the member of the Group concerned from a
person outside the Group and (ii) as at the date of actual receipt
thereof by the relevant member of the Group, any deferred cash
consideration relating to such disposal from a person outside the
Group, LESS:
(a) all legal, title, registration and recording and other taxes
and expenses, commissions, costs, fees and expenses incidental
to, incurred on and fairly attributable to, that Asset
Disposal;
(b) such amount as Vodafone shall reasonably consider necessary as
provision against the liability of any member of the Group to
pay any tax arising as a result of that Asset Disposal;
(c) in the case of a disposal effected by a Subsidiary of
Vodafone, such provision as Vodafone shall reasonably consider
necessary for all costs and taxes incurred by the Group and
fairly attributable to up-streaming the cash or cash
equivalent proceeds or making any distribution to enable them
to reach a Borrower (including, without limitation, the
repayment of Financial Indebtedness related to the assets the
subject of the Asset Disposal which are required to be repaid
in order to complete the Asset Disposal);
(d) in the case of a disposal by a Subsidiary that is not a wholly
owned Subsidiary of Vodafone, the pro rata share of such cash
proceeds attributable to the minority interests in that
Subsidiary; and
(e) in the case of a disposal comprising a finance lease as
described in Clause 16.8(f) (Priority borrowings), future
rental payments (and any other amounts deducted under
paragraphs (a) to (d) above).
"NEW YORK BUSINESS DAY"
means a day (other than a Saturday or Sunday) on which banks are open
for business in New York.
"NOVATION CERTIFICATE"
has the meaning given to it in Clause 26.3(a)(i) (Procedure for
novations).
"OBLIGOR"
means each Borrower and each Guarantor.
"OPTIONAL CURRENCY"
means, in relation to any Advance or proposed Advance, Sterling or
euros.
<PAGE>
"ORIGINAL DOLLAR AMOUNT"
means:
(a) the principal amount of an Advance denominated in U.S.
Dollars; or
(b) the principal amount of an Advance denominated in any other
currency, translated into U.S. Dollars on the basis of the
Agent's Spot Rate of Exchange on the date of receipt by the
Agent of the Request for that Advance.
"ORIGINAL GROUP ACCOUNTS"
means the audited consolidated accounts of the Group for the year ended
31st March, 1998.
"PARTY"
means a party to this Agreement.
"PBGC"
means the Pension Benefit Guaranty Corporation referred to and defined
in ERISA, or any successor.
"PERMITTED SECURITY INTEREST"
means:
(a) Security Interests arising out of retention of title
provisions or created or subsisting over documents of title,
insurance policies (including any export credit agencies'
agreements) and sale contracts in relation to commercial goods
in each case created or made in the ordinary course of
business to secure the purchase price of such goods or loans
to finance such purchase price; or
(b) any Security Interests over any assets acquired by a member of
the Restricted Group after the date of this Agreement (or over
the assets of any person, except AirTouch and its existing
Subsidiaries, that is acquired by and becomes a member of the
Restricted Group after the date of this Agreement) provided
that:
(i) any such Security Interest is in existence before the
acquisition and is not created in contemplation of
the acquisition; and
(ii) to the extent that the aggregate principal amount
secured by such Security Interests upon the
acquisition is thereafter exceeded (measured in the
same currency) such Security Interest shall not fall
within this paragraph (b); or
(c) any Security Interest created for the purpose of securing
obligations of Vodafone or any member of the Restricted Group
under any agreement (including, without limitation, any
agreement under Section 106 of the Town and County Planning
Act 1990 or Section 111 of the Local Government Act 1972)
entered into with a local or other public authority and
related to the development or maintenance of property owned by
Vodafone or any member of the Restricted Group; or
<PAGE>
(d) any Security Interest created on or subsisting over any asset
held in the Euro-Clear System, Cedelbank or any other
securities depository or any clearing house pursuant to the
standard terms and procedures of the relevant clearing house
applicable in the normal course of trading; or
(e) any Security Interest which arises in connection with any cash
management, set-off or netting arrangements made between banks
or financial institutions and any member(s) of the Restricted
Group in the ordinary course of business; or
(f) any Security Interest created in favour of a plaintiff or
defendant in any action of the court or tribunal before whom
such action is brought as pre-judgement security for costs or
expenses where any member of the Restricted Group is
prosecuting or defending such action in the bona fide interest
of the Group; or
(g) any Security Interest created pursuant to any order of
attachment, distraint, garnishee order, arrestment,
adjudication or injunction or interdict restraining disposal
of assets or similar legal process arising in connection with
pre-judgement court proceedings; or
(h) any Security Interest which arises by operation of law in the
ordinary course of trading and securing an amount not more
than 45 days overdue or which is being contested in good faith
on the basis of favourable legal advice; or
(i) any Security Interests over shares in entities which are not
members of the Restricted Group which do not secure Financial
Indebtedness of the Restricted Group; or
(j) to the extent they constitute Security Interests (or to the
extent that the relevant transaction includes the creation of
any Security Interest over the assets which are the subject of
the finance lease), finance leases in respect of existing or
future assets as contemplated by paragraph (f) of Clause 16.8
(Priority borrowing); or
(k) any Security Interest comprising a right of set-off which
arises by operation of law or by agreement having
substantially the same effect; or
(l) any Security Interest for taxes, assessments or charges not
yet due or that are being contested in good faith by
appropriate proceedings and (unless the amount thereof is not
material to the Group's consolidated financial condition) for
which adequate reserves are being maintained (in accordance
with generally accepted accounting principles); or
(m) deposits or pledges to secure obligations under workers'
compensation, social security or similar laws, or under
unemployment insurance; or
(n) any Security Interests created with the prior written consent
of the Majority Lenders; or
(o) any Security Interests over deposits of cash or cash
equivalent investments securing (directly or indirectly)
Financial Indebtedness under (i) finance or structured tax
lease arrangements as described in paragraph (b) of Clause
16.8 (Priority borrowing) or (ii) Back to Back Loans; or
(p) any Security Interest (a "SUBSTITUTE SECURITY INTEREST") which
replaces any other Security Interest permitted under (a) to
(o) above inclusive and which secures an
<PAGE>
amount not exceeding the principal amount secured by such
permitted Security Interest at the time it is replaced
together with any interest accruing on such amounts from the
date such substitute Security Interest is created or arises
and any related fees or expenses provided that the existing
Security Interest to be replaced is released and all amounts
secured thereby are paid or otherwise discharged in full at or
prior to the time of such substitute Security Interest being
created or arising; or
(q) any other Security Interests (in addition to those listed in
(a) to (p) above) where the aggregate principal amount secured
by all such Security Interests does not exceed
(pound)500,000,000 or its equivalent.
"PLAN"
means an "employee benefit plan" (as defined in section 3(3) of ERISA).
"PRIMARY SYNDICATION PERIOD"
means the period ending on the earlier of:
(a) the date the Arrangers notify the Borrowers' Agent that
general syndication of the Facilities is completed (which the
Arrangers shall do as soon as reasonably practicable after
completion of general syndication); and
(b) three months after launch of sub-underwriting of the
Facilities.
"PRIME RATE"
means the prime commercial lending rate for U.S. Dollars from time to
time announced by the U.S. Swingline Agent; each change in the interest
rate on a Swingline Advance which results from a change in the Prime
Rate becomes effective on the day on which the change in the Prime Rate
becomes effective.
"PRINCIPAL SUBSIDIARY"
means AirTouch and any Subsidiary of Vodafone which is a member of the
Restricted Group whose unconsolidated profits before interest,
amortisation and tax exceed 10 per cent. of Consolidated Profits Before
Interest, Amortisation and Tax, as determined by reference to the most
recent annual audited financial statements of such Subsidiary and the
most recent annual audited financial statements of the Group. For the
purposes of this definition:
(a) profits before interest, amortisation and tax of the relevant
Subsidiary will be calculated in the same manner as
Consolidated Profits Before Interest, Amortisation and Tax in
Clause 17.1 (Financial Definitions), but as if references in
the definition of Consolidated Profits Before Interest,
Amortisation and Tax to the "GROUP" were references to that
Subsidiary;
(b) any Subsidiary of AirTouch which will become a Principal
Subsidiary after the Merger Date will be deemed to be a
Principal Subsidiary prior to the Merger Date;
(c) if any Principal Subsidiary sells, transfers or otherwise
disposes of the majority of its undertaking or assets (whether
by a single transaction or a number of related transactions)
to any member of the Restricted Group:
<PAGE>
(i) that member of the Restricted Group shall be deemed
to become a Principal Subsidiary on the date of the
relevant sale, transfer or disposal; and
(ii) any Principal Subsidiary which sells, transfers or
otherwise disposes of the majority of its undertaking
or assets (whether by a single transaction or a
number of related transactions) shall no longer be a
Principal Subsidiary on the date of the relevant
sale, transfer or disposal,
until the Principal Subsidiaries are next determined from the
annual audited financial statements referred to above;
(d) any Subsidiary of Vodafone which will cease to be a Principal
Subsidiary after the Merger Date will, in the period before
the Merger Date, be deemed not to be a Principal Subsidiary;
and
(e) during the period from the Merger Date until the first annual
audited accounts of the Group (consolidated to include the
AirTouch Group) are published, the consolidated profits before
interest, amortisation and tax of the AirTouch Group
(calculated in the same manner as Consolidated Profits before
Interest, Amortisation and Tax in Clause 17.1 (Financial
Definitions), but as if references in the definition of
Consolidated Profits before Interest, Amortisation and Tax to
the "GROUP" were references to the AirTouch Group, and
determined by reference to the most recent annual audited
accounts of the AirTouch Group) will be added to Consolidated
Profits before Interest, Amortisation and Tax (calculated as
described in the first paragraph of this definition).
"QUALIFYING LENDER"
means a bank or financial institution which is:
(a) a bank as defined in Section 840A of the Income and
Corporation Taxes Act 1988 which is within the charge to
corporation tax as regards each payment of interest received
by it under this Agreement and which is beneficially entitled
to that interest; or
(b) a person (a "TREATY LENDER") which is (i) resident (as such
term is defined in the appropriate double taxation treaty) in
a country with which the United Kingdom has an appropriate
double taxation treaty under which residents of that country
are entitled to complete exemption from United Kingdom tax on
interest and is entitled to apply under the Double Taxation
Relief (Taxes on Income) (General) Regulations 1970 to have
interest paid to its Facility Office without withholding or
deduction for or on account of United Kingdom taxation and
(ii) does not carry on business in the United Kingdom through
a permanent establishment with which the investments under
this Agreement in respect of which the interest is paid are
effectively connected; and for this purpose "DOUBLE TAXATION
TREATY" means any convention or agreement between the
government of the United Kingdom and any other government for
the avoidance of double taxation and the prevention of fiscal
evasion with respect to taxes on income and capital gains.
<PAGE>
"RATE FIXING DAY"
means:
(a) the Drawdown Date for an Advance denominated in Sterling (or,
in the case of a Tranche B Advance or Term-out Advance
denominated in Sterling, the first day of each applicable
Interest Period); or
(b) the second Business Day before the Drawdown Date for an
Advance denominated in a currency other than Sterling (or, in
the case of a Tranche B Advance or Term-out Advance
denominated in a currency other than Sterling, the second
Business Day before the first day of each applicable Interest
Period),
or such other day as the Agent, after consultation with Vodafone and
the Lenders, may designate as market practice in the relevant interbank
market for leading banks to give quotations in the relevant currency
for delivery on the relevant Drawdown Date (or on the first day of the
relevant Interest Period).
"REFERENCE BANKS"
means, subject to Clause 26.6 (Reference Banks), the principal London
offices of National Westminster Bank Plc, Citibank, N.A., Deutsche Bank
AG London and HSBC Investment Bank plc.
"REGULATIONS D, T, U AND X"
means, respectively, regulations D, T, U and X of the Board of
Governors of the Federal Reserve System of the United States (or any
successor).
"RELEVANT TAX"
means a tax imposed or levied by or in (or by any political
sub-division or taxing authority of any of the following):
(a) the UK;
(b) (until AirTouch ceases to be a Borrower in accordance with
Clause 26.5 (Novation of AirTouch's obligations)), the United
States; or
(c) any jurisdiction in or through which any payment under the
Finance Documents is made.
"REPORTABLE EVENT"
means a reportable event as defined in Section 4043 of ERISA and the
regulations issued under such section with respect to a Plan,
excluding, however, such events as to which the PBGC by regulation
waived the requirement of Section 4043(a) of ERISA that it be notified
within 30 days of the occurrence of such event, provided, however, that
a failure to meet the minimum funding standard of Section 412 of the
U.S. Code and of Section 302 of ERISA shall be a Reportable Event
regardless of the issuance of any such waiver of the notice requirement
in accordance with either Section 4043(a) of ERISA or Section 412(d) of
the U.S. Code.
<PAGE>
"REQUEST"
means a request made by a Borrower to utilise a Facility, substantially
in the form of Schedule 4 (or in such other form as may be agreed by
the Agent and the Borrowers' Agent).
"REQUESTED AMOUNT"
means the amount requested in a Request.
"RESERVE ASSET COSTS"
means:
(a) in relation to any Advance for any period, Mandatory Cost (to
the extent notified by any Lender in accordance with Clause
8.2(c) (Interest rate for all Advances) as applicable to that
Advance);
(b) in relation to any Advance denominated in U.S. Dollars to
AirTouch made available by a United States incorporated Lender
or a United States branch of a non-United States incorporated
Lender, the cost, if any, notified by that Lender to the Agent
as the cost to it of complying with Regulation D attributable
to such Advance; and
(c) in relation to any Advance for any period, the cost, if any,
notified by any Lender to the Agent as the cost to it of
complying with the reserve asset and other regulatory
requirements of the European Central Bank in relation to that
Advance or any class of loans of which that Advance forms
part,
but no Lender is entitled to receive an amount under more than one of
the above paragraphs in respect of the same Advance for the same period
unless there is a change in, or introduction of, any relevant law or
regulation after the Signing Date.
"RESTRICTED GROUP"
means Vodafone, AirTouch and any Subsidiary of AirTouch and/or
Vodafone:
(a) whose principal operations or assets are located in a Core
Jurisdiction; and/or
(b) whose revenues are primarily generated by operations licensed
by telecommunications authorities in Core Jurisdictions,
but excludes any Subsidiary whose principal business is satellite
telecommunications. "CORE JURISDICTIONS" are member states of the
European Union as at 31st December, 1998 (being Austria, Belgium,
Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Luxembourg,
Netherlands, Portugal, Spain, Sweden and the UK), Japan, United States,
Australia, New Zealand, Canada and Switzerland.
"ROLLOVER ADVANCE"
means any Tranche A Advance made during the Tranche A Availability
Period or any Tranche C Advance which in either case is drawn down to
refinance in whole or in part any outstanding Tranche A Advance or
Tranche C Advance where, after making and applying the proceeds of that
Advance, no Lender will have an aggregate principal amount outstanding
and owed to it under Tranche A or, as the case may be, Tranche C which
is greater than
<PAGE>
the aggregate amount owed to it under that Tranche immediately prior to
that Advance being made.
"S&P"
means Standard & Poor's Corporation.
"SECURITY INTEREST"
means any mortgage, charge, assignment by way of security, pledge, lien
or other security interest securing any obligation of any person.
"SIGNING DATE"
means the date of this Agreement.
"SINGLE EMPLOYER PLAN"
means a Plan which is maintained by any Obligor or any member of the
Controlled Group for employees of Vodafone or any member of the
Controlled Group.
"SUBSIDIARY"
means:
(a) a subsidiary within the meaning of Section 736 of the
Companies Act 1985, as amended by Section 144 of the Companies
Act 1989; and
(b) unless the context otherwise requires, a subsidiary
undertaking within the meaning of Section 258 of the Companies
Act 1985 (as inserted by Section 21 of the Companies Act
1989).
"SWINGLINE ADVANCE"
means an advance made to a Borrower by the Swingline Lenders under the
Swingline Facility.
"SWINGLINE AFFILIATE"
means, in relation to a Lender, any Swingline Lender that is an
Affiliate of that Lender and which is notified to the Agent and the
U.S. Swingline Agent by that Lender in writing to be its Swingline
Affiliate.
"SWINGLINE COMMITMENT"
means in respect of a Swingline Lender, the amount in U.S. Dollars set
opposite its name in Part II of Schedule 1 to the extent not
transferred, cancelled or reduced under or in accordance with this
Agreement.
"SWINGLINE FACILITY"
means the committed U.S. Dollar swingline facility, forming part of
Tranche C, referred to in Clause 2.1(d) (Facilities).
<PAGE>
"SWINGLINE LENDER"
means, subject to Clause 26.2 (Transfers by Lenders), a Lender listed
in Part II of Schedule 1.
"SWINGLINE RATE"
means, on any day, the higher of:
(a) the Prime Rate; and
(b) the aggregate of the Federal Funds Rate and 0.50 per cent. per
annum,
on that day.
"SWINGLINE TOTAL COMMITMENTS"
means the aggregate for the time being of the Swingline Commitments,
being U.S.$750,000,000 at the date of this Agreement.
"TAX ON OVERALL NET INCOME"
in relation to a Finance Party, means any tax on the overall net
income, profits or gains of that Finance Party or any of its Holding
Companies (or the overall net income, profits or gains of a division or
branch of that Finance Party or any of its Holding Companies).
"TERM"
means the period selected by a Borrower in a Request for which the
relevant Tranche A Advance (except a Term-out Advance), Tranche C
Advance or Swingline Advance is to be outstanding.
"TERM-OUT ADVANCES"
means the Tranche A Advances, if any, drawn under Clause 6.1(b)
(Repayment of Tranche A Advances).
"TOTAL COMMITMENTS"
means the aggregate of the Tranche A Total Commitments, Tranche B Total
Commitments and Tranche C Total Commitments (including the Swingline
Total Commitments, but without double counting) from time to time.
"TRANCHE A ADVANCE"
means an advance made to a Borrower under Tranche A of the Facilities.
"TRANCHE A AVAILABILITY PERIOD"
means the period from the Signing Date up to and including 15th April,
2000 (being the date which is one year less one day after the Signing
Date).
<PAGE>
"TRANCHE A COMMITMENT"
means, in respect of a Lender, the amount in U.S. Dollars set opposite
the name of that Lender in Column 1 of Part I of Schedule 1 to the
extent not transferred, cancelled or reduced under or in accordance
with this Agreement.
"TRANCHE A TERM DATE"
means the last day of the Tranche A Availability Period or, if that day
is not a Business Day, the preceding Business Day.
"TRANCHE A TERM-OUT OPTION"
means the option available to the Borrowers to draw Term-out Advances
under Tranche A pursuant to Clause 6.1(b) (Repayment of Tranche A
Advances).
"TRANCHE A TOTAL COMMITMENTS"
means the aggregate for the time being of the Tranche A Commitments,
being U.S.$4,000,000,000 at the date of this Agreement.
"TRANCHE B ADVANCE"
means an advance made to a Borrower under Tranche B of the Facilities.
"TRANCHE B COMMITMENT"
means, in respect of a Lender, the amount in U.S. Dollars set opposite
the name of that Lender in Column 2 of Part I of Schedule 1 to the
extent not transferred, cancelled or reduced under or in accordance
with this Agreement.
"TRANCHE B COMMITMENT PERIOD"
means the period from and including the Signing Date to and including
15th April, 2000 (being the date which is one year less one day after
the Signing Date).
"TRANCHE B TERM DATE"
means:
(a) the last day of the Tranche B Commitment Period; or
(b) if an extension notice has been given by the Borrowers' Agent
under Clause 6.2(b) (Repayment of Tranche B Advances), the
date specified in such notice for repayment of the Tranche B
Advances,
or, in either case, if that day is not a Business Day, the preceding
Business Day.
"TRANCHE B TOTAL COMMITMENTS"
means the aggregate for the time being of the Tranche B Commitments,
being U.S.$3,000,000,000 at the date of this Agreement.
<PAGE>
"TRANCHE C ADVANCE"
means an advance made to a Borrower under Tranche C of the Facilities.
"TRANCHE C AVAILABILITY PERIOD"
means the period from and including the Signing Date to the Final
Maturity Date.
"TRANCHE C COMMITMENT"
means, in respect of a Lender, the amount in U.S. Dollars set opposite
the name of that Lender in Column 3 of Part I of Schedule 1 to the
extent not transferred, cancelled or reduced under or in accordance
with this Agreement.
"TRANCHE C TOTAL COMMITMENTS"
means the aggregate for the time being of the Tranche C Commitments,
being U.S.$3,500,000,000 at the date of this Agreement (up to
U.S.$750,000,000 of which is available under the Swingline Facility).
"TREATY"
means the Treaty Establishing the European Community being the Treaty
of Rome of 25th March, 1957, as amended by the Single European Act 1986
and the Maastricht Treaty (which was signed at Maastricht on 7th
February, 1992 and came into force on 1st November, 1993), as amended
from time to time.
<PAGE>
"TREATY COUNTRY"
means each state described as a participating Member State in any EMU
legislation, whether in the first wave or subsequently.
"UK" or "UNITED KINGDOM"
means the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.
"UNITED STATES"
means the United States of America.
"U.S. CODE"
means the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1986.
"VODAFONE"
means Vodafone Group Plc (Registered number 1833679).
1.2 CONSTRUCTION
(a) In this Agreement, unless the contrary intention appears, a reference
to:
(i) "ASSETS" of any person includes all or any part of that
person's business, operations, undertaking, property, assets,
revenues (including any right to receive revenues) and
uncalled capital;
an "AUTHORISATION" includes an authorisation, consent,
approval, resolution, licence, exemption, filing, registration
and notarisation;
"BARCLAYS CAPITAL" means Barclays Capital, the investment
banking division of Barclays Bank PLC;
a "FINANCE LEASE" has the meaning given to it in SSAP 21 as in
effect at the Signing Date;
"INDEBTEDNESS" is a reference to any obligation for the
payment or repayment of money, whether as principal or surety
and whether present or future, actual or contingent;
"ING BARINGS" means ING Bank N.V.;
a "MONTH" is a reference to a period starting on one day in a
calendar month and ending on the numerically corresponding day
in the next calendar month, except that, if there is no
numerically corresponding day in the month in which that
period ends, that period shall end on the last Business Day in
that month;
a "REGULATION" includes any regulation, rule, official
directive, request or guideline (in each case, whether or not
having the force of law, but if not having the force of law,
is generally complied with by the persons to whom it is
addressed) of any
<PAGE>
governmental or supranational body, agency, department or
regulatory, self-regulatory authority or organisation; and
a reference to the currency of a country is to the lawful
currency of that country for the time being, "(POUND)" and
"STERLING" is a reference to the lawful currency of the United
Kingdom for the time being and "U.S.$" and "U.S. DOLLARS" is a
reference to the lawful currency of the United States for the
time being;
(ii) a provision of a law is a reference to that provision
as amended or re-enacted;
(iii) a Clause or a Schedule is a reference to a clause of
or a schedule to this Agreement;
(iv) a person includes its successors, transferees and
assigns;
(v) a Finance Document or another document is a reference
to that Finance Document or that other document as
novated or, with the approval of the Borrowers'
Agent, amended or supplemented; and
(vi) a time of day is a reference to London time.
(b) Where an amount is to be applied to "REDUCE THE FACILITIES"
then, with effect on or before the date the Facilities are to
be reduced,
Commitments must be cancelled by that amount and,
to the extent the outstanding amount of Advances under the
relevant Commitments would otherwise exceed the Commitments as
so reduced, Advances must be permanently repaid or prepaid.
(c) Unless the contrary intention appears, a term used in any
other Finance Document or in any notice given under or in
connection with any Finance Document has the same meaning in
that Finance Document or notice as in this Agreement.
(d) The index to and the headings in this Agreement are for
convenience only and are to be ignored in construing this
Agreement.
(e) Greenwich NatWest Limited, in its capacity as an Arranger, is
a Party as agent for National Westminster Bank Plc. All
references to Greenwich NatWest Limited as an Arranger include
National Westminster Bank Plc unless the context otherwise
requires. This paragraph does not affect the rights or
obligations of National Westminster Bank Plc under this
Agreement.
2. THE FACILITIES
2.1 FACILITIES
The Lenders grant to the Borrowers the following facilities:
(a) a committed multicurrency revolving 364 day facility, with an
option to draw Term-out Advances, to be designated as TRANCHE
A, under which the Lenders will, when requested by a Borrower,
make cash advances in U.S. Dollars or Optional Currencies to
that Borrower on a revolving basis during the Tranche A
Availability Period;
<PAGE>
(b) a committed multicurrency 364 day term loan facility (with one
year extension option as provided in Clause 6.2(b) (Repayment
of Tranche B Advances)), to be designated as TRANCHE B, under
which the Lenders will, when requested by a Borrower, make
cash advances in U.S. Dollars or Optional Currencies to that
Borrower during the Tranche B Commitment Period;
(c) a committed multicurrency revolving credit facility, to be
designated as TRANCHE C, under which the Lenders will, when
requested by a Borrower, make cash advances in U.S. Dollars or
Optional Currencies to that Borrower on a revolving basis
during the Tranche C Availability Period; and
(d) a committed U.S. Dollar swingline advance facility (which is a
sub-division of Tranche C) under which the Swingline Lenders
will, when requested by a Borrower, make to that Borrower
Swingline Advances during the Tranche C Availability Period,
in all cases subject to the terms of this Agreement.
2.2 OVERALL FACILITY LIMITS
(a) The aggregate Original Dollar Amount of all outstanding Advances under:
(i) Tranche A, shall not at any time exceed the Tranche A Total
Commitments at that time;
(ii) Tranche B, shall not at any time exceed the Tranche B Total
Commitments at that time;
(iii) Tranche C and the Swingline Facility, shall not at any time
exceed the Tranche C Total Commitments, at that time;
(iv) the Swingline Facility, shall not at any time exceed the
Swingline Total Commitments at that time; and
(v) all the Facilities, shall not at any time exceed the Total
Commitments.
(b) The aggregate Original Dollar Amount of:
(i) the participations of a Lender in Tranche A Advances, shall
not at any time exceed that Lender's Tranche A Commitment at
that time;
(ii) the participations of a Lender in Tranche B Advances, shall
not at any time exceed that Lender's Tranche B Commitment at
that time;
<PAGE>
(iii) the participations of a Lender in Tranche C Advances plus that
Lender's and, if applicable, that Lender's Swingline
Affiliate's (if any), participations in outstanding Swingline
Advances, shall not at any time exceed that Lender's Tranche C
Commitment at that time; and
(iv) the participations of a Swingline Lender in Swingline Advances
shall not at any time exceed that Swingline Lender's Swingline
Commitment at that time.
(c) If, in respect of any Tranche C Advance, the operation of Clause 5.5
(Amount of each Lender's participation in an Advance) would otherwise
have caused a Lender (the "AFFECTED LENDER") to breach sub-paragraph
(b)(iii) above then:
(i) each affected Lender will participate in the relevant Tranche
C Advance only to the extent that its participation in that
Advance (when aggregated with its and, if applicable, that
Lender's Swingline Affiliate's (if any), participations in
other outstanding Tranche C Advances and Swingline Advances)
will not exceed its Tranche C Commitment; and
(ii) each other non-affected Lender's participation in that Advance
will be recalculated in accordance with such Clause 5.5, but,
for the purpose of the recalculation, the affected Lenders'
Tranche C Commitments will be deducted from the Tranche C
Total Commitments and the amount of the affected Lenders'
participations in that Advance (if any) will be deducted from
the requested amount of the Advance.
2.3 NUMBER OF REQUESTS AND ADVANCES
(a) Unless the Agent agrees otherwise, no more than one Request (other than
Requests for Swingline Advances only) may be delivered on any one day
but that Request may specify any number and type of Advances from
Tranche A, Tranche B, Tranche C, the Swingline Facility or all of them.
(b) Unless the Agent agrees otherwise, no more than 30 Advances (not
including Swingline Advances) may be outstanding at any one time.
2.4 PRIMARY SYNDICATION PERIOD
(a) Subject to paragraph (b) below, but otherwise notwithstanding any
provision of this Agreement, no Borrower will deliver a Request or
Interest Period selection notice during the Primary Syndication Period
specifying a Term or an Interest Period other than up to five Business
Days for Swingline Advances or, in any other case, 7, 14, or 21 days or
one month (unless all the Lenders agree otherwise).
(b) The Agent may (after consultation with the Borrowers' Agent and the
Arrangers) specify a separate date for each Tranche during the Primary
Syndication Period for each of:
(i) completion of sub-underwriting; and
<PAGE>
(ii) completion of general syndication,
and no Interest Period or Term may be selected under (a) above for any
Advance in that Tranche which would overrun either of the dates
specified for that Tranche. The Borrowers' Agent and the Agent may
agree to Interest Periods or Terms of such duration as may be
appropriate to comply with this paragraph (b).
2.5 NATURE OF RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS
(a) The obligations of a Finance Party and each Obligor under the Finance
Documents are several. Failure of a Finance Party or an Obligor to
carry out those obligations does not relieve any other Party of its
obligations under the Finance Documents. No Finance Party or Obligor is
responsible for the obligations of any other Finance Party or Obligor
under the Finance Documents save and to the extent that the relevant
obligations are guaranteed by another Obligor.
(b) The rights of a Finance Party under the Finance Documents are divided
rights. A Finance Party may, except as otherwise stated in the Finance
Documents, separately enforce those rights.
2.6 BORROWERS' AGENT
Each Obligor which is or becomes a Subsidiary of Vodafone:
(a) irrevocably authorises and instructs the Borrowers' Agent to
give and receive as agent on its behalf all notices (including
Requests) and sign all documents in connection with the
Finance Documents on its behalf (including but not limited to
amendments and variations and execution of any new Finance
Documents) and take such other action as may be necessary or
desirable under or in connection with the Finance Documents;
and
(b) confirms that it will be bound by any action taken by the
Borrowers' Agent under or in connection with the Finance
Documents.
2.7 ACTIONS OF BORROWERS' AGENT
The respective liabilities of each of the Obligors under the Finance
Documents shall not be in any way affected by:
(a) any irregularity (or purported irregularity) in any act done
by or any failure (or purported failure) by the Borrowers'
Agent;
(b) the Borrowers' Agent acting (or purporting to act) in any
respect outside any authority conferred upon it by any
Obligor; or
(c) the failure (or purported failure) by or inability (or
purported inability) of the Borrowers' Agent to inform any
Obligor of receipt by it of any notification under this
Agreement.
<PAGE>
3. PURPOSE
3.1 BY TRANCHE
Each Advance will be applied:
(a) in the case of Tranche A, in or towards financing in
connection with the Merger:
(i) the payment of cash to shareholders of AirTouch; and
(ii) the costs and expenses of the Merger,
and to refinance borrowings under the Swingline Facility and
to back up other short term debt facilities or financing
arrangements;
(b) in the case of Tranche B, in or towards financing in
connection with the Merger:
(i) the payment of cash to shareholders of AirTouch; and
(ii) the costs and expenses of the Merger; and
(c) in the case of Tranche C, in or towards providing support for
the Group's continuing commercial paper programmes, core
liquidity needs of the Group, for general corporate purposes
and refinancing existing Vodafone and AirTouch debt (provided
that a Swingline Advance may not be applied in or towards
refinancing another Swingline Advance).
3.2 NO MONITORING
Without affecting the obligations of any Borrower in any way, no
Finance Party is bound to monitor or verify the application of the
proceeds of any Advance.
4. CONDITIONS PRECEDENT
4.1 DOCUMENTARY CONDITIONS PRECEDENT
The obligations of each Finance Party to any Borrower under this
Agreement are subject to the condition precedent that the Agent has
notified Vodafone and the Lenders that it has received all of the
documents set out in Part I of Schedule 2 in the agreed form or such
other form and substance satisfactory to the Agent. The Agent will give
such notice of receipt within two Business Days after receiving the
relevant documents (other than in respect of those specified in
paragraph 4(d) of Schedule 2, Part I which will be given as soon as
practicable after receipt) and finding them in form and substance
satisfactory to it.
<PAGE>
4.2 CONDITIONS TO FIRST DRAWDOWN
Subject to Clause 4.4 (Certain Funds Period), the obligations of each
Lender to participate in the first Advance are subject to the further
conditions precedent that on the date of the Request for that first
Advance and on the Drawdown Date for that first Advance:
(a) the representations and warranties in Clause 15
(Representations and Warranties) (other than Clauses 15.11
(Information) and 15.14 (Year 2000)) are correct and will be
correct immediately after the Advance is made (and the
representations and warranties in Clauses 15.11 (Information)
and 15.14 (Year 2000) were correct on the Signing Date) in
each case in all material respects; and
(b) no Default has occurred and is continuing or would result from
the making of the Advance.
4.3 CONDITIONS TO FURTHER DRAWDOWNS AND ROLLOVERS
Subject to Clause 4.4 (Certain Funds Period), the obligations of each
Lender to participate in any subsequent Advance (other than a Rollover
Advance) or to make any amount available under Clause 8.8(b)(ii) (Same
Optional Currency) are subject to the further conditions precedent that
on the date of the Request for the Advance (if applicable) and on the
date on which the relevant amount is to be drawn down:
(a) the representations and warranties in Clause 15
(Representations and Warranties) (other than Clauses 15.11
(Information) and 15.14 (Year 2000)) are correct and will be
correct immediately after the relevant Advance or amount is
drawn down (and the representations and warranties in Clauses
15.11 (Information) and 15.14 (Year 2000) were correct on the
Signing Date) in each case in all material respects; and
(b) no Default has occurred and is continuing or would result from
drawdown of the relevant Advance or amount.
4.4 CERTAIN FUNDS PERIOD
In order to provide certainty of funding for closing of the Merger the
following provisions will be suspended for a period starting on the
date Vodafone gives notice to the Agent that such period is to begin
and ending on the earlier of (a) two months after the date the notice
is given, and (b) five Business Days after the Merger Date:
(i) Clause 15.7 (No default);
(ii) Clause 15.10 (Financial condition);
(iii) Clause 18.5 (Cross default);
(iv) Clause 18.7 (Insolvency process) and Clause 18.10 (Similar
proceedings) in respect of anything having a substantially
similar effect to Clause 18.7, to the extent that either such
provision applies to a Principal Subsidiary outside the United
States or the United Kingdom;
(v) Clause 18.8 (Enforcement proceedings); and
(vi) Clause 18.14 (Litigation),
<PAGE>
and references to "Events of Default", "Default" and repetition of
warranties shall be construed accordingly.
5. ADVANCES
5.1 RECEIPT OF REQUESTS
(a) A Borrower may borrow Advances under Tranche A, Tranche B or Tranche C
(other than Swingline Advances) if the Agent receives, not later than
5.00 p.m. on the third Business Day before the proposed Drawdown Date,
or, in the case of an Advance in Sterling, not later than 5.00 p.m. on
the Business Day before the proposed Drawdown Date, a duly completed
Request, copied, in the case of a Request for a Tranche C Advance, to
the U.S. Swingline Agent.
(b) A Borrower may borrow Swingline Advances if the U.S. Swingline Agent
receives, not later than noon (New York City time) on the proposed
Drawdown Date, a duly completed Request, copied to the Agent.
5.2 COMPLETION OF REQUESTS FOR TRANCHE A AND TRANCHE C ADVANCES
A Request for a Tranche A and/or Tranche C Advance (other than
Swingline Advances) will not be regarded as having been duly completed
unless:
(a) the Drawdown Date is a Business Day falling during the Tranche
A Availability Period (in respect of a Tranche A Advance) or
Tranche C Availability Period (in respect of a Tranche C
Advance);
(b) only one currency is specified for each separate Advance and
the Requested Amount for each separate Advance is in a minimum
amount:
(i) if in U.S. Dollars, of U.S.$25,000,000;
(ii) if in Sterling, of (pound)20,000,000; or
(iii) in euros, of (euro)25,000,000,
or, in any such case:
(1) if less, is in an amount equal to the unutilised
portion of the Tranche A Total Commitments or (as the
case may be) the Tranche C Total Commitments; or
(2) such other amount as the Borrowers' Agent and the
Agent may agree;
(c) only one Term or, in the case of Term-out Advances, Interest
Period for each separate Advance is specified which:
(i) does not overrun the Tranche A Term Date (in respect
of a Tranche A Advance (other than a Term-out
Advance)) or the Final Maturity Date (in respect of a
Tranche C Advance); and
<PAGE>
(ii) subject to Clause 2.4 (Primary Syndication Period),
is a period of 7 days, one month, two, three or six
months (or such other period not exceeding six months
as the Borrowers' Agent and the Agent may agree for
the purposes of such Advance);
(d) the payment instructions comply with Clause 9.1 (Place of
Payment); and
(e) in the case of a Request for a Term-out Advance, the Maturity
Date for that Advance is specified which cannot be later than
the second Anniversary.
5.3 COMPLETION OF REQUESTS FOR SWINGLINE ADVANCES
A Request for a Swingline Advance will not be regarded as having been
duly completed unless:
(a) the Drawdown Date is a New York Business Day falling before
the Final Maturity Date;
(b) it is specified that the Swingline Advance is to be made in
U.S. Dollars under the Swingline Facility;
(c) the Requested Amount is a minimum of U.S.$20,000,000 or such
other amount as the U.S. Swingline Agent and the relevant
Borrower may agree;
(d) only one Term is specified, which:
(i) does not overrun the Final Maturity Date; and
(ii) is a period not exceeding five Business Days; and
(e) the payment instructions comply with Clause 9.1 (Place of
Payment).
5.4 COMPLETION OF REQUESTS FOR TRANCHE B ADVANCES
A Request for a Tranche B Advance will not be regarded as having been
duly completed unless:
(a) the Drawdown Date is a Business Day during the Tranche B
Commitment Period;
(b) only one currency is specified for each separate Advance and
the Requested Amount for each separate Advance is in a minimum
amount:
(i) if in U.S. Dollars, of U.S.$100,000,000; or
(ii) if in Sterling, of (pound)50,000,000; or
(iii) if in euros, of (euro)100,000,000,
or, in any such case:
<PAGE>
(1) if less, is in an amount equal to the unutilised
portion of the Tranche B Total Commitments; or
(2) such other amount as the Borrowers' Agent and the
Agent may agree;
(c) only one Interest Period for each separate Advance is
specified which:
(i) does not overrun the Tranche B Term Date; and
(ii) (subject to Clause 2.4 (Primary Syndication Period))
is a period of 7 days, one month, two, three or six
months (or, in any case, such other period not
exceeding six months as the Borrowers' Agent and the
Agent may agree for the purposes of such Advance);
and
(d) the payment instructions comply with Clause 9.1 (Place of
Payment).
5.5 AMOUNT OF EACH LENDER'S PARTICIPATION IN AN ADVANCE
The amount of a Lender's participation in an Advance will be the
proportion of the Requested Amount which:
(a) in the case of a Tranche A Advance, its Tranche A Commitment
bears to the Tranche A Total Commitments;
(b) in the case of a Tranche B Advance, its Tranche B Commitment
bears to the Tranche B Total Commitments;
(c) in the case of a Tranche C Advance, its Tranche C Commitment
bears to the Tranche C Total Commitments; and
(d) in the case of a Swingline Advance, its Swingline Commitment
bears to the Swingline Total Commitments,
in each case on the date of receipt of the relevant Request, adjusted
in the case of paragraph (c) (if necessary) to reflect the operation of
Clause 2.2(c) (Overall facility limits).
5.6 NOTIFICATION OF THE LENDERS
The Agent (or, in the case of Swingline Advances, the U.S. Swingline
Agent) shall promptly notify each Lender (or, as the case may be,
Swingline Lender) of the details of the requested Advance and the
amount of its participation in such Advance.
5.7 PAYMENT OF PROCEEDS
Subject to the terms of this Agreement, each Lender (or, as the case
may be, Swingline Lender) shall make its participation in an Advance
available to the Agent (or, in the case of a participation in a
Swingline Advance, the U.S. Swingline Agent) for the Borrower concerned
for value on the relevant Drawdown Date.
<PAGE>
6. REPAYMENT
6.1 REPAYMENT OF TRANCHE A ADVANCES
(a) Each Borrower shall repay each Tranche A Advance made to it in full on
its Maturity Date to the Agent for the Lenders, but since Tranche A is
available on a revolving basis during the Tranche A Availability Period
amounts repaid may be reborrowed subject to the terms of this
Agreement.
(b) The Borrowers' Agent may on one occasion only, prior to the Tranche A
Term Date, by delivery of a duly completed Request to the Agent under
and in accordance with Clause 5 (Advances) (who shall send a copy to
the Lenders), elect to draw Advance(s) under Tranche A (each a
"TERM-OUT ADVANCE") each with the same Maturity Date (being a date
after the Tranche A Term Date, but no later than the second
Anniversary). No Term-out Advance, once repaid or prepaid, may be
reborrowed.
(c) No Tranche A Advance, other than a Term-out Advance, may be outstanding
after the Tranche A Term Date. No Term-out Advance may be outstanding
after the second Anniversary.
6.2 REPAYMENT OF TRANCHE B ADVANCES
(a) Each Borrower shall repay each Tranche B Advance made to it in full on
the Tranche B Term Date.
(b) The Borrowers' Agent may, not later than three Business Days' prior to
the last day of the Tranche B Commitment Period, send an election
notice to the Agent (who shall send a copy of the same to the Lenders)
electing to extend the maturity of the Tranche B Advances to a date
specified in the election notice (which may not be later than the
second Anniversary). On the date of receipt of that notice by the Agent
the Tranche B Term Date (but not the Tranche B Commitment Period) will
be extended to the date specified.
(c) No Tranche B Advance may be outstanding after the Tranche B Commitment
Period unless a valid election is made under (b) above in which case no
Tranche B Advance may be outstanding after the date specified in the
election notice.
<PAGE>
6.3 REPAYMENT OF TRANCHE C ADVANCES
Each Borrower shall repay each Tranche C Advance made to it in full on
its Maturity Date to the Agent for the relevant Lenders, but since
Tranche C is available on a revolving basis amounts repaid may be
reborrowed subject to the terms of this Agreement and, in particular,
to Clause 7.1 (Automatic Cancellation of the Tranche A and Tranche C
Total Commitments). No Tranche C Advance may be outstanding after the
Final Maturity Date.
6.4 REPAYMENT OF SWINGLINE ADVANCES
(a) Each Borrower shall repay each Swingline Advance made to it on its
Maturity Date to the U.S. Swingline Agent for the Swingline Lenders. No
Swingline Advance may be outstanding after the Final Maturity Date.
(b) Each Swingline Advance shall be repaid on its Maturity Date in
accordance with paragraph (a) above. In the event that a Swingline
Advance is not so repaid each Lender will within four Business Days of
a demand to that effect from the U.S. Swingline Agent pay to the U.S.
Swingline Agent on behalf of the Swingline Lenders (which shall be
deemed to be a drawing of that Bank's Tranche C Commitment) an amount
equal to its Agreed Percentage of the principal of such Swingline
Advance and accrued interest (including default interest) thereon to
the date of actual payment by such Lender (provided that no Lender
shall be obliged to exceed its Tranche C Commitment as a result of any
such payment). The relevant Borrower shall forthwith reimburse the
Lenders (through the Agent) in full for each payment made by the
Lenders under this paragraph (b). Each amount the relevant Borrower is
required to reimburse to the Lenders under this paragraph (b) shall be
deemed to be an overdue amount (as defined in Clause 8.4(a) (Default
interest)) which fell due for payment by the relevant Borrower on the
day on which the payment by the Lenders giving rise to the
reimbursement obligation was made and shall accrue default interest
under Clause 8.4 (Default interest) accordingly.
<PAGE>
7. PREPAYMENT AND CANCELLATION
7.1 AUTOMATIC CANCELLATION OF THE TRANCHE A AND TRANCHE C TOTAL COMMITMENTS
(a) The Tranche A Commitment of each Lender (less the aggregate Original
Dollar Amount of that Lender's participations in Term-out Advances)
shall be automatically cancelled at the close of business in New York
on the last day of the Tranche A Availability Period.
(b) The Tranche C Commitment of each Lender (including the Swingline
Commitments of the Swingline Lenders) shall be automatically cancelled
at the close of business in New York on the Final Maturity Date.
7.2 AUTOMATIC CANCELLATION OF THE TRANCHE B TOTAL COMMITMENTS
The undrawn Tranche B Commitment of each Lender shall be automatically
cancelled on the last day of the Tranche B Commitment Period.
7.3 VOLUNTARY CANCELLATION
(a) The Borrowers' Agent may by giving not less than five Business Days'
prior written notice to the Agent, cancel the unutilised portion of the
Tranche A Total Commitments and/or Tranche B Total Commitments and/or
Tranche C Total Commitments in whole or in part (but, if in part, in an
aggregate minimum amount of U.S.$100,000,000). Any cancellation in part
shall be applied against the Tranche A Commitment, Tranche B Commitment
or, as the case may be, Tranche C Commitment of each Lender pro rata.
(b) Whenever part of the Tranche C Total Commitments is cancelled, the
Swingline Commitments shall not be cancelled unless (i) the amount of
the Swingline Total Commitments would exceed the Tranche C Total
Commitments after such cancellation or (ii) the Swingline Commitment of
any Swingline Lender would exceed its Tranche C Commitment after such
cancellation. In any such case, the Swingline Total Commitments shall,
at the same time as the cancellation of the Tranche C Total Commitments
takes effect, be cancelled by such amount as is necessary to ensure
that after the relevant cancellation of the Tranche C Total Commitments
the Swingline Total Commitments do not exceed the Tranche C Total
Commitments and the Swingline Commitment of each Swingline Lender does
not exceed its Tranche C Commitment.
7.4 VOLUNTARY PREPAYMENT
(a) Any Borrower may by giving not less than five Business Days' prior
written notice to the Agent, prepay the whole or any part of the
Advances made to it under Tranches A, B or C (but if in part in an
aggregate minimum Original Dollar Amount, taking all prepayments made
by all the Borrowers on the same day together, of U.S.$100,000,000).
(b) Any voluntary prepayment made under paragraph (a) above will:
(i) be applied against Tranche A, Tranche B or Tranche C in such
proportions as may be specified by the Borrowers' Agent in the
notice of prepayment
<PAGE>
or, if not specified, in the order specified in Clause 7.6(b)
(Mandatory prepayment from Asset Disposals and Bond Issues);
and
(ii) be applied against all the Advances in the relevant Tranche(s)
pro rata (or against such Advances in the relevant Tranche(s)
as the Borrowers' Agent may designate in the notice of
prepayment).
7.5 MANDATORY PREPAYMENT BY BORROWERS
(a) If the Merger Date has not occurred by the day five Business Days after
the Drawdown Date of the first Advance, the Agent may, and on the
instructions of the Majority Lenders will, by notice to Vodafone:
(i) forthwith cancel the Total Commitments; and
(ii) request that each Borrower prepay all Advances made to it by a
specified date (being no earlier than 30 days after the date
the notice is given to Vodafone) together with all accrued
interest and other amounts accrued under this Agreement
whereupon each Borrower will prepay all the Advances, interest
and other amounts on or before that specified date.
(b) If, after the Merger Date, AirTouch ceases to be a Subsidiary of
Vodafone it will forthwith prepay all Advances made to it and thereupon
cease to be a Borrower.
7.6 MANDATORY PREPAYMENT FROM ASSET DISPOSALS AND BOND ISSUES
(a) Until the date on which the Total Commitments are less than or equal to
U.S.$10,000,000,000, Vodafone will notify the Agent not later than ten
Business Days after the date of receipt (a "RECEIPT DATE") by any
member of the Group of
(i) any Net Available Proceeds of an Asset Disposal; and
(ii) any Net Bond Proceeds,
specifying the amount (the "DOLLAR EQUIVALENT PROCEEDS") of the
relevant Net Available Proceeds or Net Bond Proceeds, as the case may
be, (notionally converted into U.S. Dollars at the Agent's Conversion
Rate on the date of that notice) whereupon such Dollar Equivalent
Proceeds shall be applied by the Borrowers to reduce the Facilities in
the manner set out in paragraph (b) below except to the extent that,
after such application, the Total Commitments would be less than
U.S.$10,000,000,000. For the purposes of this Clause 7.6, "AGENT'S
CONVERSION RATE" means the spot rate of exchange as determined by the
Agent for the purchase in the London foreign exchange market of U.S.
Dollars with the currency of the relevant Net Available Proceeds or Net
Bond Proceeds at or about 9.00 a.m. on the relevant calculation date.
(b) Any application to reduce the Facilities required under paragraph (a)
above will be made no later than the eleventh Business Day after the
Receipt Date by application of amounts which
<PAGE>
together are equal to the Dollar Equivalent Proceeds (when notionally
converted into U.S. Dollars using the Agent's Conversion Rate on the
day the Dollar Equivalent Proceeds were calculated) to reduce the
Facilities in the following order:
(i) Tranche B;
(ii) Tranche A; and
(iii) Tranche C.
(c) The following Asset Disposals shall be excluded from the operation of
paragraphs (a)(i) and (b) above:
(i) any Asset Disposal where the Net Cash Proceeds from that Asset
Disposal and any related series of Asset Disposals are less
than U.S.$100,000,000 (or its equivalent in other currencies);
(ii) disposals of cash;
(iii) disposals of assets by way of enforcement of security by a
member of the Group;
(iv) payments of dividends;
(v) any creation of a Security Interest not prohibited by this
Agreement;
(vi) any disposal being or representing consideration for an
acquisition permitted by Clause 16.10 (Restriction on
acquisitions);
(vii) disposals of assets acquired as part of cash management or
treasury operations in the ordinary course of business;
(viii) payments under any guarantee not prohibited by this Agreement
in accordance with the terms of that guarantee or payments of
or in respect of any indebtedness not prohibited under this
Agreement;
(ix) consideration given to AirTouch shareholders in connection
with the Merger; and
(x) any Asset Disposal in the ordinary course of trading.
(d) In addition, up to U.S.$1,000,000,000 in aggregate of Net Available
Proceeds of Asset Disposals and/or Net Bond Proceeds shall be excluded
from the operation of paragraph (a) above, if, prior to the Receipt
Date in respect of such proceeds, Vodafone gives written notice to the
Agent specifying that it requires such proceeds in order to finance the
acquisition cost of any Acquisition or any licence (which cost was not
contemplated in the financial model in the Information Memorandum) and
specifying the purpose to which such proceeds are to be applied.
<PAGE>
7.7 MANDATORY PREPAYMENT/CANCELLATION BY VODAFONE
If control of Vodafone passes to any person acting either individually
or in concert (a "CHANGE OF CONTROL"):
(a) Vodafone shall, promptly upon becoming aware thereof, notify
the Agent which shall inform the Lenders;
(b) any Lender may (through the Agent) then propose to Vodafone
the revised terms, if any, it requires to continue to
participate in the Facilities;
(c) if those revised terms have not been agreed with that Lender
(or that Lender is not prepared to continue on any terms)
within 30 days of the date of notification in paragraph (a)
above (or such longer period as that Lender may agree in
writing) then that Lender may by notice to the Agent (which
shall promptly inform Vodafone) cancel the whole (but not part
only) of such Lender's Commitments and following service of
such notice;
(i) such Lender's Commitments shall be cancelled on the
date of service of the notice or as specified in it;
and
(ii) all such Lender's outstanding Advances shall be
repaid or prepaid on the last day of the then current
Interest Period or Term applicable thereto, and no
amount may be outstanding to such Lender thereafter.
For the purposes of this Clause 7.7, "CONTROL" has the meaning given to
it in relation to a body corporate by Section 840 of the Income and
Corporation Taxes Act 1988.
7.8 RIGHT OF PREPAYMENT AND CANCELLATION
If any Borrower is required to pay or is notified by any Lender in
writing that it will be required to pay any amount to a Lender under
Clause 10 (Taxes) or Clause 12 (Increased Costs), or if circumstances
exist such that a Borrower will be required to pay any amount to a
Lender under Clause 10 (Taxes), the Borrowers' Agent may, whilst the
circumstances giving rise or which will give rise to the requirement
continue, serve a notice of prepayment and cancellation on that Lender
through the Agent. On the date falling five Business Days after the
date of service of the notice:
(a) each Borrower will prepay the participations of that Lender in
all outstanding Advances made to that Borrower; and
(b) the Lender's Tranche A Commitment, Tranche B Commitment and
Tranche C Commitment (including its Swingline Commitment (if
any)) shall be permanently cancelled on the date of service of
the notice.
7.9 MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS
(a) Any notice of prepayment and/or cancellation under this Agreement is
irrevocable. The Agent shall notify the Lenders promptly of receipt of
any such notice.
(b) All prepayments under this Agreement shall be made together with
accrued interest on the amount prepaid and any other amounts due under
this Agreement in respect of that prepayment (including, but not
limited to, any amounts payable under Clause 23.2(d) (other
<PAGE>
indemnities) if not made on an Interest Date for the relevant Tranche B
Advance or Term-out Advance or on the Maturity Date of the relevant
Tranche A Advance, Tranche C Advance or Swingline Advance).
(c) No prepayment or cancellation is permitted except in accordance with
the express terms of this Agreement.
(d) Subject to Clause 8.7 (Change of currency), no amount repaid in respect
of Tranche B or a Term-out Advance may subsequently be re-borrowed.
Subject to the provisions of this Agreement, any amount prepaid in
respect of Tranche A during the Tranche A Availability Period or in
respect of Tranche C may be reborrowed. No amount of the Tranche A
Total Commitments, Tranche B Total Commitments or Tranche C Total
Commitments (including the Swingline Total Commitments) cancelled under
this Agreement may subsequently be reinstated.
8. INTEREST
8.1 SELECTION OF INTEREST PERIODS FOR TRANCHE B AND TERM-OUT ADVANCES
(a) The life of each Tranche B Advance and each Term-out Advance is divided
into successive periods (each an "INTEREST PERIOD") for the calculation
of interest. The first Interest Period of each Advance will be the
period selected in the Request for that Tranche B Advance or Term-out
Advance (as the case may be) and each subsequent Interest Period will
be the period selected by the relevant Borrower by notice to the Agent
received not later than 5.00 p.m. on the third Business Day (or, in the
case of an Advance to be denominated in Sterling for its subsequent
Interest Period, 5.00 p.m. one Business Day) before the end of the then
current Interest Period (being, subject to Clause 2.4 (Primary
Syndication Period), 7 days, one month, two, three or six months or in
any case such other period not exceeding six months as the Borrowers'
Agent and the Agent may agree from time to time). Each Interest Period
for a Tranche B Advance or Term-out Advance will commence on its
Drawdown Date or the expiry of its preceding Interest Period.
(b) Each such selection notice will specify in which currency the Tranche B
Advance or Term-out Advance is to be continued during its next Interest
Period. If no such selection notice is received by the time specified
in paragraph (a) above, the Tranche B Advance or Term-out Advance will
be continued in the same currency and the Interest Period concerned
will be one week during the Primary Syndication Period and one month
thereafter or, in the case of a Term-out Advance, the Interest Period
will be subject to Clause 6.1(c) (Repayment of Tranche A Advances) and,
in any case will be such shorter period as is required to ensure that
it does not overrun the second Anniversary.
8.2 INTEREST RATE FOR ALL ADVANCES
(a) The rate of interest on each Tranche A Advance (except a Term-
<PAGE>
out Advance) and Tranche C Advance for its Term and for each Tranche B
Advance and Term-out Advance for each of its Interest Periods is the
rate per annum determined by the Agent to be the aggregate of:
(i) the applicable Margin;
(ii) LIBOR; and
(iii) Reserve Asset Costs.
(b) The rate of interest on each Swingline Advance for each day during its
Term is the rate per annum determined by the U.S. Swingline Agent to be
the Swingline Rate for that day plus any applicable Reserve Asset
Costs.
(c) In this Agreement:
(i) Reserve Asset Costs for an Advance for any Interest Period or
Term will be calculated only on that portion of that Advance
owed to Lenders who have notified the Agent that they incur
the relevant Reserve Asset Costs in relation to Advances;
(ii) a Lender will only be entitled to Reserve Asset Costs if it
has given a notification to the Agent as contemplated in sub
paragraph (i) above; and
(iii) any amounts payable pursuant to paragraph (b) or (c) of the
definition of Reserve Asset Costs shall be expressed as a
percentage rate per annum for the relevant Term or Interest
Period.
8.3 DUE DATES
Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, accrued interest on
each Advance is payable by the relevant Borrower:
(a) in the case of a Tranche A Advance (other than a Term-out
Advance), a Tranche C Advance or a Swingline Advance, on its
Maturity Date; and
(b) in the case of a Tranche B Advance or Term-out Advance, on
each Interest Date applicable to that Tranche B Advance or
Term-out Advance,
and also, in the case of any Advance with an Interest Period or a Term
longer than six months, at six monthly intervals after its Drawdown
Date for so long as the Interest Period or Term is outstanding.
8.4 DEFAULT INTEREST
(a) If a Borrower fails to pay any amount payable by it under this
Agreement when due (an "OVERDUE AMOUNT"), it shall forthwith on demand
by the Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent pay
interest on the overdue amount from the due date up to the date of
actual payment, both before and after judgment, at a rate (the "DEFAULT
RATE") determined by the Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S.
Swingline Agent to be one per cent. per annum (the "DEFAULT MARGIN")
above the higher of:
(i) the rate on the overdue amount under Clause 8.2 (Interest rate
for all Advances) immediately before the due date (in the case
of principal); and
<PAGE>
(ii) the rate which would have been payable if the overdue amount
had, during the period of non-payment, constituted a Tranche C
Advance at the Margin applicable to a new Tranche C Advance if
it had been drawn down at such time in the currency of the
overdue amount for such successive Interest Periods or Terms
of such duration as the Agent may determine (each a
"DESIGNATED TERM"),
except that during any grace period specified in Clause 18.2
(Non-payment) the Default Margin portion of the default rate will only
apply to overdue payments of principal.
(b) The default rate will be determined on each Business Day or the first
day of, or two Business Days before the first day of, the relevant
Designated Term, as appropriate.
(c) If the Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent
determines that deposits in the currency of the overdue amount are not
at the relevant time being made available by the Reference Banks to
leading banks in the London interbank market, the default rate will be
determined by reference to the cost of funds to the Agent or, as the
case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent from whatever sources it selects,
acting reasonably at all times, after consultation with the Reference
Banks.
(d) Default interest will be compounded at the end of each Designated Term.
(e) The Agent shall notify the Borrowers' Agent of the duration of each
Designated Term.
8.5 NOTIFICATION OF RATES OF INTEREST
The Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent will
promptly notify each relevant Party of the determination of a rate of
interest under this Agreement.
8.6 MARGIN AND COMMITMENT FEE
(a) Subject to the following provisions of this Clause, the Margin will be
0.55 per cent. per annum in respect of Tranches A and C and 0.65 per
cent. per annum in respect of Tranche B.
(b) The Margin for all Advances in a Tranche will be adjusted in accordance
with paragraph (d) below to the percentage rate specified below the
reference to that Tranche in the table below and set opposite the long
term credit rating assigned by either Moody's or S&P at such time to
Vodafone.
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
----------------------------------------- --------------------------- ---------------------------------
Moody's or S&P Rating Tranches A and C Tranche B
(% p.a.) (% p.a.)
----------------------------------------- --------------------------- ---------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
A2/A or higher 0.45 0.55
----------------------------------------- --------------------------- ---------------------------------
A3/A- 0.50 0.60
----------------------------------------- --------------------------- ---------------------------------
Baa1/BBB+ 0.55 0.65
----------------------------------------- --------------------------- ---------------------------------
Baa2/BBB or lower 0.70 0.80
----------------------------------------- --------------------------- ---------------------------------
</TABLE>
(c) If at any time after a Margin has been determined in accordance with
paragraph (b), no long term credit rating is assigned to Vodafone by
either Moody's or S&P, the Margin for all Advances in a Tranche will be
the Margin for that Tranche shown in the table in paragraph (b) above
which applied immediately prior to the date Vodafone ceased to have a
long term credit rating assigned to it.
(d) Any adjustment to the Margin (whether upwards or downwards) in
accordance with paragraph (b) or (c) above or (g)(iv) below will only
apply to the Term of any Advance, or any Interest Period of an Advance,
which starts on or after:
(i) the date of publication of any relevant change to the long
term credit rating assigned to Vodafone; or
(ii) the date on which no long term credit rating is assigned to
Vodafone by either Moody's or S&P as provided in paragraph (c)
above; and/or
(iii) the date on which the requirements of sub-paragraph (g)(iv)
below are satisfied (or cease to be satisfied).
(e) The commitment fee referred to in Clause 20.1 (Commitment fee) shall be
on each day:
(i) (in respect of Tranche A and Tranche B) 0.125 per cent. per
annum; and
(ii) (in respect of Tranche C) 0.20 per cent. per annum until the
long term credit rating assigned to Vodafone (after the Merger
has completed or on the assumption that it will complete) has
been published by Moody's or S&P and thereafter, 40 per cent.
of the Margin which would be applicable to a Tranche C
Advance, if such Advance were drawn on such day.
<PAGE>
(f) Promptly after becoming aware of the same, Vodafone shall inform the
Agent in writing if any change in the long term credit rating assigned
to Vodafone occurs or the circumstances contemplated by paragraph (c)
above or sub-paragraph (g)(iii) below arise.
(g) For the purpose of this Clause 8.6:
(i) the "LONG TERM CREDIT RATING ASSIGNED TO VODAFONE" means the
solicited long term credit rating of Vodafone, or an issue of
or guarantee by Vodafone, after the Merger has completed (or
assigned on the assumption that the Merger will complete)
where the rating is based primarily on the unsecured credit
risk of Vodafone in a manner comparable to the credit
structure of the Vodafone Group Plc(pound)250 million 7.5 per
cent. bonds due 2004 and does not include any issue where that
credit risk is enhanced or collateralised (except if such
credit risk is enhanced by an AirTouch guarantee and AirTouch
is then a Guarantor, in which case, if there is a difference
in the relevant long term credit ratings, the Margin will be
determined on the basis of the higher of such ratings);
(ii) if at any time there is a difference in the long term credit
rating assigned to Vodafone by each of Moody's and S&P (or
only one such agency assigns to Vodafone a long term credit
rating), the Margin will be determined on the basis of the
higher (or the only) such rating, unless any such rating is
Baa3 or BBB- or lower, in which case the highest Margins for
the relevant Tranche shown in the table in paragraph (b) above
shall apply;
(iii) if at any time the long term credit rating assigned to
Vodafone by either or both Moody's and S&P is placed on credit
watch with negative implications and there is then a
difference in the long term credit rating assigned to Vodafone
by each of Moody's and S&P, the Margin will be determined on
the basis of the lower of the two ratings (and, for the
purposes of sub-paragraph (d)(i) above, such long term credit
rating shall be deemed to have changed on the later of the
date of publication of the placing on credit watch and the
date on which there is first a difference in the long term
credit rating assigned to Vodafone by each of Moody's and
S&P);
(iv) if and for so long as AirTouch is an Additional Guarantor,
each of the percentage rates per annum specified in this
Clause 8.6 shall be reduced by 0.05 per cent. per annum.
8.7 CHANGE OF CURRENCY
(a) If a Tranche B Advance or Term-out Advance is to be continued during
its next Interest Period in a different currency (the "NEW CURRENCY")
from that in which it is currently denominated, the Tranche B Advance
or Term-out Advance shall be repaid by the relevant Borrower in full at
the end of its current Interest Period in the currency in which it is
then denominated and shall be forthwith re-advanced by the Lenders in
the new currency.
(b) If the new currency is U.S. Dollars, the amount of each Lender's
participation in that Tranche B Advance or Term-out Advance will be its
participation in the Original Dollar Amount of that Tranche B Advance
or Term-out Advance for that Interest Period.
(c) If the new currency is an Optional Currency, the amount of each
Lender's participation in that Tranche B Advance or Term-out Advance
will be determined by
<PAGE>
converting into the new currency its participation in the Original
Dollar Amount of that Tranche B Advance or Term-out Advance on the
basis of the Agent's Spot Rate of Exchange three Business Days before
the commencement of that Interest Period.
8.8 SAME OPTIONAL CURRENCY
(a) If a Tranche B Advance or Term-out Advance is to be continued during
its next Interest Period in the same Optional Currency as that in which
it is denominated during its current Interest Period, there shall be
calculated the difference between the amount of the Tranche B Advance
or Term-out Advance (in that Optional Currency) for the current
Interest Period and for the next Interest Period. The amount of the
Tranche B Advance or Term-out Advance for the next Interest Period will
be determined by notionally converting into that Optional Currency the
Original Dollar Amount of the Tranche B Advance or Term-out Advance on
the basis of the Agent's Spot Rate of Exchange three Business Days
before the start of that Interest Period.
(b) At the end of the current Interest Period (but subject always to
paragraph (c) below):
(i) if the amount of the Tranche B Advance or Term-out Advance for
the next Interest Period is less than for the preceding
Interest Period, the relevant Borrower shall repay the
difference; or
(ii) if the amount of the Tranche B Advance or Term-out Advance for
the next Interest Period is greater than for the preceding
Interest Period, each Lender shall forthwith make available to
the Agent for the relevant Borrower its participation in the
difference.
(c) If the Agent's Spot Rate of Exchange for the next Interest Period shows
an appreciation or depreciation of the Optional Currency against U.S.
Dollars of less than ten per cent. when compared with the result
achieved by using the Original Exchange Rate, no amounts are payable in
respect of the difference. In this Clause 8.8 and in Clause 8.9
(Prepayments and repayments) "ORIGINAL EXCHANGE RATE" means the Agent's
Spot Rate of Exchange used for determining the amount of the Optional
Currency for the Interest Period which is the later of the following:
(i) the Interest Period during which the Tranche B Advance or
Term-out Advance was first denominated in that Optional
Currency if the Tranche B Advance or Term-out Advance has
since then remained denominated in that Optional Currency; and
(ii) the most recent Interest Period immediately prior to which a
difference was required to be paid under this Clause 8.8.
8.9 PREPAYMENTS AND REPAYMENTS
If a Tranche B Advance or Term-out Advance is to be repaid or prepaid
by reference to an Original Dollar Amount, the Optional Currency amount
to be repaid or prepaid in that Optional Currency shall be determined
by reference to the Original Exchange Rate applicable to the relevant
Advance.
<PAGE>
8.10 NOTIFICATION
The Agent shall notify the Lenders and the Borrower of Optional
Currency amounts (and the applicable Agent's Spot Rate of Exchange) and
whether any payment is required to be made under Clause 8.8(b) (Same
Optional Currency) promptly after they are ascertained.
8.11 NON-BUSINESS DAYS
If an Interest Period or Term would otherwise end on a day which is not
a Business Day, that Interest Period or Term shall instead end on the
next Business Day in that calendar month (if there is one) or the
preceding Business Day (if there is not).
8.12 COINCIDENCE WITH REPAYMENT DATES
If an Interest Period for a Term-out Advance or Tranche B Advance would
otherwise overrun its Maturity Date or, as the case may be, the Tranche
B Term Date, it shall be shortened so that it ends on its Maturity Date
or, as the case may be the Tranche B Term Date.
8.13 OTHER ADJUSTMENTS
The Agent and a Borrower may enter into such other arrangements as they
may agree for the adjustment of Interest Periods and the consolidation
and/or splitting of Term-out Advances or Tranche B Advances made to
that Borrower.
9. PAYMENTS
9.1 PLACE OF PAYMENT
All payments by an Obligor or a Lender under this Agreement shall be
made to the Agent or (if the payment relates to the Swingline Facility)
the U.S. Swingline Agent to its account at such office or bank in the
principal financial centre of the country of the currency concerned
(or, in the case of euros, the financial centre of such of the Treaty
Countries or London) as it may notify to the Obligor or Lender for this
purpose.
9.2 FUNDS
Payments under this Agreement to the Agent or, as the case may be, the
U.S. Swingline Agent shall be made for value on the due date at such
times and in such funds as the Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S.
Swingline Agent may specify to the Party concerned as being customary
at the time for the settlement of transactions in the relevant currency
in the place for payment.
9.3 DISTRIBUTION
(a) Each payment received by the Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S.
Swingline Agent under this Agreement for another Party shall, subject
to paragraphs (b) and (c) below, be made available by the Agent or, as
the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent to that Party by payment (on
the date of value of receipt and in the currency and funds of receipt)
to its account with such bank in the principal financial centre of the
country of the relevant currency (or, in the case of euros, in the
principal financial centre of such of the Treaty
<PAGE>
Countries or London) as it may notify to the Agent or, as the case may
be, the U.S. Swingline Agent for this purpose by not less than five
Business Days' prior notice.
(b) The Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent may apply
any amount received by it for an Obligor in or towards payment (on the
date and in the currency and funds of receipt) of any amount due from
an Obligor under this Agreement in the same currency on such date or in
or towards the purchase of any amount of any currency to be so applied.
(c) Where a sum is to be paid under this Agreement to the Agent or, as the
case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent for the account of another Party,
the Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent is not
obliged to pay that sum to that Party until it has established that it
has actually received that sum. The Agent or, as the case may be, the
U.S. Swingline Agent may, however, assume that the sum has been paid to
it in accordance with this Agreement and, in reliance on that
assumption, make available to that Party a corresponding amount. If the
sum has not been made available but the Agent or, as the case may be,
the U.S. Swingline Agent has paid a corresponding amount to another
Party, that Party shall forthwith on demand refund the corresponding
amount to the Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent
together with interest on that amount from the date of payment to the
date of receipt, calculated at a rate reasonably determined by the
Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent to reflect its
cost of funds.
9.4 CURRENCY
(a) (i) A repayment or prepayment of an Advance is payable in the
currency in which the Advance is denominated.
(ii) Interest is payable in the currency in which the relevant
amount in respect of which it is payable is denominated.
(iii) Amounts payable in respect of costs, expenses, taxes and the
like are payable in the currency in which they are incurred.
(iv) Any other amount payable under this Agreement is, except as
otherwise provided in this Agreement, payable in U.S. Dollars.
(b) (i) Any Advance to be made in the currency of a Treaty Country
will be made in the euro unit (other than, if applicable, the
UK, which at the option of the relevant Borrower, and subject
to applicable law, may be made in Sterling); and
(ii) any amount payable by the Agent to the Lenders under this
Agreement in the currency of a Treaty Country will be paid in
the euro unit.
(c) If and to the extent that any EMU legislation provides that an amount
denominated either in the euro unit or in the national currency unit of
a given Treaty Country and payable within that Treaty Country by
crediting an account of the creditor can be paid by the debtor either
in the euro unit or in that national currency unit, each Party shall be
entitled to pay or repay that amount either in the euro unit or in the
national currency unit.
(d) If a change in any currency of a country occurs this Agreement will be
amended to the extent the Agent and Vodafone agree (such agreement not
to be unreasonably withheld) to be necessary to reflect the change in
currency and to put the Lenders and the Obligors in the same position,
as far as possible, that they would have been in if no change in
currency had occurred.
<PAGE>
9.5 SET-OFF AND COUNTERCLAIM
All payments made by an Obligor under this Agreement shall be made
without set-off or counterclaim.
9.6 NON-BUSINESS DAYS
(a) If a payment under this Agreement is due on a day which is not a
Business Day, the due date for that payment shall instead be the next
Business Day in the same calendar month (if there is one) or the
preceding Business Day (if there is not).
(b) During any extension of the due date for payment of any principal under
this Agreement interest is payable on the principal at the rate payable
on the original due date.
9.7 PARTIAL PAYMENTS
(a) If the Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent receives
a payment insufficient to discharge all the amounts then due and
payable by an Obligor under this Agreement, the Agent or, as the case
may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent shall apply that payment towards the
obligations of the Obligors under this Agreement in the following
order:
(i) FIRST, in or towards payment pro rata of any unpaid costs,
fees and expenses of the Agent and the U.S. Swingline Agent
under this Agreement;
(ii) SECONDLY, in or towards payment pro rata of any accrued fees
due but unpaid under Clause 20 (Fees);
(iii) THIRDLY, in or towards payment pro rata of any interest due
but unpaid under this Agreement;
(iv) FOURTHLY, in or towards payment pro rata of any principal due
but unpaid under this Agreement; and
(v) FIFTHLY, in or towards payment pro rata of any other sum due
but unpaid under this Agreement.
(b) The Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent, shall, if
so directed by all the Lenders, vary the order set out in
sub-paragraphs (a)(ii) to (v) above. The Agent or, as the case may be,
the U.S. Swingline Agent, shall notify the Borrowers' Agent of any such
variation.
(c) Paragraphs (a) and (b) above shall override any appropriation made by
any Obligor.
10. TAXES
10.1 GROSS-UP
All payments by an Obligor to a Finance Party under the Finance
Documents shall be made free and clear of and without deduction for or
on account of any taxes, except to the extent that the Obligor is
required by law to make payment subject to any such taxes. Subject to
Clauses 10.4 (Qualifying Lenders) and 10.5 (U.S. Taxes), if any
Relevant Tax or amounts in respect of Relevant Tax are deducted or
withheld from any amounts payable or paid by an
<PAGE>
Obligor, or paid or payable by the Agent or, as the case may be, the
U.S. Swingline Agent, to a Finance Party under the Finance Documents,
the Obligor shall pay such additional amounts as may be necessary to
ensure that the relevant Finance Party receives a net amount equal to
the full amount which it would have received had that Relevant Tax or
those amounts in respect of Relevant Tax not been so deducted or
withheld.
10.2 INDEMNITY
Without prejudice to the provisions of Clause 10.1 (Gross-up), but
subject to Clauses 10.4 (Qualifying Lenders) and 10.5 (U.S. Taxes), if
a Finance Party or the Agent (or, as the case may be the U.S. Swingline
Agent) on behalf of that Finance Party is required to make any payment
on account of any Relevant Tax on or in relation to any sum received or
receivable hereunder by such Finance Party or the Agent (or, as the
case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent) on behalf of that Finance Party
(including a sum received or receivable under this Clause 10) or any
liability in respect of any such payment is incurred by such Finance
Party or the Agent (or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent)
on behalf of that Finance Party (other than any Tax on Overall Net
Income) , the relevant Obligor shall, within five Business Days of
demand by the Agent (or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent)
indemnify such Finance Party against such payment or liability,
together with any interest, penalties, reasonable costs and reasonable
expenses payable or incurred in connection therewith other than any
such interest, penalties, costs or expenses arising as a result of a
failure by a Finance Party to make payment of such tax when due.
10.3 TAX RECEIPTS
All taxes required by law to be deducted or withheld by an Obligor from
any amounts paid or payable under the Finance Documents shall be paid
by the relevant Obligor when due and the Obligor shall, within 15 days
of the payment being made, deliver to the Agent for the relevant Lender
evidence satisfactory to that Lender (including any relevant tax
receipts which have been received) that the payment has been duly
remitted to the appropriate authority.
10.4 QUALIFYING LENDERS
(a) If any Lender is a Party but is not a Qualifying Lender (other than as
a result of the introduction, suspension, withdrawal or cancellation
of, or change in, or change in the official interpretation,
administration or official application of, any law, regulation having
the force of law, tax treaty or any published practice or published
concession of the UK Inland Revenue or any other relevant taxing or
fiscal authority in any jurisdiction with which the relevant Lender has
a connection, occurring after the Signing Date or, if later, the date
on which that Lender becomes a Party), then no Obligor resident in the
UK for the purposes of UK taxation shall be liable to pay to that
Lender under Clause 10.1 (Gross-up) or Clause 10.2 (Indemnity) any
amount in respect of taxes levied or imposed by the UK or any taxing
authority of or in the UK in excess of the amount (if any) it would
have been obliged to pay if that Lender had been a Qualifying Lender.
(b) A Treaty Lender shall promptly and, in any event, within seven Business
Days after it becomes a Lender, deliver to its local revenue authority
for certification such UK Inland Revenue forms as may be required for
that Treaty Lender to claim that payment to it by any Obligor resident
in the UK under the Finance Documents shall be exempt from tax by the
UK. If there is any change in the procedure by which certification is
to be made or to be notified to the UK Inland Revenue, the Treaty
Lender's obligations shall be modified in such manner as the Treaty
Lender may reasonably determine so that such amended obligations shall,
as far as possible, have the same or equivalent effect as the original
obligations. No
<PAGE>
Obligor resident in the UK shall be liable to pay any sums to any
Treaty Lender under Clause 10.1 (Gross-up) or Clause 10.2 (Indemnity):
(i) unless the Treaty Lender has complied with its obligations
under this Clause 10.4(b); or
(ii) in respect of any tax withheld or deducted in respect of any
payment of interest falling due more than three months after
the date on which the Treaty Lender becomes a Party (and
arising as a result of failure to secure complete exemption
from UK tax in respect of payments of interest), unless the
Treaty Lender demonstrates to the reasonable satisfaction of
Vodafone that it has taken all reasonable steps to secure such
exemption from the relevant tax authorities.
(c) Subject to (d) below, each Lender warrants to Vodafone, on each date
upon which it makes an Advance and on the due date for each payment of
interest to the Lender:
(i) that it is a Qualifying Lender, and
(ii) if it is a Treaty Lender, it has delivered (or will deliver
within the time limits specified herein) the forms described
in paragraph (b).
(d) If a Lender or, as the case may be, the Facility Office of a Lender is
aware that it is or will become unable to make the warranty set out in
sub-clause (c) of this Clause 10.4 it will promptly notify the Agent
which will notify Vodafone.
10.5 U.S. TAXES
(a) AirTouch shall not be required to pay any additional amount pursuant to
Clause 10.1 (Gross-up) or any amount pursuant to Clause 10.2
(Indemnity) in respect of United States taxes (including, without
limitation, federal, state, local or other income taxes), branch
profits or franchise taxes with respect to a sum payable by it pursuant
to this Agreement to a Lender if:
(i) on the date such Lender becomes a Party to this Agreement or
has designated a new Facility Office either:
(1) in the case of a Lender which is not a United States
person (as such term is defined in Section
7701(a)(30) of the U.S. Code), such Lender is not
entitled to submit a United States Internal Revenue
Service Form 1001 (relating to such Lender and
entitling it to a complete exemption from withholding
on interest to be received by it pursuant to this
Agreement) or a Form 4224 (relating to interest to be
received by such Lender pursuant to this Agreement)
(or any successor forms) with respect to interest
payable pursuant to this Agreement; or
(2) in the case of a Lender which is a United States
person (as such term is defined in Section
7701(a)(30) of the U.S. Code), Clause 10.1 (Gross-up)
or Clause 10.2 (Indemnity) would apply (other than as
a result of the introduction of, suspension,
withdrawal or cancellation of, or change in the
official interpretation, administration or official
application of, any law, regulation having the force
of law, tax treaty or any published practice or
published concession of the United States Internal
Revenue Service or any other relevant taxing or
fiscal authority in any jurisdiction with which the
relevant Lender has a connection, occurring after the
date the Lender
<PAGE>
becomes a Party to this Agreement or has designated a
new Facility Office); or
(ii) such Lender has failed to provide AirTouch with the
appropriate form, certificate or other information with
respect to such sum payable that it was required to provide
pursuant to paragraph (b) or (c) below and is entitled to file
under applicable law; or
(iii) such Lender is subject to such tax by reason of any connection
between the jurisdiction imposing such tax and the Lender or
its Facility Office other than a connection arising solely
from this Agreement or any transaction contemplated hereby.
(b) If a Lender is not a United States person (as such term is defined in
Section 7701(a)(30) of the U.S. Code) it shall (if and to the extent
that it is entitled to do so under applicable law) submit, as soon as
reasonably practicable after it has become a Party to this Agreement or
designates a new Facility Office, in duplicate to AirTouch duly
completed and signed copies of either United States Internal Revenue
Service Form 1001 or applicable successor form (relating to such Lender
and entitling it to complete exemption from withholding on all amounts
(to which such withholding would otherwise apply) to be received by
such Lender, including fees, pursuant to this Agreement in connection
with any borrowing by AirTouch ) as a result of a tax treaty concluded
with the United States or United States Internal Revenue Service Form
4224 or applicable successor form (relating to all amounts (to which
such withholding would otherwise apply) to be received by such Lender,
including fees, pursuant to this Agreement in connection with any
borrowing by AirTouch). Thereafter, such Lender shall (if and to the
extent that it is entitled to do so under applicable law) submit to
AirTouch such additional duly completed and signed copies of one or the
other such forms (or such successor forms as shall be adopted from time
to time by the relevant United States taxation authorities) or any
additional information, in each case as may be required under then
current United States law or regulations to claim the inapplicability
of or exemption from United States withholding taxes on payments in
respect of all amounts (to which such withholding would otherwise
apply) to be received by such Lender, including fees, pursuant to this
Agreement in connection with any borrowing by AirTouch.
(c) If a Lender is a United States person (as such term is defined in
Section 7701(a)(30) of the U.S. Code) it shall, as soon as practicable
after it has become a Party to this Agreement or designates a new
Facility Office, and thereafter, on or before the date that any such
form expires or becomes obsolete or after the occurrence of any event
requiring a change in the most recent form or forms to be delivered,
submit in duplicate to AirTouch a certificate to the effect that it is
such a United States person and shall (if and to the extent that it is
entitled to do so under applicable law) submit any additional
information that may be necessary to avoid United States withholding
taxes on all payments, including fees, (to which such withholding would
otherwise apply) to be received pursuant to this Agreement in
connection with any borrowing by AirTouch.
(d) The provisions of this Clause 10.5 shall cease to have effect if
AirTouch ceases to be a Borrower in accordance with Clause 26.5
(Novation of AirTouch's obligations).
10.6 COLLECTING AGENTS RULES
Each Lender represents to the Agent that, in the case of a Lender which
is a Lender, on the Signing Date and, in the case of a Lender which
becomes a Lender after the date of this Agreement, on the date it
becomes a Lender, in relation to the Facilities, it is:
<PAGE>
(a) either:
(i) not resident in the United Kingdom for United Kingdom
tax purposes; or
(ii) a bank as defined in section 840A of the Income and
Corporation Taxes Act 1988 and resident in the United
Kingdom; and
(b) beneficially entitled to the principal and interest payable by
the Agent to it under the Finance Documents,
(or, if it is not able to make those representations, will ensure that
it assigns, transfers or novates its rights in respect of each Advance
then made (or, if made later, when made) to an entity in respect of
which both representations are correct) and, if it is able to make
those representations on the Signing Date or the date it becomes a
Lender, shall forthwith notify the Agent if either representation
ceases to be correct.
10.7 REFUND OF TAX CREDITS
If any Obligor pays any additional amount to a Finance Party under this
Clause 10 (a "TAX PAYMENT") and that Finance Party obtains a refund of
a tax, or a credit against tax by reason of the Tax Payment (a "TAX
CREDIT") then that Finance Party shall reimburse that Obligor such
amount as can be determined to be the proportion of the Tax Credit as
will leave that Finance Party (after that reimbursement) in no better
or worse position than it would have been in if the Tax Payment had not
been paid. Nothing in this Clause 10 shall interfere with the right of
each Finance Party to arrange its affairs in whatever manner it thinks
fit and no Finance Party is obliged to disclose any information
regarding its tax affairs or computations to an Obligor which it
reasonably considers confidential.
11. MARKET DISRUPTION
11.1 MARKET DISTURBANCE
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary herein contained, if and each
time that prior to or on a Drawdown Date relative to an Advance to be
made (or the first day of any Interest Period in the case of an
outstanding Tranche B Advance or Term-out Advance):
(a) only one or no Reference Bank supplies a rate for the purposes
of determining LIBOR in accordance with paragraph (b) of such
definition; or
(b) the Agent is notified by Lenders whose participations in that
Advance would represent 50 per cent. or more of that Advance
that (i) deposits in the currency of that Advance may not in
the ordinary course of business be available to them in the
London Interbank Market for a period equal to the Interest
Period or Term concerned in amounts sufficient to fund their
participations in that Advance or (ii) LIBOR does not
adequately represent their cost of funds; or
(c) the Agent (after consultation with the Reference Banks) shall
have determined (which determination shall be conclusive and
binding upon all Parties) that by reason of circumstances
affecting the London Interbank Market generally, adequate and
fair means do not exist for ascertaining the LIBOR applicable
to such Advance during its Interest Period or Term,
<PAGE>
the Agent shall promptly give written notice of such determination or
notification to Vodafone and to each of the Lenders.
11.2 ALTERNATIVE RATES
If the Agent gives a notice under Clause 11.1 (Market disturbance):
(a) the Borrowers' Agent and the Lenders whose participations in
the relevant Advance would represent 50 per cent or more of
that Advance may (through the Agent) agree that (in the case
of a Tranche A Advance (except a Term-out Advance) or Tranche
C Advance) that Advance shall not be borrowed; or
(b) in the absence of such agreement (and in any event in the case
of a Tranche B Advance or Term-out Advance):
(i) the Interest Period or Term of the relevant Advance
shall be one month;
(ii) the Advance shall be made in the currency requested
or, in the case of Clause 11.1(b)(i) (Market
disturbance), in U.S. Dollars (or, if the currency
requested for the relevant Advance is U.S. Dollars,
Sterling); and
(iii) during the Interest Period or Term of the relevant
Advance the rate of interest applicable to such
Advance shall be the applicable Margin plus
applicable Reserve Asset Costs plus the rate per
annum notified by each Lender concerned to the Agent
before the last day of such Interest Period or Term
to be that which expresses as a percentage rate per
annum the cost to such Lender of funding its
participation in such Advance from whatever sources
it may reasonably select.
12. INCREASED COSTS
12.1 INCREASED COSTS
(a) Subject to Clause 12.2 (Exceptions), Vodafone will forthwith on demand
by a Finance Party pay that Finance Party the amount of any increased
cost incurred by it or any of its Holding Companies as a result of any
change in or introduction of any law or regulation (including any
relating to reserve asset, special deposit, cash ratio, liquidity or
capital adequacy requirements or any other form of banking or monetary
control).
(b) Promptly following the service of any demand, Vodafone will pay to that
Finance Party such amount as that Finance Party certifies in the demand
(with sufficient details for the calculations to be verified) will in
its reasonable opinion compensate it for the applicable increased cost
and in relation to the period expressed to be covered by such demand.
(c) When calculating an increased cost, a Finance Party will only apply the
costs incurred in relation to the Facilities. Nothing contained in this
Clause 12.1 shall oblige the Finance Party to disclose any information
(other than information which is readily available in the public domain
or which is not in the reasonable opinion of the Finance Party
confidential) relating to the way in which it employs its capital or
arranges its internal financial affairs.
<PAGE>
(d) In this Agreement "INCREASED COST" means:
(i) an additional cost incurred by a Finance Party or any of its
Holding Companies as a result of it performing, maintaining or
funding its obligations under, this Agreement; or
(ii) that portion of an additional cost incurred by a Finance Party
or any of its Holding Companies in making, funding or
maintaining all or any advances comprised in a class of
advances formed by or including its participations in the
Advances made or to be made under this Agreement as is
attributable to it making, funding or maintaining its
participations; or
(iii) a reduction in any amount payable to a Finance Party or the
effective return to a Finance Party under this Agreement or on
its capital (or the capital of any of its Holding Companies);
or
(iv) the amount of any payment made by a Finance Party, or the
amount of interest or other return foregone by a Finance
Party, calculated by reference to any amount received or
receivable by a Finance Party from any other Party under this
Agreement.
12.2 EXCEPTIONS
Clause 12.1 (Increased costs) does not apply to any increased cost:
(a) compensated for by the payment of the Reserve Asset Costs; or
(b) attributable to any tax or amounts in respect of tax; or
(c) attributable to the implementation by the applicable
authorities having jurisdiction over such Lender and/or its
Facility Office of the matters set out in the statement of the
Basle Committee on Banking Regulations and Supervisory
Practices dated July, 1988 and entitled "International
Convergence of Capital Measurement and Capital Standards", or
the directives of the European Council (as amended or
supplemented prior to the date of this Agreement) of 17th
April, 1989 on the own funds of credit institutions
(89/229/EEC) and of 18th December, 1989 on the solvency ratio
for credit institutions (89/647/EEC), in each case to the
extent and according to the timetable provided for therein
(unless the increased costs arise as a result of any change in
such terms or in relation to the implementation thereof in
respect of a Lender on or after the Signing Date); or
(d) occurring as a result of any negligence or default of a Lender
or its Holding Company including but not limited to a breach
by that Lender or Holding Company of any fiscal, monetary or
capital adequacy limit imposed on it by any law or regulation;
or
(e) to the extent that the increased cost was incurred in respect
of any day more than six months before the first date on which
it was reasonably practicable to notify Vodafone thereof
(except in the case of any retrospective change).
<PAGE>
13. ILLEGALITY AND MITIGATION
13.1 ILLEGALITY
If it becomes unlawful in any jurisdiction for a Lender to give effect
to any of its obligations as contemplated by this Agreement or to fund
or maintain its participation in any Advance, then the Lender may
notify the Borrowers' Agent through the Agent accordingly and
thereupon, but only to the extent necessary to remove the illegality:
(a) each Borrower shall, upon request from that Lender within the
period allowed or if no period is allowed, forthwith, repay
any participation of that Lender in the Advances made to it
together with all other amounts payable by it to that Lender
under this Agreement; and
(b) the Lender's Tranche A Commitment, Tranche B Commitment and
Tranche C Commitment shall be cancelled immediately.
13.2 MITIGATION
Notwithstanding the provisions of Clauses 10 (Taxes), 12 (Increased
Costs) and 13.1 (Illegality), if in relation to a Finance Party
circumstances arise which would result in:
(a) any deduction, withholding or payment of the nature referred
to in Clause 10 (Taxes); or
(b) any increased cost of the nature referred to in Clause 12
(Increased Costs); or
(c) a notification pursuant to Clause 13.1 (Illegality),
then without in any way limiting, reducing or otherwise qualifying the
rights of such Finance Party or the Agent, such Finance Party shall
promptly upon becoming aware of the same notify the Agent thereof
(whereupon the Agent shall promptly notify the Borrowers' Agent) and
such Finance Party shall use reasonable endeavours to transfer its
participation in the Facility and its rights hereunder and under the
Finance Documents to another financial institution or Facility Office
not affected by the circumstances having the results set out in (a),
(b) or (c) above and shall otherwise take such reasonable steps as may
be open to it to mitigate the effects of such circumstances provided
that such Finance Party shall not be under any obligation to take any
such action if, in its opinion, to do so would or would be likely to
have a material adverse effect upon its business, operations or
financial condition or would involve it in any unlawful activity or any
activity that is contrary to its policies or any request, guidance or
directive of any competent authority (whether or not having the force
of law) or (unless indemnified to its satisfaction) would involve it in
any significant expense or tax disadvantage.
14. GUARANTEE
14.1 GUARANTEE
Each Guarantor jointly and severally, irrevocably and unconditionally:
(a) as principal obligor, guarantees to each Finance Party that if
and whenever:
<PAGE>
(i) an amount is due and payable by a Borrower under or
in connection with any Finance Document; and
(ii) demand for payment of that amount has been made by
the Agent on that Borrower,
that Guarantor will forthwith on demand by the Agent pay that
amount as if that Guarantor instead of that Borrower were
expressed to be the principal obligor; and
(b) indemnifies each Finance Party on demand against any loss or
liability suffered by it if any obligation guaranteed by any
Guarantor is or becomes unenforceable, invalid or illegal (the
amount of that loss being the amount expressed to be payable
by the relevant Borrower in respect of the relevant sum).
14.2 CONTINUING GUARANTEE
This guarantee is a continuing guarantee and will extend to the
ultimate balance of all sums payable by the Borrowers under the Finance
Documents, regardless of any intermediate payment or discharge in part.
14.3 REINSTATEMENT
(a) Where any discharge (whether in respect of the obligations of any
Borrower or any security for those obligations or otherwise) is made in
whole or in part or any arrangement is made on the faith of any
payment, security or other disposition which is avoided or must be
restored on insolvency, liquidation or otherwise without limitation,
the liability of the Guarantors under this Clause 14 shall continue as
if the discharge or arrangement had not occurred (but only to the
extent that such payment, security or other disposition is avoided or
restored).
(b) Each Finance Party may concede or compromise any claim that any
payment, security or other disposition is liable to avoidance or
restoration.
14.4 WAIVER OF DEFENCES
The obligations of the Guarantors under this Clause 14 will not be
affected by any act, omission, matter or thing which, but for this
provision, would reduce, release or prejudice any of its obligations
under this Clause 14 or prejudice or diminish those obligations in
whole or in part, including (whether or not known to it or any Finance
Party):
(a) any time or waiver granted to, or composition with, any
Borrower or other person;
(b) the taking, variation, compromise, exchange, renewal or
release of, or refusal or neglect to perfect, take up or
enforce, any rights against, or security over assets of, any
Obligor or other person or any non-presentation or
non-observance of any formality or other requirement in
respect of any instrument or any failure to realise the full
value of any security;
(c) any incapacity or lack of powers, authority or legal
personality of or dissolution or change in the members or
status of a Borrower or any other person;
(d) any variation (however fundamental) or replacement of a
Finance Document so that references to that Finance Document
in this Clause 14 shall include each variation or replacement;
<PAGE>
(e) any unenforceability, illegality or invalidity of any
obligation of any person under any Finance Document, to the
intent that the Guarantors' obligations under this Clause 14
shall remain in full force and its guarantee be construed
accordingly, as if there were no unenforceability, illegality
or invalidity; and
(f) any postponement, discharge, reduction, non-provability or
other similar circumstance affecting any obligation of any
Borrower under a Finance Document resulting from any
insolvency, liquidation or dissolution proceedings or from any
law, regulation or order so that each such obligation shall,
for the purposes of the Guarantors' obligations under this
Clause 14, be construed as if there were no such circumstance.
14.5 IMMEDIATE RECOURSE
Except as provided in Clause 14.1(a)(ii), each Guarantor waives any
right it may have of first requiring any Finance Party (or any trustee
or agent on its behalf) to proceed against or enforce any other rights
or security or claim payment from any person before claiming from that
Guarantor under this Clause 14.
14.6 APPROPRIATIONS
Until all amounts which may be or become payable by the Borrowers under
or in connection with the Finance Documents have been irrevocably paid
in full, each Finance Party (or any trustee or agent on its behalf)
may:
(a) refrain from applying or enforcing any other moneys, security
or rights held or received by that Finance Party (or any
trustee or agent on its behalf) in respect of those amounts,
or apply and enforce the same in such manner and order as it
sees fit (whether against those amounts or otherwise) and no
Guarantor shall be entitled to the benefit of the same; and
(b) hold in a suspense account (bearing interest at a commercial
rate) any moneys received from any Guarantor or on account of
that Guarantor's liability under this Clause 14, with any
interest earned being credited to that account.
14.7 NON-COMPETITION
Until all amounts which may be or become payable by the Borrowers under
or in connection with the Finance Documents have been paid in full, no
Guarantor shall, after a claim has been made or by virtue of any
payment or performance by it under this Clause 14:
(a) be subrogated to any rights, security or moneys held, received
or receivable by any Finance Party (or any trustee or agent on
its behalf) or be entitled to any right of contribution or
indemnity in respect of any payment made or moneys received on
account of that Guarantor's liability under this Clause 14;
(b) claim, rank, prove or vote as a creditor of any Borrower or
its estate in competition with any Finance Party (or any
trustee or agent on its behalf); or
(c) receive, claim or have the benefit of any payment,
distribution or security from or on account of any Borrower,
or exercise any right of set-off as against any Borrower.
<PAGE>
Each Guarantor shall hold in trust for and forthwith pay or transfer to
the Agent for the Finance Parties any payment or distribution or
benefit of security received by it contrary to this Clause 14.7.
14.8 ADDITIONAL SECURITY
This guarantee is in addition to and is not in any way prejudiced by
any other security now or hereafter held by any Finance Party.
14.9 REMOVAL OF GUARANTORS
Any Guarantor which is not a Borrower (other than Vodafone), may, at
the request of the Borrowers' Agent and if no Default is continuing,
cease to be a Guarantor by entering into a supplemental agreement to
this Agreement at the cost of Vodafone in such form as the Agent may
reasonably require which shall discharge that Guarantor's obligations
as a Guarantor under this Agreement.
14.10 LIMITATION ON GUARANTEE OF U.S. GUARANTORS
Notwithstanding any other provision of this Clause 14, the obligations
of each Guarantor incorporated in the United States (a "U.S.
GUARANTOR") under this Clause 14 shall be limited to a maximum
aggregate amount equal to the largest amount that would not render its
obligations hereunder subject to avoidance as a fraudulent transfer or
conveyance under Section 548 of Title 11 of the United States
Bankruptcy Code or any applicable provisions of comparable state law
(collectively, the "FRAUDULENT TRANSFER LAWS"), in each case after
giving effect to all other liabilities of such U.S. Guarantor,
contingent or otherwise, that are relevant under the Fraudulent
Transfer Laws (specifically excluding, however, any liabilities of such
U.S. Guarantor in respect of intercompany indebtedness to the Borrowers
or Affiliates of the Borrowers to the extent that such indebtedness
would be discharged in an amount equal to the amount paid by such U.S.
Guarantor hereunder) and after giving effect as assets to the value (as
determined under the applicable provisions of the Fraudulent Transfer
Laws) of any rights to subrogation, contribution, reimbursement,
indemnity or similar rights of such U.S. Guarantor pursuant to (a)
applicable law or (b) any agreement providing for an equitable
allocation among such U.S. Guarantor and other Affiliates of the
Borrowers of obligations arising under guarantees by such parties.
15. REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
15.1 REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
Each Obligor makes the representations and warranties set out in this
Clause 15 (Representations and Warranties) to each Finance Party (in
respect of itself and its Subsidiaries only).
15.2 STATUS
It is a duly incorporated and validly existing corporation under the
laws of the jurisdiction of its incorporation.
15.3 POWERS AND AUTHORITY
It has (or in relation to the borrowing limit in the Articles of
Association of Vodafone, will on each Drawdown Date have) the power to:
<PAGE>
(a) enter into and comply with, all obligations expressed on its
part under the Finance Documents; and
(b) (in the case of a Borrower) to borrow under this Agreement;
and
(c) (in the case of a Guarantor) to give the guarantee in
Clause 14 (Guarantee),
and has (or in relation to the borrowing limit in the Articles of
Association of Vodafone, will on each Drawdown Date have) taken all
necessary actions to authorise the execution, delivery and performance
of the Finance Documents (other than, in the case of AirTouch, a
Guarantor Accession Agreement prior to the execution thereof pursuant
to Clause 26.4 (Additional Guarantors)).
15.4 NON-VIOLATION
The execution, delivery and performance of the Finance Documents will
not violate:
(a) any provisions of any existing law or regulation or statute
applicable to it; or
(b) to any material extent, any provisions of any mortgage,
contract or other undertaking to which it or any of its
Subsidiaries is a party or which is binding upon it or any of
its Subsidiaries (except, prior to the first Drawdown Date, in
relation to the borrowing limit in the Articles of Association
of Vodafone).
15.5 BORROWING LIMITS
In relation to Vodafone with effect from the first Drawdown Date,
borrowings under this Agreement up to and including the maximum amount
available under this Agreement will not cause any limit (except to the
extent the limit has been waived) on borrowings or, as the case may be,
on the giving of guarantees (whether imposed in its Articles of
Association or otherwise), or on the powers of its board of directors,
applicable to it to be exceeded.
15.6 AUTHORISATIONS
All necessary consents or authorisations of any governmental authority
or agency required by it in connection with the execution, validity,
performance or enforceability of the Finance Documents have been
obtained and are validly existing.
15.7 NO DEFAULT
Neither it nor any of its Subsidiaries which is a member of the
Restricted Group is in default under any law or agreement by which it
is bound the consequences of which would be reasonably likely to have a
material adverse effect on the ability of the Obligors (taken as a
whole) to perform their payment obligations under the Finance
Documents.
15.8 AIRTOUCH
(a) AirTouch either (i) is not an investment company required to be
registered under the United States Investment Company Act of 1940, as
amended, or (ii) is exempt from the registration provisions of that Act
pursuant to an exemption under that Act.
<PAGE>
(b) None of the transactions contemplated in this Agreement (including,
without limitation, the borrowings hereunder and the use of the
proceeds thereof) will violate or result in a violation of Section 7 of
the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (or any regulations issued pursuant
thereto, including, without limitation, Regulations D, T, U and X).
15.9 ACCOUNTS
(a) The audited consolidated financial statements of Vodafone most recently
delivered to the Agent (which, at the date of this Agreement are the
Original Group Accounts):
(i) give a true and fair view of the consolidated financial
position of the Group as at the date to which they were drawn
up; and
(ii) have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles in the UK, consistently applied.
(b) The audited consolidated financial statements of AirTouch in respect of
its most recent financial year (if any such audited statements have
been published) (which, at the date of this Agreement are the audited
consolidated financial statements of AirTouch for the year ended 31st
December, 1998 (the "AIRTOUCH 1998 ACCOUNTS")):
(i) fairly represent the consolidated financial position of
AirTouch, as at the date to which they were drawn up; and
(ii) have been prepared in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles in the United States, consistently
applied.
15.10 FINANCIAL CONDITION
(a) (Prior to the date on which the first financial statements of the Group
consolidated to include the AirTouch Group are delivered to the Agent
under Clause 16.2(a)(i) or (b) (Financial Information) only) there has
been no change in the financial condition:
(i) of the Group (taken as a whole), which has occurred since the
date to which the financial statements most recently delivered
to the Agent under Clause 16.2(a)(i) or (b) (Financial
Information) were made up (which, as at the date of this
Agreement, are the 30th September, 1998 interim consolidated
financial statements of Vodafone); or
(ii) of the AirTouch Group (taken as a whole) which has occurred
since the date to which the AirTouch 1998 Accounts were made
up,
which, in either case, would have a material adverse effect on the
ability of the Obligors (taken as a whole, and on the assumption that
the Merger has completed) to perform their payment obligations under
the Finance Documents.
(b) (On and after the date on which the first financial statements of the
Group consolidated to include the AirTouch Group are delivered to the
Agent under Clause 16.2(a)(i) or (b) (Financial Information) only)
there has been no change in the financial condition of the Group (taken
as a whole) which has occurred since the date to which the financial
statements most recently delivered to the Agent under Clause 16.2(a)(i)
or (b) (Financial Information) were made up which would have a material
adverse effect on the ability of the Obligors (taken as a whole) to
perform their payment obligations under the Finance Documents.
<PAGE>
15.11 INFORMATION
(a) The factual information in relation to the Group contained in Sections
I, II, IV (Table 1 and paragraph 1 (Refinance Existing Indebtedness)
thereof) and VII of the Information Memorandum is to the best of
Vodafone's knowledge and belief true and accurate in all material
respects as at 1st March, 1999 and did not omit as at 1st March, 1999
any information which made misleading in any material respect any
information in the Information Memorandum.
(b) All projections in Section IX of the Information Memorandum were
prepared by Vodafone based on assumptions considered by Vodafone to be
reasonable as at 1st March, 1999 and all such assumptions were provided
by Vodafone in good faith and after due enquiry.
15.12 NO EVENT OF DEFAULT
No Event of Default has occurred and is continuing in relation to it
and its Subsidiaries.
15.13 ERISA
(a) Each member of the Controlled Group has fulfilled its obligations under
the minimum funding standards of ERISA and the U.S. Code with respect
to each Plan maintained by such member or any member of the Controlled
Group.
(b) Each Obligor is in compliance with the applicable provisions of ERISA,
the U.S. Code and any other applicable United States Federal or State
law with respect to each Plan maintained by such Obligor except where
such non-fulfilment or non compliance could reasonably be expected not
to have a material adverse effect on the ability of the Obligors (taken
as a whole) to perform their payment obligations under the Finance
Documents.
(c) No Reportable Event has occurred with respect to any Plan maintained by
an Obligor or any member of the Controlled Group and no steps have been
taken to reorganise or terminate any Single Employer Plan or by that
Obligor to effect a complete or partial withdrawal from any
Multiemployer Plan except where such non compliance, Reportable Event,
reorganisation, termination or withdrawal could not reasonably be
expected to have a material adverse effect on the ability of the
Obligors (taken as a whole) to perform their payment obligations under
the Finance Documents.
(d) No member of the Controlled Group has:
(i) sought a waiver of the minimum funding standard under Section
412 of the U.S. Code in respect of any Plan; or
(ii) failed to make any contribution or payment to any Single
Employer Plan or Multiemployer Plan, or made any amendment to
any Plan, and no other event, transaction or condition has
occurred which has resulted or could result in the imposition
of a lien or the posting of a bond or other security under
ERISA or the U.S. Code; or
(iii) incurred any material, actual liability under Title I or Title
IV of ERISA other than a liability to the PBGC for premiums
under Section 4007 of ERISA.
<PAGE>
15.14 YEAR 2000
It and its Subsidiaries have taken steps that are reasonable
to ensure that the occurrence of the year 2000 will not
materially and adversely affect its and its Subsidiaries'
information and business systems.
15.15 ENVIRONMENTAL
It and its Subsidiaries are each in compliance with all
applicable environmental laws where non-compliance is
reasonably likely to have a material adverse effect on the
ability of the Obligors (taken as a whole) to perform their
payment obligations under the Finance Documents.
15.16 TIMES FOR MAKING REPRESENTATIONS AND WARRANTIES
(a) The representations and warranties set out in this Clause 15
(Representations and warranties) are made by each Obligor on
the Signing Date and, subject to Clause 4.4 (Certain Funds
Period), (except for Clauses 15.11 (Information) and 15.14
(Year 2000)) are deemed to be made again by each Obligor on
the date of each Request, on each Drawdown Date and on the
first day of each Interest Period with reference to the facts
and circumstances then existing.
(b) The representation and warranty by Vodafone in clause 15.11
(Information) will be given on the Signing Date by reference
to the facts and circumstances existing on 1st March, 1999.
(c) The representation and warranty by Vodafone in Clause 15.11
(Information) will be deemed to be made again (but only in
relation to any updates to the Information Memorandum prepared
by Vodafone for the purposes of syndication):
(i) on the date notified to it by the Agent as the date
on which the sub-underwriters become Parties to this
Agreement as Lenders; and
(ii) on the last day of the Primary Syndication Period,
in each case by reference to the facts and circumstances
existing on the date the updates were prepared by Vodafone.
16. UNDERTAKINGS
16.1 DURATION
The undertakings in this Clause 16 will remain in force from
the Signing Date for so long as any amount is or may be
outstanding under this Agreement or any Commitment is in
force.
16.2 FINANCIAL INFORMATION
Each Obligor shall supply to the Agent in sufficient copies
for all the Lenders:
(a) as soon as the same are publicly available (and in
any event within 180 days of the end of each of its
financial years):
(i) in the case of Vodafone, the audited
consolidated financial statements of the
Group for that financial year; and
<PAGE>
(ii) in the case of each other Obligor, (if
published) its audited statutory accounts
for that financial year, consolidated if it
has Subsidiaries and consolidated accounts
are prepared and published;
(b) in the case of Vodafone, as soon as the same are
publicly available (and in any event within 90 days
of the end of the first half-year of each of its
financial years) the interim unaudited financial
statements of the Group for that half-year;
(c) in the case of Vodafone, together with any accounts
specified in paragraph (a)(i) above:
(i) a certificate signed by its auditors
establishing compliance with Clause 17
(Financial Covenants) as at the date to
which those accounts were drawn up; and
(ii) a certificate signed by a director of
Vodafone establishing (in reasonable
detail):
(1) compliance with Clause 16.8
(Priority borrowing) as at the date
to which those accounts were drawn
up, and identifying the Principal
Subsidiaries, on the basis of those
accounts; and
(2) only if the Total Commitments are
more than U.S.$10,000,000,000, the
aggregate amount of the Net Cash
Proceeds of all Asset Disposals
falling within Clause 7.6(a)
(Mandatory Prepayment from Asset
Disposals and Bond Issues) for the
relevant financial year; and
(d) in the case of Vodafone, together with any accounts
specified in paragraph (b) above, a certificate
signed by a director of Vodafone establishing (in
reasonable detail) compliance with Clauses 16.8
(Priority borrowing) and 17 (Financial Covenants) as
at the date to which those accounts were drawn up,
and identifying the Principal Subsidiaries, on the
basis of those accounts.
16.3 INFORMATION - MISCELLANEOUS
Vodafone shall supply to the Agent:
(a) all documents despatched by it to its shareholders
(or any class of them) or its creditors generally (or
any class of them) in relation to it or its
Subsidiaries at the same time as they are despatched;
and
(b) as soon as reasonably practicable, such further
publicly available information in the possession or
control of any member of the Group regarding the
business, financial or corporate affairs of the
Group, as the Agent may reasonably request,
in sufficient copies for all the Lenders, if the Agent so
requests.
16.4 NOTIFICATION OF DEFAULT
Vodafone shall notify the Agent of any Default (and the steps,
if any, being taken to remedy it) promptly upon becoming aware
of it.
<PAGE>
16.5 AUTHORISATIONS
(a) Each Obligor shall promptly:
(i) obtain, maintain and comply with the terms of; and
(ii) if requested, supply certified copies to the Agent
of,
any authorisation required under any law or regulation to
enable it to perform its obligations under, or for the
validity or enforceability of, any Finance Document.
(b) Vodafone will notify the Agent as soon as practicable after a
Certificate of Merger is filed with the Secretary of State of
the State of Delaware in accordance with Section 1.2.2 of the
Merger Agreement, specifying in such notice the effective date
of the Merger.
16.6 PARI PASSU RANKING
Each Obligor will procure that its obligations under the
Finance Documents do and will rank at least pari passu with
all its other present and future unsecured and unsubordinated
obligations (save for those obligations mandatorily preferred
by applicable law).
16.7 NEGATIVE PLEDGE
No Obligor will, and each Obligor will procure that none of
its Subsidiaries which is a member of the Restricted Group
will, create or permit to subsist any Security Interest on or
over any of its assets except for any Permitted Security
Interest.
16.8 PRIORITY BORROWING
Each Obligor will procure that none of its Subsidiaries (which
is a member of the Restricted Group and which is not a
Guarantor) will create, assume, incur, guarantee, permit to
subsist or otherwise be liable in respect of any Financial
Indebtedness owed to persons outside the Restricted Group
except for:
(a) Financial Indebtedness existing in any Subsidiary
(except AirTouch or any of its Subsidiaries as at the
Signing Date) which becomes a member of the
Restricted Group after the Signing Date provided:
(i) any such Financial Indebtedness is in
existence before that Subsidiary becomes a
member of the Restricted Group and is not
created in contemplation of that Subsidiary
becoming a member of the Restricted Group;
and
(ii) to the extent that the aggregate principal
amount of such Financial Indebtedness
outstanding upon that Subsidiary becoming a
member of the Restricted Group is thereafter
exceeded (measured in the same currency),
the excess amount of such Financial
Indebtedness shall not fall within this
paragraph (a); or
(b) Financial Indebtedness under finance or structured
tax lease arrangements to the extent matched as part
of those arrangements by deposits of cash or cash
equivalent investments (including, but not limited to
securities issued by G7 governments) which are
treated by the creditor concerned as available to
reduce its net exposure; or
<PAGE>
(c) Financial Indebtedness which is created with the
prior written consent of the Majority Lenders; or
(d) Financial Indebtedness of members of the Restricted
Group to the extent matched by cash balances held by
members of the Restricted Group which are treated as
available for netting by the creditors of that
Financial Indebtedness under cash management or
netting arrangements in the ordinary course of
business; or
(e) Financial Indebtedness under any finance lease
entered into in respect of assets which are acquired
after the Signing Date; or
(f) Financial Indebtedness under or in connection with
any other finance lease entered into in respect of
existing assets or future assets (to the extent they
are subject to Security Interests contemplated under
paragraph (j) of the definition of Permitted Security
Interests) provided that any amounts raised by
entering into that finance lease are applied within
90 days after creation of such lease to reduce the
Facilities; or
(g) Financial Indebtedness under Back to Back Loans; or
(h) deferred consideration in respect of:
(i) acquisitions completed by Vodafone or its
Subsidiaries prior to the Signing Date not
exceeding an aggregate principal amount of
(pound)50,000,000 or its equivalent; or
(ii) the cost of future Acquisitions completed
after the Signing Date payable within 12
months of completion of the Acquisition or,
to the extent payable after 12 months, not
exceeding, at any time an aggregate
principal amount of (pound)100,000,000 or
its equivalent; or
(i) Financial Indebtedness of any Subsidiary of Vodafone
which operates only as a finance company for the
Group to the extent the proceeds are on-lent to a
Guarantor (or to a Subsidiary which is not a member
of the Restricted Group); or
(j) Financial Indebtedness of AirTouch under bonds issued
by AirTouch in existence at the Signing Date to the
extent the aggregate principal amount does not exceed
U.S.$1,600,000,000 (in respect of its existing bonds
denominated in U.S. Dollars) and DM400,000,000 (in
respect of its existing bonds denominated in Deutsche
Marks); or
(k) Financial Indebtedness under this Agreement; or
(l) Financial Indebtedness of AirTouch existing at the
Merger Date under commercial paper programmes of
AirTouch (but this paragraph (l) only applies until
the date falling three months after the Merger Date);
or
(m) other Financial Indebtedness to the extent that the
sum of:
(i) the aggregate unpaid principal amount of the
Financial Indebtedness of all the members of
the Restricted Group which are not
Guarantors and owed to persons outside the
Restricted Group (other than Financial
Indebtedness under paragraphs (a) to (l)
above inclusive); plus
<PAGE>
(ii) the aggregate unpaid principal amount of
Financial Indebtedness secured under
paragraph (q) of the definition of Permitted
Security Interest (to the extent not falling
within (m)(i) above),
does not exceed (pound)750,000,000 or its equivalent.
Compliance with this Clause 16.8 will be tested at the end of
each month. Financial Indebtedness of the Restricted Group not
denominated in (or which has not been swapped into) Sterling
shall be notionally converted (from the currency in which it
is denominated or, as the case may be, into which it has been
swapped) to Sterling at the rate of exchange used in the
management accounts of the relevant Obligor for that month.
16.9 DISPOSALS
No Obligor will, and each Obligor will procure that none of
its Subsidiaries which is a member of the Restricted Group
will, either in a single transaction or in a series of
transactions, whether related or not and whether voluntarily
or involuntarily, make any Asset Disposals other than:
(a) Asset Disposals on arm's length terms which are, in
the opinion of an Obligor, at fair market value;
(b) Asset Disposals required by law or any governmental
authority or agency (including without limitation any
authority or agency of the European Union);
(c) Asset Disposals made in good faith for the purpose of
carrying on the business of the Group which it is
reasonable to believe will benefit the Group; and
(d) (before the Merger Date) Asset Disposals, for this
purpose defined as if AirTouch were a member of the
Group, made in good faith for the purpose of carrying
on the business of the AirTouch Group which it is
reasonable to believe will benefit the AirTouch
Group.
16.10 RESTRICTION ON ACQUISITIONS
Vodafone will not, and will procure that no member of the
Group will, make any Acquisition unless the major part of the
Group's business remains telecommunications and associated
business.
17. FINANCIAL COVENANTS
17.1 FINANCIAL DEFINITIONS
In this Clause 17:
"APPLICABLE UK GAAP"
means the generally accepted accounting principles applying to
the United Kingdom as at 31st March, 1999 and consistent with
those applied in the preparation of the interim consolidated
accounts of Vodafone for the six month period ending 30th
September, 1998.
<PAGE>
"ASSOCIATED COMPANY"
means any company in which any member of the Group holds a
material share of the equity and, in the opinion of the
directors of Vodafone, can exercise a significant influence in
such company's management and which is treated as such under
Applicable UK GAAP for the purpose of preparation of the
relevant financial statements.
"AVAILABLE CASH"
means:
(a) cash in hand or on deposit at call or for periods up
to 90 days with any bank or financial institution;
(b) securities issued or guaranteed by the UK government,
the United States government or the government of any
other G7 country;
(c) (i) marketable debt securities rated at least
A-2 by Moody's or A by S&P (taken at their
market value as at the time for
calculation); and
(ii) commercial paper rated at least A-1 by S&P
or P1 by Moody's;
(d) deposits made with the Commissioners of Inland
Revenue in respect of which certificates of tax
deposits have been issued by Her Majesty's Treasury;
(e) Sterling bills of exchange eligible for rediscount at
the Bank of England;
(f) the face amounts of certificates of deposit issued by
a bank or a building society; and
(g) any other instrument, security or investment approved
in writing by the Majority Lenders,
to the extent denominated in any freely convertible and
transferable currencies and beneficially owned by a member of
the Group unencumbered by any Security Interests other than
Permitted Security Interests.
"CONSOLIDATED PROFITS BEFORE INTEREST, AMORTISATION AND TAX"
means, in relation to any period, a sum equal to the Group's
total operating profit for continuing operations, acquisitions
(as a component of continuing operations) and discontinued
operations before taxation and after adding back Interest
Payable and amortisation but:
(a) deducting profits or adding back losses from a sale
or termination of an operation;
(b) deducting profits or adding back losses on a disposal
of fixed assets;
(c) adding back costs (whether exceptional or otherwise)
of a fundamental reorganisation or restructuring
having a material effect on the nature and focus of
the Group's operations;
(d) excluding extraordinary items; and
<PAGE>
(e) excluding the results of any Associated Company or
any Investee Company.
"EBITDA"
means, in respect of any period, Consolidated Profits Before
Interest, Amortisation and Tax for that period after adding
back depreciation.
"INTEREST PAYABLE"
means, in respect of any period, all interest, and amounts in
the nature of interest incurred by the Group in effecting,
servicing or maintaining Total Consolidated Borrowings during
that period as shown in the financial statements of the Group
as "Interest payable and similar charges" or any comparable
entry, but:
(a) including as interest dividends paid on existing
preference shares of the Vodafone Group or AirTouch
Group; and
(b) excluding any interest or other such charges incurred
by any Associated Company or Investee Company.
"INTEREST RECEIVABLE"
means, in respect of any period, interest and amounts in the
nature of interest received or receivable by the Group during
that period, as shown in the financial statements of the Group
as "Interest receivable and similar income" or any comparable
entry but excluding any interest or other such income received
by any Associated Company or Investee Company.
"INVESTEE COMPANY"
means any company in which any member of the Group holds an
investment (whether by way of an equity shareholding and/or
long term loan) which is held as and stated as being a fixed
asset investment in the relevant financial statements of the
Group.
"NET DEBT"
means, at any time, Total Consolidated Borrowings at that time
less Available Cash at that time.
"NET INTEREST PAYABLE"
means, in respect of any period, Interest Payable less
Interest Receivable in that period.
"TOTAL CONSOLIDATED BORROWINGS"
means, at any time, the aggregate outstanding principal amount
of all Financial Indebtedness of the Group on a consolidated
basis at that time and includes shares redeemable before the
Final Maturity Date and convertible debt (until converted).
17.2 FINANCIAL RATIOS
Vodafone will procure that:
<PAGE>
(a) the ratio of Consolidated Profits Before Interest,
Amortisation and Tax to Net Interest Payable will
exceed 2.50:1 for each Ratio Period ending on or
before 31st March, 2000 and 3.0:1 for each Ratio
Period thereafter; and
(b) the ratio of Net Debt to EBITDA will not exceed
3.75:1 for any Ratio Period ending on or before 31st
March, 2000 and 3.5:1 for any Ratio Period
thereafter,
and for the purposes of subclause (b) above, "NET DEBT" for
any Ratio Period will be calculated as the aggregate of the
Net Debt outstanding on the last day of each month during that
Ratio Period (as shown in Vodafone's consolidated management
accounts prepared at the end of each month in that Ratio
Period) divided by the number of months in that Ratio Period.
17.3 CALCULATION TIMES AND PERIODS
The first test date for the financial ratios specified in
Clause 17.2 (Financial ratios) will occur at the first half
year or year end after the Merger Date provided this occurs at
least three complete calendar months after the date (the
"MERGER ACCOUNTS DATE") from which the results of AirTouch are
consolidated into Vodafone's financial statements. Each
subsequent test date will be on the last day of each financial
half year and year of Vodafone. The financial ratios will be
calculated using data for the period (each a "RATIO PERIOD")
ending on each test date and beginning:
(a) in respect of the first test date, on the Merger
Accounts Date;
(b) in respect of the second test date, on the later of
the Merger Accounts Date and the date which is 12
months before the second test date; and
(c) thereafter, 12 months before the relevant test date,
and for any Ratio Period of less than 12 months, EBITDA will
be adjusted so as to produce an annualised figure by
multiplying EBITDA for that Ratio Period by 12 and dividing by
the number of months in that Ratio Period.
17.4 INFORMATION SOURCES
(a) All information for calculation of the financial ratios set
out in Clause 17.2 (Financial ratios), except Net Debt and
information for Ratio Periods falling less than 12 months from
the Merger Accounts Date (which information will (to the
extent that information from the audited or interim statements
referred to below is not available) be taken from Vodafone's
consolidated management accounts), will be extracted from
figures appearing in the unaudited interim financial
statements of Vodafone or the consolidated annual financial
statements of Vodafone as the case may be delivered to the
Agent under sub-clauses (a)(i) and (b) of Clause 16.2
(Financial information).
(b) If Vodafone applies accounting principles other than
Applicable UK GAAP in the preparation of any financial
statements delivered under Clauses 16.2(a)(i) or (b) (or
consolidated management accounts, where appropriate) and those
accounting principles would have a material effect on the
operation of the tests and ratios set out above, such
financial statements will be accompanied by a statement from
Vodafone containing or appending a reconciliation
demonstrating the effect of the change(s) and, for the purpose
of calculating the tests and ratios set out above, such
financial statements (or consolidated management accounts,
where appropriate) will be treated as though adjusted by that
reconciliation so as to exclude the effect of the changes.
<PAGE>
(c) Information from Vodafone's consolidated management accounts
will be disclosed only when the relevant interim or annual
financial statements and compliance certificates are delivered
to the Agent.
(d) Any amount outstanding in a currency other than Sterling is to
be taken into account at its Sterling equivalent calculated at
the rate used in the latest consolidated financial statements
delivered to the Agent under Clause 16.2 (Financial
information) or consolidated management accounts, as
appropriate.
18. DEFAULT
18.1 EVENTS OF DEFAULT
Each of the events set out in Clauses 18.2 (Non-payment) to
18.14 (Litigation) (inclusive) is an Event of Default (whether
or not caused by any reason whatsoever outside the control of
any Obligor or any other person).
18.2 NON-PAYMENT
An Obligor does not pay within four Business Days of the due
date any amount payable by it under the Finance Documents at
the place at, and in the currency in, which it is expressed to
be payable.
18.3 BREACH OF OTHER OBLIGATIONS
(a) Vodafone does not comply with Clause 17 (Financial covenants).
(b) An Obligor does not comply with any provision of the Finance
Documents (other than those referred to in paragraph (a) above
or in Clause 18.2 (Non-payment)) and such failure (if capable
of remedy before the expiry of such period) continues
unremedied for a period of 21 days from the earlier of the
date on which (i) such Obligor has become aware of the failure
to comply or (ii) the Agent gives notice to the Borrowers'
Agent requiring the same to be remedied.
18.4 MISREPRESENTATION
A representation or warranty made or repeated by any Obligor
in any Finance Document is found to be untrue in any material
respect when made or deemed to have been made.
18.5 CROSS DEFAULT
(a) Any Financial Indebtedness of a member of the Restricted Group
is not paid when due or within any originally applicable grace
period or becomes prematurely due and payable or capable of
being declared prematurely due and payable as a result of an
event of default (howsoever described) under the document
relating to that Financial Indebtedness.
(b) Paragraph (a) above shall not apply in respect of:
(i) Financial Indebtedness where the aggregate principal
amount of all Financial Indebtedness to which any
event specified in paragraph (a) relates is less than
(pound)25,000,000; or
<PAGE>
(ii) any amount which is being contested in good faith; or
(iii) the relevant Financial Indebtedness is owed to a
member of the Restricted Group; or
(iv) in the case of Financial Indebtedness which has not
become due and payable, the relevant event of default
is an event of default under a bond and is capable of
waiver by the bond trustee without bondholder
consent.
18.6 WINDING UP
An order is made or an effective resolution is passed for
winding up any Obligor or any Principal Subsidiary (except for
the purposes of a reconstruction or amalgamation on terms
previously approved in writing by the Majority Lenders) or a
petition is presented (which is not set aside or withdrawn
within the earlier of 21 days of its presentation or by not
later than two Business Days prior to the date for the hearing
of such petition) for an administration order or for the
winding up of any Obligor or any Principal Subsidiary except
where demonstrated to the reasonable satisfaction of the
Majority Lenders that any such winding up petition is being
contested in good faith.
18.7 INSOLVENCY PROCESS
(a) A liquidator, administrator, receiver, trustee, sequestrator
or similar officer is appointed in respect of all or any part
of the assets of any Obligor or any Principal Subsidiary which
generates a material part of the revenues of that Obligor or
that Principal Subsidiary; or
(b) any Obligor or any Principal Subsidiary, by reason of
financial difficulties, enters into a composition, assignment
or arrangement with any class of its creditors.
18.8 ENFORCEMENT PROCEEDINGS
A distress, execution, attachment or other legal process is
levied, enforced or sued out upon or against all or any part
of the assets of any Obligor or any Principal Subsidiary which
generates a material part of the revenues of that Obligor or
that Principal Subsidiary except where the same is being
contested in good faith or is removed, discharged or paid
within 21 days.
18.9 INSOLVENCY
Any Obligor or any Principal Subsidiary is deemed under
Section 123(1)(e) or 123(2) of the Insolvency Act 1986 to be
unable to pay its debts.
18.10 SIMILAR PROCEEDINGS
Anything having a substantially similar effect to any of the
events specified in Clauses 18.6 (Winding up) to 18.9
(Insolvency) inclusive shall occur under the laws of any
applicable jurisdiction in relation to any Obligor or any
Principal Subsidiary.
18.11 UNLAWFULNESS
It is or becomes unlawful for any Obligor to perform any of
its payment or other material obligations under the Finance
Documents.
<PAGE>
18.12 GUARANTEE
The guarantee of any Guarantor under Clause 14 (Guarantee) is
not effective or is alleged by an Obligor to be ineffective
for any reason (other than by reason of written release or
waiver by the Finance Parties or in accordance with Clause
14.9 (Removal of Guarantors)).
18.13 CESSATION OF BUSINESS
Any Obligor or any Principal Subsidiary ceases to carry on all
or substantially all of its business otherwise than:
(a) as a result of a transfer of all or any part of its
business to a member of the Group which is, or upon
such transfer becomes, a Principal Subsidiary; or
(b) as a result of a disposal permitted under Clause 16.9
(Disposals); or
(c) with the prior written consent of the Majority
Lenders.
18.14 LITIGATION
Any litigation proceedings are current which are reasonably
likely to be adversely determined and which would be
reasonably likely to have a materially adverse effect on the
ability of the Obligors (taken as a whole) to perform their
payment obligations under the Finance Documents.
18.15 ACCELERATION
(a) On and at any time after the occurrence of an Event of Default
while such event is continuing the Agent may, and if so
directed by the Majority Lenders, will by notice to the
Borrowers' Agent, declare that an Event of Default has
occurred and:
(i) subject to paragraph (b) below, cancel the Total
Commitments; and/or
(ii) demand that all the Advances, together with accrued
interest, and all other amounts accrued under this
Agreement be immediately due and payable, whereupon
they shall become immediately due and payable; and/or
(iii) demand that all the Advances be payable on demand,
whereupon they shall immediately become payable on
demand.
(b) If, prior to the Merger Date, an event occurs or circumstances
arise solely in relation to a member of the AirTouch Group
which, but for this Clause 18.15(b) would otherwise constitute
a breach of this Agreement, the Lenders will not be able to
cancel any part of the Total Commitments unless that event or
circumstance would, but for this Clause 18.15(b), constitute
an Event of Default and continues unremedied and unwaived for
45 days from the date on which Vodafone becomes aware of such
event or circumstance. Notwithstanding the foregoing, no
Request may be made while such an event or circumstance is
continuing.
<PAGE>
19. THE AGENTS AND THE ARRANGERS
19.1 APPOINTMENT AND DUTIES OF THE AGENTS
Each Finance Party (other than the Agent) irrevocably appoints
the Agent to act as its agent under and in connection with the
Finance Documents and each Swingline Lender appoints the U.S.
Swingline Agent to act as its agent in relation to the
Swingline Facility, and each Finance Party irrevocably
authorises the Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S.
Swingline Agent on its behalf to perform the duties and to
exercise the rights, powers and discretions that are
specifically delegated to it under or in connection with the
Finance Documents, together with any other incidental rights,
powers and discretions. The Agent or, as the case may be, the
U.S. Swingline Agent shall have only those duties which are
expressly specified in this Agreement. Those duties are solely
of a mechanical and administrative nature.
19.2 ROLE OF THE ARRANGERS
Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement, no Arranger
has any obligations of any kind to any other Party under or in
connection with any Finance Document.
19.3 RELATIONSHIP
The relationship between the Agent or, as the case may be, the
U.S. Swingline Agent and the other Finance Parties is that of
agent and principal only. Nothing in this Agreement
constitutes the Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S.
Swingline Agent as trustee or fiduciary for any other Party or
any other person and the Agent or, as the case may be, the
U.S. Swingline Agent need not hold in trust any moneys paid to
it for a Party or be liable to account for interest on those
moneys.
19.4 MAJORITY LENDERS' DIRECTIONS
(a) The Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent
will be fully protected if it acts in accordance with the
instructions of the Majority Lenders in connection with the
exercise of any right, power or discretion or any matter not
expressly provided for in the Finance Documents. Any such
instructions given by the Majority Lenders will be binding on
all the Lenders. In the absence of such instructions the Agent
or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent may act as it
considers to be in the best interests of all the Lenders.
(b) Neither the Agent nor the Swingline Agent is authorised to act
on behalf of a Lender (without first obtaining that Lender's
consent) in any legal or arbitration proceedings relating to
any Finance Document.
19.5 DELEGATION
The Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent may
act under the Finance Documents through its personnel and
agents.
19.6 RESPONSIBILITY FOR DOCUMENTATION
Neither the Agent, the U.S. Swingline Agent nor any Arranger
is responsible to any other Party for:
(a) the execution, genuineness, validity, enforceability
or sufficiency of any Finance Document or any other
document by any other Party;
<PAGE>
(b) the collectability of amounts payable under any
Finance Document; or
(c) the accuracy of any statements (whether written or
oral) made in or in connection with any Finance
Document by any other Party.
19.7 DEFAULT
(a) The Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent is
not obliged to monitor or enquire as to whether or not a
Default has occurred. Neither the Agent nor the U.S. Swingline
Agent will be deemed to have knowledge of the occurrence of a
Default. However, if the Agent or, as the case may be, the
U.S. Swingline Agent receives notice from a Party referring to
this Agreement, describing the Default and stating that the
event is a Default, it shall promptly notify the Lenders of
such notice.
(b) The Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent may
require the receipt of security satisfactory to it whether by
way of payment in advance or otherwise, against any liability
or loss which it will or may incur in taking any proceedings
or action arising out of or in connection with any Finance
Document before it commences these proceedings or takes that
action.
19.8 EXONERATION
(a) Without limiting paragraph (b) below, the Agent or, as the
case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent will not be liable to
any other Party for any action taken or not taken by it under
or in connection with any Finance Document, unless directly
caused by its negligence or wilful misconduct or breach of any
of its obligations under or in connection with the Finance
Documents.
(b) No Party may take any proceedings against any officer,
employee or agent being an individual of the Agent or, as the
case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent in respect of any claim
it might have against the Agent or, as the case may be, the
U.S. Swingline Agent or in respect of any act or omission of
any kind (including negligence or wilful misconduct) by that
officer, employee or agent in relation to any Finance
Document.
19.9 RELIANCE
The Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent
may:
(a) rely on any notice or document reasonably believed by
it to be genuine and correct and to have been signed
by, or with the authority of, the proper person;
(b) rely on any statement made by a director or employee
of any person regarding any matters which may
reasonably be assumed to be within his knowledge or
within his power to verify; and
(c) engage, pay for and rely on legal or other
professional advisers selected by it (including those
in the Agent's or, as the case may be, the U.S.
Swingline Agent's employment and those representing a
Party other than the Agent or, as the case may be,
the U.S. Swingline Agent).
<PAGE>
19.10 CREDIT APPROVAL AND APPRAISAL
Without affecting the responsibility of any Obligor for
information supplied by it or on its behalf in connection with
any Finance Document, each Lender confirms that it:
(a) has made its own independent investigation and
assessment of the financial condition and affairs of
each Obligor and its related entities in connection
with its participation in this Agreement and has not
relied exclusively on any information provided to it
by the Agent, the U.S. Swingline Agent or the
Arrangers in connection with any Finance Document;
and
(b) will continue to make its own independent appraisal
of the creditworthiness of each Obligor and its
related entities while any amount is or may be
outstanding under the Finance Documents or any
Commitment is in force.
19.11 INFORMATION
(a) The Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent
shall promptly forward to the person concerned the original or
a copy of any document which is delivered to the Agent or, as
the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent by a Party for that
person.
(b) The Agent shall promptly supply a Lender with a copy of each
document received by the Agent under Clauses 4 (Conditions
Precedent), or 26.4 (Additional Guarantors) upon the request
and at the expense of that Lender.
(c) Except where this Agreement specifically provides otherwise,
the Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent is
not obliged to review or check the accuracy or completeness of
any document it forwards to another Party.
(d) Except as provided above, the Agent or, as the case may be,
the U.S. Swingline Agent has no duty:
(i) either initially or on a continuing basis to provide
any Lender with any credit or other information
concerning the financial condition or affairs of any
Borrower or any related entity of any Borrower
whether coming into its possession or that of any of
its related entities before, on or after the Signing
Date; or
(ii) unless specifically requested to do so by a Lender in
accordance with this Agreement, to request any
certificates or other documents from any Borrower.
19.12 THE AGENT AND THE ARRANGERS INDIVIDUALLY
(a) If it is also a Lender, each of the Agent, the U.S. Swingline
Agent and the Arrangers has the same rights and powers under
this Agreement as any other Lender and may exercise those
rights and powers as though it were not the Agent, the U.S.
Swingline Agent or an Arranger.
(b) Each of the Agent, the U.S. Swingline Agent and the Arrangers
may:
(i) carry on any business with a Borrower or its related
entities;
(ii) act as agent or trustee for, or in relation to any
financing involving, a Borrower or its related
entities; and
<PAGE>
(iii) retain any profits or remuneration in connection with
its activities under the Finance Documents, or in
relation to any of the foregoing.
19.13 INDEMNITIES
(a) Without limiting the liability of any Obligor under the
Finance Documents, each Lender shall forthwith on demand
indemnify the Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline
Agent for its proportion of any liability or loss incurred by
the Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent in
any way relating to or arising out of its acting as the Agent
or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent, except to
the extent that the liability or loss arises directly from the
Agent's or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent's
negligence or wilful misconduct.
(b) A Lender's proportion of the liability or loss set out in
paragraph (a) above is the proportion which its Commitment
bears to the Total Commitments at the date of demand or, if
the Total Commitments have been cancelled, bore to the Total
Commitments immediately before being cancelled.
19.14 COMPLIANCE
(a) The Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent,
may refrain from doing anything which might, in its reasonable
opinion, constitute a breach of any law or regulation or be
otherwise actionable at the suit of any person, and may do
anything which, in its reasonable opinion, is necessary or
desirable to comply with any law or regulation of any
jurisdiction.
(b) Without limiting paragraph (a) above, the Agent or, as the
case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent, need not disclose any
information relating to any Obligor or any of its related
entities if the disclosure might, in the opinion of the Agent
or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent, constitute a
breach of any law or regulation or any duty of secrecy or
confidentiality or be otherwise actionable at the suit of any
person.
19.15 RESIGNATION OF AGENTS
(a) Notwithstanding its irrevocable appointment, the Agent or, as
the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent, may resign by
giving notice to the Lenders and Vodafone, in which case the
Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent, may
forthwith appoint one of its Affiliates as successor Agent or,
failing that, the Majority Lenders may after consultation with
the Borrowers' Agent appoint a reputable and experienced bank
as successor Agent or, as the case may be, successor U.S.
Swingline Agent.
(b) If the appointment of a successor Agent or, as the case may
be, successor U.S. Swingline Agent is to be made by the
Majority Lenders but they have not, within 30 days after
notice of resignation, appointed a successor Agent or, as the
case may be, successor U.S. Swingline Agent which accepts the
appointment, the retiring Agent or, as the case may be, the
retiring U.S. Swingline Agent may, following consultation with
the Borrowers' Agent, appoint a successor Agent or, as the
case may be, successor U.S. Swingline Agent.
(c) The resignation of the retiring Agent or, as the case may be,
retiring U.S. Swingline Agent and the appointment of any
successor Agent or, as the case may be, successor U.S.
Swingline Agent will both become effective only upon the
successor Agent or, as the case may be, successor U.S.
Swingline Agent notifying all the Parties that it accepts the
appointment. On giving the notification and receiving such
approval, the successor Agent or, as the case may be,
successor U.S. Swingline Agent will succeed to the position of
the retiring Agent or, as
<PAGE>
the case may be, retiring U.S. Swingline Agent and the term
"AGENT" or, as the case may be, "U.S. SWINGLINE AGENT" will
mean the successor Agent or, as the case may be, successor
U.S. Swingline Agent.
(d) The retiring Agent or, as the case may be, retiring U.S.
Swingline Agent shall, at its own cost, make available to the
successor Agent or, as the case may be, successor U.S.
Swingline Agent such documents and records and provide such
assistance as the successor Agent or, as the case may be,
successor U.S. Swingline Agent may reasonably request for the
purposes of performing its functions as the Agent or, as the
case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent under this Agreement.
(e) Upon its resignation becoming effective, this Clause 19 shall
continue to benefit the retiring Agent or, as the case may be,
retiring U.S. Swingline Agent in respect of any action taken
or not taken by it under or in connection with the Finance
Documents while it was the Agent or, as the case may be, the
U.S. Swingline Agent, and, subject to paragraph (d) above, it
shall have no further obligation under any Finance Document.
(f) The Majority Lenders may by notice to the Agent or, as the
case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent, require it to resign in
accordance with paragraph (a) above. In this event, the Agent
or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent shall resign
in accordance with paragraph (a) above but it shall not be
entitled to appoint one of its Affiliates as successor Agent
or successor U.S. Swingline Agent.
19.16 LENDERS
The Agent or, as the case may be, the U.S. Swingline Agent may
treat each Lender as a Lender, entitled to payments under this
Agreement and as acting through its Facility Office(s) until
it has received notice from the Lender to the contrary by not
less than five Business Days prior to the relevant payment.
19.17 CHINESE WALL
In acting as Agent, U.S. Swingline Agent or Arranger, the
agency and syndications division of each of the Agent, the
U.S. Swingline Agent and the Arrangers shall be treated as a
separate entity from its other divisions and departments. Any
information acquired at any time by the Agent, the U.S.
Swingline Agent or any Arranger otherwise than in the capacity
of Agent, U.S. Swingline Agent or Arranger through its agency
and syndications division (whether as financial advisor to any
member of the Group or otherwise) may be treated as
confidential by the Agent, U.S. Swingline Agent or Arranger
and shall not be deemed to be information possessed by the
Agent, U.S. Swingline Agent or Arranger in their capacity as
such. Each Finance Party acknowledges that the Agent, the U.S.
Swingline Agent and the Arrangers may, now or in the future,
be in possession of, or provided with, information relating to
the Obligors which has not or will not be provided to the
other Finance Parties. Each Finance Party agrees that, except
as expressly provided in this Agreement, neither the Agent,
U.S. Swingline Agent nor any Arrangers will be under any
obligation to provide, or under any liability for failure to
provide, any such information to the other Finance Parties.
<PAGE>
20. FEES
20.1 COMMITMENT FEE
(a) Vodafone shall pay to the Agent for distribution to each
Lender pro rata to the proportion its:
(i) Tranche A Commitment bears to the Tranche A Total
Commitments;
(ii) Tranche B Commitment bears to the Tranche B Total
Commitments; and
(iii) Tranche C Commitment bears to the Tranche C Total
Commitments,
from time to time a commitment fee at the rate per annum
specified in sub-clause (e) of Clause 8.6 (Margin and
commitment fee) in relation to the Tranche concerned on
any undrawn, uncancelled amount of the Tranche A Total
Commitments, Tranche B Total Commitments or, as the case
may be, Tranche C Total Commitments on each day.
(b) Commitment fee is calculated and accrues on a daily basis on
and from the Signing Date and is payable in arrear on the
earlier of the first Drawdown Date and 1st October, 1999 and
quarterly in arrear thereafter. Accrued commitment fee is also
payable to the Agent for the relevant Lender(s) on the
cancelled amount of its Tranche A Commitment, Tranche B
Commitment or Tranche C Commitment, as the case may be, at the
time the cancellation takes effect (but only in respect of the
period up to the date of cancellation).
20.2 UTILISATION FEE
(a) Vodafone will pay to the Agent for distribution to each Lender
pro rata to the proportion its:
(i) outstanding participation in outstanding Tranche A
Advances bears to the aggregate outstanding Tranche A
Advances; and
(ii) outstanding participation in outstanding Tranche C
Advances (including Swingline Advances) bears to the
aggregate outstanding Tranche C Advances (including
Swingline Advances),
in respect of any day that aggregate utilisation under the
relevant Tranche falls within the percentage range set out
below of the aggregate Commitments under that Tranche as at
the Merger Date as follows:
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
UTILISATION OF COMMITMENTS (AS AT THE MERGER DATE) UTILISATION FEE ON THE
UNDER TRANCHE A OR C RELEVANT TRANCHE
(% P.A.)
<S> <C>
33 1/3% or less Nil
More than 33 1/3% but not more than 66 2/3%
0.05
More than 66 2/3% 0.10
</TABLE>
(b) Utilisation fee is calculated and accrues on a daily basis and
is payable in arrear on the same dates as commitment fee under
Clause 20.1 (Commitment fee) is payable. Accrued utilisation
fee is also payable to the Agent for the relevant Lenders on
the Tranche A Term Date (or the Maturity Date of the Term-out
Advances, if the Tranche A Term-out Option is exercised) and
the Final Maturity Date.
20.3 TERM-OUT FEE AND TRANCHE B EXTENSION FEE
If the Borrowers' Agent exercises the Tranche A Term-out
Option and/or elects to extend the Tranche B Term Date under
Clause 6.2(b) (Repayment of Tranche B Advances), then within
three Business Days after the last day of the Tranche A
Availability Period and/or Tranche B Commitment Period (the
"COMMITMENT TERMINATION DATE"), Vodafone will pay to the Agent
for distribution pro rata to the Lenders participating in the
Term-out Advances outstanding at close of business in London
on the Commitment Termination Date and pro rata to the Lenders
participating in any Tranche B Advances outstanding at close
of business in London on the Commitment Termination Date, fees
calculated as follows:
(a) in the case of Term-out Advances, fees of 0.125 per
cent. flat on the principal amount of each Term-out
Advance then outstanding; and
(b) in the case of an extension of the Tranche B
Advances, a fee of 0.125 per cent. flat on the
aggregate principal amount of each Tranche B Advance
then outstanding.
Fees payable under this Clause 20.3 are payable in the
currency of the Advance in relation to which they are
calculated.
20.4 AGENT'S FEE
Vodafone shall pay to the Agent for its own account an agency
fee in the amounts and on the dates agreed in the relevant Fee
Letter.
20.5 FRONT-END FEES
Vodafone shall pay to the Agent for the Arrangers front-end
fees in the amounts and on the dates specified in the relevant
Fee Letter.
20.6 VAT
Any fee referred to in this Clause 20 is exclusive of any
United Kingdom value added tax. If any value added tax is so
chargeable, it shall be paid by Vodafone at the same time as
it pays the relevant fee.
<PAGE>
21. EXPENSES
21.1 INITIAL AND SPECIAL COSTS
Vodafone shall forthwith on demand pay the Agent, the U.S.
Swingline Agent and the Arrangers the amount of all
out-of-pocket costs and expenses (including but not limited to
legal fees up to an amount agreed, in the case of (a) and
(b)(i) below, with the Arrangers) reasonably incurred by any
of them in connection with:
(a) preparation and distribution of information in
connection with sub-underwriting and general
syndication of the Facilities and bank presentations
after the Signing Date (excluding travel expenses);
(b) the negotiation, preparation, printing and execution
of:
(i) this Agreement and any other documents
referred to in this Agreement; and
(ii) any other Finance Document (other than a
Novation Certificate) executed after the
date of this Agreement;
(c) any amendment, waiver, consent or suspension of
rights (or any proposal for any of the foregoing)
requested by or on behalf of an Obligor and relating
to a Finance Document or a document referred to in
any Finance Document; and
(d) any other agency matter not of an ordinary
administrative nature, arising out of or in
connection with a Finance Document in the amount
agreed between the Agent and Vodafone at the relevant
time.
21.2 ENFORCEMENT COSTS
Vodafone shall within five Business Days' of receiving written
demand pay to each Finance Party the amount of all costs and
expenses (including but not limited to legal fees) incurred
(or in the case of (b) below reasonably incurred) by it:
(a) in connection with the enforcement of any Finance
Document; or
(b) in connection with the preservation of any rights
under any Finance Document; or
(c) in investigating any possible Default where Vodafone
or any Finance Party has reasonable grounds to
believe that a Default has occurred.
22. STAMP DUTIES
Vodafone shall pay and within five Business Days of receiving
written demand indemnify each Finance Party against any
liability it incurs in respect of any stamp, registration or
similar tax which is or becomes payable in any jurisdiction in
or through which any payment under the Finance Documents is
made or any Obligor is incorporated or has any assets in
connection with the entry into, performance or enforcement of
any Finance Document.
<PAGE>
23. INDEMNITIES
23.1 CURRENCY INDEMNITY
(a) If a Finance Party receives an amount in respect of an
Obligor's liability under the Finance Documents or if that
liability is converted into a claim, proof, judgment or order
in a currency other than the currency (the "CONTRACTUAL
CURRENCY") in which the amount is expressed to be payable
under the relevant Finance Document:
(i) that Obligor shall indemnify that Finance Party as an
independent obligation against any loss or liability
arising out of or as a result of the conversion;
(ii) if the amount received by that Finance Party, when
converted into the contractual currency at a market
rate in the usual course of its business, is less
than the amount owed in the contractual currency, the
Obligor concerned shall forthwith on demand pay to
that Finance Party an amount in the contractual
currency equal to the deficit (provided that if the
amount received by the Finance Party following such
conversion is greater than the amount owed, the
Finance Party shall pay to such Obligor an amount
equal to the excess); and
(iii) the Obligor shall pay to the Finance Party concerned
on demand any exchange costs and taxes payable in
connection with any such conversion.
(b) Each Obligor waives any right it may have in any jurisdiction
to pay any amount under the Finance Documents in a currency
other than that in which it is expressed to be payable.
23.2 OTHER INDEMNITIES
Vodafone shall forthwith on demand indemnify each Finance
Party against any loss or liability which that Finance Party
incurs as a consequence of:
(a) the occurrence of any Default;
(b) amendments to this Agreement to reflect a change in
currency of a country pursuant to Clause 9.4(d)
(Currency);
(c) the operation of Clause 18.15 (Acceleration);
(d) any payment of principal or an overdue amount being
received from any source otherwise than, in the case
of Tranche A Advances (except Term-out Advances),
Tranche C Advances or Swingline Advances, on its
Maturity Date (and, for the purposes of this
paragraph (d), the Maturity Date of an overdue amount
is the last day of each Designated Term (as defined
in Clause 8.4 (Default interest))) and, in the case
of Tranche B Advances and Term-out Advances, on
applicable Interest Dates; or
(e) a Default or an action or omission by an Obligor
resulting in an Advance not being disbursed after a
Borrower has delivered a Request for that Advance.
Vodafone's liability in each case includes any loss or expense
and, in respect of an amount received as a result of voluntary
prepayment made under Clause 7.4 (Voluntary prepayment) only,
loss of Margin in respect or on account of funds borrowed,
contracted for or utilised to
<PAGE>
fund any amount payable under any Finance Document, any amount
repaid or prepaid or any Advance.
23.3 MERGER INDEMNITY
Vodafone and AirTouch shall indemnify each Finance Party, each
of their respective affiliates and each director, officer,
employee or agent of a Finance Party or of any affiliate of
any Finance Party (each an "INDEMNIFIED PARTY") from time to
time on demand from and against any and all losses,
liabilities, claims, costs or expenses (including reasonable
legal fees) which the relevant Indemnified Party may suffer or
incur (except to the extent that the same result from the
negligence or wilful misconduct of any Indemnified Party) by
virtue of the relevant Finance Party acting in its capacity as
a Finance Party and arising out of or by reason of any
investigation, litigation or proceeding arising out of or in
connection with the merger of Vodafone and AirTouch (whether
or not made).
If any action, proceeding, claim or demand shall be brought or
asserted against any Indemnified Party in respect of which
indemnification may be sought from Vodafone or AirTouch as
provided in the preceding paragraph, the relevant Finance
Party shall:
(i) notify Vodafone and AirTouch in writing as soon as
practicable after it becomes aware of such fact;
(ii) conduct the defence of that action, proceeding, claim
or demand properly and diligently, taking into
account its own interests and those of Vodafone and
AirTouch;
(iii) consult in good faith with Vodafone and AirTouch
(from time to time and before taking any material
decision) about the conduct of that action,
proceeding, claim or demand; and
(iv) notify Vodafone and AirTouch of, and diligently
pursue, any settlement approach or opportunity to
settle that action, proceeding, claim or demand.
No Finance Party or Indemnified Party shall settle any such
action, proceeding, claim or demand without the prior written
consent of Vodafone and AirTouch (such consent not to be
unreasonably withheld, taking into account without limitation
the cost to Vodafone and AirTouch of continuing, the likely
outcome of that action, proceeding, claim or demand, and the
adverse effects (actual or potential) on the business
interests and/or reputation of that Finance Party or
Indemnified Party of not settling). Vodafone and AirTouch
shall not be liable to indemnify any Finance Party or any
other Indemnified Person for any settlement of any such
action, claim, proceeding or demand made or effected without
the authority and prior written consent of Vodafone and
AirTouch (such consent not to be unreasonably withheld, as
mentioned above).
If any offer is made to settle any such action, proceeding,
claim, or demand, the relevant Finance Party or Indemnified
Party may only refuse to accept that offer with the consent of
Vodafone and AirTouch (such consent not to be unreasonably
withheld, taking into account without limitation the cost to
Vodafone and AirTouch of continuing, the likely outcome of the
action, proceeding, claim or demand, and the adverse effects
(actual or potential) on the business interests and/or
reputation of that Finance Party or Indemnified Party of
settling). If any Finance Party or Indemnified Party refuses
any such settlement offer without the consent of Vodafone and
AirTouch (such consent not having been unreasonably withheld
as mentioned above), then Vodafone and AirTouch will not be
liable under this Clause 23.3 for
<PAGE>
any amount greater than the amount they would have been liable
for had that offer been accepted.
23.4 BREAKAGE COSTS
If a Finance Party receives or recovers any payment of
principal of an Advance or of an overdue amount other than on
its Maturity Date or, as the case may be, the last day of the
Interest Period for that Advance or Designated Term for the
purposes of calculation of the amount payable by Vodafone
under sub-clause (d) of Clause 23.2 (Other indemnities) in
respect of the amount so received or recovered, that Finance
Party shall calculate:
(a) the additional interest (excluding the Margin, except
in respect of an amount received as a result of
voluntary prepayment made under Clause 7.4 (Voluntary
prepayment)) which would have been payable on the
principal so received or recovered had it been
received or recovered on the relevant Maturity Date
or, as the case may be, the last day of the relevant
Interest Period or Designated Term; and
(b) the amount of interest which would have been payable
to that Finance Party on the relevant Maturity Date
or, as the case may be, the last day of the Interest
Period or Designated Term concerned in respect of a
deposit by that Finance Party in the currency of the
amount received or recovered placed with a prime bank
in London earning interest from (and including) the
earliest Business Day for placing deposits in such
currency following receipt of that amount up to (but
excluding) the relevant Maturity Date or, as the case
may be, the last day of the applicable Interest
Period or Designated Term,
and if the amount payable under paragraph (a) above is greater
than the amount payable under paragraph (b), Vodafone will,
forthwith on receipt of a demand from the relevant Finance
Party pursuant to sub-clause (d) of Clause 23.2 (Other
indemnities), pay to that Finance Party an amount equal to the
difference between the amount payable under (a) and (b) above.
24. EVIDENCE AND CALCULATIONS
24.1 ACCOUNTS
Accounts maintained by a Finance Party in connection with this
Agreement are prima facie evidence of the matters to which
they relate (except in a case of manifest error).
24.2 CERTIFICATES AND DETERMINATIONS
Any certification or determination by a Finance Party of a
rate or amount under this Agreement is, in the absence of
manifest error, prima facie evidence of the matters to which
it relates.
24.3 CALCULATIONS
Interest and the fee payable under Clause 20.1 (Commitment
fee) accrue from day to day and are calculated on the basis of
the actual number of days elapsed and a year of 360 days, or,
in the case of interest at the Swingline Rate or any interest
payable on an amount denominated in Sterling, 365 days.
<PAGE>
25. AMENDMENTS AND WAIVERS
25.1 PROCEDURE
(a) Subject to Clause 25.2 (Exceptions), any term of the Finance
Documents may be amended or waived with the agreement of the
Borrowers' Agent and the Majority Lenders. The Agent may
effect, on behalf of the Lenders, an amendment to which the
Majority Lenders have agreed.
(b) The Agent shall promptly notify the other Parties of any
amendment or waiver effected under paragraph (a) above, and
any such amendment or waiver shall be binding on all the
Parties.
25.2 EXCEPTIONS
An amendment or waiver which relates to:
(a) the definition of "Majority Lenders" in Clause 1.1
(Definitions); or
(b) an extension of the date for, or a decrease in an
amount or a change in the currency of, any payment
under the Finance Documents; or
(c) an increase in a Lender's Commitment; or
(d) a change in the guarantee under Clause 14 (Guarantee)
otherwise than in accordance with Clause 26.4
(Additional Guarantors) or Clause 14.9 (Removal of
Guarantors); or
(e) the incorporation of additional borrowers under the
Facilities; or
(f) a term of a Finance Document which expressly requires
the consent of each Lender; or
(g) Clause 29 (Pro Rata Sharing) or this Clause 25; or
(h) any Interest Period or Term exceeding six months,
may not be effected without the consent of each Lender. Any
amendment or waiver which changes, or relates to the rights
and/or obligations of the Agent or U.S. Swingline Agent shall
also require its agreement.
25.3 WAIVERS AND REMEDIES CUMULATIVE
The rights of each Party under the Finance Documents:
(i) may be exercised as often as necessary;
(ii) are cumulative and not exclusive of its rights under
the general law; and
(iii) may be waived only in writing and specifically.
Delay in exercising or non-exercise of any such right is not a
waiver of that right.
<PAGE>
26. CHANGES TO THE PARTIES
26.1 TRANSFERS BY OBLIGORS
Subject to Clause 26.5 (Novation of AirTouch's obligations),
no Obligor may assign, transfer, novate or dispose of any of,
or any interest in, its rights and/or obligations under this
Agreement.
26.2 TRANSFERS BY LENDERS
(a) A Lender (the "EXISTING LENDER") may at any time assign,
transfer or novate any of its rights and/or obligations under
this Agreement to another person (the "NEW LENDER") provided
that:
(i) in the case of a partial assignment, transfer or
novation of rights and/or obligations, a minimum
amount of U.S.$10,000,000 in aggregate and in a
minimum of U.S.$1,000,000 per Tranche (unless to an
Affiliate or to a Lender or the Agent agrees
otherwise) must be assigned, transferred or novated;
(ii) in the case of an assignment, transfer or novation by
a Swingline Lender, a portion of that Swingline
Lender's Swingline Commitment must also be assigned,
transferred or novated to the extent necessary (if at
all) to ensure that the Swingline Lender's Swingline
Commitment does not exceed its Tranche C Commitment
after the assignment, transfer or novation.
(b) A transfer of obligations will be effective only if either:
(i) the obligations are novated in accordance with Clause
26.3 (Procedure for novations); or
(ii) the New Lender gives prior written notice to the
Borrowers' Agent and confirms to the Agent and the
Borrowers' Agent that it undertakes to be bound by
the terms of this Agreement as a Lender in form and
substance satisfactory to the Agent. On the transfer
becoming effective in this manner the Existing Lender
shall be relieved of its obligations under this
Agreement to the extent that they are transferred to
the New Lender.
(c) No assignment, transfer or novation requires the consent of
any Obligor but (except in relation to an assignment, transfer
or novation to an Affiliate) the Existing Lender must notify
Vodafone within three Business Days of such an assignment,
transfer or novation taking effect of the name of the New
Lender and the date it takes effect.
(d) Nothing in this Agreement restricts the ability of a Lender to
sub-contract an obligation if that Lender remains liable under
this Agreement for that obligation.
(e) On each occasion an Existing Lender assigns, transfers or
novates any of its rights and/or obligations under this
Agreement after the end of the Primary Syndication Period
(other than to an Affiliate), the New Lender shall, on the
date the assignment, transfer and/or novation takes effect,
pay to the Agent for its own account a fee of (pound)1,000.
(f) An Existing Lender is not responsible to a New Lender for:
(i) the execution, genuineness, validity, enforceability
or sufficiency of any Finance Document or any other
document;
<PAGE>
(ii) the collectability of amounts payable under any
Finance Document; or
(iii) the accuracy of any statements (whether written or
oral) made in connection with any Finance Document.
(g) Each New Lender confirms to the Existing Lender and the other
Finance Parties that it:
(i) has made its own independent investigation and
assessment of the financial condition and affairs of
each Obligor and its related entities in connection
with its participation in this Agreement and has not
relied exclusively on any information provided to it
by the Existing Lender in connection with any Finance
Document; and
(ii) will continue to make its own independent appraisal
of the creditworthiness of each Obligor and its
related entities while any amount is or may be
outstanding under this Agreement or any Commitment is
in force.
(h) Nothing in any Finance Document obliges an Existing Lender to:
(i) accept a re-transfer from a New Lender of any of the
rights and/or obligations assigned, transferred or
novated under this Clause 26; or
(ii) support any losses incurred by the New Lender by
reason of the non-performance by any Obligor of its
obligations under this Agreement or otherwise.
(i) Any reference in this Agreement to a Lender includes a New
Lender but excludes a Lender if no amount is or may be owed to
or by it under this Agreement and its Commitment has been
cancelled or reduced to nil.
(j) If any assignment, transfer or novation results either:
(i) at the time of the assignment, transfer or novation;
or
(ii) at any future time where the additional amount was
caused as a result of laws and/or regulations in
force at the date of the assignment, transfer or
novation,
in additional amounts becoming due under Clause 10 (Taxes) or
amounts becoming due under Clause 12 (Increased Costs), the
New Lender shall be entitled to receive such additional
amounts only to the extent that the Existing Lender would have
been so entitled had there been no such assignment, transfer
or novation.
26.3 PROCEDURE FOR NOVATIONS
(a) A novation is effected if:
(i) the Existing Lender and the New Lender deliver to the
Agent a duly completed certificate (a "NOVATION
CERTIFICATE"), substantially in the form of Part I of
Schedule 5, with such amendments as the Agent
approves to achieve a substantially similar effect
(which may be delivered by fax and confirmed by
delivery of a hard copy original but the fax will be
effective irrespective of whether confirmation is
received); and
(ii) the Agent executes it (which the Agent shall promptly
do).
<PAGE>
(b) Each Party (other than the Existing Lender and the New Lender)
irrevocably authorises the Agent to execute any duly completed
Novation Certificate on its behalf.
(c) To the extent that they are expressed to be the subject of the
novation in the Novation Certificate:
(i) the Existing Lender and the other Parties (the
"EXISTING PARTIES") will be released from their
obligations to each other (the "DISCHARGED
OBLIGATIONS");
(ii) the New Lender and the existing Parties will assume
obligations towards each other which differ from the
discharged obligations only insofar as they are owed
to or assumed by the New Lender instead of the
Existing Lender;
(iii) the rights of the Existing Lender against the
existing Parties and vice versa (the "DISCHARGED
RIGHTS") will be cancelled; and
(iv) the New Lender and the existing Parties will acquire
rights against each other which differ from the
discharged rights only insofar as they are
exercisable by or against the New Lender instead of
the Existing Lender,
all on the date of execution of the Novation Certificate by
the Agent or, if later, the date specified in the Novation
Certificate.
(d) If the effective date of a novation is after the date a
Request is received by the Agent but before the date the
requested Advance is disbursed to the relevant Borrower, the
Existing Lender shall be obliged to participate in that
Advance in respect of its discharged obligations
notwithstanding that novation, and the New Lender shall
reimburse the Existing Lender for its participation in that
Advance and all interest and fees thereon up to the date of
reimbursement (in each case to the extent attributable to the
discharged obligations) within three Business Days of the
Drawdown Date of that Advance.
26.4 ADDITIONAL GUARANTORS
(a) (i) Subject to Vodafone's prior written consent, AirTouch
or any wholly owned Subsidiary of Vodafone in the
Restricted Group may become an Additional Guarantor.
(ii) The relevant company will become an Additional
Guarantor upon:
(1) the delivery to the Agent of a Guarantor
Accession Agreement duly executed by that
company; and
(2) in the case of AirTouch, delivery to the
Agent of all those other documents listed in
Part II of Schedule 2, in each case in the
agreed form or in such other form and
substance satisfactory to the Agent; and
(3) in the case of any other company, delivery
to the Agent of all those other documents
listed in Part III of Schedule 2, in each
case in the agreed form or in such other
form and substance satisfactory to the
Agent.
(b) The execution of a Guarantor Accession Agreement constitutes
confirmation by the Additional Guarantor concerned that the
representations and warranties set out in
<PAGE>
Clauses 15.1 to 15.6 (Representations and Warranties) to be
made by it on the date of the Guarantor Accession Agreement
are correct, as if made with reference to the facts and
circumstances then existing.
26.5 NOVATION OF AIRTOUCH'S OBLIGATIONS
(a) AirTouch may be released from its obligations under this
Agreement (as a Borrower but not as a Guarantor, if
applicable) if the obligations of AirTouch as a Borrower in
respect of each Term-out Advance and Tranche B Advance then
outstanding to AirTouch are novated to Vodafone, in accordance
with the following paragraphs of this Clause 26.5.
(b) Such novation shall take effect on the effective date
specified in the Borrower Novation Agreement referred to in
sub-paragraph (iv) below if:
(i) notice of the proposed novation has been delivered by
Vodafone to the Agent not less than 14 days' prior to
the date of the proposed substitution;
(ii) the effective date of the proposed novation is the
last day of the Interest Period or Term for each
Advance then outstanding to AirTouch;
(iii) no Default is outstanding on the effective date of
the proposed novation; and
(iv) Vodafone enters into a novation agreement (a
"BORROWER NOVATION AGREEMENT") with AirTouch and the
Agent on behalf of the Finance Parties in the form of
Part III of Schedule 5, together with such amendments
as the Agent may reasonably require.
(c) Each Finance Party irrevocably authorises the Agent to sign on
its behalf any Borrower Novation Agreement entered into in
accordance with paragraph (b) above.
(d) To the extent that they are expressed to be the subject of a
novation in any Borrower Novation Agreement entered into in
accordance with paragraph (b):
(i) AirTouch and the other Parties (the "EXISTING
PARTIES") will be released from their obligations to
each other (the "DISCHARGED OBLIGATIONS");
(ii) Vodafone and the other existing Parties will assume
obligations towards each other which differ from the
discharged obligations only insofar as they are owed
to or assumed by Vodafone instead of AirTouch;
(iii) the rights of AirTouch against the existing Parties
and vice versa (the "DISCHARGED RIGHTS") will be
cancelled; and
(iv) Vodafone and the other existing Parties will acquire
rights against each other which differ from the
discharged rights only insofar as they are
exercisable by or against Vodafone instead of
AirTouch.
(e) No Advance may be borrowed by AirTouch on or after the
effective date of a Borrower Novation Agreement entered into
pursuant to this Clause 26.5.
<PAGE>
26.6 REFERENCE BANKS
If a Reference Bank (or, if a Reference Bank is not a Lender, the
Lender of which it is an Affiliate) ceases to be a Lender, the Agent
shall (in consultation with the Borrowers' Agent) appoint another
Lender or an Affiliate of a Lender which is not a Reference Bank to
replace that Reference Bank.
26.7 REGISTER
The Agent shall keep a register of all the Parties including in the
case of Lenders the details of their Facility Office notified to the
Agent from time to time, and shall supply any other Party (at that
Party's expense) with a copy of the register on request.
27. DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION
(a) A Lender may disclose to any of its Affiliates or any person with whom
it is proposing to enter, or has entered into, any kind of transfer,
participation or other agreement in relation to this Agreement:
(i) a copy of any Finance Document; and
(ii) any information which that Lender has acquired under or in
connection with any Finance Document,
provided that a Lender shall not disclose any such information to a
person other than one of its Affiliates unless that person has provided
to that Lender a confidentiality undertaking addressed to that Lender,
AirTouch and Vodafone substantially in the form of Schedule 6 or such
other form as the Borrowers' Agent may approve.
(b) Paragraphs 1(a), 1(c), 2(b), 3, 6, 8, 9 and 11 of Schedule 6 (Form of
Confidentiality Undertaking from New Lender) shall be deemed to be
incorporated herein as if set out in full (MUTATIS MUTANDIS), but as if
references therein to "we" were to each Finance Party and references to
"you" were to Vodafone.
28. SET-OFF
28.1 CONTRACTUAL SET-OFF
Whilst an Event of Default subsists, each Obligor authorises each
Finance Party to apply any credit balance to which that Obligor is
entitled on any account of that Obligor with that Finance Party in
satisfaction of any sum due and payable from that Obligor to that
Finance party under the Finance Documents but unpaid; for this purpose,
each Finance Party is authorised to purchase with the moneys standing
to the credit of any such account such other currencies as may be
necessary to effect such application.
28.2 SET-OFF NOT MANDATORY
No Finance Party shall be obliged to exercise any right given to it by
Clause 28.1.
28.3 NOTICE OF SET-OFF
Any Finance Party exercising its rights under Clause 28.1 shall notify
the Borrowers' Agent promptly after set-off is applied.
<PAGE>
29. PRO RATA SHARING
29.1 REDISTRIBUTION
If any amount owing by an Obligor under any Finance Document to a
Finance Party (the "RECOVERING FINANCE PARTY") is discharged by
payment, set-off or any other manner other than through the Agent in
accordance with Clause 9 (Payments) (a "RECOVERY"), then:
(a) the recovering Finance Party shall, within three Business
Days, notify details of the recovery to the Agent;
(b) the Agent shall determine whether the recovery is in excess of
the amount which the recovering Finance Party would have
received had the recovery been received by the Agent and
distributed in accordance with Clause 9 (Payments);
(c) subject to Clause 29.3 (Exception), the recovering Finance
Party shall, within three Business Days of demand by the
Agent, pay to the Agent an amount (the "REDISTRIBUTION") equal
to the excess;
(d) the Agent shall treat the redistribution as if it were a
payment by the Obligor concerned under Clause 9 (Payments) and
shall pay the redistribution to the Finance Parties (other
than the recovering Finance Party) in accordance with Clause
9.7 (Partial payments); and
(e) after payment of the full redistribution, the recovering
Finance Party will be subrogated to the portion of the claims
paid under paragraph (d) above, and that Obligor will owe the
recovering Finance Party a debt which is equal to the
redistribution, immediately payable and of the type originally
discharged.
29.2 REVERSAL OF REDISTRIBUTION
If under Clause 29.1 (Redistribution):
(a) a recovering Finance Party must subsequently return a
recovery, or an amount measured by reference to a recovery, to
an Obligor; and
(b) the recovering Finance Party has paid a redistribution in
relation to that recovery,
each Finance Party shall, within three Business Days of demand by the
recovering Finance Party through the Agent, reimburse the recovering
Finance Party all or the appropriate portion of the redistribution paid
to that Finance Party. Thereupon the subrogation in Clause 29.1(e)
(Redistribution) will operate in reverse to the extent of the
reimbursement.
29.3 EXCEPTIONS
(a) A recovering Finance Party need not pay a redistribution to the extent
that it would not, after the payment, have a valid claim against the
Obligor concerned in the amount of the redistribution pursuant to
Clause 29.1(e) (Redistribution).
(b) A recovering Finance Party is not obliged to share with any other
Finance Party any amount which the recovering Finance Party has
received or recovered as a result of taking legal
<PAGE>
proceedings, if the other Finance Party had an opportunity to
participate in those legal proceedings but did not do so and did not
take separate legal proceedings.
30. SEVERABILITY
If a provision of any Finance Document is or becomes illegal, invalid
or unenforceable in any jurisdiction, that shall not affect:
(a) the legality, validity or enforceability in that jurisdiction
of any other provision of the Finance Documents; or
(b) the legality, validity or enforceability in other
jurisdictions of that or any other provision of the Finance
Documents.
31. COUNTERPARTS
This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts, and this
has the same effect as if the signatures on the counterparts were on a
single copy of this Agreement.
32. NOTICES
32.1 GIVING OF NOTICES
(a) All notices or other communications under or in connection with this
Agreement shall be given in writing or by facsimile. Any such notice
will be deemed to be given as follows:
(i) if in writing, when delivered; and
(ii) if by facsimile, when received.
However, a notice given in accordance with the above but received on a
non-working day or after business hours in the place of receipt will
only be deemed to be given on the next working day in that place.
(b) Any Party may agree with any other Party to give and receive notices by
telex in which case the notice will be deemed given when the correct
answerback is received.
32.2 ADDRESSES FOR NOTICES
(a) The address and facsimile number of each Party (other than the Agent,
the U.S. Swingline Agent and the Borrowers' Agent) for all notices
under or in connection with this Agreement are:
(i) that notified by that Party for this purpose to the Agent on
or before it becomes a Party; or
(ii) any other notified by that Party for this purpose to the Agent
by not less than five Business Days' notice.
<PAGE>
(b) The address and facsimile numbers of the Agent are:
National Westminster Bank Plc
5th Floor, Juno Court
24 Prescot Street
London E1 8BB
Contact: Head of NatWest Agency Group
Telephone: 0171 375 5000
Facsimile: 0171 714 6167
Telex: 922457 NWMAG G
or such other as the Agent may notify to the other Parties by not less
than five Business Days' notice.
(c) The address and facsimile numbers of the U.S. Swingline Agent are:
National Westminster Bank Plc
65 East 55th Street
24th Floor
New York
NY 10022
USA
Contact: Ian Tarachand
Telephone: (212) 401 1419
Facsimile: (212) 401 1494
or such other as the U.S. Swingline Agent may notify to the other
Parties by not less than five Business Days' notice.
(d) The addresses and facsimile numbers of the Borrowers' Agent are:
Vodafone Group Plc
The Courtyard
2-4 London Road
Newbury RG14 1JX
Contact: Group Treasurer
Telephone: 01635 506107
Facsimile: 01635 506746
or such other as the Borrowers' Agent may notify to the other Parties
by not less than five Business Days' notice.
(e) The Agent shall, promptly upon request from any Party, give to that
Party the address or facsimile number of any other Party applicable at
the time for the purposes of this Clause 32.
33. LANGUAGE
(a) Any notice given under or in connection with any Finance Document shall
be in English.
<PAGE>
(b) All other documents provided under or in connection with any Finance
Document shall be:
(i) in English; or
(ii) if not in English, accompanied by a certified English
translation and, in this case, the English translation shall
prevail unless the document is a statutory or other official
document.
34. JURISDICTION
34.1 SUBMISSION
(a) For the benefit of each Finance Party, each Obligor agrees that the
courts of England have jurisdiction to settle any disputes in
connection with any Finance Document and accordingly submits to the
jurisdiction of the English courts.
(b) Without prejudice to paragraph (a) above, each Obligor agrees that any
New York State court or Federal court sitting in New York City has
jurisdiction to settle any disputes in connection with any Finance
Document and accordingly submits to the jurisdiction of those courts.
34.2 SERVICE OF PROCESS
Without prejudice to any other mode of service, each Obligor:
(a) (other than an Obligor incorporated in England and Wales)
irrevocably appoints Vodafone as its agent for service of
process relating to any proceedings before the English courts
in connection with any Finance Document (and Vodafone accepts
this appointment);
(b) (other than an Obligor incorporated in the State of New York)
irrevocably appoints AirTouch as its agent for service of
process in relation to any proceedings before any courts in
the State of New York in connection with any Finance Document
(and AirTouch accepts this appointment);
(c) agrees that failure by a process agent to notify the Obligor
of the process will not invalidate the proceedings concerned;
(d) consents to the service of process relating to any such
proceedings by prepaid posting of a copy of the process to its
address for the time being applying under Clause 32.2
(Addresses for notices); and
(e) agrees that if the appointment of any person mentioned in
paragraph (a) or (b) above ceases to be effective, the
relevant Obligor shall immediately appoint a further person in
England or New York, as appropriate, to accept service of
process on its behalf in England or New York, as appropriate,
and, failing such appointment within 15 days, the Agent is
entitled to appoint such a person by notice to the Borrowers'
Agent.
<PAGE>
34.3 FORUM CONVENIENCE AND ENFORCEMENT ABROAD
Each Obligor:
(a) waives objection to the English and New York courts on grounds
of inconvenient forum or otherwise as regards proceedings in
connection with a Finance Document; and
(b) agrees that a judgment or order of an English and New York
court in connection with a Finance Document is conclusive and
binding on it and may be enforced against it in the courts of
any other jurisdiction.
34.4 NON-EXCLUSIVITY
Nothing in this Clause 34 limits the right of a Finance Party to bring
proceedings against an Obligor in connection with any Finance Document:
(a) in any other court of competent jurisdiction; or
(b) concurrently in more than one jurisdiction.
34.5 WAIVER OF RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY
EACH OF THE PARTIES IRREVOCABLY WAIVES, TO THE FULLEST EXTENT PERMITTED
BY APPLICABLE LAW, ANY RIGHT TO TRIAL BY JURY (WHETHER IN NEW YORK OR
ELSEWHERE) OF ANY CLAIM, DEMAND OR CAUSE OF ACTION RELATING IN ANY WAY
TO THIS AGREEMENT, WHETHER SOUNDING IN CONTRACT OR TORT OR OTHERWISE,
AND AGREES THAT ANY PARTY MAY FILE A COPY OF THIS SECTION WITH ANY
COURT AS EVIDENCE OF THE WAIVER OF ITS JURY TRIAL RIGHTS.
35. GOVERNING LAW
This Agreement is governed by English law.
THIS AGREEMENT has been entered into on the date stated at the beginning of this
Agreement.
<PAGE>
SCHEDULE 1
PART I
LENDERS AND COMMITMENTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Column 1 Column 2 Column 3
Lender Tranche A Tranche B Tranche C
Commitments Commitments Commitments
(U.S.$) (U.S.$) (U.S.$)
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Bank of America NT & 363,636,360 272,727,270 318,181,820
SA
Banque Nationale de 363,636,360 272,727,270 318,181,820
Paris, London branch
Barclays Bank PLC 363,636,360 272,727,270 318,181,820
Citibank, N.A. 363,636,360 272,727,270 318,181,820
Deutsche Bank AG 363,636,360 272,727,270 318,181,820
London
Goldman Sachs Credit 363,636,360 272,727,270 318,181,820
Partners, L.P.
ING Bank N.V., 363,636,360 272,727,270 318,181,820
London branch
Midland Bank plc 363,636,360 272,727,270 318,181,820
National Australia 363,636,360 272,727,270 318,181,820
Bank Limited
National Westminster 363,636,400 272,727,300 318,181,800
Bank Plc
Westdeutsche 363,636,360 272,727,270 318,181,820
Landesbank
Girozentrale
Total U.S.$4,000,000,000 U.S.$3,000,000,000 U.S.$3,500,000,000
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
PART II
SWINGLINE LENDERS AND SWINGLINE COMMITMENTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Swingline Lender Swingline Commitments
U.S.$
<S> <C>
Bank of America NT & SA 83,333,333
Banque Nationale de Paris, New York
branch 83,333,333
Barclays Bank PLC 83,333,334
Citibank, N.A. 83,333,334
Deutsche Bank AG New York branch 83,333,333
Goldman Sachs Credit Partners, L.P. 83,333,333
Midland Bank plc 83,333,333
National Westminster Bank Plc 83,333,334
Westdeutsche Landesbank Girozentrale, New York branch 83,333,333
----------------
TOTAL U.S.$750,000,000
----------------
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
SCHEDULE 2
CONDITIONS PRECEDENT DOCUMENTS
PART I
TO BE DELIVERED BEFORE THE FIRST ADVANCE
1. CONSTITUTIONAL DOCUMENTS
A copy of the memorandum and articles of association and certificate of
incorporation (or equivalent constitutional documents) of Vodafone and
AirTouch.
2. AUTHORISATIONS
(a) A copy of a resolution of the board of directors of Vodafone and of
AirTouch or, if applicable, of a committee of the board of directors
(together with a copy of the resolution of the board of directors
constituting that committee):
(i) approving the terms of, and the transactions contemplated by,
this Agreement and (in the case of Vodafone) the Fee Letters
and resolving that it execute and, where applicable, deliver
this Agreement and (in the case of Vodafone) the Fee Letters;
(ii) authorising a specified person or persons to execute and,
where applicable, deliver this Agreement and (in the case of
Vodafone) the Fee Letters on its behalf; and
(iii) authorising a specified person or persons, on its behalf, to
sign and/or despatch all documents and notices (including
Requests) to be signed and/or despatched by it under or in
connection with the Finance Documents;
(b) a specimen of the signature of each person authorised by the resolution
referred to in paragraph (a) above;
(c) a certificate of a director of Vodafone confirming that as at the first
Drawdown Date, the borrowing of the Total Commitments in full would not
cause any borrowing limit binding on it to be exceeded (whether as a
result of such limit having been waived or otherwise);
(d) a certificate of the Chief Financial Officer or the Treasurer and
Controller of AirTouch confirming that as at the first Drawdown Date
the borrowing of the Total Commitments in full would not cause any
borrowing limit binding on it to be exceeded;
(e) a certificate of an authorised signatory of Vodafone certifying that
each copy document specified in Part I of this Schedule 2 and supplied
by Vodafone is correct, complete and in full force and effect as at a
date no earlier than the Signing Date; and
(f) a certificate of an authorised signatory of AirTouch certifying that
each copy document specified in Part I of this Schedule 2 and supplied
by AirTouch is correct, complete and in full force and effect as at a
date no earlier than the Signing Date.
<PAGE>
3. LEGAL OPINIONS
(a) A legal opinion of Allen & Overy, English law counsel to the Agent, in
relation to English law.
(b) A legal opinion of Allen & Overy, U.S. law counsel to the Agent, in
relation to U.S. law.
(c) A legal opinion of the general-counsel to AirTouch, in relation to U.S.
law.
4. OTHER DOCUMENTS
(a) A copy of the Merger Agreement (in all cases in the form submitted or
referred to by AirTouch and Vodafone to their shareholders) in
connection with the Merger.
(b) A copy of a resolution passed by the shareholders at an extraordinary
general meeting of Vodafone approving the Merger.
(c) A copy of resolutions passed by each class of shareholders at
shareholders' meetings of AirTouch approving the Merger.
(d) A certificate signed by two directors of Vodafone to the effect that:
(i) either (1) the Merger Date has occurred or (2) all conditions
required for closing of the Merger have been satisfied or
waived (other than the filing, with the Secretary of State of
the State of Delaware, of a certificate of merger (and the
taking effect of that certificate on the date specified in
that certificate for the effectiveness of the Merger) and
listing of the new Vodafone shares (including the Vodafone
American Depository Shares) on the relevant stock exchanges)
and, to the best of their knowledge and belief, the Merger
will become effective within five Business Days of the first
Drawdown Date; and
(ii) Closing of the Merger and its becoming effective (taking into
account any conditions imposed by the US Federal
Communications Commission and the California Public Utilities
Commission, any other governmental or other conditions
affecting the Merger after completion and the aggregate cash
receivable by AirTouch shareholders in connection with the
Merger) will not, in the opinion of the executive directors of
Vodafone, materially and adversely impact on the ability of
the enlarged Group to comply with the financial covenants set
out in Clause 17.2 (Financial ratios) until the Final Maturity
Date.
(e) Evidence that:
(i) Vodafone has given notice of prepayment in full of any
outstandings, and notice of cancellation in full of all
commitments, under each of its existing syndicated credit
facilities dated 14th October, 1998 and 12th March, 1998; and
(ii) AirTouch has given notice of prepayment in full of any
outstandings, and notice of cancellation in full of all
commitments, under its existing syndicated credit facility
dated 20th July, 1995,
such prepayment and cancellation, in each case, to take effect no later
than the first Drawdown Date.
<PAGE>
PART II
TO BE DELIVERED BY AIRTOUCH IF IT BECOMES AN ADDITIONAL GUARANTOR
1. A Guarantor Accession Agreement, duly executed (if appropriate, under
seal) by AirTouch.
2. A copy of the memorandum and articles of association and certificate of
incorporation (or other equivalent constitutional documents) of
AirTouch or, if already delivered under Part I of this Schedule 2, a
certificate of a director of AirTouch confirming that there have been
no changes to its constitutional documents or attaching copies of any
such changes.
3. A copy of a resolution of the board of directors of AirTouch:
(a) approving the terms of, and the transactions contemplated by,
the Guarantor Accession Agreement and resolving that it
execute the Guarantor Accession Agreement as a deed;
(b) authorising a specified person or persons to execute the
Guarantor Accession Agreement as a deed; and
(c) authorising a specified person or persons, on its behalf, to
sign and/or despatch all documents to be signed and/or
despatched by it under or in connection with this Agreement.
4. If after the Merger Date, a copy of a resolution, signed by all the
holders of the issued or allotted common stock in AirTouch, approving
the terms of, and the transactions contemplated by, the Guarantor
Accession Agreement.
5. If after the Merger Date, a copy of a resolution of the Board of
Directors of each common stock corporate shareholder in AirTouch:
(a) approving the terms of the resolution referred to in paragraph
4 above; and
(b) authorising a specified person or persons to sign the
resolution on its behalf.
6. If the certificate in paragraph 2(d) of Part I of this Schedule 2 has
not then been given, a certificate of a director of AirTouch certifying
that the borrowing of the Total Commitments in full would not cause any
borrowing limit binding on it to be exceeded.
7. A specimen of the signature of each person authorised by the
resolutions referred to in paragraphs 3 and, if applicable, 5 above.
8. Legal opinions of:
(a) Allen & Overy, English law counsel to the Agent in relation to
English law;
(b) Allen & Overy, U.S. law counsel to the Agent, in relation to
U.S. law; and
(c) the general counsel to AirTouch, in relation to U.S. law.
<PAGE>
9. A certificate of an authorised signatory of AirTouch certifying that
each copy document specified in Part II of this Schedule 2 is correct,
complete and in full force and effect as a date no earlier than the
date of the Guarantor Accession Agreement.
<PAGE>
PART III
TO BE DELIVERED BY AN ADDITIONAL GUARANTOR (OTHER THAN AIRTOUCH)
1. A Guarantor Accession Agreement, duly executed (if appropriate, under
seal) by the Additional Guarantor.
2. A copy of the memorandum and articles of association and certificate of
incorporation (or other equivalent constitutional documents) of the
Additional Guarantor.
3. A copy of a resolution of the board of directors of the Additional
Guarantor:
(a) approving the terms of, and the transactions contemplated by,
the Guarantor Accession Agreement and resolving that it
execute the Guarantor Accession Agreement as a deed;
(b) authorising a specified person or persons to execute the
Guarantor Accession Agreement as a deed; and
(c) authorising a specified person or persons, on its behalf, to
sign and/or despatch all documents to be signed and/or
despatched by it under or in connection with this Agreement.
4. If the lawyers referred to in paragraph 10 below advise it to be
necessary or desirable, a copy of a resolution, signed by all the
holders of the issued or allotted shares in the Additional Guarantor,
approving the terms of, and the transactions contemplated by, the
Guarantor Accession Agreement.
5. A copy of a resolution of the Board of Directors of each corporate
shareholder in the Additional Guarantor:
(a) approving the terms of the resolution referred to in paragraph
4 above; and
(b) authorising a specified person or persons to sign the
resolution on its behalf.
6. A certificate of a director of the Additional Guarantor certifying that
the borrowing of the Total Commitments in full would not cause any
borrowing limit binding on it to be exceeded.
7. A copy of any other authorisation or other document, opinion or
assurance which the Agent considers to be necessary or desirable in
connection with the entry into and performance of, and the transactions
contemplated by, the Guarantor Accession Agreement or for the validity
and enforceability of any Finance Document.
8. A specimen of the signature of each person authorised by the
resolutions referred to in paragraphs 3 and, if applicable, 5 above.
9. A copy of the latest annual statutory audited accounts of the
Additional Guarantor.
10. A legal opinion of Allen & Overy, legal advisers to the Agent, and, if
applicable, other lawyers approved by the Agent in the place of
incorporation of the Additional Guarantor addressed to the Finance
Parties.
<PAGE>
11. A certificate of an authorised signatory of the Additional Guarantor
certifying that each copy document specified in Part III of this
Schedule 2 is correct, complete and in full force and effect as at a
date no earlier than the date of the Guarantor Accession Agreement.
<PAGE>
SCHEDULE 3
CALCULATION OF THE MANDATORY COST
(a) The Mandatory Cost for an Advance (other than a Swingline Advance) is
the rate determined by the Agent to be the rate) calculated in
accordance with the following formulae:
in relation to an Advance denominated in Sterling:
BY + S(Y-Z) + F X 0.01 % per annum = Mandatory Cost
----------------------
100-(B + S)
in relation to any other Advance:
F X 0.01 % per annum = Mandatory Cost
--------
300
where on the day of application of the formula:
B is the percentage of the Agent's eligible liabilities (in
excess of any stated minimum) which the Bank of England
requires the Agent to hold on a non-interest-bearing deposit
account in accordance with its cash ratio requirements;
Y is the LIBOR applicable to that Advance;
S is the percentage of the Agent's eligible liabilities which
the Bank of England requires the Agent to place as a special
deposit;
Z is the interest rate per annum allowed by the Bank of England
on special deposits; and
F is the charge payable by the Agent to the Financial Services
Authority under paragraph 2.02 or 2.03 (as appropriate) of the
Fees Regulations (but where for this purpose, the figure in
paragraph 2.02b and 2.03b will be deemed to be zero) expressed
in pounds per (pound)1 million of the fee base of the Agent.
(b) For the purposes of this Schedule 3:
(i) "ELIGIBLE LIABILITIES" and "SPECIAL DEPOSITS" have the
meanings given to them at the time of application of the
formula by the Bank of England;
(ii) "FEE BASE" has the meaning given to it in the Fees
Regulations; and
(iii) "FEES REGULATIONS" means any regulations governing
the payment of fees for banking supervision.
(c) In the application of the formula, B, Y, S and Z are included in the
formula as figures and not as percentages, e.g. if B = 0.5% and Y =
15%, BY is calculated as 0.5 x 15.
<PAGE>
(d) Each rate calculated in accordance with the formula is, if necessary,
rounded upward to five decimal places.
(e) If the Agent determines that a change in circumstances has rendered, or
will render, the formula inappropriate, the Agent (after consultation
with the Lenders and the Borrowers' Agent) shall notify the Borrowers'
Agent of the manner in which the Mandatory Cost will subsequently be
calculated. The manner of calculation so notified by the Agent shall,
in the absence of manifest error, be binding on all the Parties.
<PAGE>
SCHEDULE 4
FORM OF REQUEST
To: NATIONAL WESTMINSTER BANK Plc as [Agent/U.S. Swingline Agent*]
From: [BORROWER]
Date: [ ]
VODAFONE GROUP PLC - U.S.$10,500,000,000 CREDIT AGREEMENT
DATED 16th April, 1999
1. We wish to utilise Tranche A* and/or*/Tranche B* and/or Tranche C*
and/or the Swingline Facility* by way of Advances*/Swingline Advances*
as follows:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
(a) Drawdown Date: Tranche A: [ ]*
Tranche B: [ ]*
Tranche C: [ ]*
Swingline Facility: [ ]*
(b) Requested Amount (including currency): Tranche A: [ ]*
Tranche B: [ ]*
Tranche C: [ ]*
Swingline Facility: [ ]*
(c) Interest Period/Term*: Tranche A: [ ]*
Tranche B: [ ]*
Tranche C: [ ]*
Swingline Facility: [ ]*
(d) Payment Instructions: Tranche A: [ ]*
Tranche B: [ ]*
Tranche C: [ ]*
Swingline Facility: [ ]*
(e) Maturity Date: Tranche A: [ ]*
(for Term-out Advance
only)*
</TABLE>
2. We confirm that each condition specified in [Clause 4.2 (Conditions to
first drawdown)] [Clause 4.3 (Conditions to further drawdowns and
rollovers)]** is satisfied on the date of this Request and this Advance
would not cause any borrowing limit binding on us to be exceeded.
- ------------------------------------
* Delete as appropriate.
** Delete as applicable depending on whether first Advance or subsequent
Advance.
<PAGE>
[By: By:
[BORROWER] [Vodafone Group Plc
Authorised Signatory] Authorised Signatory]***
- --------------------------------
*** Only required where AirTouch is the Borrower.
<PAGE>
SCHEDULE 5
FORMS OF ACCESSION DOCUMENTS
PART I
NOVATION CERTIFICATE
To: NATIONAL WESTMINSTER BANK Plc as Agent
From: [THE EXISTING LENDER] and [THE NEW LENDER] Date: [ ]
Vodafone Group Plc - U.S.$10,500,000,000 Term and Revolving Credit Agreement
Dated 16th April, 1999
We refer to Clause 26.3 (Procedure for novations).
1. We [ ] (the "EXISTING LENDER") and [ ] (the "NEW LENDER")
agree to the Existing Lender and the New Lender novating all the
Existing Lender's rights and obligations referred to in the Schedule
in accordance with Clause 26.3 (Procedure for novations).
2. The specified date for the purposes of [Clause 26.3(c) (Procedure for
novations)] is [date of novation].
3. The Facility Office and address for notices of the New Lender for the
purposes of Clause 32.2 (Addresses for notices) are set out in the
Schedule.
4. This Novation Certificate is governed by English law.
<PAGE>
THE SCHEDULE
RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS TO BE NOVATED
[DETAILS OF THE RIGHTS AND OBLIGATIONS OF THE EXISTING LENDER TO BE NOVATED.]
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
[NEW LENDER]
[Facility Office Address for notices]
[Existing Lender] [New Lender] [ ]
By: By: By:
Date: Date: Date:
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
PART II
GUARANTOR ACCESSION AGREEMENT
To: NATIONAL WESTMINSTER BANK Plc as Agent
From: [PROPOSED GUARANTOR]
Date: [ ]
Vodafone Group Plc - U.S.$10,500,000,000 Term and Revolving Credit Agreement
Dated 16th April, 1999 (The "Credit Agreement")
We refer to Clause 26.4 (Additional Guarantors).
We, [name of company] of [Registered Office] (Registered no. [ ]) agree to
become an Additional Guarantor and to be bound by the terms of the Credit
Agreement as an Additional Guarantor in accordance with Clause 26.4 (Additional
Guarantors).
Our address for notices for the purposes of Clause 32.2 (Addresses for notices)
is:
[
]
This Deed is governed by English law.
Executed as a deed by ) Director
[PROPOSED GUARANTOR] )
acting by ) Director/Secretary
and )
<PAGE>
PART III
FORM OF BORROWER NOVATION AGREEMENT
THIS NOVATION AGREEMENT is dated [ ] and made BETWEEN:
(1) AIRTOUCH COMMUNICATIONS, INC. (the "EXISTING BORROWER");
(2) VODAFONE GROUP Plc (the "SUBSTITUTE BORROWER");
(3) VODAFONE GROUP Plc on behalf of itself and each Obligor (as defined in
the Credit Agreement referred to below) other than AirTouch (the
"BORROWERS' AGENT"); and
(4) NATIONAL WESTMINSTER BANK Plc as agent (the "AGENT") on behalf of
itself and the Lenders (as defined in the Agreement referred to below),
and is supplemental to the Term and Revolving Credit Agreement dated 16th April,
1999 and made between, among others, the Existing Borrower, the Substitute
Borrower, the Agent and the financial institutions listed in Schedule 1 thereto
(the "CREDIT AGREEMENT").
IT IS AGREED:
1. NOVATION
(a) In consideration of a payment made by the Existing Borrower to the
Substitute Borrower and the release of the Existing Borrower from all
of its obligations and liabilities (actual and contingent) as a
Borrower (but not as a Guarantor if applicable) under the Finance
Documents, the Substitute Borrower hereby undertakes, on and with
effect from [ ], [ ] (the "EFFECTIVE DATE"), to observe and perform all
the obligations and liabilities (actual or contingent) of the Existing
Borrower under the Finance Documents.
(b) On and with effect from the Effective Date, AirTouch will cease to be
entitled to borrow under the Facilities.
2. INTEGRATION
This Novation Agreement shall be read as one with the Credit Agreement
so that any reference therein to "this Agreement", "hereunder" and
similar shall include and be deemed to include this Novation Agreement.
The Agent and the Borrowers' Agent agree that this Novation Agreement
is a Finance Document.
3. CONTINUING LIABILITY
The Borrowers' Agent (on behalf of itself and each other Guarantor (if
any)) acknowledges and confirms that the Guarantors' obligations under
Clause 14 (Guarantee) of the Credit Agreement apply to the obligations
and liabilities assumed by the Substitute Borrower hereunder.
<PAGE>
4. GOVERNING LAW
This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed in accordance with,
the laws of England.
IN WITNESS whereof the parties hereto have caused this Novation
Agreement to be duly executed on the date first written above.
.......................................
For and on behalf of AirTouch Communications, Inc.
.......................................
For and on behalf of
Vodafone Group Plc
.......................................
Vodafone Group Plc
for itself as Borrowers' Agent and on behalf of each
other (if any) Borrower and Guarantor
.......................................
National Westminster Bank Plc
for itself and on behalf of each
Finance Party
<PAGE>
SCHEDULE 6
FORM OF CONFIDENTIALITY UNDERTAKING
FROM NEW LENDER
To: [Existing Lender];
Vodafone Group Plc; and
AirTouch Communications, Inc.
Dear Sirs,
We refer to the U.S.$10,500,000,000 Term and Revolving Credit Agreement dated
16th April, 1999 (the "CREDIT AGREEMENT") between, among others, Vodafone
Group plc and National Westminster Bank Plc (as Agent).
This is a confidentiality undertaking referred to in Clause 27 (Disclosure of
information) of the Credit Agreement. A term defined in the Credit Agreement has
the same meaning in this undertaking.
We are considering entering into contractual relations with [insert name of
Lender] (the "EXISTING LENDER") and understand that it is a condition of our
receiving information about Vodafone Group Plc and its related companies and any
Finance Document and/or any information under or in connection with any Finance
Document (the "INFORMATION") that we execute this undertaking.
1. CONFIDENTIALITY UNDERTAKING
We undertake (a) to keep the Confidential Information confidential and
not to disclose it to anyone except as provided for by paragraph 2
below and to ensure that the Confidential Information is protected with
security measures and a degree of care that would apply to our own
confidential information, (b) to use the Confidential Information only
for the Permitted Purpose, (c) to use all reasonable endeavours to
ensure that any person to whom we pass any Confidential Information
(unless disclosed under paragraph 2(b) below) acknowledges and complies
with the provisions of this letter as if that person were also a party
to it and (d) not to make enquiries of any member of the Group or any
of their officers, directors, employees or professional advisers
relating directly or indirectly to the Facilities, other than directly
to the Group Treasurer of Vodafone.
2. PERMITTED DISCLOSURE
You agree that we may disclose Confidential Information:
(a) to members of the Purchaser Group and their officers,
directors, employees and professional advisers to the extent
necessary for the Permitted Purpose and to any auditors of
members of the Purchaser Group;
(b) where requested or required by any court of competent
jurisdiction or any competent judicial, governmental,
supervisory or regulatory body, (ii) where required by the
rules of any stock exchange on which the shares or other
securities of any member of
<PAGE>
the Purchaser Group are listed or (iii) where required by the
laws or regulations of any country with jurisdiction over the
affairs of any member of the Purchaser Group.
3. NOTIFICATION OF REQUIRED OR UNAUTHORISED DISCLOSURE
We agree (to the extent permitted by law) to inform you of the full
circumstances of any disclosure under paragraph 2(b) or upon becoming
aware that Confidential Information has been disclosed in breach of
this letter.
4. RETURN OF COPIES
If you so request in writing, we shall return all Confidential
Information supplied by you to us and destroy or permanently erase all
copies of Confidential Information made by us and use all reasonable
endeavours to ensure that anyone to whom we have supplied any
Confidential Information destroys or permanently erases such
Confidential Information and any copies made by them, in each case save
to the extent that we or the recipients are required to retain any such
Confidential Information by any applicable law, rule or regulation or
by any competent judicial, governmental, supervisory or regulatory body
or in accordance with internal policy, or where the Confidential
Information has been disclosed under paragraph 2 (b) above.
5. CONTINUING OBLIGATIONS
The obligations in this letter are continuing and, in particular, shall
survive the termination of any discussions or negotiations between you
and us. Notwithstanding the previous sentence, the obligations in this
letter shall cease (a) if we become a party to the Facilities or (b)
twelve months after we have returned all Confidential Information
supplied to us by you and destroyed or permanently erased all copies of
Confidential Information made by us (other than any such Confidential
Information or copies which have been disclosed under paragraph 2 above
(other than sub-paragraph 2(a)) or which, pursuant to paragraph 4
above, are not required to be returned or destroyed).
6. CONSEQUENCES OF BREACH, ETC.
We acknowledge and agree that you or members of the Group (each a
"RELEVANT PERSON") may be irreparably harmed by the breach of the terms
hereof and damages may not be an adequate remedy; each Relevant Person
may be granted an injunction or specific performance for any threatened
or actual breach of the provisions of this letter by any member of the
Purchaser Group.
7. NO WAIVER; AMENDMENTS, ETC.
This letter sets out the full extent of our obligations of
confidentiality owed to you in relation to the information the subject
of this letter. No failure or delay in exercising any right, power or
privilege hereunder will operate as a waiver thereof nor will any
single or partial exercise of any right, power or privilege preclude
any further exercise thereof or the exercise of any other right, power
or privileges hereunder. The terms of this letter and our obligations
hereunder may only be amended or modified by written agreement between
us.
8. INSIDE INFORMATION
We acknowledge that some or all of the Confidential Information is or
may be price-sensitive information and that the use of such information
may be regulated or prohibited by applicable
<PAGE>
legislation relating to insider dealing and we undertake not to use
any Confidential Information for any unlawful purpose.
9. NATURE OF UNDERTAKINGS
The undertakings given by us under this letter are given to you and
(without implying any fiduciary obligations on your part) are also
given for the benefit of each other member of the Group.
10. GOVERNING LAW AND JURISDICTION
This shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of
England and the parties submit to the non-exclusive jurisdiction of the
English courts.
11. DEFINITIONS
In this letter:
"CONFIDENTIAL INFORMATION" means any information relating to Vodafone,
AirTouch, the AirTouch Group, the Group and/or the Facilities provided
to us by you or any of your Affiliates or advisers, in whatever form,
and includes information given orally and any document, electronic file
or any other way of representing or recording information which
contains or is derived or copied from such information but excludes
information that (a) is or becomes public knowledge other than as a
direct or indirect result of any breach of this letter or (b) is known
by us before the date the information is disclosed to us by you or any
of your affiliates or advisers or is lawfully obtained by us
thereafter, other than from a source which is connected with the Group
and which, in either case, as far as we are aware, has not been
obtained in violation of, and is not otherwise subject to, any
obligation of confidentiality;
"PERMITTED PURPOSE" means considering and evaluating whether to
enter into the Facilities; and
"PURCHASER GROUP" means us, each of our holding companies and
subsidiaries and each subsidiary of each of our holding companies (as
each such term is defined in the Companies Act 1985).
Yours faithfully
....................
For and on behalf of
[New Lender]
<PAGE>
SIGNATORIES
BORROWERS
VODAFONE GROUP Plc
By: KEN HYDON
AIRTOUCH COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
By: JAMES WALL
ARRANGERS
BANK OF AMERICA
INTERNATIONAL LIMITED
By: JOHN N. GREGG, Jr.
BANQUE NATIONALE DE PARIS
By: J. VAN KAN
BARCLAYS CAPITAL
By: PETER FLEMING
CITIBANK, N.A.
By: GRAHAM THROWER
DEUTSCHE BANK AG LONDON
By: R.P. MUNN D. BUGGE
GOLDMAN SACHS INTERNATIONAL
By: WILLIAM MARTIN
<PAGE>
GREENWICH NATWEST LIMITED
By: DECLAN McGRATH
HSBC INVESTMENT BANK plc
By: A. RHODES
ING BANK N.V., London branch
By: C.J. STEANE L.S. CORNELISSEN
NATIONAL AUSTRALIA BANK LIMITED
By: N.A. VOISEY T.W. HUNERSEN
WESTDEUTSCHE LANDESBANK GIROZENTRALE
By: RHODERICK HENDERSON STUART FROHMAIER
LENDERS
BANK OF AMERICA NT & SA
As Lender and Swingline Lender
By: DAVID J. RIORDAN
BANQUE NATIONALE DE PARIS, London branch
As Lender
By: LIONEL BORDARIER MICHAEL E. MOLLOY
BANQUE NATIONALE DE PARIS, New York branch
As Swingline Lender
By: LIONEL BORDARIER MICHAEL E. MOLLOY
<PAGE>
BARCLAYS BANK PLC
As Lender and Swingline Lender
By: PETER FLEMING
CITIBANK, N.A.
As Lender and Swingline Lender
By: GRAHAM THROWER
DEUTSCHE BANK AG LONDON
As Lender
By: R.P. MUNN D. BUGGE
DEUTSCHE BANK AG, New York branch
As Swingline Lender
By: R.P. MUNN D. BUGGE
GOLDMAN SACHS CREDIT PARTNERS, L.P.
As Lender and Swingline Lender
By: WILLIAM MARTIN
ING BANK N.V., London branch
As Lender
By: C.J. STEANE L.S. CORNELISSEN
MIDLAND BANK plc
As Lender and Swingline Lender
By: A.O. THOMAS
NATIONAL AUSTRALIA BANK LIMITED
As Lender
By: T.W. HUNERSEN N.A. VOISEY
<PAGE>
NATIONAL WESTMINSTER BANK Plc
As Lender and Swingline Lender
By: THOMAS A. TICHLER
WESTDEUTSCHE LANDESBANK GIROZENTRALE
As Lender
By: RHODERICK HENDERSON STUART FROHMAIER
WESTDEUSCHE LANDESBANK GIROZENTRALE, New York branch
As Swingline Lender
By: RHODERICK HENDERSON STUART FROHMAIER
AGENT
NATIONAL WESTMINSTER BANK Plc
By: GARY P. SMITH
U.S. SWINGLINE AGENT
NATIONAL WESTMINSTER BANK Plc
By: GARY P. SMITH
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 21
PRINCIPAL SUBSIDIARY UNDERTAKINGS, ASSOCIATED
UNDERTAKINGS AND INVESTMENTS
1. PRINCIPAL SUBSIDIARY UNDERTAKINGS
The following table shows Vodafone's principal subsidiary undertakings,
being those which are considered by Vodafone to be likely to have a significant
effect on the assessment of the assets, liabilities, financial position and/or
profits and losses of Vodafone.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COUNTRY OF
INCORPORATION
OR PERCENTAGE
NAME REGISTRATION ACTIVITY SHAREHOLDING
- ------------------------------------------------------ -------------- --------------------------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Vodafone UK Limited England Holding company 100
Vodafone Limited England Cellular network operator 100
Vodafone Distribution Limited England Holding company 100
Vodafone Central Services Limited England Provision of customer
services 100
Vodafone Corporate Limited England Service provider 100
Vodafone M.C. Mobile Services Limited England Service provider 100
Vodafone Connect Limited England Service provider 100
Vodafone (NI) Limited Northern
Ireland Service provider 100
Vodafone Retail (Holdings) Limited England Holding company 100
Vodafone Retail Limited England Holding company 100
Peoples Phone Limited England Service provider 100
Astec Communications Limited England Service provider 100
Vodafone Finance Limited England Financial trading company 100
Vodafone Group Services Limited England Provision of central
services 100
Vodafone Paging Limited England Radiopaging network
operator 100
Vodafone Satellite Services Limited England Globalstar satellite
consortium 100
Vodafone Value Added and Data Services Limited England Supply of value added
services and packet radio
network operator 100
Vodafone Europe Holdings B.V. Netherlands Holding company 100
Libertel Groep B.V. Netherlands Holding company 70
Libertel B.V. Netherlands Cellular network operator 70
Libertel Verkoop en Services B.V. Netherlands Service provider 70
Vodafone Malta Limited Malta Cellular network operator 80
Vodafone Gibraltar Limited Gibraltar Investment company 100
Vodafone Australasia Pty Limited Australia Holding company 100
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COUNTRY OF
INCORPORATION
OR PERCENTAGE
NAME REGISTRATION ACTIVITY SHAREHOLDING
- ------------------------------------------------------ -------------- --------------------------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Vodafone Holdings Australia Pty Limited Australia Cellular network operator 91
Vodafone Pty Limited Australia Service provider 91
Talkland Retail Australia Limited England(*) Service provider and
retailer 91
Vodac Pty Limited Australia Service provider 100
Vodacall Pty Limited Australia Service provider 100
Panafon SA Greece Cellular network operator 55
Panavox SA Greece Service provider 55
Vodafone New Zealand Limited New Zealand Cellular network operator 100
Vodafone Mobile NZ Limited New Zealand Licence Holder 100
</TABLE>
- ------------------------
(*) Incorporated in England, principal place of business in Australia.
2. PRINCIPAL ASSOCIATED UNDERTAKINGS
Vodafone Group's principal associated undertakings all have share capital
consisting solely of ordinary shares unless otherwise stated. The country of
incorporation or registration of all associated undertakings is also their
principal place of operation.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COUNTRY OF
INCORPORATION
OR PERCENTAGE
NAME REGISTRATION ACTIVITY SHAREHOLDING(*)
- ---------------------------------------------------- -------------- -------------------------- -------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Celtel Limited Uganda Cellular network operator 37
Comfone AG Switzerland Roaming services provider 50
Europolitan Holdings AB Sweden Holding company for
cellular network 20
Martin Dawes Telecommunications Limited England Service provider 20
Mobile Telecom Group Limited England Holding Company for
service provider 20
Societe Francaise du Radiotelephone S.A. France Cellular network operator 20
Page U.K. Limited Scotland Paging service provider 50
Misrfone Telecommunications Company SAE Egypt Cellular network operator 30
Vodafone Fiji Limited Fiji Cellular network operator 49
Vodacom Group (Pty) Limited South Africa Holding company 32
Vodacom (Pty) Limited South Africa Cellular network operator 32
</TABLE>
2
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COUNTRY OF
INCORPORATION
OR PERCENTAGE
NAME REGISTRATION ACTIVITY SHAREHOLDING(*)
- ---------------------------------------------------- -------------- -------------------------- -------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Vodac (Pty) Limited South Africa Service provider 32
Vodacom Equipment Company (Pty) Limited South Africa Supply of cellular radio
telephone equipment 32
</TABLE>
- ------------------------
(*) To nearest whole percentage.
3. PRINCIPAL INVESTMENTS
The shareholdings in investments consist solely of ordinary shares unless
otherwise stated. The principal country of operation for the investments is the
same as the country of incorporation or registration.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
COUNTRY OF
INCORPORATION
OR PERCENTAGE
NAME REGISTRATION ACTIVITY SHAREHOLDING(A)
- ---------------------------------------------------- -------------- -------------------------- -------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
E-Plus Mobilfunk GmbH Germany Cellular network operator 17
Globalstar L.P.(b) USA Development of satellite
telecommunications service 3
</TABLE>
- ------------------------
(a) To nearest whole percentage.
(b) Partnership interest.
3
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 23(a)
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
<PAGE>
DELOITTE & TOUCHE
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
We hereby give our consent to the incorporation by reference in the Proxy
Statement/Prospectus constituting part of this Registration Statement on Form
F-4 of Vodafone of our report dated June 2, 1998 with respect to the
consolidated financial statements of Vodafone as of March 31, 1998 and 1997, and
for each of the three years in the period ended March 31, 1998, which report is
included in Vodafone's Annual Report on Form 20-F for the year ended March 31,
1998. We also consent to the reference to us under the heading "Experts" in such
Proxy Statement/Prospectus.
/s/ Deloitte & Touche
London, England
April 21, 1999
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 23(b)
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in the Prospectus
constituting part of this Registration Statement on Form F-4 of Vodafone Group
Public Limited Company of our report dated March 1, 1999 relating to the
consolidated financial statements of AirTouch Communications, Inc. ("AirTouch"),
which appears on page 35 of the AirTouch 1998 Annual Report to Stockholders,
which is incorporated by reference in the AirTouch Annual Report on Form 10-K
for the year ended December 31, 1998. We also consent to the incorporation by
reference of our report dated February 23, 1998 relating to the consolidated
financial statements of CMT Partners, which appears on page S-3 of the AirTouch
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1997. We also consent
to the incorporation by reference of our report on the Financial Statement
Schedule of AirTouch which appears on page X-1 of the AirTouch Annual Report on
Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1998 and our report on the Financial
Statement Schedule of CMT Partners which appears on page S-12 of the AirTouch
Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1997. We also consent
to the references to us under the heading "Experts" in such Prospectus.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
San Francisco, California
April 22, 1999
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 23(c)
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS
As independent public accountants, we hereby consent to the incorporation by
reference in this registration statement of our report dated February 12, 1998,
as it relates to U S WEST NewVector Group, Inc. and Subsidiaries (the Company),
included in AirTouch Communications, Inc.'s Current Report on Form 8-K/A filed
April 23, 1998, and to all references to our Firm included in this registration
statement. It should be noted that we have not audited any financial statements
of the Company subsequent to December 31, 1997, or performed any audit
procedures subsequent to the date of our report.
/s/ Arthur Andersen LLP
Denver, Colorado
April 20, 1999
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 23(d)
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Proxy
Statement/Prospectus constituting part of this Registration Statement on Form
F-4 of the Vodafone Group Plc of our report dated February 16, 1999, with
respect to the financial statements of Mannesmann Mobilfunk GmbH, as of December
31, 1998 and 1997 and for each of the years in the three-year period ended
December 31, 1998, which report is included in or incorporated by reference in
AirTouch's Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 1998. We
also consent to the reference to us under the heading "Experts" in such Proxy
Statement/Prospectus.
Dusseldorf, Germany, April 21, 1999
KPMG Deutsche Treuhand-Gesellschaft
Aktiengesellchaft
Wirtschaftsprufungsgesellschaft
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
/s/ Scheffler /s/ Haas
Wirtschaftsprufer Wirtschaftsprufer
Scheffler Haas
Wirtschaftsprufer Wirtschaftsprufer
</TABLE>
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 23(e)
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
We consent to the incorporation by reference in this Proxy Statement
Prospectus constituting part of this Registration Statement on Form F-4 of the
Vodafone Group Plc of our report dated January 24, 1997, with respect to the
financial statements of Kansas Combined Cellular as of December 31, 1996 and for
each of the two years in the period ended December 31, 1996, which report is
included in or incorporated by reference in AirTouch's Annual Report on Form
10-K for the year ended December 31, 1998. We also consent to the reference to
us under the heading "Experts" in such Proxy Statement/Prospectus.
/s/ Arthur Andersen LLP
Kansas City, Missouri
April 21, 1999
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 23(i)
CONSENT OF MORGAN STANLEY & CO. INCORPORATED
We hereby consent to the inclusion of our opinion letter, dated January 15,
1999, to the Board of Directors of AirTouch Communications, Inc. ("AirTouch") as
Appendix B to this Proxy Statement/Prospectus constituting part of this
Registration Statement on Form F-4 of the Vodafone Group Plc (the "Registration
Statement") and references made to such opinion under the captions
"Summary--Opinion of Financial Advisor," "The Merger--Background of the Merger,"
"The Merger--Recommendations of the AirTouch Board; Additional Considerations of
the AirTouch Board" and "The Merger--Opinions of Financial Advisors--Opinion of
AirTouch's Financial Advisor" in the Registration Statement. In giving such
consent, we do not admit that we come within the category of persons whose
consent is required under, nor do we admit that we are "experts" for purposes
of, the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the rules and regulations
promulgated thereunder.
/s/ Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated
Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated
New York, New York
April 21, 1999
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 23(j)
CONSENT OF GOLDMAN SACHS INTERNATIONAL
We hereby consent to the inclusion of our opinion letter dated January 15, 1999,
to the Board of Directors of Vodafone Group Plc ("Vodafone") as Appendix C to
this Proxy Statement/Prospectus constituting part of this Registration Statement
on Form F-4 of Vodafone (the "Registration Statement") and references made to
such opinion under the captions "The Merger--Background of the Merger," "The
Merger--Additional Considerations of the Vodafone Board" and "The Merger--
Opinions of Financial Advisors--Opinion of Vodafone's Financial Advisor" in the
Registration Statement. In giving such consent, we do not admit that we come
within the category of persons whose consent is required under, nor do we admit
that we are "experts" for purposes of, the Securities Act of 1933, as amended,
and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.
Our opinion letter was provided for the information and assistance of the Board
of Directors of Vodafone in connection with its consideration of the transaction
contemplated in the Agreement and Plan of Merger between Vodafone, AirTouch
Communications, Inc. and Apollo Merger Sub, a wholly owned subsidiary of
Vodafone, dated as of January 15, 1999, and is not to be used, circulated,
quoted or otherwise referred to for any other purpose, nor is it to be filed
with, included in or referred to in whole or in part in any other registration
statement, proxy statement or any other document, except in accordance with our
prior written consent.
GOLDMAN SACHS INTERNATIONAL
/s/ Richard A. Sapp
- -----------------------------------
Managing Director
London, England
April 21, 1999
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 23(k)
CONSENT OF SAM GINN
I hereby consent to being nominated as a director of Vodafone AirTouch
Public Limited Company ("Vodafone AirTouch") pursuant to the Agreement and Plan
of Merger, dated as of January 15, 1999, among Vodafone Group Public Limited
Company ("Vodafone"), AirTouch Communications, Inc. ("AirTouch") and Apollo
Merger Sub, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Vodafone ("Apollo Merger Sub"),
providing for the merger (the "Merger") of Apollo Merger Sub with and into
AirTouch, and to being named as about to become a director of Vodafone AirTouch
in the Registration Statement on Form F-4 of Vodafone to be filed in connection
with the Merger.
April 21, 1999
/s/ SAM GINN
-----------------------------------------
Sam Ginn
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 23(l)
CONSENT OF ARUN SARIN
I hereby consent to being nominated as a director of Vodafone AirTouch
Public Limited Company ("Vodafone AirTouch") pursuant to the Agreement and Plan
of Merger, dated as of January 15, 1999, among Vodafone Group Public Limited
Company ("Vodafone"), AirTouch Communications, Inc. ("AirTouch") and Apollo
Merger Sub, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Vodafone ("Apollo Merger Sub"),
providing for the merger (the "Merger") of Apollo Merger Sub with and into
AirTouch, and to being named as about to become a director of Vodafone AirTouch
in the Registration Statement on Form F-4 of Vodafone to be filed in connection
with the Merger.
April 21, 1999
/s/ ARUN SARIN
-----------------------------------------
Arun Sarin
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 23(m)
CONSENT OF MOHANBIR S. GYANI
I hereby consent to being nominated as a director of Vodafone AirTouch
Public Limited Company ("Vodafone AirTouch") pursuant to the Agreement and Plan
of Merger, dated as of January 15, 1999, among Vodafone Group Public Limited
Company ("Vodafone"), AirTouch Communications, Inc. ("AirTouch") and Apollo
Merger Sub, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Vodafone ("Apollo Merger Sub"),
providing for the merger (the "Merger") of Apollo Merger Sub with and into
AirTouch, and to being named as about to become a director of Vodafone AirTouch
in the Registration Statement on Form F-4 of Vodafone to be filed in connection
with the Merger.
April 21, 1999
/s/ MOHANBIR S. GYANI
-----------------------------------------
Mohanbir S. Gyani
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 23(n)
CONSENT OF MICHAEL J. BOSKIN
I hereby consent to being nominated as a director of Vodafone AirTouch
Public Limited Company ("Vodafone AirTouch") pursuant to the Agreement and Plan
of Merger, dated as of January 15, 1999, among Vodafone Group Public Limited
Company ("Vodafone"), AirTouch Communications, Inc. ("AirTouch") and Apollo
Merger Sub, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Vodafone ("Apollo Merger Sub"),
providing for the merger (the "Merger") of Apollo Merger Sub with and into
AirTouch, and to being named as about to become a director of Vodafone AirTouch
in the Registration Statement on Form F-4 of Vodafone to be filed in connection
with the Merger.
April 21, 1999
/s/ MICHAEL J. BOSKIN
-----------------------------------------
Michael J. Boskin
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 23(o)
CONSENT OF DONALD G. FISHER
I hereby consent to being nominated as a director of Vodafone AirTouch
Public Limited Company ("Vodafone AirTouch") pursuant to the Agreement and Plan
of Merger, dated as of January 15, 1999, among Vodafone Group Public Limited
Company ("Vodafone"), AirTouch Communications, Inc. ("AirTouch") and Apollo
Merger Sub, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Vodafone ("Apollo Merger Sub"),
providing for the merger (the "Merger") of Apollo Merger Sub with and into
AirTouch, and to being named as about to become a director of Vodafone AirTouch
in the Registration Statement on Form F-4 of Vodafone to be filed in connection
with the Merger.
April 21, 1999
/s/ DONALD G. FISHER
-----------------------------------------
Donald G. Fisher
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 23(p)
CONSENT OF PAUL HAZEN
I hereby consent to being nominated as a director of Vodafone AirTouch
Public Limited Company ("Vodafone AirTouch") pursuant to the Agreement and Plan
of Merger, dated as of January 15, 1999, among Vodafone Group Public Limited
Company ("Vodafone"), AirTouch Communications, Inc. ("AirTouch") and Apollo
Merger Sub, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Vodafone ("Apollo Merger Sub"),
providing for the merger (the "Merger") of Apollo Merger Sub with and into
AirTouch, and to being named as about to become a director of Vodafone AirTouch
in the Registration Statement on Form F-4 of Vodafone to be filed in connection
with the Merger.
April 21, 1999
/s/ PAUL HAZEN
-----------------------------------------
Paul Hazen
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 23(q)
CONSENT OF CHARLES R. SCHWAB
I hereby consent to being nominated as a director of Vodafone AirTouch
Public Limited Company ("Vodafone AirTouch") pursuant to the Agreement and Plan
of Merger, dated as of January 15, 1999, among Vodafone Group Public Limited
Company ("Vodafone"), AirTouch Communications, Inc. ("AirTouch") and Apollo
Merger Sub, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of Vodafone ("Apollo Merger Sub"),
providing for the merger (the "Merger") of Apollo Merger Sub with and into
AirTouch, and to being named as about to become a director of Vodafone AirTouch
in the Registration Statement on Form F-4 of Vodafone to be filed in connection
with the Merger.
April 21, 1999
/s/ CHARLES R. SCHWAB
-----------------------------------------
Charles R. Schwab
<PAGE>
[LOGO OF AIRTOUCH COMMUNICATIONS] VOTE BY TELEPHONE
24 HOURS A DAY, 7 DAYS A WEEK
TELEPHONE
800-650-3514
MAIL
Use any touch-tone telephone to vote your Mark, sign and date your proxy
proxy. Have your proxy card in hand when card and return it in the
you call. You will be prompted to enter your postage-paid envelope we have
control number, located in the box below, provided.
and then follow the simple directions.
Your telephone vote authorizes
the named proxies to vote your
shares in the same manner as
if you marked, signed and
returned the proxy card.
---------------------------------
If you have submitted your proxy
by telephone there is no need for
you to mail back your proxy.
---------------------------------
CONTROL NUMBER FOR
CALL TOLL-FREE TO VOTE - IT'S FAST AND CONVENIENT TELEPHONE VOTING
800-650-3514
DETACH PROXY CARD HERE IF YOU ARE NOT
VOTING BY TELEPHONE
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PLEASE DETACH HERE
You Must Detach This Portion of the Proxy Card
Before Returning it in the Enclosed Envelope
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF AIRTOUCH COMMUNICATIONS, INC. RECOMMENDS A VOTE FOR
THE FOLLOWING PROPOSALS:
1. Approval and Adoption of the Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of
January 15, 1999, among Vodafone Group Public Limited Company, an English
public limited company ("Vodafone"), AirTouch Communications, Inc., a
Delaware corporation ("AirTouch"), and Apollo Merger Sub, Inc., a Delaware
corporation and a wholly owned subsidiary of Vodafone.
FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN
/ / / / / /
2. Approval and adoption of the Amended and Restated Agreement and Plan of
Merger, dated as of April 16, 1999, between AirTouch and AirTouch Merger
Sub, Inc., a wholly owned subsidiary of AirTouch.
FOR AGAINST ABSTAIN
/ / / / / /
3. Address procedural matters that may properly come before the special
meeting or any adjournment or postponement of the special meeting.
I PLAN TO ATTEND ADDRESS CHANGE AND/OR
THE MEETING. / / COMMENTS MARK HERE / /
This proxy should be dated, signed by the stockholder as his or her name
appears below, and returned promptly in the enclosed envelope. Joint owners
should each sign personally, and trustees and others signing in a
representative capacity should indicate the capacity in which they sign.
Dated: __________________________________________________________________, 1999
_______________________________________________________________________________
Signature of Stockholder
_______________________________________________________________________________
Signature of Stockholder
PLEASE MARK, SIGN, DATE AND MAIL YOUR PROXY VOTES MUST BE INDICATED
CARD PROMPTLY IN THE ENCLOSED ENVELOPE. (X) IN BLACK OR BLUE INK. /X/
<PAGE>
YOUR VOTE IS IMPORTANT!
YOU CAN VOTE IN ONE OF TWO WAYS:
1. Call TOLL FREE 1-800-650-3514 on a touch tone telephone and follow the
instructions on the reverse side. There is NO CHARGE to you for this call.
OR
2. Mark, sign and date your proxy card and return it promptly in the enclosed
postage-paid envelope.
PLEASE VOTE
fold and detach here
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AIRTOUCH COMMUNICATIONS, INC.
THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED ON BEHALF OF THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF
AIRTOUCH COMMUNICATIONS, INC. FOR USE AT THE SPECIAL MEETING OF
STOCKHOLDERS TO BE HELD ON MAY 28, 1999
The undersigned holder of shares of common stock, par value $0.01 per
share, of AirTouch Communications, Inc. ("AirTouch" and such shares, the
"Common Stock") and/or shares of 6.00% Class B mandatorily convertible
preferred stock, Series 1996, par value $0.01 per share, of AirTouch (the
"Class B Preferred Stock") hereby appoints Sam L. Ginn and Margaret G. Gill
and each of them, as proxies of the undersigned, with full power of
substitution and resubstitution, to represent and vote as set forth herein
all of the shares of the Common Stock of AirTouch and/or shares of the Class
B Preferred Stock of AirTouch held of record by the undersigned on April 13,
1999 at the special meeting of stockholders to be held on May 28, 1999,
starting at 8:00 a.m., local time, and at any and all postponements and
adjournments thereof.
THIS PROXY, WHEN PROPERLY EXECUTED, WILL BE VOTED IN THE MANNER DIRECTED
BY THE UNDERSIGNED STOCKHOLDER. IF NO DIRECTION IS INDICATED, THIS PROXY WILL
BE VOTED "FOR" BOTH PROPOSALS SET FORTH ON THE OTHER SIDE OF THIS PROXY AND
OTHERWISE IN THE DISCRETION OF THE PROXY HOLDERS AS TO ANY PROCEDURAL MATTER
WHICH MAY PROPERLY COME BEFORE THE SPECIAL MEETING.
ALL PROXIES PREVIOUSLY GIVEN WITH RESPECT TO THE SHARES COVERED HEREBY
ARE HEREBY REVOKED.
IF THE UNDERSIGNED IS A PARTICIPANT IN THE AIRTOUCH RETIREMENT PLAN (THE
"PLAN") AND THIS PROXY CARD IS RECEIVED ON OR PRIOR TO 5:00 P.M., EASTERN
TIME ON MAY 26, 1999, THEN THIS CARD ALSO PROVIDES VOTING INSTRUCTIONS TO THE
TRUSTEE OF SUCH PLAN TO VOTE THE UNDERSIGNED'S SHARES HELD IN ITS ACCOUNT(S)
AS SPECIFIED ON THE REVERSE SIDE OF THIS CARD. IF THE UNDERSIGNED IS A
PARTICIPANT IN THE PLAN AND THIS CARD IS NOT RECEIVED BY 5:OO P.M., EASTERN
TIME ON MAY 26, 1999, THEN THE TRUSTEE WILL VOTE THE UNDERSIGNED'S
PLAN ACCOUNT SHARES IN PROPORTION
TO THE VOTES OF THE OTHER AIRTOUCH COMMUNICATIONS,INC.
PARTICIPANTS IN THE PLAN FOR WHICH P.O. BOX 11466
VOTING INSTRUCTIONS HAVE BEEN RECEIVED, NEW YORK, N.Y. 10203-0466
UNLESS TO DO SO WOULD BE INCONSISTENT
WITH THE TRUSTEE'S DUTIES.
(CONTINUED, AND TO BE SIGNED AND DATED, ON THE REVERSE SIDE.)
<PAGE>
EXHIBIT 99(D)
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE Department of the Treasury
Index Number: 367.03-00
Third-Party Contact-March 15, 1999-Individual Washington, DC 20224
Person to Contact:
Robert W. Lorence
AirTouch Communications, Inc. Telephone Number:
Att: Margaret G. Gill, Senior Vice President 202-622-3860
1 California Street Refer Reply To: PLR-103369-99
San Francisco, CA 94111 Date: April 12, 1999
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
UST = AirTouch Communications, Inc.
EIN 94-3213132
a domestic corporation
FA = Vodafone Group Public Limited Company
EIN:N/A
a United Kingdom corporation
Merger-Sub = Apollo Merger Sub Inc.
a domestic corporation
State A = Delaware
Year B = 1994
business C = wireless communications
Corp 1 = Pacific Telesis
business D = telephone
Corp 2 = AT&T
Year E = 1984
Country F = United Kingdom
Corp 3 = Racal Electronics plc
Date G = September 16, 1991
$yy = $9
Date H = January 15, 1999
Date I = January 19, 1999
</TABLE>
1
<PAGE>
Dear Ms. Gill:
This is in reply to your letter dated February 2, 1999, requesting rulings
under Treas. Reg. Section 1.367(a)-3(c), and whether, based on your
representations, the exchange of shares by U.S. persons will qualify for an
exception to the general rule of section 367(a) of the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended (the Code). Additional information was provided in letters
dated February 24, 1999, March 19, 1999, March 26, 1999, and April 5, 1999.
The rulings contained in this letter are based upon information and
representations submitted by the taxpayer and accompanied by a penalty of
perjury statement executed by an appropriate party. While this office has not
verified any of the material submitted in support of the request for the
rulings, it is subject to verification on examination.
UST is a domestic corporation incorporated under the laws of State A. UST is
the common parent corporation of an affiliated group of companies which files a
consolidated federal income tax return. UST was created in Year B in a spin-off
of business C from Corp 1, one of the regional business D companies created upon
the breakup of Corp 2 in Year E.
UST is engaged in business C, with significant interests in the United
States, Europe, and Asia. UST typically expands its worldwide operations through
the acquisition and formation of international joint ventures, with board
representation and the placement of employees in key management positions.
UST has issued and outstanding shares of common stock, as well as four
classes of preferred shares (Classes B, C, D, and E). The Class B preferred
stock is voting stock. The remaining classes of preferred shares are not
presently voting stock but will be voting stock at the time of the Merger. UST
common shares, Class B preferred stock, and Class C preferred stock are publicly
traded on U.S. stock exchanges. The Class B preferred stock will be converted
into UST common shares immediately before the Merger. The Class C preferred
stock is convertible at the option of the holder into UST common shares before
the merger.
UST has issued options to its officers and employees as part of its
incentive compensation plans. Any options to acquire UST common shares will vest
at the time of the Merger. UST has the right, prior to the Merger but subject to
certain restrictions, to issue to its officers and employees options to acquire
UST common shares.
FA is a Country F corporation and serves as the parent company to a number
of subsidiaries operating world-wide. FA was formed in Year E as a subsidiary of
Corp 3. By Date G, FA was fully de-merged from Corp 3 and its stock was publicly
traded.
FA is engaged in business C, with its principal operations located in
Country F. FA has a number of majority owned and wholly-owned subsidiaries in
foreign countries. FA also has minority interests in several international joint
ventures which operate in foreign countries, where FA usually has board
representation and significant operating influence. FA, like UST, typically
expands its world-wide operations through the acquisition and formation of such
international joint ventures.
FA has issued and outstanding Ordinary shares and options to purchase
Ordinary shares. FA has no other classes of shares issued or outstanding. FA's
Ordinary shares are listed on a foreign stock exchange, and depositary shares
(each of which is equivalent to ten Ordinary shares) are listed on a U.S. stock
exchange.
The Merger will occur as follows. Merger Sub, a newly-organized State A
corporation wholly-owned by FA, will merge into UST. UST will be the surviving
corporation and the separate existence of Merger Sub will cease. The holders of
UST common shares will receive, in exchange for their UST common shares, $yy
cash and five Ordinary shares of FA. The taxpayers represent that the Merger
will qualify as a reorganization under section 368(a)(1)(A) of the Code, by
virtue of section 368(a)(2)(E) of
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the Code. After the Merger, all of the UST common shares will be owned by FA.
The Class C preferred shares (not converted into UST common shares before the
Merger), Class D preferred stock, and Class E preferred stock will remain
outstanding voting stock of UST.
The exchange of UST common stock for FA Ordinary shares by U.S. persons is
subject to section 367(a) of the Code, which provides that the transfer of
appreciated property (including stock) by a U.S. person to a foreign corporation
in a transaction that would otherwise qualify as a nonrecognition exchange is
treated as a taxable transfer, unless an exception applies. In the case of a
section 367(a) transaction in which a U.S. person transfers domestic stock to a
foreign corporation, the U.S. transferor will qualify for nonrecognition
treatment if the requirements of Treas. Reg. Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(1) are
satisfied.
Among the Treas. Reg. Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(1) requirements is the
requirement that the U.S. target company satisfy the reporting requirements of
Treas. Reg. Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(6), and the requirement that each U.S.
transferor who is a 5-percent shareholder of the transferee foreign corporation
immediately after the exchange enter into a 5-year gain recognition agreement as
provided in Section 1.367(a)-8. The taxpayers represent that UST, as the U.S.
target company, will satisfy the reporting requirements of Section
1.367(a)-3(c)(6). The remaining Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(1) requirements are as
follows:
a. U.S persons transferring U.S. target stock must receive, in the
aggregate, 50 percent or less of both the total voting power and total
value of the stock in the transferee foreign corporation (taking into
account the attribution rules of section 318 of the Code, as modified by
the rules of section 958(b) of the Code). The taxpayers represent that
U.S. transferors of UST stock will receive, in the aggregate, actually or
constructively, 50 percent or less of both the total voting power and
total value of the stock in FA in the UST exchange.
b. U.S. persons who are officers or directors of the U.S. target
corporation, or who are 5-percent shareholders of the U.S. target
corporation, must own, in the aggregate, 50 percent or less of each of
the total voting power and the total value of the stock of the transferee
foreign corporation, immediately after the exchange of the U.S. target
stock (taking into account the attribution rules of section 318, as
modified by the rules of section 958(b)). The taxpayers represent that
U.S. persons who are officers, directors, or 5-percent target
shareholders of UST will own, in the aggregate, actually or
constructively, 50 percent or less of each of the total voting power and
total value of the stock of FA immediately after the UST exchange.
c. The active trade or business test of Treas. Reg. Section
1.367(a)-3(c)(3) must be satisfied. The three elements of the active
trade or business test are described below:
(i) The transferee foreign corporation (or any qualified subsidiary or
qualified partnership as defined under Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(5)(vii) and
(viii)) must have been engaged in the active conduct of a trade or business
outside the United States, within the meaning of Sections 1.367(a)-2T(b)(2)
and (3), for the entire 36-month period immediately preceding the exchange
of U.S. target stock. The taxpayers represent that FA (or its qualified
subsidiaries) will have been engaged in an active trade or business outside
the United States for the entire 36-month period preceding the UST exchange.
(ii) At the time of the exchange, neither the transferors nor the
transferee foreign corporation (or any qualified subsidiary or qualified
partnership engaged in the active trade or business) will have the intention
to substantially dispose of or discontinue such trade or business. The
taxpayers represent that neither the shareholders of UST nor FA (including
its qualified subsidiaries) have an intention to substantially dispose of or
discontinue such trade or business.
(iii) The substantiality test as defined in Treas. Reg. Section
1.367(a)-3(c)(3)(iii) must be satisfied.
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Under the substantiality test, the transferee foreign corporation must be
equal or greater in value than the U.S. target corporation at the time of the
U.S. target stock exchange (see Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(3)(iii)(A)).
The taxpayers represent that the market capitalization of FA during the six
months before Date H, the date the Merger Agreement was signed and the last day
of trading before the announcement of the Merger Agreement, was greater than
the market capitalization of UST for every day during the six month period
except for three days. However, because FA agreed to pay UST shareholders a
significant premium to acquire the UST common shares (due, in part, to a
competing bid for UST stock), the market capitalization of UST at the time of
the exchange (the closing date of the Merger) will in all likelihood be greater
than the market capitalization of FA. The market capitalization of UST, in
fact, was greater than the market capitalization of FA on Date I, shortly after
Date H, as a result of the market valuing UST stock in accordance with the
premium being paid for UST stock.
For purposes of the substantiality test, the value of the transferee foreign
corporation will include assets acquired outside the ordinary course of business
by the transferee foreign corporation within the 36-month period preceding the
exchange only if certain requirements are met (see Section
1.367(a)-3(c)(3)(iii)(B)). The taxpayers represent that, for purposes of the
substantiality test of Treas. Reg. Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(3)(iii)(B), the fair
market value of FA (including the value of stock of any qualified subsidiary of
FA and the value of an interest in any qualified partnership) will not include
the fair market value of any asset acquired by FA, a qualified subsidiary, or a
qualified partnership outside the ordinary course of business within the
36-month period preceding the Merger for the principal purpose of satisfying the
substantiality test of Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(3)(iii). Also, for purposes of this
fair market value representation, the taxpayers represent that the fair market
value of FA (including the value of stock in any qualified subsidiary or an
interest in any qualified partnership) will include assets producing, or held
for the production of, passive income as defined in section 1297(b) (formerly
section 1296(b)) which assets were acquired outside the ordinary course of
business within the 36-month period preceding the UST stock exchange only to the
extent such assets were acquired in a transaction (or series of related
transactions) which was not undertaken for a purpose of satisfying the
substantiality test of Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(3)(iii).
The taxpayers request a ruling under Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(9) that there
will be substantial compliance with the active trade or business test,
notwithstanding that FA may not be equal or greater in value than UST at the
time of closing, and notwithstanding that the substantiality test as described
in Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(3)(iii)(B) may not be met due to the acquisition by FA
or any qualified subsidiary or qualified partnership of FA of certain passive
assets not undertaken for a purpose of satisfying the substantiality test.
Under Treas. Reg. Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(9), the Service may, in limited
circumstances, issue a private letter ruling to permit the taxpayer to qualify
for an exception to section 367(a)(1), if the taxpayer is unable to satisfy all
of the requirements of the active trade or business test but is in substantial
compliance with such test and meets all of the other requirements of Section
1.367(a)-3(c)(1).
Based solely on the information submitted and on the representations set
forth above, it is held as follows:
(1) The transfer of the UST shares by U.S. persons in exchange for shares of
FA will qualify for an exception to section 367(a)(1) (Section
1.367(a)-3(c)(1) and Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(9)).
(2) Any U.S. person transferring UST shares who is a 5-percent transferee
shareholder (as defined in Section 1.367(a)-3(c)(5)(ii)) will qualify for
the exception to section 367(a) only upon entering into a 5-year gain
recognition agreement pursuant to Section 1.367(a)-8.
Except as expressly provided herein, no opinion is expressed or implied
concerning the tax consequences of any aspect of any transaction or item
discussed or referenced in this letter. In
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particular, no opinion was requested and none is expressed as to whether the UST
stock exchange qualifies as a reorganization within the meaning of section
368(a)(1)(A) of the Code, by virtue of section 368(a)(2)(E) of the Code.
A copy of this letter must be attached to any income tax return to which it
is relevant.
This ruling is directed only to the taxpayers(s) requesting it. Section
6110(j)(3) of the Code provides that it may not be used or cited as precedent.
In accordance with the Power of Attorney on file with this office, a copy of
this letter is being sent to your authorized representative.
Sincerely,
/s/ PHILIP L. TRETIAK
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Philip L. Tretiak
ASSISTANT TO THE BRANCH CHIEF, BRANCH
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OFFICE OF ASSOCIATE CHIEF COUNSEL
(INTERNATIONAL)
cc: District Director, Northern California District
Chief, Examination Division
Alan Kaden, Esquire
Fried, Frank, Harris, Shriver & Jacobson
1001 Penn. Ave., NW
Washington, D.C. 20004
Bernard Bress, Esquire
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
1301 K St., NW
Washington, D.C. 20005-3333
5
