<PAGE>
Filed Pursuant to Rule 497(c)
Registration File No.: 33-37562
PROSPECTUS - MARCH 30, 1999
Morgan Stanley Dean Witter
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
Consisting of ten separate fund portfolios:
Arizona Series
California Series
Florida Series
Massachusetts Series
Michigan Series
Minnesota Series
New Jersey Series
New York Series
Ohio Series
Pennsylvania Series
EACH SERIES SEEKS TO PROVIDE A HIGH LEVEL OF CURRENT
INCOME EXEMPT FROM BOTH FEDERAL AND DESIGNATED STATE
INCOME TAXES CONSISTENT WITH PRESERVATION OF CAPITAL
The Securities and Exchange Commission has not approved or disapproved
these securities or passed upon the adequacy of this Prospectus.
Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense.
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Overview ............................................. 1
The Arizona Series .......................... 2
The California Series ........................ 4
The Florida Series ........................... 6
The Massachusetts Series .................... 8
The Michigan Series ......................... 10
The Minnesota Series ......................... 12
The New Jersey Series ....................... 14
The New York Series .......................... 16
The Ohio Series .............................. 18
The Pennsylvania Series ..................... 20
Additional Investment Strategy Information ... 22
Additional Risk Information .................. 23
Fund Management ............................. 25
Shareholder Information Pricing Series Shares ........................ 26
How to Buy Shares ............................ 26
How to Exchange Shares ....................... 29
How to Sell Shares ........................... 31
Distributions ................................ 32
Tax Consequences ............................ 33
Financial Highlights ............................................. 35
Our Family of Funds .............................. Inside Back Cover
FUND CATEGORY
- -------------
[ ] Growth
[ ] Growth and Income
[X] INCOME
[ ] Money Market
<PAGE>
OVERVIEW
Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Multi-State Municipal Series Trust is an open-end,
non-diversified mutual fund that consists of ten separate fund portfolios --
Arizona Series
California Series
Florida Series
Massachusetts Series
Michigan Series
Minnesota Series
New Jersey Series
New York Series
Ohio Series
Pennsylvania Series
A Series-by-Series summary begins on the next page. Each summary provides a
Series' investment objective, principal investment strategies, principal risks,
past performance, and fees and expenses. Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Multi-State
Municipal Series Trust is one of Morgan Stanley Dean Witter's Income Funds.
This category of mutual fund has the goal of selecting securities to pay out
income rather than rise in value.
Shares of each Series are not bank deposits and are not guaranteed or insured
by any bank, governmental entity or the FDIC.
1
<PAGE>
THE ARIZONA SERIES
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
- --------------------
The Arizona Series seeks to provide a high level of current income exempt from
both federal and Arizona state income taxes consistent with preservation of
capital. There is no guarantee that the Arizona Series will achieve this
objective.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGY
- -----------------------------
The Arizona Series will invest at least 80% of its assets in securities that
pay interest normally exempt from federal and Arizona state income taxes. The
Arizona Series' "Investment Manager," Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Advisors Inc.,
generally invests in investment grade, Arizona municipal obligations and
obligations of U.S. Governmental territories such as Puerto Rico. The municipal
obligations may only be rated investment grade by Moody's Investors Service or
Standard & Poor's Corporation or Fitch Investors Services, LP or, if unrated,
judged to be of comparable quality by the Investment Manager at the time of
purchase. There are no maturity limitations on the Arizona Series' portfolio
securities.
The Arizona Series may invest any amount of its assets in securities that pay
interest income subject to the "alternative minimum tax," and some taxpayers
may have to pay tax on an Arizona Series distribution of this income. The
Arizona Series therefore may not be a suitable investment for these investors.
See the "Tax Consequences" section for more details.
The Arizona Series may take temporary "defensive" positions in attempting to
respond to adverse market conditions. The Arizona Series may invest any amount
of its assets in taxable money market instruments or in the highest grade
municipal obligations issued in other states when the Investment Manager
believes it is advisable to do so because of a defensive posture. Municipal
obligations of other states pay interest that is normally exempt from federal
income tax but not from Arizona income taxes. Defensive investing could have
the effect of reducing the Arizona Series' ability to provide tax exempt income
or otherwise meet its investment objective.
In addition to the securities described above, the Arizona Series may also
invest in private activity bonds, lease obligations and futures.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL RISKS
- ---------------
CREDIT AND INTEREST RATE RISKS. A principal risk of investing in the Arizona
Series is associated with its municipal investments, particularly its
concentration in municipal obligations of a single state. Municipal
obligations, as with all debt securities, are subject to two types of risks:
credit risk and interest rate risk. The "Additional Risk Information" section
contains a general discussion of credit and interest rate risks.
Unlike most fixed-income funds, the Arizona Series is subject to the added
credit risk of concentrating its investments in a single state -- Arizona --
and its municipalities. Because the Arizona Series concentrates its investments
in securities issued by Arizona state and local governments and government
authorities, the Arizona Series will be significantly affected by the
political, economic and regulatory developments concerning those issuers.
Should any difficulties develop concerning Arizona issuers ability to pay
principal and/or interest on their debt obligations, the Series' value and
yield could be adversely affected.
The Arizona Series is not limited as to the maturities of the securities in
which it may invest. Thus, a rise in the general level of interest rates may
cause the price of the Arizona Series' portfolio securities, and the Arizona
Series' share price, to fall substantially. A table in the "Additional Risk
Information" section shows how interest rates affect bonds.
The Arizona Series is classified as "non-diversified" and therefore may invest
a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of individual issuers than
"diversified" mutual funds and a decline in the value of those securities would
cause the overall value of the Series to decline to a greater degree.
The Arizona Series is also subject to other risk from its permissible
investments including the risk associated with private activity bonds, lease
obligations and futures.
2
<PAGE>
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PAST PERFORMANCE
- ----------------
The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the Arizona Series'
performance history. The Arizona Series' past performance does not indicate how
the Arizona Series will perform in the future.
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This chart shows how the performance of the Arizona Series' shares has varied
from year to year over the past 7 calendar years.
[sidebar close]
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS -- CALENDAR YEARS
[BAR GRAPH OMITTED]
1992 .......... 10.08%
1993 .......... 12.24%
1994 .......... -6.58%
1995 .......... 17.31%
1996 .......... 2.92%
1997 .......... 7.56%
1998 .......... 5.39%
The performance information in the bar chart does not reflect the deduction of
sales charges; if these amounts were reflected, returns would be less than
shown. During the periods shown in the bar chart, the highest return for a
calendar quarter was 7.20% (quarter ended March 31, 1995) and the lowest return
for a calendar quarter was -6.43% (quarter ended March 31, 1994).
[sidebar open]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This table compares the Arizona Series' average annual returns with those of a
broad measure of market performance over time. The Arizona Series' returns
include the maximum applicable front-end sales charge.
[sidebar close]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS (FOR THE PERIODS ENDED THE 1998 CALENDAR YEAR)
LIFE OF FUND
PAST 1 YEAR PAST 5 YEARS (SINCE 4/30/91)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Arizona Series 1.18% 4.18% 6.66%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lehman Municipal Bond Index1 6.48% 6.22% 7.87%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 The Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond Index tracks the performance of
municipal bonds with maturities of 2 years or greater and a minimum credit
rating of Baa or BBB, as rated by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. or
Standard & Poor's Corp., respectively. The Index does not include any
expenses, fees or charges. The Index is unmanaged and should not be
considered an investment.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
FEES AND EXPENSES
- -----------------
The table below briefly describes the Arizona Series' fees and expenses that
you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Arizona Series. The Arizona
Series does not charge account or exchange fees.
[sidebar open]
SHAREHOLDER FEES
These fees are paid directly from your investment.
[sidebar close]
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES
These expenses are deducted from the Arizona Series' assets and are based on
expenses paid for the fiscal year ended November 30, 1998.
[sidebar close]
<TABLE>
<S> <C>
SHAREHOLDER FEES
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases (as a percentage of
offering price) 4.0%
Maximum deferred sales charge (load) (as a percentage based on the
lesser of the offering price or net asset value at redemption) None
ANNUAL ARIZONA SERIES OPERATING EXPENSES
Management fee 0.35%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees 0.14%
Other expenses 0.16%
Total annual Arizona Series operating expenses 0.65%
</TABLE>
EXAMPLE This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in
the Arizona Series with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The
example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Arizona Series, your investment
has a 5% return each year, and the Arizona Series' operating expenses remain
the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, the tables below
show your costs at the end of each period based on these assumptions.
EXPENSES OVER TIME:
1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
--------------------------------------------
$ 465 $598 $743 $1,165
--------------------------------------------
3
<PAGE>
THE CALIFORNIA SERIES
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
- --------------------
The California Series seeks to provide a high level of current income exempt
from both federal and California state income taxes consistent with
preservation of capital. There is no guarantee that the California Series will
achieve this objective.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGY
- -----------------------------
The California Series will invest at least 80% of its assets in securities that
pay interest normally exempt from federal and California state income taxes.
The California Series' "Investment Manager," Morgan Stanley Dean Witter
Advisors Inc., generally invests in investment grade, California municipal
obligations and obligations of U.S. Governmental territories such as Puerto
Rico. The municipal obligations may only be rated investment grade by Moody's
Investors Service or Standard & Poor's Corporation or Fitch Investors Services,
LP or, if unrated, judged to be of comparable quality by the Investment Manager
at the time of purchase. There are no maturity limitations on the California
Series' portfolio securities.
The California Series may invest any amount of its assets in securities that
pay interest income subject to the "alternative minimum tax," and some
taxpayers may have to pay tax on a California Series distribution of this
income. The California Series therefore may not be a suitable investment for
these investors. See the "Tax Consequences" section for more details.
The California Series may take temporary "defensive" positions in attempting to
respond to adverse market conditions. The California Series may invest any
amount of its assets in taxable money market instruments or in the highest
grade municipal obligations issued in other states when the Investment Manager
believes it is advisable to do so because of a defensive posture. Municipal
obligations of other states pay interest that is normally exempt from federal
income tax but not from California income taxes. Defensive investing could have
the effect of reducing the California Series' ability to provide tax exempt
income or otherwise meet its investment objective.
In addition to the securities described above, the California Series may also
invest in private activity bonds, lease obligations and futures.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL RISKS
- ---------------
CREDIT AND INTEREST RATE RISKS. A principal risk of investing in the California
Series is associated with its municipal investments, particularly its
concentration in municipal obligations of a single state. Municipal
obligations, as with all debt securities, are subject to two types of risks:
credit risk and interest rate risk. The "Additional Risk Information" section
contains a general discussion of credit and interest rate risks.
Unlike most fixed-income funds, the California Series is subject to the added
credit risk of concentrating its investments in a single state -- California --
and its municipalities. Because the California Series concentrates its
investments in securities issued by California state and local governments and
government authorities, the California Series will be significantly affected by
the political, economic and regulatory developments concerning those issuers.
Should any difficulties develop concerning California issuers ability to pay
principal and/or interest on their debt obligations, the Series' value and
yield could be adversely affected.
The California Series is not limited as to the maturities of the securities in
which it may invest. Thus, a rise in the general level of interest rates may
cause the price of the California Series' portfolio securities, and the
California Series' share price, to fall substantially. A table in the
"Additional Risk Information" section shows how interest rates affect bonds.
The California Series is classified as "non-diversified" and therefore may
invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of individual
issuers than "diversified" mutual funds and a decline in the value of those
securities would cause the overall value of the Series to decline to a greater
degree.
The California Series is also subject to other risk from its permissible
investments including the risk associated with private activity bonds, lease
obligations and futures.
4
<PAGE>
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PAST PERFORMANCE
- ----------------
The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the California Series'
performance history. The California Series' past performance does not indicate
how the California Series will perform in the future.
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This chart shows how the performance of the California Series' shares has
varied from year to year over the past 7 calendar years.
[sidebar close]
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS -- CALENDAR YEARS
[BAR GRAPH OMITTED]
1992 .......... 9.18%
1993 .......... 13.77%
1994 .......... -8.53%
1995 .......... 19.25%
1996 .......... 4.75%
1997 .......... 8.43%
1998 .......... 6.03%
The performance information in the bar chart does not reflect the deduction
of sales charges; if these amounts were reflected, returns would be less than
shown. During the periods shown in the bar chart, the highest return for a
calendar quarter was 8.46% (quarter ended March 31, 1995) and the lowest return
for a calendar quarter was -7.10% (quarter ended March 31, 1994).
[sidebar open]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This table compares the California Series' average annual returns with those of
a broad measure of market performance over time. The California Series' returns
include the maximum applicable front-end sales charge.
[sidebar close]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS (FOR THE PERIODS ENDED THE 1998 CALENDAR YEAR)
LIFE OF FUND
PAST 1 YEAR PAST 5 YEARS (SINCE 1/15/91)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
California Series 1.79% 4.75% 7.43%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lehman Municipal Bond Index1 6.48% 6.22% 7.92%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 The Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond Index tracks the performance of
municipal bonds with maturities of 2 years or greater and a minimum credit
rating of Baa or BBB, as rated by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. or
Standard & Poor's Corp., respectively. The Index does not include any
expenses, fees or charges. The Index is unmanaged and should not be
considered an investment.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
FEES AND EXPENSES
- -----------------
The table below briefly describes the California Series' fees and expenses that
you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the California Series. The California
Series does not charge account or exchange fees.
[sidebar open]
SHAREHOLDER FEES
These fees are paid directly from your investment.
[sidebar close]
SHAREHOLDER FEES
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases (as a percentage of
offering price) 4.0%
Maximum deferred sales charge (load) (as a percentage based on the
lesser of the offering price or net asset value at redemption) None
ANNUAL CALIFORNIA SERIES OPERATING EXPENSES
Management fee 0.35%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees 0.15%
Other expenses 0.09%
Total annual California Series operating expenses 0.59%
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES
These expenses are deducted from the California Series' assets and are based on
expenses paid for the fiscal year ended November 30, 1998.
[sidebar close]
EXAMPLE This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in
the California Series with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The
example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the California Series, your
investment has a 5% return each year, and the California Series' operating
expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower,
the tables below show your costs at the end of each period based on these
assumptions.
EXPENSES OVER TIME:
- ---------------------------------------------
1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ---------------------------------------------
$459 $580 $712 $1,097
- ---------------------------------------------
5
<PAGE>
THE FLORIDA SERIES
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
- --------------------
The Florida Series seeks to provide a high level of current income exempt from
both federal and Florida state income taxes consistent with preservation of
capital. There is no guarantee that the Florida Series will achieve this
objective.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGY
- -----------------------------
The Florida Series will invest at least 80% of its assets in securities that
pay interest normally exempt from federal and the Florida State intangible tax.
(Florida does not impose an income tax on individuals.) The Florida Series'
"Investment Manager," Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Advisors Inc., generally
invests in investment grade, Florida municipal obligations and obligations of
U.S. Governmental territories such as Puerto Rico. The municipal obligations
may only be rated investment grade by Moody's Investors Service or Standard &
Poor's Corporation or Fitch Investors Services, LP or, if unrated, judged to be
of comparable quality by the Investment Manager at the time of purchase. There
are no maturity limitations on the Florida Series' portfolio securities.
The Florida Series may invest any amount of its assets in securities that pay
interest income subject to the "alternative minimum tax," and some taxpayers
may have to pay tax on a Florida Series distribution of this income. The
Florida Series therefore may not be a suitable investment for these investors.
See the "Tax Con- sequences" section for more details. The Florida Series may
take temporary "defensive" positions in attempting to respond to adverse market
conditions. The Florida Series may invest any amount of its assets in taxable
money market instruments or in the highest grade municipal obligations issued
in other states when the Investment Manager believes it is advisable to do so
because of a defensive posture. Municipal obligations of other states pay
interest that is normally exempt from federal income tax but not from the
Florida intangible tax. Defensive investing could have the effect of reducing
the Florida Series' ability to provide tax exempt income or otherwise meet its
investment objective.
In addition to the securities described above, the Florida Series may also
invest in private activity bonds, lease obligations and futures.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL RISKS
- ---------------
CREDIT AND INTEREST RATE RISKS. A principal risk of investing in the Florida
Series is associated with its municipal investments, particularly its
concentration in municipal obligations of a single state. Municipal
obligations, as with all debt securities, are subject to two types of risks:
credit risk and interest rate risk. The "Additional Risk Information" section
contains a general discussion of credit and interest rate risks.
Unlike most fixed-income funds, the Florida Series is subject to the added
credit risk of concentrating its investments in a single state -- Florida --
and its municipalities. Because the Florida Series concentrates its investments
in securities issued by Florida state and local governments and government
authorities, the Florida Series will be significantly affected by the
political, economic and regulatory developments concerning those issuers.
Should any difficulties develop concerning Florida issuers ability to pay
principal and/or interest on their debt obligations, the Series' value and
yield could be adversely affected.
The Florida Series is not limited as to the maturities of the securities in
which it may invest. Thus, a rise in the general level of interest rates may
cause the price of the Florida Series' portfolio securities, and the Florida
Series' share price, to fall substantially. A table in the "Additional Risk
Information" section shows how interest rates affect bonds.
The Florida Series is classified as "non-diversified" and therefore may invest
a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of individual issuers than
"diversified" mutual funds and a decline in the value of those securities would
cause the overall value of the Series to decline to a greater degree.
The Florida Series is also subject to other risk from its permissible
investments including the risk associated with private activity bonds, lease
obligations and futures.
6
<PAGE>
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PAST PERFORMANCE
- ----------------
The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the Florida Series'
performance history. The Florida Series' past performance does not indicate how
the Florida Series will perform in the future.
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This chart shows how the performance of the Florida Series' shares has varied
from year to year over the past 7 calendar years.
[sidebar close]
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS -- CALENDAR YEARS
[BAR GRAPH OMITTED]
1992 .......... 9.98%
1993 .......... 13.05%
1994 .......... -6.23%
1995 .......... 17.36%
1996 .......... 3.18%
1997 .......... 8.35%
1998 .......... 5.82%
The performance information in the bar chart does not reflect the deduction of
sales charges; if these amounts were reflected, returns would be less than
shown. During the periods shown in the bar chart, the highest return for a
calendar quarter was 7.08% (quarter ended March 31, 1995) and the lowest return
for a calendar quarter was -6.47% (quarter ended March 31, 1994).
[sidebar open]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This table compares the Florida Series' average annual returns with those of a
broad measure of market performance over time. The Florida Series' returns
include the maximum applicable front-end sales charge.
[sidebar close]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS (FOR THE PERIODS ENDED THE 1998 CALENDAR YEAR)
LIFE OF FUND
PAST 1 YEAR PAST 5 YEARS (SINCE 1/15/91)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Florida Series 1.59% 4.56% 7.13%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lehman Municipal Bond Index1 6.48% 6.22% 7.92%
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 The Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond Index tracks the performance of
municipal bonds with maturities of 2 years or greater and a minimum credit
rating of Baa or BBB, as rated by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. or
Standard & Poor's Corp., respectively. The Index does not include any
expenses, fees or charges. The Index is unmanaged and should not be
considered an investment.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
FEES AND EXPENSES
- -----------------
The table below briefly describes the Florida Series' fees and expenses that
you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Florida Series. The Florida
Series does not charge account or exchange fees.
[sidebar open]
SHAREHOLDER FEES
These fees are paid directly from your investment.
[sidebar close]
SHAREHOLDER FEES
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases (as a percentage of
offering price) 4.0%
Maximum deferred sales charge (load) (as a percentage based on the
lesser of the offering price or net asset value at redemption) None
ANNUAL FLORIDA SERIES OPERATING EXPENSES
Management fee 0.35%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees 0.14%
Other expenses 0.13%
Total annual Florida Series operating expenses 0.62%
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES
These expenses are deducted from the Florida Series' assets and are based on
expenses paid for the fiscal year ended November 30, 1998.
[sidebar close]
EXAMPLE This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in
the Florida Series with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The
example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Florida Series, your investment
has a 5% return each year, and the Florida Series' operating expenses remain
the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, the tables below
show your costs at the end of each period based on these assumptions.
EXPENSES OVER TIME
1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
--------------------------------------
$462 $589 $728 $1,131
--------------------------------------
7
<PAGE>
THE MASSACHUSETTS SERIES
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
- --------------------
The Massachusetts Series seeks to provide a high level of current income exempt
from both federal and Massachusetts state income taxes consistent with
preservation of capital. There is no guarantee that the Massachusetts Series
will achieve this objective.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGY
- -----------------------------
The Massachusetts Series will invest at least 80% of its assets in securities
that pay interest normally exempt from federal and Massachusetts state income
taxes. The Massachusetts Series' "Investment Manager," Morgan Stanley Dean
Witter Advisors Inc., generally invests in investment grade, Massachusetts
municipal obligations and obligations of U.S. Governmental territories such as
Puerto Rico. The municipal obligations may only be rated investment grade by
Moody's Investors Service or Standard & Poor's Corporation or Fitch Investors
Services, LP or, if unrated, judged to be of comparable quality by the
Investment Manager at the time of purchase. There are no maturity limitations
on the Massachusetts Series' portfolio securities.
The Massachusetts Series may invest any amount of its assets in securities that
pay interest income subject to the "alternative minimum tax," and some
taxpayers may have to pay tax on a Massachusetts Series distribution of this
income. The Massachusetts Series therefore may not be a suitable investment for
these investors. See the "Tax Consequences" section for more details.
The Massachusetts Series may take temporary "defensive" positions in attempting
to respond to adverse market conditions. The Massachusetts Series may invest
any amount of its assets in taxable money market instruments or in the highest
grade municipal obligations issued in other states when the Investment Manager
believes it is advisable to do so because of a defensive posture. Municipal
obligations of other states pay interest that is normally exempt from federal
income tax but not from Massachusetts income tax. Defensive investing could
have the effect of reducing the Massachusetts Series' ability to provide tax
exempt income or otherwise meet its investment objective.
In addition to the securities described above, the Massachusetts Series may
also invest in private activity bonds, lease obligations and futures.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL RISKS
- ---------------
CREDIT AND INTEREST RATE RISKS. A principal risk of investing in the
Massachusetts Series is associated with its municipal investments, particularly
its concentration in municipal obligations of a single state. Municipal
obligations, as with all debt securities, are subject to two types of risks:
credit risk and interest rate risk. The "Additional Risk Information" section
contains a general discussion of credit and interest rate risks.
Unlike most fixed-income funds, the Massachusetts Series is subject to the
added credit risk of concentrating its investments in a single state --
Massachusetts -- and its municipalities. Because the Massachusetts Series
concentrates its investments in securities issued by Massachusetts state and
local governments and government authorities, the Massachusetts Series will be
significantly affected by the political, economic and regulatory developments
concerning those issuers. Should any difficulties develop concerning
Massachusetts issuers ability to pay principal and/or interest on their debt
obligations, the Series' value and yield could be adversely affected.
The Massachusetts Series is not limited as to the maturities of the securities
in which it may invest. Thus, a rise in the general level of interest rates may
cause the price of the Massachusetts Series' portfolio securities, and the
Massachusetts Series' share price, to fall substantially. A table in the
"Additional Risk Information" section shows how interest rates affect bonds.
The Massachusetts Series is classified as "non-diversified" and therefore may
invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of individual
issuers than "diversified" mutual funds and a decline in the value of those
securities would cause the overall value of the Series to decline to a greater
degree.
The Massachusetts Series is also subject to other risk from its permissible
investments including the risk associated with private activity bonds, lease
obligations and futures.
8
<PAGE>
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PAST PERFORMANCE
- ----------------
The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the Massachusetts
Series' performance history. The Massachusetts Series' past performance does
not indicate how the Massachusetts Series will perform in the future.
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This chart shows how the performance of the Massachusetts Series' shares has
varied from year to year over the past 7 calendar years.
[sidebar close]
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS -- CALENDAR YEARS
[BAR GRAPH OMITTED]
1992 .......... 10.30%
1993 .......... 13.80%
1994 .......... -6.81%
1995 .......... 18.31%
1996 .......... 3.28%
1997 .......... 8.88%
1998 .......... 5.52%
The performance information in the bar chart does not reflect the deduction of
sales charges; if these amounts were reflected, returns would be less than
shown. During the periods shown in the bar chart, the highest return for a
calendar quarter was 7.83% (quarter ended March 31, 1995) and the lowest return
for a calendar quarter was -6.86% (quarter ended March 31, 1994).
[sidebar open]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This table compares the Massachusetts Series' average annual returns with those
of a broad measure of market performance over time. The Massachusetts Series'
returns include the maximum applicable front-end sales charge.
[sidebar close]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS (FOR THE PERIODS ENDED THE 1998 CALENDAR YEAR)
LIFE OF FUND
PAST 1 YEAR PAST 5 YEARS (SINCE 1/15/91)
Massachusetts Series 1.30% 4.66% 7.46%
Lehman Municipal Bond Index1 6.48% 6.22% 7.92%
1 The Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond Index tracks the performance of
municipal bonds with maturities of 2 years or greater and a minimum credit
rating of Baa or BBB, as rated by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. or
Standard & Poor's Corp., respectively. The Index does not include any
expenses, fees or charges. The Index is unmanaged and should not be
considered an investment.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
FEES AND EXPENSES
- -----------------
The table below briefly describes the Massachusetts Series' fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Massachusetts Series. The
Massachusetts Series does not charge account or exchange fees.
[sidebar open]
SHAREHOLDER FEES
These fees are paid directly from your investment.
[sidebar close]
SHAREHOLDER FEES
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases (as a percentage of
offering price) 4.0%
Maximum deferred sales charge (load) (as a percentage based on the
lesser of the offering price or net asset value at redemption) None
ANNUAL MASSACHUSETTS SERIES OPERATING EXPENSES
Management fee 0.35%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees 0.15%
Other expenses 0.32%
Total annual Massachusetts Series operating expenses 0.82%
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES
These expenses are deducted from the Massachusetts Series' assets and are based
on expenses paid for the fiscal year ended November 30, 1998.
[sidebar close]
EXAMPLE This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in
the Massachusetts Series with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The
example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Massachusetts Series, your
investment has a 5% return each year, and the Massachusetts Series' operating
expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower,
the tables below show your costs at the end of each period based on these
assumptions.
EXPENSES OVER TIME:
-------------------------------------------
1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
-------------------------------------------
$482 $650 $832 $1,358
-------------------------------------------
9
<PAGE>
THE MICHIGAN SERIES
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
- --------------------
The Michigan Series seeks to provide a high level of current income exempt from
both federal and Michigan state income taxes consistent with preservation of
capital. There is no guarantee that the Michigan Series will achieve this
objective.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGY
- -----------------------------
The Michigan Series will invest at least 80% of its assets in securities that
pay interest normally exempt from federal and Michigan state income taxes. The
Michigan Series' "Investment Manager," Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Advisors
Inc., generally invests in investment grade, Michigan municipal obligations and
obligations of U.S. Governmental territories such as Puerto Rico. The municipal
obligations may only be rated investment grade by Moody's Investors Service or
Standard & Poor's Corporation or Fitch Investors Services, LP or, if unrated,
judged to be of comparable quality by the Investment Manager at the time of
purchase. There are no maturity limitations on the Michigan Series' portfolio
securities.
The Michigan Series may invest any amount of its assets in securities that pay
interest income subject to the "alternative minimum tax," and some taxpayers
may have to pay tax on a Michigan Series distribution of this income. The
Michigan Series therefore may not be a suitable investment for these investors.
See the "Tax Consequences" section for more details.
The Michigan Series may take temporary "defensive" positions in attempting to
respond to adverse market conditions. The Michigan Series may invest any amount
of its assets in taxable money market instruments or in the highest grade
municipal obligations issued in other states when the Investment Manager
believes it is advisable to do so because of a defensive posture. Municipal
obligations of other states pay interest that is normally exempt from federal
income tax but not from Michigan income tax. Defensive investing could have the
effect of reducing the Michigan Series' ability to provide tax exempt income or
otherwise meet its investment objective.
In addition to the securities described above, the Michigan Series may also
invest in private activity bonds, lease obligations and futures.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL RISKS
- ---------------
CREDIT AND INTEREST RATE RISKS. A principal risk of investing in the Michigan
Series is associated with its municipal investments, particularly its
concentration in municipal obligations of a single state. Municipal
obligations, as with all debt securities, are subject to two types of risks:
credit risk and interest rate risk. The "Additional Risk Information" section
contains a general discussion of credit and interest rate risks.
Unlike most fixed-income funds, the Michigan Series is subject to the added
credit risk of concentrating its investments in a single state -- Michigan --
and its municipalities. Because the Michigan Series concentrates its
investments in securities issued by Michigan state and local governments and
government authorities, the Michigan Series will be significantly affected by
the political, economic and regulatory developments concerning those issuers.
Should any difficulties develop concerning Michigan issuers ability to pay
principal and/or interest on their debt obligations, the Series' value and
yield could be adversely affected.
The Michigan Series is not limited as to the maturities of the securities in
which it may invest. Thus, a rise in the general level of interest rates may
cause the price of the Michigan Series' portfolio securities, and the Michigan
Series' share price, to fall substantially. A table in the "Additional Risk
Information" section shows how interest rates affect bonds.
The Michigan Series is classified as "non-diversified" and therefore may invest
a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of individual issuers than
"diversified" mutual funds and a decline in the value of those securities would
cause the overall value of the Series to decline to a greater degree.
The Michigan Series is also subject to other risk from its permissible
investments including the risk associated with private activity bonds, lease
obligations and futures.
10
<PAGE>
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PAST PERFORMANCE
- ----------------
The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the Michigan Series'
performance history. The Michigan Series' past performance does not indicate
how the Michigan Series will perform in the future.
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This chart shows how the performance of the Michigan Series' shares has varied
from year to year over the past 7 calendar years.
[sidebar close]
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS -- CALENDAR YEARS
[BAR GRAPH OMITTED]
1992 .......... 10.05%
1993 .......... 13.21%
1994 .......... -6.96%
1995 .......... 18.48%
1996 .......... 3.50%
1997 .......... 8.08%
1998 .......... 5.93%
The performance information in the bar chart does not reflect the deduction of
sales charges; if these amounts were reflected, returns would be less than
shown. During the periods shown in the bar chart, the highest return for a
calendar quarter was 7.51% (quarter ended March 31, 1995) and the lowest return
for a calendar quarter was -6.69% (quarter ended March 31, 1994).
[sidebar open]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This table compares the Michigan Series' average annual returns with those of a
broad measure of market performance over time. The Michigan Series' returns
include the maximum applicable front-end sales charge.
[sidebar close]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS (FOR THE PERIODS ENDED THE 1998 CALENDAR YEAR)
LIFE OF FUND
PAST 1 YEAR PAST 5 YEARS (SINCE 1/15/91)
Michigan Series 1.69% 4.63% 7.35%
Lehman Municipal Bond Index1 6.48% 6.22% 7.92%
1 The Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond Index tracks the performance of
municipal bonds with maturities of 2 years or greater and a minimum credit
rating of Baa or BBB, as rated by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. or
Standard & Poor's Corp., respectively. The Index does not include any
expenses, fees or charges. The Index is unmanaged and should not be
considered an investment.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
FEES AND EXPENSES
- -----------------
The table below briefly describes the Michigan Series' fees and expenses that
you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Michigan Series. The Michigan
Series does not charge account or exchange fees.
[sidebar open]
SHAREHOLDER FEES
These fees are paid directly from your investment.
[sidebar close]
SHAREHOLDER FEES
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases (as a percentage of
offering price) 4.0%
Maximum deferred sales charge (load) (as a percentage based on the
lesser of the offering price or net asset value at redemption) None
ANNUAL MICHIGAN SERIES OPERATING EXPENSES
Management fee 0.35%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees 0.15%
Other expenses 0.28%
Total annual Michigan Series operating expenses 0.78%
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES
These expenses are deducted from the Michigan Series' assets and are based on
expenses paid for the fiscal year ended November 30, 1998.
[sidebar close]
EXAMPLE This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in
the Michigan Series with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The
example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Michigan Series, your investment
has a 5% return each year, and the Michigan Series' operating expenses remain
the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, the tables below
show your costs at the end of each period based on these assumptions.
<PAGE>
EXPENSES OVER TIME:
- ---------------------------------------------
1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ---------------------------------------------
$478 $638 $811 $1,313
- ---------------------------------------------
11
<PAGE>
THE MINNESOTA SERIES
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
- ---------------------
The Minnesota Series seeks to provide a high level of current income exempt
from both federal and Minnesota state income taxes consistent with preservation
of capital. There is no guarantee that the Minnesota Series will achieve this
objective.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGY
- -----------------------------
The Minnesota Series will invest at least 80% of its assets in securities that
pay interest normally exempt from federal and Minnesota state personal income
taxes. The Minnesota Series' "Investment Manager," Morgan Stanley Dean Witter
Advisors Inc., generally invests in investment grade, Minnesota municipal
obligations. The municipal obligations may only be rated investment grade by
Moody's Investors Service or Standard & Poor's Corporation or Fitch Investors
Services, LP or, if unrated, judged to be of comparable quality by the
Investment Manager at the time of purchase. While the Minnesota Series may only
invest some of its assets in non-Minnesota municipal obligations, the ability
of the Minnesota Series' to invest in such non-Minnesota municipal obligations
is limited by Minnesota Tax Law. There are no maturity limitations on the
Minnesota Series' portfolio securities.
The Minnesota Series may invest any amount of its assets in securities that pay
interest income subject to the federal "alternative minimum tax." This income,
along with other income, may also be subject to the Minnesota Alternative
Minimum Tax. Some taxpayers may have to pay tax on a Minnesota Series
distribution of this income. The Minnesota Series therefore may not be a
suitable investment for these investors. See the "Tax Consequences" section for
more details.
The Minnesota Series may take temporary "defensive" positions in attempting to
respond to adverse market conditions. Subject to Minnesota Tax Law
requirements, the Minnesota Series may invest any amount of its assets in
taxable money market instruments or in the highest grade municipal obligations
issued in other states when the Investment Manager believes it is advisable to
do so because of a defensive posture. Municipal obligations of other states pay
interest that is normally exempt from federal income tax but not from Minnesota
income tax. Defensive investing could have the effect of reducing the Minnesota
Series' ability to provide tax exempt income or otherwise meet its investment
objective.
In addition to the securities described above, the Minnesota Series may also
invest in private activity bonds, lease obligations and futures.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL RISKS
- ---------------
CREDIT AND INTEREST RATE RISKS. A principal risk of investing in the Minnesota
Series is associated with its municipal investments, particularly its
concentration in municipal obligations of a single state. Municipal
obligations, as with all debt securities, are subject to two types of risks:
credit risk and interest rate risk. The "Additional Risk Information" section
contains a general discussion of credit and interest rate risks.
Unlike most fixed-income funds, the Minnesota Series is subject to the added
credit risk of concentrating its investments in a single state -- Minnesota --
and its municipalities. Because the Minnesota Series concentrates its
investments in securities issued by Minnesota state and local governments and
government authorities, the Minnesota Series will be significantly affected by
the political, economic and regulatory developments concerning those issuers.
Should any difficulties develop concerning Minnesota issuers ability to pay
principal and/or interest on their debt obligations, the Series' value and
yield could be adversely affected.
The Minnesota Series is not limited as to the maturities of the securities in
which it may invest. Thus, a rise in the general level of interest rates may
cause the price of the Minnesota Series' portfolio securities, and the
Minnesota Series' share price, to fall substantially. A table in the
"Additional Risk Information" section shows how interest rates affect bonds.
TAXATION RISK. In accordance with Minnesota legislation enacted in 1995, income
dividend distributions that would otherwise be exempt from Minnesota personal
income tax in the case of individuals, estates and trusts may become subject to
that tax if the exemption of that income were judicially determined to
discriminate against interstate commerce.
The Minnesota Series is classified as "non-diversified" and therefore may
invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of individual
issuers than "diversified" mutual funds and a decline in the value of those
securities would cause the overall value of the Series to decline to a greater
degree.
The Minnesota Series is also subject to other risk from its permissible
investments including the risk associated with private activity bonds, lease
obligations and futures.
12
<PAGE>
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PAST PERFORMANCE
- ----------------
The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the Minnesota Series'
performance history. The Minnesota Series' past performance does not indicate
how the Minnesota Series will perform in the future.
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS -- CALENDAR YEARS
[BAR GRAPH OMITTED]
1992 .......... 9.00%
1993 .......... 13.05%
1994 .......... -7.12%
1995 .......... 18.13%
1996 .......... 3.78%
1997 .......... 7.22%
1998 .......... 5.07%
The performance information in the bar chart does not reflect the deduction of
sales charges; if these amounts were reflected, returns would be less than
shown. During the periods shown in the bar chart, the highest return for a
calendar quarter was 7.38% (quarter ended March 31, 1995) and the lowest return
for a calendar quarter was -6.64% (quarter ended March 31, 1994).
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This chart shows how the performance of the Minnesota Series' shares has varied
from year to year over the past 7 calendar years.
[sidebar close]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS (FOR THE PERIODS ENDED THE 1998 CALENDAR YEAR)
LIFE OF FUND
PAST 1 YEAR PAST 5 YEARS (SINCE 1/15/91)
Minnesota Series 0.87% 4.02% 6.48%
Lehman Municipal Bond Index1 6.48% 6.22% 7.92%
1 The Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond Index tracks the performance of
municipal bonds with maturities of 2 years or greater and a minimum credit
rating of Baa or BBB, as rated by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. or
Standard & Poor's Corp., respectively. The Index does not include any
expenses, fees or charges. The Index is unmanaged and should not be
considered an investment.
[sidebar open]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This table compares the Minnesota Series' average annual returns with those of
a broad measure of market performance over time.The Minnesota Series' returns
include the maximum applicable front-end sales charge.
[sidebar close]
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
FEES AND EXPENSES
- -----------------
The table below briefly describes the Minnesota Series' fees and expenses that
you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Minnesota Series. The Minnesota
Series does not charge account or exchange fees.
[sidebar open]
SHAREHOLDER FEES
These fees are paid directly from your investment.
[sidebar close]
SHAREHOLDER FEES
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases (as a percentage of
offering price) 4.0%
Maximum deferred sales charge (load) (as a percentage based on the
lesser of the offering price or net asset value at redemption) None
ANNUAL MINNESOTA SERIES OPERATING EXPENSES
Management fee 0.35%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees 0.15%
Other expenses 0.49%
Total annual Minnesota Series operating expenses 0.99%
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES
These expenses are deducted from the Minnesota Series' assets and are based on
expenses paid for the fiscal year ended November 30, 1998.
[sidebar close]
EXAMPLE This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in
the Minnesota Series with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The
example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Minnesota Series, your
investment has a 5% return each year, and the Minnesota Series' operating
expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower,
the tables below show your costs at the end of each period based on these
assumptions.
EXPENSES OVER TIME:
- --------------------------------------------
YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- --------------------------------------------
$499 $701 $920 $1,547
- --------------------------------------------
13
<PAGE>
THE NEW JERSEY SERIES
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
- --------------------
The New Jersey Series seeks to provide a high level of current income exempt
from both federal and New Jersey state income taxes consistent with
preservation of capital. There is no guarantee that the New Jersey Series will
achieve this objective.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGY
- -----------------------------
The New Jersey Series will invest at least 80% of its assets in securities that
pay interest normally exempt from federal and New Jersey state income taxes.
The New Jersey Series' "Investment Manager," Morgan Stanley Dean Witter
Advisors Inc., generally invests in investment grade, New Jersey municipal
obligations and obligations of U.S. Governmental territories such as Puerto
Rico. The municipal obligations may only be rated investment grade by Moody's
Investors Service or Standard & Poor's Corporation or Fitch Investors Services,
LP or, if unrated, judged to be of comparable quality by the Investment Manager
at the time of purchase. There are no maturity limitations on the New Jersey
Series' portfolio securities.
The New Jersey Series may invest any amount of its assets in securities that
pay interest income subject to the "alternative minimum tax," and some
taxpayers may have to pay tax on a New Jersey Series distribution of this
income. The New Jersey Series therefore may not be a suitable investment for
these investors. See the "Tax Consequences" section for more details.
The New Jersey Series may take temporary "defensive" positions in attempting to
respond to adverse market conditions. The New Jersey Series may invest any
amount of its assets in taxable money market instruments or in the highest
grade municipal obligations issued in other states when the Investment Manager
believes it is advisable to do so because of a defensive posture. Municipal
obligations of other states pay interest that is normally exempt from federal
income tax but not from New Jersey income tax. Defensive investing could have
the effect of reducing the New Jersey Series' ability to provide tax exempt
income or otherwise meet its investment objective.
In addition to the securities described above, the New Jersey Series may also
invest in private activity bonds, lease obligations and futures.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL RISKS
- ---------------
CREDIT AND INTEREST RATE RISKS. A principal risk of investing in the New Jersey
Series is associated with its municipal investments, particularly its
concentration in municipal obligations of a single state. Municipal
obligations, as with all debt securities, are subject to two types of risks:
credit risk and interest rate risk. The "Additional Risk Information" section
contains a general discussion of credit and interest rate risks.
Unlike most fixed-income funds, the New Jersey Series is subject to the added
credit risk of concentrating its investments in a single state -- New Jersey --
and its municipalities. Because the New Jersey Series concentrates its
investments in securities issued by New Jersey state and local governments and
government authorities, the New Jersey Series will be significantly affected by
the political, economic and regulatory developments concerning those issuers.
Should any difficulties develop concerning New Jersey issuers ability to pay
principal and/or interest on their debt obligations, the Series' value and
yield could be adversely affected.
The New Jersey Series is not limited as to the maturities of the securities in
which it may invest. Thus, a rise in the general level of interest rates may
cause the price of the New Jersey Series' portfolio securities, and the New
Jersey Series' share price, to fall substantially. A table in the "Additional
Risk Information" section shows how interest rates affect bonds.
The New Jersey Series is classified as "non-diversified" and therefore may
invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of individual
issuers than "diversified" mutual funds and a decline in the value of those
securities would cause the overall value of the Series to decline to a greater
degree.
The New Jersey Series is also subject to other risk from its permissible
investments including the risk associated with private activity bonds, lease
obligations and futures.
14
<PAGE>
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PAST PERFORMANCE
- ----------------
The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the New Jersey Series'
performance history. The New Jersey Series' past performance does not indicate
how the New Jersey Series will perform in the future.
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS -- CALENDAR YEARS
[BAR GRAPH OMITTED]
1992 .......... 10.08%
1993 .......... 12.81%
1994 .......... -7.12%
1995 .......... 17.55%
1996 .......... 3.34%
1997 .......... 9.07%
1998 .......... 5.86%
The performance information in the bar chart does not reflect the deduction of
sales charges; if these amounts were reflected, returns would be less than
shown. During the periods shown in the bar chart, the highest return for a
calendar quarter was 7.20% (quarter ended March 31, 1995) and the lowest return
for a calendar quarter was -6.52% (quarter ended March 31, 1994).
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This chart shows how the performance of the New Jersey Series' shares has
varied from year to year over the past 7 calendar years.
[sidebar close]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS (FOR THE PERIODS ENDED THE 1998 CALENDAR YEAR)
LIFE OF FUND
PAST 1 YEAR PAST 5 YEARS (SINCE 1/15/91)
New Jersey Series 1.63% 4.57% 7.25%
Lehman Municipal Bond Index1 6.48% 6.22% 7.92%
1 The Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond Index tracks the performance of
municipal bonds with maturities of 2 years or greater and a minimum credit
rating of Baa or BBB, as rated by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. or Standard
& Poor's Corp., respectively. The Index does not include any expenses, fees or
charges. The Index is unmanaged and should not be considered an investment.
[sidebar open]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This table compares the New Jersey Series' average annual returns with those of
a broad measure of market performance over time. The New Jersey Series' returns
include the maximum applicable front-end sales charge.
[sidebar close]
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
FEES AND EXPENSES
- -----------------
The table below briefly describes the New Jersey Series' fees and expenses that
you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the New Jersey Series. The New Jersey
Series does not charge account or exchange fees.
[sidebar open]
SHAREHOLDER FEES
These fees are paid directly from your investment.
[sidebar close]
SHAREHOLDER FEES
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases (as a percentage of
4.0%
offering price)
Maximum deferred sales charge (load) (as a percentage based on the
None
lesser of the offering price or net asset value at redemption)
ANNUAL NEW JERSEY SERIES OPERATING EXPENSES
Management fee 0.35%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees 0.14%
Other expenses 0.18%
Total annual New Jersey Series operating expenses 0.67%
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES
These expenses are deducted from the New Jersey Series' assets and are based on
expenses paid for the fiscal year ended November 30, 1998.
[sidebar close]
EXAMPLE This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in
the New Jersey Series with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The
example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the New Jersey Series, your
investment has a 5% return each year, and the New Jersey Series' operating
expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower,
the tables below show your costs at the end of each period based on these
assumptions.
<PAGE>
EXPENSES OVER TIME:
- ---------------------------------------------
1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ---------------------------------------------
$467 $604 $754 $1,188
- ---------------------------------------------
15
<PAGE>
THE NEW YORK SERIES
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
- --------------------
The New York Series seeks to provide a high level of current income exempt from
both federal and New York state income taxes consistent with preservation of
capital. There is no guarantee that the New York Series will achieve this
objective.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGY
- -----------------------------
The New York Series will invest at least 80% of its assets in securities that
pay interest normally exempt from federal and New York state income taxes. The
New York Series' "Investment Manager," Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Advisors
Inc., generally invests in investment grade, New York municipal obligations and
obligations of U.S. Governmental territories such as Puerto Rico. The municipal
obligations may only be rated investment grade by Moody's Investors Service or
Standard & Poor's Corporation or Fitch Investors Services, LP or, if unrated,
judged to be of comparable quality by the Investment Manager at the time of
purchase. There are no maturity limitations on the New York Series' portfolio
securities.
The New York Series may invest any amount of its assets in securities that pay
interest income subject to the "alternative minimum tax," and some taxpayers
may have to pay tax on a New York Series distribution of this income. The New
York Series therefore may not be a suitable investment for these investors. See
the "Tax Consequences" section for more details.
The New York Series may take temporary "defensive" positions in attempting to
respond to adverse market conditions. The New York Series may invest any amount
of its assets in taxable money market instruments or in the highest grade
municipal obligations issued in other states when the Investment Manager
believes it is advisable to do so because of a defensive posture. Municipal
obligations of other states pay interest that is normally exempt from federal
income tax but not from New York income tax. Defensive investing could have the
effect of reducing the New York Series' ability to provide tax exempt income or
otherwise meet its investment objective.
In addition to the securities described above, the New York Series may also
invest in private activity bonds, lease obligations and futures.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL RISKS
- ---------------
CREDIT AND INTEREST RATE RISKS. A principal risk of investing in the New York
Series is associated with its municipal investments, particularly its
concentration in municipal obligations of a single state. Municipal
obligations, as with all debt securities, are subject to two types of risks:
credit risk and interest rate risk. The "Additional Risk Information" section
contains a general discussion of credit and interest rate risks.
Unlike most fixed-income funds, the New York Series is subject to the added
credit risk of concentrating its investments in a single state -- New York --
and its municipalities. Because the New York Series concentrates its
investments in securities issued by New York state and local governments and
government authorities, the New York Series will be significantly affected by
the political, economic and regulatory developments concerning those issuers.
Should any difficulties develop concerning New York issuers ability to pay
principal and/or interest on their debt obligations, the Series' value and
yield could be adversely affected.
The New York Series is not limited as to the maturities of the securities in
which it may invest. Thus, a rise in the general level of interest rates may
cause the price of the New York Series' portfolio securities, and the New York
Series' share price, to fall substantially. A table in the "Additional Risk
Information" section shows how interest rates affect bonds.
The New York Series is classified as "non-diversified" and therefore may invest
a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of individual issuers than
"diversified" mutual funds and a decline in the value of those securities would
cause the overall value of the Series to decline to a greater degree.
The New York Series is also subject to other risk from its permissible
investments including the risk associated with private activity bonds, lease
obligations and futures.
16
<PAGE>
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PAST PERFORMANCE
- ----------------
The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the New York Series'
performance history. The New York Series' past performance does not indicate
how the New York Series will perform in the future.
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS -- CALENDAR YEARS
[BAR GRAPH OMITTED]
1992 .......... 9.28%
1993 .......... 13.85%
1994 .......... -8.16%
1995 .......... 19.31%
1996 .......... 3.68%
1997 .......... 9.19%
1998 .......... 6.06%
The performance information in the bar chart does not reflect the deduction of
sales charges; if these amounts were reflected, returns would be less than
shown. During the periods shown in the bar chart, the highest return for a
calendar quarter was 7.49% (quarter ended March 31, 1995) and the lowest return
for a calendar quarter was -6.78% (quarter ended March 31, 1994).
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This chart shows how the performance of the New York Series' shares has varied
from year to year over the past 7 calendar years.
[sidebar close]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS (FOR THE PERIODS ENDED THE 1998 CALENDAR YEAR)
PAST 1 YEAR PAST 5 YEARS (SINCE 1/15/91)
New York Series 1.81% 4.78% 7.52%
Lehman Municipal Bond Index1 6.48% 6.22% 7.92%
1 The Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond Index tracks the performance of
municipal bonds with maturities of 2 years or greater and a minimum credit
rating of Baa or BBB, as rated by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. or
Standard & Poor's Corp., respectively. The Index does not include any
expenses, fees or charges. The Index is unmanaged and should not be
considered an investment.
[sidebar open]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This table compares the New York Series' average annual returns with those of a
broad measure of market performance over time. The New York Series' returns
include the maximum applicable front-end sales charge.
[sidebar close]
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
FEES AND EXPENSES
- -----------------
The table below briefly describes the New York Series' fees and expenses that
you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the New York Series. The New York
Series does not charge account or exchange fees.
[sidebar open]
SHAREHOLDER FEES
These fees are paid directly from your investment.
[sidebar close]
SHAREHOLDER FEES
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases (as a percentage of 4.0%
offering price)
Maximum deferred sales charge (load) (as a percentage based on the None
lesser of the offering price or net asset value at redemption)
ANNUAL NEW YORK SERIES OPERATING EXPENSES
Management fee 0.35%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees 0.14%
Other expenses 0.35%
Total annual New York Series operating expenses 0.84%
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES
These expenses are deducted from the New York Series' assets and are based on
expenses paid for the fiscal year ended November 30, 1998.
[sidebar close]
EXAMPLE This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in
the New York Series with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The
example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the New York Series, your investment
has a 5% return each year, and the New York Series' operating expenses remain
the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, the tables below
show your costs at the end of each period based on these assumptions.
<PAGE>
EXPENSES OVER TIME:
- ---------------------------------------------
1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ---------------------------------------------
$484 $656 $842 $1,380
- ---------------------------------------------
17
<PAGE>
THE OHIO SERIES
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
- --------------------
The Ohio Series seeks to provide a high level of current income exempt from
both federal and Ohio state income taxes consistent with preservation of
capital. There is no guarantee that the Ohio Series will achieve this
objective.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGY
- ------------------------------
The Ohio Series will invest at least 80% of its assets in securities that pay
interest normally exempt from federal and Ohio state income taxes. The Ohio
Series' "Investment Manager," Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Advisors Inc.,
generally invests in investment grade, Ohio municipal obligations and
obligations of U.S. Governmental territories such as Puerto Rico. The municipal
obligations may only be rated investment grade by Moody's Investors Service or
Standard & Poor's Corporation or Fitch Investors Services, LP or, if unrated,
judged to be of comparable quality by the Investment Manager at the time of
purchase. There are no maturity limitations on the Ohio Series' portfolio
securities.
The Ohio Series may invest any amount of its assets in securities that pay
interest income subject to the "alternative minimum tax," and some taxpayers
may have to pay tax on an Ohio Series distribution of this income. The Ohio
Series therefore may not be a suitable investment for these investors. See the
"Tax Consequences" section for more details.
The Ohio Series may take temporary "defensive" positions in attempting to
respond to adverse market conditions. The Ohio Series may invest any amount of
its assets in taxable money market instruments or in the highest grade
municipal obligations issued in other states when the Investment Manager
believes it is advisable to do so because of a defensive posture. Municipal
obligations of other states pay interest that is normally exempt from federal
income tax but not from Ohio income tax. Defensive investing could have the
effect of reducing the Ohio Series' ability to provide tax exempt income or
otherwise meet its investment objective.
In addition to the securities described above, the Ohio Series may also invest
in private activity bonds, lease obligations and futures.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL RISKS
- ---------------
CREDIT AND INTEREST RATE RISKS. A principal risk of investing in the Ohio
Series is associated with its municipal investments, particularly its
concentration in municipal obligations of a single state. Municipal
obligations, as with all debt securities, are subject to two types of risks:
credit risk and interest rate risk. The "Additional Risk Information" section
contains a general discussion of credit and interest rate risks.
Unlike most fixed-income funds, the Ohio Series is subject to the added credit
risk of concentrating its investments in a single state -- Ohio -- and its
municipalities. Because the Ohio Series concentrates its investments in
securities issued by Ohio state and local governments and government
authorities, the Ohio Series will be significantly affected by the political,
economic and regulatory developments concerning those issuers. Should any
difficulties develop concerning Ohio issuers ability to pay principal and/or
interest on their debt obligations, the Series' value and yield could be
adversely affected.
The Ohio Series is not limited as to the maturities of the securities in which
it may invest. Thus, a rise in the general level of interest rates may cause
the price of the Ohio Series' portfolio securities, and the Ohio Series' share
price, to fall substantially. A table in the "Additional Risk Information"
section shows how interest rates affect bonds.
The Ohio Series is classified as "non-diversified" and therefore may invest a
greater percentage of its assets in the securities of individual issuers than
"diversified" mutual funds and a decline in the value of those securities would
cause the overall value of the Series to decline to a greater degree.
The Ohio Series is also subject to other risk from its permissible investments
including the risk associated with private activity bonds, lease obligations
and futures.
18
<PAGE>
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PAST PERFORMANCE
- ----------------
The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the Ohio Series'
performance history. The Ohio Series' past performance does not indicate how
the Ohio Series will perform in the future.
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS -- CALENDAR YEARS
[BAR GRAPH OMITTED]
1992 .......... 9.81%
1993 .......... 14.10%
1994 .......... -7.39%
1995 .......... 18.43%
1996 .......... 3.74%
1997 .......... 8.13%
1998 .......... 5.49%
The performance information in the bar chart does not reflect the deduction of
sales charges; if these amounts were reflected, returns would be less than
shown. During the periods shown in the bar chart, the highest return for a
calendar quarter was 7.53% (quarter ended March 31, 1995) and the lowest return
for a calendar quarter was -6.87% (quarter ended March 31, 1994).
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This chart shows how the performance of the Ohio Series' shares has varied from
year to year over the past 7 calendar years.
[sidebar close]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS (FOR THE PERIODS ENDED THE 1998 CALENDAR YEAR)
PAST 1 YEAR PAST 5 YEARS (SINCE 1/15/91)
Ohio Series 1.27% 4.50% 7.20%
Lehman Municipal Bond Index1 6.48% 6.22% 7.92%
1 The Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond Index tracks the performance of
municipal bonds with maturities of 2 years or greater and a minimum credit
rating of Baa or BBB, as rated by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. or
Standard & Poor's Corp., respectively. The Index does not include any
expenses, fees or charges. The Index is unmanaged and should not be
considered an investment.
[sidebar open]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This table compares the Ohio Series' average annual returns with those of a
broad measure of market performance over time. The Ohio Series' returns include
the maximum applicable front-end sales charge.
[sidebar close]
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
FEES AND EXPENSES
- -----------------
The table below briefly describes the Ohio Series' fees and expenses that you
may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Ohio Series. The Ohio Series does not
charge account or exchange fees.
[sidebar open]
SHAREHOLDER FEES
These fees are paid directly from your investment.
[sidebar close]
SHAREHOLDER FEES
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases (as a percentage of 4.0%
offering price)
Maximum deferred sales charge (load) (as a percentage based on the None
lesser of the offering price or net asset value at redemption)
ANNUAL OHIO SERIES OPERATING EXPENSES
Management fee 0.35%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees 0.14%
Other expenses 0.26%
Total annual Ohio Series operating expenses 0.75%
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES
These expenses are deducted from the Ohio Series' assets and are based on
expenses paid for the fiscal year ended November 30, 1998.
[sidebar close]
EXAMPLE This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in
the Ohio Series with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The example
assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Ohio Series, your investment has a 5%
return each year, and the Ohio Series' operating expenses remain the same.
Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, the tables below show your
costs at the end of each period based on these assumptions.
<PAGE>
EXPENSES OVER TIME:
- ---------------------------------------------
1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ---------------------------------------------
$475 $629 $795 $1,279
- ---------------------------------------------
19
<PAGE>
THE PENNSYLVANIA SERIES
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE
- --------------------
The Pennsylvania Series seeks to provide a high level of current income exempt
from both federal and Pennsylvania state income taxes consistent with
preservation of capital. There is no guarantee that the Pennsylvania Series
will achieve this objective.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL INVESTMENT STRATEGY
- -----------------------------
The Pennsylvania Series will invest at least 80% of its assets in securities
that pay interest normally exempt from federal and Pennsylvania state income
taxes. The Pennsylvania Series' "Investment Manager," Morgan Stanley Dean
Witter Advisors Inc., generally invests in investment grade, Pennsylvania
municipal obligations and obligations of U.S. Governmental territories such as
Puerto Rico. The municipal obligations may only be rated investment grade by
Moody's Investors Service or Standard & Poor's Corporation or Fitch Investors
Services, LP or, if unrated, judged to be of comparable quality by the
Investment Manager at the time of purchase. There are no maturity limitations
on the Pennsylvania Series' portfolio securities.
The Pennsylvania Series may invest any amount of its assets in securities that
pay interest income subject to the "alternative minimum tax," and some
taxpayers may have to pay tax on a Pennsylvania Series distribution of this
income. The Pennsylvania Series therefore may not be a suitable investment for
these investors. See the "Tax Consequences" section for more details.
The Pennsylvania Series may take temporary "defensive" positions in attempting
to respond to adverse market conditions. The Pennsylvania Series may invest any
amount of its assets in taxable money market instruments or in the highest
grade municipal obligations issued in other states when the Investment Manager
believes it is advisable to do so because of a defensive posture. Municipal
obligations of other states pay interest that is normally exempt from federal
income tax but not from Pennsylvania income tax. Defensive investing could have
the effect of reducing the Pennsylvania Series' ability to provide tax exempt
income or otherwise meet its investment objective.
In addition to the securities described above, the Pennsylvania Series may also
invest in private activity bonds, lease obligations and futures.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRINCIPAL RISKS
- ---------------
CREDIT AND INTEREST RATE RISKS. A principal risk of investing in the
Pennsylvania Series is associated with its municipal investments, particularly
its concentration in municipal obligations of a single state. Municipal
obligations, as with all debt securities, are subject to two types of risks:
credit risk and interest rate risk. The "Additional Risk Information" section
contains a general discussion of credit and interest rate risks.
Unlike most fixed-income funds, the Pennsylvania Series is subject to the added
credit risk of concentrating its investments in a single state -- Pennsylvania
- -- and its municipalities. Because the Pennsylvania Series concentrates its
investments in securities issued by Pennsylvania state and local governments
and government authorities, the Pennsylvania Series will be significantly
affected by the political, economic and regulatory developments concerning
those issuers. Should any difficulties develop concerning Pennsylvania issuers
ability to pay principal and/or interest on their debt obligations, the Series'
value and yield could be adversely affected.
The Pennsylvania Series is not limited as to the maturities of the securities
in which it may invest. Thus, a rise in the general level of interest rates may
cause the price of the Pennsylvania Series' portfolio securities, and the
Pennsylvania Series' share price, to fall substantially. A table in the
"Additional Risk Information" section shows how interest rates affect bonds.
The Pennsylvania Series is classified as "non-diversified" and therefore may
invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of individual
issuers than "diversified" mutual funds and a decline in the value of those
securities would cause the overall value of the Series to decline to a greater
degree.
The Pennsylvania Series is also subject to other risk from its permissible
investments including the risk associated with private activity bonds, lease
obligations and futures.
20
<PAGE>
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PAST PERFORMANCE
- ----------------
The bar chart and table below provide some indication of the Pennsylvania
Series' performance history. The Pennsylvania Series' past performance does not
indicate how the Pennsylvania Series will perform in the future.
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS -- CALENDAR YEARS
[BAR GRAPH OMITTED]
1992 .......... 10.41%
1993 .......... 13.16%
1994 .......... -6.88%
1995 .......... 17.62%
1996 .......... 3.59%
1997 .......... 8.51%
1998 .......... 5.05%
The performance information in the bar chart does not reflect the deduction of
sales charges; if these amounts were reflected, returns would be less than
shown. During the periods shown in the bar chart, the highest return for a
calendar quarter was 7.39% (quarter ended March 31, 1995) and the lowest return
for a calendar quarter was -7.11% (quarter ended March 31, 1994).
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This chart shows how the performance of the Pennsylvania Series' shares has
varied from year to year over the past 7 calendar years.
[sidebar close]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS (FOR THE PERIODS ENDED THE 1998 CALENDAR YEAR)
PAST 1 YEAR PAST 5 YEARS (SINCE 1/15/91)
Pennsylvania Series 0.85% 4.42% 7.12%
Lehman Municipal Bond Index1 6.48% 6.22% 7.92%
1 The Lehman Brothers Municipal Bond Index tracks the performance of
municipal bonds with maturities of 2 years or greater and a minimum credit
rating of Baa or BBB, as rated by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. or
Standard & Poor's Corp., respectively. The Index does not include any
expenses, fees or charges. The Index is unmanaged and should not be
considered an investment.
[sidebar open]
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS
This table compares the Pennsylvania Series' average annual returns with those
of a broad measure of market performance over time. The Pennsylvania Series'
returns include the maximum applicable front-end sales charge.
[sidebar close]
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
FEES AND EXPENSES
- -----------------
The table below briefly describes the Pennsylvania Series' fees and expenses
that you may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Pennsylvania Series. The
Pennsylvania Series does not charge account or exchange fees.
[sidebar open]
SHAREHOLDER FEES
These fees are paid directly from your investment.
[sidebar close]
SHAREHOLDER FEES
Maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases (as a percentage of 4.0%
offering price)
Maximum deferred sales charge (load) (as a percentage based on the None
lesser of the offering price or net asset value at redemption)
ANNUAL PENNSYLVANIA SERIES OPERATING EXPENSES
Management fee 0.35%
Distribution and service (12b-1) fees 0.15%
Other expenses 0.14%
Total annual Pennsylvania Series operating expenses 0.64%
[sidebar open]
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES
These expenses are deducted from the Pennsylvania Series' assets and are based
on expenses paid for the fiscal year ended November 30, 1998.
[sidebar close]
EXAMPLE This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in
the Pennsylvania Series with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The
example assumes that you invest $10,000 in the Pennsylvania Series, your
investment has a 5% return each year, and the Pennsylvania Series' operating
expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower,
the tables below show your costs at the end of each period based on these
assumptions.
<PAGE>
EXPENSES OVER TIME:
- ---------------------------------------------
1 YEAR 3 YEARS 5 YEARS 10 YEARS
- ---------------------------------------------
$464 $595 $738 $1,154
- ---------------------------------------------
21
<PAGE>
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
ADDITIONAL INVESTMENT STRATEGY INFORMATION
- ------------------------------------------
The investment objective of each Series is to seek to provide a high level of
current income exempt from both federal and respective state income taxes
consistent with preservation of capital. There is no guarantee that each Series
will achieve its objective.
This section provides additional information concerning each of the Series'
principal investments. In pursuing each Series' investment objective, the
Investment Manager has considerable leeway in deciding which investments it
buys, holds or sells on a day-to-day basis -- and which investment strategies
it uses. For example, the Investment Manager in its discretion may determine to
use some permitted investment strategies while not using others.
Each Series' policy of investing at least eighty percent of its assets in
securities the interest on which is exempt from federal income taxes and income
taxes of the designated state is fundamental. The fundamental policies may not
be changed without shareholder approval.
MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS. Each Series may invest in municipal obligations, which
are securities issued by state and local governments. These securities
typically are "general obligation" or "revenue" bonds, notes or commercial
paper. The general obligation securities are secured by the issuer's faith and
credit, as well as its taxing power, for payment of principal and interest.
Revenue bonds, however, are generally payable from a specific revenue source.
They are issued for a wide variety of projects such as financing public
utilities, housing units, airports and highways, and schools. The Fund's
municipal obligation investments may include zero coupon securities, which pay
no interest to the Fund.
PRIVATE ACTIVITY BONDS. Each Series may invest more than 25% of its assets in
municipal obligations known as private activity bonds. These securities
include, for example, housing, industrial development and pollution control
revenue, electric utility, manufacturing, and transportation facilities.
LEASE OBLIGATIONS. Included within the revenue bonds category are
participations in lease obligations or installment purchase contracts of
municipalities. Generally, state and local agencies or authorities issue lease
obligations to acquire equipment and facilities for public and private
purposes.
FUTURES. Each Series may purchase and sell in put and call futures with respect
to financial instruments and municipal bond indexes. Futures may be used to
seek to hedge against interest rate changes.
FUND STRUCTURE. The Fund may seek to achieve its investment objectives by
investing all of its assets in another mutual fund. The other fund would have
substantially the same investment objectives and policies as the Fund.
22
<PAGE>
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
ADDITIONAL RISK INFORMATION
- ---------------------------
CREDIT AND INTEREST RATE RISK. A principal risk of investing in each Series is
associated with its fixed-income investments. All fixed-income securities, such
as municipal obligations, are subject to two types of risk: credit risk and
interest rate risk. Credit risk refers to the possibility that the issuer of a
security will be unable to make interest payments and/or repay the principal on
its debt.
Interest rate risk refers to fluctuations in the value of a fixed-income
security resulting from changes in the general level of interest rates. When
the general level of interest rates goes up, the prices of most fixed-income
securities goes down. When the general level of interest rates goes down, the
prices of most fixed-income securities goes up. (Zero coupon securities are
typically subject to greater price fluctuations than comparable securities that
pay current interest.) As merely illustrative of the relationship between
fixed-income securities and interest rates, the following table shows how
interest rates affect bond prices.
HOW INTEREST RATES AFFECT BOND PRICES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
PRICE PER $1,000 OF A MUNICIPAL BOND IF INTEREST RATES:
-------------------------------------------------------
INCREASE* DECREASE**
-------------------------------------------------------
BOND MATURITY COUPON 1% 2% 1% 2%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 Year 1999 3.00% $990 $981 $1,010 $1,020
5 Years 2003 3.75% $956 $914 $1,046 $1,095
10 Years 2008 4.10% $922 $852 $1,085 $1,180
20 Years 2018 4.90% $883 $785 $1,138 $1,302
30 Years 2028 4.95% $861 $749 $1,175 $1,396
Source: Municipal Market Data (a division of Thomson Financial Municipal
Group): "Aaa" yield curve as of 12/31/98
* Assumes no effect from market discount calculation.
** Assumes bonds are non-callable.
In addition, the table is an illustration and does not represent expected
yields or share price changes of any Morgan Stanley Dean Witter mutual fund.
PRIVATE ACTIVITY BONDS. The issuers of private activity bonds in which a
particular Series may invest may be negatively impacted by conditions affecting
either the general credit of the user of the private activity project or the
project itself. Conditions such as regulatory and environmental restrictions
and economic downturns may lower the need for these facilities and the ability
of users of the project to pay for the facilities. This could cause a decline
in the Series' value. The Series' private activity bond holdings also may pay
interest subject to the alternative minimum tax. See the "Tax Consequences"
section for more details.
LEASE OBLIGATIONS. Lease obligations may have risks not normally associated
with general obligation or other revenue bonds. Leases, and installment
purchase or conditional sale contracts (which may provide for title to the
leased asset to pass eventually to the issuer) have developed as a means for
governmental issuers to acquire property and equipment without the necessity of
complying with the constitutional and statutory requirements generally
applicable for the issuance of debt. Certain lease obligations contain
"non-appropriation" clauses that provide that the governmental issuer has no
obligation to make future payments under the lease or
23
<PAGE>
contract unless money is appropriated for that purpose by the appropriate
legislative body on an annual or other periodic basis. Consequently, continued
lease payments on those lease obligations containing "non-appropriation"
clauses are dependent on future legislative actions. If these legislative
actions do not occur, the holders of the lease obligation may experience
difficulty in exercising their rights, including disposition of the property.
BOND INSURANCE RISK. Many of the municipal obligations that each Series invests
in will be covered by insurance at the time of issuance or at a later date.
Such insurance covers the remaining term of the security. Insured municipal
obligations would generally be assigned a lower rating if the rating were based
primarily on the credit quality of the issuer without regard to the insurance
feature. If the claims-paying ability of the insurer were downgraded, the
ratings on the municipal obligations it insures may also be downgraded.
FUTURES. If a Series purchases or sells futures, its participation in these
markets would subject the Series' portfolio to certain risks. The Investment
Manager's predictions of movements in the direction of interest rate markets
may be inaccurate, and the adverse consequences to the Series (e.g., a
reduction in the Series' net asset value or a reduction in the amount of income
available for distribution) may leave the Series' in a worse position than if
these strategies were not used. Other risks inherent in the use of futures
include, for example, the possible imperfect correlation between the price of
futures contracts and movements in the prices of the securities being hedged,
and the possible absence of a liquid secondary market for any particular
instrument. The risk of imperfect correlations may be increased by the fact
that futures contracts in which the Series may invest are taxable securities
rather than tax-exempt securities. The prices of taxable securities may not
move in a similar manner to prices of tax-exempt securities.
NON-DIVERSIFIED STATUS. Each Series is classified as "non-diversified" and, as
such, its investments are not required to meet certain diversification
requirements under federal law. Compared with "diversified" funds, each Series
may invest a greater percentage of its assets in the securities of an
individual issuer. Thus, each Series' assets may be concentrated in fewer
securities than other funds. A decline in the value of those investments would
cause each Series' overall value to decline to a greater degree.
YEAR 2000. Each Series could be adversely affected if the computer systems
necessary for the efficient operation of the Investment Manager, the Series'
other service providers and the markets and individual and governmental issuers
in which each Series invests do not properly process and calculate date-related
information from and after January 1, 2000. While year 2000-related computer
problems could have a negative effect on a Series, the Investment Manager and
affiliates are working hard to avoid any problems and to obtain assurances from
their service providers that they are taking similar steps.
24
<PAGE>
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
FUND MANAGEMENT
- ---------------
The Fund has retained the Investment Manager -- Morgan Stanley Dean Witter
Advisors Inc. -- to provide administrative services, manage its business affairs
and invest its assets, including the placing of orders for the purchase and sale
of portfolio securities. The Investment Manager is a wholly-owned subsidiary of
Morgan Stanley Dean Witter & Co., a preeminent global financial services firm
that maintains leading market positions in each of its three primary businesses:
securities, asset management and credit services. Its main business office is
located at Two World Trade Center, New York, New York 10048.
[sidebar open]
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER ADVISORS INC.
The Investment Manager is widely recognized as a leader in the mutual fund
industry and together with Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Services Company Inc.,
its wholly-owned subsidiary, has more than $126.2 billion in assets under
management or administration as of February 28, 1999.
[sidebar close]
Each Series' portfolio is managed within the Investment Manager's Tax-Exempt
Fixed-Income Group. James F. Willison, a Senior Vice President of the
Investment Manager has been the primary portfolio manager of each Series since
the Fund's inception and has been a portfolio manager with the Investment
Manager for over five years.
Each Series pays the Investment Manager a monthly management fee as full
compensation for the services and facilities furnished to the Series, and for
Series expenses assumed by the Investment Manager. The fee is based on each
Series' average daily net assets. For the fiscal year ended November 30, 1998,
each Series accrued total compensation to the Investment Manager amounting to
0.35% of the Series' average daily net assets.
25
<PAGE>
SHAREHOLDER INFORMATION
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
PRICING SERIES SHARES
- ---------------------
The price of Series shares (excluding sales charges), called "net asset value,"
is based on the value of a Series' portfolio securities.
The net asset value per share of each Series is determined once daily at 4:00
p.m., Eastern time, on each day that the New York Stock Exchange is open (or,
on days when the New York Stock Exchange closes prior to 4:00 p.m., at such
earlier time). Shares will not be priced on days that the New York Stock
Exchange is closed.
The value of the Fund's portfolio securities (except for short-term taxable
debt securities and certain other investments) are valued by an outside
independent pricing service. The service uses a computerized grid matrix of
tax-exempt securities and its evaluations in determining what it believes is
the fair value of the portfolio securities. The Fund's Board of Trustees
believes that timely and reliable market quotations are generally not readily
available to the Fund to value tax-exempt securities and the valuations that
the pricing service supplies are more likely to approximate the fair value of
the securities.
Short-term debt portfolio securities with remaining maturities of sixty days or
less at the time of purchase are valued at amortized cost. However, if the cost
does not reflect the securities' market value, these securities will be valued
at their fair value.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
HOW TO BUY SHARES
- -----------------
You may open a new account to buy Series shares or buy additional Series shares
for an existing account by contacting your Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Financial
Advisor or other authorized financial representative. Your Financial Advisor
will assist you, step-by-step, with the procedures to invest in the Series. You
may also purchase shares directly by calling the Fund's transfer agent and
requesting an application.
[sidebar open]
CONTACTING A FINANCIAL ADVISOR
If you are new to the Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Family of Funds and would like
to contact a Financial Advisor, call (800) THE-DEAN for the telephone number of
the Morgan Stanley Dean Witter office nearest you. You may also access our
office locator on our Internet site at:
www.deanwitter.com/funds
[sidebar close]
When you buy Series shares, the shares are purchased at the next share price
calculated (less any applicable front-end sales charge) after we receive your
investment order in proper form. We reserve the right to reject any order for
the purchase of Series shares.
26
<PAGE>
MINIMUM INVESTMENT AMOUNTS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MINIMUM INVESTMENT
--------------------------
INVESTMENT OPTIONS INITIAL ADDITIONAL
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Regular accounts: $1,000 $100
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
EasyInvest(SM) (Automatically from your
checking or savings account
Money Market Fund) $ 100* $100*
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
* Provided your schedule of investments totals $1,000 in twelve months.
[sidebar open]
EASYINVEST(SM)
A purchase plan that allows you to transfer money automatically from your
checking or savings account or from a Money Market Fund on a semi-monthly,
monthly or quarterly basis. Contact your Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Financial
Advisor for further information about this service.
[sidebar close]
There is no minimum investment amount if you purchase Fund shares through: (1)
the Investment Manager's mutual fund asset allocation plan, (2) a program,
approved by the Fund's distributor, in which you pay an asset-based fee for
advisory, administrative and/or brokerage services, or (3) employer-sponsored
employee benefit plan accounts.
THREE DAY SETTLEMENT. Series shares are sold through the Fund's distributor,
Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Distributors Inc., on a normal three business day
basis; that is, your payment for any Series shares is due on the third business
day (settlement day) after you place a purchase order.
ADVISORY, ADMINISTRATIVE OR BROKERAGE PROGRAMS. There is no minimum investment
amount if you purchase Fund shares through: (1) the Investment Manager's mutual
fund asset allocation plan, or (2) a program, approved by the Series'
distributor, in which you pay an asset-based fee for advisory, administrative
and/or brokerage services.
SUBSEQUENT INVESTMENTS SENT DIRECTLY TO THE FUND. In addition to buying
additional Series shares for an existing account by contacting your Morgan
Stanley Dean Witter Financial Advisor, you may send a check directly to a
Series. To buy additional shares in this manner:
o Write a "letter of instruction" to the Series specifying the name(s) on the
account, the account number, the social security or tax identification
number, and the investment amount (which would include any applicable
front-end sales charge). The letter must be signed by the account owner(s).
o Make out a check for the total amount payable to: Morgan Stanley Dean Witter
Multi-State Municipal Series Trust (name of Series).
o Mail the letter and check to Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Trust FSB at P.O. Box
1040, Jersey City, NJ 07303.
SALES CHARGES. Shares of each Series are sold at net asset value plus an
initial sales charge of up to 4.0%. The initial sales charge is reduced for
purchases of $25,000 or more according to the schedule below. A Series' shares
are also subject to a distribution (12b-1) fee of up to 0.15% of the average
daily net assets of the Series.
27
<PAGE>
The offering price of Series shares includes a sales charge (expressed as a
percentage of the offering price) on a single transaction as shown in the
following table:
FRONT-END SALES CHARGE
---------------------------------------------
PERCENTAGE OF APPROXIMATE PERCENTAGE
AMOUNT OF SINGLE TRANSACTION PUBLIC OFFERING PRICE OF AMOUNT INVESTED
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less than $25,000 4.00% 4.17%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$25,000 but less than $50,000 3.50% 3.63%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$50,000 but less than $100,000 3.25% 3.36%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$100,000 but less than $250,000 2.75% 2.83%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$250,000 but less than $500,000 2.50% 2.56%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$500,000 but less than $1 million 1.75% 1.78%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$1 million and over 0.50% 0.50%
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[sidebar open]
FRONT-END SALES CHARGE OR FSC
An initial sales charge you pay when purchasing a Series' shares that is based
on a percentage of the offering price. The percentage declines based upon the
dollar value of the Series' shares you purchase. We offer three ways to reduce
your sales charges -- the Combined Purchase Privilege, Right of Accumulation
and Letter of Intent.
[sidebar close]
The reduced sales charge schedule is applicable to purchases of Series shares
in a single transaction by:
o A single account (including an individual, trust or fiduciary account).
o Family member accounts (limited to husband, wife and children under the age
of 21).
o Pension, profit sharing or other employee benefit plans of companies and
their affiliates.
o Tax-Exempt Organizations
o Groups organized for a purpose other than to buy mutual fund shares.
COMBINED PURCHASE PRIVILEGE. You also will have the benefit of reduced sales
charges by combining purchases of shares of a Series in a single transaction
with purchases of another Series Class A shares of Multi-Class Funds and shares
of other FSC Funds.
RIGHT OF ACCUMULATION. You also may benefit from a reduction of sales charges
if the cumulative net asset value of shares of a Series purchased in a single
transaction, together with shares of another Series or other Funds you
currently own which were previously purchased at a price including a front-end
sales charge (including shares acquired through reinvestment of distributions),
amounts to $25,000 or more.
You must notify your Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Financial Advisor or other
authorized financial representative (or Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Trust FSB if
you purchase directly through the Fund), at the time a purchase order is
placed, that the purchase qualifies for the reduced charge under the Right of
Accumulation. Similar notification must be made in writing when an order is
placed by mail. The reduced sales charge will not be granted if: (1)
notification is not furnished at the time of the order; or (2) a review of the
records of Dean Witter Reynolds or other authorized dealer of Fund shares or
the Fund's transfer agent does not confirm your represented holdings.
LETTER OF INTENT. The schedule of reduced sales charges for larger purchases
also will be available to you if you enter into a written "letter of intent." A
letter of intent provides for the purchase of shares of any Series or shares of
Multi-Class Funds or
28
<PAGE>
shares of other FSC Funds within a thirteen-month period. The initial purchase
under a letter of intent must be at least 5% of the stated investment goal. To
determine the applicable sales charge reduction, you may also include: (1) the
cost of shares of other Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds which were previously
purchased at a price including a front-end sales charge during the 90-day
period prior to the Distributor receiving the letter of intent, and (2) the
cost of shares of other Funds you currently own acquired in exchange for shares
of Funds purchased during that period at a price including a front-end sales
charge. You can obtain a letter of intent by contacting your Morgan Stanley
Dean Witter Financial Advisor or other authorized financial representative, or
by calling (800) 869-NEWS. If you do not achieve the stated investment goal
within the thirteen-month period, you are required to pay the difference
between the sales charges otherwise applicable and sales charges actually paid.
SALES CHARGE WAIVERS. Your purchase of Fund shares is not subject to a sales
charge if your account qualifies under one of the following categories:
o Current or retired Directors/Trustees of the Morgan Stanley Dean Witter
Funds, such persons' spouses and children under the age of 21, and trust
accounts for which any of such individuals is a beneficiary.
o Current or retired directors, officers and employees of Morgan Stanley Dean
Witter & Co. and any of its subsidiaries, such persons' spouses and children
under the age of 21, and trust accounts for which any of such individuals is
a beneficiary.
PLAN OF DISTRIBUTION The Fund has adopted a Plan of Distribution in accordance
with Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940. The Plan allows a
Series to pay distribution fees of 0.15% for the distribution of these shares.
It also allows a Series to pay for services to shareholders. Because these fees
are paid out of a Series' assets on an ongoing basis, over time these fees will
increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other
types of sales charges.
We reserve the right to reject any order for the purchase of Series shares.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
HOW TO EXCHANGE SHARES
- ----------------------
PERMISSIBLE FUND EXCHANGES. You may exchange shares of a Series for shares of
any other Series, for shares of another FSC Fund (subject to a front-end sales
charge), for Class A shares of any continuously offered Multi-Class Fund, or
for shares of a No-Load Fund, a Money Market Fund or Short-Term U.S. Treasury
Trust, without the imposition of an exchange fee. See the inside back cover of
this Prospectus for each Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Fund's designation as a
Multi-Class Fund, No-Load Fund or Money Market Fund. If a Morgan Stanley Dean
Witter Fund is not listed, consult the inside back cover of that Fund's
Prospectus for its designation. For purposes of exchanges, shares of FSC Funds
are treated as Class A shares of a Multi-Class Fund.
Exchanges may be made after shares of a Series acquired by purchase have been
held for thirty days. There is no waiting period for exchanges of shares
acquired by exchange or dividend reinvestment. The current Prospectus for each
Fund describes its investment objectives, policies and investment minimums, and
should be read before investment.
29
<PAGE>
EXCHANGE PROCEDURES. You can process an exchange by contacting your Morgan
Stanley Dean Witter Financial Advisor or other authorized financial
representative. Otherwise, you must forward an exchange privilege authorization
form to a Series' transfer agent -- Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Trust FSB -- and
then write the transfer agent or call (800) 869-NEWS to place an exchange
order. You can obtain an exchange privilege authorization form by contacting
your Financial Advisor or other authorized financial representative, or by
calling (800) 869-NEWS. If you hold share certificates, no exchanges may be
processed until we have received all applicable share certificates.
An exchange to any Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Fund (except a Money Market Fund)
is made on the basis of the next calculated net asset values of the Funds
involved after the exchange instructions are accepted. When exchanging into a
Money Market Fund, a Series' shares are sold at their next calculated net asset
value and the Money Market Fund's shares are purchased at their net asset value
on the following business day.
The Fund may terminate or revise the exchange privilege upon required notice.
Certain services normally available to shareholders of Money Market Funds,
including the check writing privilege, are not available for Money Market Fund
shares you acquire in an exchange.
TELEPHONE EXCHANGES. For your protection when calling Morgan Stanley Dean
Witter Trust FSB, we will employ reasonable procedures to confirm that exchange
instructions communicated over the telephone are genuine. These procedures may
include requiring various forms of personal identification such as name,
mailing address, social security or other tax identification number. Telephone
instructions also may be recorded.
Telephone instructions will be accepted if received by the Fund's transfer
agent between 9:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m. Eastern time, on any day the New York
Stock Exchange is open for business. During periods of drastic economic or
market changes, it is possible that the telephone exchange procedures may be
difficult to implement, although this has not been the case with the Fund in
the past.
MARGIN ACCOUNTS. If you have pledged your Fund shares in a margin account,
contact your Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Financial Advisor or other authorized
financial representative regarding restrictions on the exchange of such shares.
TAX CONSIDERATIONS OF EXCHANGES. If you exchange shares of a Series for shares
of another Series or another Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Fund there are
important tax considerations. For tax purposes, the exchange out of a Series is
considered a sale of Series shares -- and the exchange into the other Fund is
considered a purchase. As a result, you may realize a capital gain or loss.
You should review the "Tax Consequences" section and consult your own tax
professional about the tax consequences of an exchange.
FREQUENT EXCHANGES. A pattern of frequent exchanges may result in a Series
limiting or prohibiting, at its discretion, additional purchases and/or
exchanges. The Series will notify you in advance of limiting your exchange
privileges.
For further information regarding exchange privileges, you should contact your
Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Financial Advisor or call (800) 869-NEWS.
30
<PAGE>
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
HOW TO SELL SHARES
- ------------------
You can sell some or all of your Series shares at any time. Your shares will be
sold at the next price calculated after we receive your order in proper form to
sell as described below.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
OPTIONS PROCEDURES
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C>
Contact Your To sell your shares, simply call your Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Financial
Financial Advisor Advisor or other authorized financial representative.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[GRAPHIC OMITTED] Payment will be sent to the address to which the account is registered or
deposited in your brokerage account.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Systematic If your investment in all of the Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Family of Funds has
Withdrawal Plan a total market value of at least $10,000, you may elect to withdraw amounts of
$25 or more, or in any whole percentage of a Fund's (or Series') balance
[GRAPHIC OMITTED] (provided the amount is at least $25), on a monthly, quarterly, semi-annual or
annual basis, from any Fund (or Series) with a balance of at least $1,000. Each
time you add a Fund to the plan, you must meet the plan requirements.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
To sign up for the Systematic Withdrawal Plan, contact your Morgan Stanley
Dean Witter Financial Advisor or call (800) 869-NEWS. You may terminate or
suspend your plan at any time. Please remember that withdrawals from the plan
are sales of shares, not Fund "distributions," and ultimately may exhaust your
account balance. The Fund may terminate or revise the plan at any time.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
By Letter You can also sell your shares by writing a "letter of instruction" that includes:
o your account number;
[GRAPHIC OMITTED] o the dollar amount or the number of shares you wish to sell; and
o o the signature of each owner as it appears on the account.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you are requesting payment to anyone other than the registered owner(s) or
that payment be sent to any address other than the address of the registered
owner(s) or pre-designated bank account, you will need a signature guarantee.
You can generally obtain a signature guarantee from an eligible guarantor
acceptable to Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Trust FSB. (You should contact
Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Trust FSB at (800) 869-NEWS for a determination
as to whether a particular institution is an eligible guarantor.) A notary public
cannot provide a signature guarantee. Additional documentation may be required
for shares held by a corporation, partnership, trustee or executor.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mail the letter to Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Trust FSB at P.O. Box 983, Jersey
City, New Jersey 07303. If you hold share certificates, you must return the
certificates, along with the letter and any required additional documentation.
----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A check will be mailed to the name(s) and address in which the account is
registered, or otherwise according to your instructions.
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
[sidebar open]
SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN
This plan allows you to withdraw money automatically from your Series account
at regular intervals. Contact your Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Financial Advisor
for more details.
[sidebar close]
PAYMENT FOR SOLD SHARES. After we receive your complete instructions to sell as
described above, a check will be mailed to you within seven days, although we
will attempt to make payment within one business day. Payment may also be sent
to your brokerage account.
Payment may be postponed or the right to sell your shares suspended, however,
under unusual circumstances. If you request to sell shares that were recently
purchased by check, payment of the sale proceeds may be delayed for the minimum
time needed to verify that the check has been honored (not more than fifteen
days from the time we receive the check).
REINSTATEMENT PRIVILEGE. If you sell Series shares and have not previously
exercised the reinstatement privilege, you may, within 35 days after the date
of sale, invest any portion of the proceeds in the same Series shares at their
net asset value.
31
<PAGE>
INVOLUNTARY SALES. The Fund reserves the right, on sixty days' notice, to sell
the shares of any shareholder (other than shares held in an IRA or 403(b)
Custodial Account) whose shares, due to sales by the shareholder, have a value
below $100, or in the case of an account opened through EasyInvestSM, if after
12 months the shareholder has invested less than $1,000 in the account.
However, before the Fund sells your shares in this manner, we will notify you
and allow you sixty days to make an additional investment in an amount that
will increase the value of your account to at least the required amount before
the sale is processed.
MARGIN ACCOUNTS. Certain restrictions may apply to Series shares pledged in
margin accounts with Dean Witter Reynolds or another authorized broker-dealer
of Series shares. If you hold Series shares in this manner, please contact your
Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Financial Advisor or other authorized financial
representative for more details.
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
DISTRIBUTIONS
- -------------
Each Series passes substantially all of its earnings from income and capital
gains along to its investors as "distributions." A Series earns interest from
fixed-income investments. These amounts are passed along to Series shareholders
as "income dividend distributions." A Series realizes capital gains whenever it
sells securities for a higher price than it paid for them. These amounts may be
passed along as "capital gain distributions."
[sidebar open]
TARGETED DIVIDENDS(SM)
You may select to have your Series distributions automatically invested in
another Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Fund that you own. Contact your Morgan
Stanley Dean Witter Financial Advisor for further information about this
service.
[sidebar close]
Normally, income dividends are declared on each day the New York Stock Exchange
is open for business and income dividends are distributed to shareholders
monthly. Any capital gains are distributed in December; if a second capital
gain distribution is necessary, it is usually paid in January of the following
year. Each Series, however, may retain and reinvest any long-term capital
gains. Each Series may at times make payments from sources other than income or
capital gains that represent a return of a portion of your investment.
Distributions are reinvested automatically in additional shares of a Series and
automatically credited to your account, unless you request in writing that all
distributions be paid in cash. If you elect the cash option, processing of your
dividend checks begins immediately following the monthly payment date, and the
Fund will mail a monthly dividend check to you normally during the first seven
days of the following month. No interest will accrue on uncashed checks. If you
wish to change how your distributions are paid, your request should be received
by the Fund's transfer agent, Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Trust FSB, at least
five business days prior to the record date of the distributions.
32
<PAGE>
[GRAPHIC OMITTED]
TAX CONSEQUENCES
- ----------------
As with any investment, you should consider how your Fund's investment in any
particular Fund Series will be taxed. The tax information in this Prospectus is
provided as general information. You should consult your own tax professional
about the tax consequences of an investment in a particular Series.
You need to be aware of the possible tax consequences when:
o A Series makes distributions; and
o You sell Series shares, including an exchange to another Morgan Stanley Dean
Witter Fund or Series.
TAXES ON DISTRIBUTIONS. Your income dividend distributions are normally exempt
from federal and the designated state's personal income taxes -- to the extent
they are derived from that state's municipal obligations or obligations of
governments of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands or Guam. (With respect to the
Minnesota Series, however, income dividend distributions are generally exempt
from Minnesota personal income tax only if they are derived from Minnesota
sources, such as obligations of the State of Minnesota and its municipalities.)
Income derived from other portfolio securities may be subject to federal, state
and/or local income taxes. (Florida, however, does not impose income tax on
individuals.)
Income derived from some municipal securities is subject to the federal
"alternative minimum tax." Certain tax-exempt securities, the proceeds of which
are used to finance private, for-profit organizations, are subject to this
special tax system that ensures that individuals pay at least some federal
taxes. Although interest on these securities is generally exempt from federal
income tax, some taxpayers who have many tax deductions or exemptions
nevertheless may have to pay tax on the income. (In addition, Minnesota imposes
an "alternative minimum tax" on individuals, estates and trusts that is based
on their federal alternative minimum taxable income and certain other items.)
If you borrow money to purchase shares of any Series, the interest on the
borrowed money is generally not deductible for personal income tax purposes.
Each Series may derive gains in part from municipal obligations the Series
purchased below their principal or face values. All, or a portion, of these
gains may be taxable to you as ordinary income rather than capital gains.
If a Series makes any capital gain distributions, those distributions will
normally be subject to federal and state income tax when they are paid, whether
you take them in cash or reinvest them in Series shares. (Ohio and New Jersey
Series capital gain distributions, however, are exempt from Ohio and New Jersey
state income tax, respectively.) Any short-term capital gain distributions are
taxable to you as ordinary income. Any long-term capital gain distributions are
taxable to you as long-term capital gains, no matter how long you have owned
shares in a Series. (Minnesota and Pennsylvania, however, do not distinguish
between short-term and long-term capital gains.)
PENNSYLVANIA SERIES ONLY. Shares in the Pennsylvania Series may be subject to
an "intangible personal property" tax. A Pennsylvania State statute purports to
authorize
33
<PAGE>
most counties to impose this tax, and some counties may levy the tax even
though it is under constitutional challenge in the courts. While the
Pennsylvania Series will invest predominately in securities that would not be
subject to the tax, the remaining fraction of the Pennsylvania Series'
investments would be subject to the intangible personal property tax.
Every January, you will be sent a statement (IRS Form 1099-DIV) showing the
distributions paid to you in the previous year. The statement provides full
information on your dividends and capital gains for tax purposes.
TAXES ON SALES. Your sale of Series shares normally is subject to federal and
state income tax and may result in a taxable gain or loss to you. (Gains from
the sale of New Jersey Series shares, however, are exempt from New Jersey
income tax.) A sale also may be subject to local income tax. Your exchange of
Series shares for shares of another Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Fund or Series
is treated for tax purposes like a sale of your original shares and a purchase
of your new shares. Thus, the exchange may, like a sale, result in a taxable
gain or loss to you and will give you a new tax basis for your new shares.
When you open your Fund account, you should provide your social security or tax
identification number on your investment application. By providing this
information, you will avoid being subject to a federal backup withholding tax
of 31% on taxable distributions and sale proceeds. Any withheld amount would be
sent to the IRS as an advance tax payment.
34
<PAGE>
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand each Series'
financial performance for the past 5 years. Certain information reflects
financial results for a single Series share. The total returns in the table
represent the rate an investor would have earned or lost on an investment in a
Series (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions).
This information has been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, whose report,
along with each Series' financial statements, is included in the annual report,
which is available upon request.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ARIZONA SERIES
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED NOVEMBER 30 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $10.64 $10.59 $10.65 $9.42 $10.72
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 0.51 0.53 0.54 0.54 0.55
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 0.17 0.05 (0.06) 1.23 (1.29)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -------
Total from investment operations 0.68 0.58 0.48 1.77 (0.74)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends to shareholders (0.51) (0.53) (0.54) (0.54) (0.55)
Distributions to shareholders -- -- -- -- (0.01)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -------
Total dividends and distributions (0.51) (0.53) (0.54) (0.54) (0.56)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period 10.81 10.64 10.59 10.65 9.42
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL RETURN+ 6.56% 5.64% 4.63% 19.21% (7.16)%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets end of period (000's) $41,655 $41,891 $ 46,248 $50,290 $47,628
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(AFTER EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.65(1)% 0.66(1)% 0.65(1)% 0.65(1)% 0.62%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.77% 5.04% 5.12% 5.33% 5.33%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(BEFORE EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.65(1)% 0.66(1)% 0.65(1)% 0.65(1)% 0.63%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.77% 5.04% 5.12% 5.33% 5.32%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate 30% 2% 9% 6% 11%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
+ Does not reflect the deduction of sales load. Calculated based on the net
asset value as of the last business day of the period.
(1) Does not reflect the effect of expense offset of 0.01%.
35
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CALIFORNIA SERIES
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED NOVEMBER 30 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $10.96 $10.81 $10.67 $9.38 $11.00
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 0.54 0.55 0.56 0.56 0.58
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 0.26 0.15 0.14 1.29 (1.48)
---------- -------- -------- ---------- --------
Total from investment operations 0.80 0.70 0.70 1.85 (0.90)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends to shareholders (0.54) (0.55) (0.56) (0.56) (0.58)
Distributions to shareholders -- -- -- -- (0.14)
---------- -------- -------- ---------- --------
Total dividends and distributions (0.54) (0.55) (0.56) (0.56) (0.72)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period 11.22 10.96 10.81 10.67 9.38
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL RETURN+ 7.58% 6.55% 6.76% 20.15% (8.65)%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets end of period (000's) $105,175 $104,209 $113,859 $117,769 $112,450
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(AFTER EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.59(1)% 0.59% 0.59% 0.60(1)% 0.58%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.87% 5.08% 5.28% 5.50% 5.59%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(BEFORE EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.59(1)% 0.59% 0.59% 0.60(1)% 0.59%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.87% 5.08% 5.28% 5.50% 5.58%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate 24% 17% 19% 5% 12%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
+ Does not reflect the deduction of sales load. Calculated based on the net
asset value as of the last business day of the period.
(1) Does not reflect the effect of expense offset of 0.01%.
36
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FLORIDA SERIES
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED NOVEMBER 30 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $10.97 $10.86 $10.88 $9.60 $10.93
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 0.52 0.54 0.55 0.56 0.56
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 0.28 0.11 (0.02) 1.28 (1.33)
---------- ------- --------- ------- -------
Total from investment operations 0.80 0.65 0.53 1.84 (0.77)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends to shareholders (0.52) (0.54) (0.55) (0.56) (0.56)
Distributions to shareholders -- -- -- -- --
---------- ------- --------- ------- -------
Total dividends and distributions (0.52) (0.54) (0.55) (0.56) (0.56)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period 11.25 10.97 10.86 10.88 9.60
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL RETURN+ 7.58% 6.10% 5.03% 19.54% (7.29)%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets end of period (000's) $61,262 $65,088 $70,542 $74,058 $71,458
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(AFTER EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.62(1)% 0.62% 0.62(1)% 0.63(1)% 0.61%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.69% 5.02% 5.13% 5.34% 5.34%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(BEFORE EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.62(1)% 0.62% 0.62(1)% 0.63(1)% 0.62%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.69% 5.02% 5.13% 5.34% 5.33%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate 26% 7% 25% 8% 3%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
+ Does not reflect the deduction of sales load. Calculated based on the net
asset value as of the last business day of the period.
(1) Does not reflect the effect of expense offset of 0.01%.
37
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MASSACHUSETTS SERIES
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED NOVEMBER 30 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $11.10 $10.92 $10.97 $9.60 $11.08
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 0.51 0.53 0.57 0.57 0.56
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 0.25 0.18 (0.03) 1.37 (1.38)
---------- ---------- ---------- ------- -------
Total from investment operations 0.76 0.71 0.54 1.94 (0.82)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends to shareholders (0.51) (0.53) (0.57) (0.57) (0.56)
Distributions to shareholders (0.02) -- (0.02) -- (0.10)
---------- ---------- ---------- ------- -------
Total dividends and distributions (0.53) (0.53) (0.59) (0.57) (0.66)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period 11.33 11.10 10.92 10.97 9.60
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL RETURN+ 7.03% 6.68 5.07 20.58% (7.71)%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets end of period (000's) $15,236 $14,561 $16,021 $16,954 $15,507
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(AFTER EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.83(1)% 0.79(1)% 0.50(1)% 0.50(1)% 0.50%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.55% 4.85% 5.23% 5.39% 5.35%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(BEFORE EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.83(1)% 0.81(1)% 0.82(1)% 0.79(1)% 0.78%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.55% 4.83% 4.91% 5.11% 5.07%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate 31% 10% 11% 7% 10%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
+ Does not reflect the deduction of sales load. Calculated based on the net
asset value as of the last business day of the period.
(1) Does not reflect the effect of expense offset of 0.01%.
38
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MICHIGAN SERIES
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED NOVEMBER 30 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $10.94 $10.78 $10.81 $9.46 $11.05
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 0.51 0.53 0.56 0.57 0.56
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 0.25 0.16 (0.03) 1.35 (1.41)
---------- ---------- ---------- -------- -------
Total from investment operations 0.76 0.69 0.53 1.92 (0.85)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends to shareholders (0.51) (0.53) (0.56) (0.57) (0.56)
Distributions to shareholders -- -- -- -- (0.18)
---------- ---------- ---------- -------- -------
Total dividends and distributions (0.51) (0.53) (0.56) (0.57) (0.74)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period 11.19 10.94 10.78 10.81 9.46
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL RETURN+ 7.23% 6.52% 5.09% 20.69% (8.07)%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets end of period (000's) $17,759 $19,512 $20,863 $21,673 $19,831
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(AFTER EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.78(1)% 0.72(1)% 0.50(1)% 0.50(1)% 0.50%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.63% 4.95% 5.27% 5.49% 5.44%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(BEFORE EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.78(1)% 0.74(1)% 0.76(1)% 0.77(1)% 0.75%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.63% 4.93% 5.01% 5.22% 5.19%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate 40% 3% 5% 22% 9%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
+ Does not reflect the deduction of sales load. Calculated based on the net
asset value as of the last business day of the period.
(1) Does not reflect the effect of expense offset of 0.01%.
39
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MINNESOTA SERIES
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED NOVEMBER 30 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $10.70 $ 10.60 $10.61 $9.28 $10.78
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 0.48 0.49 0.54 0.54 0.55
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 0.13 0.10 (0.01) 1.33 (1.42)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -------
Total from investment operations 0.61 0.59 0.53 1.87 (0.87)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends to shareholders (0.49) (0.49) (0.54) (0.54) (0.55)
Distributions to shareholders -- -- -- -- (0.08)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -------
Total dividends and distributions (0.49) (0.49) (0.54) (0.54) (0.63)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period 10.82 10.70 10.60 10.61 9.28
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL RETURN+ 5.77% 5.76% 5.21% 20.60% (8.42)%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets end of period (000's) $8,417 $8,742 $9,923 $11,230 $9,793
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(AFTER EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.99(1)% 0.94(1)% 0.50(1)% 0.50(1)% 0.50%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.49% 4.68% 5.21% 5.35% 5.41%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(BEFORE EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.99(1)% 0.97(1)% 0.96(1)% 0.98(1)% 0.91%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.49% 4.65% 4.75% 4.88% 5.00%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate 20% --% 5% 3% 14%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
+ Does not reflect the deduction of sales load. Calculated based on the net
asset value as of the last business day of the period.
(1) Does not reflect the effect of expense offset of 0.01%.
40
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NEW JERSEY SERIES
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED NOVEMBER 30 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $10.88 $10.70 $10.73 $9.47 $10.94
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 0.53 0.53 0.55 0.56 0.55
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 0.27 0.18 (0.03) 1.26 (1.39)
---------- ------- ---------- ---------- -------
Total from investment operations 0.80 0.71 0.52 1.82 (0.84)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends to shareholders (0.53) (0.53) (0.55) (0.56) (0.55)
Distributions to shareholders -- -- -- -- (0.08)
---------- ------- ---------- ---------- -------
Total dividends and distributions (0.53) (0.53) (0.55) (0.56) (0.63)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period 11.15 10.88 10.70 10.73 9.47
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL RETURN+ 7.49% 6.99% 4.93% 19.60% (7.96)%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets end of period (000's) $41,803 $41,520 $44,829 $47,889 $45,497
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(AFTER EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.67(1)% 0.66% 0.66(1)% 0.67(1)% 0.64%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.77% 5.02% 5.23% 5.42% 5.38%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(BEFORE EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.67(1)% 0.66% 0.66(1)% 0.67(1)% 0.65%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.77% 5.02% 5.23% 5.42% 5.37%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate 21% 14% 5% 14% 6%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
+ Does not reflect the deduction of sales load. Calculated based on the net
asset value as of the last business day of the period.
(1) Does not reflect the effect of expense offset of 0.01%.
41
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NEW YORK SERIES
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED NOVEMBER 30 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $11.11 $10.90 $10.88 $9.46 $11.03
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 0.52 0.53 0.56 0.56 0.57
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 0.30 0.21 0.02 1.42 (1.52)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -------
Total from investment operations 0.82 0.74 0.58 1.98 (0.95)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends to shareholders (0.52) (0.53) (0.56) (0.56) (0.57)
Distributions to shareholders -- -- -- -- (0.05)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -------
Total dividends and distributions (0.52) (0.53) (0.56) (0.56) (0.62)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period 11.41 11.11 10.90 10.88 9.46
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL RETURN+ 7.50% 7.06% 5.46% 21.40% (8.96)%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets end of period (000's) $12,013 $12,586 $14,020 $14,388 $14,522
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(AFTER EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.84(1)% 0.82(1)% 0.50(1)% 0.50(1)% 0.50%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.57% 4.84% 5.25% 5.43% 5.48%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(BEFORE EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.84(1)% 0.84(1)% 0.84(1)% 0.85(1)% 0.82%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.57% 4.82% 4.91% 5.09% 5.16%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate 33% 4% 22% 24% 14%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
+ Does not reflect the deduction of sales load. Calculated based on the net
asset value as of the last business day of the period.
(1) Does not reflect the effect of expense offset of 0.01%.
42
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
OHIO SERIES
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED NOVEMBER 30 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $10.94 $10.77 $10.80 $9.42 $10.97
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 0.52 0.53 0.55 0.56 0.55
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 0.21 0.17 (0.03) 1.38 (1.43)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -------
Total from investment operations 0.73 0.70 0.52 1.94 (0.88)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends to shareholders (0.52) (0.53) (0.55) (0.56) (0.55)
Distributions to shareholders -- -- -- -- (0.12)
---------- ---------- ---------- ---------- -------
Total dividends and distributions (0.52) (0.53) (0.55) (0.56) (0.67)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period 11.15 10.94 10.77 10.80 9.42
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL RETURN+ 6.84% 6.67% 5.04% 21.02% (8.34)%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets end of period (000's) $18,580 $18,476 $21,207 $23,104 $20,693
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(AFTER EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.75(1)% 0.73(1)% 0.50(1)% 0.50(1)% 0.50%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.70% 4.90% 5.23% 5.42% 5.31%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(BEFORE EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.75(1)% 0.74(1)% 0.75(1)% 0.77(1)% 0.71%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.70% 4.89% 4.98% 5.16% 5.10%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate 37% 5% 32% 19% 18%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
+ Does not reflect the deduction of sales load. Calculated based on the net
asset value as of the last business day of the period.
(1) Does not reflect the effect of expense offset of 0.01%.
43
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PENNSYLVANIA SERIES
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
YEARS ENDED NOVEMBER 30 1998 1997 1996 1995 1994
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET ASSET VALUE, BEGINNING OF PERIOD $10.97 $10.85 $10.85 $9.56 $11.01
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 0.53 0.54 0.55 0.55 0.56
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) 0.18 0.14 -- 1.29 (1.39)
------- ------- ---------- ---------- -------
Total from investment operations 0.71 0.68 0.55 1.84 (0.83)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dividends to shareholders (0.53) (0.54) (0.55) (0.55) (0.56)
Distributions to shareholders -- (0.02) -- -- (0.06)
------- ------- ---------- ---------- -------
Total dividends and distributions (0.53) (0.56) (0.55) (0.55) (0.62)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net asset value, end of period 11.15 10.97 10.85 10.85 9.56
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TOTAL RETURN+ 6.60% 6.53% 5.27% 19.65% (7.84)%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net assets end of period (000's) $53,808 $44,056 $47,055 $53,935 $47,557
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(AFTER EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.64% 0.66% 0.65(1)% 0.66(1)% 0.64%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.75% 5.01% 5.17% 5.29% 5.37%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET ASSETS
(BEFORE EXPENSES WERE ASSUMED)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Expenses 0.64% 0.66% 0.65(1)% 0.66(1)% 0.66%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Net investment income 4.75% 5.01% 5.17% 5.29% 5.35%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Portfolio turnover rate 26% 8% --% 8% 19%
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
+ Does not reflect the deduction of sales load. Calculated based on the net
asset value as of the last business day of the period.
(1) Does not reflect the effect of expense offset of 0.01%.
44
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER
FAMILY OF FUNDS
The Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Family of Funds
offers investors a wide range of investment choices.
Come on in and meet the family!
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GROWTH FUNDS
American Value Fund
Capital Growth Securities
Developing Growth Securities
Equity Fund
Growth Fund
Market Leader Trust
Mid-Cap Growth Fund
Special Value Fund
Value Fund
THEME FUNDS
Financial Services Trust
Health Sciences Trust
Information Fund
Natural Resource Development Securities
Precious Metals and Minerals Trust
GLOBAL/INTERNATIONAL FUNDS
Competitive Edge Fund - "Best Ideas" Portfolio
European Growth Fund
Fund of Funds - International Portfolio
Global Dividend Growth Securities
International SmallCap Fund
Japan Fund
Pacific Growth Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
GROWTH & INCOME FUNDS
Balanced Growth Fund
Balanced Income Fund
Convertible Securities Trust
Dividend Growth Securities
Fund of Funds - Domestic Portfolio
Income Builder Fund
Mid-Cap Dividend Growth Securities
S&P 500 Index Fund
S&P 500 Select Fund
Strategist Fund
Value-Added Market Series/Equity Portfolio
THEME FUNDS
Global Utilities Fund
Real Estate Fund
Utilities Fund
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
INCOME FUNDS
GOVERNMENT INCOME FUNDS
Federal Securities Trust
Short-Term U.S. Treasury Trust
U.S. Government Securities Trust
DIVERSIFIED INCOME FUNDS
Diversified Income Trust
CORPORATE INCOME FUNDS
High Yield Securities
Intermediate Income Securities
Short-Term Bond Fund(NL)
GLOBAL INCOME FUNDS
World Wide Income Trust
TAX-FREE INCOME FUNDS
California Tax-Free Income Fund
Hawaii Municipal Trust(FSC)
Limited Term Municipal Trust(NL)
Multi-State Municipal Series Trust(FSC)
New York Tax-Free Income Fund
Tax-Exempt Securities Trust
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
MONEY MARKET FUNDS
TAXABLE MONEY MARKET FUNDS
Liquid Asset Fund(MM)
U.S. Government Money Market Trust(MM)
TAX-FREE MONEY MARKET FUNDS
California Tax-Free Daily Income Trust(MM)
N.Y. Municipal Money Market Trust(MM)
Tax-Free Daily Income Trust(MM)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
NEW FUNDS
There may be Funds created after this Prospectus was published. Please consult
the inside front cover of a new Fund's Prospectus for its designation, e.g.,
Multi-Class Fund or Money Market Fund.
Unless otherwise noted, each listed Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Fund, except for
Short-Term U.S. Treasury Trust, is a Multi-Class Fund. A Multi-Class Fund is a
mutual fund offering multiple Classes of shares. The other types of Funds are:
NL -- No-Load (Mutual) Fund; MM -- Money Market Fund; FSC -- A mutual fund sold
with a front-end sales charge and a distribution (12b-1) fee.
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER
MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST
Additional information about each Series' investments is available in the
Fund's Annual and Semi-Annual Reports to Shareholders. In the Fund's Annual
Report, you will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment
strategies that significantly affected a Series' performance during the Fund's
last fiscal year. The Fund's Statement of Additional Information also provides
additional information about each Series, including investment and risk
information concerning municipal obligations of each relevant state. The
Statement of Additional Information is incorporated herein by reference
(legally is part of this Prospectus). For a free copy of any of these
documents, to request other information about the Fund, or to make shareholder
inquiries, please call:
(800) 869-NEWS (TOLL FREE)
You also may obtain information about the Fund by calling your Morgan Stanley
Dean Witter Financial Advisor or by visiting our Internet site at:
WWW.DEANWITTER.COM/FUNDS
[sidebar open]
TICKER SYMBOLS:
Arizona DWAZX
- ---------------------------
California DWCAX
- ---------------------------
Florida DWFLX
- ---------------------------
Massachusetts DWMAX
- ---------------------------
Michigan DWMIX
- ---------------------------
Minnesota DWMNX
- ---------------------------
New Jersey DWNJX
- ---------------------------
New York DWNYX
- ---------------------------
Ohio DWOHX
- ---------------------------
Pennsylvania DWPAX
- ---------------------------
[sidebar close]
Information about the Fund (including the Statement of Additional Information)
can be viewed and copied at the Securities and Exchange Commission's Public
Reference Room in Washington, DC. Information about the Reference Room's
operations may be obtained by calling the SEC at (800) SEC-0330. Reports and
other information about a Series are available on the SEC's Internet site at
(www.sec.gov), and copies of this information may be obtained, upon payment of
a duplicating fee, by writing the Public Reference Section of the SEC,
Washington, DC 20549-6009.
(INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT FILE NO. 811-6208)
<PAGE>
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
March 30, 1999
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER
MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL
SERIES TRUST
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
This Statement of Additional Information is not a Prospectus. The
Prospectus (dated March 30, 1999) for the Morgan Stanley Dean Witter
Multi-State Municipal Series Trust may be obtained without charge from the
Trust at its address or telephone numbers listed below or from Dean Witter
Reynolds at any of its branch offices. The Trust consists of 10 separate fund
portfolios referred to as Series: the Arizona Series, the California Series,
the Florida Series, the Massachusetts Series, the Michigan Series, the
Minnesota Series, the New Jersey Series, the New York Series, the Ohio Series
and the Pennsylvania Series.
Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Multi-State Municipal Series Trust
Two World Trade Center
New York, New York 10048
(800) 869-NEWS
<PAGE>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C> <C>
I. Fund History.............................................................. 4
II. Description of the Fund and the Investments and Risks of the Series....... 4
A. Classification....................................................... 4
B. Investment Strategies and Risks...................................... 4
C. Fund Policies/Investment Restrictions ............................... 43
III. Management of the Fund.................................................... 44
A. Board of Trustees.................................................... 44
B. Management Information............................................... 45
C. Compensation......................................................... 50
IV. Control Persons and Principal Holders of Securities....................... 52
V. Investment Management and Other Services.................................. 52
A. Investment Manager................................................... 52
B. Principal Underwriter................................................ 52
C. Services Provided by the Investment Manager and Fund Expenses Paid
by Third Parties..................................................... 53
D. Dealer Reallowances.................................................. 54
E. Rule 12b-1 Plan ..................................................... 54
F. Other Service Providers.............................................. 55
VI. Brokerage Allocation and Other Practices.................................. 56
A. Brokerage Transactions............................................... 56
B. Commissions.......................................................... 56
C. Brokerage Selection.................................................. 57
D. Directed Brokerage................................................... 57
E. Regular Broker-Dealers............................................... 57
VII. Capital Stock and Other Securities........................................ 58
VIII. Purchase, Redemption and Pricing of Shares................................ 58
A. Purchase/Redemption of Shares........................................ 58
B. Offering Price....................................................... 59
IX. Taxation of the Fund and Shareholders..................................... 59
X. Underwriters.............................................................. 67
XI. Calculation of Performance Data........................................... 67
XII. Financial Statements...................................................... 70
XIII. Appendix--Ratings of Investments.......................................... 115
</TABLE>
2
<PAGE>
GLOSSARY OF SELECTED DEFINED TERMS
The terms defined in this glossary are frequently used in this Statement
of Additional Information (other terms used occasionally are defined in the
text of the document).
"Custodian" -- The Bank of New York is the Custodian of the Fund's assets.
"Dean Witter Reynolds" -- Dean Witter Reynolds Inc., a wholly-owned
broker-dealer subsidiary of MSDW.
"Distributor" -- Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Distributors Inc., a
wholly-owned broker-dealer subsidiary of MSDW.
"Financial Advisors" -- Morgan Stanley Dean Witter authorized financial
services representatives.
"Fund" -- Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Multi-State Municipal Series Trust, a
registered open-end investment company.
"Investment Manager" -- Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Advisors Inc., a
wholly-owned investment advisor subsidiary of MSDW.
"Independent Trustees" -- Trustees who are not "interested persons" (as
defined by the Investment Company Act) of the Fund.
"Morgan Stanley & Co." -- Morgan Stanley & Co. Incorporated, a
wholly-owned broker-dealer subsidiary of MSDW.
"Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds" -- Registered investment companies (i)
for which the Investment Manager serves as the investment advisor and (ii)
that hold themselves out to investors as related companies for investment and
investor services.
"MSDW" -- Morgan Stanley Dean Witter & Co., a preeminent global financial
services firm.
"MSDW Services Company" -- Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Services Company
Inc., a wholly-owned fund services subsidiary of the Investment Manager.
"Series" -- Each of the following ten separate portfolios of the Fund: the
Arizona Series, the California Series, the Florida Series, the Massachusetts
Series, the Michigan Series, the Minnesota Series, the New Jersey Series, the
New York Series, the Ohio Series and the Pennsylvania Series.
"Transfer Agent" --Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Trust FSB, a wholly-owned
transfer agent subsidiary of MSDW.
"Trustees" -- The Board of Trustees of the Fund.
3
<PAGE>
I. FUND HISTORY
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Fund was organized as a Massachusetts business trust under the laws of
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on October 29, 1990, with the name Dean
Witter Multi-State Municipal Series Trust. Effective June 22, 1998, the
Fund's name was changed to Morgan Stanley Multi-State Municipal Series Trust.
II. DESCRIPTION OF THE FUND AND THE INVESTMENTS AND RISKS OF THE SERIES
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
A. CLASSIFICATION
The Fund is an open-end, non-diversified management investment company.
The Fund consists of 10 separate fund portfolios referred to as "Series:" the
Arizona Series, the California Series, the Florida Series, the Massachusetts
Series, the Michigan Series, the Minnesota Series, the New Jersey Series, the
New York Series, the Ohio Series and the Pennsylvania Series. The investment
objective of each Series is to provide a high a level of current income
exempt from both federal and the designated state income tax, consistent with
the preservation of capital.
B. INVESTMENT STRATEGIES AND RISKS
The following discussion of the Series' investment strategies and risks
should be read with the sections of the Fund's Prospectus titled "Principal
Investment Strategies," "Principal Risks," "Additional Investment Strategy
Information," and "Additional Risk Information."
TAXABLE SECURITIES. Each Series may invest up to 20% of its total assets
in taxable money market instruments, tax-exempt securities of other states
and municipalities and futures and options. Investments in taxable money
market instruments would generally be made under any one of the following
circumstances: (a) pending investment of proceeds of the sale of each Series'
shares or of portfolio securities, (b) pending settlement of purchases of
portfolio securities and (c) to maintain liquidity for the purpose of meeting
anticipated redemptions. Only those tax-exempt securities of other states
which satisfy the standards established for the tax-exempt securities of the
State Series may be purchased by each Series.
The types of taxable money market instruments in which each Series may
invest are limited to the following short-term fixed-income securities
(maturing in one year or less from the time of purchase): (i) obligations of
the United States Government, its agencies, instrumentalities or authorities;
(ii) commercial paper rated P-1 by Moody's Investors Services, Inc.
("Moody's") or A-1 by Standard & Poor's Corporation ("S&P"); (iii)
certificates of deposit of domestic banks with assets of $1 billion or more;
and (iv) repurchase agreements with respect to portfolio securities.
VARIABLE RATE AND FLOATING RATE OBLIGATIONS. Each Series may invest in
Municipal Bonds and Municipal Notes ("Municipal Obligations") of the type
called variable rate. The interest rate payable on a variable rate obligation
is adjusted either at predesignated periodic intervals or whenever there is a
change in the market rate of interest on which the interest rate payable is
based. Other features may include the right whereby a Series may demand
prepayment of the principal amount of the obligation prior to its stated
maturity (a "demand feature") and the right of the issuer to prepay the
principal amount prior to maturity. The principal benefit of a variable rate
obligation is that the interest rate adjustment minimizes changes in the
market value of the obligation. The principal benefit to a Series of
purchasing obligations with a demand feature is that liquidity, and the
ability of the Series to obtain repayment of the full principal amount of an
obligation prior to maturity, is enhanced.
INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT AND POLLUTION CONTROL REVENUE BONDS. Each Series
may invest in industrial development and pollution control bonds (two kinds
of tax-exempt Municipal Bonds) whether or not the users of facilities
financed by such bonds are in the same industry. In cases where such users
are in the same industry, there may be additional risk in the event of an
economic downturn in such industry, which may result generally in a lowered
need for such facilities and a lowered ability of such users to pay for the
use of such facilities.
4
<PAGE>
LENDING OF PORTFOLIO SECURITIES. Each Series may lend portfolio securities
to brokers, dealers and financial institutions provided that cash equal to at
least 100% of the market value of the securities loaned is deposited by the
borrower with the Series and is maintained each business day in a segregated
account pursuant to applicable regulations. The collateral value of the
loaned securities will be marked-to-market daily. While such securities are
on loan, the borrower will pay the Series any income accruing thereon, and
the Series may invest the cash collateral in portfolio securities, thereby
earning additional income. Each Series will not lend more than 25% of the
value of the total assets of any Series. Loans will be subject to termination
by a Series in the normal settlement time, currently five business days after
notice, or by the borrower on one day's notice. Borrowed securities must be
returned when the loan is terminated. Any gain or loss in the market price of
the borrowed securities which occurs during the term of the loan inures to a
Series and its shareholders. A Series may pay reasonable finders, borrowers,
administrative, and custodial fees in connection with a loan. The
creditworthiness of firms to which a Series lends its portfolio securities
will be monitored on an ongoing basis.
FUTURES CONTRACTS AND OPTIONS ON FUTURES. Each Series may invest in
financial futures contracts ("futures contracts") and related options
thereon. These futures contracts and related options thereon will be used
only as a hedge against anticipated interest rate changes. A futures contract
sale creates an obligation by a Series, as seller, to deliver the specific
type of instrument called for in the contract at a specified future time for
a specified price. A futures contract purchase would create an obligation by
the Series, as purchaser, to take delivery of the specific type of financial
instrument at a specified future time at a specified price. The specific
securities delivered or taken, respectively, at settlement date, would not be
determined until on or near that date. The determination would be in
accordance with the rules of the exchange on which the futures contract sale
or purchase was effected.
Although the terms of futures contracts specify actual delivery or receipt
of securities, in most instances the contracts are closed out before the
settlement date without the making or taking of delivery of the securities.
Closing out of a futures contract is usually effected by entering into an
offsetting transaction. An offsetting transaction for a futures contract sale
is effected by a Series entering into a futures contract purchase for the
same aggregate amount of the specific type of financial instrument at the
same delivery date. If the price in the sale exceeds the price in the
offsetting purchase, the Series is immediately paid the difference and thus
realizes a gain. If the offsetting purchase price exceeds the sale price, the
Series pays the difference and realizes a loss. Similarly, the closing out of
a futures contract purchase is effected by a Series entering into a futures
contract sale. If the offsetting sale price exceeds the purchase price the
Series realizes a gain, and if the offsetting sale price is less than the
purchase price the Series realizes a loss.
Unlike a futures contract, which requires the parties to buy and sell a
security on a set date, an option on a futures contract entitles its holder
to decide on or before a future date whether to enter into such a contract (a
long position in the case of a call option and a short position in the case
of a put option). If the holder decides not to enter into the contract, the
premium paid for the contract is lost. Since the value of the option is fixed
at the point of sale, there are no daily payments of cash to reflect the
change in the value of the underlying contract, as discussed below for
futures contracts. The value of the option changes is reflected in the net
asset value of the particular Series holding the options.
Each Series is required to maintain margin deposits with brokerage firms
through which it effects futures contracts and options thereon. The initial
margin requirements vary according to the type of the underlying security. In
addition, due to current industry practice, daily variations in gains and
losses on open contracts are required to be reflected in cash in the form of
variation margin payments. A Series may be required to make additional margin
payments during the term of the contract.
Currently, futures contracts can be purchased on debt securities such as
U.S. Treasury Bills and Bonds, U.S. Treasury Notes with maturities between 6
1/2 and 10 years, Certificates of the Government National Mortgage
Association, Bank Certificates of Deposit and on a municipal bond index. Each
Series may invest in interest rate futures contracts covering these types of
financial instruments as well as in new types of contracts that become
available in the future.
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Financial futures contracts are traded in an auction environment on the
floors of several Exchanges--principally, the Chicago Board of Trade, the
Chicago Mercantile Exchange and the New York Futures Exchange. Each Exchange
guarantees performance under contract provisions through a clearing
corporation, a nonprofit organization managed by the Exchange membership
which is also responsible for handling daily accounting of deposits or
withdrawals of margin. A risk in employing futures contracts to protect
against the price volatility of portfolio securities is that the prices of
securities subject to futures contracts may correlate imperfectly with the
behavior of the cash prices of each Series portfolio securities. The
correlation may be distorted by the fact that the futures market is dominated
by short-term traders seeking to profit from the difference between a
contract or security price objective and their cost of borrowed funds. This
would reduce the value of futures contracts for hedging purposes over a short
time period. The correlation may be further distorted since the futures
contracts that are being used to hedge are not based on municipal
obligations.
Another risk is that a Series' Investment Manager could be incorrect in
its expectations as to the direction or extent of various interest rate
movements or the time span within which the movements take place. For
example, if a Series sold futures contracts for the sale of securities in
anticipation of an increase in interest rates, and then interest rates went
down instead, causing bond prices to rise, that Series would lose money on
the sale. Put and call options on financial futures have characteristics
similar to Exchange traded options.
In addition to the risks associated in investing in options on securities,
there are particular risks associated with investing in options on futures.
In particular, the ability to establish and close out positions on such
options will be subject to the development and maintenance of a liquid
secondary market. It is not certain that such a market will develop.
A Series may not enter into futures contracts or related options thereon
if, immediately thereafter, the amount committed to margin plus the amount
paid for option premiums exceeds 5% of the value of that Series' total
assets. In instances involving the purchase of futures contracts by a Series,
an amount equal to the market value of the futures contract will be deposited
in a segregated account of cash and cash equivalents or other liquid
portfolio securities to collateralize the position and thereby ensure that
the use of such futures is unleveraged. A Series may not purchase or sell
futures contracts or related options if, immediately thereafter, more than
one-third of the net assets of that Series would be hedged.
Municipal Bond Index Futures. Each Series may utilize municipal bond index
futures contracts for hedging purposes. The strategies in employing such
contracts will be similar to that discussed above with respect to financial
futures and options thereon. A municipal bond index is a method of reflecting
in a single number the market value of many different municipal bonds and is
designed to be representative of the municipal bond market generally. The
index fluctuates in response to changes in the market values of the bonds
included within the index. Unlike futures contracts on particular financial
instruments, transactions in futures on a municipal bond index will be
settled in cash, if held until the close of trading in the contract. However,
like any other futures contract, a position in the contract may be closed out
by a purchase or sale of an offsetting contract for the same delivery month
prior to expiration of the contract.
Options. Each Series may purchase or sell (write) options on debt
securities as a means of achieving additional return or hedging the value of
a Series' portfolio. A Series will only buy options listed on national
securities exchanges. A Series will not purchase options if, as a result, the
aggregate cost of all outstanding options exceeds 10% of the Series total
assets.
Presently there are no options on tax-exempt securities traded on national
securities exchanges. Each Series will not invest in options on debt
securities in the coming year or until such time as they become available on
national securities exchanges.
A call option is a contract that gives the holder of the option the right
to buy from the writer of the call option, in return for a premium, the
security underlying the option at a specified exercise price at any time
during the term of the option. The writer of the call option has the
obligation, upon exercise of the option, to deliver the underlying security
upon payment of the exercise price during the option period. A
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put option is a contract that gives the holder of the option the right to
sell to the writer, in return for a premium, the underlying security at a
specified price during the term of the option. The writer of the put has the
obligation to buy the underlying security upon exercise, at the exercise
price during the option period.
A Series will only write covered call or covered put options listed on
national exchanges. A Series may not write covered options in an amount
exceeding 20% of the value of the total assets of that Series. A call option
is "covered" if a Series owns the underlying security covered by the call or
has an absolute and immediate right to acquire that security or futures
contract without additional cash consideration (or for additional cash
consideration held in a segregated account by its custodian) upon conversion
or exchange of other securities held in its portfolio. A call option is also
covered if a Series holds a call on the same security or futures contract as
the call written, where the exercise price of the call held is (i) equal to
or less than the exercise price of the call written or (ii) greater than the
exercise price of the call written if the difference is maintained by a
Series in cash, Treasury bills or other liquid portfolio securities in a
segregated account with its custodian. A put option is "covered" if a Series
maintains cash, Treasury bills or other liquid portfolio securities with a
value equal to the exercise price in a segregated account with its custodian,
or else holds a put on the same security or futures contract as the put
written where the exercise price of the put held is equal to or greater than
the exercise price of the put written.
If a Series has written an option, it may terminate its obligation by
effecting a closing purchase transaction. This is accomplished by purchasing
an option of the same series as the option previously written. However, once
the Series has been assigned an exercise notice, the Series will be unable to
effect a closing purchase transaction. Similarly, if the Series is the holder
of an option, it may liquidate its position by effecting a closing sale
transaction. This is accomplished by selling an option of the same series as
the option previously purchased. There can be no assurance that either a
closing purchase or sale transaction on behalf of a Series can be effected
when the Series so desires.
A Series will realize a profit from a closing transaction if the price of
the transaction is less than the premium received from writing the option or
is more than the premium paid to purchase the option; a Series will realize a
loss from a closing transaction if the price of the transaction is more than
the premium received from writing the option or is less than the premium paid
to purchase the option. Since call option prices generally reflect increases
in the price of the underlying security, any loss resulting from the purchase
of a call option may also be wholly or partially offset by unrealized
appreciation of the underlying security. If a put option written by a Series
is exercised, the Series may incur a loss equal to the difference between the
exercise price of the option and the sum of the sale price of the underlying
security plus the premiums received from the sale of the option. Other
principal factors affecting the market value of a put or a call option
include supply and demand, interest rates, the current market price and price
volatility of the underlying security and the time remaining until the
expiration date.
An option position may be closed out only on an exchange which provides a
secondary market for an option of the same series. Although a Series will
generally purchase or write only those options for which there appears to be
an active secondary market, there is no assurance that a liquid secondary
market on an exchange will exist for any particular option. In such event, it
might not be possible to effect closing transactions in particular options,
so that the Series would have to exercise its options in order to realize any
profit and would incur brokerage commissions upon the exercise of call
options and upon the subsequent disposition of underlying securities for the
exercise of put options. If a Series as a covered call option writer is
unable to effect a closing purchase transaction in a secondary market, it
will not be able to sell the underlying security until the option expires or
it delivers the underlying security upon exercise.
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS. Each Series may invest in repurchase agreements.
When cash may be available for only a few days, it may be invested by the
Series in repurchase agreements until such time as it may otherwise be
invested or used for payments of obligations. These agreements, which may be
viewed as a type of secured lending by the Series, typically involve the
acquisition by a Series of debt securities from a selling financial
institution such as a bank, savings and loan association or broker-dealer.
The agreement provides that the Series sell back to the institution, and that
the institution
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will repurchase, the underlying security serving as collateral at a specified
price and at a fixed time in the future, usually not more than seven days
from the date of purchase. The collateral will be marked-to-market daily to
determine that the value of the collateral, as specified in the agreement,
does not decrease below the purchase price plus accrued interest. If such
decrease occurs, additional collateral will be requested and, when received,
added to the account to maintain full collateralization. The Series will
accrue interest from the institution until the time when the repurchase is to
occur. Although this date is deemed by a Series to be the maturity date of a
repurchase agreement, the maturities of securities subject to repurchase
agreements are not subject to any limits.
While repurchase agreements involve certain risks not associated with
direct investments in debt securities, each Series follows procedures
designed to minimize such risks. These procedures include effecting
repurchase transactions only with large, well-capitalized and
well-established financial institutions whose financial condition will be
continually monitored by the Investment Manager subject to procedures
established by the Trustees. In addition, as described above, the value of
the collateral underlying the repurchase agreement will be at least equal to
the repurchase price, including any accrued interest earned on the repurchase
agreement. In the event of a default or bankruptcy by a selling financial
institution, a Series will seek to liquidate such collateral. However, the
exercising of the Series' right to liquidate such collateral could involve
certain costs or delays and, to the extent that proceeds from any sale upon a
default of the obligation to repurchase were less than the repurchase price,
the Series could suffer a loss. It is the current policy of each Series not
to invest in repurchase agreements that do not mature within seven days if
any such investment, together with any other illiquid asset held by that
Series, amount to more than 10% of the total assets of that Series.
WHEN-ISSUED AND DELAYED DELIVERY SECURITIES. Each Series may purchase
tax-exempt securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis. When these
transactions are negotiated, the price is fixed at the time of the
commitment, but delivery and payment can take place a month or more after the
date of commitment. While a Series will only purchase securities on a
when-issued, delayed delivery with the intention of acquiring the securities,
the Series may sell the securities before the settlement date, if it is
deemed advisable. The securities so purchased or sold are subject to market
fluctuation and no interest or dividends accrue to the purchaser prior to the
settlement date.
At the time a Series makes the commitment to purchase or sell securities
on a when-issued, delayed delivery, it will record the transaction and
thereafter reflect the value, each day, of such security purchased, or if a
sale, the proceeds to be received, in determining its net asset value. At the
time of delivery of the securities, their value may be more or less than the
purchase or sale price. An increase in the percentage of a Series' assets
committed to the purchase of securities on a when-issued, delayed delivery
may increase the volatility of its net asset value. Each Series will also
establish a segregated account with its custodian bank in which it will
continually maintain cash or cash equivalents or other liquid portfolio
securities equal in value to commitments to purchase securities on a
when-issued or delayed delivery basis.
YEAR 2000. The investment management services provided to the Fund and
each Series by the Investment Manager and the services provided to
shareholders by the Distributor and the Transfer Agent depend on the smooth
functioning of their computer systems. Many computer software systems in use
today cannot recognize the year 2000, but revert to 1900 or some other date,
due to the manner in which dates were encoded and calculated. That failure
could have a negative impact on the handling of securities trades, pricing
and account services. The Investment Manager, the Distributor and the
Transfer Agent have been actively working on necessary changes to their own
computer systems to prepare for the year 2000 and expect that their systems
will be adapted before that date, but there can be no assurance that they
will be successful, or that interaction with other non-complying computer
systems will not impair their services at that time.
In addition, it is possible that the markets for securities in which a
Series invests may be detrimentally affected by computer failures throughout
the financial services industry beginning January 1, 2000. Improperly
functioning trading systems may result in settlement problems and liquidity
issues. In addition, corporate and governmental data processing errors may
result in production
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problems for individual companies and overall economic uncertainties.
Earnings of individual issuers will be affected by remediation costs, which
may be substantial and may be reported inconsistently in U.S. and foreign
financial statements. Accordingly, the Fund's investments may be adversely
affected.
THE ARIZONA SERIES -- SPECIAL INVESTMENT CONSIDERATIONS. The Arizona
Series will invest principally in securities of political subdivisions and
other issuers of the State of Arizona the interest on which is exempt from
federal and Arizona income taxes. As a result, the ability of such Arizona
issuers to meet their obligations with respect to such securities generally
will be influenced by the political, economic and regulatory developments
affecting the state of Arizona and the particular revenue streams supporting
such issuers' obligations. If any of such political subdivisions are unable
to meet their financial obligations, the income derived by the Arizona
Series, the ability to preserve or realize appreciation of the Arizona
Series' capital, and the liquidity of the Arizona Series could be adversely
affected. The following summary respecting the State of Arizona is only
general in nature and does not purport to be a description of the investment
considerations and factors which may have an effect on the obligations of a
particular issuer in which the Arizona Series may invest.
Arizona's economy continues on a path of strong growth, although
economists at Arizona State University expect the growth rate to slow. There
are, however, no signs of any serious imbalances. Arizona's economy is among
the fastest growing in the country. The state's population increased by more
than 100,000 each year during the 7-year period from 1991 to 1998. During
1998, Arizona's population was estimated at approximately 4.7 million. As a
result, homebuilding and commercial construction are extremely strong,
although construction is expected to slow somewhat in 1999. This growth in
population will require corresponding increases in revenues of Arizona
issuers to meet increased demands for infrastructure development and various
services, and the performance of Arizona's economy will be critical to
providing such increased revenues.
The state's principal economic sectors include services, construction,
manufacturing dominated by electrical, transportation and military equipment,
high technology, government, tourism and the military. State unemployment
rates have remained generally comparable to the national average in recent
years, while the Arizona economy has generally performed above the national
average in recent years. Arizona has held a steady position among the top
five states in employment growth since May 1993. In 1998, the Arizona rate of
non-agricultural job creation ranked first in the nation. Furthermore, in
1998, Arizona's personal income increased by an estimated 7.4 percent.
The State of Arizona has no statewide program for addressing the potential
problems posed by the inability of certain computer systems to properly
recognize and process data-sensitive information relative to the Year 2000
and beyond. The State of Arizona and a number of the political subdivisions
within Arizona have implemented specific programs to address such problems.
However, such programs are on a subdivision-by-subdivision basis and vary
widely in both scope and coverage. There can be no assurance that such
programs being undertaken by state or local government agencies or other
political subdivisions will be sufficient to avoid adverse impact upon the
functioning or financial condition of such agencies or subdivisions. Further,
there can be no assurance that political subdivisions which have not
implemented such programs will do so or that, if implemented, their programs
will be sufficient to avoid such adverse impacts.
Arizona is required by law to maintain a balanced budget. To achieve this
objective, Arizona has, in the past, utilized a combination of spending
reductions and tax increases. The condition of the national economy will
continue to be a significant factor influencing Arizona's budget during the
upcoming fiscal year.
Arizona's constitution limits the amount of debt payable from general tax
revenues that may be contracted by the State to $350,000. However, certain
other issuers have the statutory power to issue obligations payable from
other sources of revenue which affect the whole or large portions of the
State. For example, the Transportation Board of the State of Arizona
Department of Transportation may issue obligations for highways which are
paid from revenues generated from, among other sources, gasoline taxes.
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Arizona's constitution also restricts debt payable from general tax
revenues of certain other issuers of the State. Most importantly, no county,
city, town, school district, or other municipal corporation of the State may
for any purpose become indebted in any manner in an amount exceeding 6% of
the taxable property in such county, city, town, school district, or other
municipal corporation without the assent of a majority of the qualified
electors thereof voting at an election provided by law to be held for that
purpose; provided, however, that (i) under no circumstances may any county or
school district of the State become indebted in an amount exceeding 15% (or
30% in the case of a unified school district) of such taxable property and
(ii) any incorporated city or town of the State with such assent may be
allowed to become indebted in up to a 20% additional amount for (a) supplying
such city or town with water, artificial light, or sewers when the works for
supplying such water, light, or sewers are or shall be owned and controlled
by the municipality and (b) the acquisition and development by such city or
town of land or interests therein for open space preserves, parks,
playgrounds and recreational facilities. Annual property tax levies for the
payment of such debt, which pursuant to applicable statutes may only be
issued for limited purposes, are unlimited as to rate or amount. Other
obligations may be issued by counties, cities, towns, school districts and
other municipal corporations, sometimes without an election. Such obligations
are payable from, among other revenue sources, project revenues, special
assessments, annual budget appropriations and excise, transaction privilege
and use taxes.
Irrigation, power, electrical, agricultural improvement, drainage, flood
control and tax levying public improvement districts are exempt specifically
from the above-noted restrictions of the constitution and may issue
obligations for limited purposes, payable from a variety of revenue sources.
For example, Salt River Project Agricultural & Improvement District, an
agricultural improvement district that operates the Salt River Project (a
federal reclamation project and an electric system which generates,
purchases, and distributes electric power to residential, commercial,
industrial, and agricultural power users in a 2,900 square-mile service area
around Phoenix), may issue obligations payable from a number of sources.
THE CALIFORNIA SERIES -- SPECIAL INVESTMENT CONSIDERATIONS. The following
describes certain risks with respect to municipal obligations of California
issuers in which the California Series may invest. This summarized
information is based on information drawn from official statements and
prospectuses relating to securities offerings of the State of California and
other public documents available as of the date of this Statement of
Additional Information. Although the Investment Manager has not independently
verified such information, it has no reason to believe that such information
is not correct in all material respects.
The California Series will be affected by any political, economic or
regulatory developments affecting the ability of California issuers to pay
interest or repay principal. Provisions of the California Constitution and
State statutes which limit the taxing and spending authority of California
governmental entities may impair the ability of California issuers to
maintain debt service on their obligations. Future California political and
economic developments, constitutional amendments, legislative measures,
executive orders, administrative regulations, litigation and voter
initiatives could have an adverse effect on the debt obligations of
California issuers.
Certain debt obligations held by the California Series may be obligations
of issuers which rely in whole or in substantial part on California state
revenues for the continuance of their operations and payment of their
obligations. Whether and to what extent the California Legislature will
continue to appropriate a portion of the State's General Fund to counties,
cities and their various entities, is not entirely certain. To the extent
local entities do not receive money from the State to pay for their
operations and services, their ability to pay debt service on obligations
held by the California Series may be impaired.
In 1978, Proposition 13, an amendment to the California Constitution, was
approved, limiting real property valuation for property tax purposes and the
power of local governments to increase real property tax revenues and
revenues from other sources. Legislation adopted after Proposition 13
provided for assistance to local governments, including the redistribution of
the then-existing surplus in the General Fund, reallocation of revenues to
local governments, and assumption by the State of certain
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local government obligations. However, more recent legislation reduced such
state assistance. There can be no assurance that any particular level of
State aid to local governments will be maintained in future years. In
Nordlinger v. Hahn, the United States Supreme Court upheld certain provisions
of Proposition 13 against claims that it violated the equal protection clause
of the Constitution.
In 1979, an amendment was passed adding Article XIIIB to the State
Constitution. As amended in 1990, Article XIIIB imposes an "appropriations
limit" on the spending authority of the State and local government entities.
In general, the appropriations limit is based on certain 1978-1979
expenditures, adjusted annually to reflect changes in the cost of living,
population and certain services provided by State and local government
entities. "Appropriations limit" does not include appropriations for
qualified capital outlay projects, certain increases in
transportation-related taxes, and certain emergency appropriations.
If a government entity raises revenues beyond its "appropriations limit"
in any year, a portion of the excess which cannot be appropriated within the
following year's limit must be returned to the entity's taxpayers within two
subsequent fiscal years, generally by a tax credit, refund or temporary
suspension of tax rates or fee schedules. "Debt service" is excluded from
these limitations, and is defined as "appropriations required to pay the cost
of interest and redemption charges, including the funding of any reserve or
sinking fund required in connection therewith, on indebtedness existing or
legally authorized as of January 1, 1979 or on bonded indebtedness thereafter
approved [by the voters]." In addition, Article XIIIB requires the State
Legislature to establish a prudent State reserve, and to require the transfer
of 50% of excess revenue to the State School Fund; any amounts allocated to
the State School Fund will increase the appropriations limit.
In June 1982, the voters of California passed two initiative measures to
repeal the California gift and inheritance tax laws and to enact, in lieu
thereof, California death taxes. California voters also passed an initiative
measure to increase, for taxable years commencing on or after January 1,
1982, the amount to account for the effects of inflation. Decreases in State
and local revenues in future fiscal years as a consequence of these
initiatives may result in reductions in allocations of state revenues to
California issuers or in the ability of California issuers to pay their
obligations.
In 1986, California voters approved an initiative statute known as
Proposition 62. This initiative (i) requires that any tax for general
governmental purposes imposed by local governments be approved by resolution
or ordinance adopted by a two-thirds vote of the governmental entity's
legislative body and by a majority vote of the electorate of the governmental
entity, (ii) requires that any special tax (defined as tax levied for other
than general governmental purposes) imposed by a local governmental entity be
approved by a two-thirds vote of the voters within that jurisdiction, (iii)
restricts the use of revenues from a special tax to the purposes or for the
service for which the special tax was imposed, (iv) prohibits the imposition
of ad valorem taxes on real property by local governmental entities except as
permitted by the Proposition 13 amendment, (v) prohibits the imposition of
transaction taxes and sales taxes on the sale of real property by local
governments, (vi) requires that any tax imposed by a local government on or
after August 1, 1985, be ratified by a majority vote of the electorate within
two years of the adoption of the initiative or be terminated by November 15,
1989, (vii) requires that, in the event a local government fails to comply
with the provisions of this measure, a reduction of the amount of property
tax revenue allocated to such local government occurs in an amount equal to
the revenues received by such entity attributable to the tax levied in
violation of the initiative, and (viii) permits these provisions to be
amended exclusively by the voters of the State of California.
In September 1995, the California Supreme Court upheld the
constitutionality of Proposition 62, creating uncertainty as to the legality
of certain local taxes enacted by non-charter cities in California without
voter approval. It is not possible to predict the impact of the decision.
In November 1996, California voters approved Proposition 218. The
initiative applied the provisions of Proposition 62 to all entities,
including charter cities. It requires that all taxes for general purposes
obtain a simple majority popular vote and that taxes for special purposes
obtain a two-thirds majority vote. Prior to the effectiveness of Proposition
218, charter cities could levy certain taxes such as transient occupancy
taxes and utility user's taxes without a popular vote. Proposition 218 will
also limit the
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authority of local governments to impose property-related assessments, fees
and charges, requiring that such assessments be limited to the special
benefit conferred and prohibiting their use for general governmental
services. Proposition 218 also allows voters to use their initiative power to
reduce or repeal previously-authorized taxes, assessments, fees and charges.
In 1988, State voters approved Proposition 87, which amended Article XVI
of the State Constitution to authorize the State Legislature to prohibit
redevelopment agencies from receiving any property tax revenues raised by
increased property taxes to repay bonded indebtedness of local government
which is not approved by voters on or before January 1, 1989. It is not
possible to predict whether the State Legislature will enact such a
prohibition, nor is it possible to predict the impact of Proposition 87 on
redevelopment agencies and their ability to make payments on outstanding debt
obligations.
In November 1988, California voters approved Proposition 98. This
initiative requires that (i) revenues in excess of amounts permitted to be
spent and which would otherwise be returned by revision of tax rates or fee
schedules, be transferred and allocated (up to a maximum of 40%) to the State
School Fund and be expended solely for purposes of instructional improvement
and accountability. No such transfer or allocation of funds will be required
if certain designated state officials determine that annual student
expenditures and class size meet certain criteria as set forth in Proposition
98. Any funds allocated to the State School Fund shall cause the
appropriation limits to be annually increased for any such allocation made in
the prior year. Proposition 98 also requires the State of California to
provide a minimum level of funding for public schools and community colleges.
The initiative permits the enactment of legislation, by a two-thirds vote, to
suspend the minimum funding requirement for one year.
Certain tax-exempt securities in which the California Series may invest
may be obligations payable solely from the revenues of specific institutions,
or may be secured by specific properties, which are subject to provisions of
California law which could adversely affect the holders of such obligations.
For example, the revenues of California health care institutions may be
subject to state laws, and California law limits the remedies of a creditor
secured by a mortgage or deed of trust on real property.
California is the most populous state in the nation with a total
population estimated at 32.9 million. The State now comprises 12.3% of the
nation's population and 12.5% of its total personal income. Its economy is
broad and diversified with major concentrations in high technology research
and manufacturing, aerospace and defense-related manufacturing, trade,
entertainment, real estate, and financial services. After experiencing strong
growth throughout much of the 1980s, from 1990-1993 the State suffered
through a severe recession, the worst since the 1930's, heavily influenced by
large cutbacks in defense/aerospace industries and military base closures and
a major drop in real estate construction. California's economy has been
recovering and growing steadily stronger since the start of 1994, to the
point where the State's economic growth is outpacing the rest of the nation.
The unemployment rate, while still higher than the national average, fell to
an average of 5.9% in 1998, compared to over 10% at the worst of the
recession. California's economic recovery from the recession is continuing at
a strong pace. Recent economic reports indicate that, while the rate of
economic growth in California is expected to moderate over the next year, the
increases in employment and income may exceed those of the nation as a whole.
The unsettled financial situation occurring in certain Asian economies, and
its spillover effect elsewhere, may adversely affect the State's
export-related industries and, therefore, the State's rate of economic
growth.
The Governor signed the 1998-99 Budget Act on August 21, 1998. The 1998-99
Budget Act is based on projected General Fund revenues and transfers of $57.0
billion (after giving effect to various tax reductions enacted in 1997 and
1998), a 4.2% increase from the revised 1997-98 figures. Special Fund
revenues were estimated at $14.3 billion. The revenue projections were based
on the Governor's May Revision to the 1998-99 Budget and may be overstated in
light of the possible effect on California's economic growth of worsening
economic problems in various international markets.
The Budget Act provides authority for expenditures of $57.3 billion from
the General Fund (a 7.3% increase from 1997-98), $14.7 billion from Special
Funds, and $3.4 billion from bond funds. The Budget Act projects a balance in
the SFEU at June 30, 1999 of $1.255 billion, a little more than 2% of General
Fund revenues. The Budget Act assumes the State will carry out its normal
intra-year cash flow borrowing in the amount of $1.7 billion of revenue
anticipation notes issued in October, 1998.
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The most significant feature of the 1998-99 budget was agreement on a
total of $1.4 billion of tax cuts. The central element is a bill which
provides for a phased-in reduction of the Vehicle License Fee (VLF). Since
the VLF is currently transferred to cities and counties, the bill provides
for the General Fund to replace the lost revenues. Starting on January 1,
1999, the VLF will be reduced by 25%, at a cost to the General Fund of
approximately $500 million in the 1998-99 Fiscal Year and about $1 billion
annually thereafter.
The Governor's proposed budget for fiscal year 1999-2000 proposes total
State spending of $76.2 billion (excluding the expenditure of federal funds
and selected bond funds), which is up 4.1% from the 1998-1999 budget. This
total includes $60.5 billion in General Fund spending (a 3.8% increase) and
$15.7 billion in special funds spending. The Governor's proposed budget
anticipates a $415 million reserve by the close of the fiscal year. The
proposed budget addresses an anticipated funding shortfall of $2.3 billion
(which includes funds to rebuild the reserve) through a combination of new
state and federal resources, the rescheduling of certain expenditures, under
budgeting certain expenditures, spending cutbacks, and savings assumptions.
As of November 1, 1998, the State had over $18.6 billion aggregate amount
of its general obligation bonds outstanding. General obligation bond
authorizations in an aggregate amount of approximately $5.7 billion remained
unissued as of November 1, 1998. At the November 3, 1998 election, voters
approved a bond measure totaling $9.2 billion for public school construction
and renovation, and for higher education facilities. The State also builds
and acquires capital facilities through the use of lease purchase borrowing.
As of November 1, 1998, the State had approximately $6.5 billion of
outstanding Lease-Purchase Debt.
In addition to the general obligation bonds, State agencies and
authorities had approximately $24.6 billion aggregate principal amount of
revenue bonds and notes outstanding as of September 30, 1998. Revenue bonds
represent both obligations payable from State revenue-producing enterprises
and projects, which are not payable from the General Fund, and conduit
obligations payable only from revenues paid by private users of facilities
financed by such revenue bonds. Such enterprises and projects include
transportation projects, various public works and exposition projects,
educational facilities (including the California State University and
University of California systems), housing, health facilities, and pollution
control facilities.
Because of the State of California's budget problems, the State's General
Obligation bonds were downgraded in July 1994 to A1 from Aa by Moody's, to A
from A+ by S&P, and to A from AA by Fitch. Moody's, Fitch and S&P expressed
uncertainty in the State's ability to balance its budget by 1996. However, in
1996, citing California's improving economy and budget situation, both Fitch
and S&P raised their ratings from A to A+. In October, 1997, Fitch raised its
rating from A+ to AA-referring to the State's fundamental strengths, the
extent of its economic recovery and the return of financial stability. In
October 1998, Moody's raised its rating from A1 to Aa3 citing the State's
continuing economic recovery and a number of actions taken to improve the
State's credit condition, including the rebuilding of cash and budget
reserves.
The State is a party to numerous legal proceedings, many of which normally
occur in governmental operations and which, if decided against the State,
might require the State to make significant future expenditures or impair
future revenue sources.
Year 2000. In October 1997 the Governor issued Executive Order W-163-97
stating that Year 2000 solutions would be a State priority and requiring each
agency of the State, no later than December 31, 1998, to address Year 2000
problems in their essential systems and protect those systems from corruption
by non-compliant systems, in accordance with the Department of Information
Technology's California 2000 Program. There can be no assurance that steps
being taken by state or local government agencies with respect to the Year
2000 problem will be sufficient to avoid any adverse impact upon the budgets
or operations of those agencies.
On December 6, 1994, Orange County, California, became the largest
municipality in the United States to file for protection under the Federal
bankruptcy laws. The filing stemmed from approximately
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$1.7 billion in losses suffered by the County's investment pool due to
investments in high risk "derivative" securities. On June 12, 1996, it
emerged from bankruptcy after the successful sale of $880 million in
municipal bonds allowed the county to pay off the last of its creditors. On
January 7, 1997, Orange County returned to the municipal bond market with a
$136 million bond issue maturing in 13 years at an insured yield of 7.23%. In
December, 1997, Moody's raised its ratings on $325 million of Orange County
pension obligation bonds to Baa3 from Ba. In February 1998, Fitch assigned
outstanding Orange County pension obligation bonds a BBB rating.
Los Angeles County, the nation's largest county, has also experienced
financial difficulty. In August 1995 the credit rating of the county's
long-term bonds was downgraded for the third time since 1992 as a result of,
and among other things, severe operating deficits for the county's health
care system. In addition, the county was affected by an ongoing loss of
revenue caused by state property tax shift initiatives in 1993 through 1995.
In April 1998, the Los Angeles County Chief Administrative Officer proposed
an approximately $13.2 billion 1998-99 budget, which would be 5.3% larger
than the 1997-98 budget, and which would not require cuts in services and
jobs to close a projected deficit. In June 1998, the Los Angeles County Board
of Supervisors approved an approximately $13.6 billion 1998-99 budget,
reserving the right to make further changes to reflect revenue allocation
decisions in the final State budget. In December 1998, Moody's raised the
ratings on the County's general obligation bonds to A1 from A2. The City of
Los Angeles is the largest city in the county and its general obligation
bonds are rated AA by S&P and Aa by Moody's.
The effect of these various constitutional and statutory amendments and
budget developments upon the ability of California issuers to pay interest
and principal on their obligations remains unclear and in any event may
depend upon whether a particular California tax-exempt security is a general
or limited obligation bond and on the type of security provided for the bond.
It is possible that other measures affecting the taxing or spending authority
of California or its political subdivisions may be approved or enacted in the
future.
THE FLORIDA SERIES -- SPECIAL INVESTMENT CONSIDERATIONS. The following
information is provided only for general information purposes and is not
intended to be a description or summary of the investment considerations and
factors which may have an affect on the Florida Series or the obligations of
the issuers in which the Florida Series may invest. Prospective investors
must read the entire prospectus to obtain information essential to the making
of an informed investment decision.
The Florida Series invests primarily in municipal securities and
obligations of counties, cities, school districts, special districts, and
other government authorities and issuers of the State of Florida, the
interest on which is excludable from gross income for federal income tax
purposes. The Florida Series may also invest in tax-exempt, municipal
securities and obligations that are issued by governmental entities for the
benefit of certain private obligors. The repayment of such securities and
obligations ultimately is the responsibility of the private obligor and the
governmental issuer typically is not responsible for the repayment of such
securities and obligations. The municipal securities market of Florida is
very diverse and includes many different types of obligations that are issued
by a number of different issuers and which are payable from a variety of
revenue sources. Accordingly, the ability of Florida issuers or private
obligors to meet their obligations with respect to such municipal securities
is influenced by various political, legal, economic and regulatory factors
affecting such issuers, the State of Florida and the repayment sources
supporting municipal obligations. If any of such issuers or private obligors
cannot satisfy their repayment obligations, for any reason, the income, value
and liquidity of the Florida Series may be adversely affected.
As of January 1, 1999, the State of Florida's general obligation debt
maintained ratings of "AA+" from Standard & Poor's Ratings Group, "AA" from
Fitch IBCA and "Aa2" from Moody's Investors Service. It should be noted,
however, that the Florida Series is not required to invest in Florida general
obligation debt and, accordingly, may or may not have any investments in
Florida general obligation debt from time to time. Some issuers in which the
Florida Series invests may have ratings lower than those noted above while
others may have higher ratings.
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Florida presently is the fourth largest state in the United States and
continues to be one of the most rapidly growing states. Between 1980 and
1990, Florida's population increased by approximately 3.2 million people, the
second largest population increase for any state during the decade
(California was first). During such period of time, Florida's total
percentage growth in population was 32.7%, the fourth largest percentage
increase among states. Florida's population has continued to grow since 1990,
but at a slower pace than during the 1980s and prior decades. As of April 1,
1998, Florida's population had grown approximately 15.9 percent since April
1, 1990 to a total population of 15,000,475, making Florida the 11th fastest
growing state in the 1990's.
Florida's principal economic sectors include services and tourism, retail,
light manufacturing, particularly in the electronic, chemical and
transportation areas, finance and insurance, real estate, wholesale trade,
transportation and communications, agriculture, government and the military.
During the last few calendar years Florida's unemployment figures have
approximated the national average. Florida's economy has strengthened over
the last several years reflecting the strong national economy. Most of
Florida's economic sectors are expected to grow in the future and in light of
Florida's geographic location and diverse population, it is anticipated that
Florida will continue to benefit from the expanding world markets, especially
Latin America.
The State of Florida and its political subdivisions are each required by
law to maintain balanced budgets. In order to satisfy this requirement,
Florida government entities have utilized a combination of spending
reductions and revenue enhancements. From time to time, tax and/or spending
limitation initiatives are introduced by the Florida Legislature or are
proposed by the citizens of the State in the form of amendments to the
Florida Constitution. Two such amendments are now effective and are generally
described below.
By voter referendum held in 1992, the Florida Constitution was amended by
adding a subsection which, in effect, limits the annual increases in assessed
just value of homestead property to the lesser of (1) three percent of the
assessment for the prior year, or (2) the percentage change in the Consumer
Price Index, as described and calculated in such amendment. The amendment
further provides that (1) no assessment shall exceed just value, (2) after
any change of ownership of homestead property or upon termination of
homestead status, such property shall be reassessed at just value as of
January 1 of the year following the year of sale or change of status, (3) new
homestead property shall be assessed at just value as of January 1 of the
year following the establishment of the homestead, and (4) changes,
additions, reductions or improvements to homestead property shall initially
be assessed as provided for by general law, and thereafter as provided in the
amendment. Pursuant to a Florida Supreme Court ruling, the amendment became
effective on January 1, 1995. Studies have been conducted analyzing the
effect of this amendment on property values and tax collections in Florida
since its effective date. Such studies conclude that while the assessed
values of homestead property within the State have been lower due to the
amendment, the impact on total property tax revenues for local governments
within the State has been small due to growth in the total property tax base
and the property tax revenues received with respect to non-homestead
property. It is expected that the amendment's impact will be similar in
future years.
In the 1994 general election, Florida voters approved an amendment to the
Florida Constitution which is commonly referred to as the "Limitation On
State Revenues Amendment." This amendment provides that state revenues
collected for any fiscal year shall be limited to state revenues allowed
under the amendment for the prior fiscal year plus an adjustment for growth.
Growth is defined as an amount equal to the average annual rate of growth in
Florida personal income over the most recent twenty quarters times the state
revenues allowed under the amendment for the prior fiscal year. State
revenues collected for any fiscal year in excess of this limitation are
required to be transferred to a budget stabilization fund until the fund
reaches the maximum balance specified in the amendment to the Florida
Constitution, and thereafter is required to be refunded to taxpayers as
provided by general law. The limitation on state revenues imposed by the
amendment may be increased by the Legislature, by a two-thirds vote in each
house. This amendment took effect on January 1, 1995, and was first
applicable to the State's fiscal year 1995-96. This amendment has had no
impact for the initial three state fiscal
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years following the effective date of the amendment, as State revenues were
substantially below the constitutionally imposed limitation. It is projected
that State revenues for the next few fiscal years also will not exceed the
applicable revenue limitations. Estimates or projections beyond such period
cannot be made with any certainty at this time.
As the year 2000 approaches, computer systems worldwide will undergo a
date transition that may cause major problems and errors if corrective
measures are not taken. The problem arises in those systems in software
programs which use 2-digit date codes. These codes may recognize the year
2000 as the year 1900, causing many of the systems to malfunction or fail.
Many Florida issuers are taking steps to remedy any year 2000 problems that
may exist with respect to their own computer systems. Some of such issuers
may expend substantial funds in connection with such remediation efforts and,
accordingly, their individual financial situations may be adversely affected.
Other issuers in Florida have not yet made any attempts to solve their
potential year 2000 problems. There can be no assurance that the Florida
issuers in which the Florida Series invests, their vendors, paying agents or
other third parties providing services thereto have or are effectively
dealing with year 2000 issues as the year 2000 approaches. To the extent any
of the foregoing do not effectively resolve their own year 2000 computer
issues, the Florida Series' investments may be adversely affected.
THE MASSACHUSETTS SERIES -- SPECIAL INVESTMENT CONSIDERATIONS. Between
1982 and 1988 The Commonwealth of Massachusetts had a strong economy which
was evidenced by low unemployment and high personal income growth as compared
to national trends. The Commonwealth experienced a significant economic
slowdown from 1988 through 1992, with particular deterioration in the
construction, real estate, insurance, financial and manufacturing sectors,
including certain high technology areas. Economic activity has since improved
and led to improvements in the housing industry and employment rates.
Unemployment had risen to 8.5% in 1992, as compared to a national average of
7.4%; but decreased to 5.1% at the end of fiscal 1995 and further decreased
to 4.1% at the end of fiscal 1996. At the end of fiscal 1997, the
Massachusetts unemployment rate was 3.7% as compared to the national rate of
4.7%.
The recent economic growth has resulted in a progressive growth of state
tax revenues since 1993. Tax revenues for fiscal year 1998 are currently
projected to be approximately 2.6% above fiscal year 1997. The Commonwealth
had a budgetary deficit for fiscal year 1989 and 1990 of $466.4 million and
$1,362.7 billion respectively. Deficits were avoided in fiscal 1991 and 1992,
and a surplus was achieved in 1993, 1994, 1995 and 1996. In 1992, Standard &
Poor's and Moody's raised their ratings of the Commonwealth's general
obligation bonds from BBB and Baa1, respectively, to A and A, respectively
and Standard & Poor's further raised such ratings to A+ in 1993. Currently,
the Commonwealth's general obligation bonds are rated A1 and AA by Moody's
and Standard & Poor's, respectively. From time to time, the rating agencies
may further change their ratings in response to budgetary matters or other
economic indicators. Growth of tax revenues in the Commonwealth is limited by
law. Effective July 1, 1990, limitations were placed on the amount of direct
bonds the Commonwealth could have outstanding in a fiscal year, and the
amount of the total appropriation in any fiscal year that may be expended for
debt service on general obligation debt of the Commonwealth (other than
certain debt incurred to pay the fiscal 1990 deficit and certain Medicaid
reimbursement payments for prior fiscal years) was limited to ten percent.
Moreover, Massachusetts local governmental entities are subject to certain
limitations on their taxing power that could affect their ability or the
ability of the Commonwealth to meet their respective financial obligations.
If either Massachusetts or any of its local governmental entities is
unable to meet its financial obligations, the income derived by the
Massachusetts Series, the Series' net asset value, the Series' ability to
preserve or realize capital appreciation or the Series' liquidity could be
adversely affected.
Between 1982 and 1988 The Commonwealth of Massachusetts had a strong
economy which was evidenced by low unemployment and high personal income
growth as compared to national trends. Economic growth in the Commonwealth
slowed from 1988 to 1992, however, as the Commonwealth experienced a
significant economic slowdown, with particular deterioration in the
construction, real estate, financial, insurance and manufacturing sectors,
including certain high technology areas.
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Economic activity began to improve in 1993 and continued to improve in 1994,
particularly in the construction and service sectors as well as in housing
sales. Since 1995, the services and wholesale and retail trade industries
have been the two largest industries by number of employees. A continued low
rate of inflation is expected to keep wage growth low and allow for
slow-paced positive growth in the Massachusetts economy. Unemployment (which
rose to approximately 8.5% at the end of 1992) fell to 6.6% at the end of
1993 as compared to the national averages of 7.4% at the end of 1992 and 6.4%
at the end of 1993. Unemployment fell an additional 2% to 6.4% at the end of
fiscal 1994 as compared to the national average of 5.8%. By the end of fiscal
1995, unemployment fell even with the national average of 5.6%. The
Massachusetts employment rate at the end of fiscal 1997 was 3.7%, 1% below
the national rate of 4.7%.
Growth of state tax revenues in the Commonwealth slowed considerably in
fiscal 1988, fiscal 1989 and fiscal 1990, while expenditures for state
programs and services increased. Fiscal 1989 and 1990 ended with budgetary
deficits of $466.4 million and $1.362 billion, respectively. The Commonwealth
achieved budget surpluses in each fiscal year since 1991. The Commonwealth's
fiscal 1997 budgeted revenues and other sources are estimated to be
approximately $18.4 billion. The Commonwealth's fiscal 1998 budgeted
expenditures and other uses are estimated to be approximately $18.7 billion.
On a statutory basis of accounting, budgeted funds have achieved a positive
ending balance since 1993, increasing this balance from $562.5 million in
fiscal year 1993 to $1.394 million in fiscal year 1997 for a cumulative
improvement of $831.5 million. In 1991, Standard & Poor's and Moody's lowered
their ratings of the Commonwealth's general obligation bonds from AA and Aa,
respectively, to BBB and Baa, respectively, but in 1992 each raised such
ratings to A and in 1993, Standard & Poor's further increased such rating to
A+. From time to time, the rating agencies may further change their ratings.
Currently, the Commonwealth's general obligation bonds are rated A1 and AA by
Moody's and Standard & Poor's, respectively.
The Commonwealth's fiscal 1991 budget achieved a small surplus principally
as a result of a one time reimbursement claim for Federal funds available
under Medicaid reimbursement programs. In fiscal 1992 and 1993, budget
surpluses were achieved through appropriation and spending reductions and a
significant increase in revenues attributable to tax increases and enhanced
revenue collections. Fiscal 1993 and 1994 tax revenues increased to account
for approximately 45% of all revenues and financing sources. Fiscal 1996 tax
revenues increased to account for approximately 47.5% of all revenues and
financing sources. Fiscal 1997 tax revenues accounted for 47.7%. Tax revenues
for 1998 are estimated to be 2.7% above fiscal 1997.
Growth of tax revenues in the Commonwealth is limited by law. In addition,
effective July 1, 1990, limitations were placed on the amount of direct bonds
(other than Fiscal Recovery Bonds and certain other limited exceptions) the
Commonwealth may have outstanding in a fiscal year, and the amount of the
total appropriation in any fiscal year that may be expended for payment of
principal of and interest on general obligation debt (other than Fiscal
Recovery Bonds) of the Commonwealth was limited to 10 percent of such
appropriation.
Furthermore, certain of the Commonwealth's cities and towns have at times
experienced serious financial difficulties which have adversely affected
their credit standing. The recurrence of such financial difficulties, or
financial difficulties of the Commonwealth, could adversely effect the market
values and marketability of, or result in default in payment on, outstanding
obligations issued by the Commonwealth or its public authorities or
municipalities. In addition, the Massachusetts statutes which limit the
taxing authority of the Commonwealth or certain Massachusetts governmental
entities may impair the ability of issuers of some Massachusetts obligations
to pay debt service on their obligations.
In Massachusetts the tax on personal property and real estate is virtually
the only source of tax revenues available to cities and towns to meet local
costs. "Proposition 2 1/2," an initiative petition adopted by the voters of
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on November 4, 1980, limits the power of
Massachusetts cities and towns and certain tax-supported districts and public
agencies to raise revenue from property taxes to support their operations,
including the payment of certain debt service.
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Proposition 2 1/2 required many cities and towns to reduce their property tax
levels to a stated percentage of the full and fair cash value of their
taxable real estate and personal property and limited the amount by which the
total property taxes assessed by a city or town might increase from year to
year.
To offset shortfalls experienced by local governments as a result of the
implementation of Proposition 2 1/2, the state government increased direct
local aid from the 1981 level of $1.632 billion to the fiscal 1989 level of
$2.9 billion; however, direct local aid dropped in fiscal 1991 and 1992 to
approximately $2.6 billion and $2.3 billion, respectively. Fiscal 1993 and
1994 direct local aid increased to $2.5 billion and $2.7 billion,
respectively. In fiscal 1995 and 1996, direct local aid increased to $3.0
billion and $3.3 billion, respectively. In fiscal 1997, direct local aid
increased to $3.7 billion.
THE MICHIGAN SERIES -- SPECIAL INVESTMENT CONSIDERATIONS. The information
set forth below is derived from official statements prepared in connection
with the issuance of obligations of the State of Michigan and other sources
that are generally available to investors, including the State of Michigan
Comprehensive Annual Financial Reports for the fiscal years ended September
30, 1996, 1997 and 1998. The information is provided as general information
intended to give a recent historical description and is not intended to
indicate further or continuing trends in the financial or other positions of
the State of Michigan. Such information constitutes only a brief summary,
relates primarily to the State of Michigan, does not purport to include
details relating to other potential issuers within the State of Michigan
whose securities may be purchased by the Michigan Series and does not purport
to be a complete description.
Economy. The principal sectors of Michigan's economy are durable goods
manufacturing (including automobile and office equipment manufacturing),
tourism and agriculture. As reflected in historical employment figures,
Michigan's economy has lessened its dependence upon durable goods
manufacturing. In 1960, employment in such industry accounted for 33% of
Michigan's labor force. This figure fell to 16.3% in 1997. This was a
decrease from the level of 17.1% in 1995. However, manufacturing (including
auto-related manufacturing) continues to be an important part of Michigan's
economy. Those industries are highly cyclical; historically, during periods
of economic decline or slow economic growth, the cyclical nature of those
industries has adversely affected the revenue streams of Michigan and its
political subdivisions because it has adversely impacted certain tax sources,
particularly sales taxes, income taxes and single business taxes. Income per
capita in Michigan in 1997 was approximately 1.2 percent lower than the
national average. For the fifth consecutive year, contrary to the prior
historical trend, the average annual unemployment rate for 1998 in Michigan
was slightly lower than the average rate for the United States.
Budget. The budget of Michigan is a complete financial plan and
encompasses the revenues and expenditures, both operating and capital outlay,
of the General Fund and special revenue funds. The budget is prepared on a
basis consistent with generally accepted accounting principles. Michigan's
Fiscal Year begins on October 1 and ends September 30 of the following year.
Under Michigan law, the executive budget recommendations for any fund may not
exceed the estimated revenue thereof, and an itemized statement of estimated
revenues in each operating fund must be contained in an appropriation bill as
passed by the Legislature, the total of which may not be less than the total
of all appropriations made from the fund for that fiscal year. The Michigan
Constitution provides that proposed expenditures from and revenues of any
fund must be in balance and that any prior year's surplus or deficit in any
fund must be included in the succeeding year's budget for that fund.
Michigan's Constitution limits the amount of total State revenues that may
be raised from taxes and other sources. State revenues (excluding federal aid
and revenues used for payment of principal of and interest on general
obligation bonds) in any fiscal year are limited to a specified percentage of
Michigan personal income in the prior calendar year or average thereof in the
prior three calendar years, whichever is greater. The percentage is based
upon the ratio of the 1978-79 fiscal year revenues to total 1977 Michigan
personal income (the total income received by persons in Michigan from all
sources as defined and officially reported by the United States Department of
Commerce). If revenues in any fiscal year exceed the revenue limitation by 1
percent or more, the entire amount exceeding the limitation must be rebated
in the following fiscal year's personal income tax or single business tax.
Annual excesses of
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less than 1 percent may be transferred into Michigan's Counter-Cyclical
Budget and Economic Stabilization Fund ("BSF"). Michigan may raise taxes in
excess of the limit in emergency situations when deemed necessary by the
Governor and two-thirds of the members of each house of the Legislature.
Michigan finances its operations through its General Fund and special
revenue funds. The General Fund receives revenues that are not specifically
required to be included in the special revenue funds. Approximately 56% of
General Fund revenues are obtained from the payment of state taxes, and
approximately 44% are obtained from federal and nontax revenue sources. The
majority of the revenues from state taxes are from the personal income tax,
the single business tax, the use tax and the sales tax. In addition, Michigan
levies various other taxes. Over two-thirds of total General Fund
expenditures are made for education, the Family Independence Agency and the
Department of Community Health. State support of public education consists of
aid to local and intermediate school districts (which provide education to
children in grades kindergarten through 12), charter schools, State
universities, community colleges, and the Department of Education, which is
responsible for administering a variety of programs that provide additional
special purpose funding for local and intermediate school districts. The
Family Independence Agency and the Department of Community Health administer
economic, social and medical assistance programs in Michigan, including
Medicare, Medicaid and the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (the
"TANF") block grant.
Michigan ended fiscal years 1995-96 and 1996-97 with General Fund
surpluses of $91.3 million and $53.3 million respectively. In fiscal year
1995-96, the State of Michigan made deposits into its Counter-Cyclical Budget
and Economic Stabilization Fund (BSF) totaling $150.5 million. The unreserved
balance for the BSF as of the end of fiscal year 1997-98, reported on a cash
basis, was 1,000.5 million.
General Fund revenues and other financing sources (including restricted
sources, operating transfers in, and capital lease acquisitions) totaled
approximately $19.3 billion for the fiscal year 1997-1998. Expenditures and
other financing uses totaled approximately $18.8 billion. The unreserved fund
balance of the General Fund was $55.2 million at fiscal year-end.
During fiscal year 1997-98, an error was identified pertaining to the
Medicaid program administered by the Department of Community Health (DCH).
Over a ten-year period, DCH did not properly record all Medicaid expenditures
and revenues on a modified accrual basis as required by GAAP. For the fiscal
year ended September 30, 1997, the General Fund did not reflect Medicaid
expenditures of $178.7 million, and federal revenue of $24.6 million. As a
result, the fiscal year 1997-98 beginning fund balances were reduced by
$154.1 million, to $893.1 million, to account for the correction of the prior
period error.
The Michigan Legislature has adopted the budget for fiscal year 1998-99.
DEBT. The Michigan Constitution limits Michigan general obligation debt to
(i) short-term debt for State operating purposes which must be repaid in the
same fiscal year in which it is issued and which cannot exceed 15% of the
undedicated revenues received by the State during the preceding fiscal year,
(ii) short-and long-term debt unlimited in amount for the purpose of making
loans to school districts and (iii) long-term debt for voter-approved
purposes.
Michigan has issued and has outstanding general obligation full faith and
credit bonds for water resources, environmental protection program,
recreation program and school loan purposes, which as of September 30, 1998
totaled approximately $874 million. In November 1988 Michigan's voters
approved the issuance of $800 million of general obligation bonds for
environmental protection and recreational purposes; of this amount
approximately $173 million remained to be issued as of September 30, 1998.
On April 28, 1998, the State issued $160 million in general obligation
school loan bonds for school loan purposes and on June 3, 1998, the State
issued $90 million in general obligation environmental protection program
bonds. Additionally, in November 1998, the Michigan voters approved the
issuance of $675 million in general obligation indebtedness for environmental
and other purposes.
There are also various state authorities and special purpose agencies
created by Michigan which issue bonds secured by specific revenues. Such debt
is not a general obligation of Michigan.
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Litigation. Michigan is a party to various legal proceedings seeking
damages or injunctive or other relief. In addition to routine litigation,
certain of these proceedings could, if unfavorably resolved from the point of
view of Michigan, substantially affect State programs or finances. Those
lawsuits involve programs generally in the areas of corrections, tax
collection, commerce and budgetary reductions to school districts and
governmental units and court funding. Relief sought includes damages in tort
cases generally, alleviation of prison overcrowding, improvement of prison
medical and mental health care, and refund claims under Michigan taxes. The
ultimate disposition and consequences of all of those proceedings were not
determinable as of March 4, 1998. In an order dated June 10, 1997 and a
decision rendered July 31, 1997, the Michigan Supreme Court decided, in the
consolidated cases of Durant v. State of Michigan and Schmidt v. State of
Michigan, that the state must pay $212 million to 84 school districts to
settle litigation involving state mandates. The governor signed legislation
providing $212 million to the 84 school districts. The $212 million was paid
from the BSF on April 15, 1998. Approximately 400 other school districts
asserted similar claims; the State has settled with these districts for
payments that will, over fifteen years beginning in the fiscal year 1998-99,
total $632 million. This amount is to be paid from the BSF and the General
Fund; half in annual payments over ten years, and half in annual payments
over fifteen years.
On May 14, 1998, more than 100 Michigan school districts and individuals
filed suit in the Michigan Court of Appeals, asserting that the current
version of the state school aid act violates the Michigan Constitution in
much the same manner as prior versions of the act were ruled unconstitutional
by the Michigan Supreme Court in Durant, Durant, et al v State, et al
("Durant II"). The Durant II plaintiffs are seeking a monetary remedy of
approximately $347 million for the 1997-1998 school year for the State's
alleged underfunding of special education services, special education
transportation, and school lunch programs. The Durant II plaintiffs are also
requesting a declaratory judgment that the current version of the state
school aid act will not provide proper funding levels for future school
years. They also seek attorneys fees and costs of the litigation. On October
30, 1998, the school districts moved to amend their complaint to challenge
the newly-enacted amendments to the State School Aid Act, 1998 PA 339, to add
claims for the 1999-2000 fiscal year and to add a new count for mandamus
against the state treasurer. On December 2, 1998, the Court of Appeals
granted the Durant II plaintiffs' motion to amend the complaint and
established a briefing schedule. The case remains pending in the Court of
Appeals and is expected to proceed in an expedited fashion. The ultimate
disposition of the legal proceedings described in this paragraph is not
presently determinable.
10th Judicial Circuit, et al. v. State of Michigan, et al.: On August 22,
1994, the Ingham Circuit and Probate Courts, together with the 55th District
Court, filed suits in the Court of Claims and Ingham County Circuit Court
against the State of Michigan and Ingham County for declaratory and
injunctive relief, and for damages, due to the alleged failure of the State
Court Administrative Office to properly calculate Ingham County's
reimbursement under MCL 600.9947, the court funding statute. Plaintiffs
assert that the amount in controversy exceeds 5 million dollars. The case is
currently pending final class certification.
Year 2000. On October 1, 1997, the State created the Year 2000 Project
Office to provide guidance, coordinate oversight for application software,
manage Year 2000 funds, provide monitoring support, quality assurance and
other matters. The State identified 748 computer applications, primarily
within the executive branch, that are critical to conducting the State's
operations and that need to be year 2000 compliant. The Year 2000 Project
Office has also received written assurance from agencies whose critical
applications are being evaluated by outside vendors. The agencies were
responsible for assessing the status of computer equipment and were replacing
or upgrading their equipment as needed. The agencies should complete this
assessment on or before October 1, 1999.
The State's year 2000 remediation efforts have been aimed primarily at
ensuring unimpeded and uninterrupted operation, including tax collections,
investment activities, and timely payment of its obligations. As of September
30, 1998, the State had validated and tested 57% of the 748 mission critical
computer applications. The remaining 43% of the critical applications were in
other stages of completion.
The Legislature appropriated $55.6 million to assist agencies in obtaining
external resources to address year 2000 issues. As of September 30, 1998, the
State had expended $18.3 million of the appropriation. There were no
significant commitments (contracts) outstanding with vendors on September 30,
1998.
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The Department of Management and Budget (DMB) believes that the State has
the correct plan in place and that the State will be able to process date
and/or date-related information correctly prior to, during, and after January
1, 2000. However, because of the unprecedented nature of the year 2000 issue,
its effect and the success of the related remediation efforts cannot be fully
determinable until the year 2000 and thereafter. Consequently, the DMB cannot
guarantee that the State is or will be year 2000 ready, that the State's
remediation efforts will be successful in whole or in part, or that parties
with whom the State does business will be year 2000 ready.
Property Tax Initiatives. On March 15, 1994, Michigan voters approved a
property tax and school finance reform measure known as Proposal A. Under
Proposal A, as approved, effective May 1, 1994, the State sales and use tax
increased from 4% to 6%, the State income tax decreased from 4.6% to 4.4%,
the cigarette tax was increased from $.25 to $.75 per pack and an additional
tax of 16% of the wholesale price began to be imposed on certain other
tobacco products. A .75% real estate transfer tax became effective on January
1, 1995. Beginning in 1994, a State of Michigan property tax of six mills
began to be imposed on all real and personal property currently subject to
the general property tax. All local school boards are authorized, with voter
approval, to levy up to the lesser of 18 mills or the number of mills levied
in 1993 for school operating purposes on nonhomestead property and
nonqualified agricultural property. Proposal A contains additional provisions
regarding the ability of local school districts to levy taxes, as well as a
limit on annual assessment increases for each parcel of property beginning in
1995; increases for each parcel of property are limited to the lesser of 5%
or the rate of inflation. When property is subsequently sold, its assessed
value will revert to the current assessment level of 50% of true cash value.
Under Proposal A, much of the additional revenue generated by the new taxes
will be dedicated to the State's School Aid Fund. Proposal A shifts
significant portions of the cost of local school operations from local school
districts to the State of Michigan and raises additional State revenues to
fund those additional State expenses. Those additional revenues will be
included within the State's constitutional revenue limitations and may impact
the State's ability to raise additional revenues in the future.
TREATMENT OF DISTRIBUTIONS FOR MICHIGAN TAX PURPOSES. Under existing
Michigan law, to the extent that the distributions from the Michigan Series
qualify as "exempt-interest dividends" of a regulated investment company
under Section 852(b)(5) of the Code which are attributable to interest on
tax-exempt obligations of the State of Michigan, its political or
governmental subdivisions, or its governmental agencies or instrumentalities
("Michigan Obligations"), or obligations of the United States or its agencies
or possessions that are exempt from state taxation, such distributions will
also not be subject to Michigan income tax or Michigan single business tax.
To the extent that distributions of the Michigan Series are derived from
other income, including long-or short-term capital gains, the distributions
will not be exempt from Michigan income tax or Michigan single business tax.
Certain Michigan cities have adopted Michigan's uniform city income tax
ordinance, which under the Michigan city income tax act is the only income
tax ordinance that may be adopted by cities in Michigan. To the extent the
distributions on the Michigan Series are not subject to Michigan income tax,
they are not subject to any Michigan city's income tax.
Ratings. As of January 20, 1999, Michigan's general obligation bonds were
rated "Aa1" by Moody's Investors Service, "AA+" by Standard & Poor's Ratings
Services and "AA+" by Fitch Investors Service. All of these ratings represent
an upgrade of previous ratings of Aa2, AA, and AA respectively. These
upgrades occurred in early 1998, and were reaffirmed in May 1998. To the
extent that the portfolio of the Michigan Series is comprised of revenue
obligations of the State of Michigan or revenue or general obligations of
local governments or State or local authorities, rather than general
obligations of the State of Michigan, ratings on such components of the
Michigan Series will be different from those given to the general obligations
of the State of Michigan and their value may be independently affected by
economic matters not directly impacting the State.
THE MINNESOTA SERIES -- SPECIAL INVESTMENT CONSIDERATIONS. The information
set forth below is derived from official statements prepared in connection
with the issuance of obligations of the State of
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Minnesota and other sources that are generally available to investors. The
information is provided as general information intended to give a recent
historical description and is not intended to indicate further or continuing
trends in the financial or other positions of the State of Minnesota. Such
information constitutes only a brief summary, relates primarily to the State
of Minnesota, does not purport to include details relating to all potential
issuers within the State of Minnesota whose securities may be purchased by
the Minnesota Series, and does not purport to be a complete description.
The State of Minnesota has experienced certain budgeting and financial
problems since 1980. However, in recent years, Accounting General Fund
Balances have been positive.
In February 1992 the Commissioner of Finance estimated the Accounting
General Fund balance at June 30, 1993, at negative $569 million. The balance
at June 30, 1995, was projected at negative $1.75 billion.
The 1992 Legislature reduced expenditures by $262 million for the biennium
ending June 30, 1993, enacted revenue measures expected to increase revenue
by $149 million, and reduced the budget reserve by $160 million to $240
million.
After the Legislature adjourned in April 1992, the Commissioner of Finance
estimated the Accounting General Fund balance at June 30, 1993, at $2.4
million, and projected the balance at June 30, 1995, at negative $837
million. A November 1992 forecast estimated the balance at June 30, 1993, at
positive $217 million and projected the balance at June 30, 1995, at negative
$769 million.
A March 1993 forecast projected an Accounting General Fund balance at June
30, 1995, at negative $163 million out of a budget for the biennium of
approximately $16.7 billion, and estimated a balance at June 30, 1997, at
negative $1.6 billion out of a budget of approximately $18.7 billion.
The 1993 Legislature authorized $16.519 billion in spending for the
1993-1995 biennium, an increase of 13.0 percent from 1991-1993 expenditures.
Resources for the 1993-1995 biennium were projected to be $16.895 billion,
including $657 million carried forward from the previous biennium. The
$16.238 billion in projected non-dedicated and dedicated revenues was 10.3
percent greater than in the previous biennium and included $175 million from
revenue measures enacted by the 1993 Legislature. The Legislature increased
the health care provider tax to raise $79 million, transferred $39 million
into the Accounting General Fund and improved collection of accounts
receivable to generate $41 million.
After the Legislature adjourned in May 1993, the Commissioner of Finance
estimated that at June 30, 1995, the Accounting General Fund balance would be
$16 million and the budget reserve, as approved by the 1993 Legislature,
would be $360 million. The Accounting General Fund balance at June 30, 1993,
was $463 million.
The Commissioner of Finance, in a November 1993 forecast, estimated the
Accounting General Fund balance at June 30, 1995, at $430 million, due to
projected increases in revenues and reductions in expenditures, and the
balance at June 30, 1997, at $389 million. The Commissioner recommended that
the budget reserve be increased to $500 million. He estimated that if current
laws and policies continued unchanged, revenue would grow 7.7 percent and
expenditures 6.0 percent in the 1995-1997 biennium.
A March 1994 forecast projected an Accounting General Fund balance at June
30, 1995, at $623 million, principally due to a projected $235 million
increase in revenues to $16.6 billion for the biennium. The balance at June
30, 1997, was estimated to be $247 million.
The 1994 Legislature provided for a $500 million budget reserve;
appropriated to school districts $172 million to allow the districts, for
purposes of state aid calculations, to reduce the portion of property tax
collections that the school districts must recognize in the fiscal year
during which they receive the property taxes; increased expenditures $184
million; and increased expected revenues $4 million.
Of the $184 million in increased expenditures, criminal justice
initiatives totaled $45 million, elementary and higher education $31 million,
environment and flood relief $18 million, property tax relief $55 million,
and transit $11 million. A six-year strategic capital budget plan was adopted
with $450 million in projects financed by bonds supported by the Accounting
General Fund. Other expenditure increases total $16.5 million.
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Included in the expected revenue increase of $4 million were conformity
with federal tax changes to increase revenues $27.5 million, a sales tax
phasedown on replacement capital equipment and miscellaneous sales tax
exemptions decreasing revenues $17.3 million, and other measures decreasing
revenues $6.2 million.
After the Legislature adjourned in May 1994, the Commissioner of Finance
estimated the Accounting General Fund balance at June 30, 1995, at $130
million.
The Commissioner of Finance, in a November 1994 forecast, estimated the
Accounting General Fund balance at June 30, 1995, at $268 million, due to
projected increases in revenues and decreases in expenditures, and the
balance at June 30, 1997, at $190 million.
A February 1995 forecast projected an Accounting General Fund balance at
June 30, 1995, at $383 million, due to a $93.5 million increase in projected
revenues and a $21.0 million decrease in expenditures. The balance at June
30, 1997, was projected at $250 million.
The 1995 Legislature authorized $18.220 billion in spending for the
1995-1997 biennium, an increase of $1.395 billion, 8.3 percent, from
1993-1995 expenditures. Resources for the 1995-1997 biennium were projected
to be $18.774 billion, including $921 million carried forward from the
previous biennium.
The Legislature authorized 7.1 percent more spending for elementary and
secondary education in the 1995-1997 biennium than in 1993-1995, 0.9 percent
more in local government aids, 14.2 percent more for health and human
services, 2.3 percent more for higher education, and 25.1 percent more for
corrections. The Legislature set the budget reserve at $350 million and
established a supplementary reserve of $204 million in view of predicted
federal cutbacks.
After the Legislature adjourned in May 1995, the Commissioner of Finance
estimated that at June 30, 1997, the Accounting General Fund balance would be
zero. The Accounting General Fund balance at June 30, 1995, was $481 million.
The Commissioner of Finance, in a November 1995 forecast, estimated the
Accounting General Fund balance at June 30, 1997, at $824 million, due to a
$490 million increase in revenues from those projected in May 1995, a $199
million reduction in projected expenditures, and a $135 million increase in
the amount carried forward from the 1993-1995 biennium. An improved national
economic outlook increased projected net sales tax revenue $257 million and
reduced projected human services expenditures $231 million. The Commissioner
estimated the Accounting General Fund balance at June 30, 1999, at negative
$28 million.
Only $15 million of the $824 million projected 1995-1997 surplus was
available for spending. The statutes require that an additional $15 million
be placed in the supplementary budget reserve, and an additional $794 million
must be appropriated to school districts to allow the districts, for purposes
of state aid calculations, to eliminate the 48 percent of property tax
collections that the school districts must recognize in the fiscal year
during which they receive the property taxes.
A February 1996 forecast projected an Accounting General Fund balance at
June 30, 1997, at $873 million, due to a $104 million increase in projected
revenues, a $19 million increase in expenditures, and a $36 million reduction
in the June 30, 1995, ending balance. The amount available for spending
increased from $15 million to $64 million.
In February 1996, the Commissioner of Finance estimated the Accounting
General Fund balance at June 30, 1999, at $54 million.
The 1996 Legislature reduced the State of Minnesota's commitment to
eliminate the so-called school recognition shift. The 1995 Legislature had
voted to allow school districts, for purposes of state aid calculations, to
eliminate the 48 percent of property tax collections that the school
districts must recognize in the fiscal year during which they receive the
property taxes. The 1996 Legislature raised the percentage for the 1995-1997
biennium from zero to 7 percent, saving the State $116 million.
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The 1996 Legislature increased expenditures $130 million, including $37
million for elementary education and youth development; $14 million for
higher education; $17 million for health systems and human services reforms;
$16 million for public safety and criminal justice; and $36 million for
transportation, environment and technology. The Legislature also approved
$614 million in capital projects to be funded by general obligation bonds and
appropriations and increased expected revenues $5 million.
After the Legislature adjourned in April 1996, the Commissioner of Finance
estimated the Accounting General Fund balance at June 30, 1997, at $1
million. The Accounting General Fund balance at June 30, 1996, was $445
million.
The Commissioner of Finance, in a November 1996 forecast, estimated the
Accounting General Fund balance at June 30, 1997, at $793 million, due to a
$646 million increase in revenues from those projected in April 1996, a $209
million reduction in expenditures, and $63 million in other changes. The
longest period of national economic growth since World War II, through
mid-1999, was forecast. Individual income taxes were forecast to be $427
million more than projected in April 1996, and sales taxes $81 million more.
Of the $209 million reduction in forecast expenditures, $199 million were
health and human services expenditures.
Existing statutes require the first $114 million of the forecast balance
to be dedicated to a new education aid reserve for use in the 1997-1999
biennium. Another $157 million must be used to increase from 85 to 90 percent
the portion of state aid to school districts that is paid in the fiscal year
during which the districts become entitled to aid.
A February 1997 forecast projected an Accounting General Fund balance at
June 30, 1997, at $866 million (after taking into account the $114 million
and $157 million items referred to above), due to a $236 million increase in
projected revenues and a $108 million decrease in expenditures. The balance
at June 30, 1999, was projected at $1.7 billion.
The 1997 Legislature, in a regular session and June and August special
sessions, authorized $20.924 billion in spending for the 1997-1999 biennium,
an increase of $2.231 billion, or 11.8 percent, from 1995-1997 expenditures.
Resources for the 1997-1999 biennium were projected to be $21.946 billion,
including $1.630 billion carried forward from the previous biennium.
The Legislature authorized 14.8 percent more spending for elementary and
secondary education spending in the 1997-1999 biennium than in 1995-1997,
17.6 percent more for health and human services, 12.5 percent more in local
government aids, 10.7 percent more for higher education, and 0.3 percent more
for all other expenditures. The Legislature set the General Fund budget
reserve at $522 million. The cash flow account was set at $350 million, and a
property tax reform reserve account of $46 million was created for future
restructuring of the property tax system. Other reserves totaled $72 million.
After the Legislature adjourned its second special session in August 1997,
the Commissioner of Finance estimated that at June 30, 1999, the Accounting
General Fund balance would be positive $32 million. The Accounting General
Fund balance at June 30, 1997 was an estimated $861 million.
The Commissioner of Finance, in a November 1997 forecast, estimated the
Accounting General Fund balance at June 30, 1999, at $1.360 billion, $1.328
billion more than estimated after the 1997 legislature adjourned, due to a
$729 million increase in projected revenues, a $256 million reduction in
projected expenditures, $21 million increase in dedicated reserves, and a
$364 million increase in the projected amount carried forward from the
1995-1997 biennium. Higher than anticipated individual income tax payments
were the major source of $272 million in additional revenues in the first
half of 1997, and human services savings were the principal source of $92
million in reduced expenditures. The Commissioner estimated the Accounting
General Fund balance at June 30, 2001, at $1.284 billion.
Only $453 million of the $1.360 billion projected 1997-1999 surplus was
available for spending. The statutes allocate the first $81 million of the
forecast balance to fund K-12 education tax credits and deductions enacted in
1997. Sixty percent of the remainder plus interest, $826 million, is added to
a property tax reform account.
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A February 1998 forecast projected an Accounting General Fund balance at
June 30, 1999, at $1.045 billion, due to a $507 million increase in projected
revenues, a $90 million decrease in expenditures, and a $5 million increase
in dedicated reserves. The balance at June 30, 2001, was projected at $2.137
billion.
The 1998 Legislature increased spending $125 million for K-12 education
aids, $90 million to reduce the school property tax recognition shift
percentage to zero, $73 million for higher education, and $148 million for
all other operations. The Legislature also approved $999 million in capital
improvements, to be funded by $509 million in bonds and $502 million in
appropriations.
After the Legislature adjourned in April 1998, the Commissioner of Finance
estimated the Accounting General Fund balance at June 30, 1999, at $35
million.
The Commissioner of Finance, in a November 1998 forecast, estimated the
Accounting General Fund balance at June 30, 1999, at $953 million, due to an
$803 million increase in non-tobacco revenues, the receipt of $461 million in
tobacco settlement revenues, and $262 million reduction in expenditures. A
total of $609 million of the $1.562 billion of estimated available revenues
is statutorily dedicated to reserves, tax reduction, and cash to replace
bonding.
The Commissioner of Finance in November 1998 estimated the structural
balance at June 30, 2001, at $821 million.
The State of Minnesota has no obligation to pay any bonds of its political
or governmental subdivisions, municipalities, governmental agencies, or
instrumentalities. The creditworthiness of local general obligation bonds is
dependent upon the financial condition of the local government issuer, and
the creditworthiness of revenue bonds is dependent upon the availability of
particular designated revenue sources or the financial conditions of the
underlying obligors. Although most of the bonds owned by the Minnesota Series
are expected to be obligations other than general obligations of the State of
Minnesota itself, there can be no assurance that the same factors that
adversely affect the economy of the State generally will not also affect
adversely the market value or marketability of such other obligations, or the
ability of the obligors to pay the principal of or interest on such
obligations.
At the local level, the property tax base has recovered after its growth
was slowed in many communities in the early 1990s by an overcapacity in
certain segments of the commercial real estate market. Local finances are
also affected by the amount of State aid that is made available. Further,
various of the issuers within the State of Minnesota, as well as the State of
Minnesota itself, whose securities may be purchased by the Minnesota Series,
may now or in the future be subject to lawsuits involving material amounts.
It is impossible to predict the outcome of these lawsuits. Any losses with
respect to these lawsuits may have an adverse impact on the ability of these
issuers to meet their obligations.
Year 2000. The Department of Finance acknowledged in 1995 that the State
of Minnesota's accounting system was not Year 2000 (Y2K) compliant and that
the systems vendor would deliver a compliant version upgrade in the future.
In mid-1997, State of Minnesota technical staff, along with the systems
vendor, began a $6.5 million project to install the new compliant version of
the accounting software. According to the most recent Official Statement, the
State of Minnesota and the systems vendor were finishing up the remediation
and testing stages of the project, and expected to implement the new software
version on November 30, 1998. There can, however, be no assurance that such
implementation will be done in a timely manner. Further, even if the State of
Minnesota successfully addresses its Year 2000 compliance there can be no
assurance that any other organization or governmental agency with which the
State of Minnesota electronically interacts, including vendors and the
federal government, will be Year 2000 compliant. In the event of any such
occurrences, the State of Minnesota may face material adverse consequences
with respect to its revenues and operations. Local issuers in the State of
Minnesota may face similar problems.
Legislation enacted in 1995 provides that it is the intent of the
Minnesota Legislature that interest income on obligations of Minnesota
governmental units, and exempt-interest dividends that are derived from
interest income on such obligations, be included for Minnesota income tax
purposes in the net
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income of resident individuals, among others, if it is judicially determined
that the exemption by Minnesota of such interest or such exempt-interest
dividends unlawfully discriminates against interstate commerce because
interest income on obligations of governmental issuers located in other
states, or exempt-interest dividends derived from such obligations, is so
included. This provision applies to taxable years that begin during or after
the calendar year in which such judicial decision becomes final, regardless
of the date on which the obligations were issued, and other remedies apply
for previous taxable years. The United States Supreme Court in 1995 denied
certiorari in a case in which an Ohio State Court upheld an exemption for
interest income on obligations of Ohio governmental issuers, even though
interest income on obligations of non-Ohio governmental issuers was subject
to tax. In 1997, the United States Supreme Court denied certiorari in a
subsequent case from Ohio involving the same taxpayer and the same issue, in
which the Ohio Supreme Court refused to reconsider the merits of the case on
the ground that the previous final state court judgment barred any claim
arising out of the transaction that was the subject of the previous action.
It cannot be predicted whether a similar case will be brought in Minnesota or
elsewhere, or what the outcome of such case would be. Should an adverse
decision be rendered, the value of the securities purchased by the Minnesota
Series might be adversely affected, and the value of the shares of the
Minnesota Series might also be adversely affected.
The State's bond ratings in October 1998 were Aaa by Moody's, AAA by S&P,
and AAA by Fitch's. Economic difficulties and the resultant impact on State
and local government finances may adversely affect the market value of
obligations in the portfolio of the Minnesota Series or the ability of
respective obligors to make timely payment of the principal and interest on
such obligations.
THE NEW JERSEY SERIES -- SPECIAL INVESTMENT CONSIDERATIONS. The portfolio
of the New Jersey Series contains different issues of debt obligations issued
by or on behalf of the State of New Jersey and counties, municipalities and
other political subdivisions and other public authorities thereof or by the
Government of Puerto Rico or the Government of Guam or by their respective
authorities. Investment in the New Jersey Series should be made with an
understanding that the value of the underlying Portfolio may decline with
increases in interest rates. Prospective investors should consider the recent
financial difficulties and pressures which the State of New Jersey and
certain of its public authorities have undergone.
The New Jersey State Constitution prohibits the legislature from making
appropriations in any fiscal year in excess of the total revenue on hand and
anticipated. A debt or liability that exceeds 1% of total appropriations for
the year is also prohibited, unless it is in connection with a refinancing to
produce a debt service savings or it is approved at a general election. Such
debt must be authorized by law and applied to a single specified object or
work. These Constitutional provisions do not apply to debt incurred because
of war, insurrection or emergencies caused by disaster.
Pursuant to Article VIII, Section II, par. 2 of the New Jersey
Constitution, no monies may be drawn from the State Treasury except for
appropriations made by law. In addition, the monies for the support of State
government and all State purposes, as far as can be ascertained, must be
provided for in one general appropriation law covering one and the same
fiscal year.
In addition to the Constitutional provisions, the New Jersey statutes
contain provisions concerning the budget and appropriation system. Under
these provisions, each unit of the State requests an appropriation from the
Director of the Division of Budget and Accounting, who reviews the budget
requests and forwards them with her recommendations to the Governor. The
Governor then transmits a recommended expenditures and sources of anticipated
revenue to the legislature, which reviews the Governor's Budget Message and
submits an appropriation bill to the Governor for her signature by July 1 of
each year. At the time of signing the bill, the Governor may revise
appropriations or anticipated revenues. That action can be reversed by a
two-thirds vote of each House. No supplemental appropriation may be enacted
after adoption of the act, except where there are sufficient revenues on hand
or anticipated, as certified by the Governor, to meet the appropriation.
Finally, the Governor may, during the course of the year, prevent the
expenditure of various appropriations when revenues are below those
anticipated or when any such expenditure is determined not to be in the best
interest of the State.
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Reflecting the economic downturn recently affecting the Northeast, the
rate of unemployment in the State rose from a low of 3.6 percent during the
first quarter of 1989 to a recessionary peak of 8.5% during 1992. Since then,
the unemployment rate fell to an average of 6.2% in 1996 and then from 5.7%
in November 1997 to 4.4% in January, 1998 and 4.2% in November 1998.
Earnings of workers employed in New Jersey rose from $162,701,773,000 in
1996 to $171,766,782,000 in 1997, an increase of 5.6%. The largest industries
in 1997 based on earnings percentage were services (30.7% of earnings), state
and local government (11.8%) and manufacture of nondurable goods (10.0%). New
Jersey's total personal income of $259,566,754,000 in 1997 ranked 8th in the
United States, representing a 5% increase from 1996. New Jersey's 1997 per
capita income of $32,233 ranked 3rd in the United States, representing an
increase of 4.3% from 1996.
After an average annual manufacturing job loss of 33,500 from 1989 through
1992, New Jersey's factory job losses fell to 13,300 and 7,300 during 1993
and 1994 respectively. During 1995 and 1996, however, manufacturing job
losses increased to 10,100 and 13,900. However, according to information from
the Bureau of Labor Statistics, only 9,200 manufacturing jobs, or 1.89%, were
lost from November, 1997 to November, 1998. Over the same period,
construction jobs increased by 5.03%; transportation and public utilities by
1.79%; trade by 1.98%; finance, insurance and real estate by 2.37%; and
services by 3.31%. Employment in government decreased slightly over this
period. Total job growth peaked in 1997 at 87,000, up from a recent average
of 50,000 a year. Total jobs increased by 65,100 from November, 1997 to
November, 1998 or 1.72%. The Rutgers Economic Advisory Service has predicted
that 76,400 new jobs will be created in 1999 with most positions in the
service and retail sectors and in communications.
According to a report issued by the Federal Reserve Board in December,
1998 (the "Beige Book"), housing permits surged in October, 1998 led by a
wave of multifamily projects in Northern New Jersey. At the same time,
moreover, New Jersey homebuilders were reporting fairly strong recent traffic
and sales. Most office building construction forecast for the next two years
is expected to be built in central New Jersey according to a survey by the
New Jersey Chapter of the National Association of Industrial and Office
Properties. Eighty-five percent of $1.62 billion is expected to be spent on
new office and industrial sites in Monmouth, Middlesex, Somerset, Morris and
Mercer Counties, and two-thirds of $1.62 billion will be spent in Morris and
Mercer alone. However, total construction spending projections for 1999 and
2000 of $14.1 billion represent a 9.6% drop from $15.6 billion forecast a
year ago for 1998 and 1999.
Based on estimates released by the United States Census Bureau, New
Jersey's estimated population grew from 8,058,384 to 8,115,011 in the
12-month period ending July 1, 1998, an increase of 0.7%. This compares with
an increase of 0.2% for New York and a decrease of -0.1% for Pennsylvania
over the same period. The relatively small New Jersey increase, compared to a
national increase of 1%, overlays a significant population shift within the
State from northeastern industrial areas towards the coast and central New
Jersey.
The State's 1999 Fiscal Year budget became law on June 30, 1998. Of the
$18,123.8 million appropriated in Fiscal Year 1999 from the General Fund, the
Property Tax Relief Fund, the Gubernatorial Elections Fund, the Casino
Control Fund and the Casino Revenue Fund, the following appropriations were
made for the following purposes: (i) $7,455.1 million (41.1%) for State Aid
to Local Governments ("State Aid"), (ii) $4,898.8 million (27.0%) for
Grants-in-Aid, (iii) $4,653.2 million (25.7%) for Direct State Services, (iv)
$501.1 million (2.8%) for Debt Service on State general obligation bonds and
(v) $615.6 million (3.7%) for Capital Construction.
The largest recommended appropriation included in the State Aid category,
in the amount of $5,925.6 million, was for elementary and secondary education
programs including $2,747.6 million for core curriculum standards, $302.5
million for early childhood aid, $249.8 million for Abbott v. Burke Parity
Remedy aid (see litigation discussion below), $261.1 million for pupil
transportation aid, $647.9 million for special education, $82.7 million for
nonpublic school aid and $95.1 million for debt service on school bonds.
Also, a State Aid appropriation of $50.0 million for facilities improvements
was funded from a portion of an increase in State cigarette taxes. Additional
significant appropriations for schools included $157 million for supplemental
core curriculum standards aid, $187.3 million for demonstrably effective
program aid and $917.4 million to assist school districts with their
contributory share of the social security and teachers' pensions and benefits
programs.
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Other recommended appropriations in the State Aid category included $836.6
million for the Department of Community Affairs, $756.1 million for
Consolidated Municipal Property Tax Relief, $16.7 million for housing
programs, $33.0 million for block grant programs, $30.0 million for
discretionary aid, $252.7 million for welfare programs, $80.3 million for
county mental hospitals, $50.0 million for matching funds to local
governments for open space preservation. State Aid appropriations to the
Department of Treasury of $228.7 million were used for aid to county colleges
($159.8 million); the cost of property tax deductions and exemptions for
senior citizens, disabled persons and veterans ($53.6 million); and the State
contribution to the Consolidated Police and Firemen's Pension Fund ($9.3
million).
The second largest category of appropriations, after State Aid ($4,898.8
million), was for Grants-in-Aid. This category represents amounts used for
payments to individuals or to public or private agencies for benefits or
services to which a recipient is by law entitled. The third largest category
($4,653.2 million) was for Direct State Services consisting of amounts used
to support the operation of State government departments, the Executive
office, various State commissions and the State legislature and judiciary.
Finally, smaller amounts were appropriated to pay debt service on general
obligation bonds of the State ($501.1 million) and for capital construction
financed on a pay-as-you go basis ($615.6 million).
At any given time, there are various claims and cases pending against the
State and State agencies and employees, seeking recovery of monetary damages
that are primarily paid out of the fund created pursuant to the Tort Claims
Act, N.J.S.A. 59:1-1 et seq. Such claims include but are not limited to those
that may be filed against the University of Medicine and Dentistry and its
employees seeking recoveries for alleged medical malpractice. In addition, at
any given time there are various contract and other claims against the State,
among other parties, including environmental claims arising from the alleged
disposal of hazardous wastes, seeking recovery of monetary damages. The State
is unable to estimate its exposure for these claims and cases. An independent
study estimated an aggregate potential exposure of $85,300,000 for tort and
medical malpractice claims pending, as of December 31, 1997. Moreover, New
Jersey is involved in a number of other lawsuits in which adverse decisions
could materially affect revenue or expenditures.
Such lawsuits include (1) actions challenging assessments made upon
property and casualty liability insurers doing business in New Jersey
pursuant to the Fair Automobile Insurance Reform Act; (2) a suit challenging
the constitutionality on Federal Commerce Clause grounds, of certain
hazardous and solid waste licensure renewal fees collected by the Department
of Environmental Protection; (3) litigation seeking to extend to middle
income and poor rural school districts the mandate of Abbott v. Burke, which
requires poor urban school districts to be provided amounts sufficient to
permit them to spend at the average of wealthy suburban school districts; (4)
a class action challenging the treatment of prisoners with serious mental
disorders confined within the State Department of Corrections system; (5) two
separate suits alleging violation of environmental laws resulting from
alleged contamination existing at the State-owned Liberty State Park and from
certain soil shipments made to that Park in connection with the I-287
wetlands mitigation project; (6) an action challenging the State's
application of the "spousal impoverishment provisions" of the Medicare
Catastrophic Coverage Act governing the treatment of income and resources
available to the "community" spouse when an institutionalized spouse seeks to
establish Medicare eligibility; (7) a challenge by 18 New Jersey hospitals to
the State's Medicaid reimbursement procedures; (8) a series of challenges to
the construction and issuance of bonds to construct an Atlantic City road and
tunnel project including challenges based on alleged violations of (i) State
constitutional provisions limiting the use of certain revenues, (ii) federal
securities law disclosure requirements and (iii) certain federal and State
environmental requirements; (9) a breach of contract and civil rights action
brought against the State by Medicare part B service providers who seek
reimbursement for Medicare co-insurance and deductibles not paid by the State
Medicaid program from 1988 to February 10, 1995; (10) a suit brought by a
private resource recovery facility owner and operator against the State
Department of Environmental Protection and others, including the Camden
County Pollution Control Financing Authority ("CCPCFA"), seeking a halt to
the County's solid waste reprocurement process pending clarification of bid
specifications with a cross claim against the State
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brought by CCPCFA; (11) a challenge on State constitutional grounds to the
"family cap" provisions of the State Work First New Jersey Act brought on
behalf of all persons who did not receive an increase in certain welfare
benefits because of the cap; and (12) a challenge to a State contract award
made for the procurement of an enhanced motor vehicle inspection system
which, if system implementation is delayed, may expose the State to
significant federal sanctions including loss of federal transportation funds
and imposition of stricter air pollution standards.
Year 2000. Beginning in 1997, the State required all State departments to
develop three year action plans identifying all impacts expected from the
"Year 2000" problem potentially affecting computer operations as that year
draws near. External parties have been requested to provide similar plans.
Testing, validation and implementation of critical centrally maintained
systems was 55% complete as of June 30, 1998. As of that date, the State had
incurred expenses of approximately $55 million of $132 million estimated to
be needed to achieve Year 2000 compliance.
As of January 1999, the State's general obligation bonds were rated AA+ by
S&P and Fitch and Aa1 by Moody's.
THE NEW YORK SERIES -- SPECIAL INVESTMENT CONSIDERATIONS. Since the New
York Series concentrates its investments in New York tax-exempt securities,
the Fund is significantly affected by any political, economic or regulatory
developments affecting the ability of New York tax-exempt issuers to pay
interest or repay principal. Investors should be aware that certain issuers
of New York tax-exempt securities have experienced serious financial
difficulties in recent years. A reoccurrence of these difficulties may impair
the ability of certain New York issuers to maintain debt service on their
obligations.
The fiscal stability of New York State is related to the fiscal stability
of the State's municipalities, its Agencies and Authorities (which generally
finance, construct and operate revenue-producing public benefit facilities).
This is due in part to the fact that Agencies, Authorities and local
governments in financial trouble often seek State financial assistance. The
experience has been that if New York City or any of the Agencies or
Authorities suffers serious financial difficulty, both the ability of the
State, the City, the State's political subdivisions, the Agencies and the
Authorities to obtain financing in the public credit markets and the market
price of outstanding New York tax-exempt securities are adversely affected.
Over the long term, the State and City face potential economic problems.
The City accounts for a large portion of the State's population and personal
income, and the City's financial health affects the State in numerous ways.
The City continues to require significant financial assistance from the
State. The City depends on State aid both to enable the City to balance its
budget and to meet its cash requirements. The State could also be affected by
the ability of the City to market its securities successfully in the public
credit markets.
The economic and financial condition of the State also may be affected by
various financial, social, economic and political factors. Such factors can
be very complex, may vary from fiscal year to fiscal year and are frequently
the result of actions taken not only by the State and its agencies and
instrumentalities, but also by entities, such as the Federal government, that
are not under the control of the State.
The following summary information on risk factors in concentrating in New
York municipal obligations is based on publicly available official statements
relating to offerings of New York issuers of municipal securities on or prior
to December 15, 1998 with respect to offerings of the State and December 18,
1998 with respect to offerings of the City, and it does not purport to be a
complete description of the considerations contained therein. No
representation is made as to the accuracy of such information.
During the mid-1970's, New York State, some of its agencies,
instrumentalities and public benefit corporations, and certain of its
municipalities faced serious financial difficulties. To address many of these
financial problems, the State developed various programs, many of which were
successful in ameliorating the financial crisis. Any further financial
problems experienced by these Authorities or municipalities could have a
direct adverse effect on the New York Municipal Obligations in which the Fund
invests.
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New York City. The national economic downturn which began in July 1990
adversely affected the local economy, which had been declining since late
1989. As a result, New York City experienced job losses in 1990 and 1991 and
real Gross City Product (GCP) fell in those two years. For the 1992 fiscal
year, the City closed a projected budget gap of $3.3 billion in order to
achieve a balanced budget as required by the laws of the State. Beginning in
1992, the improvement in the national economy helped stabilize conditions in
the City. Employment losses moderated toward year-end and real GCP increased,
boosted by strong wage gains. After noticeable improvements in the City's
economy during calendar year 1994, economic growth slowed in 1995 and
thereafter improved commencing in calendar year 1996, reflecting improved
securities industry earnings and employment in other sectors. Overall, the
City's economic improvement accelerated significantly in 1997 and 1998. The
City's current financial plan assumes that, after strong growth in 1997-1998,
moderate economic growth will exist through calendar year 2002, with moderate
job growth and wage increases.
For each of the 1981 through 1998 fiscal years, the City had an operating
surplus, before discretionary and other transfers, and achieved balanced
operating results as reported in accordance with then applicable generally
accepted accounting principles ("GAAP"). The City has been required to close
substantial gaps between forecast revenues and forecast expenditures in order
to maintain balanced operating results. There can be no assurance that the
City will continue to maintain balanced operating results as required by
State law without tax or other revenue increases or reductions in City
services or entitlement programs, which could adversely affect the City's
economic base.
1999-2002 New York City Financial Plan. The Mayor is responsible for
preparing the City's four-year financial plan including the current financial
plan for the 1999 through 2002 fiscal years (the "1999-2002 Financial Plan,"
the "Financial Plan" or "City Plan").
The Financial Plan projects revenues and expenditures for the 1999 fiscal
year balanced in accordance with GAAP. The Financial Plan takes into account
an increase in projected tax revenues in 1999 and 2000 and a decrease in
projected tax revenues in 2001 and 2002; an increase in planned expenditures
for health insurance; a decrease in projected pension expenditures; and other
agency spending increases. In addition, the Financial Plan includes a
proposed discretionary transfer to the 1999 fiscal year of $465 million to
pay debt service due in fiscal year 2000. The Financial Plan also sets forth
projections for the 2000 through 2002 fiscal years and projects gaps of $2.2
billion, $2.9 billion and $2.4 billion for the 2000 through 2002 fiscal
years, respectively.
The Financial Plan assumes (i) approval by the Governor and the State
Legislature of the extension of the 14% personal income tax surcharge, which
is scheduled to expire on December 31, 1999, and which is projected to
provide revenue of $183 million, $524 million and $544 million in the 2000,
2001 and 2002 fiscal years, respectively; and (ii) collection of the
projected rent payments for the City's airports, totaling $6 million, $365
million, $155 million and $185 million in the 1999 through 2002 fiscal years
respectively, a substantial portion of which may depend on the successful
completion of negotiations with The Port Authority of New York and New Jersey
or on the enforcement of the City's rights under the existing leases through
pending legal actions. The Financial Plan provides no additional wage
increases for the City employees after their contracts expire in fiscal years
2000 and 2001. In addition, the economic and financial condition of the City
may be affected by various financial, social, economic and political factors
which could have a material effect on the City.
On July 23, 1998, the New York State Comptroller issued a report which
noted that a significant cause for concern is the budget gaps in the
1999-2000 and 2000-2001 fiscal years, which the State Comptroller projected
at $1.8 billion and $5.5 billion, respectively, after excluding the uncertain
receipt by the State of $250 million of funds from the tobacco settlement
assumed for each of such fiscal years, as well as the unspecified actions
assumed in the State's projections. The State Comptroller also stated that if
the securities industry or economy slows, the size of the gaps would
increase.
The City depends on the State for State aid both to enable the City to
balance its budget and to meet its cash requirements. There can be no
assurance that there will not be reductions in State aid to the City from
amounts currently projected; that the State budgets in future fiscal years
will be adopted by the April 1 statutory deadline, or interim appropriations
enacted; or that any such reductions or delays will not have adverse effects
on the City's cash flow or expenditures.
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The City's projections set forth in the City Plan are based on various
assumptions and contingencies which are uncertain and which may not
materialize.
Implementation of the Financial Plan is also dependent upon the City's
ability to market its securities successfully. The City's financing program
for fiscal years 1999 through 2002 contemplates the issuance of $5.2 billion
of general obligation bonds and $5.4 billion of bonds to be issued by the New
York City Transitional Finance Authority to finance City capital projects.
The Finance Authority was created to assist the City in financing its capital
program while keeping the City's indebtedness within the forecast level of
the constitutional restrictions on the amount of debt the City is authorized
to incur. In addition, the City issues revenue and tax anticipation notes to
finance its seasonal working capital requirements. The success of projected
public sales of City bonds and notes, New York City Municipal Water Finance
Authority bonds and Finance Authority bonds will be subject to prevailing
market conditions. The City's planned capital and operating expenditures are
dependent upon the sale of its general obligation bonds and notes, and the
Water Authority and Finance Authority bonds. Future developments concerning
the City and public discussion of such developments, as well as prevailing
market conditions, may affect the market for outstanding City general
obligation bonds and notes.
The City Comptroller and other agencies and public officials issue reports
and make public statements which, among other things, state that projected
revenues and expenditures may be different from those forecasted in the City
Plan. It is reasonable to expect that such reports and statements will
continue to be issued and to engender public comment.
Ratings. Moody's has rated the City's general obligation bonds A3. S&P has
rated such bonds A-. Fitch IBCA, Inc. has rated such bonds A-. Such ratings
reflect only the views of these rating agencies, from which an explanation of
the significance of such ratings may be obtained. There is no assurance that
such ratings will continue for any given period of time or that they will not
be revised downward or withdrawn entirely. Any such downward revision or
withdrawal could have an adverse effect on the market prices of bonds. On
July 16, 1998, S&P revised its rating of City bonds upward to A-. Moody's
rating of City bonds was revised in February 1998 to A3 from Baa1. Moody's,
S&P and Fitch currently rate the City's outstanding general obligation bonds
A3, A-and A-, respectively.
Outstanding Net Indebtedness. As of September 30, 1998, the City and the
Municipal Assistance Corporation for the City of New York had, respectively,
$26.391 billion and $3.141 billion of outstanding net long-term debt.
Litigation. The City is a defendant in lawsuits pertaining to material
matters, including claims asserted which are incidental to performing routine
governmental and other functions. This litigation includes, but is not
limited to, actions commenced and claims asserted against the City arising
out of alleged torts, alleged breaches of contracts, alleged violations of
law and condemnation proceedings. As of June 30, 1998 and 1997, claims in
excess of $472 billion and $530 billion, respectively, were outstanding
against the City for which the City estimates its potential future liability
to be $3.5 billion for both fiscal years 1998 and 1997.
Year 2000 (New York City). The year 2000 presents potential operational
problems for computerized data files and computer programs which may
recognize the year 2000 as the year 1900, resulting in possible system
failures or miscalculations. In November 1996, the City's Year 2000 Project
Office was established to develop a project methodology, coordinate the
efforts of City agencies, review plans and oversee implementation of year
2000 projects. At that time, the City also evaluated the capabilities of the
City's Integrated Financial Management System and Capital Projects
Information System, which are the City's central accounting, budgeting and
payroll systems, identified the potential impact of the year 2000 on these
systems, and developed a plan to replace these systems with a new system
which is expected to be year 2000 compliant prior to December 31, 1999. The
City has also performed an assessment of its other mission-critical and high
priority computer systems in connection with making them year 2000 compliant,
and the City's agencies have developed and begun to implement both strategic
and operational plans for non-compliant application systems. In addition, the
City Comptroller is conducting audits of the progress of City agencies in
achieving year 2000 compliance. The Financial Plan includes
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$148 million, and the City's capital budget includes $150 million for the
1999 through 2002 fiscal years for the year 2000 project. While these efforts
may involve additional costs beyond those assumed in the Financial Plan, the
City believes, based on currently available information, that such additional
costs will not be material.
The City's goal is to complete remediation or replacement of all
mission-critical and high priority systems before or during the 1999 calendar
year in sufficient time for testing to be completed by the end of the 1999
calendar year. Review of system requirements, and procurement of necessary
replacement or enhanced systems, have been ongoing for several years. The
Mayor's Office of Operations has stated that work has been completed, and all
or part of the necessary testing has been performed, on approximately 49% of
the mission-critical and high priority systems of Mayoral agencies. Problems
may be identified during the remediation process that could result in delays,
the City's computer systems may not all be year 2000 compliant in a timely
manner and there could be an adverse impact on City operations or revenues as
a result. The City is in the process of developing contingency plans for all
mission-critical and high priority systems of Mayoral agencies, if such
systems are not year 2000 compliant by predetermined dates. The City is also
in the process of contacting its significant third party vendors, including
State and Federal Governments, regarding the year 2000 issue and the status
of their compliance. Year 2000 compliance by third parties is not within the
City's control, and therefore the City cannot assure the timing of such
efforts or that there will not be any adverse effects on the City resulting
from any failure of these third parties to achieve year 2000 compliance.
The foregoing represents a "year 2000 readiness disclosure" for purposes
of the Year 2000 Information and Readiness Disclosure Act.
New York State. Recent Developments. The national economy has maintained a
robust rate of growth, with over 16.5 million jobs added nationally since
early 1992. The State economy has continued to expand, but growth remains
somewhat slower than in the nation. Although the State has added
approximately 400,000 jobs since late 1992, employment growth in the State
has been hindered during recent years by significant cutbacks in the computer
and instrument manufacturing, utility, defense and banking industries.
Government downsizing has also moderated these job gains. The forecast of the
State's economy shows continued expansion during the 1998 calendar year, with
employment growth gradually slowing as the year progresses. The financial and
business service sectors are expected to do well, while employment in the
manufacturing and government sectors will post only small, if any, declines.
On an average annual basis, employment growth in the State is expected to be
higher than in 1997 and the unemployment rate is expected to drop further to
6.1%. Personal income is expected to record moderate gains in 1998. Wage
growth in 1998 is expected to be slower than in the previous year as the
recent robust growth in bonus payments moderates.
The forecast for continued growth, and any resultant impact on the
1997-1998 New York State Financial Plan (the "State Plan"), contains some
uncertainties. Stronger-than-expected gains in employment and wages could
lead to surprisingly strong growth in consumer spending. Investments could
also remain robust. Conversely, net exports could plunge even more sharply
than expected, with adverse impacts on the growth of both consumer spending
and investment. The inflation rate may differ significantly from expectations
due to the upward pressure of a tight labor market and the downward pressure
of price reductions emanating from the economic weakness in Asia. In
addition, the State economic forecast could over-or under-estimate the level
of future bonus payments or inflation growth, resulting in forecasted average
wage growth that could differ significantly from actual growth. Similarly,
the State forecast could fail to correctly account for declines in banking
employment and the direction of employment change that is likely to accompany
telecommunications and energy deregulation.
The 1998-99 Fiscal Year. The State's General Fund (the major operating
fund of the State) was projected in the State Plan to be balanced on a cash
basis for the 1998-1999 fiscal year. Total receipts and transfers from other
funds are projected to reach $37.84 billion, an increase of over $3 billion
from the prior fiscal year, and disbursements and transfers to other funds
are projected to be $36.78 billion, an increase of $2.43 billion from the
total disbursed in the prior fiscal year.
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Projections of total State receipts in the State Plan are based on the
State structure in effect during the fiscal year and on assumptions relating
to basic economic factors and their historical relationships to State tax
receipts. In preparing projections of State receipts, economic forecasts
relating to personal income, wages, consumption, profits and employment have
been particularly important. The projection of receipts from most tax or
revenue sources is generally made by estimating the change in yield of such
tax or revenue source caused by economic and other factors, rather than by
estimating the total yield of such tax or revenue source from its estimated
tax base. The forecasting methodology, however, ensures that State fiscal
year collection estimates for taxes that are based on a computation of annual
liability, such as the business and personal income taxes, are consistent
with estimates of total liability under such taxes.
Projections of total State disbursements are based on assumptions relating
to economic and demographic factors, levels of disbursements for various
services provided by local governments (where the cost is partially
reimbursed by the State), and the results of various administrative and
statutory mechanisms in controlling disbursements for State operations.
Factors that may affect the level of disbursements in the fiscal year include
uncertainties relating to the economy of the nation and the State, the
policies of the federal government and changes in the demand for and use of
State services.
In recent years, State actions affecting the level of receipts and
disbursements, the relative strength of the State and regional economy and
actions of the federal government have helped to create projected structural
budget gaps for the State. These gaps result from a significant disparity
between recurring revenues and the costs of maintaining or increasing the
level of support for State programs. To address a potential imbalance in any
given fiscal year, the State would be required to take actions to increase
receipts and/or reduce disbursements as it enacts the budget for that year,
and under the State Constitution, the Governor is required to propose a
balanced budget each year. There can be no assurance, however, that the
Legislature will enact the Governor's proposals or that the State's actions
will be sufficient to preserve budgetary balance in a given fiscal year or to
align recurring receipts and disbursements in future fiscal years.
New York Local Government Assistance Corporation. In 1990, as part of a
State fiscal reform program, legislation was enacted creating the New York
Loan Government Assistance Corporation ("LGAC"), a public benefit corporation
empowered to issue long-term obligations to fund certain payments to local
governments traditionally funded through the State's annual seasonal
borrowing. The legislation empowered LGAC to issue bonds and notes in an
amount not in excess of $4.7 billion (exclusive of certain refunding bonds).
Over a period of years, the issuance of those long-term obligations, which
will be amortized over no more than 30 years, is expected to result in
eliminating the need for continuing short-term seasonal borrowing. The
legislation also dedicated revenues equal to one-quarter of the four cent
State sales and use tax to pay debt service on these bonds. The legislation
also imposed a cap on the annual seasonal borrowing of the State at $4.7
billion, less net proceeds of bonds issued by LGAC and bonds issued to
provide for capitalized interest, except in cases where the Governor and the
legislative leaders have certified both the need for additional borrowing and
provided a schedule for reducing it to the cap. If borrowing above the cap is
thus permitted in any fiscal year, it is required by law to be reduced to the
cap by the fourth fiscal year after the limit was first exceeded. This
provision capping the seasonal borrowing was included as a covenant with
LGAC's bondholders in the resolution authorizing such bonds.
As of June 1995, LGAC had issued bonds and notes to provide net proceeds
of $4.7 billion completing the program. The impact of LGAC's borrowings, as
well as other changes in revenue and spending patterns, is that the State has
been able to meet its cash flow needs throughout the fiscal year without
relying on short-term seasonal borrowings.
Composition of State Cash Governmental Funds Group. Substantially all
State non-pension financial operations are accounted for in the State's
governmental funds group. Governmental funds include: (i) the General Fund,
which receives all income not required by law to be deposited in another
fund; (ii) Special Revenue Funds, which receive the preponderance of moneys
received by the State from the Federal government and other income the use of
which is legally restricted to certain purposes;
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(iii) Capital Projects Funds, used to finance the acquisition and
construction of major capital facilities by the State and to aid in certain
of such projects conducted by local governments or public authorities; and
(iv) Debt Service Funds, which are used for the accumulation of moneys for
the payment of principal of and interest on long-term debt and to meet
lease-purchase and other contractual-obligation commitments.
Authorities. The fiscal stability of the State is related to the fiscal
stability of its public Authorities. Authorities have various
responsibilities, including those which finance, construct and/or operate
revenue-producing public facilities. Authorities are not subject to the
constitutional restrictions on the incurrence of debt which apply to the
State itself, and may issue bonds and notes within the amounts and
restrictions set forth in their legislative authorization. As of December 31,
1997, there were 17 Authorities that had outstanding debt of $100 million or
more and the aggregate outstanding debt, including refunding bonds, of all
Authorities was $84 billion, only a portion of which constitutes
State-supported or State-related debt.
Authorities are generally supported by revenues generated by the projects
financed or operated, such as tolls charged for use of highways, bridges or
tunnels, charges for electric power, electric and gas utility services,
rentals charged for housing units and charges for occupancy at medical care
facilities. In addition, State legislation authorizes several financing
techniques for Authorities. Also, there are statutory arrangements providing
for State local assistance payments otherwise payable to localities to be
made under certain circumstances to Authorities. Although the State has no
obligation to provide additional assistance to localities whose local
assistance payments have been paid to Authorities under these arrangements,
if local assistance payments are diverted the affected localities could seek
additional State assistance. Some Authorities also receive moneys from State
appropriations to pay for the operating costs of certain of their programs.
Ratings. S&P rates the State's general obligation bonds A, and Moody's
rates the State's general obligation bonds A2. Ratings reflect only the
respective views of such organizations, and an explanation of the
significance of such ratings must be obtained from the rating agency
furnishing the same. There is no assurance that a particular rating will
continue for any given period of time or that any such rating will not be
revised downward or withdrawn entirely if, in the judgment of the agency
originally establishing the rating, circumstances so warrant. A downward
revision or withdrawal of such ratings, or either of them, may have an effect
on the market price of the State Municipal Obligations in which the New York
Series invests.
General Obligation Debt. As of March 31, 1998, the State had outstanding
approximately $5.03 billion in general obligation bonds, including $294
million in bond anticipation notes outstanding. Principal and interest due on
general obligation bonds and interest due on bond anticipation notes were
$749.6 million for the 1998-99 fiscal year and are estimated to be $695
million for the State's 1999-2000 fiscal year.
Litigation. The State is a defendant in numerous legal proceedings
pertaining to matters incidental to the performance of routine governmental
operations. Such litigation includes, but is not limited to, claims asserted
against the State arising from alleged torts, alleged breaches of contracts,
condemnation proceedings and other alleged violations of State and Federal
laws. These proceedings could affect adversely the financial condition of the
State in the 1998-1999 fiscal year or thereafter.
The State believes that the State Plan includes sufficient reserves for
the payment of judgments that may be required during the 1998-99 fiscal year.
There can be no assurance, however, that an adverse decision in any of these
proceedings would not exceed the amount of all potential State Plan reserves
available for the payment of judgments and, therefore, could affect the
ability of the State to maintain a balanced 1998-1999 State Plan. The General
Purpose Financial Statements for the 1997-1998 fiscal year report estimated
probable awarded and anticipated unfavorable judgments of $872 million, of
which $90 million is expected to be paid during the 1998-1999 fiscal year.
In addition, the State is party to other claims and litigations which its
legal counsel has advised are not probable of adverse court decisions or are
not deemed adverse and material. Although the amounts of potential losses, if
any, are not presently determinable, it is the State's opinion that its
ultimate liability in these cases is not expected to have a material adverse
effect on the State's financial position in the 1998-99 fiscal year or
thereafter.
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Other Localities. Certain localities in addition to the City could have
financial problems leading to requests for additional State assistance during
the State's current fiscal year and thereafter. The potential impact on the
State of such actions by localities is not included in the projections of the
State receipts and disbursements in the State's 1998-99 fiscal year.
Year 2000 (New York State). New York State is currently addressing "Year
2000" data processing compliance issues. The Year 2000 compliance issue
("Y2K") arises because most computer software programs allocate two digits to
the data field for "year" on the assumption that the first two digits will be
"19". Such programs will thus interpret the year 2000 as the year 1900 absent
reprogramming. Y2K could impact both the ability to enter data into computer
programs and the ability of such programs to correctly process data.
In 1996, the State created the Office for Technology (OFT) to help address
statewide technology issues, including the Year 2000 issue. OFT has estimated
that investments of at least $140 million will be required to bring
approximately 350 State mission-critical and high-priority computer systems
not otherwise scheduled for replacement into Year 2000 compliance, and the
State is planning to spend $100 million in the 1998-99 fiscal year for this
purpose. Mission-critical computer applications are those which impact the
health, safety and welfare of the State and its citizens, and for which
failure to be in Y2K compliance could have a material and adverse impact upon
State operations. High-priority computer applications are those that are
critical for a State agency to fulfill its mission and deliver services, but
for which there are manual alternatives. Work has been completed on roughly
20 percent of these systems. All remaining unfinished mission-critical and
high-priority systems have at least 40 percent or more of the work completed.
Contingency planning is underway for those systems which may be non-compliant
prior to failure dates. The enacted budget also continues funding for major
systems scheduled for replacement, including the State payroll, civil
service, tax and finance and welfare management systems, for which Year 2000
compliance is included as a part of the project.
OFT is monitoring compliance on a quarterly basis and is providing
assistance and assigning resources to accelerate compliance for mission
critical systems, with most compliance testing expected to be completed by
mid-1999. There can be no guarantee, however, that all of the State's
mission-critical and high-priority computer systems will be Year 2000
compliant and that there will not be an adverse impact upon State operations
or State finances as a result.
THE OHIO SERIES -- SPECIAL INVESTMENT CONSIDERATIONS. Although
manufacturing (including auto-related manufacturing) in Ohio remains an
important part of the State's economy, the greatest growth in employment in
Ohio in recent years, consistent with national trends, has been in the
non-manufacturing area. Ohio ranked third in the nation in 1996 gross state
product derived from manufacturing. Manufacturing was 27.2% of Ohio's gross
state product compared to 17.7% of that total being from "services". As a
result, economic activity in Ohio, as in many other industrially developed
states, tends to be more cyclical than in some other states and in the nation
as a whole. Agriculture also is an important segment of the economy in the
State. With 15 million acres (of a total land area of 26.4 million acres) in
farm land and an estimated 73,000 individual farms, it is by many measures
Ohio's leading industry, contributing nearly $5.7 billion to the State's
economy each year. This represents almost 13% of the total output, 15.9% of
the total employment (approximately 935,000 jobs) and 11% of the value-added
products produced in the State. Gross farm income alone amounted in 1996 to
just under $5.7 billion. In 1996, Ohio exported over approximately $1.6
billion in farm products (primarily soybeans and related soy products, and
feed grains). The State has instituted several programs to provide financial
assistance to farmers.
Ohio continues as a major "headquarters" state. Of the top 500 individual
corporations (industrial, commercial and service) based on 1997 sales as
reported in 1998 by Fortune magazine, 30 had headquarters in Ohio, placing
Ohio fifth as a "headquarters" state.
Payroll employment in Ohio, in the diversifying employment base, showed a
steady upward trend until 1979, then decreased until 1982. It reached a high
in the summer of 1993 after a slight decrease in 1992, then decreased
slightly and reached a new high in 1998. Growth in recent years has been
concentrated among non-manufacturing industries, with manufacturing
employment tapering off since its 1969 peak. Non-manufacturing industries now
employ approximately 80% of all non-agricultural payroll workers in Ohio.
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Consistent with the Ohio constitutional provision that no appropriation
may be made for a period longer than two years, the State operates on the
basis of a fiscal biennium for its appropriations and expenditures. Under
current law that biennium for operating purposes runs from July 1 in an
odd-numbered year to June 30 in the next odd-numbered year; for example, the
current fiscal biennium began July 1, 1997 and ends June 30, 1999.
The Ohio Constitution imposes a duty on the General Assembly to "provide
for raising revenue, sufficient to defray the expenses of the state, for each
year, and also a sufficient sum to pay the principal and interest as they
become due on the state debt." The State is effectively precluded by law from
ending a Fiscal Year or a biennium in a "deficit" position. State borrowing
to meet casual deficits or failures in revenues or to meet expenses not
otherwise provided for is limited by the Ohio Constitution to $750,000.
Most State operations are financed through the general revenue fund (GRF),
with personal income and sales-use taxes being the major GRF sources,
totaling $6.9 billion and $5.5 billion in 1998, respectively.
The Ohio Revised Code provides that if the Governor ascertains that the
available revenue receipts and balances for the GRF or other funds for the
then current Fiscal Year will in all probability be less than the
appropriations for the year, he shall issue such orders to State agencies as
will prevent their expenditures and incurred obligations from exceeding those
revenue receipts and balances. The Governor implemented this directive in
some prior years, including Fiscal Years 1992 and 1993. There is no present
constitutional limit on the rates of State-levied taxes and excises, except
for taxes on intangible property. At present the State itself does not levy
any ad valorem taxes on real or tangible personal property. Those taxes are
levied by local political subdivisions. The Ohio Constitution limits the
amount of ad valorem property taxes that may be levied by local political
subdivisions in the aggregate, without a vote of the electors or a municipal
charter provision, to 1% of the true value, and statutes further limit the
amount of the aggregate levy, without a vote or charter provision, to 10
mills per $1 of assessed valuation.
The GRF ending (June 30) fund balance is typically reduced during less
favorable national economic periods and then increases during more favorable
economic periods. For example, following the 1974-75 nationwide recession the
1977 GRF ending fund balance was $21.6 million. The balance (without
assistance from any significant tax rate increases) was $245.7 million in
1979, and then, paralleling the national economic situation, was at the
significantly lower amount of $200 million in 1981. Recent biennium GRF
ending fund balances were $135.3 million in 1991, $111 million in 1993, and
$928 million in 1995. For the Biennium ended June 30, 1997, the GRF fund
balance was $834.9 million. Of that amount, $34.4 million was transferred to
the Budget Stabilization Fund (BSF).
The GRF appropriations bill for the 1998-99 biennium was passed on June
25, 1997, and promptly signed, with selective vetoes, by the Governor. The
act provides for total GRF biennial expenditures of approximately $36
billion, an increase over those for the 1996-97 fiscal biennium ($33.5
billion). Subsequent legislation increased by approximately 2.73% the GRF
Fiscal Year 1999 appropriation level for elementary and secondary education,
to be funded in part by mandated small (0.5-3%) reductions in State
appropriations for various State agencies and institutions; expressly exempt
from those deductions are all appropriations for debt service, including
lease rental payments.
Necessary GRF debt service and lease-rental appropriations for the entire
biennium were requested in the Governor's budget proposal and incorporated in
the related appropriations bill as introduced, and in the bill's versions as
passed by the House and the Senate and in the act as passed and signed. The
same is true for the separate Department of Transportation, Department of
Public Safety, and Bureau of Workers' Compensation appropriations acts,
containing lease-rental appropriations for certain DOT, DPS and BWC projects
financed by the Ohio Building Authority.
Although revenue obligations of the State or its political subdivisions
may be payable from a specific project or source, including lease rentals,
there can be no assurance that, as in any state, future economic difficulties
and the resulting impact on State and local government finances will not
adversely affect the market value of the Bonds in the portfolio of the Ohio
Series or the ability of the respective obligors to make timely payments of
principal and interest on such Bonds.
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The June 30, 1998 ending fund balance in the GRF was over $1.08 billion.
Of that amount, approximately $700 million was transferred to a State income
tax reduction fund, $200 million to public school assistance programs, and
additional transfers were made to the BSF.
In 1981, a Budget Stabilization Fund (BSF) was created for purposes of
cash and budgetary management. In 1992, the entire balance of the BSF was
transferred to the GRF. The BSF has a current balance of approximately $906
million.
Litigation, similar to that in other states, has been pending questioning
the constitutionality of Ohio's system of school funding. The Ohio Supreme
Court concluded in a 1997 decision that major aspects of the system
(including basic operating assistance and certain loan programs) are
unconstitutional. It ordered the State to provide for and fund sufficiently a
system complying with the Ohio Constitution, staying its order to permit time
for responsive corrective actions by the General Assembly. The Court has
indicated that property taxes may still play a role in, but "can no longer be
the primary means" of, school funding. The Court also confirmed that
contractual repayment provisions of certain debt obligations issued for
school funding will remain valid after the stay terminates. Subsequent
hearings at the trial court level have taken place. The parties await the
trial court decision on the adequacy of steps taken to date by the State to
enhance school funding consistent with the Supreme Court decision.
As part of its response, the General Assembly has increased State funding
for public schools, as described above. In addition, the General Assembly
placed two issues on the May 1998 primary ballot. Neither was approved by the
voters. One was a constitutional amendment authorizing additional State debt
issuing capacity and the other an increase in the State sales tax. The
constitutional amendment would have authorized State general obligation debt
to pay costs of school facilities throughout the State and of facilities of
state institutions of higher education. The sales tax proposal would have
increased the State sales and use tax from 5% to 6%, estimated to generate
over $1 billion; one-half of increased revenues would have been applied to
pay costs of school operations and facilities, and the other half to
additional homestead property tax relief.
Litigation is also pending in federal district court challenging the
former Medicaid eligibility rules that were applied between 1990 and 1995 by
the Ohio Department of Human Services in the case of married couples where
one spouse lived in a nursing home and the other spouse resided in the
community. If the plaintiffs in that action are ultimately successful, it is
estimated that the State could be required to incur additional obligations of
as much as $240 million. At this time, the outcome of such litigation is
uncertain.
Year 2000. Major offices of the State have had under way extensive efforts
and programs to identify and assess, and remediate when necessary, "year
2000" problems involving data processing systems and other systems and
equipment critical to continued and uninterrupted State operations. Among the
areas addressed by the State Treasurer's office, for example, are the paying
agent and trustee relationships with respect to State bonds and investments.
Overall, those involved State offices and agencies are satisfied that
material areas for which they are responsible and that may require
remediation have been and are being identified and will timely be addressed,
and that the costs of remediation will be within moneys available and
appropriated. Obviously, however, the success of these remediation efforts,
by the State and by pertinent outside parties, will not be fully determined
until the year 2000 and thereafter.
The summary information furnished above is based on official statements
prepared by the State of Ohio in connection with its borrowings and contains
such information as the Fund deems relevant in considering an investment in
the Fund. It does not purport to be a complete description of the
considerations contained therein.
THE PENNSYLVANIA SERIES -- SPECIAL INVESTMENT CONSIDERATIONS. Presented
below is information concerning the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania and certain
issuers within the Commonwealth. Such information is based principally on
information drawn from recent official statements relating to securities
offerings by the Commonwealth and does not purport to be a complete
description of such issuers or factors that could adversely affect them. The
Investment Manager has not independently verified such information; however,
it has no reason to believe that such information is not correct in all
material respects. This information does not cover all municipal issuers
within the Commonwealth whose securities may be purchased by the Fund.
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Investment Securities. The Pennsylvania Series will invest principally in
Commonwealth and Commonwealth-related obligations and obligations of local
government units in the Commonwealth and obligations of related authorities.
The market value and marketability of the obligations of the Commonwealth
and, though generally to a lesser extent, the Commonwealth-related
obligations and the local governmental unit and related authority obligations
generally will be affected by economic conditions affecting the Commonwealth
and litigation matters which may adversely affect the Commonwealth. The
market value and marketability of obligations of issuers other than the
Commonwealth may also be affected by more localized economic changes, changes
affecting the particular revenue stream supporting such obligations and
related litigation matters.
The City of Philadelphia has experienced financial difficulties in the
past, as a result of which Moody's and S&P lowered their ratings of City of
Philadelphia general obligations below investment grade. Both Moody's and S&P
have since raised their ratings of City of Philadelphia general obligations
to Baa2 and BBB, respectively. Consequently, such obligations are currently
investment grade.
General Socio-Economic and Economic Information Regarding the
Commonwealth. The Commonwealth is the fifth most populous state (ranking
behind California, New York, Texas and Florida) with a population of
approximately 12 million for the last ten years. The Commonwealth is the
headquarters for many major corporations. It has been historically identified
as a heavy industry state although that reputation has changed over the last
30 years as the industrial composition of the Commonwealth diversified when
the coal, steel and railroad industries began to decline. The major new
sources of growth in the Commonwealth are in the service sector, including
trade, medical and health services, education and financial institutions.
Manufacturing employment has fallen from 18.8% of non-agricultural employment
in 1992 to 17.3% in 1997, while service sector employment has increased from
29.4% of non-agricultural employment in 1991 to 31.6% in 1997. From 1983 to
1990, the Commonwealth's annual average unemployment rate dropped from 11.8%
to 5.4% (below the national average for each of the years from 1986). In 1996
and 1997, the average annual unemployment rates for the Commonwealth were
5.3% and 5.2%, respectively, compared to rates of 5.4% and 4.9% for the
United States for such years.
The Commonwealth utilizes the fund method of accounting. For purposes of
governmental accounting, a "fund" is defined as an independent fiscal and
accounting entity with a self-balancing set of accounts, for the purpose of
carrying on specific activities or attaining certain objectives in accordance
with the fund's special regulations, restrictions or limitations. In the
Commonwealth, funds are established by legislative enactment or in certain
cases by administrative action.
The General Fund, the Commonwealth's largest fund, receives all tax
revenues, non-tax revenues and federal grants and entitlements that are not
specified by law to be deposited elsewhere. The majority of the
Commonwealth's operating and administrative expenses are payable from the
General Fund. Debt service on all Commonwealth obligations, except those
issued for highway purposes or for the benefit of other special revenue
funds, is payable from the General Fund.
Revenues in the General Fund include all tax receipts, license and fee
payments, fines, penalties, interest and other revenues of the Commonwealth
not specified to be deposited elsewhere or not restricted to a specific
program or expenditure and federal revenues. Taxes levied by the Commonwealth
are the most significant source of revenues in the General Fund. The major
tax sources for the General Fund are the sales tax, which accounted for $6.15
billion or 34.6% of General Fund tax revenues in fiscal 1998, the personal
income tax, which accounted for $6.24 billion or 35.3% of 1998 General Fund
tax revenues, and the corporate taxes which accounted for $2.73 billion or
15.4% of tax revenues. Federal revenues are those federal receipts which pay
or reimburse the Commonwealth for funds disbursed for federally assisted
programs.
The primary expenditures of the General Fund are for education ($7.53
billion in fiscal 1998) and public health and welfare ($6.0 billion).
The Constitution and laws of the Commonwealth require all payments from
the General Fund, with the exception of refunds of taxes, licenses, fees and
other charges, to be made only by duly enacted
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appropriations. Amounts appropriated from the General Fund may not exceed its
actual and estimated revenues for the fiscal year plus any surplus available.
Appropriations are generally made for one fiscal year and are returned to the
unappropriated surplus of the fund (a lapse) if not spent or encumbered by
the end of the fiscal year. The Commonwealth's fiscal year begins July 1 and
ends June 30. (Fiscal 1998 refers to the fiscal year ending June 30, 1998.)
For the five year period fiscal 1993 through fiscal 1997, total revenues
and other resources rose at a 4.7 percent average annual rate while total
expenditures and other uses grew by 4.9 percent annually.
Program areas having the largest increase in costs for the fiscal 1993 to
fiscal 1997 period were for protection of persons and property, due to an
expansion of state prisons. Recently, efforts to control costs of public
health and welfare programs have resulted in expenditure increases of 5.7
percent for the five year period.
The Constitution requires tax and fee revenues relating to motor fuels and
vehicles to be used for highway purposes, and the tax revenues relating to
aviation fuels to be used for aviation purposes. Accordingly, all such
revenues, except the revenues from one-half cent per gallon of the liquid
fuels tax which are deposited in the Liquid Fuels Tax Fund for distribution
to local municipalities, are placed in the Motor License Fund, as are most
federal aid revenues designated for transportation programs. Operating and
administrative costs for the Department of Transportation and other
Commonwealth departments conducting transportation related programs,
including the highway patrol activities of the Pennsylvania State Police, are
also paid from the Motor License Fund. Debt service on bonds issued by the
Commonwealth for highway purposes is payable from the Motor License Fund.
Other special revenue funds have been established by law to receive
specified revenues that are appropriated to specific departments, boards
and/or commissions for payment of their operating and administrative costs.
Such funds include the Game, Fish, Boating, Banking Department, Milk
Marketing, State Farm Products Show, State Racing and State Lottery Funds.
Some of these special revenue funds are required to transfer excess revenues
to the General Fund and some receive funding, in addition to their specified
revenues, through appropriations from the General Fund.
In 1986, the General Assembly created the Tax Stabilization Reserve Fund
and provided for its initial funding from General Fund appropriations. Income
for this fund comes from annual appropriations of money from other
Commonwealth funds and investment earnings. The Tax Stabilization Reserve
Fund is to be used for emergencies threatening the health, safety or welfare
of citizens or to offset unanticipated revenue shortfalls due to economic
downturns. Assets of this fund may be used upon recommendation by the
Governor and an approving vote by two-thirds of the members of each house of
the General Assembly.
The State Lottery Fund is a special revenue fund for the receipt of
lottery ticket sales and lottery licenses and fees. Its revenues, after
payment of prizes, are dedicated to paying the operational and administrative
costs of the lottery and the costs of programs benefiting the elderly in
Pennsylvania.
The Commonwealth maintains trust and agency funds which are used to
administer funds received pursuant to a specific bequest or as an agent for
other governmental units or individuals.
Enterprise funds are maintained for departments or programs operated like
private enterprises. The largest of these funds is the State Stores Fund
which is used for the receipts and disbursements of the Commonwealth's liquor
store system. Sale and distribution of all liquor within Pennsylvania is a
government enterprise.
The following information, which is based principally on information drawn
from recent Official Statements relating to securities offerings by the
Commonwealth, provides information regarding certain Pennsylvania issuers of
investment securities.
State and Certain State-related Obligations. The Constitutional provisions
pertaining to Commonwealth debt permit the issuance of the following types of
debt: (i) debt to suppress insurrection or rehabilitate areas affected by
disaster, (ii) electorate approved debt, (iii) debt for capital projects,
subject
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to an aggregate debt limit of 1.75 times the annual average tax revenues of
the preceding five fiscal years, and (iv) tax anticipation note debt payable
in the fiscal year of issuance. All debt except tax anticipation note debt
must be amortized in substantial and regular amounts.
The Commonwealth may incur debt to fund capital projects for community
colleges, highways, public improvements, transportation assistance, flood
control, redevelopment assistance, site development and the Pennsylvania
Industrial Development Authority. Before a project may be funded, it must be
itemized in a capital budget bill adopted by the General Assembly. An annual
capital budget bill states the maximum amount of debt for capital projects
that may be incurred during the current fiscal year for projects authorized
in the current or previous years' capital budget bills. Capital projects debt
is subject to a Constitutional limit on debt. Once capital projects debt has
been authorized by the necessary legislation, issuance authority rests with
two of the Issuing Officials (the Governor, the Auditor General and the State
Treasurer), one of whom must be the Governor.
The issuance of electorate approved debt is subject to the enactment of
legislation which places on the ballot the question of whether debt shall be
incurred. Such legislation must state the purposes for which the debt is to
be authorized and, as a matter of practice, includes a maximum amount of
funds to be borrowed. Upon electorate approval and enactment of legislation
implementing the proposed debt-funded program, bonds may be issued. All such
authorizing legislation to date has given issuance authority to two of the
Issuing Officials, one of whom must be the Governor.
Outstanding general obligation debt totaled $4,725 million at June 30,
1998, a decrease of $70 million from June 30, 1997. Over the 10-year period
ending June 30, 1998, total outstanding general obligation debt increased at
an annual rate of 0.1 percent. Within the most recent 5-year period,
outstanding general obligation debt has decreased at an annual rate of 1.3
percent.
Certain state-created agencies have statutory authorization to incur debt
for which state appropriations to pay debt service thereon is not required.
The debt of these agencies is supported by assets of, or revenues derived
from, the various projects financed and is not an obligation of the
Commonwealth. Some of these agencies, however, are indirectly dependent on
Commonwealth appropriations. These agencies, their purposes and their
outstanding debt are as follows:
Delaware River Joint Toll Bridge Commission ("DRJTBC"): The DRJTBC, a
public corporation of the Commonwealth and New Jersey, owns and operates
bridges across the Delaware River. Debt service on bonds is paid from tolls
and other revenues of the Commission. The DRJTBC had $51.4 million in bonds
outstanding as of June 30, 1998.
Delaware River Port Authority ("DRPA"): The DRPA, a public corporation of
the Commonwealth and New Jersey, operates several toll bridges over the
Delaware River and promotes the use of the Philadelphia-Camden port. Debt
service on bonds is paid from toll revenues and other revenues pledged by
DRPA to repayment of bonds. The DRPA had $504.1 million in revenue bond debt
outstanding on June 30, 1998.
Pennsylvania Economic Development Financing Authority ("PEDFA"): The PEDFA
was created in 1987 to offer pooled bond issues for both taxable and
tax-exempt bonds on behalf of local industrial and commercial development
authorities for economic development projects. Bonds may be secured by loan
repayments and all other revenues of the PEDFA. The PEDFA had $1,106.4
million of debt outstanding as of June 30, 1998.
Pennsylvania Energy Development Authority ("PEDA"): The PEDA was created
in 1982 to finance energy research projects, demonstration projects promoting
the production or conservation of energy and the promotion, utilization and
transportation of Pennsylvania energy resources. The authority's funding is
from appropriations and project revenues. Debt service on bonds is paid from
project revenues and other revenues pledged by PEDA to repayment of bonds.
The PEDA had $43.1 million in bonds outstanding as of June 30, 1998.
Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency ("PHEAA"): The PHEAA makes
or guarantees student loans to students or parents, or to lending
institutions or postsecondary institutions. Debt service on the bonds is paid
by loan interest and repayments and other agency revenues. The PHEAA had
$1,633.8 million in bonds outstanding as of June 30, 1998.
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Pennsylvania Higher Education Facilities Authority ("PHEFA"): The PHEFA is
a public corporation of the Commonwealth established to finance college
facilities. As of June 30, 1998, the PHEFA had $3,057.6 million in revenue
bonds and notes outstanding payable from the lease rentals or loan repayments
of the projects financed. Some of the lessees or borrowers, although private
institutions, receive grants and subsidies from the Commonwealth.
Pennsylvania Industrial Development Authority ("PIDA"): The PIDA is a
public corporation of the Commonwealth established for the purpose of
financing economic development. The PIDA had $394.5 million in revenue bond
debt outstanding on June 30, 1998, to which all of its revenues are pledged.
Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission ("PTC"): The PTC operates the
Pennsylvania Turnpike System. Its outstanding indebtedness, $1,127.9 million
as of June 30, 1998, is payable from the net revenues of the System,
primarily toll revenues and rentals from leases and concessions.
Pennsylvania Infrastructure Investment Authority ("PIIA"): The PIIA was
created in 1988 to provide low interest rate loans and grants for the purpose
of constructing new and improving existing water supply and sewage disposal
systems to protect the health and safety of the citizens of the Commonwealth
and to promote economic development within the Commonwealth. Loans and grants
are available to local governments and, in certain circumstances, to private
companies. The PIIA bonds are secured by principal repayments and interest
payments on PIIA loans. The PIIA had $196.4 million revenue bonds outstanding
as of June 30, 1998.
Philadelphia Regional Port Authority ("PRPA"): The PRPA was created in
1989 for the purpose of acquiring and operating port facilities in Bucks and
Delaware Counties, and the City of Philadelphia. Debt service on the bonds is
paid by a pledge of the PRPA's revenues, rentals and receipts. The PRPA had
$59.5 million in bonds outstanding as of June 30, 1998.
State Public School Building Authority ("SPSBA"): The SPSBA finances
public school projects. Bonds issued by the SPSBA are supported by the lease
rental payments or loan repayments made to the SPSBA by local school
districts and the sponsors of community colleges. A portion of the funds
appropriated annually by the Commonwealth as aid to local school districts
may be used by them to pay such lease rental payments or loan repayments. The
SPSBA had $343.3 million of revenue bonds outstanding on June 30, 1998.
"Moral Obligations." Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency ("PHFA"): The
PHFA is a state-created agency which provides financing for housing for lower
and moderate income families in the Commonwealth. The bonds, but not the
notes, of the PHFA are partially secured by a capital reserve fund required
to be maintained by the PHFA in an amount equal to the maximum annual debt
service on its outstanding bonds in any succeeding calendar year. The statute
creating PHFA provides that if there is a potential deficiency in the capital
reserve fund or if funds are necessary to avoid default on interest,
principal or sinking fund payments on bonds or notes of PHFA, the Governor,
upon notification from the PHFA, shall place in the budget of the
Commonwealth for the next succeeding year an amount sufficient to make up any
such deficiency or to avoid any such default. The budget as finally adopted
by the General Assembly may or may not include the amount so placed therein
by the Governor. PHFA is not permitted to borrow additional funds so long as
any deficiency exists in the capital reserve fund. As of June 30, 1998, PHFA
had $2,716.4 million of revenue bonds outstanding.
The Hospitals and Higher Education Facilities Authority of Philadelphia
(the "Hospitals Authority"). The Hospitals Authority is a municipal authority
organized by the City of Philadelphia to, inter alia, acquire and prepare
various sites for use as intermediate care facilities for the mentally
retarded. On August 26, 1986, the Hospitals Authority issued $20.4 million of
bonds which were refunded in 1993 by a $21.1 million bond issue of the
Hospitals Authority (the "Hospitals Authority Bonds") for such facilities for
the City. The Hospitals Authority Bonds are secured by leases with the City
payable only from project revenues and a debt service reserve fund. The
Commonwealth's Department of Public Welfare ("DPW") has agreed with the
Hospitals Authority to request in DPW's annual budget submission to the
Governor, an amount of funds sufficient to alleviate any deficiency that may
arise in the debt service reserve fund
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for the Hospitals Authority Bonds. The budget as finally adopted may or may
not include the amount requested. If funds are paid to the Hospitals
Authority, DPW will obtain certain rights in the property financed with the
Hospitals Authority Bonds in return for such payment.
In response to a delay in the availability of billable beds and the
revenues from these beds to pay debt service on the Hospitals Authority
Bonds, PHFA agreed in June 1989 to provide a $2.2 million low-interest loan
to the Hospitals Authority. The loan enabled the Hospitals Authority to make
all debt service payments on the Hospitals Authority Bonds during 1990.
Enough beds were completed in 1991 to provide sufficient revenues to the
Hospitals Authority to meet its debt service payments and to begin repaying
the loan from PHFA. According to the Hospitals Authority, as of June 30,
1998, $1.1 million of the loan principal was outstanding. DPW has agreed that
the additional costs arising from the PHFA loan will be reimbursed as
necessary and reasonable costs of the project.
Local Governmental Unit and Related Authority Obligations. Various state
statutes authorize local units of government (counties, cities, school
districts and the like) to issue general obligations and revenue obligations,
subject to compliance with the requirements of such statutes. In addition,
various statutes permit local government units to organize authorities having
the power to issue obligations which are not subject to debt limits that may
be applicable to the organizing governmental unit and which are payable from
assets of or revenues derived from projects financed by such authorities.
Such authorities include parking authorities, industrial development
authorities, redevelopment authorities, transportation authorities, water and
sewer authorities, and authorities to undertake projects for institutions of
higher education and health care. Such obligations may generally be affected
by adverse changes in the economy of the area in which such local government
units or projects financed by them or by authorities created by them are
located, by changes in applicable federal, state or local law or regulation,
or by changes in levels of federal, state or local appropriations, grants or
subsidies to the extent such appropriations, grants or subsidies directly or
indirectly affect revenues of such issuers.
Year 2000. A well-established standard in the computer industry governing
traditional programming practices is expected to result in many current
computer systems being unable to recognize dates beyond the year 1999. As a
result, computers worldwide may begin to malfunction by producing erroneous
data or failing completely as the year 2000 draws near. The Governor has made
fixing the year 2000 problem a top priority for Pennsylvania state agencies.
At the Governor's direction, Pennsylvania has begun an aggressive program to
make its computer systems year 2000-compatible and to identify potential
problems with entities outside state government with which the Commonwealth
does business or exchanges data.
An initial assessment of state agencies' computer resources was completed
in June of 1996. This overview assessment was used to develop the Governor's
Year 2000 Action Plan, which tracks state agencies' computer programs through
a three-step process of correction, testing, and implementation. Under this
action plan, 45,937 mission-critical and non mission-critical computer
programs used by state agencies are scheduled for corrective measures to
ensure they will be year 2000 compatible. Mission-critical computer programs
are those which impact the health, safety and welfare of the Commonwealth and
its citizens, and for which failure to be year 2000 compliant could have a
material and adverse impact upon operations of the Commonwealth. During a
press conference on July 22, 1998, Secretary of Administration Thomas G.
Paese announced that repairs to 98 percent of all mission-critical computer
programs have been completed; all non-mission-critical programs will be
corrected by December 31, 1998. This will allow a full-year buffer before the
new century begins. Secretary Paese also announced that 63 percent of
non-mission-critical programs have already been made Year 2000-compliant and
that the Commonwealth is 116 percent ahead of schedule to meet its December
31st deadline. The projected cost of the Commonwealth's year 2000
modification work is $39.5 million and is being paid from appropriations from
current revenues.
Pennsylvania is continuing to identify all of its data trading partners
and is taking steps to safeguard shared data from year 2000 complications. To
date, 408 data interfaces have been identified between state agencies. In
addition, 68 federal agency interfaces and 228 third-party interests have
been
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identified which demand year 2000 corrective actions. The Commonwealth is
working with these outside groups to coordinate modifications to shared data
interfaces so that data exchanges vital to government operations can continue
unimpaired by year 2000 concerns.
In addition, state agencies are working to identify "embedded
technologies" located throughout Commonwealth facilities. Embedded
technologies are microcomputer chips used in many of today's electronic
devices, such as security systems and building environmental systems. Because
of their ubiquitous nature, and their small size, it is challenging to
identify all embedded technologies in use. As a result, no firm estimate
exists for the financial cost of making fixes to all embedded technologies in
use by agencies. State agencies have been instructed to inventory the types
of equipment under their control that may be impacted -such as heating,
ventilation and air conditioning systems, and elevators -and then contact
service providers or manufacturers to determine if this equipment is year
2000 compliant.
The Office of Administration's Office for Information Technology is
responsible for monitoring the progress of state agencies in meeting the
Governor's Year 2000 Action Plan. While state agencies are making every
reasonable effort to completely address potential year 2000 impacts, there
can be no guarantee that all of the Commonwealth's mission-critical and
non-mission critical computer programs will be entirely free from year
2000-related problems and that a material adverse impact on Commonwealth
operations or finances will be avoided as a result.
C. FUND POLICIES/INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS
The investment policies/restrictions listed below have been adopted by
each Series as fundamental policies. Under the Investment Company Act of 1940
(the "Investment Company Act"), a fundamental policy may not be changed
without the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the
Series. The Investment Company Act defines a majority as the lesser of (a)
67% or more of the shares present at a meeting of shareholders, if the
holders of 50% of the outstanding shares of the Series are present or
represented by proxy; or (b) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the
Series. For purposes of the following restrictions: (i) all percentage
limitations apply immediately after a purchase or initial investment; and
(ii) any subsequent change in any applicable percentage resulting from market
fluctuations or other changes in total or net assets does not require
elimination of any security from the portfolio.
In addition, for purposes of the following restrictions: (a) an "issuer"
of a security is the entity whose assets and revenues are committed to the
payment of interest and principal on that particular security, provided that
the guarantee of a security will be considered a separate security and
provided further that a guarantee of a security shall not be deemed a
security issued by the guarantor if the value of all securities guaranteed by
the guarantor and owned by a Series does not exceed 10% of the value of the
total assets of the Series; (b) a "taxable security" is any security the
interest on which is subject to federal income tax; and (c) all percentage
limitations apply immediately after a purchase or initial investment, and any
subsequent change in any applicable percentage resulting from market
fluctuations or other changes in total or net assets does not require
elimination of any security from the portfolio.
Each Series may not:
1. Invest in common stock.
2. Write, purchase or sell puts, calls, or combinations thereof, except
for options on futures contracts or options on debt securities.
3. Invest 25% or more of the value of its total assets in securities of
issuers in any one industry. This restriction does not apply to
obligations issued or guaranteed by the United States Government, its
agencies or instrumentalities or to municipal obligations, including
those issued by the designated State of the Series or its political
subdivisions.
4. Invest in securities of any issuer if, to the knowledge of the Series,
any officer or trustee of the Fund or of the Investment Manager owns
more than 1/2 of 1% of the outstanding securities of the issuer, and
the officers and trustees who own more than 1/2 of 1% own in the
aggregate more than 5% of the outstanding securities of the issuer.
43
<PAGE>
5. Purchase or sell real estate or interests therein (including limited
partnership interests), although it may purchase securities secured by
real estate or interests therein.
6. Purchase or sell commodities except that the Series may purchase
financial futures contracts and related options.
7. Borrow money, except that each Series may borrow from a bank for
temporary or emergency purposes in amounts not exceeding 5% (taken at
the lower of cost or current value) of the value of the total assets
of the Series (including the amount borrowed) less its liabilities
(not including any borrowings but including the fair market value at
the time of computation of any senior securities then outstanding).
8. Pledge its assets or assign or otherwise encumber them except to
secure permitted borrowing. However, for the purpose of this
restriction, collateral arrangements with respect to the writing of
options and collateral arrangements with respect to initial margin for
futures are not deemed to be pledges of assets and neither such
arrangements nor the purchase or sale of futures are deemed to be the
issuance of a senior security as set forth in restriction 10.
9. Issue senior securities as defined in the Act, except insofar as the
Series may be deemed to have issued a senior security by reason of:
(a) entering into any repurchase agreement; (b) purchasing any
securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis; or (c)
borrowing money in accordance with the restrictions described above.
10. Make loans of money or securities, except: (a) by the purchase of debt
obligations in which each Series may invest consistent with its
investment objective and policies; (b) by investment in repurchase
agreements; and (c) by lending its portfolio securities.
11. Make short sales of securities.
12. Purchase securities on margin, except for such short-term loans as are
necessary for the clearance of purchases of portfolio securities. The
deposit or payment by the Series of initial or variation margin in
connection with futures contracts or related options thereon is not
considered the purchase of a security on margin.
13. Engage in the underwriting of securities, except insofar as the Series
may be deemed an underwriter under the Securities Act in disposing of
a portfolio security.
14. Invest for the purpose of exercising control or management of any
other issuer.
15. Purchase oil, gas or other mineral leases, rights or royalty
contracts, or exploration or development programs.
16. Purchase securities of other investment companies, except in
connection with a merger, consolidation, reorganization or acquisition
of assets.
Notwithstanding any other investment policy or restriction, each Series
may seek to achieve its investment objective by investing all or
substantially all of its assets in another investment company having
substantially the same investment objective and policies as the Series.
III. MANAGEMENT OF THE FUND
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
A. BOARD OF TRUSTEES
The Board of Trustees of the Fund oversees the management of each Series
but does not itself manage a Series. The Trustees review various services
provided by or under the direction of the Investment Manager to ensure that
each Series' general investment policies and programs are properly carried
out. The Trustees also conduct their review to ensure that administrative
services are provided to each Series in a satisfactory manner.
Under state law, the duties of the Trustees are generally characterized as
a duty of loyalty and a duty of care. The duty of loyalty requires a Trustee
to exercise his or her powers in the interest of the Fund
44
<PAGE>
and each Series and not the Trustee's own interest or the interest of another
person or organization. A Trustee satisfies his or her duty of care by acting
in good faith with the care of an ordinarily prudent person and in a manner
the Trustee reasonably believes to be in the best interest of the Fund, each
Series and its shareholders.
B. MANAGEMENT INFORMATION
TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS. The Board of the Fund consists of nine (9)
Trustees. These same individuals also serve as directors or trustees for all
of the Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds. Seven Trustees (77% of the total
number) have no affiliation or business connection with the Investment
Manager or any of its affiliated persons and do not own any stock or other
securities issued by the Investment Manager's parent company, MSDW. These are
the "non-interested" or "independent" Trustees. The other two Trustees (the
"management Trustees") are affiliated with the Investment Manager. All of the
Independent Trustees also serve as Independent Trustees of "Discover
Brokerage Index Series," a mutual fund for which the Investment Manager is
the investment advisor. Four of the seven Independent Trustees are also
Independent Trustees of certain other mutual funds, referred to as the
"TCW/DW Funds," for which MSDW Services Company is the manager and TCW Funds
Management, Inc. is the investment advisor.
The Trustees and executive officers of the Fund, their principal business
occupations during the last five years and their affiliations, if any, with
the Investment Manager, and with the 85 Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds, the
11 TCW/DW Funds and Discover Brokerage Index Series, are shown below.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NAME, AGE, POSITION WITH FUND AND ADDRESS PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS DURING LAST FIVE YEARS
- -------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C>
Michael Bozic (58).......................... Vice Chairman of Kmart Corporation (since December,
Trustee 1998); Director or Trustee of the Morgan Stanley Dean
c/o Kmart Corporation Witter Funds; Trustee of Discover Brokerage Index
3100 West Big Beaver Road Series; formerly Chairman and Chief Executive Officer
Troy, Michigan of Levitz Furniture Corporation (November,
1995-November, 1998) and President and Chief Executive
Officer of Hills Department Stores (May, 1991-July,
1995); formerly variously Chairman, Chief Executive
Officer, President and Chief Operating Officer
(1987-1991) of the Sears Merchandise Group of Sears,
Roebuck and Co.; Director of Eaglemark Financial
Services, Inc. and Weirton Steel Corporation.
Charles A. Fiumefreddo* (65)................ Chairman, Director or Trustee, President and Chief
Chairman of the Board, President, Executive Officer of the Morgan Stanley Dean Witter
Chief Executive Officer and Trustee Funds; Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Trustee of
Two World Trade Center the TCW/DW Funds; Trustee of Discover Brokerage Index
New York, New York Series; formerly Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and
Director of the Investment Manager, the Distributor and
MSDW Services Company; Executive Vice President and
Director of Dean Witter Reynolds; Chairman and Director
of the Transfer Agent; formerly Director and/or officer
of various MSDW subsidiaries (until June, 1998).
45
<PAGE>
NAME, AGE, POSITION WITH FUND AND ADDRESS PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS DURING LAST FIVE YEARS
- -------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------
Edwin J. Garn (66).......................... Director or Trustee of the Morgan Stanley Dean Witter
Trustee Funds; Trustee of Discover Brokerage Index Series;
c/o Huntsman Corporation formerly United States Senator (R-Utah)(1974-1992) and
500 Huntsman Way Chairman, Senate Banking Committee (1980-1986);
Salt Lake City, Utah formerly Mayor of Salt Lake City, Utah (1971-1974);
formerly Astronaut, Space Shuttle Discovery (April
12-19, 1985); Vice Chairman, Huntsman Corporation;
Director of Franklin Covey (time management systems),
BMW Bank of North America, Inc., United Space Alliance
(joint venture between Lockheed Martin and the Boeing
Company) and Nuskin Asia Pacific (multilevel
marketing); member of the board of various civic and
charitable organizations.
John R. Haire (74).......................... Chairman of the Audit Committee and Director or Trustee
Trustee Two World Trade Center of the Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds; Chairman of
New York, New York the Audit Committee and Trustee of the TCW/DW Funds;
Chairman of the Audit Committee and Chairman of the
Audit Committee and Trustee of Discover Brokerage Index
Series; formerly Chairman of the Independent Directors
or Trustees of the Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds and
the TCW/DW Funds (until June, 1998); formerly
President, Council for Aid to Education (1978-1989) and
Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Anchor
Corporation, an investment advisor (1964-1978).
Wayne E. Hedien (65)........................ Retired; Director or Trustee of the Morgan Stanley Dean
Trustee Witter Funds; Trustee of Discover Brokerage Index
c/o Gordon Altman Butowsky Series; Director of The PMI Group, Inc. (private
Weitzen Shalov & Wein mortgage insurance); Trustee and Vice Chairman of The
Counsel to the Independent Trustees Field Museum of Natural History; formerly associated
114 West 47th Street with the Allstate Companies (1966-1994), most recently
New York, New York as Chairman of The Allstate Corporation (March,
1993-December, 1994) and Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer of its wholly-owned subsidiary, Allstate
Insurance Company (July, 1989-December, 1994); director
of various other business and charitable organizations.
46
<PAGE>
NAME, AGE, POSITION WITH FUND AND ADDRESS PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS DURING LAST FIVE YEARS
- -------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------
Dr. Manuel H. Johnson (50).................. Senior Partner, Johnson Smick International, Inc., a
Trustee consulting firm; Co-Chairman and a founder of the Group
c/o Johnson Smick International, Inc. of Seven Council (G7C), an international economic
1133 Connecticut Avenue, N.W. commission; Director or Trustee of the Morgan Stanley
Washington, D.C. Dean Witter Funds; Trustee of the TCW/DW Funds; Trustee
of Discover Brokerage Index Series; Director of NASDAQ
(since June, 1995); Director of Greenwich Capital
Markets, Inc. (broker-dealer) and NVR, Inc. (home
construction); Chairman and Trustee of the Financial
Accounting Foundation (oversight organization of the
Financial Accounting Standards Board); formerly Vice
Chairman of the Board of Governors of the Federal
Reserve System (1986-1990) and Assistant Secretary of
the U.S. Treasury.
Michael E. Nugent (62)...................... General Partner, Triumph Capital, L.P., a private
Trustee investment partnership; Director or Trustee of the
c/o Triumph Capital, L.P. Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds; Trustee of the TCW/DW
237 Park Avenue Funds; Trustee of Discover Brokerage Index Series;
New York, New York formerly Vice President, Bankers Trust Company and BT
Capital Corporation (1984-1988); director of various
business organizations.
Philip J. Purcell* (55)..................... Chairman of the Board of Directors and Chief Executive
Trustee Officer of MSDW, Dean Witter Reynolds and Novus Credit
1585 Broadway Services Inc.; Director of the Distributor; Director or
New York, New York Trustee of the Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds;
Trustee of Discover Brokerage Index Series; Director
and/or officer of various MSDW subsidiaries.
John L. Schroeder (68)...................... Retired; Director or Trustee of the Morgan Stanley Dean
Trustee Witter Funds; Trustee of the TCW/DW Funds; Trustee of
c/o Gordon Altman Butowsky Discover Brokerage Index Series; Director of Citizens
Weitzen Shalov & Wein Utilities Company; formerly Executive Vice President
Counsel to the Independent Trustees and Chief Investment Officer of the Home Insurance
114 West 47th Street Company (August, 1991-September, 1995).
New York, New York
47
<PAGE>
NAME, AGE, POSITION WITH FUND AND ADDRESS PRINCIPAL OCCUPATIONS DURING LAST FIVE YEARS
- -------------------------------------------- -------------------------------------------------------
Barry Fink (44)............................. Senior Vice President (since March, 1997) and Secretary
Vice President, and General Counsel (since February, 1997) and Director
Secretary and General Counsel (since July, 1998) of the Investment Manager and MSDW
Two World Trade Center Services Company; Senior Vice President (since March,
New York, New York 1997) and Assistant Secretary and Assistant General
Counsel (since February, 1997) of the Distributor;
Assistant Secretary of Dean Witter Reynolds (since
August, 1996); Vice President, Secretary and General
Counsel of the Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds and the
TCW/DW Funds (since February, 1997); Vice President,
Secretary and General Counsel of Discover Brokerage
Index Series; previously First Vice President (June,
1993-February, 1997), Vice President and Assistant
Secretary and Assistant General Counsel of the
Investment Manager and MSDW Services Company and
Assistant Secretary of the Morgan Stanley Dean Witter
Funds and the TCW/DW Funds.
James F. Willison (56)...................... Senior Vice President of the Investment Manager; Vice
Vice President President of various Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds.
Two World Trade Center
New York, New York
Thomas F. Caloia (52)....................... First Vice President and Assistant Treasurer of the
Treasurer Investment Manager and MSDW Services Company; Treasurer
Two World Trade Center of the Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds, the TCW/DW
New York, New York Funds and Discover Brokerage Index Series.
</TABLE>
- ------------
* Denotes Trustees who are "interested persons" of the Fund as defined by the
Investment Company Act.
In addition, Mitchell M. Merin, President and Chief Operating Officer of
Asset Management of MSDW, President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of
the Investment Manager and MSDW Services Company, Chairman and Director of
the Distributor and the Transfer Agent, Executive Vice President and Director
of Dean Witter Reynolds, and Director of various MSDW subsidiaries, Ronald E.
Robison, Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer and Director
of the Investment Manager and MSDW Services Company, Robert S. Giambrone,
Senior Vice President of the Investment Manager, MSDW Services Company, the
Distributor and the Transfer Agent and Director of the Transfer Agent, Joseph
J. McAlinden, Executive Vice President and Chief Investment Officer of the
Investment Manager and Director of the Transfer Agent, and Peter M. Avelar,
Kevin Hurley and Jonathan R. Page, Senior Vice Presidents of the Investment
Manager, and Joseph R. Arcieri, Gerard J. Lian and Katherine H. Stromberg,
Vice Presidents of the Investment Manager, are Vice Presidents of the Fund.
In addition, Frank Bruttomesso, Marilyn K. Cranney, Lou Anne D. McInnis,
Ruth Rossi, and Carsten Otto, First Vice Presidents and Assistant General
Counsels of the Investment Manager and MSDW Services Company, Todd Lebo, Vice
President and Assistant General Counsel of the Investment Manager and MSDW
Services Company, are Assistant Secretaries of the Fund.
INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES AND THE COMMITTEES. Law and regulation establish both
general guidelines and specific duties for the Independent Trustees. The
Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds seek as Independent Trustees individuals of
distinction and experience in business and finance, government service or
academia; these are people whose advice and counsel are in demand by others
and for whom
48
<PAGE>
there is often competition. To accept a position on the Funds' Boards, such
individuals may reject other attractive assignments because the Funds make
substantial demands on their time. Indeed, by serving on the Funds' Boards,
certain Trustees who would otherwise be qualified and in demand to serve on
bank boards would be prohibited by law from doing so. All of the Independent
Trustees serve as members of the Audit Committee. Three of them also serve as
members of the Derivatives Committee. In addition, three of the Trustees,
including two Independent Trustees, serve as members of the Insurance
Committee.
The Independent Trustees are charged with recommending to the full Board
approval of management, advisory and administration contracts, Rule 12b-1
plans and distribution and underwriting agreements; continually reviewing
Fund performance; checking on the pricing of portfolio securities, brokerage
commissions, transfer agent costs and performance, and trading among Funds in
the same complex; and approving fidelity bond and related insurance coverage
and allocations, as well as other matters that arise from time to time. The
Independent Trustees are required to select and nominate individuals to fill
any Independent Trustee vacancy on the Board of any Fund that has a Rule
12b-1 plan of distribution. Most of the Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds have
a Rule 12b-1 plan.
The Audit Committee is charged with recommending to the full Board the
engagement or discharge of the Fund's independent accountants; directing
investigations into matters within the scope of the independent accountants'
duties, including the power to retain outside specialists; reviewing with the
independent accountants the audit plan and results of the auditing
engagement; approving professional services provided by the independent
accountants and other accounting firms prior to the performance of the
services; reviewing the independence of the independent accountants;
considering the range of audit and non-audit fees; reviewing the adequacy of
the Fund's system of internal controls; and preparing and submitting
Committee meeting minutes to the full Board.
The Board of each Fund has a Derivatives Committee to approve parameters
for and monitor the activities of the Fund with respect to derivative
investments, if any, made by the Fund.
Finally, the Board of each Fund has formed an Insurance Committee to
review and monitor the insurance coverage maintained by the Fund.
ADVANTAGES OF HAVING SAME INDIVIDUALS AS INDEPENDENT TRUSTEES FOR ALL
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER FUNDS. The Independent Trustees and the Funds'
management believe that having the same Independent Trustees for each of the
Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds avoids the duplication of effort that would
arise from having different groups of individuals serving as Independent
Trustees for each of the Funds or even of sub-groups of Funds. They believe
that having the same individuals serve as Independent Trustees of all the
Funds tends to increase their knowledge and expertise regarding matters which
affect the Fund complex generally and enhances their ability to negotiate on
behalf of each Fund with the Fund's service providers. This arrangement also
precludes the possibility of separate groups of Independent Trustees arriving
at conflicting decisions regarding operations and management of the Funds and
avoids the cost and confusion that would likely ensue. Finally, having the
same Independent Trustees serve on all Fund Boards enhances the ability of
each Fund to obtain, at modest cost to each separate Fund, the services of
Independent Trustees, of the caliber, experience and business acumen of the
individuals who serve as Independent Trustees of the Morgan Stanley Dean
Witter Funds.
TRUSTEE AND OFFICER INDEMNIFICATION. The Fund's Declaration of Trust
provides that no Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Fund is liable to
the Fund or to a shareholder, nor is any Trustee, officer, employee or agent
liable to any third persons in connection with the affairs of the Fund,
except as such liability may arise from his/her or its own bad faith, willful
misfeasance, gross negligence or reckless disregard of his/her or its duties.
It also provides that all third persons shall look solely to the Fund
property for satisfaction of claims arising in connection with the affairs of
the Fund. With the exceptions stated, the Declaration of Trust provides that
a Trustee, officer, employee or agent is entitled to be indemnified against
all liability in connection with the affairs of the Fund.
49
<PAGE>
C. COMPENSATION
The Fund pays each Independent Trustee an annual fee of $800 plus a per
meeting fee of $50 for meetings of the Board of Trustees, the Independent
Trustees or Committees of the Board of Trustees attended by the Trustee (the
Fund pays the Chairman of the Audit Committee an additional annual fee of
$750 and pays the Chairman of the Committee of the Independent Trustees an
additional fee of $1,200). If a Board meeting and a meeting of the
Independent Trustees or a Committee meeting, or a meeting of the Independent
Trustees and/or more than one Committee meeting, take place on a single day,
the Trustees are paid a single meeting fee by the Fund. The Fund also
reimburses such Trustees for travel and other out-of-pocket expenses incurred
by them in connection with attending such meetings. Trustees and officers of
the Fund who are or have been employed by the Investment Manager or an
affiliated company receive no compensation or expense reimbursement from the
Fund for their services as Trustee. Mr. Haire currently serves as Chairman of
the Audit Committee. Prior to June 1, 1998, Mr. Haire also served as Chairman
of the Independent Trustees for which services the Fund paid him an
additional annual fee of $1,200. Effective May 1, 1999, Dr. Johnson serves as
Chairman of the Audit Committee.
The following table illustrates the compensation that the Fund paid to its
Independent Trustees for the fiscal year ended November 30, 1998.
FUND COMPENSATION
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AGGREGATE
COMPENSATION
NAME OF INDEPENDENT TRUSTEE FROM THE FUND
- --------------------------- ---------------
<S> <C>
Michael Bozic .............. $1,450
Edwin J. Garn .............. 1,600
John R. Haire .............. 2,900
Wayne E. Hedien ............ 1,600
Dr. Manuel H. Johnson ..... 1,550
Michael E. Nugent .......... 1,600
John L. Schroeder .......... 1,600
</TABLE>
The following table illustrates the compensation paid to the Fund's
Independent Trustees for the calendar year ended December 31, 1998 for
services to the 85 Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds and, in the case of
Messrs. Haire, Johnson, Nugent and Schroeder, the 11 TCW/DW Funds that were
in operation at December 31, 1998. Mr. Haire serves as Chairman of the Audit
Committee of each Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Fund and each TCW/DW Fund and,
prior to June 1, 1998, also served as Chairman of the Independent Directors
or Trustees of those Funds. With respect to Messrs. Haire, Johnson, Nugent
and Schroeder, the TCW/DW Funds are included solely because of a limited
exchange privilege between those Funds and five Morgan Stanley Dean Witter
Money Market Funds. No compensation was paid to the Fund's Independent
Trustees by Discover Brokerage Index Series for the calendar year ended
December 31, 1998.
CASH COMPENSATION FROM MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER FUNDS AND TCW/DW FUNDS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FOR SERVICE FOR SERVICE AS TOTAL CASH
AS DIRECTOR OR CHAIRMAN OF FOR SERVICE AS COMPENSATION
TRUSTEE AND INDEPENDENT CHAIRMAN OF FOR SERVICES TO
COMMITTEE FOR SERVICE AS DIRECTORS/TRUSTEES INDEPENDENT 85 MORGAN
MEMBER OF TRUSTEE AND AND AUDIT TRUSTEES AND STANLEY DEAN
85 MORGAN COMMITTEE COMMITTEES OF 85 AUDIT WITTER FUNDS AND
NAME OF STANLEY DEAN MEMBER OF 11 MORGAN STANLEY COMMITTEES OF 11 TCW/DW
INDEPENDENT TRUSTEE WITTER FUNDS TCW/DW FUNDS DEAN WITTER FUNDS 11 TCW/DW FUNDS FUNDS
- --------------------- -------------- -------------- ------------------ --------------- ----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Michael Bozic......... $120,150 -- -- -- $120,150
Edwin J. Garn ........ 132,450 -- -- -- 132,450
John R. Haire ........ 136,450 $66,931 $101,338 $14,725 319,444
Wayne E. Hedien ...... 132,350 -- -- -- 132,350
Dr. Manuel H.
Johnson.............. 128,400 62,331 -- -- 190,731
Michael E. Nugent ... 132,450 62,131 -- 194,581
John L. Schroeder ... 132,450 64,731 -- -- 197,181
</TABLE>
50
<PAGE>
As of the date of this Statement of Additional Information, 55 of the
Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds, including the Fund, have adopted a
retirement program under which an Independent Trustee who retires after
serving for at least five years (or such lesser period as may be determined
by the Board) as an Independent Director or Trustee of any Morgan Stanley
Dean Witter Fund that has adopted the retirement program (each such Fund
referred to as an "Adopting Fund" and each such Trustee referred to as an
"Eligible Trustee") is entitled to retirement payments upon reaching the
eligible retirement age (normally, after attaining age 72). Annual payments
are based upon length of service.
Currently, upon retirement, each Eligible Trustee is entitled to receive
from the Adopting Fund, commencing as of his or her retirement date and
continuing for the remainder of his or her life, an annual retirement benefit
(the "Regular Benefit") equal to 30.22% of his or her Eligible Compensation
plus 0.5036667% of such Eligible Compensation for each full month of service
as an Independent Director or Trustee of any Adopting Fund in excess of five
years up to a maximum of 60.44% after ten years of service. The foregoing
<F1>
percentages may be changed by the Board. (1) "Eligible Compensation" is
one-fifth of the total compensation earned by such Eligible Trustee for
service to the Adopting Fund in the five year period prior to the date of the
Eligible Trustee's retirement. Benefits under the retirement program are not
secured or funded by the Adopting Funds.
The following table illustrates the retirement benefits accrued to the
Fund's Independent Trustees by the Fund for the fiscal year ended November
30, 1998 and by the 55 Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds (including the Fund)
for the year ended December 31, 1998, and the estimated retirement benefits
for the Independent Trustees, to commence upon their retirement, from the
Fund as of November 30, 1998 and from the 55 Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds
as of December 31, 1998.
RETIREMENT BENEFITS FROM THE FUND AND ALL MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER FUNDS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FOR ALL ADOPTING FUNDS
------------------------------
ESTIMATED ANNUAL
RETIREMENT BENEFITS BENEFITS
ESTIMATED ACCRUED AS EXPENSES UPON RETIREMENT(2)
CREDITED YEARS ESTIMATED ----------------------- ----------------------
OF SERVICE AT PERCENTAGE BY ALL FROM ALL
NAME OF RETIREMENT OF ELIGIBLE BY THE ADOPTING FROM THE ADOPTING
INDEPENDENT TRUSTEE (MAXIMUM 10) COMPENSATION FUND FUNDS FUND FUNDS
- ---------------------- -------------- -------------- -------- ------------- ---------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Michael Bozic ......... 10 60.44% $ 392 $ 22,377 $ 997 $ 52,250
Edwin J. Garn ......... 10 60.44 675 35,225 997 52,250
John R. Haire ......... 10 60.44 1,161 (12,211)(3) 2,455 134,705
Wayne E. Hedien ....... 9 51.37 679 41,979 848 44,413
Dr. Manuel H. Johnson 10 60.44 262 14,047 997 52,250
Michael E. Nugent .... 10 60.44 501 25,336 997 52,250
John L. Schroeder .... 8 50.37 796 45,117 838 44,343
</TABLE>
- ------------
(1) An Eligible Trustee may elect alternative payments of his or her
retirement benefits based upon the combined life expectancy of the
Eligible Trustee and his or her spouse on the date of such Eligible
Trustee's retirement. In addition, the Eligible Trustee may elect that
the Surviving spouse's periodic payment of benefits will be equal to a
lower percentage of the periodic amount when both spouses were alive.
The amount estimated to be payable under this method, through the
remainder of the later of the lives of the Eligible Trustee and spouse,
will be the actuarial equivalent of the Regular Benefit.
(2) Based on current levels of compensation. Amount of annual benefits also
varies depending on the Trustee's elections described in Footnote (1)
above.
(3) This number reflects the effect of the extension of Mr. Haire's term as
Director or Trustee until May 1, 1999.
51
<PAGE>
IV. CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SECURITIES
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
The following persons owned 5% or more shares of each Series of the Fund
as of March 1, 1999: Minnesota Series -- Odd Rovick, Roger Rovick, David
Rovick, Richard Olson TTEE Residuar Trust U/W Emma Rovick DTD 1/2/87 5501
Village Drive Apt 305, Edina, MN 55439-1949 -8.27%; Pennsylvania Series --
Commonwealth of PA/PENNVEST PA Treasury, Financial Bldg., Room 126,
Harrisburg, PA 17120 -19.29%.
As of the date of this Statement of Additional Information, the aggregate
number of shares of beneficial interest of the Fund owned by the Fund's
officers and Trustees as a group was less than 1% of the Fund's shares of
beneficial interest outstanding.
V. INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT AND OTHER SERVICES
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
A. INVESTMENT MANAGER
The Investment Manager to each Series is Morgan Stanley Dean Witter
Advisors Inc., a Delaware corporation, whose address is Two World Trade
Center, New York, New York 10048. The Investment Manager is a wholly-owned
subsidiary of MSDW, a Delaware corporation. MSDW is a preeminent global
financial services firm that maintains leading market positions in each of
its three primary businesses: securities, asset management and credit
services.
Pursuant to an Investment Management Agreement (the "Management
Agreement") with the Investment Manager, the Fund has retained the Investment
Manager to provide administrative services and manage the investment of each
Series' assets, including the placing of orders for the purchase and sale of
portfolio securities for the Series. Each Series pays the Investment Manager
monthly compensation calculated daily by applying the annual rate of 0.35% to
the net assets of that Series determined as of the close of each business
day.
During the fiscal year ended November 30, 1996, the Arizona Series,
California Series, Florida Series, Massachusetts Series, Michigan Series,
Minnesota Series, New Jersey Series, New York Series, Ohio Series and
Pennsylvania Series accrued to the Investment Manager under the Management
Agreement total compensation in the amounts of $165,968, $401,258, $249,499,
$56,700, $72,796, $36,759, $160,350, $48,928, $76,978, and $173,524. During
the fiscal year ended November 30, 1997, the Arizona Series, California
Series, Florida Series, Massachusetts Series, Michigan Series, Minnesota
Series, New Jersey Series, New York Series, Ohio Series and Pennsylvania
Series accrued to the Investment Manager under the Management Agreement total
compensation in the amounts of $152,041, $372,728, $235,241, $52,284,
$69,676, $31,997, $150,967, $45,334, $70,502 and $155,772, respectively.
During the fiscal year ended November 30, 1998, the Arizona Series,
California Series, Florida Series, Massachusetts Series, Michigan Series,
Minnesota Series, New Jersey Series, New York Series, Ohio Series and
Pennsylvania Series accrued to the Investment Manager under the Management
Agreement total compensation in the amounts of $143,707, $366,413, $222,722,
$51,570, $66,318, $30,046, $144,628, $43,428, $64,310, and $184,737,
respectively.
The Investment Manager has retained its wholly-owned subsidiary, MSDW
Services Company, to perform administrative services for the Fund.
B. PRINCIPAL UNDERWRITER
The Fund's principal underwriter is the Distributor (which has the same
address as the Investment Manager). In this capacity, each Series' shares are
distributed by the Distributor. The Distributor has entered into a selected
dealer agreement with Dean Witter Reynolds, which through its own sales
organization sells shares of each Series. In addition, the Distributor may
enter into similar agreements with other selected broker-dealers. The
Distributor, a Delaware corporation, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of MSDW.
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The Trustees, including a majority of the Independent Trustees, approved
the current Distribution Agreement appointing the Distributor as exclusive
distributor of each Series' shares and providing for the Distributor to bear
distribution expenses not borne by a Series. By its terms, the Distribution
Agreement had an initial term ending April 30, 1998 and will remain in effect
from year to year thereafter if approved by the Trustees. At their meeting
held on April 30, 1998, the Trustees of the Fund, including a majority of the
Independent Trustees, approved the continuation of the Distribution Agreement
until April 30, 1999.
The Distributor bears all expenses it may incur in providing services
under the Distribution Agreement. These expenses include the payment of
commissions for sales of Series shares and incentive compensation to
Financial Advisors. The Distributor also pays certain expenses in connection
with the distribution of the shares of each Series, including the costs of
preparing, printing and distributing advertising or promotional materials,
and the costs of printing and distributing prospectuses and supplements
thereto used in connection with the offering and sale of Series shares. The
Fund bears the costs of initial typesetting, printing and distribution of
prospectuses and supplements thereto to shareholders. The Fund also bears the
costs of registering the Fund and the Series' shares under federal and state
securities laws and pays filing fees in accordance with state securities
laws.
The Fund and the Distributor have agreed to indemnify each other against
certain liabilities, including liabilities under the Securities Act. Under
the Distribution Agreement, the Distributor uses its best efforts in
rendering services to the Fund, but in the absence of willful misfeasance,
bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of its obligations, the
Distributor is not liable to the Fund or any of its shareholders for any
error of judgment or mistake of law or for any act or omission or for any
losses sustained by the Fund or its shareholders.
C. SERVICES PROVIDED BY THE INVESTMENT MANAGER AND FUND EXPENSES PAID BY
THIRD PARTIES
The Investment Manager manages the investment of each Series' assets,
including the placing of orders for the purchase and sale of portfolio
securities. The Investment Manager obtains and evaluates the information and
advice relating to the economy, securities markets, and specific securities
as it considers necessary or useful to continuously manage the assets of a
Series in a manner consistent with its investment objective.
Under the terms of the Management Agreement, in addition to managing each
Series' investments, the Investment Manager maintains certain of each Series'
books and records and furnishes, at its own expense, the office space,
facilities, equipment, clerical help, bookkeeping and certain legal services
as each Series may reasonably require in the conduct of its business,
including the preparation of prospectuses, proxy statements and reports
required to be filed with federal and state securities commissions (except
insofar as the participation or assistance of independent accountants and
attorneys is, in the opinion of the Investment Manager, necessary or
desirable). In addition, the Investment Manager pays the salaries of all
personnel, including officers of the Fund, who are employees of the
Investment Manager. The Investment Manager also bears the cost of telephone
service, heat, light, power and other utilities provided to the Fund.
Each Series pays all expenses incurred in its operation and a portion of
the Fund's general administration expenses allocated on the basis of asset
size of the respective Series. Expenses not expressly assumed by the
Investment Manager under the Management Agreement or by the Distributor, will
be paid by the Fund or each respective Series depending upon the nature of
the expense. The expenses borne directly by each Series include, but are not
limited to: expenses of the Plan of Distribution pursuant to Rule 12b-1;
charges and expenses of any registrar, custodian, stock transfer and dividend
disbursing agent; brokerage commissions; taxes; engraving and printing share
certificates; registration costs of the Series and its shares under federal
and state securities laws; the cost and expense of printing, including
typesetting, and distributing prospectuses and statements of additional
information of the Series and supplements thereto to the Series'
shareholders; all expenses of shareholders' and Trustees' meetings and of
preparing, printing and mailing of proxy statements and reports to
shareholders; fees and travel expenses of Trustees or members of any advisory
board or committee who are not employees of the Investment Manager or any
corporate affiliate of the Investment
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Manager; all expenses incident to any dividend, withdrawal or redemption
options; charges and expenses of any outside service used for pricing of the
Fund's shares; fees and expenses of legal counsel, including counsel to the
Trustees who are not interested persons of the Fund or of the Investment
Manager (not including compensation or expenses of attorneys who are
employees of the Investment Manager); fees and expenses of the Fund's
independent accountants; membership dues of industry associations; interest
on Series borrowings; postage; insurance premiums on property or personnel
(including officers and Trustees) of the Fund which inure to its benefit;
extraordinary expenses including, but not limited to, legal claims and
liabilities and litigation costs and any indemnification relating thereto
(depending upon the nature of the legal claim, liability or lawsuit, the
costs of litigation, payment of legal claims or liabilities or
indemnification relating thereto may be directly applicable to a particular
Series or may be proportionately allocated on the basis of the size of each
Series. The Trustees have determined that this is an appropriate method of
allocation of such expenses); and all other costs of the Fund's operation.
The Management Agreement provides that in the absence of willful
misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of its
obligations thereunder, the Investment Manager is not liable to the Fund or
any of its investors for any act or omission by the Investment Manager or for
any losses sustained by the Fund or its investors.
The Management Agreement has an initial term ending April 30, 1999 and
will remain in effect from year to year thereafter with respect to each
Series, provided continuance of the Management Agreement is approved at least
annually by the vote of the holders of a majority, as defined in the
Investment Company Act, of the outstanding shares of that Series, or by the
Trustees; provided that in either event such continuance is approved annually
by the vote of a majority of the Trustees.
D. DEALER REALLOWANCES
Upon notice to selected broker-dealers, the Distributor may reallow up to
the full applicable front-end sales charge during periods specified in such
notice. During periods when 90% or more of the sales charge is reallowed,
such selected broker-dealers may be deemed to be underwriters as that term is
defined in the Securities Act.
E. RULE 12B-1 PLAN
In accordance with a Plan of Distribution pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the
Investment Company Act between the Fund and the Distributor, the Distributor
provides certain services in connection with the promotion of sales of Fund
shares (the "Plan").
The Plan provides that the Distributor bears the expense of all
promotional and distribution related activities on behalf of the Fund, except
for expenses that the Trustees determine to reimburse, as described below.
The following activities and services may be provided by the Distributor
under the Plan: (1) compensation to and expenses of Dean Witter Reynolds'
Financial Advisors and other Selected Broker-Dealers' account executives and
other employees, including overhead and telephone expenses; (2) sales
incentives and bonuses to sales representatives and to marketing personnel in
connection with promoting sales of the Fund's shares; (3) expenses incurred
in connection with promoting sales of the Fund's shares; (4) preparing and
distributing sales literature; and (5) providing advertising and promotional
activities, including direct mail solicitation and television, radio,
newspaper, magazine and other media advertisements.
The Fund is authorized to reimburse specific expenses incurred or to be
incurred in promoting the distribution of Series shares. Reimbursement is
made through payments at the end of each month. The amount of each monthly
payment may in no event exceed an amount equal to a payment at the annual
rate of 0.15 of 1% of the average daily net assets of the shares of each
Series of the Fund during the month. No interest or other financing charges
will be incurred for which reimbursement payments under the Plan will be
made. In addition, no interest charges, if any, incurred on any distribution
expenses will be reimbursable under the Plan. In the case of all expenses
other than expenses representing a residual to Financial Advisors and other
authorized financial representatives, such amounts shall be determined
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at the beginning of each calendar quarter by the Trustees, including a
majority of the Independent 12b-1 Trustees. Expenses representing a residual
to Financial Advisors and other authorized financial representatives may be
reimbursed without prior determination. In the event that the Distributor
proposes that monies shall be reimbursed for other than such expenses, then
in making quarterly determinations of the amounts that may be expended by the
Fund, the Distributor provides and the Trustees review a quarterly budget of
projected incremental distribution expenses to be incurred on behalf of the
Fund, together with a report explaining the purposes and anticipated benefits
of incurring such expenses. The Trustees determine which particular expenses,
and the portions thereof, that may be borne by the Fund, and in making such a
determination shall consider the scope of the Distributor's commitment to
promoting the distribution of Series shares.
The Arizona Series, California Series, Florida Series, Massachusetts
Series, Michigan Series, Minnesota Series, New Jersey Series, New York
Series, Ohio Series and Pennsylvania Series, accrued a total of $59,039,
$152,886, $90,485, $21,596, $27,604, $12,575, $58,389, $16,908, $25,943 and
$78,423, respectively pursuant to the Plan of Distribution for the fiscal
year ended November 30, 1998. Such payment amounted to an annual rate of 0.14
of 1% of the average daily net assets of the Arizona Series, Florida Series,
New Jersey Series, New York Series and Ohio Series and, 0.15% of the daily
net assets of the California Series, Massachusetts Series, Michigan Series,
Minnesota Series and Pennsylvania Series. It is estimated that the amount
paid by the Fund for distribution was for expenses which relate to
compensation of sales personnel and associated overhead expenses. The
Distributor has informed the Fund that it received sales charges on sales of
the Fund's shares in the approximate amounts of $1,324,657, $912,113, and
$994,943 for the fiscal years ended 1996, 1997, and 1998, respectively.
Under the Plan, the Distributor uses its best efforts in rendering
services to the Fund, but in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith,
gross negligence or reckless disregard of its obligations, the Distributor is
not liable to the Fund or any of its shareholders for any error of judgment
or mistake of law or for any act or omission or for any losses sustained by
the Fund or its shareholders.
Under the Plan, the Distributor provides each of the Series the Fund, for
review by the Trustees, and the Trustees review, promptly after the end of
each fiscal quarter, a written report regarding the incremental distribution
expenses incurred on behalf of each of each Series the Fund during such
fiscal quarter, which report includes (1) an itemization of the types of
expenses and the purposes therefore; (2) the amounts of such expenses; and
(3) a description of the benefits derived by each Series of the Fund. In the
Trustees' quarterly review of the Plan they consider its continued
appropriateness and the level of compensation provided therein.
No interested person of the Fund nor any Independent Trustee has any
direct financial interest in the operation of the Plan except to the extent
that the Distributor, the Investment Manager, Dean Witter Reynolds, MSDW
Services Company or certain of their employees may be deemed to have such an
interest as a result of benefits derived from the successful operation of the
Plan or as a result of receiving a portion of the amounts expended thereunder
by the Fund.
The most recent continuance of the Plan for one year, until April 30,
1999, was approved by the Trustees, including a majority of the Independent
Trustees, at a Board meeting held on April 30, 1998.
F. OTHER SERVICE PROVIDERS
(1) TRANSFER AGENT/DIVIDEND-PAYING AGENT
Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Trust FSB is the Transfer Agent for the Fund's
shares and the Dividend Disbursing Agent for payment of dividends and
distributions on Fund shares and Agent for shareholders under various
investment plans. The principal business address of the Transfer Agent is
Harborside Financial Center, Plaza Two, Jersey City, New Jersey 07311.
(2) CUSTODIAN AND INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
The Bank of New York, 90 Washington Street, New York, New York 10286 is
the Custodian for the Fund's assets. Any of the Fund's cash balances with the
Custodian in excess of $100,000 are unprotected by federal deposit insurance.
These balances may, at times, be substantial.
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PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, 1177 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New
York 10036 serves as the independent accountants of the Fund. The independent
accountants are responsible for auditing the annual financial statements of
the Fund.
(3) AFFILIATED PERSONS
The Transfer Agent is an affiliate of the Investment Manager, and of the
Distributor. As Transfer Agent and Dividend Disbursing Agent, the Transfer
Agent's responsibilities include maintaining shareholder accounts, disbursing
cash dividends and reinvesting dividends, processing account registration
changes, handling purchase and redemption transactions, mailing prospectuses
and reports, mailing and tabulating proxies, processing share certificate
transactions, and maintaining shareholder records and lists. For these
services, the Transfer Agent receives a per shareholder account fee from the
Fund.
VI. BROKERAGE ALLOCATION AND OTHER PRACTICES
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A. BROKERAGE TRANSACTIONS
Subject to the general supervision of the Trustees, the Investment Manager
is responsible for decisions to buy and sell securities for each Series, the
selection of brokers and dealers to effect the transactions, and the
negotiation of brokerage commissions, if any. Each Series expects that the
primary market for the securities in which it intends to invest will
generally be the over-the-counter market. Securities are generally traded in
the over-the-counter market on a "net" basis with dealers acting as principal
for their own accounts without a stated commission, although the price of the
security usually includes a profit to the dealer. Each Series also expects
that securities will be purchased at times in underwritten offerings where
the price includes a fixed amount of compensation, generally referred to as
the underwriter's concession or discount. On occasion each Series may also
purchase certain money market instruments directly from an issuer, in which
case no commissions or discounts are paid.
During the fiscal years ended November 30, 1996, 1997 and 1998, the Fund
and each Series paid no such brokerage commissions or concessions.
B. COMMISSIONS
Pursuant to an order of the SEC, each Series may effect principal
transactions in certain money market instruments with Dean Witter Reynolds.
Each Series will limit its transactions with Dean Witter Reynolds to U.S.
Government and Government Agency Securities, Bank Money Instruments (i.e.
Certificates of Deposit and Bankers' Acceptances) and Commercial Paper (not
including Tax-Exempt Municipal Paper). The transactions will be effected with
Dean Witter Reynolds only when the price available from Dean Witter Reynolds
is better than that available from other dealers.
During the fiscal years ended November 30, 1996, 1997 and 1998, the Series
did not effect any principal transactions with Dean Witter Reynolds.
Consistent with the policy described above, brokerage transactions in
securities listed on exchanges or admitted to unlisted trading privileges may
be effected through Dean Witter Reynolds, Morgan Stanley & Co. and other
affiliated brokers and dealers. In order for an affiliated broker or dealer
to effect any portfolio transactions on an exchange for any Series, the
commissions, fees or other remuneration received by the affiliated broker or
dealer must be reasonable and fair compared to the commissions, fees or other
remuneration paid to other brokers in connection with comparable transactions
involving similar securities being purchased or sold on an exchange during a
comparable period of time. This standard would allow the affiliated broker or
dealer to receive no more than the remuneration which would be expected to be
received by an unaffiliated broker in a commensurate arm's-length
transaction. Furthermore, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees,
have adopted procedures which are reasonably designed to provide that any
commissions, fees or other remuneration paid to an affiliated broker or
dealer are consistent with the foregoing standard. Each Series does not
reduce the management fee it pays to the Investment Manager by any amount of
the brokerage commissions it may pay to an affiliated broker or dealer.
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During the fiscal years ended November 30, 1996, 1997 and 1998, the Fund
and the Series paid no brokerage commissions to an affiliated broker or
dealer.
C. BROKERAGE SELECTION
The policy of the Fund regarding purchases and sales of securities for
each Series' portfolio is that primary consideration will be given to
obtaining the most favorable prices and efficient executions of transactions.
In seeking to implement the Fund's policies, the Investment Manager
effects transactions with those brokers and dealers who the Investment
Manager believes provide the most favorable prices and are capable of
providing efficient executions. If the Investment Manager believes the prices
and executions are obtainable from more than one broker or dealer, it may
give consideration to placing portfolio transactions with those brokers and
dealers who also furnish research and other services to the Fund or the
Investment Manager. The services may include, but are not limited to, any one
or more of the following: information as to the availability of securities
for purchase or sale; statistical or factual information or opinions
pertaining to investment; wire services; and appraisals or evaluations of
portfolio securities.
The information and services received by the Investment Manager from
brokers and dealers may be of benefit to the Investment Manager in the
management of accounts of some of its other clients and may not in all cases
benefit the Fund directly. While the receipt of such information and services
is useful in varying degrees and would generally reduce the amount of
research or services otherwise performed by the Investment Manager and
thereby reduce its expenses, it is of indeterminable value and the Fund does
not reduce the management fee it pays to the Investment Manager by any amount
that may be attributable to the value of such services.
Subject to the principle of obtaining best price and execution, the
Investment Manager may consider a broker-dealer's sales of shares of a Series
as a factor in selecting from among those broker-dealers qualified to provide
comparable prices and execution on the Series' portfolio transactions. The
Fund does not, however, require a broker-dealer to sell shares of a Series in
order for it to be considered to execute portfolio transactions, and will not
enter into any arrangement whereby a specific amount or percentage of a
Series' transactions will be directed to a broker which sells shares of the
Series to customers. The Trustees review, periodically, the allocation of
brokerage orders to monitor the operation of these policies.
The Investment Manager currently serves as investment manager to a number
of clients, including other investment companies, and may in the future act
as investment manager or advisor to others. It is the practice of the
Investment Manager to cause purchase and sale transactions to be allocated
among the Series and others whose assets it manages in such manner as it
deems equitable. In making such allocations among the Series and other client
accounts, various factors may be considered, including the respective
investment objectives, the relative size of portfolio holdings of the same or
comparable securities, the availability of cash for investment, the size of
investment commitments generally held and the opinions of the persons
responsible for managing the portfolios of the Series and other client
accounts. In the case of certain initial and secondary public offerings, the
Investment Manager utilizes a pro rata allocation process based on the size
of the Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds involved and the number of shares
available from the public offering.
D. DIRECTED BROKERAGE
During the fiscal year ended November 30, 1998, the Fund and the Series
did not pay any brokerage commissions to brokers because of research services
provided.
E. REGULAR BROKER-DEALERS
During the fiscal year ended November 30, 1998, the Fund did not purchase
securities issued by brokers or dealers that were among the ten brokers or
the ten dealers which executed transactions for or with the Fund in the
largest dollar amounts during the year. At November 30, 1998, the Fund did
not own any securities issued by any of such issuers.
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VII. CAPITAL STOCK AND OTHER SECURITIES
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The shareholders of each Series of the Fund are entitled to a full vote
for each full share of beneficial interest held. The Fund is authorized to
issue an unlimited number of shares of beneficial interest. All shares of
beneficial interest of the Fund are of $0.01 par value and are equal as to
earnings, assets and voting privileges.
The Fund's Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to authorize the
creation of additional series of shares (the proceeds of which would be
invested in separate, independently managed portfolios) and additional
Classes of shares within any series. The Trustees have not presently
authorized any such additional series or Classes of shares other than as set
forth in the Prospectus.
The Fund is not required to hold annual meetings of shareholders and in
ordinary circumstances the Fund does not intend to hold such meetings. The
Trustees may call special meetings of shareholders for action by shareholder
vote as may be required by the Investment Company Act or the Declaration of
Trust. Under certain circumstances, the Trustees may be removed by action of
the Trustees or by the shareholders.
Under Massachusetts law, shareholders of a business trust may, under
certain limited circumstances, be held personally liable as partners for the
obligations of the Fund. However, the Declaration of Trust contains an
express disclaimer of shareholder liability for acts or obligations of the
Fund, requires that notice of such Fund obligations include such disclaimer,
and provides for indemnification out of the Fund's property for any
shareholder held personally liable for the obligations of the Fund. Thus, the
risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss on account of shareholder
liability is limited to circumstances in which the Fund itself would be
unable to meet its obligations. Given the above limitations on shareholder
personal liability, and the nature of the Fund's assets and operations, the
possibility of the Fund being unable to meet its obligations is remote and
thus, in the opinion of Massachusetts counsel to the Fund, the risk to Fund
shareholders of personal liability is remote.
All of the Trustees have been elected by the shareholders of the Fund,
most recently at a Special Meeting of Shareholders held on May 21, 1997. The
Trustees themselves have the power to alter the number and the terms of
office of the Trustees (as provided for in the Declaration of Trust), and
they may at any time lengthen or shorten their own terms or make their terms
of unlimited duration and appoint their own successors, provided that always
at least a majority of the Trustees has been elected by the shareholders of
the Fund.
VIII. PURCHASE, REDEMPTION AND PRICING OF SHARES
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A. PURCHASE/REDEMPTION OF SHARES
Information concerning how the shares of each Series are offered to the
public (and how they are redeemed and exchanged) is provided in the Fund's
Prospectus.
TRANSFER AGENT AS AGENT. With respect to the redemption or repurchase of
Series shares, the application of proceeds to the purchase of new shares in a
Series or any other Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds and the general
administration of the exchange privilege, the Transfer Agent acts as agent
for the Distributor and for the shareholder's authorized broker-dealer, if
any, in the performance of such functions. With respect to exchanges,
redemptions or repurchases, the Transfer Agent shall be liable for its own
negligence and not for the default or negligence of its correspondents or for
losses in transit. The Fund shall not be liable for any default or negligence
of the Transfer Agent, the Distributor or any authorized broker-dealer.
The Distributor and any authorized broker-dealer have appointed the
Transfer Agent to act as their agent in connection with the application of
proceeds of any redemption of Fund shares to the purchase of shares of any
other Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Fund and the general administration of the
exchange privilege. No commission or discounts will be paid to the
Distributor or any authorized broker-dealer for any transaction pursuant to
the exchange privilege.
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B. OFFERING PRICE
The price of each Series, called "net asset value," is based on the value
of each Series' portfolio securities.
Portfolio securities (other than short-term debt securities and futures
and options) are valued for the Fund by an outside independent pricing
service approved by the Trustees. The pricing service has informed the Fund
that in valuing the portfolio securities for each Series it uses both a
computerized grid matrix of tax-exempt securities and evaluations by its
staff, in each case based on information concerning market transactions and
quotations from dealers which reflect the bid side of the market each day.
The portfolio securities for each Series are thus valued by reference to a
combination of transactions and quotations for the same or other securities
believed to be comparable in quality, coupon, maturity, type of issue, call
provisions, trading characteristics and other features deemed to be relevant.
The Trustees believe that timely and reliable market quotations are generally
not readily available to the Fund for purposes of valuing tax-exempt
securities and that the valuations supplied by the pricing service, using the
procedures outlined above and subject to periodic review, are more likely to
approximate the fair value of such securities. The Investment Manager will
periodically review and evaluate the procedures, methods and quality of
services provided by the pricing service then being used by the Fund and may,
from time to time, recommend to the Trustees the use of other pricing
services or discontinuance of the use of any pricing service in whole or
part. The Trustees may determine to approve such recommendation or take other
provisions for pricing of the portfolio securities for each Series.
Short-term taxable debt securities with remaining maturities of 60 days or
less at time of purchase are valued at amortized cost, unless the Trustees
determine such does not reflect the securities' market value, in which case
these securities will be valued at their fair value as determined by the
Trustees. Other taxable short-term debt securities with maturities of more
than 60 days will be valued on a mark to market basis until such time as they
reach a maturity of 60 days, whereupon they will be valued at amortized cost
using their value on the 61st day unless the Trustees determine such does not
reflect the securities' fair value, in which case these securities will be
valued at their fair market value as determined by the Trustees. Listed
options on debt securities are valued at the latest sale price on the
exchange on which they are listed unless no sales of such options have taken
place that day, in which case, they will be valued at the mean between their
closing bid and asked prices. Unlisted options on debt securities are valued
at the mean between their latest bid and asked price. Futures are valued at
the latest sale price on the commodities exchange on which they trade unless
the Trustees determines that such price does not reflect their fair value, in
which case they will be valued at their fair market value as determined by
the Trustees. All other securities and other assets are valued at their fair
value as determined in good faith under procedures established by and under
the supervision of the Trustees.
IX. TAXATION OF THE FUND AND SHAREHOLDERS
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Each Series generally will make three basic types of distributions: tax
exempt dividends, ordinary dividends and long-term capital gain
distributions. These types of distributions are reported differently on a
shareholder's income tax return and they are also subject to different rates
of tax. The tax treatment of the investment activities of each Series will
affect the amount and timing and character of the distributions made by the
Series. Shareholders are urged to consult their own tax professionals
regarding specific questions as to federal, state or local taxes.
INVESTMENT COMPANY TAXATION. Each Series intends to remain qualified as a
regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code
of 1986. As such, each Series will not be subject to federal income tax on
its net investment income and capital gains, if any, to the extent that it
distributes such income and capital gains to its shareholders.
Each Series generally intends to distribute sufficient income and gains so
that the Series will not pay corporate income tax on its earnings. Each
Series also generally intends to distribute to its shareholders in each
calendar year a sufficient amount of ordinary income and capital gains to
avoid the imposition of a 4% excise tax. However, a Series may instead
determine to retain all or part of any ordinary income or capital gains in
any year for reinvestment. In such event, such Series will pay federal income
tax (and possibly excise tax) on such retained gains.
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Gains or losses on sales of securities by a Series will be long-term
capital gains or losses if the securities have a tax holding period of more
than one year. Gains or losses on the sale of securities with a tax holding
period of one year or less will be short-term gains or losses.
In computing net investment income, each Series will amortize any premiums
and original issue discounts on securities owned, if applicable. Capital
gains or losses realized upon sale or maturity of such securities will be
based on their amortized cost.
All or a portion of any gain from tax-exempt obligations purchased at a
market discount may be treated as ordinary income rather than capital gain.
From time to time, proposals have been introduced before Congress for the
purpose of restricting or eliminating the federal income tax exemption for
interest on municipal securities. Similar proposals may be introduced in the
future. If such a proposal were enacted, the availability of municipal
securities for investment by a Series could be affected. In that event, each
Series would re-evaluate its investment objective and policies.
TAXATION OF DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS. Each Series intends to qualify to
pay "exempt-interest dividends" to its shareholders by maintaining, as of the
close of each of its taxable years, at least 50% of the value of its assets
in tax-exempt securities. An exempt-interest dividend is that part of the
dividend distributions made by a Series which consists of interest received
by the Series on tax-exempt securities upon which the shareholder incurs no
federal income taxes. Exempt-interest dividends are included, however, in
determining what portion, if any, of a person's Social Security benefits are
subject to federal income tax.
Each Series intends to invest a portion of its assets in certain "private
activity bonds". As a result, a portion of the exempt-interest dividends paid
by each Series will be an item of tax preference to shareholders subject to
the alternative minimum tax. Certain corporations which are subject to the
alternative minimum tax may also have to include exempt-interest dividends in
calculating their alternative minimum taxable income in situations where the
"adjusted current earnings" of the corporation exceeds its alternative
minimum taxable income.
Shareholders will be subject to federal income tax on dividends paid from
interest income derived from taxable securities and on distributions of net
short-term capital gains. Such dividends and distributions are taxable to the
shareholder as ordinary dividend income regardless of whether the shareholder
receives such distributions in additional shares or in cash. Distributions of
long-term capital gains, if any, are taxable as long-term capital gains,
regardless of how long the shareholder has held the Series shares and
regardless of whether the distribution is received in additional shares or in
cash. Since the income of each Series is expected to be derived entirely from
interest rather than dividends, it is anticipated that no portion of such
dividend distributions will be eligible for the federal dividends received
deduction available to corporations.
Shareholders are generally taxed on any ordinary dividend or capital gain
distributions from a Series in the year they are actually distributed.
However, if any such dividends or distributions are declared in October,
November or December and paid in January then such amounts will be treated
for tax purposes as received by the shareholders on December 31, to
shareholders of record of such month.
Shareholders who are not citizens or residents of the United States and
certain foreign entities may be subject to withholding of United States tax
on distributions made by a Series of any taxable interest income and short
term capital gains.
After the end of each calendar year, shareholders will be sent full
information on their dividends and capital gain distributions for tax
purposes, including the portion taxable as ordinary income, the portion
taxable as long-term capital gains and the percentage of any distributions
which constitute an item of tax preference for purposes of the alternative
minimum tax.
PURCHASES AND REDEMPTIONS AND EXCHANGES OF SERIES SHARES. Any dividend or
capital gains distribution received by a shareholder from a Series will have
the effect of reducing the net asset value of the shareholder's stock in the
Series by the exact amount of the dividend or capital gains distribution.
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Furthermore, capital gains distributions and some portion of the dividends
may be subject to federal income taxes. If the net asset value of the shares
should be reduced below a shareholder's cost as a result of the payment of
dividends or the distribution of realized long-term capital gains, such
payment or distribution would be in part a return of the shareholder's
investment but nonetheless would be taxable to the shareholder. Therefore, an
investor should consider the tax implications of purchasing shares of a
Series immediately prior to a distribution record date.
In general, a sale of shares results in capital gain or loss, and for
individual shareholders, is taxable at a federal rate dependent upon the
length of time the shares were held. A redemption of a shareholder's Series
shares is normally treated as a sale for tax purposes. Shares of a Series
held for a period of one year or less will, for tax purposes, generally
result in short-term gains or losses and those held for more than one year
generally result in long-term gain or loss. Any loss realized by shareholders
upon a redemption of shares within six months of the date of their purchase
will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any
distributions of net long-term capital gains with respect to such shares
during the six-month period.
Gain or loss on the sale or redemption of shares in the Series is measured
by the difference between the amount received and the tax basis of the
shares. Shareholders should keep records of investments made (including
shares acquired through reinvestment of dividends and distributions) so they
can compute the tax basis of their shares. Under certain circumstances a
shareholder may compute and use an average cost basis in determining the gain
or loss on the sale or redemption of shares.
Exchanges of shares in a Series for shares of another Series or for shares
of other Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Funds, are also subject to similar tax
treatment. Such an exchange is treated for tax purposes as a sale of the
original shares in the first Series, followed by the purchase of shares in
the second Series or Fund.
If a shareholder realizes a loss on the redemption or exchange of a shares
in a Series and reinvests in shares of such Series within 30 days before or
after the redemption or exchange, the transactions may be subject to the
"wash sale" rules, resulting in a postponement of the recognition of such
loss for tax purposes.
Interest on indebtedness incurred by shareholders to purchase or carry
shares of the Series is not deductible. Furthermore, entities or persons who
are "substantial users" (or related persons) of facilities financed by
industrial development bonds should consult their tax advisers before
purchasing shares of a Series. "Substantial user" is defined generally by
Income Tax Regulation 1.103-11(b) as including a "non-exempt person" who
regularly uses in a trade or business a part of a facility financed from the
proceeds of industrial development bonds.
THE ARIZONA SERIES -- SPECIAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS. Under a ruling issued by
the Arizona Department of Revenue in 1984, distributions from the Arizona
Series that are received by shareholders that are Arizona taxpayers will not
be subject to Arizona income tax to the extent that those distributions are
attributable to interest on tax-exempt obligations of the State of Arizona or
interest on obligations of the United States. Distributions from the Arizona
Series attributable to obligations of the governments of Puerto Rico, the
Virgin Islands and Guam also are excludible from Arizona income tax pursuant
to federal law. Other distributions from the Arizona Series, including those
related to short-term and long-term capital gains, generally will be taxable
under Arizona law when received by Arizona taxpayers. Interest on
indebtedness incurred (directly or indirectly) by a shareholder to purchase
or carry shares of the Arizona Series should not be deductible for Arizona
income tax purposes to the extent that the Arizona Series holds tax-exempt
obligations of the State of Arizona, obligations of the United States, and
obligations of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and Guam.
The foregoing discussion assumes that in each taxable year the Arizona
Series qualifies and elects to be taxed as a regulated investment company for
federal income tax purposes. In addition, the following discussion assumes
that in each taxable year the Arizona Series qualifies to pay exempt-interest
dividends by complying with the requirement of the Code that at least 50% of
its assets at the close of each quarter of its taxable year is invested in
state, municipal or other obligations, the interest on which is excluded from
gross income for federal income tax purposes pursuant to section 103(a) of
the Code.
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THE CALIFORNIA SERIES -- SPECIAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS. In any year in which
the Fund qualifies as a regulated investment company under the Internal
Revenue Code as in effect on January 1, 1998, and is exempt from federal
income tax, (i) the California Series will also be exempt from the California
corporate income and franchise taxes to the extent it distributes its income
and (ii), provided 50% or more of the value of the total assets of the
California Series at the close of each quarter of its taxable year consists
of obligations the interest on which (when held by an individual) is exempt
from personal income taxation under California law, the California Series
will be qualified under California law to pay "exempt-interest" dividends
which will be exempt from the California personal income tax.
The portion of dividends constituting exempt-interest dividends is that
portion derived from interest on obligations which pay interest excludable
from California personal income under California law. The total amount of
California exempt-interest dividends paid by the California Series to all of
its shareholders with respect to any taxable year cannot exceed the amount of
interest received by the California Series during such year on such
obligations less any expenses and expenditures (including dividends paid to
corporate shareholders) deemed to have been paid from such interest. Any
dividends paid to corporate shareholders subject to the California franchise
tax will be taxed as ordinary dividends to such shareholders.
Individual shareholders of the California Series who reside in California
will not be subject to California personal income tax on distributions
received from the California Series to the extent such distributions are
attributable to interest received by the California Series during its taxable
year on obligations, the interest on which (when held by an individual) is
exempt from taxation under California law.
Because, unlike federal law, California law does not impose personal
income tax on an individual's Social Security benefits, the receipt of
California exempt-interest dividends will have no effect on an individual's
California personal income tax.
Individual shareholders will normally be subject to federal and California
personal income tax on dividends paid from interest income derived from
taxable securities and distributions of net capital gains. In addition,
distributions other than exempt-interest dividends to such shareholders are
includable in income subject to the California alternative minimum tax. For
federal income tax and California personal income tax purposes, distributions
of long-term capital gains, if any, are taxable to shareholders as long-term
capital gains, regardless of how long a shareholder has held shares of the
California Series and regardless of whether the distribution is received in
additional shares or in cash. The maximum federal capital gains rate for
individuals is 20% with respect to capital assets held more than 12 months.
The maximum capital gains rate for corporate shareholders is the same as the
maximum tax rate for ordinary income. In addition, unlike federal law, the
shareholders of the California Series will not be subject to tax, or receive
a credit for tax paid by the California Series, on undistributed capital
gains, if any.
Interest on indebtedness incurred by shareholders or related parties to
purchase or carry shares of an investment company paying exempt-interest
dividends, such as the California Series, generally will not be deductible by
the investor for federal or state personal income tax purposes. In addition,
as a result of California's incorporation of certain provisions of the Code,
a loss realized by a shareholder upon the sale of shares held for six months
or less may be disallowed to the extent of any exempt-interest dividends
received with respect to such shares. Moreover, any loss realized upon the
redemption of shares within six months from the date of purchase of such
shares and following receipt of a long-term capital gains distribution will
be treated as long-term capital loss to the extent of such long-term capital
gains distribution. Finally, any loss realized upon the redemption of shares
within 30 days before or after the acquisition of other shares of the Fund
may be disallowed under the "wash sale" rules.
Distributions from investment income and long-term and short-term capital
gains will not be excludable from taxable income in determining the
California corporate franchise tax for corporate shareholders. Such
distributions may also be includable in income subject to the alternative
minimum tax. In addition, distributions from investment income and long-term
and short-term capital gains may be subject to state taxes in states other
than California, and to local taxes.
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THE FLORIDA SERIES -- SPECIAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS. Under existing Florida
law, neither the State of Florida nor any of its political subdivisions or
other governmental authorities may impose an income tax on individuals.
Accordingly, individual shareholders of the Florida Series will not be
subject to any Florida state or local income taxes on income derived from
investments in the Florida Series. However, such income may be subject to
state or local income taxation under applicable state or local laws in
jurisdictions other than Florida. In addition, the income received from the
Florida Series may be subject to estate taxes under present Florida law and
certain corporations may be subject to the taxes imposed by Chapter 220,
Florida Statutes, on interest, income or profits on debt obligations owned by
corporations as defined in said Chapter 220.
The State of Florida also imposes an annual tax of 2 mills on each dollar
($2.00 per $1,000) of the just valuation of all intangible personal property
that has a taxable situs within the State with certain exemptions and
limitations. However, the entire value of a shareholder's interest in the
Florida Series will be exempt from Florida's intangible personal property tax
if, as is intended, all of the investments and other assets held by the
Florida Series on each annual assessment date are exempt individually from
the intangible personal property tax. It presently is the policy and
intention of the Fund and the Investment Manager to manage the Florida Series
in such a manner as to ensure that on each annual assessment date the Florida
Series will consist of only those investments and other assets which are
exempt from the Florida intangible personal property tax. Accordingly, it is
unlikely that any shareholder of the Florida Series will ever be subject to
such tax. In the event that the Florida Series includes investments or other
assets on the annual assessment date which may subject shareholders to the
Florida intangible personal property tax, the Fund shall so notify the
Shareholders.
THE MASSACHUSETTS SERIES -- SPECIAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS. Under existing
Massachusetts law, provided the Massachusetts Series qualifies as a
"regulated investment company" under the Code, the Massachusetts Series will
not be subject to Massachusetts income or excise taxation. Shareholders of
the Massachusetts Series that are individuals, estates or trusts and are
subject to the Massachusetts personal income tax will not be subject to such
tax on distributions of the Massachusetts Series that qualify as
"exempt-interest dividends" under Section 852(b)(5) of the Code and are
attributable to interest received by the Massachusetts Series on obligations
issued by The Commonwealth of agencies and instrumentalities, or by Puerto
Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands or Guam, which pay interest excludable from
gross income under the Code and exempt from Massachusetts personal income
taxation. Other distributions to such shareholders will generally be included
in income subject to the Massachusetts personal income tax, except for (1)
distributions, if any, attributable to interest received by the Massachusetts
Series on direct obligations of the United States and (2) distributions, if
any, attributable to gain realized by the Massachusetts Series on the sale of
certain Massachusetts obligations issued pursuant to Massachusetts statutes
that specifically exempt such gain from Massachusetts taxation. Dividends
from the Massachusetts Series that qualify as capital gain dividends under
Section 852(b)(3)(C) of the Code, other than such dividends described in the
second clause of the preceding sentence, will be treated as long-term capital
gains for Massachusetts personal income tax purposes.
As a result of a change in the Massachusetts tax laws, applicable to
taxable years beginning on or after January 1, 1996, capital gain income from
the sale or exchange of shares of the Massachusetts Series will be taxed at a
stepped down rate depending on the number of years such shares have been
held. For purposes of determining the holding period, shares acquired prior
to 1/1/96 shall be deemed to have been acquired on 1/1/95, or on the date of
actual acquisition, whichever is later.
In determining the Massachusetts excise tax on corporations subject to
Massachusetts taxation, distributions from the Massachusetts Series, whether
attributable to taxable or tax-exempt income or gain realized by the
Massachusetts Series, will not be excluded from a corporate shareholder's net
income and, in the case of a shareholder that is an intangible property
corporation, shares of the Massachusetts Series will not be excluded from net
worth.
THE MICHIGAN SERIES -- SPECIAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS. Under existing Michigan
law, to the extent that the distributions from the Michigan Series qualify as
"exempt-interest dividends" of a regulated investment company under Section
852(b)(5) of the Code which are attributable to interest on
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tax-exempt obligations of the State of Michigan, its political or
governmental subdivisions, or its governmental agencies or instrumentalities
("Michigan Obligations"), or obligations of the United States or its agencies
or possessions that are exempt from state taxation, such distributions will
also not be subject to Michigan income tax or Michigan single business tax.
To the extent that distributions of the Michigan Series are derived from
other income, including long-or short-term capital gains, the distributions
will not be exempt from Michigan income tax or Michigan single business tax.
Certain Michigan cities have adopted Michigan's uniform city income tax
ordinance, which under the Michigan city income tax act is the only income
tax ordinance that may be adopted by cities in Michigan. To the extent the
distributions on the Michigan Series are not subject to Michigan income tax,
they are not subject to any Michigan city's income tax.
THE MINNESOTA SERIES -- SPECIAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS. Under existing
Minnesota law, provided the Minnesota Series qualifies as a "regulated
investment company" under the Code, and subject to the discussion in the
paragraph below, individual shareholders of the Minnesota Series resident in
Minnesota who are subject to the regular Minnesota personal income tax will
not be subject to such regular Minnesota tax on Minnesota Series dividends to
the extent that such distributions qualify as exempt-interest dividends of a
regulated investment company under Section 852(b)(5) of the Code which are
derived from interest income on tax-exempt obligations of the State of
Minnesota, or its political or governmental subdivisions, municipalities,
governmental agencies or instrumentalities ("Minnesota Sources"). The
foregoing will apply, however, only if the portion of the exempt-interest
dividends from such Minnesota Sources that is paid to all shareholders
represents 95% or more of the exempt-interest dividends that are paid by the
Minnesota Series. If the 95% test is not met, all exempt-interest dividends
that are paid by the Minnesota Series generally will be subject to the
regular Minnesota personal income tax. Even if the 95% test is met, to the
extent that exempt-interest dividends that are paid by the Minnesota Series
are not derived from the Minnesota Sources described in the first sentence of
this paragraph, such dividends generally will be subject to the regular
Minnesota personal income tax. Other distributions of the Minnesota Series,
including distributions from net short-term and long-term capital gains, are
generally not exempt from the regular Minnesota personal income tax.
Legislation enacted in 1995 provides that it is the intent of the
Minnesota legislature that interest income on obligations of Minnesota
governmental units, including obligations of the Minnesota Sources described
above, and exempt-interest dividends that are derived from interest income on
such obligations, be included for Minnesota income tax purposes in the net
income of resident individuals, among others, if it is judicially determined
that the exemption by Minnesota of such interest or such exempt-interest
dividends unlawfully discriminates against interstate commerce because
interest income on obligations of governmental issuers located in other
states, or exempt-interest dividends derived from such obligations, is so
included. This provision applies to taxable years that begin during or after
the calendar year in which such judicial decision becomes final, regardless
of the date on which the obligations were issued, and other remedies apply
for previous taxable years. The United States Supreme Court in 1995 denied
certiorari in a case in which an Ohio state court upheld an exemption for
interest income on obligations of Ohio governmental issuers, even though
interest income on obligations of non-Ohio governmental issuers was subject
to tax. In 1997, the United States Supreme Court denied certiorari in a
subsequent case from Ohio, involving the same taxpayer and the same issue, in
which the Ohio Supreme Court refused to reconsider the merits of the case on
the ground that the previous final state court judgment barred any claim
arising out of the transaction that was the subject of the previous action.
It cannot be predicted whether a similar case will be brought in Minnesota or
elsewhere, or what the outcome of such case would be.
Minnesota presently imposes an alternative minimum tax on resident
individuals that is based, in part, on their federal alternative minimum
taxable income, which includes federal tax preference items. The Code
provides that interest on specified private activity bonds is a federal tax
preference item, and that an exempt-interest dividend of a regulated
investment company constitutes a federal tax preference item to the extent of
its proportionate share of the interest on such private activity bonds.
Accordingly,
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exempt-interest dividends that are attributable to such private activity bond
interest, even though they are derived from the Minnesota Sources described
above, will be included in the base upon which such Minnesota alternative
minimum tax is computed. In addition, the entire portion of exempt-interest
dividends that is derived from sources other than the Minnesota Sources
described above generally is also subject to the Minnesota alternative
minimum tax. Further, should the 95% test that is described above fail to be
met, all of the exempt-interest dividends that are paid by the Minnesota
Series, including all of those that are derived from the Minnesota Sources
described above, generally will be subject to the Minnesota alternative
minimum tax.
Subject to certain limitations that are set forth in the Minnesota rules,
Minnesota Series dividends, if any, that are derived from interest on certain
United States obligations are not subject to the regular Minnesota personal
income tax or the Minnesota alternative minimum tax, in the case of
individual shareholders of the Minnesota Series who are resident in
Minnesota.
Minnesota Series distributions, including exempt-interest dividends, are
not excluded in determining the Minnesota franchise tax on corporations that
is measured by taxable income and alternative minimum taxable income.
Minnesota Series distributions may also be taken into account in certain
cases in determining the minimum fee that is imposed on corporations, S
corporations and partnerships.
Interest on indebtedness incurred or continued by a shareholder of the
Minnesota Series to purchase or carry shares of the Minnesota Series will
generally not be deductible for regular Minnesota personal income tax
purposes or Minnesota alternative minimum tax purposes, in the case of
individual shareholders of the Minnesota Series who are resident in
Minnesota.
Shares of the Minnesota Series will not be subject to the Minnesota
personal property tax.
THE NEW JERSEY SERIES -- SPECIAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS. Under existing New
Jersey law, as long as the New Jersey Series qualifies as a "qualified
investment fund," shareholders of the New Jersey Series may exclude certain
distributions from the New Jersey Series from gross income for purposes of
calculating the New Jersey gross income tax imposed on individuals, estates
and certain trusts. Distributions permitted to be excluded are those that are
attributable to interest or gain from obligations (1) issued by or on behalf
of New Jersey or any county, municipality, school or other district, agency,
authority, commission, instrumentality, public corporation, body corporate
and politic or political subdivision of New Jersey, or (2) statutorily free
from New Jersey or local taxation under other acts of New Jersey or under the
laws of the United States.
A "qualified investment fund", as defined by applicable New Jersey law, is
any investment company or trust registered with the Securities Exchange
Commission, or any series of such investment company or trust, which, for the
calendar year in which the distribution is paid, (a) has no investments other
than interest-bearing obligations, obligations issued at a discount, and cash
and cash items, including receivables, and financial options, futures,
forward contracts, or other similar financial instruments related to
interest-bearing obligations, obligations issued at a discount or bond
indexes related thereto; and (b) has not less than 80% of the aggregate
principal amount of all its investments, excluding financial options,
futures, forward contracts, or other similar financial instruments related to
interest-bearing obligations, obligations issued at a discount or bond
indexes related thereto to the extent such instruments are authorized by
section 851(b) of the federal Internal Revenue Code, 26 U.S.C. Section
851(b), cash and cash items (including receivables), in obligations of the
types described in the preceding paragraph. Failure to satisfy the "80%
investment test" described in clause (b) of the preceding sentence, even if
necessary to maintain a "defensive" position, would cause all distributions
from the New Jersey Series to be included in the gross income of shareholders
for purposes of calculating the New Jersey gross income tax.
The foregoing exclusion applies only to shareholders who are individuals,
estates, and trusts, subject to the New Jersey gross income tax. That tax
does not apply to corporations, and while certain qualifying distributions
are exempt from corporation income tax, all distributions will be reflected
in the net income tax base for purposes of computing the corporation business
tax.
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The New Jersey Series will notify shareholders by February 15 of each
calendar year as to the portion of its distributions for the preceding
calendar year that is exempt from federal income and New Jersey income taxes.
THE NEW YORK SERIES -- SPECIAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS. Under existing New York
law, individual shareholders who are New York residents will not incur any
federal, New York State or New York City income tax on the amount of
exempt-interest dividends received by them from the Series which represents a
distribution of income from New York tax-exempt securities whether taken in
cash or reinvested in additional shares.
Exempt-interest dividends are included, however, in determining what
portion, if any, of a person's Social Security benefits are subject to
federal income tax.
Interest on indebtedness incurred or continued to purchase or carry shares
of an investment company paying exempt-interest dividends, such as the Fund,
may not be deductible by the investor for State or City personal income tax
purposes.
Shareholders will normally be subject to federal, New York State or New
York City income tax on dividends paid from interest income derived from
taxable securities and on distributions of net capital gains. For federal and
New York State or New York City income tax purposes, distributions of net
long-term capital gains, if any, are taxable to shareholders as long-term
capital gains, regardless of how long the shareholder has held the Fund
shares and regardless of whether the distribution is received in additional
shares or in cash. Distributions from investment income and capital gains,
including exempt-interest dividends, may be subject to New York franchise
taxes if received by a corporation doing business in New York, to state taxes
in states other then New York and to local taxes.
THE OHIO SERIES -- SPECIAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS. Under existing Ohio law,
provided the Ohio Series qualifies as a "regulated investment company" under
the Code, the Ohio Series will not be subject to the Ohio personal income
tax, the Ohio corporation franchise tax, or to income taxes imposed by
municipalities and other political subdivisions in Ohio. Individual
shareholders of the Ohio Series who are subject to the Ohio personal income
taxes will not be subject to such taxes on distributions with respect to
shares of the Ohio Series to the extent that such distributions are directly
attributable to interest on obligations issued by the State of Ohio, its
counties and municipalities, authorities, instrumentalities or other
political subdivisions ("Ohio Obligations"). Corporate shareholders of the
Ohio Series that are subject to the Ohio corporation franchise tax computed
on the net income basis will not be subject to such tax on distributions with
respect to shares of the Ohio Series to the extent that such distributions
either (a) are attributable to interest on Ohio obligations, or (b) represent
"exempt-interest dividends" as defined in Section 852 of the Code. Shares of
the Ohio Series will, however, be included in a corporate shareholder's tax
base for purposes of computing the Ohio corporation franchise tax on the net
worth basis.
Distributions with respect to the Ohio Series that are attributable to
interest on obligations of the United States or its territories or
possessions (including the Governments of Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands,
and Guam), or of any authority, commission or instrumentality of the United
States that is exempt from state income taxes under the laws of the United
States, will not be subject to the Ohio personal income tax, the Ohio
corporation franchise tax (to the extent computed on the net income basis),
or to taxes imposed by municipalities and other political subdivisions in
Ohio.
Capital gains distributed by the Ohio Series attributable to any profits
made on the sale, exchange, or other disposition by the Ohio Series of Ohio
Obligations will not be subject to the Ohio personal income tax, the Ohio
corporation franchise tax (to the extent computed on the net income basis),
or to taxes imposed by municipalities and other political subdivisions in
Ohio.
Interest on indebtedness incurred or continued (directly or indirectly) by
a shareholder of the Ohio Series to purchase or carry shares of the Ohio
Series will not be deductible for Ohio personal income tax purposes.
THE PENNSYLVANIA SERIES -- SPECIAL TAX CONSIDERATIONS. Individual
shareholders of the Pennsylvania Series resident in the Commonwealth of
Pennsylvania will not be subject to Pennsylvania
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personal income tax on distributions received from the Pennsylvania Series to
the extent such distributions are attributable to interest on tax-exempt
obligations of the Commonwealth, its agencies, authorities and political
subdivisions or obligations of the United States or of the Governments of
Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands and Guam. Other distributions from the
Pennsylvania Series, including capital gains generally and interest on
securities not described in the preceding sentence, generally will not be
exempt from Pennsylvania Personal Income Tax.
Other than the School District of Philadelphia, political subdivisions of
the Commonwealth have not been authorized to impose an unearned income tax
upon resident individuals. Individual shareholders who reside in the
Philadelphia School District will not be subject to the School District
Unearned Income Tax on (i) distributions received from the Pennsylvania
Series to the extent that such distributions are exempt from Pennsylvania
Personal Income Tax, or (ii) distributions of capital gains income by the
Pennsylvania Series.
Corporate shareholders who are subject to the Pennsylvania Corporate Net
Income Tax will not be subject to that tax on distributions by the
Pennsylvania Series that qualify as "exempt-interest dividends" under Section
852(b)(5) of the U.S. Internal Revenue Code or are attributable to interest
on obligations of the United States or agencies or instrumentalities thereof.
For Capital Stock/Foreign Franchise Tax purposes, corporate shareholders must
normally reflect their investment in the Pennsylvania Series and the
dividends received thereon in the determination of the taxable value of their
capital stock.
The Pennsylvania Series will not be subject to Corporate Net Income Tax or
other corporate taxation in Pennsylvania.
A Pennsylvania statute purports to authorize most counties to impose a tax
on intangible personal property of their residents. Although this tax is
presently under constitutional challenge in the courts, some counties may
attempt to levy the tax. Shares in the Pennsylvania Series constitute
intangible personal property. However, shares in the Pennsylvania Series will
not be subject to intangible personal property taxation to the extent that
the intangible personal property owned in the portfolio of the Pennsylvania
Series would not be subject to such taxation if owned directly by a resident
of Pennsylvania. The Pennsylvania Series will invest predominantly in
obligations of the Commonwealth, its agencies, authorities and political
subdivisions, or obligations of the United States or the Governments of
Puerto Rico, the Virgin Islands or Guam, which obligations are not subject to
intangible personal property taxation in Pennsylvania. Only the fraction, if
any, of the value of the Pennsylvania Series' portfolio not invested in
securities described in the preceding sentence would be subject to any
applicable intangible personal property tax.
X. UNDERWRITERS
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The shares of each Series are offered to the public on a continuous basis.
The Distributor, as the principal underwriter of the shares, has certain
obligations under the Distribution Agreement concerning the distribution of
the shares. These obligations and the compensation the Distributor receives
are described above in the sections titled "Principal Underwriter" and "Rule
12b-1 Plans."
XI. CALCULATION OF PERFORMANCE DATA
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As discussed in the Prospectus, from time to time each Series of the Fund
may quote its "yield" and/or its "total return" in advertisements and sales
literature. The yield of each Series is calculated for any 30-day period as
follows: the amount of interest income for each security in a particular
Series' portfolio is determined in accordance with regulatory requirements;
the total for the entire portfolio constitutes the Series' gross income for
the period. Expenses accrued during the period are subtracted to arrive at
"net investment income". The resulting amount is divided by the product of
the net asset value per share of that Series on the last day of the period
multiplied by the average number of the Series' shares outstanding during the
period that were entitled to dividends. This amount is added to 1 and raised
to the sixth power. 1 is then subtracted from the result and the difference
is multiplied by 2 to arrive at the annualized yield. For the 30 day period
ended November 30, 1998, the yields, calculated pursuant to the formula
described above, for the Arizona Series, the California Series, the Florida
Series, the
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Massachusetts Series, the Michigan Series, the Minnesota Series, the New
Jersey Series, the New York Series, the Ohio Series and the Pennsylvania
Series were 3.66%, 4.04%, 3.78%, 3.81%, 3.89%, 3.75%, 3.86%, 3.87%, 4.05% and
4.05% respectively.
To determine interest income from debt obligations, a yield-to-maturity,
expressed as a percentage, is determined for obligations held at the
beginning of the period, based on the current market value of the security
plus accrued interest, generally as of the end of the month preceding the
30-day period, or, for obligations purchased during the period, based on the
cost of the security (including accrued interest). The yield-to-maturity is
multiplied by the market value (plus accrued interest) for each security and
the result is divided by 360 and multiplied by 30 days or the number of days
the security was held during the period, if less. Modifications are made for
determining yield-to-maturity on certain tax-exempt securities.
Each Series of the Fund may also quote a "tax-equivalent yield" determined
by dividing the tax-exempt portion of the quoted yield by 1 minus the stated
income tax rate and adding the result to the portion of the yield that is not
tax-exempt. The tax-equivalent yield for the Arizona Series, the California
Series, the Florida Series, the Massachusetts Series, the Michigan Series,
the Minnesota Series, the New Jersey Series, the New York Series, the Ohio
Series and the Pennsylvania Series based upon a combined Federal and
respective State personal income tax bracket of 42.64%, 45.22%, 39.60%,
43.19%, 42.58%, 44.73%, 43.45%, 43.74%, 43.70% and 41.29% respectively for
the 30 day period ended November 30, 1998, were 6.38%, 7.37%, 6.26%, 6.71%,
6.74%, 6.78%, 6.83%, 6.88%, 7.20% and 6.90% respectively, based upon the
respective yields quoted above.
Each Series' "average annual total return" represents an annualization of
that Series' total return over a particular period and is computed by finding
the annual percentage rate which will result in the ending redeemable value
of a hypothetical $1,000 investment made at the beginning of a one, five or
ten year period, or for the period from the date of commencement of the
Fund's operations, if shorter than any of the foregoing. For the purpose of
this calculation, it is assumed that all dividends and distributions are
reinvested. The formula for computing the average annual total return
involves a percentage obtained by dividing the ending redeemable value by the
amount of the initial investment, taking a root of the quotient (where the
root is equivalent to the number of years in the period) and subtracting 1
from the result.
The average annual total returns of the Arizona Series, California Series,
the Florida Series, the Massachusetts Series, the Michigan Series, the
Minnesota Series, the New Jersey Series, the New York Series, the Ohio Series
and the Pennsylvania Series for the fiscal year ended November 30, 1998, for
the five years ended November 30, 1998 and for the period January 15, 1991
(commencement of operations) (April 30, 1991 for the Arizona Series) through
November 30, 1998 were:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AVERAGE ANNUAL
TOTAL RETURN
FOR PERIOD
FROM
AVERAGE ANNUAL AVERAGE ANNUAL COMMENCEMENT
TOTAL RETURN FOR TOTAL RETURN FOR OF OPERATIONS
FISCAL YEAR ENDED FIVE YEARS ENDED THROUGH
SERIES NOVEMBER 30, 1998 NOVEMBER 30, 1998 NOVEMBER 30, 1998
- -------------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Arizona Series....... 2.30% 4.59% 6.71%
California Series ... 3.28% 5.22% 7.50%
Florida Series....... 3.27% 4.99% 7.19%
Massachusetts
Series.............. 2.75% 5.09% 7.52%
Michigan Series...... 2.94% 5.03% 7.42%
Minnesota Series .... 1.54% 4.53% 6.64%
New Jersey Series ... 3.19% 4.98% 7.31%
New York Series...... 3.20% 5.19% 7.57%
Ohio Series.......... 2.57% 4.97% 7.27%
Pennsylvania Series . 2.34% 4.82% 7.20%
</TABLE>
68
<PAGE>
During the period January 15, 1991 through November 30, 1997, the
Investment Manager assumed certain expenses and waived the compensation
provided for in its Management Agreement with respect to each Series of the
Fund and during specific time periods within this period with respect to only
the Massachusetts Series, Michigan Series, Minnesota Series, New York Series
and Ohio Series. Had each such Series borne these expenses and paid these
fees, the average annual total returns for the fiscal year ended November 30,
1998, for the five years ended November 30, 1998 and for the period January
15, 1991 through November 30, 1998 would have been:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AVERAGE ANNUAL
TOTAL RETURN
(WITHOUT WAIVER)
AVERAGE ANNUAL AVERAGE ANNUAL FOR PERIOD OF
TOTAL RETURN TOTAL RETURN COMMENCEMENT OF
(WITHOUT WAIVER) (WITHOUT WAIVER) OPERATIONS
FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDED FOR FIVE YEARS ENDED THROUGH
SERIES NOVEMBER 30, 1998 NOVEMBER 30, 1998 NOVEMBER 30, 1998
- -------------------- --------------------- -------------------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Massachusetts
Series.............. 2.75% 4.90% 7.24%
Michigan Series...... 2.94% 4.85% 7.14%
Minnesota Series .... 1.54% 4.16% 6.16%
New York Series...... 3.20% 4.93% 7.21%
Ohio Series.......... 2.57% 4.79% 7.01%
</TABLE>
In addition to the foregoing, each Series of the Fund may advertise its
total return over different periods of time by means of aggregate, average,
year-by-year or other types of total return figures. Such calculations may or
may not reflect the imposition of the maximum front-end sales charge, which,
if reflected would reduce the performance quoted. For example, the average
annual total return of each Series of the Fund may be calculated in the
manner described above but without the deduction for any applicable sales
charge.
Based on this calculation, the average annual total returns (without
deduction for applicable sales charge) for the Arizona Series, the California
Series, the Florida Series, the Massachusetts Series, the Michigan Series,
the Minnesota Series, the New Jersey Series, the New York Series, the Ohio
Series and the Pennsylvania Series for the fiscal year ended November 30,
1998, for the five years ended November 30, 1998 and for the period January
15, 1991 (April 30, 1991 for the Arizona Series) through November 30, 1998
were:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TOTAL RETURN TOTAL RETURN
TOTAL RETURN (WITHOUT DEDUCTION (WITHOUT DEDUCTION FOR
(WITHOUT DEDUCTION OF FOR SALES CHARGE)
SALES CHARGE) SALES CHARGE) FOR PERIOD OF COMMENCEMENT
FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDED FOR FIVE YEARS ENDED OF OPERATIONS THROUGH
SERIES NOVEMBER 30, 1998 NOVEMBER 30, 1998 NOVEMBER 30, 1998
- -------------------- --------------------- --------------------- --------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Arizona Series....... 6.56% 5.45% 7.29%
California Series ... 7.58% 6.08% 8.06%
Florida Series....... 7.58% 5.85% 7.75%
Massachusetts
Series.............. 7.03% 5.95% 8.08%
Michigan Series...... 7.23% 5.90% 7.98%
Minnesota Series .... 5.77% 5.38% 7.20%
New Jersey Series ... 7.49% 5.84% 7.87%
New York Series...... 7.50% 6.05% 8.13%
Ohio Series.......... 6.84% 5.83% 7.82%
Pennsylvania Series . 6.60% 5.68% 7.75%
</TABLE>
In addition, the Fund may compute its aggregate total return for specified
periods by determining the aggregate percentage rate which will result in the
ending value of a hypothetical $1,000 investment made at the beginning of the
period. For the purpose of this calculation, it is assumed that all dividends
and distributions are reinvested. The formula for computing aggregate total
return involves a percentage obtained by dividing the ending value (without
reduction for any sales charge) by the initial $1,000 investment and
subtracting 1 from the result. Based on the foregoing calculation, the total
returns for the
69
<PAGE>
fiscal year ended November 30, 1998, for the five years ended November 30,
1998 and for the period January 15, 1991 (May 1, 1991 for the Arizona Series)
through November 30, 1998 were:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TOTAL RETURN
FOR PERIOD OF COMMENCEMENT
TOTAL RETURN TOTAL RETURN OF OPERATIONS
FOR FISCAL YEAR ENDED FOR FIVE YEARS ENDED THROUGH
SERIES NOVEMBER 30, 1998 NOVEMBER 30, 1998 NOVEMBER 30, 1998
- -------------------- --------------------- -------------------- --------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Arizona Series....... 6.56% 30.37% 70.49%
California Series ... 7.58% 34.32% 84.15%
Florida Series....... 7.58% 32.87% 79.95%
Massachusetts
Series.............. 7.03% 33.50% 84.38%
Michigan Series...... 7.23% 33.17% 83.06%
Minnesota Series .... 5.77% 29.98% 72.85%
New Jersey Series ... 7.49% 32.84% 81.59%
New York Series...... 7.50% 34.14% 85.06%
Ohio Series.......... 6.84% 32.78% 80.95%
Pennsylvania Series . 6.60% 31.81% 80.03%
</TABLE>
The Fund may also advertise the growth of the hypothetical investments of
$10,000, $50,000 and $100,000 in shares of any Series of the Fund by adding 1
to the respective Series' aggregate total return to date and multiplying by
$9,600, $48,375 or $97,250 ($10,000, $50,000 or $100,000 adjusted for a 4.0%,
3.25% and 2.75% sales charge). Investments of $10,000 adjusted for a 4.0%
sales charge in the Arizona Series, California Series, Florida Series,
Massachusetts Series, Michigan Series, Minnesota Series, New Jersey Series,
New York Series, Ohio Series and Pennsylvania Series at inception would have
grown to the following amounts:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
INVESTMENT AT COMMENCEMENT
OF OPERATIONS OF
--------------------------------
SERIES $10,000 $50,000 $100,000
- -------------------- --------- --------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Arizona Series....... $16,367 $82,475 $165,802
California Series ... $17,679 $89,083 $179,086
Florida Series....... $17,275 $87,051 $175,001
Massachusetts
Series.............. $17,701 $89,194 $179,310
Michigan Series...... $17,574 $88,555 $178,026
Minnesota Series .... $16,594 $83,616 $168,097
New Jersey Series ... $17,432 $87,844 $176,596
New York Series...... $17,766 $89,523 $179,971
Ohio Series.......... $17,371 $87,535 $175,974
Pennsylvania Series . $17,283 $87,090 $175,079
</TABLE>
Each Series of the Fund from time to time may also advertise its
performance relative to certain performance rankings and indexes compiled by
independent organizations.
XII. FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
EXPERTS. The financial statements of the Fund for the fiscal year ended
November 30, 1998 included in this Statement of Additional Information and
incorporated by reference in the Prospectus have been so included and
incorporated in reliance on the report of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP,
independent accountants, given on the authority of said firm as experts in
auditing and accounting.
* * * * *
This Statement of Additional Information and the Prospectus do not contain
all of the information set forth in the Registration Statement the Fund has
filed with the SEC. The complete Registration Statement may be obtained from
the SEC.
70
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- ARIZONA
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
ARIZONA TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS (93.5%)
General Obligation (14.7%)
$1,000 Paradise Valley Unified School District #69, Ser B 1995 (MBIA)............ 5.25 % 07/01/15 $1,032,780
Phoenix,
1,000 Refg Ser 1992............................................................ 6.375 07/01/13 1,096,800
1,000 Ser 1998................................................................. 4.50 07/01/18 957,250
Tucson,
750 Refg Ser 1995 (FGIC)..................................................... 5.50 07/01/12 798,788
1,000 Refg Ser 1998............................................................ 5.50 07/01/18 1,088,190
1,000 Puerto Rico, Public Improvement Ser 1998 (MBIA)........................... 6.00 07/01/16 1,155,660
- ----------- -------------
5,750 6,129,468
- ----------- -------------
Educational Facilities Revenue (5.1%)
1,000 Arizona Board of Regents, Arizona State University Ser 1992 A............. 5.50 07/01/19 1,034,700
1,000 University of Arizona, Telecommunications Ser 1991 COPs................... 6.50 07/15/12 1,098,710
- ----------- -------------
2,000 2,133,410
- ----------- -------------
Electric Revenue (6.8%)
820 Salt River Project Agricultural Improvement & Power District, Refg 1992
Ser D ................................................................... 6.25 01/01/27 882,820
Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority,
1,000 Power Ser DD (FSA)....................................................... 4.50 07/01/19 948,460
1,000 Power Ser GG (FSA)....................................................... 4.75 07/01/21 978,270
- ----------- -------------
2,820 2,809,550
- ----------- -------------
Hospital Revenue (12.2%)
700 Arizona Health Facilities Authority, Phoenix Memorial Hospital
Refg Ser 1991............................................................ 8.20 06/01/21 752,458
Maricopa County Industrial Development Authority,
2,000 Catholic Healthcare West 1992 Ser A (MBIA)............................... 5.75 07/01/11 2,150,480
1,000 Mayo Clinic Ser 1998..................................................... 5.25 11/15/37 1,007,690
1,100 Pima County Industrial Development Authority, Carondelet Health Care Corp
Ser 1993 (MBIA)**........................................................ 5.25 07/01/13 1,174,107
- ----------- -------------
4,800 5,084,735
- ----------- -------------
Industrial Development/Pollution Control Revenue (9.3%)
1,000 Greenlee County Industrial Development Authority, Phelps Dodge Corp
Refg 1994................................................................ 5.45 06/01/09 1,047,600
1,000 Mohave County Industrial Development Authority, Citizens Utilities Co
1993 Ser B (AMT)......................................................... 5.80 11/15/28 1,032,510
1,700 Santa Cruz County Industrial Development Authority, Citizens Utilities Co
Ser 1991 (AMT)........................................................... 7.15 02/01/23 1,769,938
- ----------- -------------
3,700 3,850,048
- ----------- -------------
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
71
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- ARIZONA
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998, continued
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mortgage Revenue -Multi-Family (2.4%)
$940 Pima County Industrial Development Authority, Rancho Mirage Ser 1992
- -----------
(AMT)(AGRC).............................................................. 7.05 % 04/01/22 $1,005,396
-------------
Public Facilities Revenue (5.0%)
Arizona,
500 Refg Ser 1992 B COPs (AMBAC)............................................. 6.25 09/01/10 543,760
500 Ser 1991 COPs (FSA)...................................................... 6.25 09/01/11 537,705
1,000 Puerto Rico Infrastructure Financing Authority, Special Tax Ser 1997 A
(AMBAC).................................................................. 5.00 07/01/28 1,001,640
- ----------- -------------
2,000 2,083,105
- ----------- -------------
Transportation Facilities Revenue (10.1%)
1,000 Phoenix, Street & Highway User Refg Ser 1993.............................. 5.125 07/01/11 1,037,550
Tucson,
1,000 Street & Highway User Sr Lien Refg Ser 1993.............................. 5.50 07/01/09 1,066,310
1,000 Street & Highway User Sr Lien Refg Ser 1996 (MBIA)....................... 6.00 07/01/10 1,147,890
1,000 Puerto Rico Highway & Transportation Authority, Ser 1998 A................ 4.75 07/01/38 960,360
- ----------- -------------
4,000 4,212,110
- ----------- -------------
Water & Sewer Revenue (24.9%)
1,000 Arizona Wastewater Management Authority, Wastewater Ser 1992 A (AMBAC).... 5.95 07/01/12 1,081,860
1,000 Arizona Water Infrastructure Finance Authority, Water Quality Ser 1998 A
(MBIA)................................................................... 5.00 07/01/17 1,009,060
1,000 Chandler, Water & Sewer Refg Ser 1992 (FGIC).............................. 6.25 07/01/13 1,091,780
1,000 Gilbert, Water & Wastewater Refg Ser 1992 (FGIC).......................... 6.50 07/01/22 1,121,350
1,000 Mesa, Utility Ser 1998 (MBIA)............................................. 4.50 07/02/18 951,170
Phoenix Civic Improvement Corporation,
1,000 Wastewater Jr Lien Ser 1994.............................................. 5.45 07/01/19 1,041,520
1,000 Wastewater Refg Ser 1993................................................. 4.75 07/01/23 968,930
1,000 Scottsdale Water & Sewer Refg Ser 1998 E (WI)............................. 4.50 07/01/23 937,720
2,000 Tucson, Water Refg Ser 1991............................................... 6.50 07/01/16 2,160,280
- ----------- -------------
10,000 10,363,670
- ----------- -------------
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
72
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- ARIZONA
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998, continued
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Refunded (3.0%)
$1,150 Arizona Health Facilities Authority, Phoenix Baptist Hospital & Medical
Center Inc & Medical Environments Inc Ser 1992 (MBIA)(ETM)............... 6.25% 09/01/11 $1,266,127
-------------
37,160 TOTAL ARIZONA TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS
(Identified Cost $36,557,737)................................................................. 38,937,619
-------------
SHORT-TERM ARIZONA TAX EXEMPT MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS (5.7%)
1,700 Maricopa County, Arizona Public Service Co Ser 1994 F (Demand 12/01/98)... 3.25* 05/01/29 1,700,000
700 Tempe, Excise Tax Ser 1998 (Demand 12/01/98).............................. 3.30* 07/01/23 700,000
- ----------- -------------
2,400 TOTAL SHORT-TERM ARIZONA TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS
(Identified Cost $2,400,000).................................................................. 2,400,000
-------------
$39,560 TOTAL INVESTMENTS (Identified Cost $38,957,737) (a)................................ 99.2% 41,337,619
===========
CASH AND OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES..................................... 0.8 317,591
-------------
NET ASSETS......................................................................... 100.0% $41,655,210
=============
</TABLE>
- ------------
AMT Alternative Minimum Tax.
COPs Certificates of Participation.
ETM Escrowed to maturity.
WI Security purchased on a "when-issued" basis.
* Current coupon of variable rate demand obligation.
** This security is segregated in connection with the purchase of a
"when-issued" security.
(a) The aggregate cost for federal income tax purposes approximates
identified cost. The aggregate gross unrealized appreciation is
$2,379,882.
Bond Insurance:
AGRC Asset Guaranty Reinsurance Company.
AMBAC AMBAC Indemnity Corporation.
FGIC Financial Guaranty Insurance Company.
FSA Financial Security Assurance Inc.
MBIA Municipal Bond Investors Assurance Corporation.
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
73
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- CALIFORNIA
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
CALIFORNIA TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS (93.7%)
General Obligation (10.7%)
California,
$2,000 Various Purpose 04/01/93 (FSA) ................................ 5.50 % 04/01/19 $2,086,660
2,000 Refg Dtd 10/01/98 .............................................. 4.50 10/01/28 1,869,180
2,500 Carlsbad Unified School District, Ser 1997 (FGIC) ............... 0.00 11/01/16 1,030,025
3,000 Los Angeles Unified School District, 1997 Ser B (FGIC) ......... 5.00 07/01/23 3,002,490
3,000 Mojave Water Agency, Impr Dist M Morongo Basin Pipeline Refg
Ser 1996 (FGIC) ................................................ 5.80 09/01/22 3,250,290
- ----------- --------------
12,500 11,238,645
- ----------- --------------
Educational Facilities Revenue (11.5%)
California Educational Facilities Authority,
2,000 Carnegie Institution of Washington 1993 Ser A .................. 5.60 10/01/23 2,120,860
4,000 Claremont Colleges Ser 1992 .................................... 6.375 05/01/22 4,295,840
1,360 Loyola Marymount University Refg Ser 1992 ...................... 6.00 10/01/14 1,442,280
1,500 University of San Diego Refg Ser 1998 (AMBAC) .................. 4.75 10/01/15 1,510,725
2,500 University of Southern California Ser 1993 B ................... 5.80 10/01/15 2,673,200
- ----------- --------------
11,360 12,042,905
- ----------- --------------
Electric Revenue (9.9%)
2,000 Kings River Conservation District, Pine Flat Power Ser D ........ 6.00 01/01/17 2,102,020
2,000 Los Angeles Department of Water & Power, Refg Issue of 1993
(Secondary AMBAC) .............................................. 5.375 09/01/23 2,060,860
1,000 Sacramento Municipal Utility District, Refg 1993 Ser D (MBIA) ... 5.625 11/15/15 1,051,860
5,000 Southern California Public Power Authority, Mead -Phoenix
(AMBAC) ....................................................... 5.15 07/01/15 5,245,100
- ----------- --------------
10,000 10,459,840
- ----------- --------------
Hospital Revenue (13.3%)
California Health Facilities Financing Authority,
2,000 Catholic Health Corp Ser 1992 A (MBIA) ......................... 6.00 07/01/13 2,177,560
2,000 Cedars-Sinai Medical Center Ser 1997 A (MBIA) .................. 5.25 08/01/27 2,050,800
3,000 Scripps Memorial Hospitals Ser 1992 A (MBIA) ................... 6.375 10/01/22 3,302,400
2,000 California Statewide Communities Development Authority,
Cedars-Sinai Medical Center Ser 1992 COPs ...................... 6.50 08/01/12 2,308,340
Duarte,
2,000 City of Hope National Medical Center Ser 1993 COPs ............. 6.00 04/01/08 2,094,060
2,000 City of Hope National Medical Center Ser 1993 COPs ............. 6.125 04/01/13 2,104,120
- ----------- --------------
13,000 14,037,280
- ----------- --------------
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
74
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- CALIFORNIA
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998, continued
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Industrial Development/Pollution Control Revenue (1.6%)
$1,500 California Pollution Control Financing Authority, San Diego Gas
& Electric Co 1996 Ser A ....................................... 5.90 % 06/01/14 $1,689,525
--------------
Mortgage Revenue -Multi-Family (2.1%)
2,000 California Housing Finance Agency, Rental II 1992 Ser B ......... 6.70 08/01/15 2,163,200
- ----------- --------------
Mortgage Revenue -Single Family (4.7%)
690 California Housing Finance Agency, Home 1991 Ser C (AMT) (MBIA) . 7.00 08/01/23 736,892
2,880 California Rural Home Finance Authority, 1997 Ser A-2 (AMT) .... 7.00 09/01/29 3,254,688
935 Puerto Rico Housing Finance Corporation, Portfolio One
GNMA-Backed
Ser C .......................................................... 6.85 10/15/23 998,861
- ----------- --------------
4,505 4,990,441
- ----------- --------------
Public Facilities Revenue (7.9%)
5,000 Anaheim Public Financing Authority, 1997 Ser C (FSA) ............ 0.00 09/01/26 1,212,350
2,000 San Francisco California Redevelopment Agency, Ser 1998 (FSA) ... 5.00 07/01/25 2,001,660
2,000 San Jose Financing Authority, Convention Center Refg 1993 Ser C 6.375 09/01/13 2,133,440
2,700 Torrance, Refg 1991 COPs ........................................ 6.80 07/01/12 2,922,858
- ----------- --------------
11,700 8,270,308
- ----------- --------------
Tax Allocation Revenue (1.0%)
1,000 Industry Urban-Development Agency,
Transportation-Distribution-Industrial
Redev Proj #3 1992 Refg ........................................ 6.90 11/01/16 1,096,980
--------------
Transportation Facilities Revenue (8.9%)
2,000 Los Angeles County Transportation Commission, Sales Tax Refg Ser
1991-B ......................................................... 6.50 07/01/13 2,168,020
2,000 San Francisco Bay Area Rapid Transit District, Sales Tax Ser
1998 (AMBAC) ................................................... 4.75 07/01/23 1,946,160
San Joaquin Hills Transportation Corridor Agency,
3,000 Toll Road Refg Ser 1997 A (MBIA) ............................... 0.00 01/15/26 761,310
2,000 Toll Road Refg Ser 1997 A (MBIA) ............................... 5.25 01/15/30 2,045,620
3,000 Toll Road Refg Ser 1997 A (MBIA) ............................... 0.00 01/15/35 481,320
2,000 Puerto Rico Highway & Transportation Authority, Ser 1998 A ...... 4.75 07/01/38 1,920,720
- ----------- --------------
14,000 9,323,150
- ----------- --------------
Water & Sewer Revenue (14.6%)
1,000 Contra Costa Water Authority, 1992 Ser E (AMBAC) ................ 6.25 10/01/12 1,188,990
East Bay Municipal Utility District,
3,000 Water Refg Ser 1992 ............................................ 6.00 06/01/20 3,214,890
2,000 Water Refg Ser 1998 (MBIA) ..................................... 4.75 06/01/34 1,930,200
3,000 Eastern Municipal Water District, Water & Sewer Refg Ser 1998 A
COPs (FGIC) .................................................... 4.75 07/01/23 2,919,240
2,000 Metropolitan Water District of Southern California, Waterworks
1997 Ser A .................................................... 5.00 07/01/26 2,004,980
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
75
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- CALIFORNIA
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998, continued
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
$2,000 San Francisco Public Utilities Commission, Water 1992 Refg Ser A 6.00 % 11/01/15 $2,133,980
2,000 Stockton, Waste Water 1998 Ser A (MBIA) ......................... 5.00 09/01/23 2,001,600
- ----------- --------------
15,000 15,393,880
- ----------- --------------
Refunded (7.5%)
1,000 Alameda County Water District, 1992 COPs (MBIA) ................. 6.20 06/01/02+ 1,104,240
2,000 Los Angeles County, 1991 Master Refg COPs ....................... 6.708 05/01/01+ 2,172,620
4,000 San Diego County Water Authority, Ser 1991-B COPs (MBIA) ........ 6.30 05/01/06+ 4,605,440
- ----------- --------------
7,000 7,882,300
- ----------- --------------
103,565 TOTAL CALIFORNIA TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS
(Identified Cost $91,659,053) ........................................................ 98,588,454
--------------
SHORT-TERM CALIFORNIA TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS (4.9%)
3,550 California Pollution Control Financing Authority, Pacific Gas &
Electric Co
Ser 1997 A (Demand 12/01/98) ................................... 3.25 * 12/01/18 3,550,000
1,560 Newport Beach, Hoag Memorial Hospital/Presbyterian Ser 1992
(Demand 12/01/98) ............................................. 3.25 * 10/01/22 1,560,000
- ----------- --------------
5,110 TOTAL SHORT-TERM CALIFORNIA TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS
(Identified Cost $5,110,000) ........................................................ 5,110,000
--------------
$108,675 TOTAL INVESTMENTS (Identified Cost $96,769,053)(a) ....................... 98.6% 103,698,454
===========
CASH AND OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES ........................... 1.4 1,476,987
-------- --------------
NET ASSETS ............................................................... 100.0% $105,175,441
======== ==============
</TABLE>
- ------------
AMT Alternative Minimum Tax.
COPs Certificates of Participation.
+ Prerefunded to call date shown.
* Current coupon of variable rate demand obligation.
(a) The aggregate cost for federal income tax purposes approximates
identified cost. The aggregate gross unrealized appreciation is
$7,022,857 and the aggregate gross unrealized depreciation is
$93,456, resulting in net unrealized appreciation of $6,929,401.
Bond Insurance:
AMBAC AMBAC Indemnity Corporation.
FGIC Financial Guaranty Insurance Company.
FSA Financial Security Assurance Inc.
MBIA Municipal Bond Investors Assurance Corporation.
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
76
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- FLORIDA
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
FLORIDA TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS (91.6%)
General Obligation (2.7%)
$1,500 Florida Board of Education, Capital Outlay Refg Ser 1992 A ...... 6.40 % 06/01/19 $1,632,195
- ----------- -------------
Educational Facilities Revenue (2.6%)
1,500 Volusia County Educational Facilities Authority, Embry-Riddle
Aeronautical University Ser 1996 A ............................. 6.125 10/15/16 1,615,605
-------------
Electric Revenue (16.6%)
2,000 Jacksonville Electric Authority, St Johns River Power Park Issue
2 Ser 7 ....................................................... 5.50 10/01/14 2,097,280
1,000 Jupiter Island, South Martin Reg Utility Ser 1998 (MBIA) ........ 5.00 10/01/28 1,000,820
1,000 Lakeland, Electric & Water Refg Ser 1996 (FGIC) ................. 6.00 10/01/14 1,145,190
Orlando Utilities Commission,
1,000 Refg Ser 1993 A ................................................ 5.25 10/01/14 1,031,180
1,000 Ser 1993 ....................................................... 5.125 10/01/19 1,006,520
Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority,
2,000 Power Ser DD (FSA) ............................................. 4.50 07/01/19 1,896,920
2,000 Power Ser O .................................................... 5.00 07/01/12 2,003,120
- ----------- -------------
10,000 10,181,030
- ----------- -------------
Hospital Revenue (12.2%)
1,000 Alachua County Health Facilities Authority, Shands Teaching
Hospital &
Clinics Ser 1996 A (MBIA) ...................................... 6.25 12/01/11 1,178,430
1,000 Jacksonville, University Medical Center Inc Ser 1992 (Connie
Lee) .......................................................... 6.60 02/01/21 1,087,990
1,000 Orange County Health Facilities Authority, Adventist
Health/Sunbelt
Ser 1995 (AMBAC) ............................................... 5.25 11/15/20 1,013,530
945 Polk County Industrial Development Authority, United Haven
Hospital
1985 Ser 2 (MBIA) .............................................. 6.25 09/01/15 1,039,282
2,000 Sarasota County Public Hospital Board, Sarasota Memorial
Hospital
Refg Ser 1998 B (MBIA) ......................................... 5.25 07/01/24 2,089,400
1,000 Tampa Health System, Catholic Health East Health Ser 1998 A-1
(MBIA) ........................................................ 5.50 11/15/14 1,086,740
- ----------- -------------
6,945 7,495,372
- ----------- -------------
Industrial Development/Pollution Control Revenue (8.9%)
Citrus County,
500 Florida Power Corp Refg Ser 1992 B ............................. 6.35 02/01/22 543,860
2,000 Florida Power Corp Refg Ser 1992 A ............................. 6.625 01/01/27 2,166,220
1,500 St Johns County Industrial Development Authority, Professional
Golf Hall of Fame Ser 1996 (MBIA) .............................. 5.80 09/01/16 1,627,095
1,000 St Lucie County, Florida Power & Light Co Ser 1992 (AMT) ........ 6.70 05/01/27 1,090,970
- ----------- -------------
5,000 5,428,145
- ----------- -------------
Mortgage Revenue -Single Family (3.4%)
400 Brevard County Housing Finance Authority, Refg Ser 1991 B (FSA) 7.00 03/01/13 422,788
320 Florida Housing Finance Agency, GNMA Collateral 1990 Ser G-1
(AMT) ......................................................... 7.90 03/01/22 336,909
1,230 Puerto Rico Housing Finance Corporation, Portfolio One
GNMA-Backed
Ser C .......................................................... 6.85 10/15/23 1,314,009
- ----------- -------------
1,950 2,073,706
- ----------- -------------
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
77
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- FLORIDA
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998, continued
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Public Facilities Revenue (10.6%)
$2,000 Manatee County School Board, COPs (MBIA) ........................ 4.875% 07/01/18 $1,993,660
1,000 Miami Sports & Exhibition Authority, Refg Ser 1992 A (FGIC) ..... 6.15 10/01/20 1,092,880
3,000 Palm Beach County, Criminal Justice Ser 1997 (FGIC) ............. 5.75 06/01/13 3,368,970
- ----------- -------------
6,000 6,455,510
- ----------- -------------
Resource Recovery Revenue (1.8%)
1,000 Lee County, Solid Waste Ser 1991 A (AMT)(MBIA) .................. 6.50 10/01/13 1,084,210
- ----------- -------------
Transportation Facilities Revenue (20.1%)
1,000 Dade County, Aviation 1992 Ser B (AMT)(MBIA) .................... 6.60 10/01/22 1,103,070
Greater Orlando Aviation Authority,
1,000 Ser 1997 (AMT)(FGIC) ........................................... 5.75 10/01/11 1,110,480
750 Ser 1992 A (AMT)(FGIC) ......................................... 6.50 10/01/12 826,080
1,000 Hillsborough County Aviation Authority, Tampa Int'l Airport
Refg Ser 1993 B (FGIC) ......................................... 5.60 10/01/19 1,052,030
1,500 Lee County, Refg Ser 1991 (AMBAC) ............................... 6.00 10/01/17 1,578,030
Mid-Bay Bridge Authority,
3,000 Refg Ser 1993 A (AMBAC) ........................................ 5.95 10/01/22 3,291,480
3,000 Ser 1997 A (AMBAC) ............................................. 0.00 10/01/24 786,390
1,500 Osceola County, Osceola Parkway (MBIA) .......................... 6.10 04/01/17 1,623,660
1,000 Puerto Rico Highway & Transportation Authority, Ser 1998 A ...... 4.75 07/01/38 960,360
- ----------- -------------
13,750 12,331,580
- ----------- -------------
Water & Sewer Revenue (9.2%)
2,000 Dade County, Water & Sewer Ser 1995 (FGIC) ...................... 5.50 10/01/25 2,108,560
485 Orange County, Water Utilities Ser 1992 (AMBAC) ................. 6.25 10/01/17 527,234
1,000 Sunrise, Utility Refg Ser 1998 (AMBAC) .......................... 5.50 10/01/18 1,088,850
2,000 Tampa Bay, Water Utility Ser 1998 B (FGIC) ...................... 4.75 10/01/27 1,926,900
- ----------- -------------
5,485 5,651,544
- ----------- -------------
Refunded (3.5%)
1,000 Hillsborough County Industrial Authority, Allegany Health/John
Knox Village of Tampa Bay Inc Ser 1992 (MBIA) .................. 6.375 12/01/03+ 1,085,110
1,000 South Broward Hospital District, Ser 1991 B & C (AMBAC) ......... 6.611 05/01/01+ 1,084,820
- ----------- -------------
2,000 2,169,930
- ----------- -------------
55,130 TOTAL FLORIDA TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS
- -----------
(Identified Cost $52,206,628) ........................................................ 56,118,827
-------------
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
78
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- FLORIDA
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998, continued
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SHORT-TERM FLORIDA TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS (5.1%)
$300 Dade County Health Facilities Authority, Miami Children's
Hospital
Ser 1990 (Demand 12/01/98) ..................................... 3.30*% 09/01/20 $300,000
2,800 Escambia County, Gulf Power Co Ser 1997 (Demand 12/01/98) ....... 3.45* 07/01/22 2,800,000
- ----------- -------------
3,100 TOTAL SHORT-TERM FLORIDA TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS
- -----------
(Identified Cost $3,100,000) ......................................................... 3,100,000
-------------
$58,230 TOTAL INVESTMENTS (Identified Cost $55,306,628) (a) ...................... 96.7% 59,218,827
===========
CASH AND OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES ........................... 3.3 2,043,206
---------- -------------
NET ASSETS ............................................................... 100.0% $61,262,033
=========== =============
</TABLE>
- ------------
AMT Alternative Minimum Tax.
COPs Certificates of Participation.
* Current coupon of variable rate demand obligation.
+ Prerefunded to call date shown.
(a) The aggregate cost for federal income tax purposes approximates
identified cost. The aggregate gross unrealized appreciation is
$3,912,199.
Bond Insurance:
AMBAC AMBAC Indemnity Corporation.
Connie Lee Connie Lee Insurance Company.
FGIC Financial Guaranty Insurance Company.
FSA Financial Security Assurance Inc.
MBIA Municipal Bond Investors Assurance Corporation.
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
79
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST --
MASSACHUSETTS SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
MASSACHUSETTS TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS (94.1%)
General Obligation (3.9%)
$500 Massachusetts, Refg 1992 Ser B .................................. 6.50 % 08/01/08 $587,755
- ----------- ----------------
Educational Facilities Revenue (26.3% )
Massachusetts Health & Educational Facilities Authority,
400 Boston University Ser K & L (MBIA) ............................. 6.66 10/01/31 434,632
500 Brandeis University 1998 Ser I (MBIA)(WI) ...................... 4.75 10/01/28 476,970
400 Suffolk University Ser B (Connie Lee) .......................... 6.25 07/01/12 432,516
300 Suffolk University Ser C (Connie Lee) .......................... 5.75 07/01/26 318,834
500 University of Massachusetts Foundation Inc/Medical School
Research
Ser A (Connie Lee) ............................................ 6.00 07/01/23 540,880
Massachusetts Industrial Finance Agency,
500 Babson College Ser 1998 A (MBIA) ............................... 4.75 10/01/28 478,455
500 College of Holy Cross 1996 Issue (MBIA) ........................ 5.50 03/01/16 528,160
300 Mount Holyoke College Refg Ser 1992 A (MBIA) ................... 6.30 07/01/13 322,965
500 Tufts University Ser H (MBIA) .................................. 4.75 02/15/28 478,655
- ----------- ----------------
3,900 4,012,067
- ----------- ----------------
Electric Revenue (7.1% )
500 Massachusetts Municipal Wholesale Electric Company, Power Supply
1992 Ser C ..................................................... 6.625 07/01/18 539,005
500 Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority, Power Ser X ............... 6.00 07/01/15 544,090
- ----------- ----------------
1,000 1,083,095
- ----------- ----------------
Hospital Revenue (13.9%)
500 Boston, Boston City Hospital -FHA Insured Mtge Refg Ser B ....... 5.75 02/15/13 521,250
Massachusetts Health & Educational Facilities Authority,
500 Lahey Clinic Medical Center Ser B (MBIA) ....................... 5.625 07/01/15 525,050
1,000 Massachusetts General Hospital Ser F (AMBAC) ................... 6.00 07/01/15 1,073,480
- ----------- ----------------
2,000 2,119,780
- ----------- ----------------
Industrial Development/Pollution Control Revenue (6.8%)
1,000 Massachusetts Industrial Finance Agency, Eastern Edison Co Refg
Ser 1993 ....................................................... 5.875 08/01/08 1,037,260
- ----------- ----------------
Mortgage Revenue -Multi-Family (3.3%)
470 Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency, Rental 1994 Ser A
(AMT)(AMBAC) ................................................... 6.60 07/01/14 508,813
- ----------- ----------------
Mortgage Revenue -Single Family (4.5%)
Massachusetts Housing Finance Agency,
435 Ser 21 (AMT) ................................................... 6.30 06/01/25 454,684
220 Ser 21 (AMT) ................................................... 7.125 06/01/25 235,761
- ----------- ----------------
655 690,445
- ----------- ----------------
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
80
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST --
MASSACHUSETTS SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998, continued
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Student Loan Revenue (3.9%)
$125 Massachusetts Educational Facilities Authority, Education Loan
Issue D
Ser A 1991 (AMT)(MBIA) ......................................... 7.25% 01/01/09 $133,597
400 New England Education Loan Marketing Corporation, 1992 Sub Issue
H (AMT) ........................................................ 6.90 11/01/09 464,064
- ----------- ----------------
525 597,661
- ----------- ----------------
Transportation Facilities Revenue (14.0%)
500 Massachusetts Bay Transportation Authority, 1998 Ser A (MBIA) ... 5.50 03/01/15 543,280
500 Massachusetts, Federal Highway Grant Anticipation Notes 1998 Ser
A .............................................................. 5.50 06/15/14 536,930
500 Massachusetts Port Authority, Refg Ser 1998 A ................... 5.75 07/01/12 559,205
500 Massachusetts Turnpike Authority, Highway 1997 Ser A (MBIA)** ... 5.00 01/01/37 487,515
- ----------- ----------------
2,000 2,126,930
- -----------
Water & Sewer Revenue (10.4%)
500 Boston Water & Sewer Commission, 1992 Ser A ..................... 5.75 11/01/13 555,485
500 Massachusetts Water Pollution Abatement Trust, Pool Ser 2 ....... 5.70 02/01/12 541,495
500 Massachusetts Water Resources Authority, 1998 Ser A (FSA) ....... 4.75 08/01/27 480,300
- ----------- ----------------
1,500 1,577,280
- ----------- ----------------
13,550 TOTAL MASSACHUSETTS TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS
(Identified Cost $13,334,308) ....................................................... 14,341,086
SHORT-TERM MASSACHUSETTS TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL OBLIGATION (4.6%)
700 Massachusetts Health & Educational Facilities Authority, Capital
Assets
Ser D (MBIA)(Demand 12/01/98) (Identified Cost $700,000) ....... 2.95* 01/01/35 700,000
----------------
$14,250 TOTAL INVESTMENTS (Identified Cost $14,034,308) (a) ...................... 98.7% 15,041,086
===========
CASH AND OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES ........................... 1.3 195,004
-------- ----------------
NET ASSETS ............................................................... 100.0% $15,236,090
======== ================
</TABLE>
- ------------
AMT Alternative Minimum Tax.
WI Security purchased on a "when-issued" basis.
* Current coupon of variable rate demand obligation.
** This security is segregated in connection with the purchase of a
"when-issued" security.
(a) The aggregate cost for federal income tax purposes approximates
identified cost. The aggregate gross unrealized appreciation is
$1,006,778.
Bond Insurance:
AMBAC AMBAC Indemnity Corporation.
Connie Lee Connie Lee Insurance Company.
FSA Financial Security Assurance Inc.
MBIA Municipal Bond Investors Assurance Corporation.
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
81
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- MICHIGAN
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
MICHIGAN TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS (93.1%)
General Obligation (20.9%)
$500 Chelsea School District, 1998 Bldg & Site (FGIC) ................ 5.00 % 05/01/25 $495,635
500 Detroit, Ser 1997 A (MBIA) ..................................... 5.00 04/01/18 499,965
800 Holly Area School District, 1995 Bldg & Site (FGIC) ............. 5.375 05/01/13 836,888
500 Michigan Municipal Bond Authority, School Loan Ser 1998 ........ 5.25 12/01/13 526,115
800 Mona Shores Public Schools, 1995 Bldg & Site (FGIC) ............ 5.80 05/01/17 860,304
500 Puerto Rico, Pub Impr Ser 1998 (MBIA) ........................... 4.875 07/01/23 496,085
- ----------- -------------
3,600 3,714,992
- ----------- -------------
Educational Facilities Revenue (12.3%)
800 Central Michigan University, Refg Ser 1993 (AMBAC) .............. 5.50 10/01/10 843,656
500 Grand Traverse County Hospital, Munson Healthcare Ser 1998 A
(AMBAC) ........................................................ 4.75 07/01/22 476,125
800 Oakland University, Board of Trustees, Ser 1995 (MBIA) ......... 5.75 05/15/26 862,440
- ----------- -------------
2,100 2,182,221
- ----------- -------------
Electric Revenue (10.2%)
500 Michigan Public Power Agency, Belle River 1993 A ............... 5.25 01/01/18 505,420
500 Wyandotte, Electric Refg 1992 (MBIA) ............................ 6.25 10/01/17 548,200
800 Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority, Power Ser DD (FSA) ....... 4.50 07/01/19 758,768
- ----------- -------------
1,800 1,812,388
- ----------- -------------
Hospital Revenue (4.7%)
800 Michigan Hospital Finance Authority, Mercy Health Services 1996
Ser R
(AMBAC) ....................................................... 5.375 08/15/16 824,032
-------------
Industrial Development/Pollution Control Revenue (3.1%)
500 Monroe County, Detroit Edison Co Collateralized Ser 1-1992 (AMT)
(MBIA) ........................................................ 6.875 09/01/22 554,505
- ----------- -------------
Mortgage Revenue -Multi-Family (10.2%)
Michigan Housing Development Authority,
465 Rental Ser 1992 A .............................................. 6.60 04/01/12 503,083
825 1992 Ser A (FSA) ............................................... 6.50 04/01/23 883,088
400 Ser 1990 A (AMT) .............................................. 7.70 04/01/23 429,336
- ----------- -------------
1,690 1,815,507
- ----------- -------------
Public Facilities (5.8%)
500 Michigan Building Authority, Refg Ser I ......................... 6.25 10/01/20 536,965
500 Michigan House of Representatives, Capital Outlook LLC COPs
(AMBAC) ....................................................... 5.00 08/15/20 496,035
- ----------- -------------
1,000 1,033,000
- ----------- -------------
Transportation Facilities Revenue (8.6%)
Wayne County, Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport Sub
Lien,
250 Ser 1991 B (AMT)(MBIA) ........................................ 6.75 12/01/21 272,253
800 Ser 1998 B (MBIA) .............................................. 4.875 12/01/23 774,176
500 Puerto Rico Highway & Transportation Authority, Ser 1998 A ..... 4.75 07/01/38 480,180
- ----------- -------------
1,550 1,526,609
- ----------- -------------
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
82
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- MICHIGAN
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998, continued
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Water & Sewer Revenue (11.1%)
Detroit,
$1,000 Sewage Refg Ser 1993 A (FGIC) ................................. 5.70 % 07/01/23 $1,053,090
400 Water Supply Refg Ser 1992 (FGIC) ............................. 6.375 07/01/22 437,460
500 Grand Rapids, Water Ser 1998 A (FGIC) .......................... 4.75 01/01/28 478,710
- ----------- -------------
1,900 1,969,260
- ----------- -------------
Refunded (6.2%)
1,000 Detroit, Water Supply Refg Ser 1992 (FGIC) ..................... 6.375 07/01/02+ 1,099,640
- ----------- -------------
15,940 TOTAL MICHIGAN TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS
(Identified Cost $15,578,409) ....................................................... 16,532,154
-------------
SHORT-TERM MICHIGAN TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL OBLIGATION (4.5%)
800 Royal Oak Hospital Finance Authority, William Beaumont Hospital
Ser 1996 J (Demand 12/01/98) (Identified Cost $800,000) ....... 3.25 * 01/01/03 800,000
-------------
$16,740 TOTAL INVESTMENTS (Identified Cost $16,378,409) (a) ..................... 97.6% 17,332,154
===========
CASH AND OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES .......................... 2.4 427,056
---------- -------------
NET ASSETS .............................................................. 100.0% $17,759,210
=========== =============
</TABLE>
- ------------
AMT Alternative Minimum Tax.
COPs Certificates of Participation.
+ Prerefunded to call date shown.
* Current coupon of variable rate demand obligation.
(a) The aggregate cost for federal income tax purposes approximates
identified cost. The aggregate gross unrealized appreciation is
$953,745.
Bond Insurance:
AMBAC AMBAC Indemnity Corporation.
FGIC Financial Guaranty Insurance Company.
FSA Financial Security Assurance Inc.
MBIA Municipal Bond Investors Assurance Corporation.
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
83
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- MINNESOTA
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
MINNESOTA TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS (90.4%)
General Obligation (7.2%)
$300 Minneapolis, Various Purpose Refg Ser 1998 D ................... 5.00 % 12/01/17 $303,534
300 Minnesota, Various Purpose Refg Ser 1998 ....................... 5.00 06/01/16 304,992
- ----------- ------------
600 608,526
- ----------- ------------
Educational Facilities Revenue (14.9%)
Minnesota Higher Education Facilities Authority,
200 Northfield St Olaf College 1992 ................................ 6.40 10/01/21 216,978
1,000 University of Minnesota Ser 1993 A ............................. 4.80 08/15/03 1,038,250
- ----------- ------------
1,200 1,255,228
- ----------- ------------
Electric Revenue (7.6%)
200 Southern Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, Ser 1988 A (AMBAC) ... 5.00 01/01/13 205,476
400 Western Minnesota Municipal Power Agency, Refg 1996 Ser A
(AMBAC) ....................................................... 5.50 01/01/12 430,164
- ----------- ------------
600 635,640
- ----------- ------------
Hospital Revenue (13.8%)
400 Robbinsdale, North Memorial Medical Center Ser 1993 A (AMBAC) ... 5.45 05/15/13 421,452
Rochester,
200 Mayo Foundation/Mayo Medical Center Ser 1992 I ................ 5.75 11/15/21 208,688
200 Mayo Foundation/Mayo Medical Center Ser 1992 F ................ 6.25 11/15/21 217,432
290 Saint Paul Housing & Redevelopment Authority, Health East Refg
Ser 1993-A .................................................... 6.625 11/01/17 311,179
- ----------- ------------
1,090 1,158,751
- ----------- ------------
Industrial Development/Pollution Control Revenue (14.8%)
200 Anoka County, United Power Assoc Ser 1987 A (NRU-CFC-Gtd)(AMT) . 6.95 12/01/08 212,634
400 Bass Brook, Minnesota Power & Light Co Refg Ser 1992 ............ 6.00 07/01/22 419,128
Minneapolis Community Development Agency,
100 Ltd Tax Supported Common Bond Fund Ser 1991-3 .................. 8.25 12/01/11 113,414
100 Ltd Tax Supported Common Bond Fund Ser 1991-1 (AMT) ........... 8.00 12/01/16 110,822
400 Minnesota Public Facilities Authority, Water Pollution Control
1998 Ser A .................................................... 4.75 03/01/19 392,824
- ----------- ------------
1,200 1,248,822
- ----------- ------------
Mortgage Revenue -Multi-Family (6.3%)
300 Burnsville, Summit Park Apts -FHA Insured Refg Ser 1993 ........ 6.00 07/01/33 312,375
200 Minnesota Housing Finance Agency, Ser 1992 A ................... 6.95 08/01/17 214,398
- ----------- ------------
500 526,773
- ----------- ------------
Mortgage Revenue -Single Family (9.6%)
145 Minneapolis-Saint Paul Housing Finance Board, GNMA-Backed Phase
IX Ser 1991 (AMT) .............................................. 7.25 08/01/21 152,936
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
84
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- MINNESOTA
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998, continued
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Minnesota Housing Finance Agency,
$420 Ser 1992 C-1 (AMT) ............................................ 6.75% 07/01/23 $446,157
200 Ser 1992 H (AMT) .............................................. 6.50 01/01/26 211,780
- ----------- ------------
765 810,873
- ----------- ------------
Nursing & Health Related Facilities Revenue (6.4%)
500 Minneapolis & Saint Paul Housing & Redevelopment Authority,
Group Health Plan Inc Ser 1992 ................................ 6.75 12/01/13 542,440
------------
Transportation Facilities Revenue (4.7%)
400 Minneapolis -Saint Paul Metropolitan Airports Commission, Ser
1998 A (AMBAC) ................................................ 5.00 01/01/30 396,244
------------
Refunded (5.1%)
400 Saint Paul Housing & Redevelopment Authority, Civic Center Ser
1993 (ETM) .................................................... 5.45 11/01/13 427,044
------------
7,255 TOTAL MINNESOTA TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS
- -----------
(Identified Cost $7,187,518) ....................................................... 7,610,341
------------
SHORT-TERM MINNESOTA TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS (7.1%)
400 Beltrami County, Northwood Panelboard Co Ser 1991 (Demand
12/01/98) ..................................................... 3.25* 12/01/21 400,000
200 Minneapolis & Saint Paul Housing & Redevelopment Authority,
Children's Health Care Ser 1995 B (Demand 12/01/98) ........... 3.30* 08/15/25 200,000
- ----------- ------------
600 TOTAL SHORT-TERM MINNESOTA TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS
- -----------
(Identified Cost $600,000) ......................................................... 600,000
------------
$7,855 TOTAL INVESTMENTS (Identified Cost $7,787,518)(a) ....................... 97.5% 8,210,341
===========
CASH AND OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES .......................... 2.5 206,327
---------- ------------
NET ASSETS .............................................................. 100.0% $8,416,668
========== ============
</TABLE>
- ------------
AMT Alternative Minimum Tax.
ETM Escrowed to maturity.
* Current coupon of variable rate demand obligation.
(a) The aggregate cost for federal income tax purposes approximates
identified cost. The aggregate gross unrealized appreciation is
$426,559 and the aggregate gross depreciation is $3,736,
resulting in net unrealized appreciation of $422,823.
Bond Insurance:
AMBAC AMBAC Indemnity Corporation.
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
85
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- NEW JERSEY
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NEW JERSEY TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS (92.4%)
General Obligation (2.3%)
$1,000 New Jersey, Ser 1998 ........................................... 4.50 % 03/01/18 $956,450
- ----------- -------------
Educational Facilities Revenue (16.5%)
New Jersey Economic Development Authority,
1,750 Educational Testing Service Ser 1998 A (MBIA) .................. 4.75 05/15/25 1,706,197
1,000 The Lawrenceville School Ser A 1996 ............................ 5.75 07/01/16 1,085,450
500 The Seeing Eye Inc 1991 ....................................... 7.30 04/01/11 529,185
1,000 New Jersey Educational Facilities Authority, Drew University
1998 Ser C (MBIA) .............................................. 5.00 07/01/17 1,012,260
500 Rutgers, The State University Refg Ser R ....................... 6.50 05/01/13 548,290
2,000 University of Medicine & Dentistry, 1997 Ser A (MBIA) .......... 5.00 09/01/17 2,029,120
- ----------- -------------
6,750 6,910,502
- ----------- -------------
Electric Revenue (4.8%)
2,000 Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority, Power Ser O ............... 5.00 07/01/12 2,003,120
- ----------- -------------
Hospital Revenue (8.9%)
New Jersey Health Care Facilities Financing Authority,
1,000 AHS Hospital Corp Ser 1997 A (AMBAC) .......................... 6.00 07/01/13 1,138,360
1,000 Atlantic City Medical Center Ser C ............................ 6.80 07/01/11 1,103,960
465 Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital Ser B (MBIA) .......... 6.625 07/01/16 503,079
1,000 Saint Barnabas Medical Center/West Hudson Hospital Obligated
Group Refg Ser 1998 A (MBIA) ................................. 4.75 07/01/28 972,090
- ----------- -------------
3,465 3,717,489
- ----------- -------------
Industrial Development/Pollution Control Revenue (6.4%)
500 Middlesex County Pollution Control Financing Authority, Amerada
Hess Corp Refg Ser 1992 ....................................... 6.875 12/01/22 544,155
1,000 New Jersey Economic Development Authority, Elizabethtown Water
Co
1995 Ser (AMT)(MBIA) .......................................... 5.60 12/01/25 1,046,020
1,000 Salem County Pollution Control Financing Authority, E I du Pont
de Nemours & Co 1992 Ser A (AMT) ............................... 6.125 07/15/22 1,076,340
- ----------- -------------
2,500 2,666,515
- ----------- -------------
Mortgage Revenue -Multi-Family (9.0%)
New Jersey Housing & Mortgage Finance Agency,
2,000 1995 Ser A (AMBAC) ............................................. 6.00 11/01/14 2,146,860
1,000 Presidential Plaza at Newport -FHA Insured Mtges Refg 1991 Ser
1 .............................................................. 7.00 05/01/30 1,093,270
500 Rental 1991 Ser A (AMT) ........................................ 7.25 11/01/22 529,945
- ----------- -------------
3,500 3,770,075
- ----------- -------------
Nursing & Health Related Facilities Revenue (2.3%)
910 New Jersey Health Care Facilities Financing Authority, Spectrum
For Living -FHA Insured Mortgage Refg Ser B ................... 6.50 02/01/22 983,419
-------------
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
86
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- NEW JERSEY
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998, continued
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Public Facilities Revenue (6.1%)
$1,500 New Jersey Sports & Exposition Authority, State Contract 1993
Ser A .......................................................... 5.50% 09/01/23 $1,554,060
1,000 Puerto Rico Infrastructure Financing Authority, Special Tax Ser
1997 A (AMBAC) ................................................ 5.00 07/01/28 1,001,640
- ----------- -------------
2,500 2,555,700
- ----------- -------------
Resource Recovery Revenue (3.4%)
500 Union County Utilities Authority, Ogden Martin Systems of Union
Inc
Ser 1998 A (AMT)(AMBAC) ....................................... 5.00 06/01/23 489,625
900 Warren County Pollution Control Financing Authority, Warren
Energy
Resource Co Ltd Partnership Ser 1984 (MBIA) ................... 6.60 12/01/07 917,946
- ----------- -------------
1,400 1,407,571
- ----------- -------------
Transportation Facilities Revenue (13.9%)
1,500 Delaware River Port Authority, Ser 1995 (FGIC) .................. 5.50 01/01/26 1,569,765
1,500 New Jersey Highway Authority, Sr Parkway Refg 1992 Ser ......... 6.25 01/01/14 1,617,630
1,000 New Jersey Turnpike Authority, Ser 1991 C ...................... 5.75 01/01/11 1,021,780
1,500 Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, Cons 99th Ser (AMT)
(FGIC) ......................................................... 5.75 05/01/15 1,599,195
- ----------- -------------
5,500 5,808,370
- ----------- -------------
Water & Sewer Revenue (17.6%)
1,000 Atlantic City Municipal Utilities Authority, Refg Ser 1993 ..... 5.75 05/01/17 1,050,480
1,000 Bayonne Municipal Utilities Authority, Water Ser 1997 (MBIA) .... 5.00 01/01/28 1,007,580
1,000 Bergen County Utilities Authority, Water 1998 Ser A (FGIC) ..... 4.75 12/15/15 997,660
1,000 Camden County Municipal Utilities Authority, Sewer Refg Ser 1997
(FGIC) ........................................................ 5.25 07/15/17 1,036,210
1,000 Northwest Bergen County Utilities Authority, Refg 1992 Ser
(MBIA) ........................................................ 6.00 07/15/13 1,095,830
2,000 Passaic Valley Sewerage Commissioners, Ser 1992 D (AMBAC) ...... 5.75 12/01/13 2,158,540
- ----------- -------------
7,000 7,346,300
- ----------- -------------
Refunded (1.2%)
460 New Jersey Health Care Facilities Financing Authority, Pascack
Valley Hospital Assn Ser 1991 ................................. 6.90 07/01/01+ 489,491
-------------
36,985 TOTAL NEW JERSEY TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS
- -----------
(Identified Cost $35,972,560) ........................................................ 38,615,002
-------------
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
87
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- NEW JERSEY
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998, continued
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SHORT-TERM NEW JERSEY TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS (5.7%)
$2,000 New Jersey Economic Development Authority, Foreign Trade Zone
Ser 1998 (Demand 12/01/98) .................................... 3.25*% 12/01/07 $2,000,000
400 Union County Industrial Pollution Control Financing Authority,
Exxon Corp Ser 1994 (Demand 12/01/98) ......................... 2.80* 07/01/33 400,000
- ----------- -------------
2,400 TOTAL SHORT-TERM NEW JERSEY TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS
- -----------
(Identified Cost $2,400,000) ......................................................... 2,400,000
-------------
$39,385 TOTAL INVESTMENTS (Identified Cost $38,372,560) (a) ...................... 98.1% 41,015,002
===========
CASH AND OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES .......................... 1.9 788,010
----------- -------------
NET ASSETS .............................................................. 100.0% $41,803,012
=========== =============
</TABLE>
- ------------
AMT Alternative Minimum Tax.
+ Prerefunded to call date shown.
* Current coupon of variable rate demand obligation.
(a) The aggregate cost for federal income tax purposes approximates
identified cost. The aggregate gross unrealized appreciation is
$2,642,442.
Bond Insurance:
AMBAC AMBAC Indemnity Corporation.
FGIC Financial Guaranty Insurance Company.
MBIA Municipal Bond Investors Assurance Corporation.
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
88
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- NEW YORK
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS (92.2%)
General Obligation (13.5%)
$500 New York City, 1995 Ser D (MBIA) ............................... 6.20 % 02/01/07 $565,635
500 New York State, Refg Ser 1995 B ................................ 5.70 08/15/13 536,190
Puerto Rico,
300 Public Improvement Refg Ser 1992 A ............................. 6.00 07/01/14 321,669
200 Public Improvement Ser 1998 (MBIA) ............................. 4.875 07/01/23 198,434
- ----------- -------------
1,500 1,621,928
- ----------- -------------
Educational Facilities Revenue (19.6%)
500 Hempstead Industrial Development Agency, Hofstra University Ser
1996 (MBIA) .................................................... 5.80 07/01/15 547,280
New York State Dormitory Authority,
300 Cooper Union Ser 1996 (AMBAC) .................................. 5.375 07/01/16 312,414
400 Manhattan College Ser 1992 (AGRC) .............................. 6.50 07/01/19 436,504
500 State University Ser 1993 A** .................................. 5.25 05/15/15 527,140
500 University of Rochester Ser 1993 A ............................. 5.625 07/01/12 530,135
- ----------- -------------
2,200 2,353,473
- ----------- -------------
Electric Revenue (6.1%)
300 Long Island Power Authority, Electric Ser 1998 A (FSA) .......... 5.125 12/01/22 300,906
400 Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority, Power Ser X ............... 6.00 07/01/15 435,272
- ----------- -------------
700 736,178
- ----------- -------------
Hospital Revenue (1.8%)
200 New York State Medical Care Facilities Finance Agency, Insured
Hospital & Nursing Home -FHA Insured Mtge 1992 Ser A ........... 6.70 08/15/23 217,174
-------------
Industrial Development/Pollution Control Revenue (14.1%)
500 New York City Industrial Development Agency, Japan Airlines Co
1991 (AMT)(FSA) ................................................ 6.00 11/01/15 537,325
1,000 New York State Energy Research & Development Authority, Brooklyn
Union Gas Co 1991 Ser A & B (AMT) ............................. 6.952 07/01/26 1,161,710
- ----------- -------------
1,500 1,699,035
- ----------- -------------
Mortgage Revenue -Single Family (4.5%)
500 New York State Mortgage Agency, Home Owners Ser 27 .............. 6.90 04/01/15 538,575
- ----------- -------------
Nursing & Health Related Facilities Revenue (3.9%)
500 New York City Industrial Development Agency, Lighthouse
International
Project Ser 1998 (MBIA) ....................................... 4.50 07/01/23 462,830
-------------
Public Facilities Revenue (8.8%)
500 New York City Cultural Resources Trust, The New York Botanical
Garden Ser 1996 (MBIA) ........................................ 5.75 07/01/16 539,660
500 New York State Urban Development Corporation, Correctional 1998
Ser B (AMBAC)(WI) .............................................. 5.25 01/01/16 516,260
- ----------- -------------
1,000 1,055,920
- ----------- -------------
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
89
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- NEW YORK
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998, continued
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Resource Recovery Revenue (4.5%)
$500 Oneida-Herkimer Solid Waste Management Authority, Ser 1992 ...... 6.65% 04/01/05 $540,035
- ----------- -------------
Transportation Facilities Revenue (11.4%)
550 Buffalo & Fort Erie Public Bridge Authority, Toll Bridge Ser
1995 (MBIA) ................................................... 5.75 01/01/25 590,178
300 New York State Thruway Authority, Local Highway & Bridge Ser
1998 A (MBIA) ................................................. 5.00 04/01/18 300,753
500 Puerto Rico Highway & Transportation Authority, Ser 1998 A ...... 4.75 07/01/38 480,180
- ----------- -------------
1,350 1,371,111
- ----------- -------------
Water & Sewer Revenue (4.0%)
500 New York City Municipal Water Finance Authority, 1999 Ser A
(FGIC) ......................................................... 4.75 06/15/31 477,685
- ----------- -------------
10,450 TOTAL NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS
(Identified Cost $10,222,561) ....................................................... 11,073,944
-------------
SHORT-TERM NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS (10.0%)
600 Port Authority of New York & New Jersey, Ser 2 (Demand
12/01/98) ...................................................... 3.25* 05/01/19 600,000
600 Syracuse Industrial Development Agency, Syracuse University
Eggers Hall Ser 1993 (Demand 12/01/98) ......................... 3.30* 03/01/23 600,000
- ----------- -------------
1,200 TOTAL SHORT-TERM NEW YORK TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS
(Identified Cost $1,200,000) ........................................................ 1,200,000
-------------
$11,650 TOTAL INVESTMENTS (Identified Cost $11,422,561)(a) ...................... 102.2 % 12,273,944
===========
LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF CASH AND OTHER ASSETS .......................... (2.2) (260,616)
---------- -------------
NET ASSETS .............................................................. 100.0 % $12,013,328
========== =============
</TABLE>
- ------------
AMT Alternative Minimum Tax.
WI Security purchased on a "when-issued" basis.
* Current coupon of variable rate demand obligation.
** This security is segregated in connection with the purchase of a
"when-issued" security.
(a) The aggregate cost for federal income tax purposes approximates
identified cost. The aggregate gross unrealized appreciation is
$859,456 and the aggregate gross unrealized depreciation is
$8,073, resulting in net unrealized appreciation of $851,383.
Bond Insurance:
AGRC Asset Guaranty Reinsurance Company.
AMBAC AMBAC Indemnity Corporation.
FGIC Financial Guaranty Insurance Company.
FSA Financial Security Assurance Inc.
MBIA Municipal Bond Investors Assurance Corporation.
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
90
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- OHIO SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
OHIO TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS (94.1%)
General Obligation (23.8%)
$300 Bedford School District, Ser 1993 .............................. 6.25 % 12/01/13 $329,073
800 Delaware City School District, Constr & Impr (FGIC) ............ 5.75 12/01/20 856,992
800 North Olmsted, Various Purpose Impr Ltd Tax Ser 1996 (AMBAC) ... 6.20 12/01/11 922,864
800 Ohio Infrastructure Improvement Ser 1998 B ...................... 4.75 02/01/18 787,096
500 Ottawa County, Various Purpose Dtd 07/01/98 (MBIA) ............. 5.00 09/01/31 496,770
500 Rocky River City School District, Impr Ser 1998 ................ 5.375 12/01/17 536,225
500 Puerto Rico, Public Impr Ser 1998 (MBIA) ....................... 4.875 07/01/23 496,085
- ----------- -------------
4,200 4,425,105
- ----------- -------------
Educational Facilties Revenue (8.7%)
500 Ohio Higher Educational Facility Commission, Case Western
Reserve
University Ser 1992 ............................................ 6.00 10/01/22 536,385
500 University of Cincinnati, General Receipts Ser G ............... 7.00 06/01/11 546,075
500 University of Toledo, Ser 1992 A (FGIC) ........................ 5.90 06/01/20 542,380
- ----------- -------------
1,500 1,624,840
- ----------- -------------
Electric Revenue (5.5%)
500 Hamilton!, Refg 1992 Ser A (FGIC) .............................. 6.00 10/15/12 544,120
500 Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority, Ser DD (FSA) ............. 4.50 07/01/19 474,230
- ----------- -------------
1,000 1,018,350
- ----------- -------------
Hospital Revenue (9.5%)
700 Akron Bath & Copley Joint Township Hospital District, Summa
Health
Ser 1992 A .................................................... 6.25 11/15/07 757,358
Hamilton County,
475 Bethesda Hospital Inc Ser 1986 A .............................. 7.00 01/01/09 476,387
500 Franciscan Sisters of the Poor/Providence Hospital Ser 1992 ... 6.875 07/01/15 538,350
- ----------- -------------
1,675 1,772,095
- ----------- -------------
Industrial Development/Pollution Control Revenue (5.2%)
400 Ashtabula County, Ashland Oil Inc Refg 1992 Ser A .............. 6.90 05/01/10 429,604
500 Ohio Water Development Authority, Dayton Power & Light Co
Collateralized Refg 1992 Ser A ................................ 6.40 08/15/27 538,055
- ----------- -------------
900 967,659
- ----------- -------------
Mortgage Revenue -Single Family (9.4%)
Ohio Housing Finance Agency,
650 GNMA-Backed 1991 Ser A-1 & 2 (AMT) ............................ 6.903 03/24/31 688,681
990 Residential 1996 Ser B-2 (AMT) ................................ 6.10 09/01/28 1,056,776
- ----------- -------------
1,640 1,745,457
- ----------- -------------
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
91
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- OHIO SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998, continued
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Transportation Facilities Revenue (6.6%)
$800 Ohio Turnpike Commission, Ser 1998 B (FGIC) .................... 4.50 % 02/15/24 $746,240
500 Puerto Rico Highway & Transportation Authority, Ser 1998 A ..... 4.75 07/01/38 480,180
- ----------- -------------
1,300 1,226,420
- ----------- -------------
Water & Sewer Revenue (16.8%)
500 Mahoning Valley Sanitary District, Refg Ser 1998 (FSA) ......... 5.125 12/15/16 513,800
800 Montgomery County, Water Ser 1992 (FGIC) ........................ 6.25 11/15/17 880,504
800 Northeast Ohio Regional Sewer District, Wastewater Impr Refg
Ser 1995 (AMBAC) .............................................. 5.60 11/15/13 857,728
800 Ohio Water Development Authority, Water Pollution Ser 1995
(MBIA) ........................................................ 5.60 06/01/10 862,816
- ----------- -------------
2,900 3,114,848
- ----------- -------------
Other Revenue (2.7%)
500 Cuyahoga County, The Medical Center Company Ser 1998 (AMBAC) ... 5.125 02/15/28 498,835
- ----------- -------------
Refunded (5.9%)
1,000 Clermont County, Mercy Health Ser 1991 (AMBAC) ................. 6.733 09/25/01 + 1,095,340
- ----------- -------------
16,615 TOTAL OHIO TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS
(Identified Cost $16,398,870) ........................................................ 17,488,949
- ----------- -------------
SHORT-TERM OHIO TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL OBLIGATION (2.2%)
400 Ohio Water Development Authority, Sohio British Petroleum Ser
1995 (Demand 12/01/98) (Identified Cost $400,000) ............. 3.30 * 05/01/22 400,000
-------------
$17,015 TOTAL INVESTMENTS (Identified Cost $16,798,870) (a) ..................... 96.3% 17,888,949
===========
CASH AND OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES .......................... 3.7 691,357
----------- -------------
NET ASSETS .............................................................. 100.0% $18,580,306
=========== =============
</TABLE>
- ------------
AMT Alternative Minimum Tax.
+ Prerefunded to call date shown.
* Current coupon of variable rate demand obligation.
(a) The aggregate cost for federal income tax purposes approximates
identified cost. The aggregate gross unrealized appreciation is
$1,090,114 and the aggregate gross unrealized depreciation is
$35, resulting in net unrealized appreciation of $1,090,079.
Bond Insurance:
AMBAC AMBAC Indemnity Corporation.
FGIC Financial Guaranty Insurance Company.
FSA Financial Security Assurance Inc.
MBIA Municipal Bond Investors Assurance Corporation.
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
92
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- PENNSYLVANIA
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS November 30, 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
PENNSYLVANIA TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS (93.3%)
General Obligation (6.1%)
$2,000 Berks County, Second Ser 1992 (Fgic) ............................ 5.75 % 11/15/12 $2,130,680
500 Cambria County, Ser 1998 (Fgic) ................................ 5.50 08/15/16 529,860
600 Puerto Rico, Public Improvement Refg Ser 1992 a ................ 6.00 07/01/14 643,338
- ----------- ------------
3,100 3,303,878
- ----------- ------------
Educational Facilities Revenue (12.4% )
2,000 Delaware County Authority, Villanova University Ser 1995
(AMBAC) ........................................................ 5.80 08/01/25 2,161,320
Pennsylvania Higher Educational Facilities Authority,
1,000 Allegheny College Refg Ser 1998 a (Mbia) ....................... 5.00 11/01/22 991,690
1,000 University of Pennsylvania Ser 1998 ........................... 4.625 07/15/30 931,680
1,000 Pennsylvania State University, Second Refg Ser 1992 ............ 5.50 08/15/16 1,043,640
790 Swarthmore Borough Authority, Swarthmore College Ser 1992 ...... 6.00 09/15/20 858,619
655 University Pittsburgh, Cap 1992 Ser A (MBIA) ................... 6.125 06/01/21 711,474
- ----------- ------------
6,445 6,698,423
- ----------- ------------
Electric Revenue (3.6% )
Puerto Rico Electric Power Authority,
1,000 Power Ser Dd (Fsa) ............................................. 4.50 07/01/19 948,460
1,000 Ser GG (FSA) .................................................. 4.75 07/01/21 978,270
- ----------- ------------
2,000 1,926,730
- ----------- ------------
Hospital Revenue (19.0%)
Allegheny County Hospital Development Authority,
1,000 Catholic Health East Health Ser 1998 A (AMBAC) ................ 4.875 11/15/26 954,480
1,000 Presbyterian University Health Inc Ser 1992 B (MBIA) .......... 6.00 11/01/12 1,088,980
2,000 Delaware County Authority, Catholic Health East Health Ser 1998
A
(AMBAC) ....................................................... 4.875 11/15/26 1,917,500
2,000 Lehigh County General Purpose Authority, Lehigh Valley Health
Network
1998 Ser A (MBIA) .............................................. 5.00 07/01/28 1,963,540
Philadelphia Hospitals & Higher Education Facilities Authority,
1,750 Chestnut Hill Hospital Ser of 1992 ............................. 6.375 11/15/11 1,882,510
1,000 Children's Hospital of Philadelphia Ser A OF 1993 .............. 5.375 02/15/14 1,018,120
1,250 Sayre Health Care Facilities Authority, Ser 1985 (AMBAC) ........ 7.15 12/01/10 1,374,738
- ----------- ------------
10,000 10,199,868
- ----------- ------------
Industrial Development/pollution Control Revenue (2.0%)
1,000 Montgomery County Industrial Development Authority, Philadelphia
Electric Co Refg 1991 Ser B (MBIA) ............................ 6.70 12/01/21 1,087,610
------------
Mortgage Revenue -Multi-family (2.0%)
Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency,
50 Moderate Rehab Sec 8 Assisted Issue B ......................... 9.00 08/01/01 50,530
1,000 Ser 1992-35 D (AMT) ........................................... 6.20 04/01/25 1,051,490
- ----------- ------------
1,050 1,102,020
- ----------- ------------
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
93
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- PENNSYLVANIA
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS NOVEMBER 30, 1998, Continued
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mortgage Revenue -Single Family (5.2%)
$2,000 Pennsylvania Housing Finance Agency, Ser 1991-31 C (AMT) ........ 7.00 % 10/01/23 $2,133,400
635 Puerto Rico Housing Finance Corporation, Portfolio One
GNMA-Backed
Ser C .......................................................... 6.85 10/15/23 678,371
- ----------- ------------
2,635 2,811,771
- ----------- ------------
Public Facilities Revenue (2.3%)
1,300 Philadelphia Authority for Industrial Development, the Franklin
Institute
Ser 1998 ....................................................... 5.20 06/15/26 1,257,490
------------
Resource Recovery Revenue (3.9%)
1,000 Lancaster County Solid Waste Management Authority, 1998 Ser B
(Ambac) ........................................................ 5.375 12/15/15 1,045,580
1,000 Montgomery County Industrial Development Authority, Ser 1989 ... 7.50 01/01/12 1,055,570
- ----------- ------------
2,000 2,101,150
- ----------- ------------
Student Loan Revenue (4.0%)
Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency,
1,000 1988 Ser D (AMT)(AMBAC) ....................................... 6.05 01/01/19 1,074,670
1,000 1991 Ser B (AMT)(AMBAC) ....................................... 6.854 09/01/26 1,079,910
- ----------- ------------
2,000 2,154,580
- ----------- ------------
Transportation Facilities Revenue (22.1%)
1,000 Guam, Highway 1992 Ser A (FSA) ................................. 6.30 05/01/12 1,090,250
Allegheny County, Greater Pittsburgh Int'l Airport
1,000 Ser 1997 B (MBIA) ............................................. 5.00 01/01/19 998,700
500 Ser 1992 (AMT)(FSA) ........................................... 6.625 01/01/22 543,525
2,000 Delaware River Port Authority, Ser 1995 (Fgic) ................. 5.50 01/01/26 2,093,020
Pennsylvania Turnpike Commission,
2,000 Ser O 1992 (FGIC) ............................................. 6.00 12/01/12 2,172,980
2,000 Ser A 1998 (AMBAC) ............................................ 4.75 12/01/27 1,923,880
1,000 Philadelphia Turnpike Commission, Ser A 1998 .................... 5.00 07/01/23 973,730
1,000 Pittsburgh Public Parking Authority, Ser 1992 A (Fgic) ......... 5.875 12/01/12 1,085,790
1,000 Puerto Rico Highway & Transportation Authority, SER 1998 A ...... 4.75 07/01/38 960,360
- ----------- ------------
11,500 11,842,235
- ----------- ------------
Water & Sewer Revenue (7.0%)
2,000 Philadelphia, Water & Wastewater Ser 1995 (MBIA) ................ 6.25 08/01/11 2,322,400
2,000 Pittsburgh, Water & Sewer Authority, 1998 Ser B (FGIC) ......... 0.00 09/01/28 439,280
1,000 West Mifflin Sanitary Sewer Municipal Authority, Ser 1998
(MBIA) ......................................................... 5.00 08/01/23 991,530
- ----------- ------------
5,000 3,753,210
- ----------- ------------
Other Revenue (3.1%)
1,500 Pennsylvania Finance Authority, Cap Impr Refg Ser 1993 ......... 6.60 11/01/09 1,674,360
- ----------- ------------
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
94
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST -- PENNSYLVANIA
SERIES
PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS NOVEMBER 30, 1998, Continued
PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT IN COUPON MATURITY
THOUSANDS RATE DATE VALUE
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Refunded (0.6%)
$290 Lehigh County Industrial Development Authority, Strawbridge &
Clothier
Refg Ser OF 1991 (ETM) ........................................ 7.20% 12/15/01 $306,228
------------
49,820 TOTAL PENNSYLVANIA TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL BONDS
(Identified Cost $47,376,043) ...................................................... 50,219,553
------------
SHORT-TERM PENNSYLVANIA TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS (4.5%)
800 Philadelphia Hospital & Higher Education Facilities Authority, Children's
Hospital of Philadelphia 1992 (Demand 12/01/98) ............... 3.25* 03/01/27 800,000
400 Philadelphia Industrial Development Authority, the Fox Chase Cancer
Center Ser 1997 (Demand 12/01/98) ............................. 3.30* 07/01/25 400,000
1,200 York County Industrial Development Authority, Philadelphia Electric Co
Ser 1993 a (Demand 12/01/98) ................................... 3.30* 08/01/16 1,200,000
------------
2,400 TOTAL SHORT-TERM PENNSYLVANIA TAX-EXEMPT MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS
- -----------
(Identified Cost $2,400,000) ........................................................ 2,400,000
------------
$52,220 TOTAL INVESTMENTS (Identified Cost $49,776,043) (A) ...................... 97.8% 52,619,553
===========
CASH AND OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES .......................... 2.2 1,188,694
---------- ------------
NET ASSETS .............................................................. 100.0% $53,808,247
========== ============
</TABLE>
- ------------
AMT Alternative Minimum Tax.
ETM Escrowed to maturity.
* Current coupon of variable rate demand obligation.
(a) The aggregate cost for federal income tax purposes approximates
identified cost. The aggregate gross unrealized appreciation is
$2,878,992 and the aggregate gross unrealized depreciation is
$35,482, resulting in net unrealized appreciation of $2,843,510.
Bond Insurance:
AMBAC AMBAC Indemnity Corporation.
FGIC Financial Guaranty Insurance Company.
FSA Financial Security Assurance Inc.
MBIA Municipal Bond Investors Assurance Corporation.
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
95
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
November 30, 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ARIZONA CALIFORNIA FLORIDA MASSACHUSETTS
- ------------------------------------------------- ------------- -------------- ------------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
ASSETS:
Investments in securities, at value* ............. $41,337,619 $103,698,454 $59,218,827 $15,041,086
Cash ............................................. 448,994 133,549 1,347,830 204,075
Receivable for:
Investments sold ............................... -- -- -- 230,410
Interest ....................................... 797,655 1,482,288 780,307 267,306
Shares of beneficial interest sold ............. 60,127 922 50,656 478
Prepaid expenses ................................. 7,626 5,981 5,857 2,736
------------- -------------- ------------- ---------------
TOTAL ASSETS ................................... 42,652,021 105,321,194 61,403,477 15,746,091
------------- -------------- ------------- ---------------
LIABILITIES:
Payable for:
Investments purchased........................... 928,215 -- -- 473,053
Shares of beneficial interest repurchased ..... -- 400 50,011 --
Dividends to shareholders ...................... 26,401 68,477 37,654 9,443
Investment management fee ...................... 12,296 31,118 18,238 4,470
Plan of distribution fee ....................... 5,270 13,337 7,817 1,916
Accrued expenses ................................. 24,629 32,421 27,724 21,119
------------- -------------- ------------- ---------------
TOTAL LIABILITIES .............................. 996,811 145,753 141,444 510,001
------------- -------------- ------------- ---------------
NET ASSETS ..................................... $41,655,210 $105,175,441 $61,262,033 $15,236,090
============= ============== ============= ===============
COMPOSITION OF NET ASSETS:
Paid-in-capital................................... $38,666,179 $ 96,456,281 $55,352,810 $14,058,245
Accumulated undistributed net realized gain ..... 609,149 1,789,759 1,997,024 171,067
Net unrealized appreciation ...................... 2,379,882 6,929,401 3,912,199 1,006,778
------------- -------------- ------------- ---------------
NET ASSETS ..................................... $41,655,210 $105,175,441 $61,262,033 $15,236,090
============= ============== ============= ===============
*IDENTIFIED COST ............................... $38,957,737 $ 96,769,053 $55,306,628 $14,034,308
============= ============== ============= ===============
SHARES OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST OUTSTANDING ..... 3,852,209 9,376,038 5,447,042 1,344,198
============= ============== ============= ===============
NET ASSET VALUE PER SHARE,
(unlimited authorized shares of $.01 par value) $10.81 $11.22 $11.25 $11.33
============= ============== ============= ===============
MAXIMUM OFFERING PRICE PER SHARE,
(net asset value plus 4.17% of net asset
value)** ........................................ $11.26 $11.69 $11.72 $11.80
============= ============== ============= ===============
</TABLE>
- ------------
** On sales of $25,000 or more, the offering price is reduced.
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
96
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MICHIGAN MINNESOTA NEW JERSEY NEW YORK OHIO PENNSYLVANIA
- ------------- ------------ ------------- ------------- ------------- --------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$17,332,154 $8,210,341 $41,015,002 $12,273,944 $17,888,949 $52,619,553
265,662 65,531 161,933 110,641 448,473 312,576
-- -- -- -- -- 85,000
182,481 119,816 685,498 169,434 271,175 790,348
14,928 48,387 995 4,863 9,611 106,893
3,391 1,402 8,245 4,553 3,134 5,276
- ------------- ------------ ------------- ------------- ------------- --------------
17,798,616 8,445,477 41,871,673 12,563,435 18,621,342 53,919,646
- ------------- ------------ ------------- ------------- ------------- --------------
-- -- -- 512,560 -- --
-- 400 -- 5,000 389 23,874
10,830 5,125 26,419 7,324 11,770 34,702
5,267 2,485 12,380 3,571 5,484 15,940
2,257 1,065 5,305 1,530 2,350 6,832
21,052 19,734 24,557 20,122 21,043 30,051
- ------------- ------------ ------------- ------------- ------------- --------------
39,406 28,809 68,661 550,107 41,036 111,399
- ------------- ------------ ------------- ------------- ------------- --------------
$17,759,210 $8,416,668 $41,803,012 $12,013,328 $18,580,306 $53,808,247
============= ============ ============= ============= ============= ==============
$16,111,196 $7,922,710 $38,551,069 $10,767,203 $17,272,016 $50,386,015
694,269 71,135 609,501 394,742 218,211 578,722
953,745 422,823 2,642,442 851,383 1,090,079 2,843,510
- ------------- ------------ ------------- ------------- ------------- --------------
$17,759,210 $8,416,668 $41,803,012 $12,013,328 $18,580,306 $53,808,247
============= ============ ============= ============= ============= ==============
$16,378,409 $7,787,518 $38,372,560 $11,422,561 $16,798,870 $49,776,043
============= ============ ============= ============= ============= ==============
1,587,214 778,036 3,750,154 1,053,134 1,666,037 4,825,122
============= ============ ============= ============= ============= ==============
$11.19 $10.82 $11.15 $11.41 $11.15 $11.15
============= ============ ============= ============= ============= ==============
$11.66 $11.27 $11.61 $11.89 $11.61 $11.61
============= ============ ============= ============= ============= ==============
</TABLE>
97
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, continued
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
For the year ended November 30, 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ARIZONA CALIFORNIA FLORIDA MASSACHUSETTS
- --------------------------------------- ------------ ------------ ------------ ---------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
NET INVESTMENT INCOME:
INTEREST INCOME ........................ $2,224,143 $5,709,751 $3,371,812 $ 790,584
------------ ------------ ------------ ---------------
EXPENSES
Investment management fee............... 143,707 366,413 222,722 51,570
Plan of distribution fee................ 59,039 152,886 90,485 21,596
Transfer agent fees and expenses ...... 14,021 28,846 19,471 5,648
Professional fees ...................... 23,570 27,311 25,612 23,339
Shareholder reports and notices ....... 8,542 17,735 12,284 3,660
Trustees' fees and expenses............. 689 5,391 3,169 744
Custodian fees.......................... 2,436 5,349 3,680 1,482
Registration fees ...................... 8,018 3,633 5,978 7,972
Other................................... 7,571 8,679 8,603 5,619
------------ ------------ ------------ ---------------
TOTAL EXPENSES ....................... 267,593 616,243 392,004 121,630
Less: expense offset ................... (2,432) (5,341) (3,680) (1,482)
------------ ------------ ------------ ---------------
NET EXPENSES ......................... 265,161 610,902 388,324 120,148
------------ ------------ ------------ ---------------
NET INVESTMENT INCOME ................ 1,958,982 5,098,849 2,983,488 670,436
------------ ------------ ------------ ---------------
NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN
(LOSS):
Net realized gain ...................... 725,798 2,241,204 2,077,788 171,067
Net change in unrealized appreciation . (57,712) 248,404 (437,571) 170,653
------------ ------------ ------------ ---------------
NET GAIN ............................. 668,086 2,489,608 1,640,217 341,720
------------ ------------ ------------ ---------------
NET INCREASE ........................... $2,627,068 $7,588,457 $4,623,705 $1,012,156
============ ============ ============ ===============
</TABLE>
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
98
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MICHIGAN MINNESOTA NEW JERSEY NEW YORK OHIO PENNSYLVANIA
- ------------ ----------- ------------ ---------- ------------ --------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$1,022,593 $469,269 $2,242,378 $669,704 $ 999,450 $2,841,219
- ------------ ----------- ------------ ---------- ------------ --------------
66,318 30,046 144,628 43,428 64,310 184,737
27,604 12,575 58,389 16,908 25,943 78,423
9,791 4,060 19,617 4,855 8,847 17,296
27,247 26,975 24,785 23,639 23,595 24,004
5,965 2,308 11,451 2,873 5,306 13,292
912 284 2,038 619 875 2,763
1,811 1,005 2,611 1,401 1,711 3,239
3,430 3,251 6,058 6,272 2,705 4,689
4,637 4,288 6,350 4,157 4,802 9,727
- ------------ ----------- ------------ ---------- ------------ --------------
147,715 84,792 275,927 104,152 138,094 338,170
(1,811) (1,005) (2,611) (1,401) (1,711) (3,234)
- ------------ ----------- ------------ ---------- ------------ --------------
145,904 83,787 273,316 102,751 136,383 334,936
- ------------ ----------- ------------ ---------- ------------ --------------
876,689 385,482 1,969,062 566,953 863,067 2,506,283
- ------------ ----------- ------------ ---------- ------------ --------------
708,264 152,552 614,679 408,044 388,407 578,722
(248,253) (55,068) 394,703 (77,877) (29,432) 203,628
- ------------ ----------- ------------ ---------- ------------ --------------
460,011 97,484 1,009,382 330,167 358,975 782,350
- ------------ ----------- ------------ ---------- ------------ --------------
$1,336,700 $482,966 $2,978,444 $897,120 $1,222,042 $3,288,633
============ =========== ============ ========== ============ ==============
</TABLE>
99
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, continued
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ARIZONA CALIFORNIA
------------------------------------ ------------------------------------
FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR
ENDED ENDED ENDED ENDED
NOVEMBER 30, 1998 NOVEMBER 30, 1997 NOVEMBER 30, 1998 NOVEMBER 30, 1997
- --------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS:
OPERATIONS:
Net investment income ........................ $ 1,958,982 $ 2,189,141 $ 5,098,849 $ 5,412,749
Net realized gain (loss) ..................... 725,798 (109,978) 2,241,204 61,340
Net change in unrealized appreciation ....... (57,712) 271,359 248,404 1,234,202
----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
NET INCREASE ............................... 2,627,068 2,350,522 7,588,457 6,708,291
----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS FROM:
Net investment income ........................ (1,970,313) (2,184,122) (5,127,716) (5,399,835)
Net realized gain ............................ -- -- -- --
----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
TOTAL ...................................... (1,970,313) (2,184,122) (5,127,716) (5,399,835)
----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
TRANSACTIONS IN SHARES OF BENEFICIAL
INTEREST:
Net proceeds from sales....................... 3,583,708 2,336,830 7,971,183 7,477,913
Reinvestment of dividends and distributions .. 956,419 1,079,937 2,300,541 2,501,877
Cost of shares repurchased ................... (5,432,230) (7,940,826) (11,766,093) (20,938,231)
----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) .................... (892,103) (4,524,059) (1,494,369) (10,958,441)
----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
TOTAL INCREASE (DECREASE) .................. (235,348) (4,357,659) 966,372 (9,649,985)
NET ASSETS:
Beginning of period........................... 41,890,558 46,248,217 104,209,069 113,859,054
----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
END OF PERIOD .............................. $41,655,210 $41,890,558 $105,175,441 $104,209,069
================= ================= ================= =================
UNDISTRIBUTED NET INVESTMENT INCOME ......... -- $ 11,331 -- $ 28,867
================= ================= ================= =================
SHARES ISSUED AND REPURCHASED:
Sold ......................................... 333,041 222,217 718,169 695,221
Reinvestment of dividends and distributions .. 89,180 102,819 207,368 232,768
Repurchased................................... (506,438) (756,888) (1,061,263) (1,952,197)
----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) .................... (84,217) (431,852) (135,726) (1,024,208)
================= ================= ================= =================
</TABLE>
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
100
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
FLORIDA MASSACHUSETTS MICHIGAN
- ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------
FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR
ENDED ENDED ENDED ENDED ENDED ENDED
NOVEMBER 30, 1998 NOVEMBER 30, 1997 NOVEMBER 30, 1998 NOVEMBER 30, 1997 NOVEMBER 30, 1998 NOVMEBER 30, 1997
- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$ 2,983,488 $ 3,374,873 $ 670,436 $ 724,955 $ 876,689 $ 986,199
2,077,788 7,528 171,067 33,483 708,264 (5,611)
(437,571) 537,792 170,653 179,559 (248,253) 274,701
- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
4,623,705 3,920,193 1,012,156 937,997 1,336,700 1,255,289
- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
(3,001,258) (3,366,826) (674,613) (722,987) (881,921) (982,775)
-- -- (26,809) -- -- --
- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
(3,001,258) (3,366,826) (701,422) (722,987) (881,921) (982,775)
- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
6,336,196 8,867,050 2,177,938 1,064,313 1,976,447 1,770,777
1,065,444 1,179,653 398,624 419,440 488,182 545,749
(12,850,195) (16,053,675) (2,212,481) (3,158,448) (4,672,568) (3,939,781)
- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
(5,448,555) (6,006,972) 364,081 (1,674,695) (2,207,939) (1,623,255)
- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
(3,826,108) (5,453,605) 674,815 (1,459,685) (1,753,160) (1,350,741)
65,088,141 70,541,746 14,561,275 16,020,960 19,512,370 20,863,111
- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
$ 61,262,033 $ 65,088,141 $15,236,090 $14,561,275 $17,759,210 $19,512,370
================= ================= ================= ================= ================= =================
-- $ 17,770 -- $ 4,177 -- $ 5,232
================= ================= ================= ================= ================= =================
569,452 824,008 193,348 97,718 178,504 164,023
95,684 109,387 35,479 38,568 44,120 50,741
(1,152,957) (1,491,135) (196,446) (291,669) (419,448) (366,507)
- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
(487,821) (557,740) 32,381 (155,383) (196,824) (151,743)
================= ================= ================= ================= ================= =================
</TABLE>
101
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS, continued
STATEMENT OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS, continued
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MINNESOTA NEW JERSEY
------------------------------------ ------------------------------------
FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR
ENDED ENDED ENDED ENDED
NOVEMBER 30, 1998 NOVEMBER 30, 1997 NOVEMBER 30, 1998 NOVEMBER 30, 1997
- --------------------------------------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS:
OPERATIONS:
Net investment income ........................ $ 385,482 $ 427,503 $ 1,969,062 $ 2,163,401
Net realized gain (loss) ..................... 152,552 (2,079) 614,679 150,746
Net change in unrealized appreciation ....... (55,068) 75,733 394,703 554,643
----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
NET INCREASE ............................... 482,966 501,157 2,978,444 2,868,790
----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS FROM:
Net investment income ........................ (388,129) (426,679) (1,980,284) (2,158,598)
Net realized gain ............................ -- -- -- --
----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
TOTAL ...................................... (388,129) (426,679) (1,980,284) (2,158,598)
----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
TRANSACTIONS IN SHARES OF BENEFICIAL
INTEREST:
Net proceeds from sales....................... 450,188 341,882 4,281,513 3,174,698
Reinvestment of dividends and distributions .. 205,051 238,618 1,110,422 1,208,830
Cost of shares repurchased ................... (1,075,759) (1,835,516) (6,107,000) (8,403,076)
----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) .................... (420,520) (1,255,016) (715,065) (4,019,548)
----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
TOTAL INCREASE (DECREASE) .................. (325,683) (1,180,538) 283,095 (3,309,356)
NET ASSETS:
Beginning of period........................... 8,742,351 9,922,889 41,519,917 44,829,273
----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
END OF PERIOD .............................. $ 8,416,668 $ 8,742,351 $41,803,012 $41,519,917
================= ================= ================= =================
UNDISTRIBUTED NET INVESTMENT INCOME ......... -- $ 2,647 -- $ 11,222
================= ================= ================= =================
SHARES ISSUED AND REPURCHASED:
Sold ......................................... 41,683 32,070 387,819 298,058
Reinvestment of dividends and distributions .. 19,052 22,587 100,683 113,233
Repurchased................................... (99,811) (173,686) (554,108) (786,812)
----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
NET INCREASE (DECREASE) .................... (39,076) (119,029) (65,606) (375,521)
================= ================= ================= =================
</TABLE>
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
102
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NEW YORK OHIO PENNSYLVANIA
- ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------ ------------------------------------
FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR FOR THE YEAR
ENDED ENDED ENDED ENDED ENDED ENDED
NOVEMBER 30, 1998 NOVEMBER 30, 1997 NOVEMBER 30, 1998 NOVEMBER 30, 1997 NOVEMBER 30, 1998 NOVMEBER 30, 1997
- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$ 566,953 $ 627,325 $ 863,067 $ 987,729 $ 2,506,283 $ 2,231,381
408,044 10,788 388,407 (12,075) 578,722 8,207
(77,877) 215,377 (29,432) 291,150 203,628 509,480
- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
897,120 853,490 1,222,042 1,266,804 3,288,633 2,749,068
- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
(570,172) (626,041) (870,982) (985,654) (2,518,046) (2,226,117)
-- -- -- -- (8,207) (98,622)
- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
(570,172) (626,041) (870,982) (985,654) (2,526,253) (2,324,739)
- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
656,120 500,333 2,170,150 1,904,978 12,831,070 2,548,744
301,450 327,002 479,951 559,793 1,539,410 1,234,155
(1,857,636) (2,488,429) (2,897,075) (5,477,168) (5,380,740) (7,206,475)
- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
(900,066) (1,661,094) (246,974) (3,012,397) 8,989,740 (3,423,576)
- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
(573,118) (1,433,645) 104,086 (2,731,247) 9,752,120 (2,999,247)
12,586,446 14,020,091 18,476,220 21,207,467 44,056,127 47,055,374
- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
$12,013,328 $12,586,446 $18,580,306 $18,476,220 $53,808,247 $44,056,127
================= ================= ================= ================= ================= =================
-- $ 3,219 -- $ 7,915 -- $ 11,763
================= ================= ================= ================= ================= =================
58,252 46,105 195,888 177,550 1,154,976 236,669
26,721 30,087 43,444 52,107 139,044 114,454
(164,456) (230,243) (262,446) (508,953) (485,530) (670,418)
- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- ----------------- -----------------
(79,483) (154,051) (23,114) (279,296) 808,490 (319,295)
================= ================= ================= ================= ================= =================
</TABLE>
103
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS November 30, 1998
1. Organization and Accounting Policies
Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Multi-State Municipal Series Trust (the "Fund"),
formerly Dean Witter Multi-State Municipal Series Trust, is registered under
the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Act"), as a
non-diversified, open-end management investment company. The investment
objective of each Series is to provide a high level of current income exempt
from both Federal and the designated state income taxes consistent with
preservation of capital.
The Fund, organized on October 29, 1990, as a Massachusetts business trust,
is comprised of ten separate Series (the "Series"): the Arizona Series, the
California Series, the Florida Series, the Massachusetts Series, the Michigan
Series, the Minnesota Series, the New Jersey Series, the New York Series, the
Ohio Series and the Pennsylvania Series. Each of the Series commenced
operations on January 15, 1991, with the exception of the Arizona Series
which commenced operations on April 30, 1991.
The preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions
that affect the reported amounts and disclosures. Actual results could differ
from those estimates.
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies:
A. VALUATION OF INVESTMENTS -- Portfolio securities are valued by an outside
independent pricing service approved by the Fund's Trustees. The pricing
service has informed the Fund that in valuing the portfolio securities, it
uses both a computerized matrix of tax-exempt securities and evaluations by
its staff, in each case based on information concerning market transactions
and quotations from dealers which reflect the bid side of the market each
day. The portfolio securities are thus valued by reference to a combination
of transactions and quotations for the same or other securities believed to
be comparable in quality, coupon, maturity, type of issue, call provisions,
trading characteristics and other features deemed to be relevant. Short-term
debt securities having a maturity date of more than sixty days at time of
purchase are valued on a mark-to-market basis until sixty days prior to
maturity and thereafter at amortized cost based on their value on the 61st
day. Short-term debt securities having a maturity date of sixty days or less
at the time of purchase are valued at amortized cost.
B. ACCOUNTING FOR INVESTMENTS -- Security transactions are accounted for on
the trade date (date the order to buy or sell is executed). Realized gains
and losses on security transactions are determined by the identified cost
method. Discounts are accreted and premiums are amortized over the life of
the respective securities. Interest income is accrued daily.
104
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS November 30, 1998, continued
C. FEDERAL INCOME TAX STATUS -- It is the Fund's policy to comply
individually for each Series with the requirements of the Internal Revenue
Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute all of
its taxable and nontaxable income to its shareholders. Accordingly, no
federal income tax provision is required.
D. DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS -- The Fund records dividends
and distributions to its shareholders on the record date. The amount of
dividends and distributions from net investment income and net realized
capital gains are determined in accordance with federal income tax
regulations which may differ from generally accepted accounting principles.
These "book/tax" differences are either considered temporary or permanent in
nature. To the extent these differences are permanent in nature, such amounts
are reclassified within the capital accounts based on their federal tax-basis
treatment; temporary differences do not require reclassification. Dividends
and distributions which exceed net investment income and net realized capital
gains for financial reporting purposes but not for tax purposes are reported
as dividends in excess of net investment income or distributions in excess of
net realized capital gains. To the extent they exceed net investment income
and net realized capital gains for tax purposes, they are reported as
distributions of paid-in-capital.
E. EXPENSES-- Direct expenses are charged to the respective Series and
general corporate expenses are allocated on the basis of relative net assets
or equally among the Series.
2. Investment Management Agreement
Pursuant to an Investment Management Agreement, each Series of the Fund pays
Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Advisors Inc. (the "Investment Manager"), formerly
Dean Witter InterCapital Inc., a management fee, accrued daily and payable
monthly, by applying the annual rate of 0.35% to the daily net assets of each
Series determined as of the close of each business day.
Under the terms of the Agreement, in addition to managing the Fund's
investments, the Investment Manager maintains certain of the Fund's books and
records and furnishes office space and facilities, equipment, clerical,
bookkeeping and certain legal services, and pays the salaries of all
personnel, including officers of the Fund who are employees of the Investment
Manager. The Investment Manager also bears the cost of telephone services,
heat, light, power and other utilities provided to the Fund.
105
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS November 30, 1998, continued
3. Plan of Distribution
Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Distributors Inc. (the "Distributor"), an
affiliate of the Investment Manager, is the distributor of the Fund's shares
and, in accordance with a Plan of Distribution (the "Plan") pursuant to Rule
12b-1 under the Act, finances certain expenses in connection with the
distribution of shares of the Fund.
Under the Plan, the expenses of certain activities and services provided by
Dean Witter Reynolds Inc. ("DWR"), an affiliate of the Investment Manager and
Distributor, and others who engage in or support distribution of the Fund's
shares or who service shareholder accounts, including overhead and telephone
expenses incurred in connection with the distribution of the Fund's shares,
are reimbursed.
Reimbursements for these expenses will be made in monthly payments by the
Fund to the Distributor, which will in no event exceed an amount equal to a
payment at the annual rate of 0.15% of the Fund's average daily net assets
during the month. Expenses incurred by the Distributor pursuant to the Plan
in any fiscal year will not be reimbursed by the Fund through payments
accrued in any subsequent fiscal year. For the year ended November 30, 1998,
the distribution fees were accrued at the following annual rates:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ARIZONA CALIFORNIA FLORIDA MASSACHUSETTS MICHIGAN
--------- ------------ --------- --------------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Annual Rate .. 0.14% 0.15% 0.14% 0.15% 0.15%
========= ============ ========= =============== ==========
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MINNESOTA NEW JERSEY NEW YORK OHIO PENNSYLVANIA
--------- ------------ --------- --------------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
0.15% 0.14% 0.14% 0.14% 0.15%
========= ============ ========= =============== ==========
</TABLE>
For the year ended November 30, 1998, the Distributor has informed the Fund
that commissions from the sale of the Fund's shares of beneficial interest
were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ARIZONA CALIFORNIA FLORIDA MASSACHUSETTS MICHIGAN
--------- ------------ ---------- --------------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Commissions .. $94,554 $219,305 $190,868 $55,613 $65,183
========= ============ ========== =============== ==========
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MINNESOTA NEW JERSEY NEW YORK OHIO PENNSYLVANIA
--------- ------------ ---------- --------------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$10,799 $140,874 $18,592 $70,138 $129,017
========= ============ ========== =============== ==========
</TABLE>
Such commissions are not an expense of the Fund; they are deducted from the
proceeds of the sale of the shares of beneficial interest.
106
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS November 30, 1998, continued
4. SECURITY TRANSACTIONS AND TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
The cost of purchases and proceeds from the sales of portfolio securities,
excluding short-term investments, for the year ended November 30, 1998 were
as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ARIZONA CALIFORNIA FLORIDA MASSACHUSETTS MICHIGAN
------------- ------------- ------------- --------------- -------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Purchases .. $11,771,890 $24,254,223 $15,535,535 $4,328,314 $7,237,675
============= ============= ============= =============== =============
Sales ...... $13,588,949 $27,721,882 $23,127,460 $4,392,337 $9,632,448
============= ============= ============= =============== =============
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MINNESOTA NEW JERSEY NEW YORK OHIO PENNSYLVANIA
------------- ------------- ------------- ------------ --------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Purchases .. $1,584,038 $ 8,431,253 $3,771,880 $6,369,104 $20,892,275
============= ============= ============= ============ ==============
Sales ...... $2,157,687 $10,396,072 $4,848,305 $6,342,118 $12,724,592
============= ============= ============= ============ ==============
</TABLE>
The Fund has an unfunded noncontributory defined benefit pension plan
covering all independent Trustees of the Fund who will have served as
independent Trustees for at least five years at the time of retirement.
Benefits under this plan are based on years of service and compensation
during the last five years of service. Aggregate pension costs for the year
ended November 30, 1998 included in Trustees' fees and expenses in the
Statement of Operations and the accrued pension liability included in accrued
expenses in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities for each of the
respective Series were as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ARIZONA CALIFORNIA FLORIDA MASSACHUSETTS MICHIGAN
--------- ------------ --------- --------------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Aggregate Pension Costs $579 $1,530 $931 $219 $280
========= ============ ========= =============== ==========
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MINNESOTA NEW JERSEY NEW YORK OHIO PENNSYLVANIA
--------- ------------ --------- --------------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$131 $600 $188 $270 $780
========= ============ ========= =============== ==========
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ARIZONA CALIFORNIA FLORIDA MASSACHUSETTS MICHIGAN
--------- ------------ --------- --------------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Accrued Pension Liability $4,085 $10,083 $6,199 $1,419 $1,819
========= ============ ========= =============== ==========
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MINNESOTA NEW JERSEY NEW YORK OHIO PENNSYLVANIA
--------- ------------ --------- --------------- ----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$927 $3,970 $1,230 $1,959 $4,483
========= ============ ========= =============== ==========
</TABLE>
107
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS November 30, 1998, continued
Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Trust FSB, an affiliate of the Investment Manager
and Distributor, is the Fund's transfer agent. At November 30, 1998, each of
the Series had transfer agent fees and expenses payable as follows:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ARIZONA CALIFORNIA FLORIDA MASSACHUSETTS MICHIGAN
----------- -------------- ----------- ----------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Transfer Agent Fees and Expenses Payable .... $366 $143 $131 $116 $17
=========== ============== =========== ================= ============
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MINNESOTA NEW JERSEY NEW YORK OHIO PENNSYLVANIA
----------- -------------- ----------- ----------------- ------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$45 $143 $40 $15 $910
=========== ============== =========== ================= ============
</TABLE>
5. FEDERAL INCOME TAX STATUS
During the year ended November 30, 1998, the following Series utilized their
approximate net capital loss carryovers:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Arizona ...... $116,700
California .. 451,400
Florida ...... 79,700
Michigan ..... 14,000
Minnesota .... 81,400
New Jersey .. 5,200
New York ..... 13,300
Ohio ......... 170,200
</TABLE>
Capital losses incurred after October 31 ("post-October" losses) within the
taxable year are deemed to arise on the first business day of the Funds' next
taxable year. The Ohio Series incurred and will elect to defer net capital
losses during fiscal 1998 of approximately $1,600.
108
<PAGE>
(This page has been left blank intentionally.)
109
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Selected ratios and per share data for a share of beneficial interest
outstanding throughout each period:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NET ASSET TOTAL
YEAR VALUE NET NET REALIZED TOTAL FROM DISTRIBUTIONS DIVIDENDS
ENDED BEGINNING INVESTMENT AND UNREALIZED INVESTMENT DIVIDENDS TO TO AND
NOVEMBER 30 OF PERIOD INCOME GAIN (LOSS) OPERATIONS SHAREHOLDERS SHAREHOLDERS DISTRIBUTIONS
- ------------- ----------- ------------ -------------- ------------ -------------- --------------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
ARIZONA SERIES
1994 $10.72 $0.55 $(1.29) $(0.74) $(0.55) $(0.01) $(0.56)
1995 9.42 0.54 1.23 1.77 (0.54) -- (0.54)
1996 10.65 0.54 (0.06) 0.48 (0.54) -- (0.54)
1997 10.59 0.53 0.05 0.58 (0.53) -- (0.53)
1998 10.64 0.51 0.17 0.68 (0.51) -- (0.51)
CALIFORNIA SERIES
1994 11.00 0.58 (1.48) (0.90) (0.58) (0.14) (0.72)
1995 9.38 0.56 1.29 1.85 (0.56) -- (0.56)
1996 10.67 0.56 0.14 0.70 (0.56) -- (0.56)
1997 10.81 0.55 0.15 0.70 (0.55) -- (0.55)
1998 10.96 0.54 0.26 0.80 (0.54) -- (0.54)
FLORIDA SERIES
1994 10.93 0.56 (1.33) (0.77) (0.56) -- (0.56)
1995 9.60 0.56 1.28 1.84 (0.56) -- (0.56)
1996 10.88 0.55 (0.02) 0.53 (0.55) -- (0.55)
1997 10.86 0.54 0.11 0.65 (0.54) -- (0.54)
1998 10.97 0.52 0.28 0.80 (0.52) -- (0.52)
MASSACHUSETTS SERIES
1994 11.08 0.56 (1.38) (0.82) (0.56) (0.10) (0.66)
1995 9.60 0.57 1.37 1.94 (0.57) -- (0.57)
1996 10.97 0.57 (0.03) 0.54 (0.57) (0.02) (0.59)
1997 10.92 0.53 0.18 0.71 (0.53) -- (0.53)
1998 11.10 0.51 0.25 0.76 (0.51) (0.02) (0.53)
MICHIGAN SERIES
1994 11.05 0.56 (1.41) (0.85) (0.56) (0.18) (0.74)
1995 9.46 0.57 1.35 1.92 (0.57) -- (0.57)
1996 10.81 0.56 (0.03) 0.53 (0.56) -- (0.56)
1997 10.78 0.53 0.16 0.69 (0.53) -- (0.53)
1998 10.94 0.51 0.25 0.76 (0.51) -- (0.51)
</TABLE>
- ------------
+ Does not reflect the deduction of sales load. Calculated based on the
net asset value as of the last business day of the period.
(1) Does not reflect the effect of expense offset of 0.01%.
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
110
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET
ASSETS ASSETS
(AFTER EXPENSES WERE (BEFORE EXPENSES WERE
ASSUMED) ASSUMED)
------------------------ ------------------------
NET ASSET NET ASSETS
VALUE END OF NET NET PORTFOLIO
END OF TOTAL PERIOD INVESTMENT INVESTMENT TURNOVER
PERIOD RETURN+ (000'S) EXPENSES INCOME EXPENSES INCOME RATE
- ----------- --------- ------------ ---------- ------------ ---------- ------------ -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$9.42 (7.16)% $ 47,628 0.62% 5.33% 0.63% 5.32% 11%
10.65 19.21 50,290 0.65 (1) 5.33 0.65 (1) 5.33 6
10.59 4.63 46,248 0.65 (1) 5.12 0.65 (1) 5.12 9
10.64 5.64 41,891 0.66 (1) 5.04 0.66 (1) 5.04 2
10.81 6.56 41,655 0.65 (1) 4.77 0.65 (1) 4.77 30
9.38 (8.65) 112,450 0.58 5.59 0.59 5.58 12
10.67 20.15 117,769 0.60 (1) 5.50 0.60 (1) 5.50 5
10.81 6.76 113,859 0.59 5.28 0.59 5.28 19
10.96 6.55 104,209 0.59 5.08 0.59 5.08 17
11.22 7.58 105,175 0.59 (1) 4.87 0.59 (1) 4.87 24
9.60 (7.29) 71,458 0.61 5.34 0.62 5.33 3
10.88 19.54 74,058 0.63 (1) 5.34 0.63 (1) 5.34 8
10.86 5.03 70,542 0.62 (1) 5.13 0.62 (1) 5.13 25
10.97 6.10 65,088 0.62 5.02 0.62 5.02 7
11.25 7.58 61,262 0.62 (1) 4.69 0.62 (1) 4.69 26
9.60 (7.71) 15,507 0.50 5.35 0.78 5.07 10
10.97 20.58 16,954 0.50 (1) 5.39 0.79 (1) 5.11 7
10.92 5.07 16,021 0.50 (1) 5.23 0.82 (1) 4.91 11
11.10 6.68 14,561 0.79 (1) 4.85 0.81 (1) 4.83 10
11.33 7.03 15,236 0.83 (1) 4.55 0.83 (1) 4.55 31
9.46 (8.07) 19,831 0.50 5.44 0.75 5.19 9
10.81 20.69 21,673 0.50 (1) 5.49 0.77 (1) 5.22 22
10.78 5.09 20,863 0.50 (1) 5.27 0.76 (1) 5.01 5
10.94 6.52 19,512 0.72 (1) 4.95 0.74 (1) 4.93 3
11.19 7.23 17,759 0.78 (1) 4.63 0.78 (1) 4.63 40
</TABLE>
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
111
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS, continued
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
NET ASSET TOTAL
YEAR VALUE NET NET REALIZED TOTAL FROM DISTRIBUTIONS DIVIDENDS
ENDED BEGINNING INVESTMENT AND UNREALIZED INVESTMENT DIVIDENDS TO TO AND
NOVEMBER 30 OF PERIOD INCOME GAIN (LOSS) OPERATIONS SHAREHOLDERS SHAREHOLDERS DISTRIBUTIONS
- ------------- ----------- ------------ -------------- ------------ -------------- --------------- ---------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
MINNESOTA SERIES
1994 $10.78 $0.55 $(1.42) $(0.87) $(0.55) $(0.08) $(0.63)
1995 9.28 0.54 1.33 1.87 (0.54) -- (0.54)
1996 10.61 0.54 (0.01) 0.53 (0.54) -- (0.54)
1997 10.60 0.49 0.10 0.59 (0.49) -- (0.49)
1998 10.70 0.48 0.13 0.61 (0.49) -- (0.49)
NEW JERSEY SERIES
1994 10.94 0.55 (1.39) (0.84) (0.55) (0.08) (0.63)
1995 9.47 0.56 1.26 1.82 (0.56) -- (0.56)
1996 10.73 0.55 (0.03) 0.52 (0.55) -- (0.55)
1997 10.70 0.53 0.18 0.71 (0.53) -- (0.53)
1998 10.88 0.53 0.27 0.80 (0.53) -- (0.53)
NEW YORK SERIES
1994 11.03 0.57 (1.52) (0.95) (0.57) (0.05) (0.62)
1995 9.46 0.56 1.42 1.98 (0.56) -- (0.56)
1996 10.88 0.56 0.02 0.58 (0.56) -- (0.56)
1997 10.90 0.53 0.21 0.74 (0.53) -- (0.53)
1998 11.11 0.52 0.30 0.82 (0.52) -- (0.52)
OHIO SERIES
1994 10.97 0.55 (1.43) (0.88) (0.55) (0.12) (0.67)
1995 9.42 0.56 1.38 1.94 (0.56) -- (0.56)
1996 10.80 0.55 (0.03) 0.52 (0.55) -- (0.55)
1997 10.77 0.53 0.17 0.70 (0.53) -- (0.53)
1998 10.94 0.52 0.21 0.73 (0.52) -- (0.52)
PENNSYLVANIA SERIES
1994 11.01 0.56 (1.39) (0.83) (0.56) (0.06) (0.62)
1995 9.56 0.55 1.29 1.84 (0.55) -- (0.55)
1996 10.85 0.55 -- 0.55 (0.55) -- (0.55)
1997 10.85 0.54 0.14 0.68 (0.54) (0.02) (0.56)
1998 10.97 0.53 0.18 0.71 (0.53) -- (0.53)
</TABLE>
- ------------
+ Does not reflect the deduction of sales load. Calculated based on the
net asset value as of the last business day of the period.
(1) Does not reflect the effect of expense offset of 0.01%.
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
112
<PAGE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET RATIOS TO AVERAGE NET
ASSETS ASSETS
(AFTER EXPENSES WERE (BEFORE EXPENSES WERE
ASSUMED) ASSUMED)
------------------------ ------------------------
NET ASSET NET ASSETS
VALUE END OF NET NET PORTFOLIO
END OF TOTAL PERIOD INVESTMENT INVESTMENT TURNOVER
PERIOD RETURN+ (000'S) EXPENSES INCOME EXPENSES INCOME RATE
- ----------- --------- ------------ ---------- ------------ ---------- ------------ -----------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$9.28 (8.42)% $ 9,793 0.50% 5.41% 0.91% 5.00% 14%
10.61 20.60 11,230 0.50 (1) 5.35 0.98 (1) 4.88 3
10.60 5.21 9,923 0.50 (1) 5.21 0.96 (1) 4.75 5
10.70 5.76 8,742 0.94 (1) 4.68 0.97 (1) 4.65 --
10.82 5.77 8,417 0.99 (1) 4.49 0.99 (1) 4.49 20
9.47 (7.96) 45,497 0.64 5.38 0.65 5.37 6
10.73 19.60 47,889 0.67 (1) 5.42 0.67 (1) 5.42 14
10.70 4.93 44,829 0.66 (1) 5.23 0.66 (1) 5.23 5
10.88 6.99 41,520 0.66 5.02 0.66 5.02 14
11.15 7.49 41,803 0.67 (1) 4.77 0.67 (1) 4.77 21
9.46 (8.96) 14,522 0.50 5.48 0.82 5.16 14
10.88 21.40 14,388 0.50 (1) 5.43 0.85 (1) 5.09 24
10.90 5.46 14,020 0.50 (1) 5.25 0.84 (1) 4.91 22
11.11 7.06 12,586 0.82 (1) 4.84 0.84 (1) 4.82 4
11.41 7.50 12,013 0.84 (1) 4.57 0.84 (1) 4.57 33
9.42 (8.34) 20,693 0.50 5.31 0.71 5.10 18
10.80 21.02 23,104 0.50 (1) 5.42 0.77 (1) 5.16 19
10.77 5.04 21,207 0.50 (1) 5.23 0.75 (1) 4.98 32
10.94 6.67 18,476 0.73 (1) 4.90 0.74 (1) 4.89 5
11.15 6.84 18,580 0.75 (1) 4.70 0.75 (1) 4.70 37
9.56 (7.84) 47,557 0.64 5.37 0.66 5.35 19
10.85 19.65 53,935 0.66 (1) 5.29 0.66 (1) 5.29 8
10.85 5.27 47,055 0.65 (1) 5.17 0.65 (1) 5.17 --
10.97 6.53 44,056 0.66 5.01 0.66 5.01 8
11.15 6.60 53,808 0.64 4.75 0.64 4.75 26
</TABLE>
SEE NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
113
<PAGE>
MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
TO THE SHAREHOLDERS AND TRUSTEES
OF MORGAN STANLEY DEAN WITTER MULTI-STATE MUNICIPAL SERIES TRUST
In our opinion, the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities,
including the portfolios of investments, and the related statements of
operations and of changes in net assets and the financial highlights present
fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Arizona
Series, the California Series, the Florida Series, the Massachusetts Series,
the Michigan Series, the Minnesota Series, the New Jersey Series, the New
York Series, the Ohio Series, and the Pennsylvania Series (constituting the
Morgan Stanley Dean Witter Multi-State Municipal Series Trust, formerly Dean
Witter Multi-State Municipal Series Trust, hereafter referred to as the
"Fund") at November 30, 1998, the results of each of their operations for the
year then ended, the changes in each of their net assets for each of the two
years in the period then ended and the financial highlights for each of the
five years in the period then ended, in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles. These financial statements and financial highlights
(hereafter referred to as "financial statements") are the responsibility of
the Fund's management; our responsibility is to express an opinion on these
financial statements based on our audits. We conducted our audits of these
financial statements in accordance with generally accepted auditing standards
which require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable
assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material
misstatement. An audit includes examining, on a test basis, evidence
supporting the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements, assessing
the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management,
and evaluating the overall financial statement presentation. We believe that
our audits, which included confirmation of securities at November 30, 1998 by
correspondence with the custodian and brokers, provide a reasonable basis for
the opinion expressed above.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
1177 Avenue of the Americas
New York, New York 10036
January 12, 1999
1998 Federal Income Tax Notice (unaudited)
During the year ended November 30, 1998, each Series paid to its
shareholders the following per share amounts from tax-exempt income:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ARIZONA CALIFORNIA FLORIDA MASSACHUSETTS MICHIGAN MINNESOTA NEW JERSEY NEW YORK OHIO PENNSYLVANIA
- --------- ------------ --------- --------------- ---------- ----------- ------------ ---------- ------- --------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
$0.51 $0.54 $0.52 $0.51 $0.51 $0.49 $0.53 $0.52 $0.52 $0.53
</TABLE>
During the year ended November 30, 1998, the Massachusetts Series paid
to its shareholders long-term capital gains of $0.02 per share, and the
Pennsylvania Series paid to its shareholders long-term capital gains of
$0.002 per share.
<PAGE>
APPENDIX
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
RATINGS OF INVESTMENTS
MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE INC. ("MOODY'S")
MUNICIPAL BOND RATINGS
Aaa Bonds which are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They
carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally
referred to as "gilt edge." Interest payments are protected by a
large or by an exceptionally stable margin and principal is secure.
While the various protective elements are likely to change, such
changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair the
fundamentally strong position of such issues.
Aa Bonds which are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all
standards. Together with the Aaa group they comprise what are
generally known as high grade bonds. They are rated lower than the
best bonds because margins of protection may not be as large as in
Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective elements may be of
greater amplitude or there may be other elements present which make
the long-term risks appear somewhat larger than in Aaa securities.
A Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes
and are to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors
giving security to principal and interest are considered adequate,
but elements may be present which suggest a susceptibility to
impairment sometime in the future.
Baa Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium grade obligation;
i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest
payments and principal security appear adequate for the present but
certain protective elements may be lacking or may be
characteristically unreliable over any great length of time. Such
bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in fact have
speculative characteristics as well.
Bonds rated Aaa, Aa, A and Baa are considered investment grade bonds.
Ba Bonds which are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements;
their future cannot be considered as well assured. Often the
protection of interest and principal payments may be very moderate,
and therefore not well safeguarded during both good and bad times
over the future. Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this
class.
B Bonds which are rated B generally lack characteristics of a desirable
investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of
maintenance of other terms of the contract over any long period of
time may be small.
Caa Bonds which are rated Caa are of poor standing. Such issues may be in
default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to
principal or interest.
Ca Bonds which are rated Ca present obligations which are speculative in
a high degree. Such issues are often in default or have other marked
shortcomings.
C Bonds which are rated C are the lowest rated class of bonds, and
issues so rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of
ever attaining any real investment standing.
Conditional Rating: Bonds for which the security depends upon the
completion of some act of the fulfillment of some condition are rated
conditionally. These are bonds secured by (a) earnings of projects under
construction, (b) earnings of projects unseasoned in operation experience,
(c) rentals which begin when facilities are completed, or (d) payments to
which some other limiting condition attaches. Parenthetical rating denotes
probable credit stature upon completion of construction or elimination of
basis of condition.
Rating Refinements: Moody's may apply numerical modifiers, 1, 2 and 3 in
each generic rating classification from Aa through B in its municipal bond
rating system. The modifier 1 indicates a mid-range ranking; and a modifier 3
indicates that the issue ranks in the lower end of its generic rating
category.
115
<PAGE>
MUNICIPAL NOTE RATINGS
Moody's ratings for state and municipal notes and other short-term loans
are designated Moody's Investment Grade (MIG). MIG 1 denotes best quality and
means there is present strong protection from established cash flows,
superior liquidity support or demonstrated broad-based access to the market
for refinancing. MIG 2 denotes high quality and means that margins of
protection are ample although not as large as in MIG 1. MIG 3 denotes
favorable quality and means that all security elements are accounted for but
that the undeniable strength of the previous grades, MIG 1 and MIG 2, is
lacking. MIG 4 denotes adequate quality and means that the protection
commonly regarded as required of an investment security is present and that
while the notes are not distinctly or predominantly speculative, there is
specific risk.
VARIABLE RATE DEMAND OBLIGATIONS
A short-term rating, in addition to the Bond or MIG ratings, designated
VMIG may also be assigned to an issue having a demand feature. The assignment
of the VMIG symbol reflects such characteristics as payment upon periodic
demand rather than fixed maturity dates and payment relying on external
liquidity. The VMIG rating criteria are identical to the MIG criteria
discussed above.
COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
Moody's Commercial Paper ratings are opinions of the ability to repay
punctually promissory obligations not having an original maturity in excess
of nine months. These ratings apply to Municipal commercial Paper as well as
taxable Commercial Paper. Moody's employs the following three designations,
all judged to be investment grade, to indicate the relative repayment
capacity of rated issuers: Prime-1, Prime-2, Prime-3.
Issuers rated Prime-1 have a superior capacity for repayment of short-term
promissory obligations. Issuers rated Prime-2 have a strong capacity for
repayment of short-term promissory obligations; and Issuers rated Prime-3
have an acceptable capacity for repayment of short-term promissory
obligations. Issuers rated Not Prime do not fall within any of the Prime
rating categories.
STANDARD & POOR'S CORPORATION ("STANDARD & POOR'S")
MUNICIPAL BOND RATINGS
A Standard & Poor's municipal rating is a current assessment of the
creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to a specific obligation. This
assessment may take into consideration obligors such as guarantors, insurers,
or lessees.
The ratings are based on current information furnished by the issuer or
obtained by Standard & Poor's from other sources it considers reliable. The
ratings are based, in varying degrees, on the following considerations: (1)
likelihood of default-capacity and willingness of the obligor as to the
timely payment of interest and repayment of principal in accordance with the
terms of the obligation; (2) nature of and provisions of the obligation; and
(3) protection afforded by, and relative position of, the obligation in the
event of bankruptcy, reorganization or other arrangement under the laws of
bankruptcy and other laws affecting creditors' rights.
Standard & Poor's does not perform an audit in connection with any rating
and may, on occasion, rely on unaudited financial information. The ratings
may be changed, suspended or withdrawn as a result of changes in, or
unavailability of, such information, or for other reasons.
AAA Debt rated "AAA" has the highest rating assigned by Standard &
Poor's. Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely
strong.
AA Debt rated "AA" has a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal and differs from the highest-rated issues only in small
degree.
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A Debt rated "A" has a strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal although they are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse
effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than debt
in higher-rated categories.
BBB Debt rated "BBB" is regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay
interest and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibits adequate
protection parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing
circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay
interest and repay principal for debt in this category than for debt
in higher-rated categories.
Bonds rated AAA, AA, A and BBB are considered investment grade bonds.
BB Debt rated "BB" has less near-term vulnerability to default than
other speculative grade debt. However, it faces major ongoing
uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial or economic
conditions which could lead to inadequate capacity to meet timely
interest and principal payment.
B Debt rated "B" has a greater vulnerability to default but presently
has the capacity to meet interest payments and principal repayments.
Adverse business, financial or economic conditions would likely
impair capacity or willingness to pay interest and repay principal.
CCC Debt rated "CCC" has a current identifiable vulnerability to default,
and is dependent upon favorable business, financial and economic
conditions to meet timely payments of interest and repayments of
principal. In the event of adverse business, financial or economic
conditions, it is not likely to have the capacity to pay interest and
repay principal.
CC The rating "CC" is typically applied to debt subordinated to senior
debt which is assigned an actual or implied "CCC" rating.
C The rating "C" is typically applied to debt subordinated to senior
debt which is assigned an actual or implied "CCC" debt rating.
Cl The rating "Cl" is reserved for income bonds on which no interest is
being paid.
D Debt rated "D" is in payment default. The 'D' rating category is used
when interest payments or principal payments are not made on the date
due even if the applicable grace period has not expired, unless S&P
believes that such payments will be made during such grace period.
The 'D' rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy
petition if debt service payments are jeopardized.
NR Indicates that no rating has been requested, that there is
insufficient information on which to base a rating or that Standard &
Poor's does not rate a particular type of obligation as a matter of
policy.
Bonds rated "BB", "B", "CCC", "CC" and "C" are regarded as having
predominantly speculative characteristics with respect to capacity to
pay interest and repay principal. "BB" indicates the least degree of
speculation and "C" the highest degree of speculation. While such debt
will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these are
outweighed by large uncertainties or major risk exposures to adverse
conditions.
Plus (+) or minus (-): The ratings from "AA" to "CCC" may be modified by
the addition of a plus or minus sign to show relative standing within
the major ratings categories.
The foregoing ratings are sometimes followed by a "p" which indicates
that the rating is provisional. A provisional rating assumes the
successful completion of the project being financed by the bonds being
rated and indicates that payment of debt service requirements is largely
or entirely dependent upon the successful and timely completion of the
project. This rating, however, while addressing credit quality
subsequent to completion of the project, makes no comment on the
likelihood or risk of default upon failure of such completion.
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MUNICIPAL NOTE RATINGS
Commencing on July 27, 1984, Standard & Poor's instituted a new rating
category with respect to certain municipal note issues with a maturity of
less than three years. The new note ratings denote the following:
SP-1 denotes a very strong or strong capacity to pay principal and
interest. Issues determined to possess overwhelming safety
characteristics are given a plus (+) designation (SP-1+).
SP-2 denotes a satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest.
SP-3 denotes a speculative capacity to pay principal and interest.
COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS
Standard and Poor's commerical paper rating is a current assessment of the
likelihood of timely payment of debt having an original maturity of no more
than 365 days. The commercial paper rating is not a recommendation to
purchase or sell a security. The ratings are based upon current information
furnished by the issuer or obtained by S&P from other sources it considers
reliable. The ratings may be changed, suspended, or withdrawn as a result of
changes in or unavailability of such information. Ratings are graded into
group categories, ranging from "A" for the highest quality obligations to "D"
for the lowest. Ratings are applicable to both taxable and tax-exempt
commercial paper. The categories are as follows:
Issues assigned A ratings are regarded as having the greatest capacity for
timely payment. Issues in this category are further refined with the
designation 1, 2 and 3 to indicate the relative degree of safety.
A-1 indicates that the degree of safety regarding timely payments is very
strong.
A-2 indicates capacity for timely payment on issues with this designation is
strong. However, the relative degree of safety is not as overwhelming as for
issues designated "A-1".
A-3 indicates a satisfactory capacity for timely payment. Obligations
carrying this designation are, however, somewhat more vulnerable to the
adverse effects of changes in circumstances than obligations carrying the
higher designations.
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