BRINSON FUNDS INC
497, 1999-05-07
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<PAGE>
 

                                           [Brinson Logo]
                                                                                

                                           The Brinson Funds
                                           Class I Shares

                                             Prospectus
                                             May 3, 1999

                                           Global Fund
                                           Global Equity Fund
                                           Global Bond Fund
                                           U.S. Balanced Fund
                                           U.S. Equity Fund
                                           U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund
                                           U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund
                                           U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund
                                           U.S. Bond Fund
                                           High Yield Fund
                                           Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund

    
                                       As with any mutual fund, the Securities
                                       and Exchange Commission (SEC) has not
                                       approved or disapproved of these
                                       securities or determined whether this
                                       prospectus is adequate or complete. Any
                                       representation to the contrary is a
                                       criminal offense.     

 

[Brinson Logo]


The Brinson Funds

209 South LaSalle Street.Chicago, Illinois 60604-1295
Tel: 1-800-448-2430
<PAGE>
 
Table of Contents


The Brinson Investment Process                                          2
    
Overview of the Funds     

    Global Fund                                                         3

    Global Equity Fund                                                  4

    Global Bond Fund                                                    5

    U.S. Balanced Fund                                                  6

    U.S. Equity Fund                                                    7

    U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund                               8

    U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund                               9

    U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund                              10

    U.S. Bond Fund                                                     11

    High Yield Fund                                                    12

    Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund                                       13

Risk Considerations                                                    14

Fees and Expenses                                                      16

Investment Advisor                                                     18

Prior Performance of Advisor                                           19

Pricing of Fund Shares                                                 22

Purchasing Shares                                                      23

Redeeming Shares                                                       25

Dividends and Distributions                                            26

Tax Considerations                                                     27

Financial Highlights                                                   28

Appendix A                                                             35

For More Information                                                   37

1
<PAGE>
 
    
Overview of the Funds     
 
The investment objective of each Fund is "fundamental" and may be changed only
with shareholder approval. Unless otherwise stated, each Fund's investment
policies are not fundamental and may be changed by the Funds' Trustees without a
shareholder vote. There can be no assurance that the Funds will be able to
attain their objectives.

Each Fund's primary investment practices and strategies are discussed in this
prospectus. Other practices, and their related risks, are described in the
Statement of Additional Information (SAI).
    
Each Fund's principal risks and strategies are provided within the Fund
descriptions that follow. Principal and secondary risks are discussed in detail
under "Risk Considerations" on page 14.     
    
The Brinson Funds strongly discourages market timers and short-term traders from
investing in the Funds. Shares of The Brinson Funds are not bank deposits and
are not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. The
value of your investment in a Fund will fluctuate, which means that you may lose
money.     

A Look At The Brinson Investment Process
    
At Brinson Partners, we employ a global asset allocation strategy, actively
diversifying investments within and across all major asset classes. Our
investment decisions are based on fundamental research, internally developed
valuation systems and seasoned judgment. Our philosophy is that the
determination of fundamental investment value within the context of a globally
integrated economy is the focus of all investment decisions. World economies and
financial markets are interactive. Thus, investment management, both within and
across global stock and bond markets, must be based upon comprehensive knowledge
and analyses of integrated investment fundamentals.

Our investment style has a single focus -- investment fundamentals determine and
describe future cash flows that, for us, define investment value. It is our
belief that periodically there are important exploitable discrepancies between
market price and investment value. The price/value discrepancies then become
the building blocks for portfolio construction. Portfolio structure is focused
on both risk and return considerations in the context of full long-term
investment cycles.

Another aspect of Brinson Partners' approach is the management of a portfolio of
securities against a selected benchmark. If we are indifferent among markets, we
tend toward the normal weight, as determined by the proportion of each market in
the benchmark. Decisions to deviate from the normal mix of assets are a blend of
rigorous quantitative analysis, an understanding of the fundamental
relationships among global markets and the expertise of our investment
professionals. All security selection decisions for a Fund are made in relation
to the benchmark, as described in each Fund's principal strategy section. The
benchmark for each Fund is an index consisting of securities that are
representative of that Fund's investments. From time to time, we may substitute
securities from an equivalent index that we believe more accurately reflects
changes in our expectations for various markets.

Equity Selections

Our equity portfolio construction process focuses on the four layers of equity
management that best explain portfolio performance: market sensitivity, common
factor exposures, industry weightings and individual stock selection. Securities
are chosen from an extensive list of companies in all major markets and
industries. Stock selection is based on fundamental analysis, often
incorporating quantitative models. With the exception of the U.S. Small
Capitalization Growth Fund, the security selection decision seeks out medium-to-
larger capitalization issues that are attractively priced relative to underlying
fundamental value. Research focuses on the ability of individual companies to
generate profits. We also analyze industry competitive strategy, structure and
global integration. We visit management to understand company goals and their
competitive strategies.

Fixed Income Selections

We use an internally developed valuation model for our Fixed Income portfolios,
which quantifies our return expectations for all of the bond markets. Inputs to
this model include forecasts of inflation, risk premiums and interest rates. Our
credit review process incorporates both a top-down strategy, which focuses on
how macroeconomic forces shape various industry outlooks, and a bottom-up
strategy which relies on a combination of qualitative and quantitative factors.
Our qualitative assessment focuses on management strength, market position,
competitive environment, and financial flexibility. Our quantitative assessment
focuses on historical operating results, calculation of various credit ratios
and an expected future outlook. With the exception of the High Yield Fund, the
Fixed Income Funds generally invest in all categories of investment grade fixed
income securities, but emphasize the higher quality securities in this spectrum
(those with a credit rating of AA and above). Our fixed income strategies
combine judgments about the absolute value of the fixed income universe and the
relative value of issuer sectors, maturity intervals, quality and coupon
segments and specific fixed income securities.     

                                                                               2
<PAGE>
 
Global Fund


Objective

The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income.

Principal Strategies
    
The Fund invests primarily in a portfolio of global equity and fixed income
securities. At least 65% of the Fund's assets are invested in securities of
issuers in at least three countries (which may include the United States).

All security selection decisions are made relative to the Global Securities
Markets Index (GSMI) Mutual Fund Index, the benchmark against which the Fund
measures its portfolio.
     
Although it may invest anywhere in the world, the Fund invests primarily in:

* Equity markets listed in the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) World
  Equity (Free) Index

* Fixed income markets listed in the Salomon Smith Barney World Government Bond
  Index

    
Other investments may include:

* Eurodollar securities, which are fixed income securities of a U.S. issuer or a
  foreign issuer that are issued outside the U.S.
* Other open-end investment companies advised by Brinson Partners
* Emerging markets securities


The Fund's Principal Risks Include:


* Market Risk
* Foreign Country and Currency Risks
* Geographic Concentration Risk
* Credit Risk

(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)

The Fund's portfolio turnover rate may exceed 100%.

GSMI Mutual Fund Index

An unmanaged index compiled by Brinson Partners, currently constructed as
follows:


40% Wilshire 5000 Index                      3% Merrill Lynch High Yield
22% MSCI World ex USA                           Master Index
       (Free) Index                          3% IFC Investable Index
21% Salomon Smith Barney                     2% JP Morgan EMBI+
       BIG Bond Index
9% Salomon non-U.S. Gov't.
       Bond Index
    
From time to time, such underlying indices may change.     
     
MSCI World Equity (Free) Index

A broad based securities index that represents the U.S. and global (ex-U.S.)
equity markets in terms of capitalization and performance. It is designed to
provide a representative total return for all major stock exchanges located
inside and outside the United States.

Salomon Smith Barney World Government Bond Index

A securities index that represents the broad global fixed income markets and
includes debt issues of U.S. and global (ex-U.S.) governments.

Fund Performance

The chart and table which follow give an indication of the Fund's risks and
performance. The chart shows you how the Fund's performance has varied from year
to year. The table compares the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad
measure of market performance. When you consider this information, please
remember that the Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of
how it will perform in the future.
    
Year-by-Year Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31)     
    
[BAR CHART GOES HERE]

1993:         11.15%
1994:         -1.89%
1995:         24.14%
1996:         14.10%
1997:         11.00%
1998:          8.32%
     
Best Quarter:       Q2 1997     8.24%
Worst Quarter:      Q3 1998    -5.32%


    
Average Annual Total Return (for the period ended 12/31/98)     

                                                           Performance
                                   1       5         10     Inception
                                  Year    Year      Year    (8/31/92)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
Global Fund                       8.32%  10.81%        --    10.83%

MSCI World Equity (Free) Index   24.62%  16.06%        --    16.02%

Salomon Smith Barney World       15.29%   7.85%        --     7.78%
  Gov't. Bond Index

GSMI Mutual Fund Index           16.45%  13.76%        --    13.64%


3

<PAGE>
 
Global Equity Fund


Objective

The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income.

Principal Strategies
    
The Fund invests primarily in a portfolio of global equity securities. At least
65% of the Fund's assets are invested in securities of issuers in at least three
countries (which may include the United States).     

Although it may invest anywhere in the world, the Fund invests primarily in
equity markets listed in the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) World
Equity (Free) Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its
portfolio.
    
Investments in equity securities may include:

* Common stock

* Preferred stock

* Convertible securities (those that are convertible into equity securities)

* Warrants


The Fund's Principal Risks Include:

* Market Risk

* Foreign Country and Currency Risks

(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)      

MSCI World Equity (Free) Index

A broad based securities index that represents the U.S. and global (ex-U.S.)
equity markets in terms of capitalization and performance. It is designed to
provide a representative total return for all major stock exchanges located
inside and outside the United States.

Fund Performance

The chart and table below give an indication of the Fund's risks and
performance. The chart shows you how the Fund's performance has varied from year
to year. The table compares the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad
measure of market performance. When you consider this information, please
remember that the Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of
how it will perform in the future.
    
Year-by-Year Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31)

       [BAR CHART GOES HERE]

1995:               21.93%
1996:               17.26%
1997:               10.72%
1998:               14.03%     

Best Quarter:       Q4 1998    14.25%
Worst Quarter:      Q3 1998    -9.97%


    
Average Annual Total Return (for the period ended 12/31/98)

                                                      Performance
                                   1      5      10    Inception
                                  Year   Year   Year   (1/31/94)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
Global Equity Fund               14.03%   --     --     11.75%

MSCI World Equity (Free) Index   24.62%   --     --     14.85%     

                                                                               4
<PAGE>
 
Global Bond Fund

Objective

The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income.

Principal Strategies
    
The Fund invests primarily in a portfolio of global debt securities that may
also provide the potential for capital appreciation. The Fund is a non-
diversified portfolio.     

Normally, at least 65% of the Fund's assets are invested in debt securities with
an initial maturity of more than one year of issuers in at least three countries
(which may include the United States).

Although it may invest anywhere in the world, the Fund invests primarily in
fixed income markets listed in the Salomon Smith Barney World Government Bond
Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its portfolio.
    
Investments in fixed income securities may include:

* Debt securities of the U.S. government, its agencies and instrumentalities
* Debt securities of U.S. corporations
* Zero coupon securities
* Mortgage-backed securities
* Asset-backed securities
* When-issued securities

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:

* Market Risk
* Credit Risk
* Interest Rate Risk
* Foreign Country and Currency Risks
* Diversification Risk

(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.) 

The Fund's portfolio turnover rate may exceed 100%.

Non-Diversified Portfolio

Invests in fewer securities, which may result in more potential volatility than
a diversified portfolio. Gains or losses on a single security or issuer within
the portfolio will, therefore, have a greater impact on a fund's net asset
value.

Salomon Smith Barney World Government Bond Index

A securities index that represents the broad global fixed income markets and
includes debt issues of U.S. and global (ex-U.S.) governments.     

Fund Performance 

The chart and table below give an indication of the Fund's risks and
performance. The chart shows you how the Fund's performance has varied from
year to year. The table compares the Fund's performance over time to that of
a broad measure of market performance. When you consider this information, 
please remember that the Fund's past performance is not necessarily an
indication of how it will perform in the future.
    
Year-by-Year Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31)

         [BAR CHART GOES HERE}

1994:               -3.49%
1995:               20.32%
1996:                9.30%
1997:                1.63%
1998:               11.98%     

Best Quarter:       Q4 1998     6.06%
Worst Quarter:      Q1 1998    -2.98%


    
Average Annual Total Return (for the period ended 12/31/98)

                                                      Performance
                                   1      5      10    Inception
                                  Year   Year   Year   (7/31/93)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
Global Bond Fund                 11.98%  7.63%   --      7.77%

Salomon Smith Barney             15.29%  7.85%   --      8.04%
  World Government Bond Index     

5
<PAGE>
 
U.S. Balanced Fund

Objective
The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income.
    
Principal Strategies
The Fund invests primarily in a wide range of equity, fixed income and money
market securities.

All selection decisions are made relative to the U.S. Balanced Mutual Fund
Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its portfolio.     

Investments in equity securities may include:
* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Securities convertible into equity securities
* Warrants

Investments in fixed income securities may include:
* Debt securities of the U.S. government, its agencies and instrumentalities
* Debt securities of U.S. corporations
* Zero coupon securities
* Mortgage-backed securities
* Asset-backed securities
* When-issued securities

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Market Risk
* Interest Rate Risk
    
(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)

The Fund's portfolio turnover rate may exceed 100%.

Fund Performance
The chart and table which follow give an indication of the Fund's risks and
performance. The chart shows you how the Fund's performance has varied from year
to year. The table compares the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad
measure of market performance. When you consider this information, please
remember that the Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of
how it will perform in the future.

U.S. Balanced Mutual Fund Index
Compiled by Brinson Partners, this index represents a fixed composite of 65%
Wilshire 5000 Equity Index and 35% Salomon Smith Barney Broad Investment Grade
(BIG) Bond Index.

From time to time, indices may change.     

Wilshire 5000 Equity Index
A broad weighted index that includes all U.S. common stocks. It is designed to
provide a representative indication of the capitalization and return for the
U.S. equity market.

Salomon Smith Barney
Broad Investment Grade (BIG) Bond Index
A broad-based index that includes U.S. bonds with over one year to maturity.

    
Year-by-Year Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31)
  [BAR GRAPH GOES HERE]

1995:               25.48%
1996:               11.32%
1997:               13.22%
1998:                9.92%      

Best Quarter:     Q2 1997     7.10%
Worst Quarter:    Q1 1997    -0.17%
    
Average Annual Total Return (for the period ended 12/31/98)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                              Performance
                                                                                    1        5           10    Inception
                                                                                   Year     Year        Year   (12/31/94)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                              <C>        <C>         <C>    <C>
U.S. Balanced Fund                                                                 9.92%     --          --       14.81%
Wilshire 5000 Index                                                               23.43%     --          --       27.95%
Salomon Smith Barney                                                               8.72%     --          --       10.00%
 (BIG) Index
U.S. Balanced Mutual                                                              18.85%     --          --       21.55%
 Fund Index
</TABLE>     

                                                                               6
<PAGE>
 
U.S. Equity Fund 

Objective
The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income, while controlling risk.

Principal Strategies
Normally, the Fund invests at least 65% of its assets in equity securities of
U.S. companies.
    
All selection decisions are made relative to the Wilshire 5000 Equity Index, the
benchmark against which the Fund measures its portfolio.     

Investments in equity securities may include:
* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Securities convertible into equity securities
* Warrants

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Market Risk
    
(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)      

Wilshire 5000 Equity Index

A broad weighted index that includes all U.S. common stocks. It is designed to
provide a representative indication of the capitalization and return for the
U.S. equity market.

Fund Performance
The chart and table below give an indication of the Fund's risks and
performance. The chart shows you how the Fund's performance has varied from year
to year. The table compares the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad
measure of market performance. When you consider this information, please
remember that the Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of
how it will perform in the future.
    
Year-by-Year Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31) 

     [Bar Graph Goes Here]

Year                      Return
- ----                      ------
1995                      40.58%
1996                      25.65%
1997                      24.76%
1998                      18.57%     
   
 
Best Quarter:                                   Q4 1998    16.35%
Worst Quarter:                                  Q3 1998   -10.35%

<TABLE>    
Average Annual Total Return (for the period ended 12/31/98)
                                                                               Performance
                                                    1         5          10     Inception
                                                   Year      Year       Year    (2/28/94)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                               <C>        <C>        <C>      <C>
U.S. Equity Fund                                  18.57%      --         --       21.53%
Wilshire 5000 Equity                              23.43%      --         --       22.40%
 Index
</TABLE>     

7
<PAGE>
 
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund

Objective
The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income, while controlling risk.

Principal Strategies
Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests at least 65% of its assets in
equity securities of U.S. large capitalization companies. The Fund is a non-
diversified portfolio.

All selection decisions are undertaken relative to the Standard & Poor's 500
Stock Index (S&P 500 Index), the benchmark against which the Fund measures its
portfolio.

Investments in equity securities may include:
* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Securities convertible into equity securities
* Warrants

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Market Risk
* Diversification Risk
    
(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)

Large Capitalization Companies
Those with market capitalizations in the upper 65% of the Wilshire 5000 Equity
Index. Companies whose capitalization falls below this level after purchase will
continue to be considered large capitalization companies.

Non-Diversified Portfolio
Invests in fewer securities, which may result in more potential volatility than
a diversified portfolio. Gains or losses on a single security or issuer within
the portfolio will, therefore, have a greater impact on a fund's net asset
value.     

S&P 500 Index
A broad capitalization market-weighted index that includes common stocks of the
leading companies in the top industries in the United States. It is designed to
provide a representative indication of the capitalization and return of the
large capitalization U.S. equity market.

Fund Performance
    
There is no performance data presented because the Fund has not been in
existence for a full calendar year. Inception date was 4/6/98.     

                                                                               8
<PAGE>
 
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund


Objective
The Fund seeks to provide long-term capital appreciation.

Principal Strategies
The Fund invests primarily in a portfolio of equity securities of large
capitalization growth companies. The Fund is a non-diversified portfolio.
    
All selection decisions are made relative to the S&P 500 Index, the benchmark
against which the Fund measures its portfolio.     

* Normally, at least 65% of the Fund's assets are invested in securities issued
  by such companies
* Up to 20% of the Fund's assets may be invested in foreign securities

Investments in equity securities may include:
* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Securities convertible into equity securities
* Warrants
    
The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Market Risk
* Diversification Risk

(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)

Large Capitalization Growth Companies
Companies with market capitalizations in the upper 65% of the Wilshire 5000
Equity Index. Companies whose capitalization falls below this level after
purchase will continue to be considered large capitalization growth companies.

Non-Diversified Portfolio
Invests in fewer securities, which may result in more potential volatility than
a diversified portfolio. Gains or losses on a single security or issuer within
the portfolio will, therefore, have a greater impact on a fund's net asset
value.

S&P 500 Index
A broad capitalization market-weighted index that includes common stocks of the
leading companies in the top industries in the United States. It is designed to
provide a representative indication of the capitalization and return of the
large capitalization U.S. equity market.     

Fund Performance
The chart shows the Fund's performance over the past year. The table compares
the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad measure of market
performance. When you consider this information, please remember that the Fund's
past performance is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the
future.
    
Total Return (for the period ended 12/31)
  [Bar Graph Here]

1998            24.90%     



Best Quarter:       Q4 1998    26.41%
Worst Quarter:      Q3 1998   -12.67%

    
Average Annual Total Return (for the period ended 12/31/98)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                Performance
                                                    1         5           10     Inception
                                                   Year      Year        Year    (10/31/97)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                               <C>         <C>         <C>      <C>
U.S. Large Capitalization                         24.90%      --          --       20.42%
 Growth Fund
S&P 500 Index                                     28.58%      --          --       30.84%
</TABLE>     

9
<PAGE>
 
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund 

Objective
The Fund seeks to provide long-term capital appreciation.

Principal Strategies
Under normal conditions, the Fund invests at least 65% of its assets in equity
securities of U.S. small capitalization companies.
    
All selection decisions are made relative to the Russell 2000 Index, the
benchmark against which the Fund measures its portfolio.     

The Fund may also invest in securities of emerging market growth companies. The
Fund may invest up to 20% of its assets in foreign securities.
    
Investments in equity securities may include:
* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Securities convertible into equity securities
* Warrants

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Small Company Risk
* Market Risk

(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)

The Fund's portfolio turnover rate may exceed 100%.

Small Capitalization Companies
Companies with market capitalizations in the lower 7 1/2% of the Wilshire 5000
Equity Index.     

Emerging Market Growth Companies
Small or medium sized companies that have passed their start-up phase and are
showing positive earnings, as well as potential for achieving significant profit
in a relatively short period of time.

Russell 2000 Index
A securities index that includes primarily U.S. common stocks. It is designed to
provide a representative indication of the capitalization and return for the
small capitalization U.S. equity market.
         
Fund Performance
The chart shows the Fund's performance over the past year. The table compares
the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad measure of market
performance. When you consider this information, please remember that the Fund's
past performance is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the
future.
    
Total Return (for the period ended 12/31)
    [Bar Graph Here]


1998            -6.70%     

 
Best Quarter:       Q4 1998    19.10%
Worst Quarter:      Q3 1998   -23.86%

    
Average Annual Total Return (for the period ended 12/31/98)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                  Performance
                                                    1          5         10        Inception
                                                   Year      Year       Year       (9/30/97)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                <C>        <C>        <C>         <C>
U.S. Small Capitalization                         -6.70%      --         --         -9.66%
 Growth Fund
Russell 2000 Index                                -2.55%      --         --         -4.67%

</TABLE>     


                                                                              10
<PAGE>
 
U.S. Bond Fund

Objective
The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income, while controlling risk.

Principal Strategies
The Fund invests primarily in a portfolio of investment-grade fixed income
securities that may also provide the potential for capital appreciation. As a
matter of fundamental policy, under normal circumstances, at least 65% of the
Fund's total assets are invested in U.S. debt securities with an initial
maturity of more than one year.
    
All selection decisions are made relative to the Salomon Smith Barney Broad
Investment Grade (BIG) Bond Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures
its portfolio.    

Investments in fixed income securities may include:
* Debt securities of the U.S. government, its agencies and instrumentalities
* Debt securities of U.S. corporations
* Zero coupon securities
* Mortgage-backed securities
* Asset-backed securities
* When-issued securities
    
The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Market Risk
* Interest Rate Risk
* Counterparty Risk

(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)

The Fund's portfolio turnover rate may exceed 100%.     

Investment-Grade
Fixed income securities possessing a minimum rating of:
* BBB by Standard & Poor's Ratings Group (S&P) or
* Baa by Moody's Investors Services, Inc. (Moody's) or,
* If unrated, are determined to be of comparable quality by the Advisor.

Salomon Smith Barney
Broad Investment Grade (BIG) Bond Index
A broad-based index that includes U.S. bonds with over one year to maturity.

Fund Performance
The chart and table below give an indication of the Fund's risks and
performance. The chart shows you how the Fund's performance has varied from year
to year. The table compares the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad
measure of market performance. When you consider this information, please
remember that the Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of
how it will perform in the future.
    
Year-by-Year Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31)     
        [Bar Graph Here]
    
1996                    3.53%
1997                    9.64%
1998                    8.37%     


 
Best Quarter:         Q4 1995    4.55%
Worst Quarter:        Q1 1996   -2.23%

    
Average Annual Total Return (fot the period ended 12/31/98)     
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                          Performance
                                               1       5          10       Inception
                                              Year    Year       Year      (8/31/95)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                          <C>       <C>        <C>       <C>
U.S. Bond Fund                               8.37%     --         --        8.12%
Salomon Smith Barney                         8.72%     --         --        8.21%
 BIG Bond Index
</TABLE> 

11
<PAGE>
 
High Yield Fund

Objectives
    
The Fund's primary objective is to provide high current income from a portfolio
of higher-yielding, lower-rated debt securities issued by domestic and foreign
companies. The Fund also seeks capital growth, when consistent with high current
income, by investing in securities, including common stocks and non-income
producing securities, which the Advisor expects will appreciate in value as a
result of declines in long-term interest rates or favorable developments
affecting the business or prospects of the issuer which may improve the issuer's
financial condition and credit rating.

Principal Strategies
The Fund invests primarily in a portfolio of U.S. higher-yielding, lower-rated
bonds:
* Under normal conditions, at least 65% of the Fund's assets are invested in
  fixed income securities that provide higher yields and are "lower-rated"
* Up to 25% of the Fund's assets may be invested in foreign securities     

All selection decisions are undertaken relative to the Merrill Lynch High Yield
Master Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its portfolio.

Investments in fixed income securities may include:
* Debt securities of U.S. corporations
* Zero coupon securities
* Mortgage-backed securities
* Asset-backed securities
* When-issued securities
* Eurodollar securities
    
The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* High Yield Risk
* Credit Risk
* Interest Rate Risk
* Market Risk
  (Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)
     
Lower-Rated Bonds
Bonds rated in the lower rating categories of Moody's and S&P, including
securities rated:
* Ba or lower by Moody's or
* BB or lower by S&P ("high yield securities").
Securities rated in these categories or lower are considered to be of poorer
quality and predominantly speculative.
    
Merrill Lynch High Yield Master Index
An index of publicly placed non-convertible, coupon-bearing U.S. domestic debt
with a term to maturity of at least one year.     

Fund Performance
The chart shows the Fund's performance over the past year. The table compares
the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad measure of market
performance. When you consider this information, please remember that the Fund's
past performance is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the
future.
    
Total Return (for the period ended 12/31)     
  [Bar Graph Here]
    
1998             7.75%     



Best Quarter:       Q4 1998    4.32%
Worst Quarter:      Q3 1998   -2.28%

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
    
Average Annual Total Return (for the period ended 12/31/98)     
                                                                               Performance
                                                     1       5         10       Inception
                                                    Year    Year       Year     (9/30/97)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                <C>       <C>        <C>       <C>
High Yield Fund                                    7.75%     --         --        8.12%
Merrill Lynch High Yield                           3.66%     --         --        5.04%
 Master Index
</TABLE>

                                                                              12
<PAGE>
 
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund

Objective
The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income, by investing primarily in the equity securities of global (ex-
U.S.) issuers.

Principal Strategies
Normally, the Fund invests at least 65% of its assets in equity securities of
issuers in at least three countries other than the United States.

Although it may invest anywhere in the world, the Fund invests primarily in the
equity markets listed in the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) World
ex USA (Free) Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its
portfolio.
    
Investments in equity securities may include:
* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Debt securities convertible into or exchangeable for common stock
* Warrants or rights     

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Foreign Country and Currency Risks
* Market Risk
    
(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section)     
MSCI World ex USA (Free) Index
An unmanaged, market driven broad based securities index which includes global
(ex-U.S.) equity markets in terms of capitalization and performance.

Fund Performance
The chart and table below give an indication of the Fund's risks and
performance. The chart shows you how the Fund's performance has varied from year
to year. The table compares the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad
measure of market performance. When you consider this information, please
remember that the Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of
how it will perform in the future.
    
Year-by-Year Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31)     
      [Bar Graph Here]
    
1994               0.94%
1995              15.55%
1996              12.75%
1997               5.74%
1998              14.39%     


Best Quarter:      Q4 1998           17.15%
Worst Quarter:     Q3 1998          -13.66%

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

Average Annual Total Return (for the period ended 12/31/98)
                                                                          Performance
                                                    1      5         10    Inception
                                                 Year     Year      Year   (8/31/93)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                             <C>    <C>         <C>         <C>
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity                         14.39%    9.72%      --     8.37%
 Fund
MSCI World ex USA                               18.67%    9.27%      --     8.44%
 (Free) Index
</TABLE>

13
<PAGE>
 
Risk Considerations

All Fund investments are subject to risk and may decline in value. Each Fund's
exposure depends upon its specific investment practices. The amount and types of
risk vary depending on:
* The investment objective
* The Fund's ability to achieve its objectives
* The markets in which the Fund invests
* The investments the Fund makes in those markets
* Prevailing economic conditions over the period of
  an investment

Please note that there are other circumstances that could adversely affect your
investment and potentially prevent a Fund from achieving its objectives.

Counterparty Risk

The risk that when a Fund engages in repurchase, reverse repurchase, derivative,
when-issued, forward commitment, delayed settlement and securities lending
transactions with another party, it relies on the other party to consummate the
transaction and is subject to the risk of default by the other party. Failure of
the other party to complete the transaction may cause the Fund to incur a loss
or to miss an opportunity to obtain a price believed to be advantageous.

Credit Risk

The risk that the issuer of a security, or the counterparty to a contract, will
default or otherwise be unable to honor a financial obligation. Debt securities
rated below investment-grade are especially susceptible to this risk.
    
Derivative Risk     

The risk that downward price changes in a security may result in a loss greater
than a Fund's investment in the security. This risk exists through the use of
certain securities or techniques that tend to magnify changes in an index or
market.

Diversification Risk

The risk that a non-diversified Fund will be more volatile than a diversified
Fund because it invests its assets in a smaller number of issuers. The gains or
losses on a single security or issuer will, therefore, have a greater impact on
the non-diversified Fund's net asset value.

Foreign Country and Currency Risks

The risk that prices of a Fund's investments in foreign securities may go down
because of unfavorable foreign government actions, political instability or the
absence of accurate information about foreign issuers. Also, a decline in the
value of foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar will reduce the value of
securities denominated in those currencies. Foreign securities are sometimes
less liquid and harder to value than securities of U.S. issuers. These risks are
more severe for securities of issuers in emerging market countries.
    
The World Bank and other international agencies consider a country to be an
"emerging markets" country on the basis of such factors as trade initiatives,
per capita income and level of industrialization. Emerging market countries
generally include every nation in the world except the U.S., Canada, Japan,
Australia, New Zealand and most nations located in Western Europe.     

On January 1, 1999, the European Monetary Union (the "EMU") introduced a new
single currency, the Euro, which will replace the national currencies of
participating member nations. If a Fund holds investments in nations with
currencies replaced by the Euro, the investment process, including trading,
foreign exchange, payments, settlements, cash accounts, custody and accounting,
will be impacted. Although it is not possible to fully predict the impact of the
Euro on a Fund, the transition and the elimination of currency risk among
nations participating in the EMU may change the economic environment and
behavior of investors, particularly in European markets.
    
Geographic Concentration Risk

The risk that if a Fund has most of its investments in a single country or
region, its portfolio will be more susceptible to factors adversely affecting
issuers located in that country or region than would a more geographically 
diversified portfolio of securities.

High Yield Risk

The risk that the issuer of bonds with ratings of BB (S&P) or Ba (Moody's) or
below will default or otherwise be unable to honor a financial obligation. These
securities are considered to be of poor standing and are predominantly
speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay
principal in accordance with the terms of the obligations and involve major risk
exposure. Bonds in this category may also be called "high yield bonds" or "junk
bonds."     

                                                                              14
<PAGE>
 
Risk Considerations (cont.)

Interest Rate Risk

The risk that changing interest rates may adversely affect the value of an
investment. With fixed-rate securities, an increase in prevailing interest rates
typically causes the value of a Fund's securities to fall, while a decline in
prevailing interest rates may produce an increase in the market value of the
securities. Changes in interest rates will affect the value of longer-term fixed
income securities more than shorter-term securities and lower quality securities
more than higher quality securities.

Market Risk

The risk that the market value of a Fund's investments will fluctuate as the
stock and bond markets fluctuate. Market risk may affect a single issuer,
industry or section of the economy or it may affect the market as a whole.

Prepayment Risk

The risk that issuers will prepay fixed rate obligations when interest rates
fall, forcing the Fund to re-invest in obligations with lower interest rates
than the original obligations.

Small Company Risk

The risk that investments in smaller companies may be more volatile than
investments in larger companies, as smaller companies generally experience
higher growth and failure rates. The trading volume of smaller company
securities is normally lower than that of larger companies. Changes in the
demand for the securities of smaller companies generally has a disproportionate
effect on their market price, tending to make prices rise more in response to
buying demand and fall more in response to selling pressure.
    
The chart below illustrates both primary and secondary risks of investing in the
Funds.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   Foreign  Geographic
                        Counter-                        Diversifi- Country & Concen-    High   Interest           Pre-     Small
                         party     Credit  Derivative    cation    Currency  tration    Yield    Rate    Market  payment  Company
<S>                       <C>       <C>       <C>         <C>         <C>      <C>       <C>     <C>      <C>     <C>       <C>
Global Fund                *         *         *                       *        *         *       *        *        *        *

Global
Equity Fund                *                   *                       *        *                          *

Global
Bond Fund                  *         *         *            *          *        *                 *        *        *

U.S.
Balanced Fund              *         *         *                                                  *        *        *

U.S.
Equity Fund                *                   *                                                           *

U.S. Large
Capitalization             *                   *            *          *                                   *
Equity Fund

U.S. Large
Capitalization             *                   *            *          *                                   *
Growth Fund

U.S. Small
Capitalization             *                   *                       *        *                          *                 *
Growth Fund

U.S.
Bond Fund                  *         *         *                                                  *        *        *

High
Yield Fund                 *         *         *                       *        *         *       *        *        *

Global (ex-U.S.)
Equity Fund                *                   *                       *        *                          *
</TABLE>     


15
<PAGE>
 
Fees and Expenses

The tables below describe the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and
hold shares of the Brinson Fund--Class I shares.

Shareholder Transaction Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
 
Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases    None

Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that are deducted from Fund assets, expressed as a % of average net
assets)

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                                                                             Amount of Fee   Total Fund Operating
                                                                                             Waiver and/or    Expenses (after fee
                                                           Other        Gross Operating         Expense      waiver and/or expense
(6/30/98)                        Management Fees/1/     Expenses/1/       Expenses/1/       Reimbursement/1/   reimbursement)/1/
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                            <C>                    <C>             <C>                   <C>              <C>
Global                                 0.80%              0.14%              0.94%               0.00%                0.94%

Global Equity                          0.80%              0.22%              1.02%               0.02%                1.00%

Global Bond                            0.75%              0.21%              0.96%               0.06%                0.90%

U.S. Balanced                          0.70%              0.11%              0.81%               0.01%                0.80%

U.S. Equity                            0.70%              0.10%              0.80%               0.00%                0.80%

U.S. Large Capitalization
 Equity/2/                             0.70%              0.89%              1.59%               0.79%                0.80%

U.S. Bond                              0.50%              0.34%              0.84%               0.24%                0.60%

Global (ex-U.S.) Equity                0.80%              0.20%              1.00%               0.00%                1.00%

(12/31/98)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Large Capitalization
 Growth/3/                             0.70%              0.10%              0.80%               0.00%                0.80%

U.S. Small Capitalization
 Growth/3/                             1.00%              0.15%              1.15%               0.00%                1.15%

High Yield/3/                          0.60%              0.10%              0.70%               0.00%                0.70%
</TABLE>

(1) The Advisor has irrevocably agreed to permanently waive its fees and
reimburse certain expenses so that total operating expenses of the Funds do not
exceed the percentages noted in the chart on page 18.

(2) The fees and expenses for the U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund are
based on the period from April 6, 1998 (commencement of operations) to June 30,
1998.

(3) The fees and expenses of the U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, the U.S.
Small Capitalization Growth Fund and High Yield Fund are based on fees and
expenses incurred by three predecessor series, prior to the series'
reorganizations into the Funds (as described in the "Investment Advisor"
section), and have been recalculated and re-stated to take into account the fees
and expenses that the Funds will incur as series of the Trust.    

                                                                              16
<PAGE>
 
Fees and Expenses (cont.)

Expense Example

This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the
Brinson Fund--Class I shares to the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The
example assumes that you invest $10,000 in a Fund for the time periods indicated
and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also
assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's
operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs and the return on
your investment may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs
would be:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                         1 year  3 years  5 years  10 years
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                      <C>     <C>      <C>      <C>
Global Fund                                $ 96     $300     $520    $1,155

Global Equity Fund                         $102     $318     $552    $1,225

Global Bond Fund                           $ 92     $287     $498    $1,108

U.S. Balanced Fund                         $ 82     $255     $444    $  990

U.S. Equity Fund                           $ 82     $255     $444    $  990

U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund      $ 82     $255     $444    $  990

U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund      $ 82     $255     $444    $  990

U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund      $117     $365     $633    $1,398

U.S. Bond Fund                             $ 61     $192     $335    $  750

High Yield Fund                            $ 72     $224     $390    $  871

Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund               $102     $318     $552    $1,225
</TABLE>

17
<PAGE>
 
Brinson Partners, Inc.
209 South LaSalle Street
Chicago, Ill 60604-1295


Investment Advisor
    
Brinson Partners Inc., an investment management firm primarily for institutional
accounts, is the investment advisor for the Brinson Funds, as well as for nine
other investment companies. Brinson Partners Inc. and its predecessor entities
have operated under the same investment philosophy and senior management for
over 18 years. Offices are located worldwide:     

Bahrain      Geneva     New York        Sydney
Basel        Hong Kong  Paris           Tokyo 
Chicago      London     Rio de Janeiro  Zurich 
Frankfurt    Melbourne  Singapore

As of December 31, 1998, Brinson Partners Inc. had total assets under management
of approximately $297 billion. Brinson Partners is a wholly-owned subsidiary of
UBS AG (formed by the merger of Union Bank of Switzerland and Swiss Bank
Corporation).

Portfolio Management

Investment decisions for the Funds are made by an investment management team at
Brinson Partners. No member of the investment management team is primarily
responsible for making recommendations for portfolio purchases.

Advisory Fees

The following chart shows the investment advisory fees payable to Brinson
Partners Inc., before fee waivers, by each Fund during its last fiscal year.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Management Fees Paid
(expressed as a percentage of average net assets)
<S>                                                  <C>
Global Fund                                          0.80%
Global Equity Fund                                   0.80
Global Bond Fund                                     0.75
U.S. Balanced Fund                                   0.70
U.S. Equity Fund                                     0.70
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund                0.70
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund/1/             0.70
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund/1/             1.00
U.S. Bond Fund                                       0.50
High Yield Fund/1/                                   0.60
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund                         0.80
</TABLE>
    
/1/ The U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth
Fund and High Yield Fund were created as the result of a reorganization of three
corresponding funds of UBS Private Investor Funds, Inc. into these funds on
December 18, 1998. The same individuals that managed the reorganized funds are
now managing the newly created Funds.     

The Advisor has irrevocably agreed to waive its fees and reimburse certain
expenses so that the total operating expenses of the Brinson Fund--Class I
shares do not exceed the following amounts for each of the respective Funds:

<TABLE>    
<S>                                       <C>
Global Fund                               1.10%
Global Equity Fund                        1.00
Global Bond Fund                          0.90
U.S. Balanced Fund                        0.80
U.S. Equity Fund                          0.80
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund     0.80
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund/1/  0.80
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund/1/  1.15
U.S. Bond Fund                            0.60
High Yield Fund/1/                        0.70
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund              1.00
</TABLE>      

Year 2000 Issue

Some computer systems will be unable to recognize dates after December 31, 1999.
The Funds' securities trades, pricing and accounting services and other
operations could be adversely affected by the defects in computer systems
utilized by Brinson Partners, or the custodian and transfer agent. Brinson
Partners is taking steps that it believes are reasonably designed to identify
any potential problems with the computer systems it uses. The Funds' other
service providers have told Brinson Partners that they are taking comparable
steps. Brinson Partners does not believe that the Year 2000 issue will have a
material adverse effect on its business operations or results of operations.

The cost of addressing the Year 2000 issue, if substantial, could adversely
affect companies and governments that issue securities held by one or more
Funds. This is particularly true in emerging markets, which have been reported
not to be as prepared as domestic companies and markets for Year 2000. The Year
2000 issue also could cause improperly functioning trading systems in emerging
markets which could cause settlement and liquidity problems. At this point, the
Funds cannot predict the impact on their portfolios of Year 2000 problems in
such markets.

Portfolio Turnover
    
The Funds generally intend to purchase securities for long-term investment.
Portfolio turnover rates are not a factor in making buy and sell decisions.
Increased portfolio turnover may result in higher costs for brokerage
commissions, dealer mark-ups and other transaction costs. It may also result in
taxable capital gains. Higher costs associated with increased portfolio turnover
may offset gains in the Fund's performance.     

                                                                              18
<PAGE>
 
Prior Performance of Advisor
    
The following table sets forth the Advisor's composite performance data relating
to the historical performance of institutional private accounts managed by the
Advisor that have investment objectives, policies, strategies and risks
substantially similar to those of the various Funds. The data is provided to
illustrate the past performance of the Advisor in managing investment portfolios
which are substantially similar to each of the applicable Funds as measured
against specified market indices. This performance presentation includes certain
composites of Brinson Partners, Inc. and certain composites of UBS Brinson New
York (formerly UBS Asset Management New York). These two firms are now part of
one organization as a result of a business combination on June 30, 1998. The
portfolio management process and performance measurement are distinct for the
two entities through June 30, 1998. The performance data of each of the Brinson
Funds is also included in the table.

UBS Brinson (the Firm) has prepared and presented this report in compliance with
the Performance Presentation Standards of the Association for Investment
Management and Research (AIMR-PPS(TM)). AIMR has not been involved with the
preparation or review of this report. A list of all Firm composites is available
upon request. The Firm is defined as all portfolios managed and administered
from UBS Brinson's Chicago and New York offices. The effective date of Firm
compliance is January 1, 1993; certain terminated accounts are not included
prior to that date.

Composites consisting of more than one portfolio are asset weighted by 
beginning-of-period asset values. Investment results for both the Funds and the
composites are time-weighted performance calculations representing total return,
and are calculated in a manner consistent with the U.S. Securities and Exchange
Commission's ("SEC") method of calculating returns. Returns are calculated using
geometric linking of monthly returns. Composites are valued at least monthly,
taking into account cash flows. All realized and unrealized capital gains and
losses, as well as all dividends and interest from investments and cash
balances, are included. Investment transactions are accounted for on a trade
date basis with the exception of selected equity accounts. Prior to January
1996, settlement date accounting was used in these accounts, with trade date
accrual used subsequent to that date. Total returns exclude the impact of
advisor fees, custodial fees, and any other administrative expenses and the
impact of any income taxes an investor might have incurred as a result of
taxable ordinary income and capital gains realized by the account. Investment
returns will be reduced by fees and other expenses incurred. Investment advisory
fees are described in Part II of Form ADV. Upon request, we will furnish
information showing the effect an investment advisory fee would have had on
performance; due to the graduated nature of fees, as account size increases, the
annual percentage fee will decline.

Results include all actual fee-paying, discretionary client portfolios including
those clients no longer with the Firm. Portfolios are included in the composite
beginning with the first full month of performance to the present or to the
cessation of the client's relationship with the Firm. No alterations of
composites as presented here have occurred due to changes in personnel. Accounts
of all sizes are included in composite performance and no minimum account
relationship size was set for inclusion in the composites as the account size
does not impact portfolio management style. The composites are not subject to
certain expenses, investment limitations, diversification requirements and
restrictions to which the Funds are subject and which are imposed by the
Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "Act") and the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended. Had such expenses, limitations, requirements and restrictions
been applicable to the composites, the performance results would have been
adversely affected. The composites' performance presented does not represent the
historical performance of the Funds and should not be interpreted as indicative
of future performance of the Funds.     

19
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>    
<CAPTION> 
                                                                       Annualized
                                                    One          Two     Three     Five        Ten
                                                    Year        Years    Years     Years      Years
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                             <C>             <C>      <C>       <C>         <C>
Brinson Global Fund Class I/1/                       8.32        9.65    11.11     10.81        N/A
Global Securities Portfolio/2/                       8.68        9.79    11.61     11.32      11.97
MSCI World Equity (Free) Index/3,4/                 24.62       20.19    18.06     16.06      11.11
Salomon World Govt. Bond Index/3/                   15.29        7.50     6.20      7.85       8.97
GSMI Mutual Fund Index/3/                           16.45       15.37    14.42     13.76      12.51
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson Global Equity Fund Class I/1/               14.03       12.36    13.96       N/A        N/A
Global Equity with Cash Portfolio/2/                13.79       13.32    14.64     12.84      12.11
MSCI World Equity (Free) Index/3,4/                 24.62       20.19    18.06     16.06      11.11
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson Global Bond Fund Class I/1/                 11.98        6.68     7.54      7.63        N/A
Global Bond Portfolio/2/                            13.29        7.64     8.19      7.91       9.62
Salomon World Govt. Bond Index/3/                   15.29        7.50     6.20      7.85       8.97
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson U.S. Balanced Fund Class I/1/                9.92       11.55    11.47       N/A        N/A
U.S. Balanced Portfolio/2/                           8.38       11.25    11.62     11.77      12.44
U.S. Balanced Mutual Fund Index/3/                  18.85       21.15    19.03     16.75      15.01
Wilshire 5000 Index/3/                              23.43       27.30    25.24     21.78      18.11
Salomon Smith Barney BIG Index/3/                    8.72        9.17     7.29      7.30       9.31
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson U.S. Equity Fund Class I/1/                 18.57       21.63    22.93       N/A        N/A
U.S. Equity Fund/2/                                 16.91       21.42    23.02     21.49      19.28
Wilshire 5000 Index/3/                              23.43       27.30    25.24     21.78      18.11
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson U.S. Large Capitalization
 Equity Fund Class I/1,6/                           5.87         N/A      N/A       N/A        N/A
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Portfolio/2/       21.45       24.28    25.38     23.80      20.61
S&P 500 Index/3/                                    28.58       30.95    28.23     24.06      19.21
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson U.S. Large Capitalization
 Growth Fund Class I/1,6/                           24.90         N/A      N/A       N/A        N/A
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Portfolio/2,5/     26.64       27.06    24.59     19.63      18.08
S&P 500 Index/3/                                    28.58       30.95    28.23     24.06      19.21
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson U.S. Small Capitalization
 Growth Fund Class I/1,6/                           -6.70         N/A      N/A       N/A        N/A
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Portfolio/2,5/    -11.01        4.79     9.17      8.04      13.38
Russell 2000 Index/3/                               -2.55        9.20    11.58     11.87      12.92
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson U.S. Bond Fund Class/1/                      8.37        9.00     7.14       N/A        N/A
U.S. Bond Portfolio/2/                               7.45        8.61     7.06      7.14       9.33
Salomon Smith Barney BIG Index/3/                    8.72        9.17     7.29      7.30       9.31
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson High Yield Fund Class I/1,6/                 7.75         N/A      N/A       N/A        N/A
High Yield Portfolio/2/                             -6.32        2.75     6.39      5.93       9.60
Merrill Lynch High Yield Master Index/3/             3.66        8.15     9.11      9.01      11.08
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson Global (ex-U.S.)
 Equity Fund Class I/1/                             14.39        9.98    10.88      9.72        N/A
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Portfolio/2/                15.61       10.95    11.75     10.77       9.83
MSCI World ex USA (Free) Index (Unhedged)/3,4/      18.67       10.06     9.06      9.27       5.71
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>     

                                                                             20
<PAGE>
 
Prior Performance of Advisor (cont.)
    
FOOTNOTES:
(1)  Total returns include reinvestment of all capital gain and income
distributions. Inception dates for each Fund are as follows: Brinson Global Fund
Class I, 8/31/92, Brinson Global Equity Fund Class I, 1/31/94, Brinson Global
Bond Fund Class I, 7/31/93, Brinson U.S. Balanced Fund Class I, 12/31/94,
Brinson U.S. Equity Fund Class I, 2/28/94, Brinson U.S. Large Capitalization
Equity Fund Class I, 4/30/98, Brinson U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund
Class I, 9/30/97, Brinson U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund Class I,
9/30/97, Brinson U.S. Bond Fund Class I, 8/31/95, Brinson High Yield Fund Class
I, 9/30/97, and Brinson Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund Class I, 8/31/93.

(2)  Performance figures for the Advisor composites are net of advisory fees and
all expenses. Advisory fees are determined by applying the highest fee schedule
to the Advisor's CITs as of December 31, 1998. Performance figures for the
composites gross of fees are:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              Annualized
                                               -----------------------------------------
                                               One     Two       Three      Five    Ten
                                               Year   Years      Years     Years   Years
                                               -----------------------------------------
<S>                                           <C>     <C>     <C>          <C>     <C>
Global Securities Portfolio                    9.53%  10.64%     12.46%    12.17%  12.82%
Global Equity with Cash Portfolio             14.64   14.17      15.49     13.69   12.96
Global Bond Portfolio                         13.89    8.06       8.79      8.51   10.22
U.S. Balanced Portfolio                        9.13   12.00      12.37     12.52   13.19
U.S. Equity Portfolio                         17.66   22.17      23.77     22.24   20.03
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Portfolio    22.20   25.03      26.13     24.55   21.36
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Portfolio    28.14   27.81      26.09     21.13   19.58
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Portfolio    -9.01    5.79      11.17     10.04   15.38
U.S. Bond Portfolio                            7.85    9.01       7.46      7.54    9.73
High Yield Portfolio                          -5.67    3.40       7.04      6.58   10.25
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Portfolio             16.46   11.80      12.60     11.62   10.68
</TABLE>

(3)  GSMI Mutual Fund Index, an unmanaged index compiled by the Advisor,
currently constructed as follows: 40% Wilshire 5000 Index; 22% MSCI World ex USA
(Free) Index; 21% Salomon Smith Barney BIG Bond Index; 9% Salomon Non-U.S.
Government Bond Index (unhedged); 2% JP Morgan EMBI+; 3% IFC Investable Index;
and 3% Merrill Lynch High Yield Master Index. The composition of the Index has
evolved over time and may change in the future. MSCI World Equity (Free) Index
is an unmanaged market driven broad based index which includes U.S. and non-U.S.
equity markets in terms of capitalization and performance. Salomon World
Government Bond Index is an unmanaged market driven index which measures the
broad global fixed income markets invested in debt issues of U.S. and non-U.S.
governments, governmental entities and supranationals. U.S. Balanced Mutual Fund
Index, an unmanaged index compiled by the Advisor, constructed as follows: 65%
Wilshire 5000 Index and 35% Salomon Smith Barney Broad Investment Grade (BIG)
Bond Index. Wilshire 5000 Index is an unmanaged broad weighted index which
includes all U.S. common stocks. S&P 500 Index is an unmanaged index containing
common stocks of 500 industrial, transportation, utility and financial
companies, regarded as generally representative of the U.S. stock market.
Russell 2000 Index is an unmanaged index that includes 2,000 U.S. small
capitalization stocks and is a common measure of the performance of the small
capitalization segment of the U.S. stock market. Merrill Lynch High Yield Master
Index consists of issues which must be in the form of publicly placed
nonconvertible, coupon-bearing U.S. domestic debt and must carry a term to
maturity of at least one year. Issues must be less than investment grade but not
in default, and the index excludes floating rate debt, equipment trust
certificates, and Title 11 securities. Salomon Smith Barney Broad Investment
Grade (BIG) Bond Index is an unmanaged market driven broad based index which
includes U.S bonds with over one year to maturity. MSCI World ex USA (Free)
Index is an unmanaged market driven broad based index which includes global (ex-
U.S.) equity markets in terms of capitalization and performance.

(4)  Beginning 1/31/88 these indices represent securities which are freely
traded on equity markets.

(5)  Prior to January 1996, settlement date accounting was used in equity
accounts, with trade date accrual used subsequent to that date.

(6)  Non-annualized return since performance inception date for the following
Funds: Brinson U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund Class I: 4/30/98, UBS Large
Capitalization Growth Fund: 10/14/97, UBS Small Capitalization Growth Fund: 
9/30/97 and UBS High Yield Fund: 9/30/97.

(7)  For additional disclosure, see Appendix A on page 35 of this prospectus.
     

21
<PAGE>
 
Pricing of Fund Shares

The Brinson Fund--Class I shares are bought and sold at net asset value (NAV),
which is calculated as of the close of business on each day that the New York
Stock Exchange (NYSE) is open (currently 4:00 p.m. Eastern time). A Fund's
securities are valued based on the last sale price or, where market quotations
are not readily available, are based on fair value as determined in good faith
by the Trust's board of trustees.

Foreign securities are valued at their closing prices on the exchange on which
they are traded. The resulting values are converted from the local currency into
U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. Foreign securities may trade in their
local markets on weekends or other days when a Fund does not price its shares.
Therefore, the NAV of Funds holding foreign securities may change on days when
shareholders will not be able to buy or sell their Fund shares.

How the Funds Calculate NAV

The NAV of a class of shares of a Fund is determined by dividing the value of
the securities and other assets, less liabilities, allocated to the class by the
number of outstanding shares of the class.

Purchase and redemption orders for shares received by the close of regular
trading (currently 4:00 p.m., Eastern time) are priced according to the NAV
determined on that day. Purchase and redemption orders received after the close
of trading are priced according to the next determined price per share. The
Funds reserve the right to change the time at which purchases and redemptions
are priced if the NYSE closes at a time other than 4:00 p.m. Eastern time or if
an emergency exists.

                                                                              22
<PAGE>
 
Purchasing Shares

The minimum initial investment for Fund shares is $1,000,000. Subsequent
investments for the Fund shares will be accepted in minimum amounts of $2,500.
The minimum purchase requirement for IRAs is $2,000. The Funds reserve the right
to vary the investment minimums and subsequent minimums for additional
investments at any time. In addition, Brinson Partners may waive the minimum
initial investment requirement for any investor at its discretion. Purchases may
be made in one of the following ways:

If you have any questions or need further information, call 1-800-448-2430.
                                 
By Telephone                     

Call 1-800-448-2430 to arrange for a telephone transaction.

If you want to make future transactions (e.g., purchase additional shares,
redeem or exchange shares) by telephone, you will need to elect this option
either on the initial application or subsequently in writing.

Complete and sign an application for Class I shares.

By Mail 

Make your check payable to "Brinson __________ Fund--Class I."

If you are adding to your existing account, enclose the remittance portion of
your account statement and include the amount of investment, account name and
number.
    
Mail your application and/or check to:
The Brinson Funds c/o Transfer Agent
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798     

By Wire

If you are opening a new account, call the Funds at 1-800-448-2430 to arrange
for a wire transaction.

Then wire federal funds to:

The Chase Manhattan Bank
ABA#021000021
DDA#9102-783504
FBO: "Brinson ________ Fund--Class I" and include your name and new account
number.

Complete and sign an application for Class I shares and mail immediately
following the initial wire transaction to:
    
The Brinson Funds c/o Transfer Agent
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798     

If you are adding to your existing account, you do not need to call the Funds to
arrange for a wire transaction, but be sure to include your name and account
number.

Through Financial Institutions/Professionals
    
In some cases, the Funds have entered into one or more Sales Agreements with
brokers, dealers or financial institutions (banks and bank trust departments)
(each an "Authorized Dealer"). The Authorized Dealer, or intermediaries
designated by the Authorized Dealer (a "Sub-designee"), may accept purchase and
redemption orders that are in "good form" on behalf of the Funds. A Fund will be
deemed to have received a purchase or redemption order when the Authorized
Dealer or Sub-designee accepts the order. Such orders will be priced at the
Fund's net asset value next computed after such order is accepted. These
Authorized Dealers may charge the investor a transaction fee or other fee for
their services at the time of purchase. These fees would not be otherwise
charged if you purchase shares directly from the Funds. It is the responsibility
of such broker-dealers or service organizations to promptly forward purchase
orders with payments to the Funds.     

Telephone orders are accepted from broker-dealers or service organizations if
they have been previously approved by the Funds.

Brinson Partners, or its affiliates, may, from its own resources, compensate
broker-dealers or other financial intermediaries ("Service Providers") for
services performed with respect to a Fund's Class I shares. These services may
include marketing, shareholder servicing, recordkeeping and/or other services.
Payments made for any of these purposes may be made from Brinson Partners'
revenues, its profits or any other sources available. When these service
arrangements are in effect, they are generally made available to all qualified
Service Providers.

23
<PAGE>
 
The Funds will not accept a check endorsed over by a third party. The Funds
reserve the right to reject any purchase order and to suspend the offering of
shares of the Brinson Funds. This includes purchase orders that in the
reasonable belief of the Funds, have been made by market timers or short-term
traders.

Exchanging Shares

You can exchange your Class I shares for Class I shares of other Funds.
Exchanges will not be permitted between the Brinson Fund--Class I shares and
either the UBS Investment Funds Class of shares or the Brinson Fund--Class N
shares.

Under certain circumstances, the Funds may:
* Limit the number of exchanges between Funds
* Reject a telephone exchange order
* Modify or discontinue the exchange privilege upon
  60 days' written notice

Exchanged Funds are subject to the minimum initial investment requirement. The
procedures that apply to redeeming shares also apply to exchanging shares.
    
An exchange is the sale of shares of one Fund and purchase of shares of another
and could result in taxable gain or loss in a non-tax sheltered account.     

Account Options

The following account options are available. There are no charges for the
programs noted below and you may change or terminate these plans at any time by
written notice to the Funds. For information about participating in these
account options, call the transfer agent at 1-800-448-2430.

Automatic Investment Plan          

Through this option, money can be electronically deducted from your checking,
savings or bank money market accounts and invested in the Funds each month or
quarter.

Complete the Automatic Investment Plan Application, which is available upon
request by calling 1-800-448-2430, and mail it to the address indicated.

The initial $1,000,000 minimum investment still applies, however, subsequent
investments can be as little as $500.

The Funds may alter or terminate the Automatic Investment Plan at any time.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan

If you have a minimum of $1,000,000 in your account, you may direct the transfer
agent to make payments to you (or anyone you designate) monthly, quarterly or
semi-annually.

Withdrawals are drawn from share redemptions and must be a minimum of $500 per
payment. Under the Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP), you must elect to have
dividends and distributions automatically reinvested in additional Fund shares.

The Funds may terminate any SWP if the value of the account falls below $50,000
due to share redemptions or an exchange of shares for shares of another Class I
Fund.

Individual Retirement Account

You may open an IRA, a tax-deferred retirement account, with the Funds if you
are under age 70-1/2. The minimum purchase requirement for an IRA is $2,000.

                                                                              24
<PAGE>
 
Redeeming Shares

Your shares will be redeemed at the NAV next calculated after your order is
received by the Funds' transfer agent in good order. Your order will be
processed promptly and you will generally receive the proceeds within five
business days.

Please note that proceeds for redemption requests made shortly after a recent
purchase by check will be distributed once the check clears, which may take up
to 15 days.

The Funds reserve the right to pay redemptions "in kind" (i.e., payment in
securities rather than in cash) if the amount you are redeeming is large enough
to affect a Fund's operations (for example, if it represents more than $250,000
or 1% of the Fund's assets). In these cases, you might incur brokerage costs
converting the securities to cash.

You may redeem some or all of your shares any day the NYSE is open for business
by doing one of the following (if you have any questions, call the transfer
agent at 1-800-448-2430).

By Telephone

If you have chosen the telephone redemption privilege on the initial application
or subsequently arranged in writing, you may call 1-800-448-2430 to redeem
shares.

By Mail  
    
Shareholders may sell shares by making a written request to: The Brinson Funds
c/o Transfer Agent, P.O. Box 2798, Boston, MA 02208-2798.     

Include signatures of all persons required to sign for transactions, exactly as
their name appears on the account application.

To protect your account from fraud, the Funds may require a signature guarantee
for certain redemptions (see "Signature Guarantees" below).

By Bank Wire  

If you have chosen the wire redemption privilege on the initial application or
subsequently arranged in writing, you may request the Funds to wire your
proceeds to a predesignated bank account.

Call 1-800-448-2430.

Wire redemption requests must be received by the transfer agent by 4:00 p.m.
Eastern time for money to be wired the next business day.

Through Financial Institutionals/Professionals

Contact your financial institution or professional for more information.

Important note: Each institution or professional may have its own procedures and
requirements for selling shares and may charge fees.

25
<PAGE>
 
Redemption requests should be accompanied by the Fund's name, your Fund account
number and the dollar amount or number of shares to be redeemed. The Fund will
mail a check to your account address or, if you have elected the wire redemption
privilege, the Fund will wire the proceeds to your bank.

Signature Guarantees

To protect your account from fraud, the Fund and its agent may require a
signature guarantee for certain redemptions to verify the identity of the person
who has authorized a redemption from your account. Please contact the Fund for
further information.

Telephone Transactions

You may give up some level of security by choosing to buy or sell shares by
telephone, rather than by mail. The Funds will employ reasonable procedures to
confirm that telephone instructions are genuine. If they do not employ these
procedures, the Funds or the transfer agent may be liable for any losses due to
unauthorized or fraudulent transactions. A written confirmation will be provided
for all purchase, exchange and redemption transactions initiated by telephone.

Transfer of Securities

Under certain circumstances, investors may be permitted to purchase Fund shares
by transferring securities to a separate Fund that meets the original Fund's
investment objective and policies. (Please see the Statement of Additional
Information for more information.)

Dividends and Distributions

Each Fund passes most of its net investment income along to investors in the
form of distributions. All shareholders of a Fund are entitled to a
proportionate share of the Fund's net income and realized capital gains on its
investments.

Net investment income for all of the Funds consists of all dividends and
interest received, less expenses (including fees payable to the Advisor and its
affiliates).

Dividends from net investment income are declared, and paid, by each Fund semi-
annually -- in June and December. In December, the Funds will distribute
substantially all of their net long-term capital gains and any undistributed net
short-term capital gains realized during the one year period commencing November
1 (or date of the creation of the Fund, if later) and ending October 31. At the
same time, the Funds will distribute all of their net investment income earned
through the end of December and not previously distributed as ordinary (not
capital) income.

Dividends and other distributions paid on each class of shares of a Fund are
calculated at the same time and in the same manner. Dividends on each class
might be affected differently by the allocation of other class-specific
expenses.
    
Unless you notify the transfer agent in writing that you elect to receive your
income dividends and capital gain distributions in cash, all will be reinvested
automatically in additional Fund shares of the same class of a Fund.
Distribution options may be changed at any time by requesting a change in
writing. Dividends are reinvested on the reinvestment date at the net asset
value determined at the close of business on that date. Please note that shares
purchased shortly before the record date for a dividend or distribution may have
the effect of returning capital, although such dividends and distributions are
subject to taxes.     

                                                                              26
<PAGE>
 
Tax Considerations

Following is a brief discussion of the general tax treatment of various
distributions from the Funds. It is not an exhaustive discussion, and your
particular tax status may be different. We encourage you to consult with your
own tax advisor about federal, state and local tax considerations.
    
In general, distributions from a Fund are taxable to you as either ordinary
income or capital gains. This is true whether you invest your distributions in
additional shares of a Fund or receive them in cash. Any capital gains
distributed by a Fund are taxable to you as long-term capital gains no matter
how long you have owned your shares. The rate of tax will generally depend on
how long the Fund held the securities on which it realized the gains.     

When you sell or exchange your shares of a Fund, you may have a capital gain or
loss. The tax rate on any gain from the sale or exchange of your shares depends
on how long you have held your shares.
    
Fund distributions and gains from the sale or exchange of your shares will
generally be subject to state and local income tax. Foreign investors may be
subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax.

If any of the following situations apply to you, the Funds will be required by
the IRS to withhold 31% of your taxable distributions:

* you do not provide your correct taxpayer identification number, or
* you do not certify that such number is correct, or
* if the IRS instructs the Fund to do so

Buying a Dividend

If you buy shares in a Stock Fund just before the Fund makes any distribution,
or if you buy shares in any Bond Fund just prior to a capital gain distribution,
you will receive some of the purchase price back in the form of a taxable
distribution.    

Shareholders will be advised annually of the source and the tax status of all
Fund distributions for federal income tax purposes.

Multiple Classes

The Funds are a series of The Brinson Funds, a Delaware business trust, and
currently offer three classes of shares: the Brinson Funds-Class I, Brinson
Funds-Class N and UBS Investment Funds Class of shares.

27
<PAGE>
 
Financial Highlights
    
The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand a Fund's
financial performance for the past six years (or, if shorter, the period of the
Fund's operations). Certain information reflects financial results for a single
Fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor
would have earned (or lost) on an investment in each Fund (assuming reinvestment
of all dividends and distributions).

Global Fund, Global Equity Fund, Global Bond Fund, U.S. Balanced Fund, U.S.
Equity Fund, U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund, U.S. Bond Fund and Global
(ex-U.S.) Equity Fund

The selected financial information in the following table has been audited by
the Funds' independent auditors, whose unqualified reports thereon (the
"Reports") appear in the Funds' Annual Report to Shareholders dated June 30,
1998 (the "Annual Report"). In addition, the table includes unaudited financial
information for the period ended December 31, 1998, which is included in the
Funds' Semi-Annual Report to Shareholders (the "Semi-Annual Report") dated
December 31, 1998. Additional performance and financial data and related notes
are contained in the Annual Report and the Semi-Annual Report, which are
available without charge upon request. The Funds' Financial Statements for the
fiscal year ended June 30, 1998 and the Reports, as well as the Semi-Annual
Report, are incorporated by reference into the Statement of Additional
Information.

U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund and
High Yield Fund

The U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, the U.S. Small Capitalization Growth
Fund and the High Yield Fund (collectively, the "New Funds") are successors to
the UBS Large Cap Growth Fund, the UBS Small Cap Fund and the UBS High Yield
Bond Fund, respectively (collectively, the "Predecessor Funds"). Each
Predecessor Fund, prior to its merger into a New Fund, operated as a separate
portfolio of UBS Private Investor Funds, Inc., another investment company that
was advised by another entity. The Predecessor Funds had fiscal years ending on
December 31. On December 18, 1998, following the approval of the shareholders of
each Predecessor Fund of an agreement and plan of reorganization, the UBS Large
Cap Growth Fund, the UBS Small Cap Fund and the UBS High Yield Bond Fund were
reorganized and merged into the U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, the U.S.
Small Capitalization Growth Fund and the High Yield Fund, respectively. (These
transactions are collectively referred to as the "Reorganizations.") The New
Funds had no operations prior to the Reorganizations.

The selected financial information in the following table, for the year ended
December 31, 1998, has been audited by the Funds' independent auditors, whose
unqualified reports on the financial statements containing such information (the
"New Funds' Reports") appear in the New Funds' Annual Report to Shareholders
dated December 31, 1998 (the "New Funds' Annual Report"). The selected
financial information in the following table for the year ended December 31,
1997 has been audited by the Predecessor Funds' independent auditors, whose
unqualified reports on the financial statements containing such information (the
"Predecessor Funds' Reports") appear in the Predecessor Funds' Annual Report to
Shareholders dated December 31, 1997 (the "Predecessor Funds' Annual Report").
Additional performance and financial data and related notes are contained in the
New Funds' Annual Report and the Predecessor Funds' Annual Reports
(collectively, the "New Funds' and Predecessor Funds' Reports"), which are
available without charge upon request. The New Funds' financial statements for
the fiscal year ended December 31, 1998 and the Predecessor Funds' financial
statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997, and the New Funds' and
Predecessor Funds' Reports, are incorporated by reference into the Statement of
Additional Information.     

                                                                         28
<PAGE>
 
Financial Highlights (cont.)
    
Financial Highlights--Fiscal Years Ended June 30 and December 31

The following table presents financial data relating to a share of beneficial
interest outstanding throughout the periods presented. This information has been
derived from the Funds' and the Predecessor Funds' financial statements.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  Income (Loss) from Investment
                                                           Operations                          Less Distributions
                                             --------------------------------------     ---------------------------------
                                                                                        Distributions       Distributions
                                                                            Total         from and            from and
                             Net asset         Net           Net           income         in excess           in excess
                              value--        Invest-     realized and    (loss) from       of net              of net
                             beginning        ment        unrealized     investment      investment           realized
Year                         of period       income      gain (loss)     operations        income               gain

BRINSON GLOBAL FUND--Class  I(Commenc ement of Operations August 31, 1992)/2/
<S>                          <C>             <C>         <C>             <C>            <C>                 <C>
1993                          $10.00          0.26           0.81           1.07           (0.20)                 --
1994                          $10.87          0.33          (0.23)          0.10           (0.27)              (0.27)
1995                          $10.43          0.43           0.86           1.29           (0.27)              (0.10)
1996                          $11.35          0.44           1.37           1.81           (0.62)              (0.32)
1997                          $12.22          0.38           1.79           2.17           (0.61)              (0.65)
1998                          $13.13          0.37           0.62           0.99           (0.65)              (0.70)
1998 (December 31st)          $12.77          0.18           0.05           0.23           (0.37)              (0.83)

BRINSON GLOBAL EQUITY FUND--Class I (Commencement of Operations January 28, 1994)/2/
1994                          $10.00          0.07          (0.54)         (0.47)          (0.04)                 --
1995                          $ 9.49          0.18           0.39           0.57           (0.04)              (0.09)
1996                          $ 9.93          0.18           2.29           2.47           (0.14)              (0.69)
1997                          $11.57          0.16           2.14           2.30           (0.12)              (0.99)
1998                          $12.76          0.22           0.78           1.00           (0.17)              (1.05)
1998 (December 31st)          $12.54          0.04           0.30           0.34           (0.12)              (0.18)
</TABLE>

(1)  Annualized.
(2)  Formerly known as the Brinson Fund Class shares; redesignated as the
Brinson Fund-Class I shares on June 30, 1997.
N/A=Not Applicable.     


29
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                                                        RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
                                                     -------------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                               Ratio of Net
                                                          Ratio of Expenses                 Investment Income
                                                            to Average Net                    to Average Net
                                                                Assets                            Assets
                                                     -------------------------------     -------------------------
                Net                        Net
               asset        Total         assets,                                        Before
   Total       value--      Return        end of     Before expense    After expense    expense     After expense    Portfolio
 Distribu-     end of        (non-        period        reimburse-       reimburse-     reimburse-     reimburse-     turnover
   tions       period     annualized)    (in 000s)         ment            ment            ment           ment          rate
<S>           <C>        <C>            <C>          <C>               <C>              <C>          <C>              <C>

   (0.20)     $10.87       10.76 %      $191,389         1.35%/1/          1.05%/1/      3.26%/1/       3.56%/1/        149%
   (0.54)     $10.87        0.77 %      $278,859         1.14%             1.10%         3.21%          3.25%           231%
   (0.37)     $11.35       12.57 %      $365,678         1.09%              N/A          4.27%           N/A            238%
   (0.94)     $12.22       16.38 %      $457,933         1.04%              N/A          3.69%           N/A            142%
   (1.26)     $13.13       18.79 %      $586,667         0.99%              N/A          3.03%           N/A            150%
   (1.35)     $12.77        8.28 %      $667,745         0.94%              N/A          2.70%           N/A             88%
   (1.20)     $11.80        1.99 %      $482,171         0.95%/1/           N/A          2.20%/1/        N/A             41%

   (0.04)     $ 9.49       (4.70)%      $ 20,642         2.65%/1/          1.00%/1/      0.24%/1/       1.89%/1/         21%
   (0.13)     $ 9.93        6.06 %      $ 20,706         2.06%             1.00%         0.71%          1.77%            36%
   (0.83)     $11.57       25.66 %      $ 27,126         1.77%             1.00%         0.57%          1.34%            74%
   (1.11)     $12.76       21.26 %      $ 48,054         1.25%             1.00%         1.35%          1.60%            32%
   (1.22)     $12.54        8.99 %      $ 22,724         1.02%             1.00%         1.29%          1.31%            46%
   (0.30)     $12.58        2.86 %      $ 24,604         1.05%/1/          1.00%/1/      0.66%/1/       0.71%/1/         49%
</TABLE>     

                                                                              30
<PAGE>
 
Financial Highlights (cont.)

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                                   Income (Loss) from Investment
                                                            Operations                          Less Distributions
                                              ---------------------------------------    ---------------------------------
                                                                                         Distributions       Distributions
                                                                             Total         from and            from and
                             Net asset          Net           Net           income         in excess           in excess
                              value--         Invest-     realized and    (loss) from       of net              of net
                             beginning         ment        unrealized     investment      investment           realized
Year                         of period        income      gain (loss)     operations        income               gain
<S>                          <C>              <C>         <C>             <C>            <C>                 <C>
BRINSON GLOBAL BOND FUND--Class I (Commencement of Operations July 30, 1993)/2/
1994                          $10.00           0.45          (0.52)         (0.07)          (0.28)              (0.10)
1995                          $ 9.55           0.50           0.58           1.08           (0.24)                 --
1996                          $10.39           0.84           0.31           1.15           (1.40)              (0.10)
1997                          $10.04           0.67           0.08           0.75           (0.96)              (0.19)
1998                          $ 9.64           0.43/3/       (0.18)          0.25           (0.31)              (0.17)
1998 (December 31st)          $ 9.41           0.21/3/        0.74           0.95           (0.38)              (0.08)

BRINSON U.S. BALANCED FUND--Class I (Commencement of Operations December 30, 1994)/2/
1995                          $10.00           0.23           1.16           1.39           (0.16)                 --
1996                          $11.23           0.44           1.04           1.48           (0.43)              (0.57)
1997                          $11.71           0.47           1.29           1.76           (0.40)              (0.54)
1998                          $12.53           0.49/3/        0.93           1.42           (0.77)              (0.94)
1998 (December 31st)          $12.24           0.19/3/        0.24           0.43           (0.63)              (2.65)

BRINSON U.S. EQUITY FUND--Class I (Commencement of Operations February 22, 1994)/2/
1994                          $10.00           0.05          (0.36)         (0.31)          (0.04)                 --
1995                          $ 9.65           0.16           1.89           2.05           (0.14)              (0.03)
1996                          $11.53           0.17           3.31           3.48           (0.17)              (0.25)
1997                          $14.59           0.15           4.27           4.42           (0.14)              (1.23)
1998                          $17.64           0.19           3.39           3.58           (0.18)              (1.13)
1998 (December 31st)          $19.91           0.08/3/        0.73           0.81           (0.12)              (1.07)

BRINSON U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION EQUITY FUND--Class I (Commencement of Operations April 6, 1998)
1998                          $10.00           0.02          (0.20)         (0.18)          (0.02)                 --
1998 (December 31st)          $ 9.80           0.03           0.56           0.59           (0.07)                 --
</TABLE>

(1)  Annualized.
(2)  Formerly known as the Brinson Fund Class shares; redesignated as the
Brinson Fund-Class I shares on June 30, 1997.
(3)  The net investment income per share data was determined by using average
shares outstanding throughout the period.
N/A=Not Applicable.     

31
<PAGE>
 

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                                                RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
                                                                -------------------------
                                                                                   Ratio of Net
                                                     Ratio of Expenses           Investment income
                                                      to Average Net              to Average Net
                                                          Assets                      Assets
                                                     -----------------           ----------------

               Net                       Net
              asset       Total        assets,       Before       After         Before        After
   Total     value-      Return        end of       expense      expense       expense       expense       Portfolio
 Distribu-   end of       (non-        period      reimburse-   reimburse-    reimburse-    reimburse-     turnover
   tions     period    annualized)    (in 000s)       ment         ment          ment          ment          rate
 <S>         <C>        <C>            <C>          <C>          <C>           <C>           <C>            <C>
    (0.38)  $  9.55       (0.79)%     $ 36,849        1.78%/1/    0.90%/1/     4.03 %/1/      4.91 %/1/      189%
    (0.24)  $ 10.39       11.34 %     $ 51,863        1.43%       0.90%        5.53 %         6.06 %         199%
    (1.50)  $ 10.04       11.50 %     $ 41,066        1.65%       0.90%        4.98 %         5.73 %         184%
    (1.15)  $  9.64        7.71 %     $ 54,157        1.32%       0.90%        4.90 %         5.32 %         235%
    (0.48)  $  9.41        2.69 %     $ 91,274         .96%       0.90%        4.47 %         4.53 %         151%
    (0.46)  $  9.90       10.14 %     $119,515         .90%        N/A         4.23 %/1/       N/A            49%

    (0.16)  $ 11.23       13.91 %     $157,724        1.06%/1/    0.80%/1/     4.36 %/1/      4.63 %/1/      196%
    (1.00)  $ 11.71       13.52 %     $227,829        1.01%       0.80%        3.76 %         3.97 %         240%
    (0.94)  $ 12.53       15.50 %     $282,860        0.88%       0.80%        3.78 %         3.86 %         329%
    (1.71)  $ 12.24       12.19 %     $ 80,556        0.81%       0.80%        3.88 %         3.89 %         194%
    (3.28)  $  9.39        3.74 %     $ 42,781         .94%       0.80%        3.08 %         3.22 %          65%

    (0.04)  $  9.65       (3.10)%     $  8,200        5.40%/1/    0.80%/1/    (2.82)%/1/      1.78 %/1/        9%
    (0.17)  $ 11.53       21.45 %     $ 42,573        1.70%       0.80%        1.09 %         1.99 %          33%
    (0.42)  $ 14.59       30.57 %     $126,342        1.14%       0.80%        1.13 %         1.47 %          36%
    (1.37)  $ 17.64       31.87 %     $337,949        0.89%       0.80%        1.06 %         1.15 %          43%
    (1.31)  $ 19.91       21.48 %     $605,768        0.80%        N/A         1.12 %          N/A            42%
    (1.19)  $ 19.53        4.32 %     $691,214         .80%/1/     N/A         0.86 %/1/       N/A            17%

    (0.02)  $  9.80       (1.83)%     $    154        1.59%/1/    0.80%/1/     0.52 %/1/      1.31 %/1/       12%
    (0.07)  $ 10.32        6.01 %     $  9,432        1.40%/1/    0.80%/1/     0.50 %/1/      1.10 %/1/       19%
</TABLE>     

                                                                              32
<PAGE>
 
 
Financial Highlights (cont.)

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                                Income (Loss) from Investment
                                                          Operations                              Less Distributions
                                                ------------------------------           ---------------------------------
                                                                                         Distributions       Distributions
                                                                            Total          from and           from and
                            Net asset          Net            Net           income         in excess          in excess
                             value-           Invest-     realized and    (loss) from       of net             of net
                            beginning          ment        unrealized     investment      investment          realized
Year                        of period         income       gain (loss)    operations        income              gain
<S>                         <C>               <C>         <C>             <C>             <C>                 <C>
BRINSON U.S. BOND FUND--Class I (Commencement of Operations August 31, 1995)/2/
1996                         $10.00            0.50           (0.14)         0.36            (0.40)             (0.03)
1997                         $ 9.93            0.51/3/         0.32          0.83            (0.52)                --
1998                         $10.24            0.53            0.53          1.06            (0.58)             (0.14)
1998 (December 31st)         $10.58            0.29/3/         0.18          0.47            (0.28)             (0.15)

BRINSON GLOBAL (ex-U.S.) EQUITY FUND--Class I (Commencement of Operations August 31, 1993)/3, 4/
1994                         $10.00            0.10           (0.34)        (0.24)           (0.07)                --
1995                         $ 9.69            0.15           (0.16)        (0.01)              --                 --
1996                         $ 9.68            0.18            2.05          2.23            (0.18)             (0.56)
1997                         $11.17            0.18            1.97          2.15            (0.17)             (0.56)
1998                         $12.59            0.18            0.30          0.48            (0.18)             (0.74)
1998 (December 31st)         $12.15            0.04            0.09          0.13            (0.04)             (0.12)

BRINSON U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND/6/--Class I (Commencement of Operations October 14, 1997)/7/
1997/5/                      $10.00            0.02           (0.08)        (0.06)           (0.02)                --
1998 (December 31st)         $ 9.92            0.06            2.38          2.44            (0.06)             (0.46)

BRINSON U.S. SMALL CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND/6/--Class I (Commencement of Operations September 30, 1997)/7/
1997/5/                      $10.00              --           (0.56)        (0.56)              --                 --
1998 (December 31st)         $ 9.44           (0.02)          (0.57)        (0.59)           (0.05)                --

BRINSON HIGH YIELD FUND/6/--Class I (Commencement of Operations September 30, 1997)/7/
1997/5/                      $10.00            0.18           0.05           0.23            (0.18)                --
1998 (December 31st)         $10.05            7.30           0.02           7.32            (7.33)             (0.06)
</TABLE>     
    
(1)  Annualized.

(2)  Formerly known as the Brinson Fund Class shares; redesignated as the
Brinson Fund-Class I shares on June 30, 1997.     

(3)  The net investment income per share data was determined by using average
shares outstanding throughout the period.

(4)  The Brinson Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund changed its name from the Brinson
Non-U.S. Equity Fund on December 10, 1998. During the fiscal year ended June 30,
1998, the Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund had total borrowings of $32,600,000
outstanding for 1 day (June 29, 1998) under the Trust's agreement with The Chase
Manhattan Bank to provide a 364-day $100 million committed line of credit. The
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund had 36,449,018.679 shares outstanding on June 29,
1998, and the amount of debt per share was $12.05. At June 30, 1998, the Fund
had no debt outstanding.

(5)  For the period from commencement of operations to December 31, 1997.
    
(6)  Prior to the Reorganizations, each of these Series operated as a separate
portfolio of UBS Private Investor Funds, Inc. and invested all of its respective
investable assets in an affiliated investment company with an identical
investment objective. The U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund invested solely
in the UBS Investor Portfolios Trust--UBS Large Cap Growth Portfolio; the U.S.
Small     

33
<PAGE>
 

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                                                RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
                                                  ---------------------------------------------------
                                                                                   Ratio of Net
                                                     Ratio of Expenses           Investment Income
                                                      to Average Net              to Average Net
                                                          Assets                      Assets
- ------------                                      -----------------------     ----------------------

               Net                       Net
              asset       Total        assets,       Before       After         Before        After
   Total     value-      Return        end of       expense      expense       expense       expense       Portfolio
 Distribu-   end of       (non-        period      reimburse-   reimburse-    reimburse-    reimburse-     turnover
   tions     period    annualized)    (in 000s)       ment         ment          ment          ment          rate
 <S>        <C>        <C>            <C>          <C>         <C>            <C>           <C>            <C>
 (0.43)     $  9.93      3.60 %       $  9,047      3.63%/1/     0.60%/1/       3.00 %/1/     6.03 %/1/     363%
 (0.52)     $ 10.24      8.45 %       $ 22,421      1.65%        0.60%          5.14 %        6.19 %        410%
 (0.72)     $ 10.58     10.60 %       $ 38,874      0.84%        0.60%          5.61 %        5.85 %        198%
 (0.43)     $ 10.62      4.43 %       $ 90,869      0.64%/1/     0.60%/1/       5.30 %/1/     5.34 %/1/     140%

 (0.07)     $  9.69     (2.45)%       $ 71,544      1.60%/1/     1.00%/1/       1.28 %/1/     1.88 %/1/      12%
   --       $  9.68     (0.10)%       $148,319      1.23%        1.00%          1.93 %        2.16 %         14%
 (0.74)     $ 11.17     23.64 %       $212,366      1.20%        1.00%          1.67 %        1.87 %         20%
 (0.73)     $ 12.59     20.27 %       $420,855      1.00%         N/A           1.83 %         N/A           25%
 (0.92)     $ 12.15      4.78 %       $439,329      1.00%         N/A           1.52 %         N/A           49%
 (0.16)     $ 12.12      1.14 %       $487,468      0.99%/1/      N/A           0.63 %/1/      N/A           37%

 (0.02)     $  9.92     (0.55)%       $  4,137      8.54%/1,6/   1.00%/1,6/    (6.19)%/1,6/   1.35 %/1,6/    N/A
 (0.52)     $ 11.84     24.90 %       $  4,147      2.76%        0.99%         (1.40)%        0.37 %         N/A

   --       $  9.44     (5.62)%       $ 11,954      3.63%/1,6/   1.20%/1,6/    (2.53)%/1,6/  (0.10)%/1,6/    N/A
 (0.05)     $  8.80     (6.70)%       $ 22,607      1.69%        1.20%         (0.76)%       (0.27)%         N/A

 (0.18)     $ 10.05      2.34 %       $  7,861      4.98%/1,6/   0.90%/1,6/     3.15 %/1,6/   7.23 %/1,6/    N/A
 (7.39)     $  9.98      7.75 %       $ 34,900      1.59%        0.89%          7.38 %        8.08 %         N/A

</TABLE>

Capitalization Growth Fund invested solely in the UBS Investor Portfolios
Trust--UBS Small Cap Portfolio; and the High Yield Fund invested solely in the
UBS Investor Portfolios Trust--UBS High Yield Bond Portfolio. The funds in which
each of these Series invested are referred to herein as the "Master Funds." The
ratios set forth in this Financial Highlights table for each of these Series
include the Series' share of its respective Master Fund's expenses. The
annualization of these ratios is also affected by the fact that the Investment
Advisory Agreement and Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement to which these Series
were subject prior to the Reorganizations were not ratified until December 29,
1997. Prior to that date, investment advisory services were being provided
without compensation.

(7) Reflects 10 for 1 share split effective December 9, 1998.

N/A=Not Applicable.     

                                                                              34
<PAGE>
 
Financial Highlights (cont.)


<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>

Appendix A

                                                                               As of December 31, 1998
Brinson Partners, Inc.                                   Number of Accounts      Assets       Percentage of    Highest Annual
Composite Name                                             per Composite       ($ millions)     Firm Assets     Fee on Assets
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                      <C>                   <C>             <C>              <C>
Global Equity Portfolio                                           1                  7               0             0.85%

Global Bond Portfolio                                             1                110             0.1             0.60%

U.S. Balanced Portfolio                                           1                154             0.1             0.75%

U.S. Equity Portfolio                                             1               3529             3.4             0.75%

U.S. Bond Portfolio                                               1               2301             2.2             0.40%

Global (ex-U.S.) Equity
 Portfolio                                                        1               3299             3.2             0.85%

Global Mutual Fund                                                1                511             0.5              N/A

Global Equity Mutual Fund                                         1                 74             0.1              N/A

Global Bond Mutual Fund                                           1                124             0.1              N/A

U.S. Balanced Mutual Fund                                         1                 45             0.0              N/A

U.S. Equity Mutual Fund                                           1                766             0.7              N/A

U.S. Large Capitalization
 Equity Mutual Fund                                               1                 22             0.0              N/A

U.S. Large Capitalization
 Growth Mutual Fund                                               1                  4             0.0              N/A

U.S. Small Capitalization
 Growth Mutual Fund                                               1                 23             0.0              N/A

U.S. Bond Mutual Fund                                             1                 96             0.1              N/A

High Yield Mutual Fund                                            1                 35             0.0              N/A

Global (ex-U.S.) Equity
 Mutual Fund                                                      1                493             0.5              N/A
</TABLE>

/1/ The composites presented in this report are single entity composites or the
 assets of a single client. As such, internal dispersion for all periods is zero
 and is not presented in this report. AIMR-PPS (TM) states that pooled funds,
 including unit trusts (or collective funds) may be treated as separate
 composites. As such, this report presents the composite performance results of
 collective funds only and does not include separately managed accounts.
 Composites for separately managed accounts are available upon request. 

N/A = Not Applicable

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

USB Brinson New York         Number of Accounts        Assets     Percentage of   Highest Annual
Composite Name                per Composite         ($ millions)     Firm Assets   Fee on Assets
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                          <C>                     <C>           <C>            <C>

U.S. Large Capitalization
 Growth Portfolio                   18                  616            0.6            0.75%

U.S. Small Capitalization
 Growth Portfolio                    4                  205            0.2            1.00%

High Yield Portfolio                 3                  134            0.1            0.65%
</TABLE>

(2) Internal dispersion is calculated as the equally-weighted annual standard
deviation within a composite consisting of at least five accounts with full
year returns. 
 
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Equity: 1988, 5.91%; 1989, 4.87%; 1990, 0.54%;
1991, 11.55%; 1992, 3.68%; 1993, 5.21%; 1994, 5.49%; 1995, 3.07%; 1996, 1.02%;
1997, 2.86%.
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Equity: Dispersion for only 1995, 2.06%.
High Yield: 1993, 0.64%; 1994, 1.42%; 1995, 1.10%; 1996, 0.85%; 1997, 0.18%.
     
 
35
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>


Historical Annual Returns (as of December 31 each year)

Name                               1998          1997          1996      1995      1994      1993     1992    1991    1990    1989
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                               <C>           <C>           <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>    <C>     <C>    <C>
Global Equity Portfolio           14.64%        13.70%        18.19%    22.36%     0.75%    17.82%    5.27%  22.95%  -6.28%  24.63%

Global Bond Portfolio             13.89%         2.54%        10.27%    21.15%    -3.56%    11.19%    9.09%  20.12%  10.77%   8.98%

U.S. Balanced Portfolio            9.13%        14.94%        13.13%    27.28%    -0.16%    11.89%   10.04%  23.48%   4.41%  20.54%

U.S. Equity Portfolio             17.66%        26.86%        27.04%    42.41%     1.05%    17.47%   16.16%  36.59%  -8.46%  33.37%

U.S. Bond Portfolio                7.85%        10.19%         4.44%    18.62%    -2.29%    10.60%    8.13%  18.30%   9.35%  13.73%

Global (ex-U.S.) Equity
 Portfolio                        16.46%         7.33%        14.21%    17.63%     3.20%    23.88%   -2.54%  17.68%  -8.19%  22.04%

Global Mutual Fund                 8.32%        11.00%        14.10%    24.14%    -1.89%    11.15%    3.29%*    --      --      --

Global Equity Mutual Fund         14.03%        10.72%        17.26%    21.93%    -4.35%*      --       --      --      --      --

Global Bond Mutual Fund           11.98%         1.63%         9.30%    20.32%    -3.49%     3.86%*     --      --      --      --

U.S. Balanced Mutual Fund          9.92%        13.22%        11.32%    25.48%       --        --       --      --      --      --

U.S. Equity Mutual Fund           18.57%        24.76%        25.65%    40.58%    -1.63%*      --       --      --      --      --

U.S. Large Capitalization
 Equity Mutual Fund                5.87%*          --            --        --        --        --       --      --      --      --

U.S. Large Capitalization
 Growth Mutual Fund               24.90%        -0.55%*          --        --        --        --       --      --      --      --

U.S. Small Capitalization
 Growth Mutual Fund               -6.70%        -5.62%*          --        --        --        --       --      --      --      --

U.S. Bond Mutual Fund              8.37%         9.64%         3.53%     5.49%*      --        --       --      --      --      --

High Yield Mutual Fund             7.75%         2.34%*          --        --        --        --       --      --      --      --

Global (ex-U.S.) Equity
 Mutual Fund                      14.39%         5.74%        12.75%    15.55%     0.94%    -3.45%*     --      --      --      --
</TABLE>


*Represents partial-year performance. Returns are not annualized.     

                                                                              36
<PAGE>
 
     
For More Information

More information on The Brinson Funds is available free upon request:

Shareholder Reports

Additional information about the Funds' investments is available in the Funds'
annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders. In the Funds' annual report, you
will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that
significantly affected each Fund's performance during its last fiscal year.

Statement Of Additional Information (SAI)

The SAI provides more details about each Fund and its policies. The SAI is on
file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and is incorporated by
reference into (is legally considered part of) this prospectus.


TO OBTAIN INFORMATION:

BY TELEPHONE
Call 1-800-448-2430

By Mail
The Brinson Funds
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798

By Email

[email protected]

On The Internet

Text-only versions of the prospectus and other documents pertaining to the Funds
can be viewed online or downloaded from:

 SEC: http://www.sec.gov

 Brinson Partners: http://www.ubsbrinson.com

Information about the Funds (including the SAI) can also be reviewed and copied
at the SEC's public reference room in Washington, DC (phone 1-800-SEC-0330). Or,
you can obtain copies of this information by sending a request, along with a
duplicating fee, to the SEC's Public Reference Section, Washington, DC 20549-
6009.

The Funds are series of The Brinson Funds;
Registration Number: 811-6637     

37
<PAGE>
 

                                           [Brinson Logo]
                                                                                

                                           The Brinson Funds
                                           Class N Shares

                                             Prospectus
                                             May 3, 1999

                                           Global Fund
                                           Global Equity Fund
                                           Global Bond Fund
                                           U.S. Balanced Fund
                                           U.S. Equity Fund
                                           U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund
                                           U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund
                                           U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund
                                           U.S. Bond Fund
                                           High Yield Fund
                                           Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund

    
                                       As with any mutual fund, the Securities
                                       and Exchange Commission (SEC) has not
                                       approved or disapproved of these
                                       securities or determined whether this
                                       prospectus is adequate or complete. Any
                                       representation to the contrary is a
                                       criminal offense.     

 

[Brinson Logo]


The Brinson Funds

209 South LaSalle Street.Chicago, Illinois 60604-1295
Tel: 1-800-448-2430
<PAGE>
 
Table of Contents


The Brinson Investment Process                                          2
   
Overview of the Funds    

    Global Fund                                                         3

    Global Equity Fund                                                  4

    Global Bond Fund                                                    5

    U.S. Balanced Fund                                                  6

    U.S. Equity Fund                                                    7

    U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund                               8

    U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund                               9

    U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund                              10

    U.S. Bond Fund                                                     11

    High Yield Fund                                                    12

    Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund                                       13

Risk Considerations                                                    14

Fees and Expenses                                                      16

Investment Advisor                                                     18

Prior Performance of Advisor                                           19

Pricing of Fund Shares                                                 22

Purchasing Shares                                                      23

Redeeming Shares                                                       25

Dividends and Distributions                                            26

Distribution Arrangements                                              27

Tax Considerations                                                     27

Financial Highlights                                                   28

Appendix A                                                             33

For More Information                                                   35

1

<PAGE>
 
Overview of the Funds    

The investment objective of each Fund is "fundamental" and may be changed only
with shareholder approval. Unless otherwise stated, each Fund's investment
policies are not fundamental and may be changed by the Funds' Trustees without a
shareholder vote. There can be no assurance that the Funds will be able to
attain their objectives.

Each Fund's primary investment practices and strategies are discussed in this
prospectus. Other practices, and their related risks, are described in the
Statement of Additional Information (SAI).
    
Each Fund's principal risks and strategies are provided within the Fund
descriptions that follow. Principal and secondary risks are discussed in detail
under "Risk Considerations" on page 14.
    
The Brinson Funds strongly discourages market timers and short-term traders from
investing in the Funds. Shares of The Brinson Funds are not bank deposits and
are not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. The
value of your investment in a Fund will fluctuate, which means that you may lose
money.    

A Look At The Brinson Investment Process
       
At Brinson Partners, we employ a global asset allocation strategy, actively
diversifying investments within and across all major asset classes. Our
investment decisions are based on fundamental research, internally developed
valuation systems and seasoned judgement. Our philosophy is that the
determination of fundamental investment value within the context of a globally
integrated economy is the focus of all investment decisions. World economies and
financial markets are interactive. Thus, investment management, both within and
across global stock and bond markets, must be based upon comprehensive knowledge
and analyses of integrated investment fundamentals.

Our investment style has a single focus investment fundamentals determine and
describe future cash flows that, for us, define investment value. It is our
belief that periodically there are important exploitable discrepancies between
market price and investment value. The price/value discrepancies then become the
building blocks for portfolio construction. Portfolio structure is focused on
both risk and return considerations in the context of full long-term investment
cycles.

Another aspect of Brinson Partners' approach is the management of a portfolio of
securities against a selected benchmark. If we are indifferent among markets, we
tend toward the normal weight, as determined by the proportion of each market in
the benchmark. Decisions to deviate from the normal mix of assets are a blend of
rigorous quantitative analysis, an understanding of the fundamental
relationships among global markets and the expertise of our investment
professionals. All security selection decisions for a Fund are made in relation
to the benchmark, as described in each Fund's principal strategy section. The
benchmark for each Fund is an index consisting of securities that are
representative of that Fund's investments. From time to time, we may substitute
securities from an equivalent index that we believe more accurately reflects
changes in our expectations for various markets.

Equity Selections

Our equity portfolio construction process focuses on the four layers of equity
management that best explain portfolio performance: market sensitivity, common
factor exposures, industry weightings and individual stock selection. Securities
are chosen from an extensive list of companies in all major markets and
industries. Stock selection is based on fundamental analysis, often
incorporating quantitative models. With the exception of the U.S. Small
Capitalization Growth Fund, the security selection decision seeks out medium-to-
larger capitalization issues that are attractively priced relative to underlying
fundamental value. Research focuses on the ability of individual companies to
generate profits. We also analyze industry competitive strategy, structure and
global integration. We visit management to understand company goals and their
competitive strategies.

Fixed Income Selections

We use an internally developed valuation model for our Fixed Income portfolios,
which quantifies our return expectations for all of the bond markets. Inputs to
this model include forecasts of inflation, risk premiums and interest rates. Our
credit review process incorporates both a top-down strategy, which focuses on
how macroeconomic forces shape various industry outlooks, and a bottom-up
strategy which relies on a combination of qualitative and quantitative factors.
Our qualitative assessment focuses on management strength, market position,
competitive environment, and financial flexibility. Our quantitative assessment
focuses on historical operating results, calculation of various credit ratios
and an expected future outlook. With the exception of the High Yield Fund, the
Fixed Income Funds generally invest in all categories of investment grade fixed
income securities, but emphasize the higher quality securities in this spectrum
(those with a credit rating of AA and above.) Our fixed income strategies
combine judgments about the absolute value of the fixed income universe and the
relative value of issuer sectors, maturity intervals, quality and coupon
segments and specific fixed income securities.    
                                                                              2

<PAGE>
 
Global Fund


Objective

The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income.

Principal Strategies

        
The Fund invests primarily in a portfolio of global equity and fixed income
securities. At least 65% of the Fund's assets are invested in securities of
issuers in at least three countries (which may include the United States).

All security selection decisions are made relative to the Global Securities
Markets Index (GSMI) Mutual Fund Index, the benchmark against which the Fund
measures its portfolio.         

Although it may invest anywhere in the world, the Fund invests primarily in:

* Equity markets listed in the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) World
  Equity (Free) Index
* Fixed income markets listed in the Salomon Smith Barney World Government Bond
  Index

       
Other investments may include:

* Eurodollar securities, which are fixed income securities of a U.S. issuer or a
  foreign issuer that are issued outside the U.S.
* Other open-end investment companies advised by Brinson Partners
* Emerging markets securities

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:

* Market Risk
* Foreign Country and Currency Risks
* Geographic Concentration Risk
* Credit Risk

(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section)

The Fund's portfolio turnover rate may exceed 100%.

Fund Performance

The chart and table which follow give an indication of the Fund's risks and
performance. The chart shows you how the Fund's performance has varied from year
to year. The table compares the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad
measure of market performance. When you consider this information, please
remember that the Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of
how it will perform in the future.

GSMI Mutual Fund Index

An unmanaged index compiled by Brinson Partners, currently constructed as
follows:

40% Wilshire 5000 Index                      3% Merrill Lynch High Yield
22% MSCI World ex USA                               Master Index
       (Free) Index                          3% IFC Investable Index
21% Salomon Smith Barney                     2% JP Morgan EMBI+
       BIG Bond Index
9% Salomon non-U.S. Gov't.
       Bond Index         

From time to time, such underlying indices may change.         
MSCI World Equity (Free) Index

A broad based securities index that represents the U.S. and global (ex-U.S.)
equity markets in terms of capitalization and performance. It is designed to
provide a representative total return for all major stock exchanges located
inside and outside the United States.

Salomon Smith Barney World Government Bond Index

A securities index that represents the broad global fixed income markets and
includes debt issues of U.S. and global (ex-U.S.) governments.

       
Total Return (for the period ended 12/31)

[BAR CHART APPEARS HERE]
1998:    8.00%

Best Quarter:       Q4 1998     7.61%
Worst Quarter:      Q3 1998    -5.33%         


   
Average Annual Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31/98)

                                                           Performance
                                   1       5         10     Inception
                                  Year    Year      Year    (6/30/97)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
Global Fund                       8.00%    --        --       6.49%

MSCI World Equity (Free) Index   24.62%    --        --      16.08%

Salomon Smith Barney World       15.29%    --        --      11.04%
  Government Bond Index

GSMI Mutual Fund Index           16.45%    --        --      13.08%
    

                                                                           3

<PAGE>
 
Global Equity Fund

Objective

The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income.

Principal Strategies
   
The Fund invests primarily in a portfolio of global equity securities. At least
65% of the Fund's assets are invested in securities of issuers in at least three
countries (which may include the United States).    

Although it may invest anywhere in the world, the Fund invests primarily in
equity markets listed in the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) World
Equity (Free) Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its
portfolio.
   
Investments in equity securities may include:

* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Convertible securities (those that are convertible into equity securities)
* Warrants

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:

* Market Risk
* Foreign Country and Currency Risks

(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)    
   
MSCI World Equity (Free) Index

A broad based securities index that represents the U.S. and global (ex-U.S.)
equity markets in terms of capitalization and performance. It is designed to
provide a representative total return for all major stock exchanges located
inside and outside the United States.

Fund Performance

The chart shows the Fund's performance over the past year. The table compares
the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad measure of market
performance. When you consider this information, please remember that the Fund's
past performance is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the
future.
   
Total Return (for the period ended 12/31)

       [BAR CHART GOES HERE]

            1998: 13.63%
    
Best Quarter:       Q4 1998    14.16%
Worst Quarter:      Q3 1998   -10.06%

   
Average Annual Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31/98)

                                                      Performance
                                   1      5      10    Inception
                                  Year   Year   Year   (6/30/97)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
Global Equity Fund               13.63%   --     --      7.51%

MSCI World Equity (Free) Index   24.62%   --     --     16.08%
    

                                                                            4
<PAGE>
 
Global Bond Fund

Objective

The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income.

Principal Strategies

    
The Fund invests primarily in a portfolio of global debt securities that may
also provide the potential for capital appreciation. The Fund is a non-
diversified portfolio.     

Normally, at least 65% of the Fund's assets are invested in debt securities with
an initial maturity of more than one year of issuers in at least three countries
(which may include the United States).

Although it may invest anywhere in the world, the Fund invests primarily in
fixed income markets listed in the Salomon Smith Barney World Government Bond
Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its portfolio.

    
Investments in fixed income securities may include:

* Debt securities of the U.S. government, its agencies and instrumentalities
* Debt securities of U.S. corporations
* Zero coupon securities
* Mortgage-backed securities
* Asset-backed securities
* When-issued securities

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:

* Market Risk
* Credit Risk
* Interest Rate Risk
* Foreign Country and Currency Risks
* Diversification Risk
 (Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)

The Fund's portfolio turnover rate may exceed 100%.

Non-Diversified Portfolio

Invests in fewer securities, which may result in more potential volatility than
a diversified portfolio. Gains or losses on a single security or issuer within
the portfolio will, therefore, have a greater impact on a fund's net asset
value.

Salomon Smith Barney World Government Bond Index

A securities index that represents the broad global fixed income markets and
includes debt issues of U.S. and global (ex-U.S.) governments.     

Fund Performance

The chart shows the Fund's performance over the past year. The table compares
the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad measure of market
performance. When you consider this information, please remember that the Fund's
past performance is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the
future.
   
Total Return (for the period ended 12/31)    

    
[BAR CHART APPEARS HERE]

1998:     11.83%     

Best Quarter:       Q4 1998     5.85%
Worst Quarter:      Q4 1997    -0.32%

    
Average Annual Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31/98)

                                                      Performance
                                   1      5      10    Inception
                                  Year   Year   Year   (6/30/97)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------
Global Bond Fund                 11.83%   --     --      8.30%
Salomon Smith Barney             15.29%   --     --     11.04%
  World Government Bond Index     

5
<PAGE>
 
          
U.S. Balanced Fund

Objective

The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income.
    
Principal Strategies

The Fund invests primarily in a wide range of equity, fixed income and money
market securities.

All selection decisions are made relative to the U.S. Balanced Mutual Fund
Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its portfolio.
     
Investments in equity securities may include:

* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Securities convertible into equity securities
* Warrants

Investments in fixed income securities may include:

* Debt securities of the U.S. government, its agencies and instrumentalities
* Debt securities of U.S. corporations
* Zero coupon securities
* Mortgage-backed securities
* Asset-backed securities
* When-issued securities

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:

* Market Risk
* Interest Rate Risk
    
(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)

The Fund's portfolio turnover rate may exceed 100%.

U.S. Balanced Mutual Fund Index

Compiled by Brinson Partners, this index represents a fixed composite of 65%
Wilshire 5000 Equity Index and 35% Salomon Smith Barney Broad Investment Grade
(BIG) Bond Index.

From time to time, indices may change.

Wilshire 5000 Equity Index

A broad weighted index that includes all U.S. common stocks. It is designed to
provide a representative indication of the capitalization and return for the
U.S. equity market.

Salomon Smith Barney
Broad Investment Grade (BIG) Bond Index
A broad-based index that includes U.S. bonds with over one year to maturity.


     
Fund Performance

The chart and table which follow give an indication of the Fund's risks and
performance. The chart shows you how the Fund's performance has varied from
year to year. The table compares the Fund's performance over time to that of a
broad measure of market performance. When you consider this information, please
remember that the Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of
how it will perform in the future.
    
Total Return (for the period ended 12/31)     

[BAR CHART APPEARS HERE]
    
1998:     9.92%     

Best Quarter:     Q3 1997    4.63%
Worst Quarter:    Q3 1997   -0.24%
    
Average Annual Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31/98)

                                                      Performance
                              1        5       10      Inception
                             Year     Year    Year     (6/30/97)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Balanced Fund           9.92%     --      --        10.50%
Wilshire 5000 Index         23.43%     --      --        23.80%
Salomon Smith Barney         8.72%     --      --        10.17%
 (BIG) Index
U.S. Balanced Mutual        18.85%     --      --        19.45%
 Fund Index
     

                                                                             6
<PAGE>
 
U.S. Equity Fund

Objective

The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income, while controlling risk.

Principal Strategies

Normally, the Fund invests at least 65% of its assets in equity securities of
U.S. companies.

    
All selection decisions are made relative to the Wilshire 5000 Equity Index, the
benchmark against which the Fund measures its portfolio.     

Investments in equity securities may include:

* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Securities convertible into equity securities
* Warrants

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:

* Market Risk
    
(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)     

Wilshire 5000 Equity Index

A broad weighted index that includes all U.S. common stocks. It is designed to
provide a representative indication of the capitalization and return for the
U.S. equity market.

Fund Performance

The chart shows the Fund's performance over the past year. The table compares
the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad measure of market
performance. When you consider this information, please remember that the Fund's
past performance is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the
future.
    
Total Return (for the period ended 12/31)     

    
[BAR CHART APPEARS HERE]

1998:     17.99%     
 
Best Quarter:       Q4 1998    16.28%
Worst Quarter:      Q3 1998   -10.56%

    
Average Annual Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31/98)

                                                 Performance
                          1       5       10      Inception
                         Year    Year    Year     (6/30/97)
- ------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Equity Fund        17.99%    --      --        16.57%
Wilshire 5000 Equity    23.43%    --      --        23.80%
 Index     

7
<PAGE>
 
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund

Objective

The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income, while controlling risk.

Principal Strategies

Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests at least 65% of its assets in
equity securities of U.S. large capitalization companies. The Fund is a non-
diversified portfolio.

All selection decisions are undertaken relative to the Standard & Poor's 500
Stock Index (S&P 500 Index), the benchmark against which the Fund measures its
portfolio.

Investments in equity securities may include:

* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Securities convertible into equity securities
* Warrants

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:

* Market Risk
* Diversification Risk
    
(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)     

    
Large Capitalization Companies

Those with market capitalizations in the upper 65% of the Wilshire 5000 Equity
Index. Companies whose capitalization falls below this level after purchase will
continue to be considered large capitalization companies.

Non-Diversified Portfolio

Invests in fewer securities, which may result in more potential volatility than
a diversified portfolio. Gains or losses on a single security or issuer within
the portfolio will, therefore, have a greater impact on a fund's net asset
value.     

S&P 500 Index

A broad capitalization market-weighted index that includes common stocks of the
leading companies in the top industries in the United States. It is designed to
provide a representative indication of the capitalization and return of the
large capitalization U.S. equity market.

Fund Performance

    
There is no performance data presented because the Fund has not been in
existence for a full calendar year. Inception date was 4/6/98.     

                                                                               8
<PAGE>
 
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund

Objective

The Fund seeks to provide long-term capital appreciation.

Principal Strategies

The Fund invests primarily in a portfolio of equity securities of large
capitalization growth companies. The Fund is a non-diversified portfolio.

    
All selection decisions are made relative to the S&P 500 Index, the benchmark
against which the Fund measures its portfolio.     

* Normally, at least 65% of the Fund's assets are invested in securities issued
  by such companies
* Up to 20% of the Fund's assets may be invested in foreign securities

Investments in equity securities may include:
* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Securities convertible into equity securities
* Warrants

    
The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Market Risk
* Diversification Risk

(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)

Large Capitalization Growth Companies 

Companies with market capitalizations in the upper 65% of the Wilshire 5000
Equity Index. Companies whose capitalization falls below this level after
purchase will continue to be considered large capitalization growth companies.

Non-Diversified Portfolio

Invests in fewer securities, which may result in more potential
volatility than a diversified portfolio. Gains or losses on a single
security or issuer within the portfolio will, therefore, have a greater
impact on a fund's net asset value.

S&P 500 Index

A broad capitalization market-weighted index that includes common stocks of the
leading companies in the top industries in the United States. It is designed to
provide a representative indication of the capitalization and return of the
large capitalization U.S. equity market.     

Fund Performance

The chart shows the Fund's performance over the past year. The table compares
the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad measure of market
performance. When you consider this information, please remember that the Fund's
past performance is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the
future.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
   
Total Return (for the period ended 12/31)    
[BAR CHART GOES HERE]
    
1998:     24.90%     
<S>                                             <C>       <C>      <C>         <C>
 
Best Quarter:                                   Q4 1998    26.41%
Worst Quarter:                                  Q3 1998   -12.67%
    
Average Annual Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31/98)
                                                                               Performance
                                                     1         5          10   Inception
                                                   Year      Year        Year   (10/31/97)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Large Capitalization                         24.90%      --          --       20.42%
 Growth Fund
S&P 500 Index                                     28.58%      --          --       30.84%
* 12b-1 fees apply after December 31, 1998
</TABLE>     

9
<PAGE>
 
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund

Objective
The Fund seeks to provide long-term capital appreciation.

Principal Strategies
Under normal conditions, the Fund invests at least 65% of its assets in equity
securities of U.S. small capitalization companies.

    
All selection decisions are made relative to the Russell 2000 Index, the
benchmark against which the Fund measures its portfolio.     

The Fund may also invest in securities of emerging market growth companies. The
Fund may invest up to 20% of its assets in foreign securities.

    
Investments in equity securities may include:
* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Securities convertible into equity securities
* Warrants

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Small Company Risk
* Market Risk

(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)

The Fund's portfolio turnover rate may exceed 100%.

Small Capitalization Companies
Companies with market capitalizations in the lower 7-1/2% of the Wilshire 
5000 Equity Index.     

Emerging Market Growth Companies
Small or medium sized companies that have passed their start-up phase
and are showing positive earnings, as well as potential for achieving
significant profit in a relatively short period of time.

Russell 2000 Index
A securities index that includes primarily U.S. common stocks.
It is designed to provide a representative indication of the
capitalization and return for the small capitalization 
U.S. equity market.

         

Fund Performance

The chart shows the Fund's performance over the past year. The table compares
the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad measure of market
performance. When you consider this information, please remember that the Fund's
past performance is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the
future.
    
Total Return (for the period ended 12/31)    

[Bar Chart appears here]

    
1998:     -6.70%     

Best Quarter:                   Q4 1998    19.10%
Worst Quarter:                  Q3 1998   -23.86%

    
Average Annual Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31/98)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                Performance
                                                        1        5         10   Inception
                                                      Year    Year       Year    (9/30/97)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                               <C>       <C>      <C>        <C>
U.S. Small Capitalization                           -6.70%      --         --       -9.66%
 Growth Fund
Russell 2000 Index                                  -2.55%      --         --       -4.67%
* 12b-1 fees apply after December 31, 1998
</TABLE>     

                                                                              10
<PAGE>
 
 
U.S. Bond Fund

Objective
The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income, while controlling risk.

Principal Strategies
The Fund invests primarily in a portfolio of investment-grade fixed income
securities that may also provide the potential for capital appreciation. As a
matter of fundamental policy, under normal circumstances, at least 65% of the
Fund's total assets are invested in U.S. debt securities with an initial
maturity of more than one year.

All selection decisions are made relative to the Salomon Smith Barney Broad
Investment Grade (BIG) Bond Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures
its portfolio.    

Investments in fixed income securities may include:
* Debt securities of the U.S. government, its agencies and instrumentalities
* Debt securities of U.S. corporations
* Zero coupon securities
* Mortgage-backed securities
* Asset-backed securities
* When-issued securities

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Market risk
* Interest rate risk
* Counterparty risk

(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)

The Fund's portfolio turnover rate may exceed 100%.     

Investment-Grade
Fixed income securities possessing a minimum rating of:
* BBB by Standard & Poor's Ratings Group (S&P) or
* Baa by Moody's Investors Services, Inc. (Moody's) or,
* If unrated, are determined to be of comparable quality by
  the Advisor.

Salomon Smith Barney
Broad Investment Grade (BIG) Bond Index
A broad-based index that includes U.S. bonds with over
one year to maturity.

Fund Performance
The chart shows the Fund's performance over the past year. The table compares
the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad measure of market
performance. When you consider this information, please remember that the Fund's
past performance is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the
future.
   
Total Return (for the period ended 12/31)    

[Bar Chart Appears Here]

1998      8.25%     

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

<S>                                             <C>       <C>    <C>        <C>
Best Quarter:                                   Q3 1997   3.52%
Worst Quarter:                                  Q4 1998   1.00%

Average Annual Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31/98)
                                                                            Performance
                                                      1      5         10   Inception
                                                    Year   Year       Year   (6/30/97)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Bond Fund                                     8.25%    --         --        9.93%
Salomon Smith Barney                               8.72%    --         --       10.17%
 BIG Bond Index
</TABLE>      

11
<PAGE>
 
High Yield Fund

Objectives

    
The Fund's primary objective is to provide high current income from a portfolio
of higher-yielding, lower-rated debt securities issued by domestic and foreign
companies. The Fund also seeks capital growth, when consistent with high current
income, by investing in securities, including common stocks and non-income
producing securities, which the Advisor expects will appreciate in value as a
result of declines in long-term interest rates or favorable developments
affecting the business or prospects of the issuer which may improve the issuer's
financial condition and credit rating.

Principal Strategies
The Fund invests primarily in a portfolio of U.S. higher-yielding, lower-rated
bonds:
* Under normal conditions, at least 65% of the Fund's assets are invested in
  fixed income securities that provide higher yields and are "lower-rated"
* Up to 25% of the Fund's assets may be invested in foreign securities     

All selection decisions are undertaken relative to the Merrill Lynch High Yield
Master Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its portfolio.

Investments in fixed income securities may include:
* Debt securities of U.S. corporations
* Zero coupon securities
* Mortgage-backed securities
* Asset-backed securities
* When-issued securities
* Eurodollar securities

    
The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* High Yield Risk
* Credit Risk
* Interest Rate Risk
* Market Risk     
   
(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)    

Lower-Rated Bonds
Bonds rated in the lower rating categories of Moody's and S&P,
including securities rated:
* Ba or lower by Moody's or
* BB or lower by S&P ("high yield securities").
Securities rated in these categories or lower are considered to be
of poor quality and predominantly speculative.

    
Merrill Lynch High Yield Master Index
An index of publicly placed non-convertible, coupon-bearing U.S. domestic debt
with a term to maturity of at least one year.     

Fund Performance
The chart shows the Fund's performance over the past year. The table compares
the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad measure of market
performance. When you consider this information, please remember that the Fund's
past performance is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the
future.
   
Total Return (for the period ended 12/31)    
   
[Bar Chart Appears Here]
1998:     7.75%    

Best Quarter:                                   Q4 1998      4.32%
Worst Quarter:                                  Q3 1998     -2.28%
   
Average Annual Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31/98)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>                                                                        
                                                                                 Performance
                                                  1            5          10      Inception
                                                 Year        Year        Year     (9/30/97)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                             <C>          <C>         <C>     <C>
High Yield Fund                                 7.75%         --          --        8.12%
Merrill Lynch High Yield                        3.66%         --          --        5.04%
 Master Index
</TABLE>
* 12b-1 fees apply after December 31, 1998
    
                                                                              12
<PAGE>
 
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund

Objective
The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income, by investing primarily in the equity securities of global (ex-
U.S.) issuers.

Principal Strategies
Normally, the Fund invests at least 65% of its assets in equity securities of
issuers in at least three countries other than the United States.

Although it may invest anywhere in the world, the Fund invests primarily in the
equity markets listed in the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) World
ex USA (Free) Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its
portfolio.

    
Investments in equity securities may include:
* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Debt securities convertible into or exchangeable for common stock
* Warrants or rights     

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Foreign Country and Currency Risks
* Market Risk
   
(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)    

MSCI World ex USA (Free) Index
An unmanaged, market driven broad based securities index which
includes global (ex-U.S.) equity markets in terms of capitalization 
and performance.

Fund Performance

The chart shows the Fund's performance over the past year. The table compares
the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad measure of market
performance. When you consider this information, please remember that the Fund's
past performance is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the
future.
   
Total Return (for the period ended 12/31)    
   
[Bar Chart Appears Here]
1998:     13.96%    
 
Best Quarter:           Q4 1998    16.86%
Worst Quarter:          Q3 1998   -13.67%
   
Average Annual Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31/98)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                           Performance
                                   1        5       10      Inception
                                  Year     Year    Year     (6/30/97)
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                              <C>       <C>     <C>     <C>

Global (ex-U.S.) Equity          13.96%     --      --        3.58%
 Fund
MSCI World ex USA                18.67%     --      --        5.86%
 (Free) Index
</TABLE>    

13
<PAGE>
 
Risk Considerations

All Fund investments are subject to risk and may decline in value. Each Fund's
exposure depends upon its specific investment practices. The amount and types of
risk vary depending on:

* The investment objective
* The Fund's ability to achieve its objective
* The markets in which the Fund invests
* The investments the Fund makes in those markets
* Prevailing economic conditions over the period of an investment

Please note that there are other circumstances that could adversely affect your
investment and potentially prevent a Fund from achieving its objective.

Counterparty Risk

The risk that when a Fund engages in repurchase, reverse repurchase, derivative,
when-issued, forward commitment, delayed settlement and securities lending
transactions with another party, it relies on the other party to consummate the
transaction and is subject to the risk of default by the other party. Failure of
the other party to complete the transaction may cause the Fund to incur a loss
or to miss an opportunity to obtain a price believed to be advantageous.

Credit Risk

The risk that the issuer of a security, or the counterparty to a contract, will
default or otherwise be unable to honor a financial obligation. Debt securities
rated below investment-grade are especially susceptible to this risk.

    
Derivative Risk     

The risk that downward price changes in a security may result in a loss greater
than a Fund's investment in the security. This risk exists through the use of
certain securities or techniques that tend to magnify changes in an index or
market.

Diversification Risk

The risk that a non-diversified Fund will be more volatile than a diversified
Fund because it invests its assets in a smaller number of issuers. The gains or
losses on a single security or issuer will, therefore, have a greater impact on
the non-diversified Fund's net asset value.

Foreign Country and Currency Risks

The risk that prices of a Fund's investments in foreign securities may go down
because of unfavorable foreign government actions, political instability or the
absence of accurate information about foreign issuers. Also, a decline in the
value of foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar will reduce the value of
securities denominated in those currencies. Foreign securities are sometimes
less liquid and harder to value than securities of U.S. issuers. These risks are
more severe for securities of issuers in emerging market countries.

The World Bank and other international agencies consider a country to be an
"emerging markets" country on the basis of such factors as trade initiatives,
per capita income and level of industrialization. Emerging market countries
generally include every nation in the world except the U.S., Canada, Japan,
Australia, New Zealand and most nations located in Western Europe.

On January 1, 1999, the European Monetary Union (the "EMU") introduced a new
single currency, the Euro, which will replace the national currencies of
participating member nations. If a Fund holds investments in nations with
currencies replaced by the Euro, the investment process, including trading,
foreign exchange, payments, settlements, cash accounts, custody and accounting,
will be impacted. Although it is not possible to fully predict the impact of the
Euro on a Fund, the transition and the elimination of currency risk among
nations participating in the EMU may change the economic environment and
behavior of investors, particularly in European markets.

Geographic Concentration Risk

The risk that if a Fund has most of its investments in a single country or
region, its protfolio will be more susceptible to factors adversely affecting
issuers located in that country or region than would a more geographically
diversified portfolio of securities.

High Yield Risk

The risk that the issuer of bonds with ratings of BB (S&P) or Ba (Moody's) or
below will default or otherwise be unable to honor a financial obligation. These
securities are considered to be of poor standing and are predominantly
speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay
principal in accordance with the terms of the obligations and involve major risk
exposure. Bonds in this category may also be called "high yield bonds" or "junk
bonds."
                                                                              14
<PAGE>
 
Risk Considerations (cont.)

Interest Rate Risk

The risk that changing interest rates may adversely affect the value of an
investment. With fixed-rate securities, an increase in prevailing interest rates
typically causes the value of a Fund's securities to fall, while a decline in
prevailing interest rates may produce an increase in the market value of the
securities. Changes in interest rates will affect the value of longer-term fixed
income securities more than shorter-term securities and lower quality securities
more than higher quality securities.

Market Risk

The risk that the market value of a Fund's investments will fluctuate as the
stock and bond markets fluctuate. Market risk may affect a single issuer,
industry or section of the economy or it may affect the market as a whole.

Prepayment Risk

The risk that issuers will prepay fixed rate obligations when interest rates
fall, forcing the Fund to re-invest in obligations with lower interest rates
than the original obligations.

Small Company Risk

The risk that investments in smaller companies may be more volatile than
investments in larger companies, as smaller companies generally experience
higher growth and failure rates. The trading volume of smaller company
securities is normally lower than that of larger companies. Changes in the
demand for the securities of smaller companies generally has a disproportionate
effect on their market price, tending to make prices rise more in response to
buying demand and fall more in response to selling pressure.

   
The chart below illustrates both primary and secondary risks of investing in the
Funds.    

<TABLE>     
<CAPTION> 
                                                             Foreign   Geographic
                  Counter-                      Diversifi-  Country &   Concen-    High   Interest           Pre-     Small
                   party    Credit  Derivative    cation    Currency    tration    Yield    Rate    Market  payment  Company
<S>               <C>       <C>     <C>         <C>         <C>        <C>         <C>    <C>       <C>     <C>      <C> 
Global Fund          *         *        *                       *          *        *        *        *        *        *
Global
Equity Fund          *                  *                       *          *                          *
Global
Bond Fund            *         *        *            *          *          *                 *        *        *
U.S.
Balanced Fund        *         *        *                                                    *        *        *
U.S.
Equity Fund          *                  *                                                             *
U.S. Large
Capitalization       *                  *            *                                                *
Equity Fund
U.S. Large
Capitalization       *                  *            *          *                                     *
Growth Fund
U.S. Small
Capitalization       *                  *                       *          *                          *                 *
Growth Fund
U.S.
Bond Fund            *         *        *                                                    *        *        *
High
Yield Fund           *         *        *                       *          *         *       *        *        *
Global (ex-U.S.)
Equity Fund          *                  *                       *          *                          *
</TABLE>     

15
<PAGE>
 
Fees and Expenses

The tables below describe the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and
hold shares of the Brinson Funds--Class N shares.

Shareholder Transaction Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)

Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases  None

Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that are deducted from Fund assets, expressed as a % of average net
assets)

<TABLE>     
<CAPTION> 

                                                                                           Amount of         Total Fund  
                                                                                              Fee             Operating
                                                                                             Waiver         Expenses (after
                                                                             Gross           and/or           fee waiver
                               Management      12b-1          Other        Operating        Expense         and/or expense
06/30/98                         Fees/1/     Expenses/4/    Expenses/1/    Expenses/1/   Reimbursement/1/   reimbursement)/1/
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                            <C>           <C>            <C>            <C>           <C>                <C> 
Global Fund                       0.80%        0.25%          0.14%          1.19%           0.00%               1.19%
Global Equity Fund                0.80%        0.25%          0.22%          1.27%           0.02%               1.25%
Global Bond Fund                  0.75%        0.25%          0.21%          1.21%           0.06%               1.15%
U.S. Balanced Fund                0.70%        0.25%          0.11%          1.06%           0.01%               1.05%
U.S. Equity Fund                  0.70%        0.25%          0.10%          1.05%           0.00%               1.05%
U.S. Large Capitalization
 Equity Fund/2/                   0.70%        0.25%          0.89%          1.84%           0.79%               1.05%
U.S. Bond Fund                    0.50%        0.25%          0.34%          1.09%           0.24%               0.85%
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund      0.80%        0.25%          0.20%          1.25%           0.00%               1.25%

(12/31/98)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Large Capitalization
 Growth Fund/3/                   0.70%        0.25%          0.10%          1.05%           0.00%               1.05%
U.S. Small Capitalization
 Growth Fund/3/                   1.00%        0.25%          0.15%          1.40%           0.00%               1.40%
High Yield Fund/3/                0.60%        0.25%          0.10%          0.95%           0.00%               0.95%
</TABLE>

(1) The Advisor has irrevocably agreed to permanently waive its fees and
reimburse certain expenses so that total operating expenses of the Funds do not
exceed the percentages noted in the chart on page 18.

(2) The fees and expenses for the U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund are
based on the period from April 6, 1998 (commencement of operations) to June 30,
1998.

(3) The fees and expenses of the U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, the U.S.
Small Capitalization Growth Fund and High Yield Fund are based on fees and
expenses incurred by three predecessor series, prior to the series'
reorganization, into the Funds (as described in the "Investment Advisor"
section), and have been recalculated and re-stated to take into account the fees
and expenses that the Funds will incur as series of the Trust.

(4) For purposes of this Table, "12b-1 Fees" are comprised of an asset-based
sales charge of 0.25% of average daily net assets for each Fund. See
"Distribution Arrangements" at page 27. Pursuant to rules of the National
Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. ("NASD"), the aggregate initial sales
charges, deferred sales charges and asset-based sales charges on shares of the
Funds may not exceed 6.25% of total gross sales, subject to certain exclusions.
This 6.25% limitation is imposed on the Fund rather than on a per shareholder
basis. Therefore, long-term shareholders of the Brinson Funds may pay more than
the economic equivalent of the maximum front-end sales charges permitted by
NASD. This amount also includes service fees.     

                                                                              16
<PAGE>
 
Fees and Expenses (cont.)

Expense Example

This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the
Brinson Fund--Class N shares to the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The
example assumes that you invest $10,000 in a Fund for the time periods indicated
and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also
assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's
operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs and the return on
your investment may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs
would be:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  1 year        3 years     5 years     10 years
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                               <C>           <C>         <C>         <C>
Global Fund                                        $121          $378        $654        $1,443
Global Equity Fund                                 $127          $397        $686        $1,511
Global Bond Fund                                   $117          $365        $633        $1,398
U.S. Balanced Fund                                 $107          $334        $579        $1,283
U.S. Equity Fund                                   $107          $334        $579        $1,283
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund              $107          $334        $579        $1,283
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund              $107          $334        $579        $1,283
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund              $143          $443        $766        $1,680
U.S. Bond Fund                                     $ 87          $271        $471        $1,049
High Yield Fund                                    $ 97          $303        $525        $1,166
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund                       $127          $397        $686        $1,511
</TABLE>

17
<PAGE>
 
Brinson Partners, Inc.
209 South LaSalle Street
Chicago, Ill 60604-1295

Investment Advisor
    
Brinson Partners Inc., an investment management firm primarily for institutional
accounts, is the investment advisor for the Brinson Funds, as well as for nine
other investment companies. Brinson Partners Inc. and its predecessor entities
have operated under the same investment philosophy and senior management for
over 18 years. Offices are located worldwide:     

Bahrain      Geneva       New York          Sydney
Basel        Hong Kong    Paris             Tokyo 
Chicago      London       Rio de Janeiro    Zurich 
Frankfurt    Melbourne    Singapore

As of December 31, 1998, Brinson Partners Inc. had total assets under management
of approximately $297 billion. Brinson Partners is a wholly-owned subsidiary of
UBS AG (formed by the merger of Union Bank of Switzerland and Swiss Bank
Corporation).

Portfolio Management 

Investment decisions for the Funds are made by an investment management team at
Brinson Partners. No member of the investment management team is primarily
responsible for making recommendations for portfolio purchases.

Advisory Fees

The following chart shows the investment advisory fees payable to Brinson
Partners Inc., before fee waivers, by each Fund during its last fiscal year.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Management Fees Paid
(expressed as a percentage of average net assets)
<S>                                                  <C>
Global Fund                                          0.80%
Global Equity Fund                                   0.80
Global Bond Fund                                     0.75
U.S. Balanced Fund                                   0.70
U.S. Equity Fund                                     0.70
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund                0.70
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund/1/             0.70
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund/1/             1.00
U.S. Bond Fund                                       0.50
High Yield Fund/1/                                   0.60
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund                         0.80
</TABLE>

    
(1) The U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth
Fund and High Yield Fund were created as the result of a reorganizaiton of three
corresponding funds of UBS Private Investor Funds, Inc. into these funds on
December 18, 1998. The same individuals that managed the reorganized funds are
now managing the newly created Funds.

The Advisor has irrevocably agreed to waive its fees and reimburse certain
expenses so that the total operating expenses, with the exception of 12b-1
expenses, of the UBS Investment Funds Class of shares do not exceed the
following amounts for each of the respective Funds:

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
<S>                                      <C>
Global Fund                               1.10%
Global Equity Fund                        1.00
Global Bond Fund                          0.90
U.S. Balanced Fund                        0.80
U.S. Equity Fund                          0.80
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund     0.80
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund/1/  0.80
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund/1/  1.15
U.S. Bond Fund                            0.60
High Yield Fund/1/                        0.70
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund              1.00
</TABLE>     

Year 2000 Issue

Some computer systems will be unable to recognize dates after December 31, 1999.
The Funds' securities trades, pricing and accounting services and other
operations could be adversely affected by the defects in computer systems
utilized by Brinson Partners, or the custodian and transfer agent. Brinson
Partners is taking steps that it believes are reasonably designed to identify
any potential problems with the computer systems it uses. The Funds' other
service providers have told Brinson Partners that they are taking comparable
steps. Brinson Partners does not believe that the Year 2000 issue will have a
material adverse effect on its business operations or results of operations.

The cost of addressing the Year 2000 issue, if substantial, could adversely
affect companies and governments that issue securities held by one or more
Funds. This is particularly true in emerging markets, which have been reported
not to be as prepared as domestic companies and markets for Year 2000. The Year
2000 issue also could cause improperly functioning trading systems in emerging
markets which could cause settlement and liquidity problems. At this point, the
Funds cannot predict the impact on their portfolios of Year 2000 problems in
such markets.

Portfolio Turnover

    
The Funds generally intend to purchase securities for long-term investment.
Portfolio turnover rates are not a factor in making buy and sell decisions.
Increased portfolio turnover may result in higher costs for brokerage
commissions, dealer mark-ups and other transaction costs. It may also result in
taxable capital gains. Higher costs associated with increased portfolio turnover
may offset gains in the Fund's performance.

                                                                              18
<PAGE>
 
Prior Performance of Advisor

    
The following table sets forth the Advisor's composite performance data relating
to the historical performance of institutional private accounts managed by the
Advisor that have investment objectives, policies, strategies and risks
substantially similar to those of the various Funds. The data is provided to
illustrate the past performance of the Advisor in managing investment portfolios
which are substantially similar to each of the applicable Funds as measured
against specified market indices. This performance presentation includes certain
composites of Brinson Partners, Inc. and certain composites of UBS Brinson New
York (formerly UBS Asset Management New York). These two firms are now part of
one organization as a result of a business combination on June 30, 1998. The
portfolio management process and performance measurement are distinct for the
two entities through June 30, 1998. The performance data of each of the Brinson
Funds is also included in the table.

UBS Brinson (the Firm) has prepared and presented this report in compliance with
the Performance Presentation Standards of the Association for Investment
Management and Research (AIMR-PPS/TM/). AIMR has not been involved with the
preparation or review of this report. A list of all Firm composites is available
upon request. The Firm is defined as all portfolios managed and administered
from UBS Brinson's Chicago and New York offices. The effective date of Firm
compliance is January 1, 1993; certain terminated accounts are not included
prior to that date.  

Composites consisting of more than one portfolio are asset weighted by 
beginning-of-period asset values. Investment results for both the Funds and the
composites are time-weighted performance calculations representing total return,
and are calculated in a manner consistent with the U.S. Securities and Exchange
Commission's ("SEC") method of calculating returns. Returns are calculated using
geometric linking of monthly returns. Composites are valued at least monthly,
taking into account cash flows. All realized and unrealized capital gains and
losses, as well as all dividends and interest from investments and cash
balances, are included. Investment transactions are accounted for on a trade
date basis with the exception of selected equity accounts. Prior to January
1996, settlement date accounting was used in these accounts, with trade date
accrual used subsequent to that date. Total returns exclude the impact of
advisor fees, custodial fees, and any other administrative expenses and the
impact of any income taxes an investor might have incurred as a result of
taxable ordinary income and capital gains realized by the account. Investment
returns will be reduced by fees and other expenses incurred. Investment advisory
fees are described in Part II of Form ADV. Upon request, we will furnish
information showing the effect an investment advisory fee would have had on
performance; Due to the graduated nature of fees, as account size increases, the
annual percentage fee will decline.

Results include all actual fee-paying, discretionary client portfolios
including those clients no longer with the Firm. Portfolios are included in the
composite beginning with the first full month of performance to the present or
to the cessation of the client's relationship with the Firm. No alterations of
composites as presented here have occurred due to changes in personnel. Accounts
of all sizes are included in composite performance and no minimum account
relationship size was set for inclusion in the composites as the account size
does not impact portfolio management style. The composites are not subject to
certain expenses, investment limitations, diversification requirements and
restrictions to which the Funds are subject and which are imposed by the
Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "Act") and the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended. Had such expenses, limitations, requirements and restrictions
been applicable to the composites, the performance results would have been
adversely affected. The composite's performance presented does not represent the
historical performance of the Funds and should not be interpreted as indicative
of future performance of the Funds.     

19
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>    


                                                                              Annualized
                                                               One       Two    Three    Five      Ten
                                                              Year      Years   Years    Years    Years
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                           <C>       <C>     <C>      <C>      <C>
Brinson Global Fund Class N/1/                                 8.00       N/A     N/A      N/A      N/A
Global Securities Portfolio/2/                                 8.68      9.79   11.61    11.32    11.97
MSCI World Equity (Free) Index/3,4/                           24.62     20.19   18.06    16.06    11.11
Salomon World Govt. Bond Index/3/                             15.29      7.50    6.20     7.85     8.97
GSMI Mutual Fund Index/3/                                     16.45     15.37   14.42    13.76    12.51
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson Global Equity Fund Class N/1/                         13.63       N/A     N/A      N/A      N/A
Global Equity with Cash Portfolio/2/                          13.79     13.32   14.64    12.84    12.11
MSCI World ex-U.S. Equity (Free) Index/3,4/                   24.62     20.19   18.06    16.06    11.11
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson Global Bond Fund Class N/1/                           11.83       N/A     N/A      N/A      N/A
Global Bond Portfolio/2/                                      13.29      7.46    8.19     7.91     9.62
Salomon World Govt. Bond Index/3/                             15.29      7.50    6.20     7.85     8.97
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson U.S. Balanced Fund Class N/1/                          9.92       N/A     N/A      N/A      N/A
U.S. Balanced Portfolio/2/                                     8.38     11.25   11.62    11.77    12.44
U.S. Balanced Mutual Fund Index/3/                            18.85     21.15   19.03    16.75    15.01
Wilshire 5000 Index/3/                                        23.43     27.30   25.24    21.78    18.11
Salomon Brothers BIG Bond Index/3/                             8.72      9.17    7.29     7.30     9.31
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson U.S. Equity Fund Class N/1/                           17.99       N/A     N/A      N/A      N/A
U.S. Equity Fund/2/                                           16.91     21.42   23.02    21.49    19.28
Wilshire 5000 Index/3/                                        23.43     27.30   25.24    21.78    18.11
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson U.S. Large Capitalization
     Equity Fund Class N/1,6/                                  5.58       N/A     N/A      N/A      N/A
Brinson U.S. Large Capitalization
    Growth Fund Class N/1,6/                                  24.90       N/A     N/A      N/A      N/A
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Portfolio/2/                 21.45     24.28   25.38    23.80    20.61
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Portfolio/2//5/              27.39     27.06   25.34    20.38    18.83
S&P 500 Index/3/                                              28.58     30.95   28.23    24.06    19.21
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson U.S. Small Capitalization
    Growth Fund Class N/1,6/                                  -6.70       N/A     N/A      N/A      N/A
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Portfolio/2//5/             -10.01      4.79   10.17     9.04    14.38
Russell 2000 Index/3/                                         -2.55      9.20   11.58    11.87    12.92
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson U.S. Bond Fund Class N/1/                              8.25       N/A     N/A      N/A      N/A
U.S. Bond Portfolio/2/                                         7.45      8.61    7.06     7.14     9.33
Salomon Smith Barney BIG Index/3/                              8.72      9.17    7.29     7.30     9.31
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson High Yield Fund Class N/1,6/                           7.75       N/A     N/A      N/A      N/A
High Yield Portfolio/2/                                       -6.32      2.75    6.39     5.93     9.60
Merrill Lynch High Yield Master Index/3/                       3.66      8.15    9.11     9.01    11.08
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson Global (ex-U.S.)
    Equity Fund Class N/1/                                    13.96       N/A     N/A      N/A      N/A
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Portfolio/2/                          15.61     10.95   11.75    10.77     9.83
MSCI World ex USA (Free) Index (Unhedged)/3,4/                18.67     10.06    9.06     9.27     5.71
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>     

                                                                              20
<PAGE>
 
Prior Performance of Advisor (cont.)

FOOTNOTES:

    
(1) Total returns include reinvestment of all capital gain and income
distributions. 12b-1 fee applies after June 30, 1997. Inception dates for each
Fund are as follows: Brinson Global Fund Class I, 8/31/92, Brinson Global Equity
Fund Class I, 1/31/94, Brinson Global Bond Fund Class I, 7/31/93, Brinson U.S.
Balanced Fund Class I, 12/31/94, Brinson U.S. Equity Fund Class I, 2/28/94,
Brinson U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund Class I, 4/30/98, Brinson U.S.
Large Capitalization Growth Fund Class I, 9/30/97, Brinson U.S. Small
Capitalization Growth Fund Class I, 9/30/97, Brinson U.S. Bond Fund Class I,
8/31/95, Brinson High Yield Fund Class I, 9/30/97 and Brinson Non-U.S. Equity
Fund Class I, 8/31/93.

(2) Performance figures for the Advisor composites are net of advisory fees and
all expenses. Advisory fees are determined by applying the highest fee schedule
to the composite as of December 31, 1998. Performance figures for the composites
gross of fees are:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              Annualized
                                              ------------------------------------------
                                               One     Two      Three       Five    Ten
                                               Year   Years     Years      Years   Years
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                           <C>     <C>     <C>          <C>     <C>
Global Securities Portfolio                    9.53%  10.64%    12.46%     12.17%  12.82%
Global Equity with Cash Portfolio             14.64   14.17     15.49      13.69   12.96
Global Bond Portfolio                         13.89    8.06      8.79       8.51   10.22
U.S. Balanced Portfolio                        9.13   12.00     12.37      12.52   13.19
U.S. Equity Portfolio                         17.66   22.17     23.79      22.24   20.03
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Portfolio    22.20   25.03     26.13      24.55   21.36
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Portfolio    28.14   27.81     26.09      21.13   19.58
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Portfolio    -9.01    5.79     11.17      10.04   15.38
U.S. Bond Portfolio                            7.85    9.01      7.46       7.54    9.73
High Yield Portfolio                          -5.67    3.40      7.04       6.58   10.25
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Portfolio             16.46   11.80     12.60      11.62   10.68
</TABLE>

(3) GSMI Mutual Fund Index, an unmanaged index compiled by the Advisor,
currently constructed as follow: 40% Wilshire 5000 Index; 22% MSCI Non-U.S.
Equity (Free) Index; 21% Salomon BIG Bond Index; 9% Salomon Non-U.S. Government
Bond Index (unhedged); 2% JP Morgan EMBI+; 3% IFC Investable Index; and 3% High
Yield Bond Index. The composition of the Index has evolved over time and may
change in the future. MSCI World Equity (Free) Index is an unmanaged market
driven broad based index which includes U.S. and non-U.S. equity markets in
terms of capitalization and performance. Salomon World Government Bond Index is
an unmanaged market driven index which measures the broad global fixed income
markets invested in debt issues of U.S. and non-U.S. governments, governmental
entities and supranationals. U.S. Balanced Mutual Fund Index, an unmanaged index
compiled by the Advisor, constructed as follows: 65% Wilshire 5000 Index and 35%
Salomon Brothers Broad Investment Grade (BIG) Bond Index. Wilshire 5000 Index is
an unmanaged broad weighted index which includes all U.S. common stocks. S&P 500
Index is an unmanaged index containing common stocks of 500 industrial,
transportation, utility and financial companies, regarded as generally
representative of the U.S. stock market. Russell 2000 Index is an unmanaged
index that includes 2,000 U.S. small capitalization stocks and is a common
measure of the performance of the small capitalization segment of the U.S. stock
market. Merrill Lynch High Yield Master Index consists of issues which must be
in the form of publicly placed nonconvertible, coupon-bearing U.S. domestic debt
and must carry a term to maturity of at least one year. Issues must be less than
investment grade but not in default, and the index excludes floating rate debt,
equipment trust certificates, and Title 11 securities. Salomon Brothers Broad
Investment Grade (BIG) Bond Index is an unmanaged market driven broad based
index which includes U.S bonds with over one year to maturity. MSCI World ex-
U.S. Equity (Free) Index is an unmanaged market driven broad based index which
includes non-U.S. equity markets in terms of capitalization and performance.

(4) Beginning 1/31/88 these indices represent securities which are freely traded
on equity markets.

(5) Prior to January 1996, settlement date accounting was used in equity
accounts, with trade date accrual used subsequent to that date.

(6) Non-annualized return since performance inception date for the following
Funds: Brinson U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund Class I: 4/30/98, Brinson
Large Capitalization Growth Fund: 10/14/97, Brinson Small Capitalization Growth
Fund: 9/30/97 and Brinson High Yield Fund: 9/30/97.

(7) For additional disclosure, see Appendix A on page 33 of this 
prospectus.     

21 
<PAGE>
 
Pricing of Fund Shares

The Brinson Fund--Class N shares are bought and sold at net asset value (NAV),
which is calculated as of the close of business on each day that the New York
Stock Exchange (NYSE) is open (currently 4:00 p.m. Eastern time). A Fund's
securities are valued based on the last sale price or, where market quotations
are not readily available, are based on fair value as determined in good faith
by the Trust's board of trustees.

Foreign securities are valued at their closing prices on the exchange on which
they are traded. The resulting values are converted from the local currency into
U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. Foreign securities may trade in their
local markets on weekends or other days when a Fund does not price its shares.
Therefore, the NAV of Funds holding foreign securities may change on days when
shareholders will not be able to buy or sell their Fund shares.

How the Funds Calculate NAV

The NAV of a class of shares of a Fund is determined by dividing the value of
the securities and other assets, less liabilities, allocated to the class by the
number of outstanding shares of the class.

Purchase and redemption orders for shares received by the close of regular
trading (currently 4:00 p.m., Eastern time) are priced according to the NAV
determined on that day. Purchase and redemption orders received after the close
of trading are priced according to the next determined price per share. The
Funds reserve the right to change the time at which purchases and redemptions
are priced if the NYSE closes at a time other than 4:00 p.m. Eastern time or if
an emergency exists.

                                                                              22
<PAGE>
 
Purchasing Shares

The minimum initial investment for Fund shares is $1,000,000. The minimum
purchase requirement for IRAs is $2,000. The Funds reserve the right to vary the
investment minimums and subsequent minimums for additional investments at any
time. In addition, Brinson Partners may waive the minimum initial investment
requirement for any investor at its discretion. Purchases may be made in one of
the following ways:

If you have any questions or need further information, call 1-800-448-2430.

By Telephone

Call 1-800-448-2430 to arrange for a telephone transaction.

If you want to make future transactions (e.g., purchase additional shares,
redeem or exchange shares) by telephone, you will need to elect this option
either on the initial application or subsequently in writing.

By Mail           

Complete and sign an application for Class N shares.

Make your check payable to "Brinson __________ Fund -- Class N."

If you are adding to your existing account, enclose the remittance portion of
your account statement and include the amount of investment, account name and
number.

    
Mail your application and/or check to:

The Brinson Funds c/o Transfer Agent
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798     

By Wire

If you are opening a new account, call the Funds at 1-800-448-2430 to arrange
for a wire transaction.

Then wire federal funds to:

The Chase Manhattan Bank

ABA#021000021
DDA#9102-783504
FBO: "Brinson ________ Fund -- Class N" and include your name and new account
number.

Complete and sign an application for Class N shares and mail immediately
following the initial wire transaction to:

    
The Brinson Funds c/o Transfer Agent
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798     

If you are adding to your existing account, you do not need to call the Funds to
arrange for a wire transaction, but be sure to include your name and account
number.

Through Financial
Institutions/
Professionals

    
In some cases, the Funds have entered into one or more Sales Agreements with
brokers, dealers or financial institutions (banks and bank trust departments)
(each an "Authorized Dealer"). The Authorized Dealer, or intermediaries
designated by the Authorized Dealer (a "Sub-designee"), may accept purchase and
redemption orders that are in "good form" on behalf of the Funds. A Fund will be
deemed to have received a purchase or redemption order when the Authorized
Dealer or Sub-designee accepts the order. Such orders will be priced at the
Fund's net asset value next computed after such order is accepted. These
Authorized Dealers may charge the investor a transaction fee or other fee for
their services at the time of purchase. These fees would not be otherwise
charged if you purchase shares directly from the Funds. It is the responsibility
of such broker-dealers or service organizations to promptly forward purchase
orders with payments to the Funds.     

Telephone orders are accepted from broker-dealers or service organizations if
they have been previously approved by the Funds.

Brinson Partners, or its affiliates, may, from its own resources, compensate
broker-dealers or other financial intermediaries ("Service Providers") for
services performed with respect to a Fund's Class N shares. These services may
include marketing, shareholder servicing, recordkeeping and/or other services.
Payments made for any of these purposes may be made from Brinson Partners'
revenues, its profits or any other sources available. When these service
arrangements are in effect, they are generally made available to all qualified
Service Providers.

23
<PAGE>
 
The Funds will not accept a check endorsed over by a third party. The Funds
reserve the right to reject any purchase order and to suspend the offering of
shares of the Brinson Funds. This includes purchase orders that in the
reasonable belief of the Funds, have been made by market timers or short-term
traders.

Exchanging Shares

You can exchange your Class N shares for Class N shares of other Funds.
Exchanges will not be permitted between the Brinson Fund--Class N shares and
either the UBS Investment Funds Class of shares or the Brinson Fund--Class I
shares.

Under certain circumstances, the Funds may:

* Limit the number of exchanges between Funds
* Reject a telephone exchange order
* Modify or discontinue the exchange privilege upon 60 days' written notice

Exchanged Funds are subject to the minimum initial investment requirement. The
procedures that apply to redeeming shares also apply to exchanging shares.

    
An exchange is the sale of shares of one Fund and purchase of shares of another
and could result in taxable gain or loss in a non-tax sheltered account.     

Account Options

The following account options are available. There are no charges for the
programs noted below and you may change or terminate these plans at any time by
written notice to the Funds. For information about participating in these
account options, call the transfer agent at 1-800-448-2430.

Automatic Investment Plan        

Through this option, money can be electronically deducted from your checking,
savings or bank money market accounts and invested in the Funds each month or
quarter.

Complete the Automatic Investment Plan Application, which is available upon
request by calling 1-800-448-2430, and mail it to the address indicated.

The initial $1,000,000 minimum investment still applies, however, subsequent
investments can be as little as $500.

The Funds may alter or terminate the Automatic Investment Plan at any time.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan  

If you have a minimum of $1,000,000 in your account, you may direct the transfer
agent to make payments to you (or anyone you designate) monthly, quarterly or
semi-annually.

Withdrawals are drawn from share redemptions and must be a minimum of $500 per
payment. Under the Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP), you must elect to have
dividends and distributions automatically reinvested in additional Fund shares.

The Funds may terminate any SWP if the value of the account falls below $50,000
due to share redemptions or an exchange of shares for shares of another Class N
Fund.

Individual Retirement Account

You may open an IRA, a tax-deferred retirement account, with the Funds if you
are under age 70-1/2. The minimum purchase requirement for an IRA is $2,000.

                                                                              24
<PAGE>
 
Redeeming Shares

Your shares will be redeemed at the NAV next calculated after your order is
accepted by the Funds' transfer agent in good order. Your order will be
processed promptly and you will generally receive the proceeds within five
business days.

Please note that proceeds for redemption requests made shortly after a recent
purchase by check will be distributed once the check clears, which may take up
to 15 days.

The Funds reserve the right to pay redemptions "in kind" (i.e., payment in
securities rather than in cash) if the amount you are redeeming is large enough
to affect a Fund's operations (for example, if it represents more than $250,000
or 1% of the Fund's assets). In these cases, you might incur brokerage costs
converting the securities to cash.

You may redeem some or all of your shares any day the NYSE is open for business
by doing one of the following (if you have any questions, call the transfer
agent at 1-800-448-2430).

By Telephone     

If you have chosen the telephone redemption privilege on the initial application
or subsequently arranged in writing, you may call 1-800-448-2430 to redeem
shares.

By Mail         

Shareholders may sell shares by making a written request to the Funds:

    
The Brinson Funds c/o Transfer Agent
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798     

Include signatures of all persons required to sign for transactions, exactly as
their name appears on the account application.

To protect your account from fraud, the Funds may require a signature guarantee
for certain redemptions (see "Signature Guarantees" below).

By Bank Wire  

If you have chosen the wire redemption privilege on the initial application or
subsequently arranged in writing, you may request the Funds to wire your
proceeds to a predesignated bank account.

Call 1-800-448-2430.

Wire redemption requests must be received by the transfer agent by 4:00 p.m.
Eastern time for money to be wired the next business day.

Through Financial
Institutionals/
Professionals

Contact your financial institution or professional for more information.

Important note: Each institution or professional may have its own procedures and
requirements for selling shares and may charge fees.

25
<PAGE>
 
Redemption requests should be accompanied by the Fund's name, your Fund account
number and the dollar amount or number of shares to be redeemed. The Fund will
mail a check to your account address or, if you have elected the wire redemption
privilege, the Fund will wire the proceeds to your bank.

Signature Guarantees

To protect your account from fraud, the Fund and its agent may require a
signature guarantee for certain redemptions to verify the identity of the person
who has authorized a redemption from your account. Please contact the Fund for
further information.

Telephone Transactions

You may give up some level of security by choosing to buy or sell shares by
telephone, rather than by mail. The Funds will employ reasonable procedures to
confirm that telephone instructions are genuine. If they do not employ these
procedures, the Funds or the transfer agent may be liable for any losses due to
unauthorized or fraudulent transactions. A written confirmation will be provided
for all purchase, exchange and redemption transactions initiated by telephone.

Transfer of Securities

Under certain circumstances, investors may be permitted to purchase Fund shares
by transferring securities to a separate Fund that meets the original Fund's
investment objective and policies. (Please see the Statement of Additional
Information for more information.)

Dividends and Distributions

Each Fund passes most of its net investment income along to investors in the
form of distributions. All shareholders of a Fund are entitled to a
proportionate share of the Fund's net income and realized capital gains on its
investments.

Net investment income for all of the Funds consists of all dividends and
interest received, less expenses (including fees payable to the Advisor and its
affiliates).

Dividends from net investment income are declared, and paid, by each Fund semi-
annually in June and December. In December, the Funds will distribute
substantially all of their net long-term capital gains and any undistributed net
short-term capital gains realized during the one year period commencing November
1 (or date of the creation of the Fund, if later) and ending October 31. At the
same time, the Funds will distribute all of their net investment income earned
through the end of December and not previously distributed as ordinary (not
capital) income.

Dividends and other distributions paid on each class of shares of a Fund are
calculated at the same time and in the same manner. Dividends on each class
might be affected differently by the allocation of other class-specific
expenses.

    
Unless you notify the transfer agent in writing that you elect to receive your
income dividends and capital gain distributions in cash, all will be reinvested
automatically in additional Fund shares of the same class of a Fund.
Distribution options may be changed at any time by requesting a change in
writing. Dividends are reinvested on the reinvestment date at the net asset
value determined at the close of business on that date. Please note that shares
purchased shortly before the record date for a dividend or distribution may have
the effect of returning capital, although such dividends and distributions are
subject to taxes.     

                                                                              26
<PAGE>
 
Tax Considerations

Following is a brief discussion of the general tax treatment of various
distributions from the Funds. It is not an exhaustive discussion, and your
particular tax status may be different. We encourage you to consult with your
own tax advisor about federal, state and local tax considerations.
    
In general, distributions from a Fund are taxable to you as either ordinary
income or capital gains. This is true whether you invest your distributions in
additional shares of a Fund or receive them in cash. Any capital gains
distributed by a Fund are taxable to you as long-term capital gains no matter
how long you have owned your shares. The rate of tax will generally depend on
how long the Fund held the securities on which it realized the gains.     

When you sell or exchange your shares of a Fund, you may have a capital gain or
loss. The tax rate on any gain from the sale or exchange of your shares depends
on how long you have held your shares.
    
Fund distributions and gains from the sale or exchange of your shares will
generally be subject to state and local income tax. Foreign investors may be
subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax.

If any of the following situations apply to you, the Funds will be required by
the IRS to withhold 31% of your taxable distributions:

* you do not provide your correct taxpayer identification number, or
* you do not certify that such number is correct, or
* if the IRS instructs the Fund to do so


Buying a Dividend

If you buy shares in a Stock Fund just before the Fund makes any distribution,
or if you buy shares in any Bond Fund just prior to a capital gain distribution,
you will receive some of the purchase price back in the form of a taxable
distribution.

Shareholders will be advised annually of the source and the tax status of all
Fund distributions for federal income tax purposes.

Distribution Arrangements

The Funds have adopted a distribution plan under rule 12b-1 of the Investment
Company Act of 1940 to compensate Brinson Partners, Funds Distributor Inc. and
others for distributing and promoting sales of the Brinson Fund--Class N shares.
Annual fees paid under the plan may not exceed 0.25% of the average daily net
assets of each Fund's Class N shares. Because these distribution and service
fees are paid out of the assets of each share class' 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.

Multiple Classes

The Funds are a series of The Brinson Funds, a Delaware business trust, and
currently offer three classes of shares: the Brinson Funds--Class I, Brinson
Funds--Class N and UBS Investment Funds Class of shares.

27
<PAGE>
 
Financial Highlights

    
The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand a Fund's
financial performance for the past five years (or, if shorter, the period of the
Fund's operations). Certain information reflects financial results for a single
Fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor
would have earned (or lost) on an investment in each Fund (assuming reinvestment
of all dividends and distributions).

Global Fund, Global Equity Fund, Global Bond Fund, U.S. Balanced Fund, U.S.
Equity Fund, U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund, U.S. Bond Fund and Global
(ex-U.S.) Equity Fund

The selected financial information in the following table has been audited by
the Funds' independent auditors, whose unqualified reports thereon (the
"Reports") appear in the Funds' Annual Report to Shareholders dated June 30,
1998 (the "Annual Report"). In addition, the table includes unaudited
financial information for the period ended December 31, 1998, which is included
in the Funds' Semi-Annual Report to Shareholders (the "Semi-Annual Report")
dated December 31, 1998. Additional performance and financial data and related
notes are contained in the Annual Report and the Semi-Annual Report, which are
available without charge upon request. The Funds' Financial Statements for the
fiscal year ended June 30, 1998 and the Reports, as well as the Semi-Annual
Report, are incorporated by reference into the Statement of Additional
Information.

U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund and
High Yield Fund

The U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, the U.S. Small Capitalization Growth
Fund and the High Yield Fund (collectively, the "New Funds") are successors to
the UBS Large Cap Growth Fund, the UBS Small Cap Fund and the UBS High Yield
Bond Fund, respectively (collectively, the "Predecessor Funds"). Each
Predecessor Fund, prior to its merger into a New Fund, operated as a separate
portfolio of UBS Private Investor Funds, Inc., another investment company that
was advised by another entity. The Predecessor Funds had fiscal years ending on
December 31. On December 18, 1998, following the approval of the shareholders of
each Predecessor Fund of an agreement and plan of reorganization, the UBS Large
Cap Growth Fund, the UBS Small Cap Fund and the UBS High Yield Bond Fund were
reorganized and merged into the U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, the U.S.
Small Capitalization Growth Fund and the High Yield Fund, respectively. (These
transactions are collectively referred to as the "Reorganizations.") The New
Funds had no operations prior to the Reorganizations.

The selected financial information in the following table, for the year ended
December 31, 1998, has been audited by the Funds' independent auditors, whose
unqualified reports on the financial statements containing such information (the
"New Funds' Reports") appear in the New Funds' Annual Report to Shareholders
dated December 31, 1998 (the "New Funds' Annual Report"). The selected financial
information in the following table for the year ended December 31, 1997 has been
audited by the Predecessor Funds' independent auditors, whose unqualified
reports on the financial statements containing such information (the
"Predecessor Funds' Reports") appear in the Predecessor Funds' Annual Report to
Shareholders dated December 31, 1997 (the "Predecessor Funds' Annual Report").
Additional performance and financial data and related notes are contained in the
New Funds' Annual Report and the Predecessor Funds' Annual Reports
(collectively, the "New Funds' and Predecessor Funds' Reports"), which are
available without charge upon request. The New Funds' financial statements for
the fiscal year ended December 31, 1998 and the Predecessor Funds' financial
statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997, and the New Funds' and
Predecessor Funds' Reports, are incorporated by reference into the Statement of
Additional Information.    
                                                                              28
<PAGE>
 
Financial Highlights (cont.)

    
Financial Highlights--Fiscal Years Ended June 30 and December 31

The following table presents financial data relating to a share of beneficial
interest outstanding throughout the periods presented. This information has been
derived from the Funds' and the Predecessor Funds' financial statements.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                  Income (Loss) from Investment
                                                           Operations                                Less Distributions
                                                 ------------------------------               ---------------------------------
                                                                                              Distributions       Distributions
                                                                                  Total          from and           from and 
                                   Net asset          Net           Net           income         in excess          in excess     
                                    value--         Invest-     realized and    (loss) from       of net             of net   
                                   beginning         ment        unrealized      investment     investment          realized  
Year                               of period        income       gain (loss)     operations       income              gain   
<S>                                <C>              <C>         <C>             <C>           <C>                 <C>

BRINSON GLOBAL FUND--Class N (Commencement of Operations June 30, 1997)
1998                                $13.13           0.63           0.32           0.95           (0.63)              (0.70)
1998 (December 31, 1998 unaudited)  $12.75           0.14           0.08           0.22           (0.36)              (0.83) 

BRINSON GLOBAL EQUITY FUND--Class N (Commencement of Operations June 30, 1997)
1998                                $12.76           0.13           0.82           0.95           (0.13)              (1.05) 
1998 (December 31, 1998 unaudited)  $12.53           0.03           0.29           0.32           (0.12)              (0.18)

BRINSON GLOBAL BOND FUND--Class N (Commencement of Operations June 30, 1997)
1998                                $ 9.64           0.42/2/       (0.20)          0.22           (0.29)              (0.17) 
1998 (December 31, 1998 unaudited)  $ 9.40           0.18/1/        0.77           0.95           (0.38)              (0.08)   

BRINSON U.S. BALANCED FUND--Class N (Commencement of Operations June 30, 1997)
1998                                $12.53           0.47/2/        0.94           1.41           (0.73)              (0.94)
1998 (December 31, 1998 unaudited)  $12.27           0.19/1/        0.23           0.42           (0.62)              (2.65) 

BRINSON U.S. EQUITY FUND--Class N (Commencement of Operations June 30, 1997)
1998                                $17.64           0.15           3.37           3.52           (0.15)              (1.13) 
1998 (December 31, 1998 unaudited)  $19.88           0.07/2/        0.67           0.74           (0.10)              (1.07) 

BRINSON U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION EQUITY FUND--Class N (Commencement of Operations April 6, 1998)
1998                                $10.00           0.02          (0.23)         (0.21)          (0.01)                --    
1998 (December 31, 1998 unaudited)  $ 9.78           0.04           0.54           0.58           (0.05)                --    

BRINSON U.S. BOND FUND--Class N (Commencement of Operations June 30, 1997)
1998                                $10.24           0.61           0.42           1.03           (0.55)              (0.14)  
1998 (December 31, 1998 unaudited)  $10.58           0.34/2/        0.14           0.48           (0.26)              (0.15) 

BRINSON GLOBAL (EX-U.S.) EQUITY FUND/3/--Class N (Commencement of Operations June 30, 1997)
1998                                $12.59           0.16           0.29           0.45           (0.16)              (0.74) 
1998 (December 31, 1998 unaudited)  $12.14           0.02           0.08           0.10           (0.04)              (0.12) 
</TABLE>

(1) Annualized.

(2) The net investment income per share data was determined by using average
shares outstanding throughout the period.

(3) The Brinson Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund changed its name from the Brinson
Non-U.S. Equity Fund on December 10, 1998. During the fiscal year ended June 30,
1998, the Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund had total borrowings of $32,600,000
outstanding for 1 day (June 29, 1998) under the Trust's agreement with The Chase
Manhattan Bank to provide a
29
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                                                          RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
                                                                          -------------------------
                                                                                             Ratio of Net
                                                               Ratio of Expenses           Investment Income
                                                                to Average Net              to Average Net
                                                                    Assets                      Assets
                                                               -----------------           ----------------

                         Net                       Net
                        asset       Total        assets,       Before       After         Before        After
             Total     value-      Return        end of       expense      expense       expense       expense       Portfolio
           Distribu-   end of       (non-        period      reimburse-   reimburse-    reimburse-    reimburse-     turnover
             tions     period    annualized)    (in 000s)       ment         ment          ment          ment          rate
<S>        <C>        <C>        <C>            <C>          <C>         <C>            <C>           <C>            <C>
          (1.33)      $ 12.75        7.90 %     $ 1,163         1.19%        N/A           2.45%        N/A            88%
          (1.19)      $ 11.78        1.88 %     $ 1,521         1.20%/1/     N/A           1.95%        N/A            41%
          (1.18)      $ 12.53        8.60 %     $     1         1.27%       1.25%          1.04%       1.06%           46%
          (0.30)      $ 12.55        2.68 %     $   206         1.30%/1/    1.25%/1/       0.41%/1/    0.46%/1/        49%
          (0.46)      $  9.40        2.37 %     $     9         1.21%       1.15%          4.22%       4.28%          151%
          (0.46)      $  9.89       10.13 %     $   106         1.15%/1/     N/A           3.98%/1/     N/A            49%
          (1.67)      $ 12.27       12.15 %     $     1         1.06%       1.05%          3.63%       3.64%          194%
          (3.27)      $  9.42        3.61 %     $     1         1.19%/1/    1.05%/1/       2.83%/1/    2.97%//1/       65%
          (1.28)      $ 19.88       21.10 %     $   268         1.05%        N/A           0.87%        N/A            42%
          (1.17)      $ 19.45        4.00 %     $ 4,337         1.05%/1/     N/A           0.61%/1/     N/A            17%
          (0.01)      $  9.78       (2.02)%     $16,033         1.84%/1/    1.05%/1/       0.27%/1/    1.06%/1/        12%
          (0.05)      $ 10.31        5.97 %     $12,704         1.65%/1/    1.05%/1/       0.25%/1/    0.85%/1/        19%
          (0.69)      $ 10.58       10.30 %     $     1         1.09%       0.85%          5.36%       5.60%          198%
          (0.41)      $ 10.65        4.53 %     $     1         0.89%/1/    0.85%/1/       5.05%/1/    5.09%/1/       140%
          (0.90)      $ 12.14        4.51 %     $    11         1.25%        N/A           1.27%        N/A            49%
          (0.16)      $ 12.08        0.88 %     $    13         0.38%        N/A           1.24%        N/A            37%

</TABLE> 

364-day $100 million committed line of credit. The Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund
had 36,449,018.679 shares outstanding on June 29, 1998, and the amount of debt
per share was $12.05. At June 30, 1998, the Fund had no debt outstanding.

N/A = Not Applicable     

                                                                              30
<PAGE>
 
Financial Highlights (cont.)

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                                  Income (Loss) from Investment
                                                           Operations                                Less Distributions
                                                 ------------------------------               ---------------------------------
                                                                                              Distributions       Distributions
                                                                                  Total          from and           from and 
                                   Net asset          Net           Net           income         in excess          in excess     
                                    value--         Invest-     realized and    (loss) from       of net             of net   
                                   beginning         ment        unrealized      investment     investment          realized  
Year                               of period        income       gain (loss)     operations       income              gain   
<S>                                <C>              <C>         <C>             <C>           <C>                 <C>

BRINSON U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND/4//6/ -- Class N (Commencement of Operations October 14,1997)/7/
1997/5/                             $10.00           0.02          (0.08)         (0.06)          (0.02)                --
1998                                $ 9.92           0.06           2.38           2.44           (0.06)              (0.46)

BRINSON U.S. SMALL CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND/4//6/ -- Class N (Commencement of Operations September 30, 1997)/7/
1997/5/                             $10.00            --           (0.08)         (0.06)            --                  --    
1998                                $ 9.44          (0.02)         (0.57)         (0.59)            --                (0.05)

BRINSON HIGH YIELD FUND/4//6/ -- Class N (Commencement of Operations September 30, 1997)/7/
1997/5/                             $10.00           0.18           0.05           0.23           (0.18)                -- 
1998                                $10.05           7.30           0.02           7.32           (7.33)              (0.06)
</TABLE>

(1) Annualized.

(2) The net investment income per share data was determined by using average
shares outstanding throughout the period.

(3) The Brinson Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund changed its name from the Brinson
Non-U.S. Equity Fund on December 10, 1998. During the fiscal year ended June 30,
1998, the Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund had total borrowings of $32,600,000
outstanding for 1 day (June 29, 1998) under the Trust's agreement with The Chase
Manhattan Bank to provide a 364-day $100 million committed line of credit. The
Global(ex-U.S.) Equity Fund had 36,449,018.679 shares outstanding on June 29,
1998, and the amount of debt per share was $12.05. At June 30, 1998, the Fund
had no debt outstanding.

(4) The information provided in this table does not reflect Rule 12b-1 plan
expenses, as the Predecessor Funds were not subject to such expenses.

(5) For the period from commencement of operations to December 31, 1997.

(6) Prior to the Reorganizations, each of these Series operated as a separate
portfolio of UBS Private Investor Funds, Inc. and invested all of its
respective investable assets in an affiliated investment company with an
identical investment objective. The U.S. Large    

31
<PAGE>
 

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                            RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
                                                             -------------------------------------------------------
                                                                   Ratio of Net
                                                                 Ratio of Expenses            Investment income
                                                                  to Average Net                to Average Net
                                                                      Assets                        Assets
                                                             -------------------------    --------------------------

                        Net                        Net
                       asset        Total        assets,       Before         After         Before          After
            Total     value-       Return        end of       expense        expense       expense         expense        Portfolio
          Distribu-   end of        (non-        period      reimburse-     reimburse-    reimburse-      reimburse-      turnover
            tions     period     annualized)    (in 000s)       ment           ment          ment            ment           rate
<S>       <C>           <C>      <C>            <C>          <C>            <C>            <C>            <C>             <C>
            (0.02)    $  9.92      (0.55)%      $  4,137        8.54%/1,6/     1.00%/1,6/   (6.19)%/1,6/     1.35 %/1,6/     N/A
            (0.52)    $ 11.84      24.90 %      $  4,147        2.76%          0.99%        (1.40)%          0.37 %          N/A

               --     $  9.44      (5.62)%      $ 11,954        3.63%/1,6/     1.20%/1,6/   (2.53)%/1,6/    (0.10)%/1,6/     N/A
            (0.05)    $  8.80      (6.70)%      $ 22,607        1.69%          1.20%        (0.76)%         (0.27)%          N/A

            (0.18)    $ 10.05       2.34 %      $  7,861/1/     4.98%/1,6/     0.90%/1,6/    3.15 %/1,6/     7.23 %/1,6/     N/A
            (7.39)    $  9.98       7.75 %      $ 34,900        1.59%          0.89%         7.38 %          8.08 %          N/A
</TABLE>

Capitalization Growth Fund invested solely in the UBS Investor Portfolios 
Trust--UBS Large Cap Growth Portfolio; the U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund
invested solely in the UBS Investor Portfolios Trust--UBS Small Cap Portfolio;
and the High Yield Fund invested solely in the UBS Investor Portfolios Trust--
UBS High Yield Bond Portfolio. The funds in which each of these Series invested
are referred to herein as the "Master Funds." The ratios set forth in this
Financial Highlights table for each of these Series include the Series' share of
its respective Master Fund's expenses. The annualization of these ratios is
affected by the fact that the Investment Advisory Agreement and Investment Sub-
Advisory Agreement to which these Series were subject prior to the
Reorganizations were not ratified until December 29, 1997. Prior to that date,
investment advisory services were being provided without compensation.

(7) Reflects 10 for 1 share split effective December 9, 1998.
N/A=Not Applicable

                                                                              32

<PAGE>
 
Appendix A

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                                     As of December 31, 1998
Brinson Partners, Inc.                         Number of Accounts      Assets       Percentage of    Highest Annual
Composite Name                                   per Composite       ($ million)     Firm Assets      Fee on Assets
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                            <C>                   <C>            <C>              <C>
Global Equity Portfolio                                1                   7               0              0.85%
Global Bond Portfolio                                  1                 110             0.1              0.60%
U.S. Balanced Portfolio                                1                 154             0.1              0.75%
U.S. Equity Portfolio                                  1                3529             3.4              0.75%
U.S. Bond Portfolio                                    1                2301             2.2              0.40%
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Portfolio                      1                3299             3.2              0.85%
Global Mutual Fund                                     1                 511             0.5               N/A
Global Equity Mutual Fund                              1                  74             0.1               N/A
Global Bond Mutual Fund                                1                 124             0.1               N/A
U.S. Balanced Mutual Fund                              1                  45             0.0               N/A
U.S. Equity Mutual Fund                                1                 766             0.7               N/A
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Mutual Fund           1                  22             0.0               N/A
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Mutual Fund           1                   4             0.0               N/A
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Mutual Fund           1                  23             0.0               N/A
U.S. Bond Mutual Fund                                  1                  96             0.1               N/A
High Yield Mutual Fund                                 1                  35             0.0               N/A
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Mutual Fund                    1                 493             0.5               N/A
</TABLE> 

(1) The composites presented in this report are single entity composites or the
assets of a single client. As such, internal dispersion for all periods is zero
and is not presented in this report. AIMR-PPS (TM) states that pooled funds,
including unit trusts (or collective funds) may be treated as separate
composites. As such, this report presents the composite performance results of
collective funds only and does not include separately managed accounts.
Composites for separately managed accounts are available upon request.

N/A = Not Applicable

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
 
US Brinson New York                            Number of Accounts      Assets       Percentage of    Highest Annual
Composite Name                                   per Composite       ($ million)     Firm Assets      Fee on Assets
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                            <C>                   <C>            <C>              <C> 
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Portfolio             18                616             0.6              0.75%
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Portfolio              4                205             0.2              1.00%
High Yield Portfolio                                    3                134             0.1              0.65%
</TABLE> 

(2) Internal dispersion is calculated as the equally-weighted annual standard
deviation within a composite consisting of at least five accounts with full year
returns.

U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Equity: 1988, 5.91%; 1989, 4.87%; 1990, 0.54%;
1991, 11.55%; 1992, 3.68%; 1993, 5.21%; 1994, 5.49%; 1995, 3.07%; 1996, 1.02%;
1997, 2.86%.

U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Equity: Dispersion for only 1995, 2.06%.

High Yield: 1993, 0.64%; 1994, 1.42%; 1995, 1.10%; 1996, 0.85%; 1997, 
0.18%.     

33
<PAGE>
 
    
Historical Annual Returns (as of December 31 each year)

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
Name                        1998      1997      1996      1995      1994      1993      1992      1991      1990      1989
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                        <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C>       <C> 
Global Equity Portfolio    14.64%    13.70%    18.19%    22.36%     0.75%    17.82%     5.27%    22.95%    -6.28%    24.63%
Global Bond Portfolio      13.89%     2.54%    10.27%    21.15%    -3.56%    11.19%     9.09%    20.12%    10.77%     8.98%
U.S. Balanced Portfolio     9.13%    14.94%    13.13%    27.28%    -0.16%    11.89%    10.04%    23.48%     4.41%    20.54%
U.S. Equity Portfolio      17.66%    26.86%    27.04%    42.41%     1.05%    17.47%    16.16%    36.59%    -8.46%    33.37%
U.S. Bond Portfolio         7.85%    10.19%     4.44%    18.62%    -2.29%    10.60%     8.13%    18.30%     9.35%    13.73%
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity                                                                                             
 Portfolio                 16.46%     7.33%    14.21%    17.63%     3.20%    23.88%    -2.54%    17.68%    -8.19%    22.04%
Global Mutual Fund          8.32%    11.00%    14.10%    24.14%    -1.89%    11.15%     3.29%*      --        --        --
Global Equity Mutual Fund  14.03%    10.72%    17.26%    21.93%    -4.35%*      --        --        --        --        --
Global Bond Mutual Fund    11.98%     1.63%     9.30%    20.32%    -3.49%     3.86%*      --        --        --        --
U.S. Balanced Mutual Fund   9.92%    13.22%    11.32%    25.48%       --        --        --        --        --        --
U.S. Equity Mutual Fund    18.57%    24.76%    25.65%    40.58%    -1.63%*      --        --        --        --        --
U.S. Large Capitalization                                                                                           
 Equity Mutual Fund         5.87%*      --        --        --        --        --        --        --        --        --
U.S. Large Capitalization                                                                                           
 Growth Mutual Fund        24.90%    -0.55%*      --        --        --        --        --        --        --        --
U.S. Small Capitalization                                                                                           
 Growth Mutual Fund        -6.70%    -5.62%*      --        --        --        --        --        --        --        --
U.S. Bond Mutual Fund       8.37%     9.64%     3.53%     5.49%*      --        --        --        --        --        --
High Yield Mutual Fund      7.75%     2.34%*      --        --        --        --        --        --        --        --
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity                                                                                             
  Mutual Fund              14.39%     5.74%    12.75%    15.55%     0.94%    -3.45%*      --        --        --        --
</TABLE>

*Represents partial-year performance.  Returns are not annualized.     

                                                                              34
<PAGE>
 
    
For More Information

More information on The Brinson Funds is available free upon request:

Shareholder Reports
Additional information about the Funds' investments is available in the Funds'
annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders. In the Funds' annual report, you
will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that
significantly affected each Fund's performance during its last fiscal year.

Statement Of Additional Information (SAI)
The SAI provides more details about each Fund and its policies. The SAI is on
file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and is incorporated by
reference into (is legally considered part of) this prospectus.




TO OBTAIN INFORMATION:

BY TELEPHONE
Call 1-800-448-2430

By Mail
The Brinson Funds
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798

By Email
[email protected]

On The Internet
Text-only versions of the prospectus and other documents pertaining to the Funds
can be viewed online or downloaded from:

  SEC: http://www.sec.gov

  Brinson Partners: http://www.ubsbrinson.com

Information about the Funds (including the SAI) can also be reviewed and copied
at the SEC's public reference room in Washington, DC (phone 1-800-SEC-0330). Or,
you can obtain copies of this information by sending a request, along with a
duplicating fee, to the SEC's Public Reference Section, Washington, DC 20549-
6009.

The Funds are series of The Brinson Funds;
Registration Number: 811-6637     

                                                                              35
<PAGE>
 
                                         [UBS Logo]

                                         Investment Funds

                                           Prospectus
                                           May 3, 1999

                                           Global Fund
                                           Global Equity Fund
                                           Global Bond Fund
                                           U.S. Balanced Fund
                                           U.S. Equity Fund
                                           U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund
                                           U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund
                                           U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund
                                           U.S. Bond Fund
                                           High Yield Fund
                                           Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund



                                     As with any mutual fund, the Securities and
                                     Exchange Commission (SEC) has not approved
                                     or disapproved of these securities or
                                     determined whether this prospectus is
                                     adequate or complete. Any representation to
                                     the contrary is a criminal offense.

[UBS Logo]
 
Investment Funds
P.O. Box 2798 . Boston, MA 02208-2798
Tel: 1-800-794-7753
<PAGE>
 
Table of Contents

The Brinson Investment Process                               2
    
Overview of the Funds      
  Global Fund                                                3
  Global Equity Fund                                         4
  Global Bond Fund                                           5
  U.S. Balanced Fund                                         6
  U.S. Equity Fund                                           7
  U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund                      8
  U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund                      9
  U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund                     10
  U.S. Bond Fund                                            11
  High Yield Fund                                           12
  Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund                              13
Risk Considerations                                         14
Fees and Expenses                                           16
Investment Advisor                                          18
Prior Performance of Advisor                                19
Pricing of Fund Shares                                      22
Purchasing Shares                                           23
Redeeming Shares                                            25
Dividends and Distributions                                 26
Tax Considerations                                          27
Distribution Arrangements                                   28
Financial Highlights                                        29
Appendix A                                                  35
For More Information                                        37
<PAGE>
 
    
Overview of the Funds      
 
The investment objective of each Fund is "fundamental" and may be changed only
with shareholder approval. Unless otherwise stated, each Fund's investment
policies are not fundamental and may be changed by the Funds' Trustees without a
shareholder vote. There can be no assurance that the Funds will be able to
attain their objectives.

Each Fund's primary investment practices and strategies are discussed in this
prospectus. Other practices, and their related risks, are described in the
Statement of Additional Information (SAI).
    
Each Fund's principal risks and strategies are provided within the Fund
descriptions that follow. Principal and secondary risks are discussed in detail
under "Risk Considerations" on page 14.

The Brinson Funds strongly discourages market timers and short-term traders from
investing in the Funds. Shares of The Brinson Funds are not bank deposits and
are not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. The
value of your investment in a Fund will fluctuate, which means that you may lose
money.     

A Look At The Brinson Investment Process
    
At Brinson Partners, we employ a global asset allocation strategy, actively
diversifying investments within and across all major asset classes.  Our
investment decisions are based on fundamental research, internally developed
valuation systems and seasoned judgement. Our philosophy is that the
determination of fundamental investment value within the context of a globally
integrated economy is the focus of all investment decisions. World economies and
financial markets are interactive. Thus, investment management, both within and
across global stock and bond markets, must be based upon comprehensive knowledge
and analyses of integrated investment fundamentals.

Our investment style has a single focus--investment fundamentals determine and
describe future cash flows that, for us, define investment value. It is our
belief that periodically there are important exploitable discrepancies between
market price and investment value. The price/value discrepancies then become the
building blocks for portfolio construction. Portfolio structure is focused on
both risk and return considerations in the context of full long-term investment
cycles.

Another aspect of Brinson Partners' approach is the management of a portfolio of
securities against a selected benchmark. If we are indifferent among markets, we
tend toward the normal weight, as determined by the proportion of each market in
the benchmark. Decisions to deviate from the normal mix of assets are a blend of
rigorous quantitative analysis, an understanding of the fundamental
relationships among global markets and the expertise of our investment
professionals. All security selection decisions for a Fund are made in relation
to the benchmark, each of which is more fully described in each Fund's
description that follows. The benchmark for each Fund is an index consisting of
securities that are representative of that Fund's investments. From time to
time, we may substitute securities from an equivalent index that we believe more
accurately reflects changes in our expectations for various markets.

Equity Selections
Our equity portfolio construction process focuses on the four layers of equity
management that best explain portfolio performance: market sensitivity, common
factor exposures, industry weightings and individual stock selection. Securities
are chosen from an extensive list of companies in all major markets and
industries. Stock selection is based on fundamental analysis, often
incorporating quantitative models. The security selection decision seeks out
medium-to-larger capitalization issues in each country that are attractively
priced relative to underlying fundamental value. Research focuses on the ability
of individual companies to generate profits. We also analyze industry
competitive strategy, structure and global integration. We visit management to
understand company goals and their competitive strategies.

Fixed Income Selections
We use an internally developed valuation model for our Fixed Income portfolios,
which quantifies our return expectations for all of the bond markets. Inputs to
this model include forecasts of inflation, risk premiums and interest rates. Our
credit review process incorporates both a top-down strategy, which focuses on
how macroeconomic forces shape various industry outlooks, and a bottom-up
strategy which relies on a combination of qualitative and quantitative factors.
Our qualitative assessment focuses on management strength, market position,
competitive environment, and financial flexibility. Our quantitative assessment
focuses on historical operating results, calculation of various credit ratios
and an expected future outlook. With the exception of the High Yield Fund, the
Fixed Income Funds generally invest in all categories of investment grade fixed
income securities, but emphasize the higher quality securities in this spectrum
(those with a credit rating of AA and above.) Our fixed income strategies
combine judgments about the absolute value of the fixed income universe and the
relative value of issuer sectors, maturity intervals, quality and coupon
segments and specific fixed income securities.     

                                                                               2

<PAGE>
 
Global Fund

Objective
The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income.

Principal Strategies
    
The Fund invests primarily in a portfolio of global equity and fixed income
securities. At least 65% of the Fund's assets are invested in securities of
issuers in at least three countries (which may include the United States).

All security selection decisions are made relative to the Global Securities
Markets Index (GSMI) Mutual Fund Index, the benchmark against which the Fund
measures its portfolio.     

Although it may invest anywhere in the world, the Fund invests primarily in:
* Equity markets listed in the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) World
Equity (Free) Index
* Fixed income markets listed in the Salomon Smith Barney World Government Bond
Index
    
Other investments may include:
* Eurodollar securities, which are fixed income securities of a U.S. issuer or a
foreign issuer that are issued outside the U.S.
* Other open-end investment companies advised by Brinson Partners
* Emerging markets securities

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Market Risk
* Foreign Country and Currency Risks
* Geographic Concentration Risk
* Credit Risk

(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)

The Fund's portfolio turnover rate may exceed 100%.     

    
GSMI Mutual Fund Index
An unmanaged index compiled by Brinson Partners, currently constructed as
follows: 40% Wilshire 5000 Index 3% Merrill Lynch High Yield

22% MSCI World ex USA              Master Index

    (Free) Index  3% IFC Investable Index

21% Salomon Smith Barney   2% JPMorgan EMBI+

    BIG Bond Index

9% Salomon non-U.S. Gov't.

    Bond Index     

From time to time, such underlying indices may change.     

MSCI World Equity (Free) Index

A broad based securities index that represents the U.S. and global (ex-U.S.)
equity markets in terms of capitalization and performance. It is designed to
provide a representative total return for all major stock exchanges located
inside and outside the United States.

Salomon Smith Barney World Government Bond Index
A securities index that represents the broad global fixed income markets and
includes debt issues of U.S. and global (ex-U.S.) governments.
    
Fund Performance
The chart and table which follow give an indication of the Fund's risks and
performance. The chart shows you how the Fund's performance has varied from year
to year. The table compares the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad
measure of market performance. When you consider this information, please
remember that the Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of
how it will perform in the future.

Year-by-Year Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31)     
    
[Graph appears here]
1996:     13.54%
1997:     10.20%
1998:      7.60%     

Best Quarter:             Q2 1997     8.12%
Worst Quarter:            Q3 1998    -5.51%
    
Average Annual Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31/98)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                Performance
                                       1         5       10      Inception
                                      Year      Year    Year     (7/31/95)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                  <C>        <C>     <C>     <C>
Global Fund                           7.60%      --      --       11.74%
MSCI World Equity (Free) Index       24.62%      --      --       17.54%
Salomon Smith Barney World           15.29%      --      --        5.92%
  Gov't. Bond Index
GSMI Mutual Fund Index               16.45%      --      --       14.69%
</TABLE>     
3
<PAGE>
 

Global Equity Fund 

Objective
The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income.

Principal Strategies
    
The Fund invests primarily in a portfolio of global equity securities. At least
65% of the Fund's assets are invested in securities of issuers in at least three
countries (which may include the United States).     

Although it may invest anywhere in the world, the Fund invests primarily in
equity markets listed in the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) World
Equity (Free) Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its
portfolio.
    
Investments in equity securities may include:
* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Convertible securities (those that are convertible into equity securities)
* Warrants

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Market Risk
* Foreign Country and Currency Risks

(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)      

MSCI World Equity (Free) Index
A broad based securities index that represents the U.S. and global (ex-U.S.)
equity markets in terms of capitalization and performance. It is designed to
provide a representative total return for all major stock exchanges located
inside and outside the United States.

Fund Performance

The chart and table below give an indication of the Fund's risks and
performance. The chart shows you how the Fund's performance has varied from year
to year. The table compares the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad
measure of market performance. When you consider this information, please
remember that the Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of
how it will perform in the future.
    
Year-by-Year Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31) 

[Graph Appears Here]
1996:     16.31%
1997:      9.86%
1998:     13.17%     
 
Best Quarter:                Q4 1998   14.11%
Worst Quarter:               Q3 1998  -10.23%
    
Average Annual Total Return (for the periods ended 7/31/95)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      Performance
                             1         5       10      Inception
                            Year      Year    Year     (7/31/95)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                        <C>        <C>     <C>     <C>
Global Equity Fund         13.17%      --      --       14.51%
MSCI World Equity          24.62%      --      --       17.54%
 (Free) Index
</TABLE>     

                                                                               4
<PAGE>
 
Global Bond Fund

Objective
The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income.

Principal Strategies
    
The Fund invests primarily in a portfolio of global debt securities that may
also provide the potential for capital appreciation. The Fund is a non-
diversified portfolio.     

Normally, at least 65% of the Fund's assets are invested in debt securities with
an initial maturity of more than one year of issuers in at least three countries
(which may include the United States).

Although it may invest anywhere in the world, the Fund invests primarily in
fixed income markets listed in the Salomon Smith Barney World Government Bond
Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its portfolio.
    
Investments in fixed income securities may include:
* Debt securities of the U.S. government, its agencies and instrumentalities
* Debt securities of U.S. corporations
* Zero coupon securities
* Mortgage-backed securities
* Asset-backed securities
* When-issued securities

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Market Risk
* Credit Risk
* Interest Rate Risk
* Foreign Country and Currency Risks
* Diversification Risk

(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)

The Fund's portfolio turnover rate may exceed 100%.

Non-Diversified Portfolio
Invests in fewer securities, which may result in more potential volatility than
a diversified portfolio. Gains or losses on a single security or issuer within
the portfolio will, therefore, have a greater impact on a fund's net asset
value.

Salomon Smith Barney World Government Bond Index
A securities index that represents the broad global fixed income markets and
includes debt issues of U.S. and global (ex-U.S.) governments.     

Fund Performance
The chart and table below give an indication of the Fund's risks and
performance. The chart shows you how the Fund's performance has varied from year
to year. The table compares the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad
measure of market performance. When you consider this information, please
remember that the Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of
how it will perform in the future.
    
Year-by-Year Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31)

                            [Graph to Appear Here]
1996:      8.70%
1997:      1.17%
1998:     11.58%      

Best Quarter:                                   Q4 1998            5.86%
Worst Quarter:                                  Q1 1997           -2.93%
    
Average Annual Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31/98)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                              Performance
                                                  1       5         10         Inception
                                                 Year   Year       Year         (7/31/95)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                              <C>     <C>       <C>        <C>                     
Global Bond Fund                                11.58%    --         --           8.35%
Salomon Smith Barney                            15.29%    --         --           5.92%
 World Government
 Bond Index
</TABLE>     

5
<PAGE>
 
U.S. Balanced Fund

Objective
The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income.

Principal Strategies
    
The Fund invests primarily in a wide range of equity, fixed income and money
market securities.

All selection decisions are made relative to the U.S. Balanced Mutual Fund
Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its portfolio.     

Investments in equity securities may include:
* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Securities convertible into equity securities
* Warrants

Investments in fixed income securities may include:
* Debt securities of the U.S. government, its agencies and instrumentalities
* Debt securities of U.S. corporations
* Zero coupon securities
* Mortgage-backed securities
* Asset-backed securities
* When-issued securities

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Market Risk
* Interest Rate Risk
    
(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)

The Fund's portfolio turnover rate may exceed 100%.

U.S. Balanced Mutual Fund Index
Compiled by Brinson Partners, this index represents a fixed composite of 65%
Wilshire 5000 Equity Index and 35% Salomon Smith Barney Broad Investment Grade
(BIG) Bond Index.

From time to time, indices may change.     

Wilshire 5000 Equity Index
A broad weighted index that includes all U.S. common stocks. It is designed to
provide a representative indication of the capitalization and return for the
U.S. equity market.

Salomon Smith Barney
Broad Investment Grade (BIG) Bond Index A broad-based index that includes U.S.
bonds with over one year to maturity. 

Fund Performance
The chart and table which follow give an indication of the Fund's risks and
performance. The chart shows you how the Fund's performance has varied from year
to year. The table compares the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad
measure of market performance. When you consider this information, please
remember that the Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of
how it will perform in the future.
    
Year-by-Year Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31) 

[Graph to Appear Here]
1996:     10.86%
1997:     12.66%
1998:      9.57%     
 
Best Quarter:      Q2 1997    6.99%
Worst Quarter:     Q3 1998   -0.41%
    
Average Annual Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31/98)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

                                                               Performance
                                       1        5       10      Inception
                                      Year     Year    Year     (7/31/95)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                  <C>       <C>     <C>     <C>
U.S. Balanced Fund                    9.57%     --      --       12.22%
Wilshire 5000 Index                  23.43%     --      --       25.27%
Salomon Smith Barney                  8.72%     --      --        8.36%
 (BIG) Index
U.S. Balanced Mutual                 18.85%     --      --       19.43%
 Fund Index
</TABLE>     

                                                                               6
<PAGE>
 
U.S. Equity Fund 

Objective

The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income, while controlling risk.

Principal Strategies

Normally, the Fund invests at least 65% of its assets in equity securities of
U.S. companies.
    
All selection decisions are made relative to the Wilshire 5000 Equity Index, the
benchmark against which the Fund measures its portfolio.     

Investments in equity securities may include:

* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Securities convertible into equity securities
* Warrants

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:

* Market Risk
    
(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)     

Wilshire 5000 Equity Index

A broad weighted index that includes all U.S. common stocks. It is designed to
provide a representative indication of the capitalization and return for the
U.S. equity market.

Fund Performance

The chart and table below give an indication of the Fund's risks and
performance. The chart shows you how the Fund's performance has varied from year
to year. The table compares the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad
measure of market performance. When you consider this information, please
remember that the Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of
how it will perform in the future.
    
Year-by-Year Total Return (for the period ended 12/31)     
    
[BAR GRAPH APPEARS HERE]

1996  24.90%
1997  24.23%
1998  17.91%     

Best Quarter:   Q4 1998    16.24%
Worst Quarter:  Q3 1998   -10.49%
    
Average Annual Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31/98)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      Performance     
                               1        5      10      Inception
                             Year     Year    Year     (7/31/95)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                         <C>       <C>     <C>     <C>
U.S. Equity Fund            17.91%     --      --        23.75%
Wilshire 5000 Equity Index  23.43%     --      --        25.27%
</TABLE>     

7
<PAGE>
 
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund

Objective
The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income, while controlling risk.

Principal Strategies
Under normal circumstances, the Fund invests at least 65% of its assets in
equity securities of U.S. large capitalization companies. The Fund is a non-
diversified portfolio.

All selection decisions are undertaken relative to the Standard & Poor's 500
Stock Index (S&P 500 Index), the benchmark against which the Fund measures its
portfolio.

Investments in equity securities may include:
* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Securities convertible into equity securities
* Warrants

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Market Risk
* Diversification Risk
    
(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)     
    
Large Capitalization Companies
Those with market capitalizations in the upper 65% of the Wilshire 5000 Equity
Index. Companies whose capitalization falls below this level after purchase will
continue to be considered large capitalization companies.

Non-Diversified Portfolio
Invests in fewer securities, which may result in more potential volatility than
a diversified portfolio. Gains or losses on a single security or issuer within
the portfolio will, therefore, have a greater impact on a fund's net asset
value.     

S&P 500 Index
A broad capitalization market-weighted index that includes common stocks of the
leading companies in the top industries in the United States. It is designed to
provide a representative indication of the capitalization and return of the
large capitalization U.S. equity market.

Fund Performance
    
There is no performance data presented because the Fund has not been in
existence for a full calendar year. Inception date was 4/6/98.     

                                                                               8
<PAGE>
 
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund

Objective
The Fund seeks to provide long-term capital appreciation.

Principal Strategies
The Fund invests primarily in a portfolio of equity securities of large
capitalization growth companies. The Fund is a non-diversified portfolio.
    
All selection decisions are made relative to the S&P 500 Index, the benchmark
against which the Fund measures its portfolio.     

* Normally, at least 65% of the Fund's assets are invested in securities issued
by such companies
* Up to 20% of the Fund's assets may be invested in foreign securities

Investments in equity securities may include:
* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Securities convertible into equity securities
* Warrants
    
The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Market Risk
* Diversification Risk

(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)

Large Capitalization Growth Companies
Companies with market capitalizations in the upper 65% of the Wilshire 5000
Equity Index. Companies whose capitalization falls below this level after
purchase will continue to be considered large capitalization growth companies.

Non-Diversified Portfolio
Invests in fewer securities, which may result in more potential volatility than
a diversified portfolio. Gains or losses on a single security or issuer within
the portfolio will, therefore, have a greater impact on a fund's net asset
value.

S&P 500 Index
A broad capitalization market-weighted index that includes common stocks of the
leading companies in the top industries in the United States. It is designed to
provide a representative indication of the capitalization and return of the
large capitalization U.S. equity market.      

Fund Performance

The chart shows the Fund's performance over the past year. The table compares
the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad measure of market
performance. When you consider this information, please remember that the Fund's
past performance is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the
future.
    
Total Return (for the period ended 12/31)     
    
[Graph to Appear Here]
1998:     24.90%     
 
Best Quarter:          Q4 1998    26.41%
Worst Quarter:         Q3 1998   -12.67%
    
Average Annual Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31/98)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                  Performance
                                          1        5       10      Inception
                                         Year     Year    Year    (10/31/97)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                     <C>       <C>     <C>     <C>
U.S. Large Capitalization               24.90%     --      --       20.42%
 Growth Fund
S&P 500 Index                           28.58%     --      --       30.84%
</TABLE>

*12b-1 fees apply after December 31, 1998.     

9
<PAGE>
 
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund 

Objective
The Fund seeks to provide long-term capital appreciation.

Principal Strategies
Under normal conditions, the Fund invests at least 65% of its assets in equity
securities of U.S. small capitalization companies.
    
All selection decisions are made relative to the Russell 2000 Index, the
benchmark against which the Fund measures its portfolio.     

The Fund may also invest in securities of emerging market growth companies. The
Fund may invest up to 20% of its assets in foreign securities.
    
Investments in equity securities may include:
* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Securities convertible into equity securities
* Warrants

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Small Company Risk
* Market Risk
  (Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)
The Fund's portfolio turnover rate may exceed 100%.

Small Capitalization Companies
Companies with market capitalizations in the lower 7 1/2% of the Wilshire 5000
Equity Index.     

Emerging Market Growth Companies
Small or medium sized companies that have passed their start-up phase and are
showing positive earnings, as well as potential for achieving significant profit
in a relatively short period of time.

Russell 2000 Index
A securities index that includes primarily U.S. common stocks. It is designed to
provide a representative indication of the capitalization and return for the
small capitalization U.S. equity market.
         
Fund Performance
The chart shows the Fund's performance over the past year. The table compares
the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad measure of market
performance. When you consider this information, please remember that the Fund's
past performance is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the
future.
    
Total Return (for the period ended 12/31)     
    
                              [INSERT BAR CHART]

1998 -6.70%
    
Best Quarter:                                   Q4 1998    19.10%
Worst Quarter:                                  Q3 1998   -23.86%
   
Average Annual Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31/98)
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                              Performance
                                    1         5        10      Inception
                                   Year      Year      Year    (9/30/97)
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                <C>       <C>       <C>    <C> 
U.S. Small Capitalization         -6.70%      --        --      -9.66%
  Growth Fund
Russell 2000 Index                -2.55%      --        --      -4.67%
</TABLE> 
* 12b-1 fees apply after December 31, 1998.     

                                                                              10
<PAGE>
 
U.S. Bond Fund

Objective
The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income, while controlling risk.

Principal Strategies
The Fund invests primarily in a portfolio of investment-grade fixed income
securities that may also provide the potential for capital appreciation. As a
matter of fundamental policy, under normal circumstances, at least 65% of the
Fund's total assets are invested in U.S. debt securities with an initial
maturity of more than one year.
    
All selection decisions are made relative to the Salomon Smith Barney Broad
Investment Grade (BIG) Bond Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures
its portfolio.     

Investments in fixed income securities may include:
* Debt securities of the U.S. government, its agencies and instrumentalities
* Debt securities of U.S. corporations
* Zero coupon securities
* Mortgage-backed securities
* Asset-backed securities
* When-issued securities
    
The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Market Risk
* Interest Rate Risk
* Counterparty Risk

(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)

The Fund's portfolio turnover rate may exceed 100%. 
    

Investment-Grade
Fixed income securities possessing a minimum rating of:
* BBB by Standard & Poor's Ratings Group (S&P) or
* Baa by Moody's Investors Services, Inc. (Moody's) or,
* If unrated, are determined to be of comparable quality by the Advisor.

Salomon Smith Barney
Broad Investment Grade (BIG) Bond Index
A broad-based index that includes U.S. bonds with over one year to maturity.

Fund Performance
The chart and table below give an indication of the Fund's risks and
performance. The chart shows you how the Fund's performance has varied from year
to year. The table compares the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad
measure of market performance. When you consider this information, please
remember that the Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of
how it will perform in the future.
    
Year-by-Year Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31)     
    
                              [INSERT BAR CHART]

1996     3.15%
1997     9.05%
1998     7.80%     
Best Quarter:                    Q4 1995    4.46%
Worst Quarter:                   Q1 1996   -2.33%
    
Average Annual Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31/98)     
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                      Performance
                              1        5       10      Inception
                             Year     Year    Year     (8/31/95)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                          <C>      <C>     <C>     <C> 
U.S. Bond Fund               7.80%     --      --        7.60%
Salomon Smith Barney         8.72%     --      --        8.21%
BIG Bond Index
</TABLE> 

11
<PAGE>
 
High Yield Fund

Objectives
    
The Fund's primary objective is to provide high current income from a portfolio
of higher-yielding, lower-rated debt securities issued by domestic and foreign
companies. The Fund also seeks capital growth, when consistent with high current
income, by investing in securities, including common stocks and non-income
producing securities, which the Advisor expects will appreciate in value as a
result of declines in long-term interest rates or favorable developments
affecting the business or prospects of the issuer which may improve the issuer's
financial condition and credit rating.

Principal Strategies
The Fund invests primarily in a portfolio of U.S. higher-yielding, lower-rated
bonds:
* Under normal conditions, at least 65% of the Fund's assets are invested in
  fixed income securities that provide higher yields and are "lower-rated"
* Up to 25% of the Fund's assets may be invested in foreign securities     

All selection decisions are undertaken relative to the Merrill Lynch High Yield
Master Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its portfolio.

Investments in fixed income securities may include:
* Debt securities of U.S. corporations
* Zero coupon securities
* Mortgage-backed securities
* Asset-backed securities
* When-issued securities
* Eurodollar securities
    
The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* High Yield Risk
* Credit Risk
* Interest Rate Risk
* Market Risk
  (Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)
     
Lower-Rated Bonds
Bonds rated in the lower rating categories of Moody's and S&P, including
securities rated:
* Ba or lower by Moody's or
* BB or lower by S&P ("high yield securities").
Securities rated in these categories or lower are considered to be of poorer
quality and predominantly speculative.
    
Merrill Lynch High Yield Master Index
An index of publicly placed non-convertible, coupon-bearing U.S. domestic debt
with a term to maturity of at least one year.     

Fund Performance
The chart shows the Fund's performance over the past year. The table compares
the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad measure of market
performance. When you consider this information, please remember that the Fund's
past performance is not necessarily an indication of how it will perform in the
future.
    
Total Return (for the period ended 12/31)     
    
                              [INSERT BAR CHART]

1998:     7.75%     

Best Quarter:                   Q4 1998    4.32%
Worst Quarter:                  Q3 1998   -2.28%
    
Average Annual Total Return (for the period ended 12/31/98)     

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                            Performance
                                  1        5          10     Inception
                                 Year     Year       Year    (9/30/97)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                              <C>      <C>        <C>    <C> 
High Yield Fund                  7.75%     --         --        8.12%
Merrill Lynch High Yield         3.66%     --         --        5.04%
  Master Index
</TABLE> 
* 12b-1 fees after December 31, 1998.


                                                                              12
<PAGE>
 
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund

Objective
The Fund seeks to maximize total return, consisting of capital appreciation and
current income, by investing primarily in the equity securities of global (ex-
U.S.) issuers.

Principal Strategies
Normally, the Fund invests at least 65% of its assets in equity securities of
issuers in at least three countries other than the United States.

Although it may invest anywhere in the world, the Fund invests primarily in the
equity markets listed in the Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) World
ex USA (Free) Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its
portfolio.
    
Investments in equity securities may include:
* Common stock
* Preferred stock
* Debt securities convertible into or exchangeable for common stock
* Warrants or rights     

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* Foreign Country and Currency Risks
* Market Risk
    
  (Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)
     
MSCI World ex USA (Free) Index
An unmanaged, market driven broad based securities index which includes global
(ex-U.S.) equity markets in terms of capitalization and performance.

Fund Performance
The chart and table below give an indication of the Fund's risks and
performance. The chart shows you how the Fund's performance has varied from year
to year. The table compares the Fund's performance over time to that of a broad
measure of market performance. When you consider this information, please
remember that the Fund's past performance is not necessarily an indication of
how it will perform in the future.
    
Year-by-Year Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31)     

                              [INSERT BAR CHART]
    
1996:     11.81%
1997:      5.02%
1998:     13.44%     
 
Best Quarter:          Q4 1998     16.86%
Worst Quarter:         Q3 1998    -13.78%
    
Average Annual Total Return (for the periods ended 12/31/98)     

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
                                                          Performance
                                   1        5       10     Inception  
                                  Year     Year    Year    (7/31/95)
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                              <C>       <C>     <C>    <C> 
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity          13.44%     --      --       11.39%
  Fund
MSCI World ex USA                18.67%     --      --        8.61%
 (Free) Index
</TABLE> 


13
<PAGE>
 
Risk Considerations

All Fund investments are subject to risk and may decline in value. Each Fund's
exposure depends upon its specific investment practices. The amount and types of
risk vary depending on:

* The investment objective
* The Fund's ability to achieve its objectives
* The markets in which the Fund invests
* The investments the Fund makes in those markets
* Prevailing economic conditions over the period of an investment

Please note that there are other circumstances that could adversely affect your
investment and potentially prevent a Fund from achieving its objectives.

Counterparty Risk

The risk that when a Fund engages in repurchase, reverse repurchase, derivative,
when-issued, forward commitment, delayed settlement and securities lending
transactions with another party, it relies on the other party to consummate the
transaction and is subject to the risk of default by the other party. Failure of
the other party to complete the transaction may cause the Fund to incur a loss
or to miss an opportunity to obtain a price believed to be advantageous.

Credit Risk

The risk that the issuer of a security, or the counterparty to a contract, will
default or otherwise be unable to honor a financial obligation. Debt securities
rated below investment-grade are especially susceptible to this risk.
    
Derivative Risk     

The risk that downward price changes in a security may result in a loss greater
than a Fund's investment in the security. This risk exists through the use of
certain securities or techniques that tend to magnify changes in an index or
market.

Diversification Risk

The risk that a non-diversified Fund will be more volatile than a diversified
Fund because it invests its assets in a smaller number of issuers. The gains or
losses on a single security or issuer will, therefore, have a greater impact on
the non-diversified Fund's net asset value.

Foreign Country and Currency Risks

The risk that prices of a Fund's investments in foreign securities may go down
because of unfavorable foreign government actions, political instability or the
absence of accurate information about foreign issuers. Also, a decline in the
value of foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar will reduce the value of
securities denominated in those currencies. Foreign securities are sometimes
less liquid and harder to value than securities of U.S. issuers. These risks are
more severe for securities of issuers in emerging market countries.
    
The World Bank and other international agencies consider a country to be an
"emerging markets" country on the basis of such factors as trade initiatives,
per capita income and level of industrialization. Emerging market countries
generally include every nation in the world except the U.S., Canada, Japan,
Australia, New Zealand and most nations located in Western Europe.

On January 1, 1999, the European Monetary Union (the "EMU") introduced a new
single currency, the Euro, which will replace the national currencies of
participating member nations. If a Fund holds investments in nations with
currencies replaced by the Euro, the investment process, including trading,
foreign exchange, payments, settlements, cash accounts, custody and accounting,
will be impacted. Although it is not possible to fully predict the impact of the
Euro on a Fund, the transition and the elimination of currency risk among
nations participating in the EMU may change the economic environment and
behavior of investors, particularly in European markets.
 
Geographic Concentration Risk

The risk that if a Fund has most of its investments in a single country or
region, its portfolio will be more susceptible to factors adversely affecting
issuers located in that country or region than would a more geographically
diversified portfolio of securities .

High Yield Risk

The risk that the issuer of bonds with ratings of BB (S&P) or Ba (Moody's) or
below will default or otherwise be unable to honor a financial obligation. These
securities are considered to be of poor standing and are predominantly
speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay
principal in accordance with the terms of the obligations and involve major risk
exposure. Bonds in this category may also be called "high yield bonds" or "junk
bonds."
<PAGE>
 
Risk Considerations (cont.)

Interest Rate Risk
The risk that changing interest rates may adversely affect the value of an
investment. With fixed-rate securities, an increase in prevailing interest rates
typically causes the value of a Fund's securities to fall, while a decline in
prevailing interest rates may produce an increase in the market value of the
securities. Changes in interest rates will affect the value of longer-term fixed
income securities more than shorter-term securities and lower quality securities
more than higher quality securities.

Market Risk
The risk that the market value of a Fund's investments will fluctuate as the
stock and bond markets fluctuate. Market risk may affect a single issuer,
industry or section of the economy or it may affect the market as a whole.

Prepayment Risk
The risk that issuers will prepay fixed rate obligations when interest rates
fall, forcing the Fund to re-invest in obligations with lower interest rates
than the original obligations.

Small Company Risk
The risk that investments in smaller companies may be more volatile than
investments in larger companies, as smaller companies generally experience
higher growth and failure rates. The trading volume of smaller company
securities is normally lower than that of larger companies. Changes in the
demand for the securities of smaller companies generally has a disproportionate
effect on their market price, tending to make prices rise more in response to
buying demand and fall more in response to selling pressure.
    
The chart below illustrates both primary and secondary risks of investing in the
Funds.     
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                               Foreign
                  Counter-                        Diversifi-  Country &
                   party     Credit   Derivative    cation    Currency
<S>               <C>        <C>      <C>         <C>         <C>
Global Fund          *         *           *                     *

Global
Equity Fund          *                     *                     *

Global
Bond Fund            *         *           *           *         *

U.S.
Balanced Fund        *         *           *

U.S.
Equity Fund          *                     *

U.S. Large
Capitalization       *                     *           *
Equity Fund

U.S. Large
Capitalization       *                     *           *           *
Growth Fund

U.S. Small
Capitalization       *                     *                       *
Growth Fund

U.S.
Bond Fund            *         *           *

High
Yield Fund           *         *           *                       *

Global (ex-U.S.)
Equity Fund          *                     *                       *
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                  Geographic
                   Concen-    High   Interest           Pre-     Small
                   tration    Yield    Rate    Market  payment  Company
<S>               <C>         <C>    <C>       <C>     <C>      <C>
Global Fund          *          *       *         *        *       *

Global
Equity Fund          *                            *

Global
Bond Fund            *                  *         *        *

U.S.
Balanced Fund                           *         *        *

U.S.
Equity Fund                                       *

U.S. Large
Capitalization                                    *
Equity Fund

U.S. Large
Capitalization                                    *                
Growth Fund

U.S. Small
Capitalization       *                            *                *
Growth Fund

U.S.
Bond Fund                               *         *        *

High
Yield Fund           *          *       *         *        *

Global (ex-U.S.)
Equity Fund          *                            *
</TABLE>

15
<PAGE>
 
Fees and Expenses

The tables below describe the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and
hold shares of the Brinson UBS Investment Funds Class of shares.

Shareholder Transaction Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
 
Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases       None

Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that are deducted from Fund assets, expressed as a % 
of average net assets)

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                                                                           Amount of         Total Fund
                                                                                              Fee             Operating
                                                                                            Waiver         Expenses (after
                                                                            Gross           and/or            fee waiver
                          Management     12b-1           Other            Operating         Expense         and/or expense
6/30/98                     Fees/1/    Expenses/4/     Expenses/1/        Expenses/1/    Reimbursement/1/   reimbursement)/1/
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                       <C>          <C>             <C>                <C>            <C>                <C>
Global                       0.80%       0.65%            0.14%              1.59%             0.00%              1.59%
Global Equity                0.80%       0.76%            0.22%              1.78%             0.02%              1.76%
Global Bond                  0.75%       0.49%            0.21%              1.45%             0.06%              1.39%
U.S. Balanced                0.70%       0.50%            0.11%              1.31%             0.01%              1.30%
U.S. Equity                  0.70%       0.52%            0.10%              1.32%             0.00%              1.32%
U.S. Large Capitalization
  Equity /2/                 0.70%       0.52%            0.89%              2.11%             0.79%              1.32%
U.S. Bond                    0.50%       0.47%            0.34%              1.31%             0.24%              1.07%
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity      0.80%       0.84%            0.20%              1.84%             0.00%              1.84%
(12/31/98)
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Large Capitalization
  Growth /3/                 0.70%       0.77%            0.10%              1.57%             0.00%              1.57%
U.S. Small Capitalization
  Growth /3/                 1.00%       0.77%            0.15%              1.92%             0.00%              1.92%
High Yield /3/               0.60%       0.85%            0.10%              1.55%             0.00%              1.55%
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

(1) The Advisor has irrevocably agreed to permanently waive its fees and
reimburse certain expenses so that total operating expenses of the Funds do not
exceed the percentages noted in the chart on page 18.

(2) The fees and expenses for the U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund are
based on the period from April 6, 1998 (commencement of operations) to June 30,
1998.

(3) The fees and expenses of the U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, the U.S.
Small Capitalization Growth Fund and High Yield Fund are based on fees and
expenses incurred by three predecessor series, prior to the series'
reorganizations into the Funds (as described in the "Investment Advisor"
section), and have been recalculated and re-stated to take into account the fees
and expenses that the Funds will incur as series of the Trust.

(4) For purposes of this Table, "12b-1 Fees" are comprised of an asset-based
sales charge of up to 0.65% of average daily net assets and a service fee of
0.25% of average daily net assets for each Fund. See "Distribution Arrangements"
at page 28. Although the Distribution Plan provides that the Funds may pay fees
at these rates, the Funds and the Underwriter have agreed to limit aggregate
distribution fees on certain of the Funds so they do not exceed the percentages
noted on page 28 of this prospectus. Pursuant to rules of the National
Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. ("NASD"), the aggregate initial sales
charges, deferred sales charges and asset-based sales charges on shares of the
Funds may not exceed 6.25% of total gross sales, subject to certain exclusions.
This 6.25% limitation is imposed on the Fund rather than on a per shareholder
basis. Therefore, long-term shareholders of the Brinson Funds may pay more than
the economic equivalent of the maximum front-end sales charges permitted by
NASD. This amount also includes service fees.
                                                                              16
<PAGE>
 
Fees and Expenses (cont.)

Expense Example
This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the UBS
Investment Funds Class of shares to the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in a Fund for the time periods
indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The
example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the
Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs and the
return on your investment may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions
your costs would be:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                         1 year   3 years   5 years   10 years
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                      <C>      <C>       <C>       <C>
Global Fund                                $162      $502      $866     $1,889
Global Equity Fund                         $179      $554      $954     $2,073
Global Bond Fund                           $142      $440      $761     $1,669
U.S. Balanced Fund                         $132      $412      $713     $1,568
U.S. Equity Fund                           $134      $418      $723     $1,590
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund      $134      $418      $723     $1,590
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund      $160      $496      $855     $1,867
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund      $195      $603    $1,037     $2,243
U.S. Bond Fund                             $109      $340      $590     $1,306
High Yield Fund                            $158      $490      $845     $1,845
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund               $187      $579      $995     $2,159
</TABLE>

17
<PAGE>
 
Brinson Partners, Inc.
209 South LaSalle Street
Chicago, Ill 60604-1295



Investment Advisor

    
Brinson Partners Inc., an investment management firm primarily for institutional
accounts, is the investment advisor for the Brinson Funds, as well as for nine
other investment companies. Brinson Partners Inc. and its predecessor entities
have operated under the same investment philosophy and senior management for
over 18 years. Offices are located worldwide:

Bahrain      Geneva          New York         Sydney
Basel        Hong Kong       Paris            Tokyo 
Chicago      London          Rio de Janeiro   Zurich 
Frankfurt    Melbourne       Singapore

As of December 31, 1998, Brinson Partners Inc. had total assets under management
of approximately $297 billion. Brinson Partners is a wholly-owned subsidiary of
UBS AG (formed by the merger of Union Bank of Switzerland and Swiss Bank
Corporation).
    
Portfolio Management
Investment decisions for the Funds are made by an investment management team at
Brinson Partners. No member of the investment management team is primarily
responsible for making recommendations for portfolio purchases.

Advisory Fees
The following chart shows the investment advisory fees payable to Brinson
Partners Inc., before fee waivers, by each Fund during its last fiscal year.

Management Fees Paid
(expressed as a percentage of average net assets)
                                                  
Global Fund                                          0.80%
Global Equity Fund                                   0.80
Global Bond Fund                                     0.75
U.S. Balanced Fund                                   0.70
U.S. Equity Fund                                     0.70
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund                0.70
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund/1/             0.70
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund/1/             1.00
U.S. Bond Fund                                       0.50
High Yield Fund/1/                                   0.60
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund                         0.80

    
(1) The U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth
Fund and High Yield Fund were created as the result of a reorganization of three
corresponding funds of UBS Private Investor Funds, Inc. into these funds on
December 18, 1998. The same individuals that managed the reorganized funds are
now managing the newly created Funds.

The Advisor has irrevocably agreed to waive its fees and reimburse certain
expenses so that the total operating expenses, with the exception of 12b-1
expenses, of the UBS Investment Funds Class of shares do not exceed the
following amounts for each of the respective Funds:
    
Global Fund                               1.10%
Global Equity Fund                        1.00
Global Bond Fund                          0.90
U.S. Balanced Fund                        0.80
U.S. Equity Fund                          0.80
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund     0.80
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund/1/  0.80
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund/1/  1.15
U.S. Bond Fund                            0.60
High Yield Fund/1/                        0.70
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund              1.00     

Year 2000 Issue

Some computer systems will be unable to recognize dates after December 31, 1999.
The Funds' securities trades, pricing and accounting services and other
operations could be adversely affected by the defects in computer systems
utilized by Brinson Partners, or the custodian and transfer agent. Brinson
Partners is taking steps that it believes are reasonably designed to identify
any potential problems with the computer systems it uses. The Funds' other
service providers have told Brinson Partners that they are taking comparable
steps. Brinson Partners does not believe that the Year 2000 issue will have a
material adverse effect on its business operations or results of operations.

The cost of addressing the Year 2000 issue, if substantial, could adversely
affect companies and governments that issue securities held by one or more
Funds. This is particularly true in emerging markets, which have been reported
not to be as prepared as domestic companies and markets for Year 2000. The Year
2000 issue also could cause improperly functioning trading systems in emerging
markets which could cause settlement and liquidity problems. At this point, the
Funds cannot predict the impact on their portfolios of Year 2000 problems in
such markets.

Portfolio Turnover
    
The Funds generally intend to purchase securities for long-term investment.
Portfolio turnover rates are not a factor in making buy and sell decisions.
Increased portfolio turnover may result in higher costs for brokerage
commissions, dealer mark-ups and other transaction costs. It may also result in
taxable capital gains. Higher costs associated with increased portfolio turnover
may offset gains in the Fund's performance.
                                                                              18

<PAGE>
 
Prior Performance of Advisor
    
The following table sets forth the Advisor's composite performance data relating
to the historical performance of institutional private accounts managed by the
Advisor that have investment objectives, policies, strategies and risks
substantially similar to those of the various Funds. The data is provided to
illustrate the past performance of the Advisor in managing investment portfolios
which are substantially similar to each of the applicable Funds as measured
against specified market indices. This performance presentation includes certain
composites of Brinson Partners, Inc. and certain composites of UBS Brinson New
York (formerly UBS Asset Management New York). These two firms are now part of
one organization as a result of a business combination on June 30, 1998. The
portfolio management process and performance measurement are distinct for the
two entities through June 30, 1998. The performance data of each of the Brinson
Funds is also included in the table.

UBS Brinson (the Firm) has prepared and presented this report in compliance with
the Performance Presentation Standards of the Association for Investment
Management and Research (AIMR-PPS/TM/). AIMR has not been involved with the
preparation or review of this report. A list of all Firm composites is available
upon request. The Firm is defined as all portfolios managed and administered
from UBS Brinson's Chicago and New York offices. The effective date of Firm
compliance is January 1, 1993; certain terminated accounts are not included
prior to that date.

Composites consisting of more than one portfolio are asset weighted by 
beginning-of-period asset values. Investment results for both the Funds and the
composites are time-weighted performance calculations representing total return,
and are calculated in a manner consistent with the U.S. Securities and Exchange
Commission's ("SEC") method of calculating returns. Returns are calculated using
geometric linking of monthly returns. Composites are valued at least monthly,
taking into account cash flows. All realized and unrealized capital gains and
losses, as well as all dividends and interest from investments and cash
balances, are included. Investment transactions are accounted for on a trade
date basis with the exception of selected equity accounts. Prior to January
1996, settlement date accounting was used in these accounts, with trade date
accrual used subsequent to that date. Total returns exclude the impact of
advisor fees, custodial fees, and any other administrative expenses and the
impact of any income taxes an investor might have incurred as a result of
taxable ordinary income and capital gains realized by the account. Investment
returns will be reduced by fees and other expenses incurred. Investment advisory
fees are described in Part II of Form ADV. Upon request, we will furnish
information showing the effect an investment advisory fee would have had on
performance; due to the graduated nature of fees, as account size increases, the
annual percentage fee will decline.

Results include all actual fee-paying, discretionary client portfolios including
those clients no longer with the Firm. Portfolios are included in the composite
beginning with the first full month of performance to the present or to the
cessation of the client's relationship with the Firm. No alterations of
composites as presented here have occurred due to changes in personnel. Accounts
of all sizes are included in composite performance and no minimum account
relationship size was set for inclusion in the composites as the account size
does not impact portfolio management style. The composites are not subject to
certain expenses, investment limitations, diversification requirements and
restrictions to which the Funds are subject and which are imposed by the
Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "Act") and the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended. Had such expenses, limitations, requirements and restrictions
been applicable to the composites, the performance results would have been
adversely affected. The composites' performance presented does not represent the
historical performance of the Funds and should not be interpreted as indicative
of future performance of the Funds.     

19
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                                                      Annualized
                                                   One          Two      Three      Five       Ten
                                                   Year        Years     Years      Years     Years
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                               <C>          <C>    <C>           <C>       <C>
UBS Investment Fund - Global/1/                    7.60         8.89     10.41        N/A       N/A
Global Securities Portfolio/2/                     8.68         9.79     11.61      11.32     11.97
MSCI World Equity (Free) Index/3,4/               24.62        20.19     18.06      16.06     11.11
Salomon World Govt. Bond Index/3/                 15.29         7.50      6.20       7.85      8.97
GSMI Mutual Fund Index/3/                         16.45        15.37     14.42      13.76     12.51
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UBS Investment Fund - Global Equity/1/            13.17        11.50     13.07        N/A       N/A
Global Equity with Cash Portfolio/2/              13.79        13.32     14.64      12.84     12.11
MSCI World Equity (Free) Index/3,4/               24.62        20.19     18.06      16.06     11.11
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UBS Investment Fund - Global Bond/1/              11.58         6.25      7.05        N/A       N/A
Global Bond Portfolio/2/                          13.29         7.46      8.19       7.91      9.62
Salomon World Govt. Bond Index/3/                 15.29         7.50      6.20       7.85      8.97
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UBS Investment Fund - U.S. Balanced/1/             9.57        11.10     11.01        N/A       N/A
U.S. Balanced Portfolio/2/                         8.38        11.25     11.62      11.77     12.44
U.S. Balanced Mutual Fund Index/3/                18.85        21.15     19.03      16.75     15.01
Wilshire 5000 Index/3/                            23.43        27.30     25.24      21.78     18.11
Salomon Brothers BIG Index/3/                      8.72         9.17      7.29       7.30      9.31
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UBS Investment Fund - U.S. Equity/1/              17.91        20.90     22.28        N/A       N/A
U.S. Equity Fund/2/                               16.91        21.42     23.02      21.49     19.28
Wilshire 5000 Index/3/                            23.43        27.30     25.24      21.78     18.11
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UBS Investment Fund -
  U.S. Large Capitalization Equity/1,6/            5.63          N/A       N/A        N/A       N/A
U.S. Investment Fund -
  U.S. Large Capitalization Growth/1,6/           24.90          N/A       N/A        N/A       N/A
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Portfolio/2/     21.45        24.28     25.38      23.80     20.61
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Portfolio/2,5/   27.39        27.06     25.34      20.38     18.83
S&P 500 Index/3/                                  28.58        30.95     28.23      24.06     19.21
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Investment Fund -
  U.S. Small Capitalization Growth/1,6/           -6.70          N/A       N/A        N/A       N/A
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Portfolio/2,5/  -10.01         4.79     10.17       9.04     14.38
Russell 2000 Index/3/                             -2.55         9.20     11.58      11.87     12.92
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Investment Fund - U.S. Bond/1/                7.80         8.42      6.63        N/A       N/A
U.S. Bond Portfolio/2/                             7.45         8.61      7.06       7.14      9.33
Salomon Smith Barney BIG Index/3/                  8.72         9.17      7.29       7.30      9.31
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Investment Fund - High Yield/1,6/             7.75          N/A       N/A        N/A       N/A
High Yield Portfolio/2/                           -6.32         2.75      6.39       5.93      9.60
Merrill Lynch High Yield Master Index/3/           3.66         8.15      9.11       9.01     11.08
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UBS Investment Fund - Global
  (ex-U.S.) Equity                                13.44         9.15     10.02        N/A       N/A
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Portfolio/2/              15.61        10.95     11.75      10.77      9.83
MSCI World ex USA (Free) Index (Unhedged)/3,4/    18.67        10.06      9.06       9.27      5.71
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>      
<PAGE>
 
Prior Performance of Advisor (cont.)
    
FOOTNOTES:

(1) Total returns include reinvestment of all capital gain and income
distributions. 12b-1 fee applies after June 30, 1997. Inception dates for each
Fund are as follows: UBS Investment -Global, 8/31/92, UBS Investment - Global
Equity, 1/31/94. UBS Investment -Global Bond, 7/31/93, UBS Investment - U.S.
Balanced, 12/31/94, UBS Investment -U.S. Equity, 2/28/94, UBS Investment - U.S.
Large Capitalization Equity, 4/30/98, UBS Investment - U.S. Large Capitalization
Growth, 9/30/97, UBS Investment - U.S. Small Capitalization, 9/30/97, UBS
Investment - U.S. Bond Fund, 8/31/95, UBS Investment - High Yield, 9/30/97 and
UBS Investment -Non-U.S. Equity, 8/31/93.

(2) Performance figures for the Advisor composites are net of advisory fees and
all expenses. Advisory fees are determined by applying the highest fee schedule
to the composite as of December 31, 1998. Performance figures for the composites
gross of fees are:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                    Annualized
                                                 ------------------------------------------------------
                                                  One        Two       Three          Five       Ten
                                                  Year      Years      Years          Years      Years
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                              <C>        <C>         <C>           <C>        <C>
Global Securities Portfolio                       8.68       9.79       11.61         11.32      11.97
Global Equity with Cash Portfolio                13.79      13.32       14.64         12.84      12.11
Global Bond Portfolio                            13.29       7.46        8.19          7.91       9.62
U.S. Balanced Portfolio                           8.38      11.25       11.62         11.77      12.44
U.S. Equity Portfolio                            16.91      21.42       23.02         21.49      19.28
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Portfolio       21.45      24.28       25.38         23.80      20.61
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Portfolio       28.14      27.81       26.09         21.13      19.58
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Portfolio       -9.01       5.79       11.17         10.04      15.38
U.S. Bond Portfolio                               7.85       9.01        7.46          7.54       9.73
High Yield Portfolio                             -5.67       3.40        7.04          6.58      10.25
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Portfolio                16.46      11.80       12.60         11.62      10.68
</TABLE>

(3) GSMI Mutual Fund Index, an unmanaged index compiled by the Advisor,
currently constructed as follows: 40% Wilshire 5000 Index; 22% MSCI Non-U.S.
Equity (Free) Index; 21% Salomon BIG Bond Index; 9% Salomon Non-U.S. Government
Bond Index (unhedged); 2% JP Morgan EMBI+; 3% IFC Investable Index; and 3% High
Yield Bond Index. The composition of the Index has evolved over time and may
change in the future. MSCI World Equity (Free) Index is an unmanaged market
driven broad based index which includes U.S. and non-U.S. equity markets in
terms of capitalization and performance. Salomon World Government Bond Index is
an unmanaged market driven index which measures the broad global fixed income
markets invested in debt issues of U.S. and non-U.S. governments, governmental
entities and supranationals. U.S. Balanced Mutual Fund Index, an unmanaged index
compiled by the Advisor, constructed as follows: 65% Wilshire 5000 Index and 35%
Salomon Brothers Broad Investment Grade (BIG) Bond Index. Wilshire 5000 Index is
an unmanaged broad weighted index which includes all U.S. common stocks. S&P 500
Index is an unmanaged index containing common stocks of 500 industrial,
transportation, utility and financial companies, regarded as generally
representative of the U.S. stock market. Russell 2000 Index is an unmanaged
index that includes 2,000 U.S. small capitalization stocks and is a common
measure of the performance of the small capitalization segment of the U.S. stock
market. Merrill Lynch High Yield Master Index consists of issues which must be
in the form of publicly placed nonconvertible, coupon-bearing U.S. domestic debt
and must carry a term to maturity of at least one year. Issues must be less than
investment grade but not in default, and the index excludes floating rate debt,
equipment trust certificates, and Title 11 securities. Salomon Smith Barney
Broad Investment Grade (BIG) Bond Index is an unmanaged market driven broad
based index which includes U.S bonds with over one year to maturity. MSCI World
ex-U.S. (Free) Index is an unmanaged market driven broad based index which
includes global non-U.S. equity markets in terms of capitalization and
performance.

(4)  Beginning 1/31/88 these indices represent securities which are freely
traded on equity markets.

(5)  Prior to January 1996, settlement date accounting was used in equity
accounts, with trade date accrual used subsequent to that date.

(6)  Non-annualized return since performance inception date for the following
Funds: UBS U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund: 4/30/98, UBS Large Cap Growth
Fund: 10/14/97, UBS Small Cap Fund: 9/30/97 and UBS High Yield Bond Fund:
9/30/97.

(7)  For additional disclosure, see Appendix A on page 35 of this prospectus.
     
21
<PAGE>
 
Pricing of Fund Shares

The UBS Investment Funds Class of shares are bought and sold at net asset value
(NAV), which is calculated as of the close of business on each day that the New
York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is open (currently 4:00 p.m. Eastern time). A Fund's
securities are valued based on the last sale price or, where market quotations
are not readily available, are based on fair value as determined in good faith
by the Trust's board of trustees.

Foreign securities are valued at their closing prices on the exchange on which
they are traded. The resulting values are converted from the local currency into
U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. Foreign securities may trade in their
local markets on weekends or other days when a Fund does not price its shares.
Therefore, the NAV of Funds holding foreign securities may change on days when
shareholders will not be able to buy or sell their Fund shares.

How the Funds Calculate NAV

The NAV of a class of shares of a Fund is determined by dividing the value of
the securities and other assets, less liabilities, allocated to the class by the
number of outstanding shares of the class.

Purchase and redemption orders for shares received by the close of regular
trading (currently 4:00 p.m., Eastern time) are priced according to the NAV
determined on that day. Purchase and redemption orders received after the close
of trading are priced according to the next determined price per share. The
Funds reserve the right to change the time at which purchases and redemptions
are priced if the NYSE closes at a time other than 4:00 p.m. Eastern time or if
an emergency exists.

                                                                              22
<PAGE>
 
Purchasing Shares

The minimum initial investment for Fund shares is $25,000 (including IRAs).
Subsequent investments for the Fund shares will be accepted in minimum amounts
of $5,000 (including IRAs). The Funds reserve the right to vary the investment
minimums and impose minimums for additional investments at any time. In
addition, UBS Investment Funds may waive the minimum initial investment
requirement for any investor at its discretion. Purchases may be made in one of
the following ways:

If you have any questions or need further information, call 1-800-794-7753. 


By Telephone      

Call 1-800-794-7753 to arrange for a telephone transaction.

If you want to make future transactions (e.g., purchase additional shares,
redeem or exchange shares) by telephone, you will need to elect this option
either on the initial application or subsequently in writing.

Complete and sign an application for the UBS Investment Funds Class of shares.

By Mail 

Make your check payable to "UBS Investment Fund -- __________________."

If you are adding to your existing account, enclose the remittance portion of
your account statement and include the amount of investment, account name and
number.
    
Mail your application and/or check to:
UBS Investment Funds
c/o Transfer Agent
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798     

By Wire

If you are opening a new account, call the Funds at 1-800-794-7753 to arrange
for a wire transaction.

Then wire federal funds to:

The Chase Manhattan
 Bank
ABA#021000021
DDA#9102-783504
FBO: "UBS Investment Fund-- ________" and include your name and new account
number.

Complete and sign an application for UBS Investment Funds Class of shares and
mail immediately following the initial wire transaction to:
    
UBS Investment Funds 
c/o Transfer Agent
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798     

If you are adding to your existing account, you do not need to call the Funds to
arrange for a wire transaction, but be sure to include your name and account
number.

Through Financial
Institutions/
Professionals
    
In some cases, the Funds have entered into one or more Sales Agreements with
brokers, dealers or financial institutions (banks and bank trust departments)
(each an "Authorized Dealer"). The Authorized Dealer, or intermediaries
designated by the Authorized Dealer (a "Sub-designee"), may accept purchase and
redemption orders that are in "good form" on behalf of the Funds. A Fund will be
deemed to have received a purchase or redemption order when the Authorized
Dealer or Sub-designee accepts the order. Such orders will be priced at the
Fund's net asset value next computed after such order is accepted. These
Authorized Dealers may charge the investor a transaction fee or other fee for
their services at the time of purchase. These fees would not be otherwise
charged if you purchase shares directly from the Funds. It is the responsibility
of such broker-dealers or service organizations to promptly forward purchase
orders with payments to the Funds.     

Telephone orders are accepted from broker-dealers or service organizations if
they have been previously approved by the Funds. 

Brinson Partners, or its affiliates, may, from its own resources, compensate
broker-dealers or other financial intermediaries ("Service Providers") for
services performed with respect to UBS Investment Funds class of shares. These
services may include marketing, shareholder servicing, recordkeeping and/or
other services. Payments made for any of these purposes may be made from Brinson
Partners' revenues, its profits or any other sources available. When these
service arrangements are in effect, they are generally made available to all
qualified Service Providers.

23
<PAGE>
 
The Funds will not accept a check endorsed over by a third party. The Funds
reserve the right to reject any purchase order and to suspend the offering of
shares of the Brinson Funds. This includes purchase orders that in the
reasonable belief of the Funds, have been made by market timers or short-term
traders.

Exchanging Shares

You can exchange your UBS Investment Funds Class of shares for UBS Investment
Funds Class of shares of other Funds. Exchanges will not be permitted between
the UBS Investment Funds Class of shares and either the Brinson Fund--Class N
shares or the Brinson Fund--Class I shares.

Under certain circumstances, the Funds may:
* Limit the number of exchanges between Funds
* Reject a telephone exchange order
* Modify or discontinue the exchange privilege upon
  60 days' written notice

Exchanged Funds are subject to the minimum initial investment requirement. The
procedures that apply to redeeming shares also apply to exchanging shares.

An exchange is the sale of shares of one Fund and purchase of shares of another
and could result in taxable gain or loss in a non-tax sheltered account.

Account Options

The following account options are available. There are no charges for the
programs noted below and you may change or terminate these plans at any time by
written notice to the Funds. For information about participating in these
account options, call the transfer agent at 1-800-448-2430.

Automatic Investment Plan         

Through this option, money can be electronically deducted from your checking,
savings or bank money market accounts and invested in the Funds each month or
quarter.

Complete the Automatic Investment Plan Application, which is available upon
request by calling 1-800-794-7753, and mail it to the address indicated.

The initial $25,000 minimum investment still applies, however, subsequent
investments can be as little as $5,000.

The Funds may alter or terminate the Automatic Investment Plan at any time.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan 

If you have a minimum of $25,000 in your account, you may direct the transfer
agent to make payments to you (or anyone you designate) monthly, quarterly or
semi-annually.

Withdrawals are drawn from share redemptions and must be a minimum of $1,000 per
payment. Under the Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP), you must elect to have
dividends and distributions automatically reinvested in additional Fund shares.

The Funds may terminate any SWP if the value of the account falls below $1,000
due to share redemptions or an exchange of shares for shares of another UBS
Investment Fund.

Individual Retirement Account

You may open an IRA, a tax-deferred retirement account, with the Funds if you
are under age 70 1/2. The minimum purchase requirement for an IRA is $25,000.
<PAGE>
 
Redeeming Shares

Your shares will be redeemed at the NAV next calculated after your order is
received by the Funds' transfer agent in good order. Your order will be
processed promptly and you will generally receive the proceeds within five
business days.

Please note that proceeds for redemption requests made shortly after a recent
purchase by check will be distributed once the check clears, which may take up
to 15 days.

The Funds reserve the right to pay redemptions "in kind" (i.e., payment in
securities rather than in cash) if the amount you are redeeming is large enough
to affect a Fund's operations (for example, if it represents more than $250,000
or 1% of the Fund's assets). In these cases, you might incur brokerage costs
converting the securities to cash.

Minimum Balances 

Due to the relatively high cost of maintaining smaller accounts, the Funds,
reserve the right to involuntarily redeem shares in any Fund account for their
then current net asset value if any time your total investment does not have a
value of at least $1,000 as a result of redemptions and not due to changes in
the asset value of the Fund.

You will be notified if your account drops below the required minimum and will 
be allowed at least 60 days to bring the value of the account up to the minimum 
before the redemption is processed. The Fund will promptly pay you the NAV for 
such a redemption.

You may redeem some or all of your shares any day the NYSE is open for business
by doing one of the following (if you have any questions, call the transfer
agent at 1-800-448-2430).


                                                  
                                                  
By Telephone             

If you have chosen the telephone redemption privilege on the initial application
or subsequently arranged in writing, you may call 1-800-448-2430 to redeem
shares.

By Mail   
    
Shareholders may sell shares by making a written request to the Funds at:
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798     


Include signatures of all persons required to sign for transactions, exactly as
their name appears on the account application.

To protect your account from fraud, the Funds may require a signature guarantee
for certain redemptions (see "Signature Guarantees" below).

By Bank Wire

If you have chosen the wire redemption privilege on the initial application or
subsequently arranged in writing, you may request the Funds to wire your
proceeds to a predesignated bank account.

Call 1-800-448-2430.

Wire redemption requests must be received by the transfer agent by 4:00 p.m.
Eastern time for money to be wired the next business day.

Through Financial    
Institutionals/       
Professionals 

Contact your financial institution or professional for more information.
Important note: Each institution or professional may have its own procedures and
requirements for selling shares and may charge fees.

<PAGE>
 
Redemption requests should be accompanied by the Fund's name, your Fund account
number and the dollar amount or number of shares to be redeemed. The Fund will
mail a check to your account address or, if you have elected the wire redemption
privilege, the Fund will wire the proceeds to your bank.

Signature Guarantees 

To protect your account from fraud, the Fund and its agent may require a
signature guarantee for certain redemptions to verify the identity of the person
who has authorized a redemption from your account. Please contact the Fund for
further information.

Telephone Transactions
You may give up some level of security by choosing to buy or sell shares by
telephone, rather than by mail. The Funds will employ reasonable procedures to
confirm that telephone instructions are genuine. If they do not employ these
procedures, the Funds or the transfer agent may be liable for any losses due to
unauthorized or fraudulent transactions. A written confirmation will be provided
for all purchase, exchange and redemption transactions initiated by telephone.

Transfer of Securities

Under certain circumstances, investors may be permitted to purchase Fund shares
by transferring securities to a separate Fund that meets the original Fund's
investment objective and policies. (Please see the Statement of Additional
Information for more information.)

Dividends and Distributions

Each Fund passes most of its net investment income along to investors in the
form of distributions. All shareholders of a Fund are entitled to a
proportionate share of the Fund's net income and realized capital gains on its
investments. 

Net investment income for all of the Funds consists of all dividends and
interest received, less expenses (including fees payable to the Advisor and its
affiliates).

Dividends from net investment income are declared, and paid, by each Fund semi-
annually--in June and December. In December, the Funds will distribute
substantially all of their net long-term capital gains and any undistributed net
short-term capital gains realized during the one year period commencing November
1 (or date of the creation of the Fund, if later) and ending October 31. At the
same time, the Funds will distribute all of their net investment income earned
through the end of December and not previously distributed as ordinary (not
capital) income.

Dividends and other distributions paid on each class of shares of a Fund are
calculated at the same time and in the same manner. Dividends on each class
might be affected differently by the allocation of other class-specific
expenses.
    
Unless you notify the transfer agent in writing that you elect to receive your
income dividends and capital gain distributions in cash, all will be reinvested
automatically in additional Fund shares of the same class of a Fund.
Distribution options may be changed at any time by requesting a change in
writing. Dividends are reinvested on the reinvestment date at the net asset
value determined at the close of business on that date. Please note that shares
purchased shortly before the record date for a dividend or distribution may have
the effect of returning capital, although such dividends and distributions are
subject to taxes.     

                                                                              26
<PAGE>
 
Tax Considerations

Following is a brief discussion of the general tax treatment of various
distributions from the Funds. It is not an exhaustive discussion, and your
particular tax status may be different. We encourage you to consult with your
own tax advisor about federal, state and local tax considerations.
    
In general, distributions from a Fund are taxable to you as either ordinary
income or capital gains. This is true whether you invest your distributions in
additional shares of a Fund or receive them in cash. Any capital gains
distributed by a Fund are taxable to you as long-term capital gains no matter
how long you have owned your shares. The rate of tax will generally depend on
how long the Fund held the securities on which it realized the gains.     

When you sell or exchange your shares of a Fund, you may have a capital gain or
loss. The tax rate on any gain from the sale or exchange of your shares depends
on how long you have held your shares.
    
Fund distributions and gains from the sale or exchange of your shares will
generally be subject to state and local income tax. Foreign investors may be
subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax.

If any of the following situations apply to you, the Funds will be required by
the IRS to withhold 31% of your taxable distributions:
* you do not provide your correct taxpayer identification number, or
* you do not certify that such number is correct, or
* if the IRS instructs the Fund to do so

Buying a Dividend

If you buy shares in a Stock Fund just before the Fund makes any distribution,
or if you buy shares in any Bond Fund just prior to a capital gain distribution,
you will receive some of the purchase price back in the form of a taxable
distribution.

Shareholders will be advised annually of the source and the tax status of all
Fund distributions for federal income tax purposes. 

27
<PAGE>
 
Distribution Arrangements

Distribution Arrangements

The Funds have adopted a distribution plan under rule 12b-1 of the investment 
Company Act of 1940 to compensate Brinson Partners, Funds Distributor Inc. (FDI)
and others for distributing and promoting sales of the UBS Investment Funds 
Class of shares. Annual fees paid under the plan may not exceed 0.90% of the
average daily net assets (0.25% of which are service fees to be paid by the
Funds to FDI, dealers and others, for providing personal service and/or
maintaining shareholder accounts) of each UBS Investment Fund's Class of shares.
The plan provides, however, that the aggregate distribution fees for each
respective Fund shall not exceed the following maximum amounts for the 1999
fiscal year.

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
<S>                                      <C> 
Global Fund                              0.65%
Global Equity Fund                       0.76
Global Bond Fund                         0.49
U.S. Balanced Fund                       0.50
U.S. Equity Fund                         0.52
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund    0.52
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund    0.77
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund    0.77
U.S. Bond Fund                           0.47
High Yield Fund                          0.85
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund             0.84
</TABLE> 

Because these distribution and service fees are paid out of the assets of each 
share class' 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.

Multiple Classes

The Funds are a series of The Brinson Funds, a Delaware business trust, and
currently offer three classes of shares: the Brinson Funds-Class I, Brinson
Funds-Class N and UBS Investment Funds Class of shares.
<PAGE>
 
Financial Highlights
    
The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand a Fund's
financial performance for the past five years (or, if shorter, the period of the
Fund's operations). Certain information reflects financial results for a single
Fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate that an investor
would have earned (or lost) on an investment in each Fund (assuming reinvestment
of all dividends and distributions).

Global Fund, Global Equity Fund, Global Bond Fund, U.S. Balanced Fund, U.S.
Equity Fund, U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund, U.S. Bond Fund and Global
(ex-U.S.) Equity Fund

The selected financial information in the following table has been audited by
the Funds' independent auditors, whose unqualified reports thereon (the
"Reports") appear in the Funds' Annual Report to Shareholders dated June 30,
1998 (the "Annual Report"). In addition, the table includes unaudited financial
information for the period ended December 31, 1998, which is included in the
Funds' Semi-Annual Report to Shareholders ( the "Semi-Annual Report") dated
December 31, 1998. Additional performance and financial data and related notes
are contained in the Annual Report and the Semi-Annual Report, which are
available without charge upon request. The Funds' Financial Statements for the
fiscal year ended June 30, 1998 and the Reports, as well as the Semi-Annual
Report, are incorporated by reference into the Statement of Additional
Information.

U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund and
High Yield Fund

The U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, the U.S. Small Capitalization Growth
Fund and the High Yield Fund (collectively, the "New Funds") are successors to
the UBS Large Cap Growth Fund, the UBS Small Cap Fund and the UBS High Yield
Bond Fund, respectively (collectively, the "Predecessor Funds"). Each
Predecessor Fund, prior to its merger into a New Fund, operated as a separate
portfolio of UBS Private Investor Funds, Inc., another investment company that
was advised by another entity. The Predecessor Funds had fiscal years ending on
December 31. On December 18, 1998, following the approval of the shareholders of
each Predecessor Fund of an agreement and plan of reorganization, the UBS Large
Cap Growth Fund, the UBS Small Cap Fund and the UBS High Yield Bond Fund were
reorganized and merged into the U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, the U.S.
Small Capitalization Growth Fund and the High Yield Fund, respectively. (These
transactions are collectively referred to as the "Reorganizations.") The New
Funds had no operations prior to the Reorganizations.
                        
The selected financial information in the following table, for the year ended
December 31, 1998, has been audited by the Funds' independent auditors, whose
unqualified reports on the financial statements containing such information (the
"New Funds' Reports") appear in the New Funds' Annual Report to Shareholders
dated December 31, 1998 (the "New Funds' Annual Report"). The selected financial
information in the following table for the year ended December 31, 1997 has been
audited by the Predecessor Funds' independent auditors, whose unqualified
reports on the financial statements containing such information (the
"Predecessor Funds' Reports") appear in the Predecessor Funds' Annual Report to
Shareholders dated December 31, 1997 (the "Predecessor Funds' Annual Report").
Additional performance and financial data and related notes are contained in the
New Funds' Annual Report and the Predecessor Funds' Annual Reports
(collectively, the "New Funds' and Predecessor Funds' Reports"), which are
available without charge upon request. The New Funds' financial statements for
the fiscal year ended December 31, 1998 and the Predecessor Funds' financial
statements for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1997, and the New Funds' and
Predecessor Funds' Reports, are incorporated by reference into the Statement of
Additional Information.     

29
<PAGE>
 


                      this page intentionally left blank



                                                                             30

<PAGE>
 
Financial Highlights (cont.)
    
Financial Highlights--Fiscal Years Ended June 30 and December 31

The following table presents financial data relating to a share of beneficial
interest outstanding throughout the periods presented. This information has been
derived from the Funds' and the Predecessor Funds' financial statements.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                      Income (Loss) from Investment
                                                                                Operations                    Less Distributions
                                                                      -----------------------------      ---------------------------
                                                                                                         Distributions Distributions
                                                                                                   Total      from and   from and
                                                               Net asset    Net        Net        income     in excess  in excess
                                                                 value-   Invest-  realized and  (loss) from   of net     of net
                                                               beginning    ment    unrealized   investment  investment  realized
                                                               of period   income   gain (loss)  operations    income      gain
<S>                                                            <C>        <C>      <C>           <C>      <C>          <C>
UBS INVESTMENT FUND-GLOBAL (Commencement of Operations July 31, 1995/3/
1996                                                            $11.60       0.39       1.10        1.49       (0.59)      (0.32)
1997                                                            $12.18       0.34       1.75        2.09       (0.57)      (0.65)
1998                                                            $13.05       0.30       0.61        0.91       (0.55)      (0.70)
1998 (December 31, 1998 unaudited)                              $12.71       0.13       0.05        0.18       (0.31)      (0.83)

UBS INVESTMENT FUND-GLOBAL EQUITY (Commencement of Operations July 31, 1995)/3/
1996                                                            $10.35      (0.01)      1.93        1.92       (0.01)      (0.69)
1997                                                            $11.57       0.08       2.13        2.21       (0.06)      (0.99)
1998                                                            $12.73       0.07       0.83        0.90       (0.07)      (1.05)
1998 (December 31, 1998 unaudited)                              $12.51       0.00       0.29        0.29       (0.05)      (0.18)

UBS INVESTMENT FUND-GLOBAL BOND (Commencement of Operations July 31, 1995)/3/
1996                                                            $10.56       0.78       0.15        0.93       (1.37)      (0.10)
1997                                                            $10.02       0.62       0.10        0.72       (0.94)      (0.19)
1998                                                            $ 9.61       0.38/2/   (0.18)       0.20       (0.25)      (0.17)
1998 (December 31, 1998 unaudited)                              $ 9.39       0.18/2/    0.75        0.93       (0.35)      (0.08)

UBS INVESTMENT FUND-U.S. BALANCED (Commencement of Operations July 31, 1995)/3/
1996                                                            $11.38       0.42       0.86        1.28       (0.42)      (0.57)
1997                                                            $11.67       0.38       1.31        1.69       (0.36)      (0.54)
1998                                                            $12.46       0.42/2/    0.95        1.37       (0.70)      (0.94)
1998 (December 31, 1998 unaudited)                              $12.19       0.16/2/    0.23        0.39       (0.59)      (2.65)

UBS INVESTMENT FUND-U.S. EQUITY (Commencement of Operations July 31, 1995)/3/
1996                                                            $11.94       0.10       2.92        3.02       (0.13)      (0.25)
1997                                                            $14.58       0.11       4.22        4.33       (0.09)      (1.23)
1998                                                            $17.59       0.09       3.38        3.47       (0.10)      (1.13)
1998 (December 31, 1998 unaudited)                              $19.83       0.04/2/    0.71        0.75       (0.05)      (1.07)

UBS INVESTMENT FUND-U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION EQUITY (Commencement of Operations April 6, 1998)/3/
1998                                                            $10.00       0.02      (0.22)      (0.20)      (0.01)         --
1998 (December 31, 1998 unaudited)                              $ 9.79       0.02       0.53        0.55       (0.06)         --

UBS INVESTMENT FUND-U.S. BOND (Commencement of Operations August 31, 1995)/3/
1996                                                            $10.00       0.46      (0.13)       0.33       (0.38)      (0.03)
1997                                                            $ 9.92       0.46/2/    0.32        0.78       (0.48)         --
1998                                                            $10.22       0.50       0.49        0.99       (0.53)      (0.14)
1998 (December 31, 1998 unaudited)                              $10.54       0.26/2/    0.18        0.44       (0.25)      (0.15)
</TABLE>

(1) Annualized.
(2) The net investment income per share data was determined by using average
shares outstanding throughout the period.
(3) Formerly known as the SwissKey class of shares, redesigned as the UBS
Investment Funds class of shares on September 15, 1998.
(4) The Brinson Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund changed its name from the Brinson
Non-U.S. Equity Fund on December 10, 1998.
During the fiscal year ended June 30, 1998, the Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund
had total borrowings of     

31
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION> 
                                                                            RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
                                                             -------------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                 Ratio of Net
                                                                 Ratio of Expenses            Investment income
                                                                  to Average Net                to Average Net
                                                                      Assets                        Assets
- ------------                                                 -------------------------    --------------------------

                       Net                        Net
                      asset        Total        assets,       Before         After         Before          After
            Total     value-       Return        end of       expense        expense       expense         expense        Portfolio
          Distribu-   end of        (non-        period      reimburse-     reimburse-    reimburse-      reimburse-      turnover
            tions     period     annualized)    (in 000s)       ment           ment          ment            ment           rate
          <S>        <C>         <C>            <C>          <C>            <C>           <C>             <C>             <C>
           (0.91)      $12.18      13.24 %       $14,030      1.69%/1/         N/A         3.04 %/1/          N/A           142%
           (1.22)      $13.05      18.13 %       $26,303      1.64%            N/A         2.38 %             N/A           150%
           (1.25)      $12.71       7.60 %       $30,436      1.59%            N/A         2.05 %             N/A            88%
           (1.14)      $11.75       1.59 %       $27,244      1.60%/1/         N/A         1.55 %/1/          N/A            41%

           (0.70)      $11.57      19.25 %       $33,012      2.53%/1/        1.76%/1/    (0.19)%/1/         0.58%/1/        74%
           (1.05)      $12.73      20.34 %       $61,680      2.00%           1.75%        0.60 %            0.85 %          32%
           (1.12)      $12.51       8.15 %       $59,147      1.78%           1.76%        0.53 %            0.55 %          46%
           (0.23)      $12.57       2.43 %       $49,050      1.81%/1/        1.76%/1/    (0.10)%/1/        (0.05)%/1/       49%

           (1.47)      $10.02       9.17 %       $ 3,653      2.14%/1/        1.39%/1/     4.49 %            5.24 %         184%
           (1.13)      $ 9.61       7.20 %       $ 4,110      1.81%           1.39%        4.41 %            4.83 %         235%
           (0.42)      $ 9.39       2.28 %       $ 4,377      1.45%           1.39%        3.98 %            4.04 %         151%
           (0.43)      $ 9.89       9.91 %       $ 4,357      1.39%/1/         N/A         3.74%/1/           N/A            49%

           (0.99)      $11.67      11.54 %       $   779      1.51%/1/        1.30%/1/     3.26%/1/          3.47%/1/       240%
           (0.90)      $12.46      14.99 %       $ 1,649      1.38%           1.30%        3.28 %            3.36 %         329%
           (1.64)      $12.19      11.79 %       $ 1,880      1.31%           1.30%        3.38 %            3.39 %         194%
           (3.24)      $ 9.34       3.46 %       $ 2,144      1.44%/1/        1.30%/1/     2.58%/1/          2.72%/1/        65%

           (0.38)      $14.58      25.70 %       $ 5,387      1.66%/1/        1.32%/1/     0.61%/1/          0.95%/1/        36%
           (1.32)      $17.59      31.28 %       $35,039      1.41%           1.32%        0.54 %            0.63%           43%
           (1.23)      $19.83      20.80 %       $55,063      1.32%            N/A         0.60 %             N/A            42%
           (1.12)      $19.46       4.04 %       $70,093      1.32%/1/         N/A         0.34 %/1/          N/A            17%


           (0.01)      $ 9.79      (2.06)%       $     1      2.11%/1/        1.32%/1/     0.00%/1/          0.79 %/1/       12%
           (0.06)      $10.28       5.63 %       $     1      1.92%/1/        1.32%/1/    (0.02)%/1/         0.58 %/1/       19%

           (0.41)      $ 9.92       3.24 %       $   636      4.10%/1/        1.07%/1/     2.53%/1/          5.56 %/1/      363%
           (0.48)      $10.22       7.91 %       $ 1,399      2.12%           1.07%        4.67 %            5.72 %         410%
           (0.67)      $10.54       9.97 %       $ 2,444      1.31%           1.07%        5.14 %            5.38 %         198%
           (0.40)      $10.58       4.21 %       $ 5,072      1.11%/1/        1.07%/1/     4.83%/1/          4.87 %/1/      140%
</TABLE>

$32,600,000 outstanding for 1 day (June 29, 1998) under the Trust's agreement
with The Chase Manhattan Bank to provide a 364-day $100 million committed line
of credit. The Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund had 36,449,018.679 shares
outstanding on June 29, 1998, and the amount of debt per share was $12.05. At
June 30, 1998, the Fund had no debt outstanding. N/A = Not Applicable
                                                                              32
<PAGE>
 
Financial Highlights (cont.)



<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                                                   Income (Loss) from Investment
                                                                            Operations                        Less Distributions
                                                                 ---------------------------------       ---------------------------
                                                                                                         Distributions Distributions
                                                                                                Total       from and     from and
                                                         Net asset      Net         Net         income      in excess    in excess
                                                           value-     Invest-   realized and  (loss) from     of net      of net
                                                         beginning      ment     unrealized    investment   investment    realized
Year                                                     of period     income    gain (loss)   operations     income       gain
<S>                                                      <C>          <C>       <C>           <C>        <C>           <C>
UBS INVESTMENT FUND-GLOBAL (ex-U.S.) EQUITY (Commencement of Operations
July 31, 1995)/3,4/
1996                                                       $10.26       0.12          1.45        1.57        (0.15)      (0.56)
1997                                                       $11.12       0.11          1.93        2.04        (0.11)      (0.56)
1998                                                       $12.49       0.08          0.30        0.38        (0.08)      (0.74)
1998 (December 31, 1998 unaudited)                         $12.05      (0.01)         0.09        0.08        (0.01)      (0.12)

UBS INVESTMENT FUND - U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION GROWTH/5//7/ (Commencement of
Operations October 14, 1997)/8/
1997/6/                                                    $10.00       0.02         (0.08)      (0.06)       (0.02)          -
1998                                                       $ 9.92       0.06          2.38        2.44        (0.06)      (0.46)

UBS INVESTMENT FUND - U.S. SMALL CAPITALIZATION GROWTH/5//7/ (Commencement of
Operations September 30,1997)/1/
1997/6/                                                    $10.00         --         (0.56)      (0.56)          --          --
1998                                                       $ 9.44      (0.02)        (0.57)      (0.59)          --       (0.05)

UBS INVESTMENT FUND - HIGH YIELD/5//7/(Commencement of Operations September 30,
1997)/8/
1997/6/                                                    $10.00       0.18          0.05        0.23        (0.18)         --
1998                                                       $10.05       7.30          0.02        7.32        (7.33)      (0.06)
</TABLE>

(1) Annualized.

(2) The net investment income per share data was determined by using average
shares outstanding throughout the period.

(3) Formerly known as the SwissKey class of shares, redesigned as the UBS
Investment Funds class of shares on September 15, 1998.

(4) The Brinson Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund changed its name from the Brinson
Non-U.S. Equity Fund on December 10, 1998. During the fiscal year ended June 30,
1998, the Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund had total borrowings of $32,600,000
outstanding for 1 day (June 29, 1998) under the Trust's agreement with The Chase
Manhattan Bank to provide a 364-day $100 million committed line of credit. The
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund had 36,449,018.679 shares outstanding on June 29,
1998, and the amount of debt per share was $12.05. At June 30, 1998, the Fund
had no debt outstanding.

(5) The information provided in this table does not reflect Rule 12b-1 plan
expenses, as the Predecessor Funds were not subject to such expenses.

(6) For the period from commencement of operations to December 31, 1997.

(7) Prior to the Reorganizations, each of these Series operated as a separate
portfolio of UBS Private Investor Funds, Inc. and invested all of their
respective investable assets in an affiliated fund with an identical investment
objective. The U.S. Large     

33
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>

                                                                              RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
                                                                  --------------------------------------------------
                                                                                                  Ratio of Net
                                                                   Ratio of Expenses            Investment Income
                                                                     to Average Net               to Average Net
                                                                         Assets                       Assets
- -----------------                                                 ---------------------      -----------------------
                           Net                       Net
                          asset       Total         assets,      Before         After          Before        After
            Total         value-      Return        end of       expense       expense        expense       expense       Portfolio
          Distribu-      end of        (non-        period      reimburse-    reimburse-     reimburse-    reimburse-      turnover
            tions         period    annualized)    (in 000s)       ment         ment            ment          ment           rate
          <S>            <C>        <C>            <C>         <C>           <C>            <C>           <C>             <C>
           (0.71)         $ 11.12     15.78 %       $ 1,262       2.04%/1/      1.84%/1/       0.83 %/1/     1.03 %/1/       20%
           (0.67)         $ 12.49     19.32 %       $ 7,797       1.81%          N/A           1.02 %         N/A            25%
           (0.82)         $ 12.05      3.90 %       $ 5,310       1.84%          N/A           0.68 %         N/A            49%
           (0.13)         $ 12.00      0.76 %       $ 4,975       1.83%/1/       N/A          (0.21)%/1/      N/A            37%

           (0.02)         $  9.92     (0.55)%       $ 4,137       8.54%/1,7/    1.00%/1,7/    (6.19)%/1,7/   1.35 %/1,7/     N/A
           (0.52)         $ 11.84     24.90 %       $ 4,147       2.76%         0.99%         (1.40)%        0.37 %          N/A

              --          $  9.44     (5.62)%       $11,954       3.63%/1,7/    1.20%/1,7/    (2.53)%/1,7/  (0.10)%/1,7/     N/A
           (0.05)         $  8.80     (6.70)%       $22,607       1.69%         1.20%         (0.76)%       (0.27)%          N/A

           (0.18)         $ 10.05      2.34 %       $ 7,861       4.98%/1,7/    0.90%/1,7/     3.15 %/1,7/   7.23 %/1,7/     N/A
           (7.39)         $  9.98      7.75 %       $34,900       1.59%         0.89%          7.38 %        8.08 %          N/A
</TABLE>

Capitalization Growth Fund invested solely in the UBS Investor Portfolios 
Trust--UBS Large Cap Growth Portfolio; the U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund
invested solely in the UBS Investor Portfolios Trust--UBS Small Cap Portfolio; 
and the High Yield Fund invested solely in the UBS Investor Portfolios 
Trust--UBS High Yield Bond Portfolio. The funds in which each of these Series 
invested are referred to herein as the "Master Funds." The ratios set forth in 
this Financial Highlights table for each of these Series include the Series' 
share of its respective Master Fund's expenses. The annualization of these 
ratios is affected by the fact that the Investment Advisory Agreement and 
Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement to which these Series were subject prior to 
the Reorganizations were not ratified until December 29, 1997. Prior to that 
date, investment advisory services were being provided without compensation.

(8) Reflects 10 for 1 share split effective December 9, 1998.

N/A=Not Applicable     
<PAGE>
 
Appendix A

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>

                                                                                 As of December 31, 1998
Brinson Partners, Inc.                           Number of Accounts         Assets         Percentage of     Highest Annual
Composite Name                                     per Composite          ($ million)      Firm Assets        Fee on Assets
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                              <C>                      <C>              <C>               <C>
Global Equity Portfolio                                  1                       7                0               0.85%
Global Bond Portfolio                                    1                     110              0.1               0.60%
U.S. Balanced Portfolio                                  1                     154              0.1               0.75%
U.S. Equity Portfolio                                    1                    3529              3.4               0.75%
U.S. Bond Portfolio                                      1                    2301              2.2               0.40%
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Portfolio                        1                    3299              3.2               0.85%
Global Mutual Fund                                       1                     511              0.5                N/A
Global Equity Mutual Fund                                1                      74              0.1                N/A
Global Bond Mutual Fund                                  1                     124              0.1                N/A
U.S. Balanced Mutual Fund                                1                      45              0.0                N/A
U.S. Equity Mutual Fund                                  1                     766              0.7                N/A
U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Mutual Fund             1                      22              0.0                N/A
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Mutual Fund             1                       4              0.0                N/A
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Mutual Fund             1                      23              0.0                N/A
U.S. Bond Mutual Fund                                    1                      96              0.1                N/A
High Yield Mutual Fund                                   1                      35              0.0                N/A
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Mutual Fund                      1                     493              0.5                N/A
</TABLE>
(1) The composites presented in this report are single entity composites or the
assets of a single client. As such, internal dispersion for all periods is zero
and is not presented in this report. AIMR-PPS (TM) states that pooled funds,
including unit trusts (or collective funds) may be treated as separate
composites. As such, this report presents the composite performance results of
collective funds only and does not include separately managed accounts.
Composites for separately managed accounts are available upon request.

N/A = Not Applicable

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
USB Brinson New York                            Number of Accounts          Assets         Percentage of     Highest Annual
Composite Name                                     per Composite          ($ million)      Firm Assets        Fee on Assets
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                             <C>                       <C>              <C>               <C>
U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Portfolio              18                     616              0.6               0.75%
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Portfolio               4                     205              0.2               1.00%
High Yield Portfolio                                     3                     134              0.1               0.65%
</TABLE>

(2) Internal dispersion is calculated as the equally-weighted annual standard
deviation within a composite consisting of at least five accounts with full
year returns.

U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Equity: 1988, 5.91%; 1989, 4.87%; 1990, 0.54%;
1991, 11.55%; 1992, 3.68%; 1993, 5.21%; 1994, 5.49%; 1995, 3.07%; 1996, 1.02%;
1997, 2.86%.
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Equity: Dispersion for only 1995, 2.06%.
High Yield: 1993, 0.64%; 1994, 1.42%; 1995, 1.10%; 1996, 0.85%; 1997, 0.18%.
     

35
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION> 
 
Historical Annual Returns (as of December 31, 1998)
Name                               1998          1997          1996      1995      1994      1993     1992    1991    1990    1989
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                               <C>           <C>           <C>       <C>        <C>      <C>      <C>     <C>     <C>     <C>  
Global Equity Portfolio           14.64%        13.70%        18.19%    22.36%     0.75%    17.82%    5.27%  22.95%  -6.28%  24.63%
Global Bond Portfolio             13.89%         2.54%        10.27%    21.15%    -3.56%    11.19%    9.09%  20.12%  10.77%   8.98%
U.S. Balanced Portfolio            9.13%        14.94%        13.13%    27.28%    -0.16%    11.89%   10.04%  23.48%   4.41%  20.54%
U.S. Equity Portfolio             17.66%        26.86%        27.04%    42.41%     1.05%    17.47%   16.16%  36.59%  -8.46%  33.37%
U.S. Bond Portfolio                7.85%        10.19%         4.44%    18.62%    -2.29%    10.60%    8.13%  18.30%   9.35%  13.73%
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity
 Portfolio                        16.46%         7.33%        14.21%    17.63%     3.20%    23.88%   -2.54%  17.68%  -8.19%  22.04%
Global Mutual Fund                 8.32%        11.00%        14.10%    24.14%    -1.89%    11.15%    3.29%*    --      --      --
Global Equity Mutual Fund         14.03%        10.72%        17.26%    21.93%    -4.35%*      --       --      --      --      --
Global Bond Mutual Fund           11.98%         1.63%         9.30%    20.32%    -3.49%     3.86%*     --      --      --      --
U.S. Balanced Mutual Fund          9.92%        13.22%        11.32%    25.48%       --        --       --      --      --      --
U.S. Equity Mutual Fund           18.57%        24.76%        25.65%    40.58%    -1.63%*      --       --      --      --      --
U.S. Large Capitalization
 Equity Mutual Fund                5.87%*          --            --        --        --        --       --      --      --      --
U.S. Large Capitalization
 Growth Mutual Fund               24.90%        -0.55%*          --        --        --        --       --      --      --      --
U.S. Small Capitalization
 Growth Mutual Fund               -6.70%        -5.62%*          --        --        --        --       --      --      --      --
U.S. Bond Mutual Fund              8.37%         9.64%         3.53%     5.49%*      --        --       --      --      --      --
High Yield Mutual Fund             7.75%         2.34%*          --        --        --        --       --      --      --      --
Global (ex-U.S.) Equity
  Mutual Fund                     14.39%         5.74%        12.75%    15.55%     0.94%    -3.45%*     --      --      --      --
</TABLE> 
*Represents partial-year performance.  Returns are not annualized.     
                                                                              36
<PAGE>
 
For More Information

More information on the UBS Investment Funds is available free upon request:

Shareholder Reports

Additional information about the Funds' investments is available in the Funds'
annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders. In the Funds' annual report, you
will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that
significantly affected each Fund's performance during its last fiscal year.

Statement Of Additional Information (SAI)

The SAI provides more details about each Fund and its policies. The SAI is on
file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and is incorporated by
reference into (is legally considered part of) this prospectus.



TO OBTAIN INFORMATION:

By Telephone
Call 1-800-794-7753

By Mail
UBS Investment Funds
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798

By Email
[email protected]

On The Internet
Text-only versions of the prospectus and other documents pertaining to the Funds
can be viewed online or downloaded from:

 SEC: http://www.sec.gov

Information about the Funds (including the SAI) can also be reviewed and copied
at the SEC's public reference room in Washington, DC (phone 1-800-SEC-0330). Or,
you can obtain copies of this information by sending a request, along with a
duplicating fee, to the SEC's Public Reference Section, Washington, DC 
20549-6009.

The Funds are series of The Brinson Funds;
Registration Number: 811-6637

37
<PAGE>
 
                                                                  [Brinson Logo]

 


                                                   Class I Shares
                                                     Prospectus


                                                     May 3, 1999

                                                   Emerging Markets Equity Fund 
                                                   Emerging Markets Debt Fund



                                    As with any mutual fund, the Securities and
                                    Exchange Commission (SEC) has not approved
   [Brinson Logo]                   or disapproved of these securities or 
                                    determined whether this prospectus is 
- --------------------------------    adequate or complete. Any representation 
                                    to the contrary is a criminal offense.

209 South LaSalle Street
Chicago, Illinois 60604-1295
Tel: 1-800-448-2430
<PAGE>
 
Table of Contents
    
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S>                                                             <C>

The Brinson Investment Process                                   2

Overview of the Funds

  Emerging Markets Equity Fund                                   3

  Emerging Markets Debt Fund                                     4

Risk Considerations                                              5

Fees and Expenses                                                7

Investment Advisor                                               8

Prior Performance of Advisor                                     9

Pricing of Fund Shares                                          10

Purchasing Shares                                               11

Redeeming Shares                                                13

Dividends and Distributions                                     14

Tax Considerations                                              15

Appendix A                                                      16

For More Information                                            17
</TABLE>     

1
<PAGE>
 
Overview of the Funds     

The investment objective of each Fund is "fundamental" and may be changed only
with shareholder approval. Unless otherwise stated, each Fund's investment
policies are not fundamental and may be changed by the Funds' Trustees without a
shareholder vote. There can be no assurance that the Funds will be able to
attain their objectives.

Each Fund's primary investment practices and strategies are discussed in this
prospectus. Other practices, and their related risks, are described in the
Statement of Additional Information (SAI).
    
Each Fund's principal risks and strategies are provided within the Fund
descriptions that follow. Principal and secondary risks are discussed in detail
under "Risk Considerations" on page 5.    
    
The Brinson Funds strongly discourages market timers and short-term traders from
investing in the Funds. Shares of The Brinson Funds are not bank deposits and
are not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. The
value of your investment in a Fund will fluctuate, which means that you may lose
money.      

A Look At The Brinson Investment Process 
    
At Brinson Partners, we employ a global asset allocation strategy, actively
diversifying investments within and across all major asset classes. Our
investment decisions are based on fundamental research, internally developed
valuation systems and seasoned judgment. Our philosophy is that the
determination of fundamental investment value within the context of a globally
integrated economy is the focus of all investment decisions. World economies and
financial markets are interactive. Thus, investment management, both within and
across global stock and bond markets, must be based upon comprehensive knowledge
and analyses of integrated investment fundamentals.

Our investment style has a single focus -- investment fundamentals determine and
describe future cash flows that, for us, define investment value. It is our
belief that periodically there are important exploitable discrepancies between
market price and investment value. The price/value discrepancies then become the
building blocks for portfolio construction. Portfolio structure is focused on
both risk and return considerations in the context of full long-term investment
cycles.

Another aspect of Brinson Partners' approach is the management of a portfolio of
securities against a selected benchmark. If we are indifferent among markets, we
tend toward the normal weight, as determined by the proportion of each market in
the benchmark. Decisions to deviate from the normal mix of assets are a blend of
rigorous quantitative analysis, an understanding of the fundamental
relationships among global markets and the expertise of our investment
professionals. All security selection decisions for a Fund are made in relation
to the benchmark, as described in each Fund's principal strategy section. The
benchmark for each Fund is an index consisting of securities that are
representative of that Fund's investments. From time to time, we may substitute
securities from an equivalent index that we believe more accurately reflects
changes in our expectations for various markets.

Equity Selections

Our equity portfolio construction process focuses on the four layers of equity
management that best explain portfolio performance: market sensitivity, common
factor exposures, industry weightings and individual stock selection. Securities
are chosen from an extensive list of companies in all major markets and
industries. Stock selection is based on fundamental analysis, often
incorporating quantitative models. With the exception of the U.S. Small
Capitalization Growth Fund, the security selection decision seeks out medium-to-
larger capitalization issues that are attractively priced relative to underlying
fundamental value. Research focuses on the ability of individual companies to
generate profits. We also analyze industry competitive strategy, structure and
global integration. We visit management to understand company goals and their
competitive strategies.

Fixed Income Selections

We use an internally developed valuation model for our Fixed Income portfolios,
which quantifies our return expectations for all of the bond markets. Inputs to
this model include forecasts of inflation, risk premiums and interest rates. Our
credit review process incorporates both a top-down strategy, which focuses on
how macroeconomic forces shape various industry outlooks, and a bottom-up
strategy which relies on a combination of qualitative and quantitative factors.
Our qualitative assessment focuses on management strength, market position,
competitive environment, and financial flexibility. Our quantitative assessment
focuses on historical operating results, calculation of various credit ratios
and an expected future outlook. With the exception of the High Yield Fund, the
Fixed Income Funds generally invest in all categories of investment grade fixed
income securities, but emphasize the higher quality securities in this spectrum
(those with a credit rating of AA and above.) Our fixed income strategies
combine judgments about the absolute value of the fixed income universe and the
relative value of issuer sectors, maturity intervals, quality and coupon
segments and specific fixed income securities.     

                                                                               2
<PAGE>
 
Emerging Markets Equity Fund

Objective

The Fund seeks to maximize total U.S. dollar return, consisting of capital
appreciation and current income, while controlling risk.

Principal Strategies

The Fund intends to invest primarily in a portfolio of equity securities of
issuers located in at least three emerging markets countries, which may be
located in Asia, Europe, Latin America, Africa or the Middle East. As these
markets change and other countries' markets develop, the Fund expects the
countries in which it invests to change. The Fund is a non-diversified
portfolio.
    
All selection decisions are undertaken relative to the Brinson Emerging Markets
Normal Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its portfolio.

Normally, the Fund invests at least 65% of its assets in the equity securities
of issuers in emerging markets or securities on which the return is derived from
the equity securities of issuers in emerging markets, such as equity swap
contracts and equity index swap contracts.

Up to 35% of the Fund's assets may be invested in higher-yielding, lower-rated
bonds. The Fund may invest in Eurodollar securities, which are fixed income
securities of a U.S. issuer or a foreign issuer that are issued outside of the
United States.

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:

*  Foreign Country and Currency Risks
*  Geographic Concentration Risk
*  Market Risk
*  High Yield Risk
*  Diversification Risk
    
(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)     

Emerging Markets

The World Bank and other international agencies consider a country to be an
"emerging markets" country on the basis of such factors as trade initiatives,
per capita income and level of industrialization. Emerging market countries
generally include every nation in the world except the U.S., Canada, Japan,
Australia, New Zealand and most nations located in Western Europe.

Non-Diversified Portfolio

Invests most of its assets in a smaller number of issuers, resulting in more
potential volatility than diversified portfolios. Gains or losses on a single
security or issuer within the portfolio will, therefore, have a greater impact
on a fund's net asset value.

Lower-Rated Bonds

Bonds rated in the lower rating categories of Moody's and S&P, including
securities rated:
* Ba or lower by Moody's or
* BB or lower by S&P ("high yield securities").

Brinson Emerging Markets Normal Index

Constructed by Brinson Partners, this index is designed to minimize country
specific risk while providing regional exposure similar to the Morgan Stanley
Capital International Emerging Markets (Free) Index (MSCI-EMF), a market
capitalization weighted benchmark.

Fund Performance
    
There is no performance quoted as the Fund has not yet commenced operations.

3

<PAGE>
 
Emerging Markets Debt Fund

Objectives

The Fund seeks to maximize total U.S. dollar return, consisting of capital
appreciation and current income, while controlling risk.

Principal Strategies

The Fund intends to invest primarily in a portfolio of debt securities of
issuers located in at least three emerging markets countries, which may be
located in Asia, Europe, Latin America, Africa or the Middle East. As these
markets change and other countries' markets develop, the Fund expects the
countries in which it invests to change. The Fund is a non-diversified
portfolio.
    
All selection decisions are undertaken relative to the J.P. Morgan Emerging
Markets Bond Index Plus, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its
portfolio.     

Normally, the Fund invests at least 65% of its total assets in debt securities
issued by:
* Governments
* Government-related entities (including participations in loans between
  governments and financial institutions)
* Corporations
* Entities organized to restructure outstanding debt of issuers in emerging
  markets

The Fund also invests in debt securities on which the return is derived
primarily from other emerging market instruments, such as interest rate swap
contracts and currency swap contracts. The Fund may invest in Eurodollar
securities, which are fixed income securities of a U.S. issuer or a foreign
issuer that are issued outside the United States.

A substantial amount of the assets of the Fund may be invested in higher-
yielding, lower-rated bonds.

Emerging Markets

The World Bank and other international agencies consider a country to be an
"emerging markets" country on the basis of such factors as trade initiatives,
per capita income and level of industrialization. Emerging market countries
generally include every nation in the world except the U.S., Canada, Japan,
Australia, New Zealand and most nations located in Western Europe.

Non-Diversified Portfolio

Invests most of its assets in a smaller number of issuers, resulting in more
potential volatility than diversified portfolios. Gains or losses on a single
security or issuer within the portfolio will, therefore, have a greater impact
on a fund's net asset value.

Lower-Rated Bonds

Bonds rated in the lower rating categories of Moody's and S&P, including
securities rated:
* Ba or lower by Moody's or
* BB or lower by S&P ("high yield securities").

J.P. Morgan Emerging Markets Bond Index Plus

Comprised of external-currency-denominated emerging markets debt, including
Brady Bonds, loans, Eurobonds and local market instruments.

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:

* High Yield Risk
* Interest Rate Risk
* Foreign Country and Currency Risks
* Geographic Concentration Risk
* Diversification Risk
    
(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)     

Fund Performance
    
There is no performance quoted as the Fund has not yet commenced operations.
                                                                               4
<PAGE>
 
Risk Considerations

All Fund investments are subject to risk and may decline in value. Each Fund's
exposure depends upon its specific investment practices. The amount and types of
risk vary depending on:
* The investment objective
* The Fund's ability to achieve its objective
* The markets in which the Fund invests
* The investments the Fund makes in those markets
* Prevailing economic conditions over the period of an investment

Please note that there are other circumstances that could adversely affect your
investment and potentially prevent a Fund from achieving its objective.

Counterparty Risk

The risk that when a Fund engages in repurchase, reverse repurchase, derivative,
when-issued, forward commitment, delayed settlement and securities lending
transactions with another party, it relies on the other party to consummate the
transaction and is subject to the risk of default by the other party. Failure of
the other party to complete the transaction may cause the Fund to incur a loss
or to miss an opportunity to obtain a price believed to be advantageous.

Credit Risk

The risk that the issuer of a security, or the counterparty to a contract, will
default or otherwise be unable to honor a financial obligation. Debt securities
rated below investment-grade are especially susceptible to this risk.
    
Derivative Risk

The risk that downward price changes in a security may result in a loss greater
than a Fund's investment in the security. This risk exists through the use of
certain securities or techniques that tend to magnify changes in an index or
market.

Diversification Risk

The risk that a non-diversified Fund will be more volatile than a diversified
Fund because it invests more of its assets in a smaller number of issuers. The
gains or losses on a single security or issuer will, therefore, have a greater
impact on the non-diversified Fund's net asset value.

Foreign Country and Currency Risks

The risk that prices of a Fund's investments in foreign securities may go down
because of unfavorable foreign government actions, political instability or the
absence of accurate information about foreign issuers. Also, a decline in the
value of foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar will reduce the value of
securities denominated in those currencies. Foreign securities are sometimes
less liquid and harder to value than securities of U.S. issuers. These risks are
more severe for securities of issuers in emerging market countries.

On January 1, 1999, the European Monetary Union (the "EMU") introduced a new
single currency, the Euro, which will replace the national currencies of
participating member nations. If a Fund holds investments in nations with
currencies replaced by the Euro, the investment process, including trading,
foreign exchange, payments, settlements, cash accounts, custody and accounting,
will be impacted. Although it is not possible to fully predict the impact of the
Euro on a Fund, the transition and the elimination of currency risk among
nations participating in the EMU may change the economic environment and
behavior of investors, particularly in European markets.

Geographic Concentration Risk

The risk that if a Fund has most of its investments in a single country or
region, its portfolio will be more susceptible to factors adversely affecting
issuers located in that country or region than would a more geographically
diverse portfolio of securities.

High Yield Risk

The risk that bonds with ratings of BB (S&P) or Ba (Moody's) or below are
subject to greater credit risk than investment grade bonds. These securities are
considered to be of poor standing and are predominantly speculative with respect
to the issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with
the terms of the obligations and involve major risk exposure. Also called "high
yield bonds" or "junk bonds."

Interest Rate Risk
The risk that changing interest rates may adversely affect the value of an
investment. With fixed-rate securities, an increase in prevailing interest rates
typically causes the value of a Fund's securities to fall, while a decline in
prevailing interest rates may produce an increase in the market value of the
securities. Changes in interest rates will affect the value of longer-term fixed
income securities more than shorter-term securities and lower quality securities
more than higher quality securities.

5
<PAGE>
 
         
    
Market Risk
The risk that the market value of a Fund's investments will fluctuate as the
stock and bond markets fluctuate. Market risk may affect a single issuer,
industry or section of the economy or it may affect the market as a whole.

Prepayment Risk
The risk that issuers will prepay fixed rate obligations when interest rates
fall, forcing the Fund to re-invest in obligations with lower interest rates
than the original obligations.

Small Company Risk
The risk that investments in smaller companies may be more volatile than
investments in larger companies, as smaller companies generally experience
higher growth and failure rates. The trading volume of smaller company
securities is normally lower than that of larger companies. Changes in the
demand for the securities of smaller companies generally has a disproportionate
effect on their market price, tending to make prices rise more in response to
buying demand and fall more in response to selling pressure.

Both the Emerging Markets Debt Fund and the Emerging Markets Equity Fund are
subject to the above risks, with the exception of "Small Company Risk," which
only applies to the Emerging Markets Equity Fund.     

                                                                               6
<PAGE>
 
Fees and Expenses

The tables below describe the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and
hold shares of the Brinson Funds--Class I shares.

Shareholder Transaction Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
<S>                                              <C> 
Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases         None

Emerging Markets Equity Fund:
  Purchase/Redemption Transaction Fee            1.50%*

Emerging Markets Debt Fund:
  Purchase Transaction Fee                       0.75%*
</TABLE> 

*These transaction charges are paid to the Funds and used by them to defray
transaction costs associated with the purchase and sale of securities by the
Funds.

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that are deducted from Fund assets, expressed as a % of
 average net assets)
                                                                                                                 Total Fund
                                                                                                                  Operating
                                                                                Gross       Amount of Fee         Expenses
                                                                              Operating     Waiver and/or     (after fee waiver
                                                  Management      Other       Expenses/1/      Expense         and/or expense
CLASS I                                            Fees/1/      Expenses/1/    06/30/98     Reimbursement/1/   reimbursement)/1/
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                 <C>            <C>           <C>              <C>               <C>
Emerging Markets Equity                              1.10%         0.50%         1.60%            0.00%             1.60%
Emerging Markets Debt                                0.65%         0.50%         1.15%            0.00%             1.15%
</TABLE>

/1/ The Advisor has agreed irrevocably to permanently waive its fees and
reimburse certain expenses so that total operating expenses for the Funds will
not exceed 1.60% and 1.15%, respectively. The fees and expenses noted for both
Funds are based on estimates.     

Expense Example
This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the
Brinson Fund--Class I shares to the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The
example assumes that you invest $10,000 in a Fund for the time periods indicated
and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also
assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's
operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs and the return on
your investment may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs
would be:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                           1 year  3 years  5 years   10 years
- ---------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                        <C>     <C>      <C>         <C>
Emerging Markets Equity      $463     $811   $1,182     $2,228
Emerging Markets Debt        $191     $438   $  703     $1,462
</TABLE>

7
<PAGE>
 
Investment Advisor
    
Brinson Partners Inc., an investment management firm primarily for institutional
accounts, is the investment advisor for the Brinson Funds, as well as for nine
other investment companies. Brinson Partners Inc. and its predecessor entities
have operated under the same investment philosophy and senior management for
over 18 years. Offices are located worldwide:     

Bahrain    Geneva     New York         Sydney  
Basel      Hong Kong  Paris            Tokyo
Chicago    London     Rio de Janeiro   Zurich
Frankfurt  Melbourne  Singapore

As of December 31, 1998, Brinson Partners Inc. had total assets under management
of approximately $297 billion. Brinson Partners is a wholly-owned subsidiary of
UBS AG (formed by the merger of Union Bank of Switzerland and Swiss Bank
Corporation).

Advisory Fees

The following chart shows the investment advisory fees payable to Brinson
Partners Inc., before fee waivers, by each Fund during its last fiscal year.

Management Fees Paid
(expressed as a percentage of average net assets)

Emerging Markets Equity Fund  1.10%
Emerging Markets Debt Fund    0.65

The Advisor has irrevocably agreed to waive its fees and reimburse certain
expenses so that the total operating expenses of the Brinson Fund--Class I
shares will not exceed the following amounts for each of the respective Funds:

Emerging Markets Equity Fund  1.60%
Emerging Markets Debt Fund    1.15

Portfolio Management

Investment decisions for the Funds are made by an investment management team at
Brinson Partners. No member of the investment management team is primarily
responsible for making recommendations for portfolio purchases.

Year 2000 Issue

Some computer systems will be unable to recognize dates after December 31, 1999.
The Funds' securities trades, pricing and accounting services and other
operations could be adversely affected by the defects in computer systems
utilized by Brinson Partners, or the custodian and transfer agent. Brinson
Partners is taking steps that it believes are reasonably designed to identify
any potential problems with the computer systems it uses. The Funds' other
service providers have told Brinson Partners that they are taking comparable
steps. Brinson Partners does not believe that the Year 2000 issue will have a
material adverse effect on its business operations or results of operations.

The cost of addressing the Year 2000 issue, if substantial, could adversely
affect companies and governments that issue securities held by one or more
Funds. This is particularly true in emerging markets, which have been reported
not to be as prepared as domestic companies and markets for Year 2000. The Year
2000 issue also could cause improperly functioning trading systems in emerging
markets which could cause settlement and liquidity problems. At this point, the
Funds cannot predict the impact on their portfolios of Year 2000 problems in
such markets.

Portfolio Turnover
    
The Funds generally intend to purchase securities for long-term investment.
Portfolio turnover rates are not a factor in making buy and sell decisions.
Increased portfolio turnover may result in higher costs for brokerage
commissions, dealer mark-ups and other transaction costs. It may also result in
taxable capital gains. Higher costs associated with increased portfolio turnover
may offset gains in the Fund's performance.     

Brinson Partners Inc.
209 South LaSalle Street
Chicago, IL 60604-1295

                                                                             8
<PAGE>
 
Prior Performance of Advisor
    
The following table sets forth the Advisor's composite performance data relating
to the historical performance of institutional private accounts managed by the
Advisor that have investment objectives, policies, strategies and risks
substantially similar to those of the various Funds. The data is provided to
illustrate the past performance of the Advisor in managing investment portfolios
which are substantially similar to each of the applicable Funds as measured
against specified market indices. This performance presentation includes certain
composites of Brinson Partners, Inc. and certain composites of UBS Brinson New
York (formerly UBS Asset Management New York). These two firms are now part of
one organization as a result of a business combination on June 30, 1998. The
portfolio management process and performance measurement are distinct for the
two entities through June 30, 1998. The performance data of each of the Brinson
Funds is also included in the table.

UBS Brinson (the Firm) has prepared and presented this report in compliance with
the Performance Presentation Standards of the Association for Investment
Management and Research (AIMR-PPS/TM/). AIMR has not been involved with the
preparation or review of this report. A list of all Firm composites is available
upon request. The Firm is defined as all portfolios managed and administered
from UBS Brinson's Chicago and New York offices. The effective date of Firm
compliance is January 1, 1993; certain terminated accounts are not included
prior to that date.

Composites consisting of more than one portfolio are asset weighted by 
beginning-of-period asset values. Investment results for both the Funds and the
composites are time-weighted performance calculations representing total return,
and are calculated in a manner consistent with the U.S. Securities and Exchange
Commission's ("SEC") method of calculating returns. Returns are calculated using
geometric linking of monthly returns. Composites are valued at least monthly,
taking into account cash flows. All realized and unrealized capital gains and
losses, as well as all dividends and interest from investments and cash
balances, are included. Investment transactions are accounted for on a trade
date basis with the exception of selected equity accounts. Prior to January
1996, settlement date accounting was used in these accounts, with trade date
accrual used subsequent to that date. Total returns exclude the impact of
advisor fees, custodial fees, and any other administrative expenses and the
impact of any income taxes an investor might have incurred as a result of
taxable ordinary income and capital gains realized by the account. Investment
returns will be reduced by fees and other expenses incurred. Investment advisory
fees are described in Part II of Form ADV. Upon request, we will furnish
information showing the effect an investment advisory fee would have had on
performance; due to the graduated nature of fees, as account size increases, the
annual percentage fee will decline.

Results include all actual fee-paying, discretionary client portfolios including
those clients no longer with the Firm. Portfolios are included in the composite
beginning with the first full month of performance to the present or to the
cessation of the client's relationship with the Firm. No alterations of
composites as presented here have occurred due to changes in personnel. Accounts
of all sizes are included in composite performance and no minimum account
relationship size was set for inclusion in the composites as the account size
does not impact portfolio management style. The composites are not subject to
certain expenses, investment limitations, diversification requirements and
restrictions to which the Funds are subject and which are imposed by the
Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "Act") and the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended. Had such expenses, limitations, requirements and restrictions
been applicable to the composites, the performance results would have been
adversely affected. The composite's performance presented does not represent the
historical performance of the Funds and should not be interpreted as indicative
of future performance of the Funds.     

 9
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION> 
                                                                   Annualized Returns
                                                  One Year   Two Years  Three Years  Five Years  Ten Years
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                               <C>        <C>        <C>            <C>        <C> 
Brinson Emerging Markets
 Equity Portfolio/1, 2/                            -24.71     -18.20       -10.19       NA         NA
MSCI Emerging Markets (Free) Index/3/              -25.34     -18.75       -11.21       NA         NA
Brinson Emerging Markets Normal Index/3/           -10.76     -13.05        -5          NA         NA
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio/1, 2/      -13.99       1.25        13.97       NA         NA
JP Morgan EMBI+/3/                                 -14.35      -1.61        10.48       NA         NA
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

FOOTNOTES:
(1)  The Portfolio is a composite of funds substantially similar to the Fund to
which the Portfolio is being compared. Performance figures for the Advisor
coxmposites are net of advisory fees and all expenses. Advisory fees are
determined by applying the highest fee schedule as of December 31, 1998.

Performance figures for the composites gross of fees are:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   Annualized Returns
                                               One Year     Two Years    Three Years    Five Years    Ten Years
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                            <C>          <C>          <C>            <C>           <C>
Brinson Emerging Markets Equity Portfolio       -23.61        -17.10        -9.09           NA           NA
Brinson Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio         -13.34         -1.90        14.62           NA           NA
</TABLE>

(2)  For additional Fund disclosure, see Appendix A on page 17 of this
prospectus.

(3)  Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Emerging Markets (Free) Index
is a market capitalization weighted index which captures 60% of a country's
total capitalization while maintaining the overall risk structure of the market.
Stocks are included at their full market capitalization weight, and the index
reflects actual buyable opportunities for the non-domestic investor. Brinson
Emerging Markets Normal Index is an unmanaged index compiled by the Advisor that
is constructed to minimize specific country risk while providing regional
exposure similar to the MSCI Emerging Markets (Free) Index. J.P. Morgan Emerging
Markets Bond Index Plus (EMBI+) is comprised of external-currency-denominated
emerging markets debt, including Brady Bonds, loans, Eurobonds and local market
instruments.     

Pricing of Fund Shares.

The Brinson Fund--Class I shares are bought and sold at net asset value (NAV),
which is calculated as of the close of business on each day that the New York
Stock Exchange (NYSE) is open (currently 4:00 p.m. Eastern time). A Fund's
securities are valued based on the last sale price or, where market quotations
are not readily available, are based on fair value as determined in good faith
by the Trust's board of trustees.

Foreign securities are valued at their closing prices on the exchange on which
they are traded. The resulting values are converted from the local currency into
U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. Foreign securities may trade in their
local markets on weekends or other days when a Fund does not price its shares.
Therefore, the NAV of Funds holding foreign securities may change on days when
shareholders will not be able to buy or sell their Fund shares.
    
How the Funds Calculate NAV

The NAV of a class of shares of a Fund is determined by dividing the value of
the securities and other assets, less liabilities, allocated to the class by the
number of outstanding shares of the class.     

Purchase and redemption orders for shares received by the close of regular
trading (currently 4:00 p.m., Eastern time) are priced according to the NAV
determined on that day. Purchase and redemption orders received after the close
of trading are priced according to the next determined price per share. The
Funds reserve the right to change the time at which purchases and redemptions
are priced if the NYSE closes at a time other than 4:00 p.m. Eastern time or if
an emergency exists.
         

                                                                            10
<PAGE>
 
Purchasing Shares

The minimum initial investment for Fund shares is $1,000,000. Subsequent
investments for Fund shares will be accepted in minimum amounts of $2,500. The
minimum purchase requirement for IRAs is $2,000. The Funds reserve the right to
vary the investment minimums and subsequent minimums for additional investments
at any time. In addition, Brinson Partners may waive the minimum initial
investment requirement for any investor at its discretion. Purchases may be made
in one of the following ways:

If you have any questions or need further information, call 1-800-448-2430.

By Telephone              

Call 1-800-448-2430 to arrange for a telephone transaction.

If you want to make future transactions (e.g., purchase additional shares,
redeem or exchange shares) by telephone, you will need to elect this option
either on the initial application or subsequently in writing.
    
Complete and sign an application for the Brinson Funds--Class I shares.     

By Mail
         
Make your check payable to "Brinson __________ Funds--Class I"

If you are adding to your existing account, enclose the remittance portion of
your account statement and include the amount of investment, account name and
number.
    
Mail your application and/or check to:

The Brinson Funds
c/o Transfer Agent
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798     

By Wire

If you are opening a new account, call the Funds at 1-800-448-2430 to arrange
for a wire transaction.

Then wire federal funds to:

The Chase Manhattan Bank
ABA#021000021
DDA#9102-783504
FBO: "Brinson _________ Funds--Class I" and include your name and new account
number.

Complete and sign an application for Brinson Funds--Class I shares and mail
immediately following the initial wire transaction to:
    
The Brinson Funds
c/o Transfer Agent
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798     

If you are adding to your existing account, you do not need to call the Funds to
arrange for a wire transaction, but be sure to include your name and account
number.

Through Financial Institutions/Professionals
    
In some cases, the Funds have entered into one or more Sales Agreements with
brokers, dealers or financial institutions (banks and bank trust departments)
(each an "Authorized Dealer"). The Authorized Dealer, or intermediaries
designated by the Authorized Dealer (a "Sub-designee"), may accept purchase and
redemption orders that are in "good form" on behalf of the Funds. A Fund will be
deemed to have received a purchase or redemption order when the Authorized
Dealer or Sub-designee accepts the order. Such orders will be priced at the
Fund's net asset value next computed after such order is accepted. These
Authorized Dealers may charge the investor a transaction fee or other fee for
their services at the time of purchase. These fees would not be otherwise
charged if you purchase shares directly from the Funds. It is the responsibility
of such broker-dealers or service organizations to promptly forward purchase
orders with payments to the Funds.     

Telephone orders are accepted from broker-dealers or service organizations if
they have been previously approved by the Funds.

Brinson Partners, or its affiliates, may, from its own resources, compensate
broker-dealers or other financial intermediaries ("Service Providers") for
services performed with respect to a Fund's Class I shares. These services may
include marketing, shareholder servicing, recordkeeping and/or other services.
Payments made for any of these purposes may be made from Brinson Partners'
revenues, its profits or any other sources available. When these service
arrangements are in effect, they are generally made available to all qualified
Service Providers.

11
<PAGE>
 
The Funds will not accept a check endorsed over by a third party. The Funds
reserve the right to reject any purchase order and to suspend the offering of
shares of the Brinson Funds. This includes purchase orders that, in the
reasonable belief of the Funds have been made by market timers or short-term
traders.

You will be subject to a 1.50% transaction charge in connection with your
purchase of shares of the Emerging Markets Equity Fund and a 0.75% transaction
charge in connection with your purchase of shares of the Emerging Markets Debt
Fund. Shares of the Funds are sold at a price which is equal to the NAV of such
shares, plus the transaction charge. The transaction charges do not apply to the
reinvestment of dividends or capital gain distributions. The transaction charges
are paid to the Funds and used by them to defray the transaction costs
associated with the purchase and sale of securities within the Funds.

Exchanging Shares

You can exchange your Class I shares for Class I shares of other Funds.
Exchanges will not be permitted between the Brinson Fund--Class I shares and
either the UBS Investment Funds Class of shares or the Brinson Fund--Class N
shares.

Under certain circumstances, the Funds may:
* Limit the number of exchanges between Funds
* Reject a telephone exchange order
* Modify or discontinue the exchange privilege upon 60 days' written notice
    
Exchanged Funds are subject to the minimum initial investment requirement. The
procedures that apply to redeeming shares also apply to exchanging shares. An
exchange is the sale of shares of one fund and purchase of shares of another and
could result in taxable gain or loss in a non-tax sheltered account.     

Account Options

The following account options are available. There are no charges for the
programs noted below and you may change or terminate these plans at any time by
written notice to the Funds. For information about participating in these
account options, call the transfer agent at 1-800-448-2430.


Automatic Investment Plan  

Through this option, money can be electronically deducted from your checking,
savings or bank money market accounts and invested in the Funds each month or
quarter.

Complete the Automatic Investment Plan Application, which is available upon
request by calling 1-800-448-2430, and mail it to the address indicated.

The initial $1,000,000 minimum investment still applies, however, subsequent
investments can be as little as $500.

The Funds may alter or terminate the Automatic Investment Plan at any time.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan  

If you have a minimum of $1,000,000 in your account, you may direct the transfer
agent to make payments to you (or anyone you designate) monthly, quarterly or
semi-annually.

Withdrawals are drawn from share redemptions and must be a minimum of $500 per
payment. Under the Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP), you must elect to have
dividends and distributions automatically reinvested in additional Fund shares.

The Funds may terminate any SWP if the value of the account falls below $50,000
due to share redemptions or an exchange of shares for shares of another Class I
Fund.

Individual Retirement Account

You may open an IRA, a tax-deferred retirement account, with the Funds if you
are under age 70-1/2. The minimum purchase requirement for an IRA is $2,000.

                                                                       12
<PAGE>
 
Redeeming Shares

Your shares will be redeemed at the NAV next calculated after your order is
received by the Funds' transfer agent in good order. Your order will be
processed promptly and you will generally receive the proceeds within five
business days.

Please note that proceeds for redemption requests made shortly after a recent
purchase by check will be distributed once the check clears, which may take up
to 15 days.

The Funds reserve the right to pay redemptions "in kind" (i.e., payment in
securities rather than in cash) if the amount you are redeeming is large enough
to affect a Fund's operations (for example, if it represents more than $250,000
or 1% of the Fund's assets). In these cases, you might incur brokerage costs
converting the securities to cash.

You will be subject to a 1.50% transaction charge in connection with each
redemption of shares of the Emerging Markets Equity Fund. Redemption requests
for the Emerging Markets Equity Fund are paid at the NAV less the transaction
charge. Redemptions which are made in kind with securities are not subject to
the transaction charge.

You may redeem some or all of your shares any day the NYSE is open for business
by doing one of the following (if you have any questions, call the transfer
agent at 1-800-448-2430).

                                                  
By Telephone     

If you have chosen the telephone redemption privilege on the initial application
or subsequently arranged in writing, you may call 1-800-448-2430 to redeem
shares.

By Mail         
    
Shareholders may sell shares by making a written request to the Funds at: P.O.
Box 2798 Boston, MA 02208-2798     

Include signatures of all persons required to sign for transactions, exactly as
their name appears on the account application.

To protect your account from fraud, the Funds may require a signature guarantee
for certain redemptions (see "Signature Guarantees" below).

By Bank Wire  

If you have chosen the wire redemption privilege on the initial application or
subsequently arranged in writing, you may request the Funds to wire your
proceeds to a predesignated bank account.

Call 1-800-448-2430.

Wire redemption requests must be received by the transfer agent by 4:00 p.m.
Eastern time for money to be wired the next business day.

Through Financial
Institutionals/Professionals

Contact your financial institution or professional for more information.

Important note: Each institution or professional may have its own procedures and
requirements for selling shares and may charge fees.

13
<PAGE>
 
Redemption requests should be accompanied by the Fund's name, your Fund account
number and the dollar amount or number of shares to be redeemed. The Fund will
mail a check to your account address or, if you have elected the wire redemption
privilege, the Fund will wire the proceeds to your bank.

Signature Guarantees

To protect your account from fraud, the Fund and its agent may require a
signature guarantee for certain redemptions to verify the identity of the person
who has authorized a redemption from your account. Please contact the Fund for
further information.

Telephone Transactions

You may give up some level of security by choosing to buy or sell shares by
telephone, rather than by mail. The Funds will employ reasonable procedures to
confirm that telephone instructions are genuine. If they do not employ these
procedures, the Funds or the transfer agent may be liable for any losses due to
unauthorized or fraudulent transactions. A written confirmation will be provided
for all purchase, exchange and redemption transactions initiated by telephone.

Transfer of Securities

Under certain circumstances, investors may be permitted to purchase Fund shares
by transferring securities to a separate Fund that meets the original Fund's
investment objective and policies. (Please see the Statement of Additional
Information for more information.)

Dividends and Distributions

Each Fund passes most of its net investment income along to investors in the
form of distributions. All shareholders of a Fund are entitled to a
proportionate share of the Fund's net income and realized capital gains on its
investments.

Net investment income for all of the Funds consists of all dividends and
interest received, less expenses (including fees payable to the Advisor and its
affiliates).

Dividends from net investment income are declared, and paid, by each Fund semi-
annually--in June and December. In December, the Funds will distribute
substantially all of their net long-term capital gains and any undistributed net
short-term capital gains realized during the one year period commencing November
1 (or date of the creation of the Fund, if later) and ending October 31. At the
same time, the Funds will distribute all of their net investment income earned
through the end of December and not previously distributed as ordinary (not
capital) income.

Dividends and other distributions paid on each class of shares of a Fund are
calculated at the same time and in the same manner. Dividends on each class
might be affected differently by the allocation of other class-specific
expenses.
    
Unless you notify the transfer agent in writing that you elect to receive your
income dividends and capital gain distributions in cash, all will be reinvested
automatically in additional Fund shares of the same class of a Fund.
Distribution options may be changed at any time by requesting a change in
writing. Dividends are reinvested on the reinvestment date at the net asset
value determined at the close of business on that date. Please note that shares
purchased shortly before the record date for a dividend or distribution may have
the effect of returning capital, although such dividends and distributions are
subject to taxes.     

                                                                              14
<PAGE>
 
Tax Considerations

Following is a brief discussion of the general tax treatment of various
distributions from the Funds. It is not an exhaustive discussion, and your
particular tax status may be different. We encourage you to consult with your
own tax advisor about federal, state and local tax considerations.
    
In general, distributions from a Fund are taxable to you as either ordinary
income or capital gains. This is true whether you invest your distributions in
additional shares of a Fund or receive them in cash. Any capital gains
distributed by a Fund are taxable to you as long-term capital gains no matter
how long you have owned your shares. The rate of tax will generally depend on
how long the Fund held the securities on which it realized the gains.     

It is expected that distributions from the Emerging Markets Debt Fund will
consist primarily of ordinary income as a result of its investment objective and
strategies.

When you sell or exchange your shares of a Fund, you may have a capital gain or
loss. The tax rate on any gain from the sale or exchange of your shares depends
on how long you have held your shares.
    
Fund distributions and gains from the sale or exchange of your shares will
generally be subject to state and local income tax. Ex-U.S. investors may be
subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax.

If any of the following situation apply to you, the Funds will be required by
the IRS to withhold 31% of your taxable distributions:

* you do not provide your correct taxpayer identification number, or
* you do not certify that such number is correct, or
* if the IRS instructs the Fund to do so

Shareholders will be advised annually of the source and the tax status of all
Fund distributions for federal income tax purposes.

Buying a Dividend

If you buy shares in a Stock Fund just before the Fund makes any distribution,
or if you buy shares in any Bond Fund just prior to a capital gain distribution,
you will receive some of the purchase price back in the form of a taxable
distribution.

Multiple Classes

The Funds are a series of The Brinson Funds, a Delaware business trust, and
currently offer three classes of shares: the Brinson Funds--Class I, Brinson
Funds--Class N and UBS Investment Funds Class of shares.

15
<PAGE>
 
Appendix A

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>

                                                                                        As of December 31, 1998
Brinson Partners, Inc.                                           Number of Accounts    Assets        Percentage of  Highest Annual
Composite Name                                                     per Composite    ($ millions)      Firm Assets   Fee on Assets
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                       <C>             <C>             <C>            <C>
Emerging Markets Equity Portfolio                                         1               401             0.4            1.10%
Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio                                           1               398             0.4            0.65%
</TABLE>
 
The composites presented in this report are single entity composites or the
assets of a single client. As such, internal dispersion for all periods is zero
and is not presented in this report. AIMR-PPS (TM) states that pooled funds,
including unit trusts (or collective funds) may be treated as separate
composites. As such, this report presents the composite performance results of
collective funds only and does not include separately managed accounts.
Composites for separately managed accounts are available upon request.
 
Historical Annual Returns (as of December 31 each year)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>

Name                                                                        1998     1997     1996     1995     1994
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                                        <C>      <C>      <C>       <C>      <C>
Emerging Markets Equity Portfolio                                         -23.74%  -11.81%    9.12%   -6.34%*    --
Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio                                           -13.47%   19.35%   45.00%   17.63%*    --
</TABLE>


*Represents partial-year performance.  Returns are not annualized.     

                                                                              16
<PAGE>
 
For More Information

More information on the Brinson Funds is available free upon request:

Shareholder Reports

Additional information about the Funds' investments is available in the Funds'
annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders. In the Funds' annual report, you
will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that
significantly affected each Fund's performance during its last fiscal year.

Statement Of Additional Information (SAI)

The SAI provides more details about each Fund and its policies. The SAI is on
file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and is incorporated by
reference into (is legally considered part of) this prospectus.

TO OBTAIN INFORMATION:

By Telephone
Call 1-800-448-2430

By Mail
The Brinson Funds
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798

By Email
[email protected]

On The Internet
Text-only versions of the prospectus and other documents pertaining to the Funds
can be viewed online or downloaded from:
 SEC: http://www.sec.gov
 Brinson Partners: http://www.ubsbrinson.com

Information about the Funds (including the SAI) can also be reviewed and copied
at the SEC's public reference room in Washington, DC (phone 1-800-SEC-0330). Or,
you can obtain copies of this information by sending a request, along with a
duplicating fee, to the SEC's Public Reference Section, Washington, DC 20549-
6009.

The Funds are series of The Brinson Funds.
Registration number: 811-6637

17
<PAGE>
 
                                                                  [Brinson Logo]

                                                   Class N Shares
                                                     Prospectus
                                                                                

                                                         May 3, 1999

                                                    Emerging Markets Equity Fund

                                                    Emerging Markets Debt Fund

                                       As with any mutual fund, the Securities
                                       and Exchange Commission (SEC) has not
                                       approved or disapproved of these
                                       securities or determined whether this
                                       prospectus is adequate or complete. Any
                                       representation to the contrary is a
                                       criminal offense.

[Brinson Logo]

209 South LaSalle Street . Chicago, Illinois 60604-1295
Tel: 1-800-448-2430



<PAGE>
 
Table of Contents

The Brinson Investment Process                        2
    
Overview of the Funds      

     Emerging Markets Equity Fund                     3

     Emerging Markets Debt Fund                       4

Risk Considerations                                   5

Fees and Expenses                                     7

Investment Advisor                                    9

Prior Performance of Advisor                         10

Pricing of Fund Shares                               11

Purchasing Shares                                    12

Redeeming Shares                                     14

Dividends and Distributions                          15

Tax Considerations                                   16

Appendix A                                           17

For More Information                                 18


1
<PAGE>
 
Overview of the Funds
 
The investment objective of each Fund is "fundamental" and may be changed only
with shareholder approval. Unless otherwise stated, each Fund's investment
policies are not fundamental and may be changed by the Funds' Trustees without a
shareholder vote. There can be no assurance that the Funds will be able to
attain their objectives.

Each Fund's primary investment practices and strategies are discussed in this
prospectus. Other practices, and their related risks, are described in the
Statement of Additional Information (SAI).

Each Fund's principal risks and strategies are provided within the Fund
descriptions that follow. Principal and secondary risks are discussed in detail
under "Risk Considerations" on page 5.

The Brinson Funds strongly discourages market timers and short-term traders from
investing in the Funds. Shares of The Brinson Funds are not bank deposits and
are not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. The
value of your investment in a Fund will fluctuate, which means that you may lose
money.    

A Look At The Brinson Investment Process
    
At Brinson Partners, we employ a global asset allocation strategy, actively
diversifying investments within and across all major asset classes. Our
investment decisions are based on fundamental research, internally developed
valuation systems and seasoned judgement. Our philosophy is that the
determination of fundamental investment value within the context of a globally
integrated economy is the focus of all investment decisions. World economies and
financial markets are interactive. Thus, investment management, both within and
across global stock and bond markets, must be based upon comprehensive knowledge
and analyses of integrated investment fundamentals.

Our investment style has a single focus--investment fundamentals determine and
describe future cash flows that, for us, define investment value. It is our
belief that periodically there are important exploitable discrepancies between
market price and investment value. The price/value discrepancies then become
the building blocks for portfolio construction. Portfolio structure is focused
on both risk and return considerations in the context of full long-term
investment cycles.

Another aspect of Brinson Partners' approach is the management of a portfolio of
securities against a selected benchmark. If we are indifferent among markets, we
tend toward the normal weight, as determined by the proportion of each market in
the benchmark. Decisions to deviate from the normal mix of assets are a blend of
rigorous quantitative analysis, an understanding of the fundamental
relationships among global markets and the expertise of our investment
professionals. All security selection decisions for a Fund are made in relation
to the benchmark, as described in each Fund's principal strategy section. The
benchmark for each Fund is an index consisting of securities that are
representative of that Fund's investments. From time to time, we may substitute
securities from an equivalent index that we believe more accurately reflects
changes in our expectations for various markets.

Equity Selections
Our equity portfolio construction process focuses on the four layers of equity
management that best explain portfolio performance: market sensitivity, common
factor exposures, industry weightings and individual stock selection. Securities
are chosen from an extensive list of companies in all major markets and
industries. Stock selection is based on fundamental analysis, often
incorporating quantitative models. With the exception of the U.S. Small
Capitalization Growth Fund, the security selection decision seeks out medium-to-
larger capitalization issues that are attractively priced relative to underlying
fundamental value. Research focuses on the ability of individual companies to
generate profits. We also analyze industry competitive strategy, structure and
global integration. We visit management to understand company goals and their
competitive strategies.

Fixed Income Selections
We use an internally developed valuation model for our Fixed Income portfolios,
which quantifies our return expectations for all of the bond markets. Inputs to
this model include forecasts of inflation, risk premiums and interest rates. Our
credit review process incorporates both a top-down strategy, which focuses on
how macroeconomic forces shape various industry outlooks, and a bottom-up
strategy which relies on a combination of qualitative and quantitative factors.
Our qualitative assessment focuses on management strength, market position,
competitive environment, and financial flexibility. Our quantitative assessment
focuses on historical operating results, calculation of various credit ratios
and an expected future outlook. With the exception of the High Yield Fund, the
Fixed Income Funds generally invest in all categories of investment grade fixed
income securities, but emphasize the higher quality securities in this spectrum
(those with a credit rating of AA and above.) Our fixed income strategies
combine judgments about the absolute value of the fixed income universe and the
relative value of issuer sectors, maturity intervals, quality and coupon
segments and specific fixed income securities.     

                                                                               2

<PAGE>
 
Emerging Markets Equity Fund

Objective
The Fund seeks to maximize total U.S. dollar return, consisting of capital
appreciation and current income, while controlling risk.

Principal Strategies
The Fund intends to invest primarily in a portfolio of equity securities of
issuers located in at least three emerging markets countries, which may be
located in Asia, Europe, Latin America, Africa or the Middle East. As these
markets change and other countries' markets develop, the Fund expects the
countries in which it invests to change. The Fund is a non-diversified
portfolio.
    
All selection decisions are undertaken relative to the Brinson Emerging Markets
Normal Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its portfolio.     

Normally, the Fund invests at least 65% of its assets in the equity securities
of issuers in emerging markets or securities on which the return is derived from
the equity securities of issuers in emerging markets, such as equity swap
contracts and equity index swap contracts.

Up to 35% of the Fund's assets may be invested in higher-yielding, lower-rated
bonds. The Fund may invest in Eurodollar securities, which are fixed income
securities of a U.S. issuer or a foreign issuer that are issued outside of the
United States.

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
*  Foreign Country and Currency Risks
*  Geographic Concentration Risk
*  Market Risk
*  High Yield Risk
*  Diversification Risk
    
(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)      

Emerging Markets
The World Bank and other international agencies consider a country to be an
"emerging markets" country on the basis of such factors as trade initiatives,
per capita income and level of industrialization. Emerging market countries
generally include every nation in the world except the U.S., Canada, Japan,
Australia, New Zealand and most nations located in Western Europe.

Non-Diversified Portfolio
Invests most of its assets in a smaller number of issuers, resulting in more
potential volatility than diversified portfolios. Gains or losses on a single
security or issuer within the portfolio will, therefore, have a greater impact
on a fund's net asset value.

Lower-Rated Bonds
Bonds rated in the lower rating categories of Moody's and S&P, including
securities rated:
 . Ba or lower by Moody's or
 . BB or lower by S&P ("high yield securities").

Brinson Emerging Markets Normal Index
Constructed by Brinson Partners, this index is designed to minimize country
specific risk while providing regional exposure similar to the Morgan Stanley
Capital International Emerging Markets (Free) Index (MSCI-EMF), a market
capitalization weighted benchmark.


Fund Performance
No performance quoted as the Fund has not yet commenced operations.


3
<PAGE>
 
Emerging Markets Debt Fund 

Objective   
The Fund seeks to maximize total U.S. dollar return, consisting of capital
appreciation and current income, while controlling risk.

Principal Strategies
The Fund intends to invest primarily in a portfolio of debt securities of
issuers located in at least three emerging markets countries, which may be
located in Asia, Europe, Latin America, Africa or the Middle East. As these
markets change and other countries' markets develop, the Fund expects the
countries in which it invests to change. The Fund is a non-diversified
portfolio.
    
All selection decisions are undertaken relative to the J.P. Morgan Emerging
Markets Bond Index Plus, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its
portfolio.     

Normally, the Fund invests at least 65% of its total assets in debt securities
issued by:
* Governments
* Government-related entities (including participations in loans between
  governments and financial institutions)
* Corporations
* Entities organized to restructure outstanding debt of issuers in emerging
  markets

The Fund also invests in debt securities on which the return is derived
primarily from other emerging market instruments, such as interest rate swap
contracts and currency swap contracts. The Fund may invest in Eurodollar
securities, which are fixed income securities of a U.S. issuer or a foreign
issuer that are issued outside the United States.

A substantial amount of the assets of the Fund may be invested in higher-
yielding, lower-rated bonds.


Emerging Markets
The World Bank and other international agencies consider a country to be an
"emerging markets" country on the basis of such factors as trade initiatives,
per capita income and level of industrialization. Emerging market countries
generally include every nation in the world except the U.S., Canada, Japan,
Australia, New Zealand and most nations located in Western Europe.

Non-Diversified Portfolio
Invests most of its assets in a smaller number of issuers, resulting in more
potential volatility than diversified portfolios. Gains or losses on a single
security or issuer within the portfolio will, therefore, have a greater impact
on a fund's net asset value.

Lower-Rated Bonds
Bonds rated in the lower rating categories of Moody's and S&P, including
securities rated:
 . Ba or lower by Moody's or
 . BB or lower by S&P ("high yield securities").

J.P. Morgan Emerging Markets Bond Index Plus
Comprised of external-currency-denominated emerging markets debt, including
Brady Bonds, loans, Eurobonds and local market instruments.

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* High Yield Risk
* Interest Rate Risk
* Foreign Country and Currency Risks
* Geographic Concentration Risk
* Diversification Risk
    
(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)      


Fund Performance
No performance quoted as the Fund has not yet commenced operations.


                                                                               4
<PAGE>
 
Risk Considerations

All Fund investments are subject to risk and may decline in value. Each Fund's
exposure depends upon its specific investment practices. The amount and types of
risk vary depending on:
* The investment objective
* The Fund's ability to achieve its objective
* The markets in which the Fund invests
* The investments the Fund makes in those markets
* Prevailing economic conditions over the period of
  an investment

Please note that there are other circumstances that could adversely affect your
investment and potentially prevent a Fund from achieving its objective.

Counterparty Risk
The risk that when a Fund engages in repurchase, reverse repurchase, derivative,
when-issued, forward commitment, delayed settlement and securities lending
transactions with another party, it relies on the other party to consummate the
transaction and is subject to the risk of default by the other party. Failure of
the other party to complete the transaction may cause the Fund to incur a loss
or to miss an opportunity to obtain a price believed to be advantageous.

Credit Risk
The risk that the issuer of a security, or the counterparty to a contract, will
default or otherwise be unable to honor a financial obligation. Debt securities
rated below investment-grade are especially susceptible to this risk.

Derivative Risk
The risk that downward price changes in a security may result in a loss greater
than a Fund's investment in the security. This risk exists through the use of
certain securities or techniques that tend to magnify changes in an index or
market.

Diversification Risk
The risk that a non-diversified Fund will be more volatile than a diversified
Fund because it invests more of its assets in a smaller number of issuers. The
gains or losses on a single security or issuer will, therefore, have a greater
impact on the non-diversified Fund's net asset value.

Foreign Country and Currency Risks
The risk that prices of a Fund's investments in foreign securities may go down
because of unfavorable foreign government actions, political instability or the
absence of accurate information about foreign issuers. Also, a decline in the
value of foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar will reduce the value of
securities denominated in those currencies. Foreign securities are sometimes
less liquid and harder to value than securities of U.S. issuers. These risks are
more severe for securities of issuers in emerging market countries.
         
On January 1, 1999, the European Monetary Union (the "EMU") introduced a new
single currency, the Euro, which will replace the national currencies of
participating member nations. If a Fund holds investments in nations with
currencies replaced by the Euro, the investment process, including trading,
foreign exchange, payments, settlements, cash accounts, custody and accounting,
will be impacted. Although it is not possible to fully predict the impact of the
Euro on a Fund, the transition and the elimination of currency risk among
nations participating in the EMU may change the economic environment and
behavior of investors, particularly in European markets.

Geographic Concentration Risk
The risk that if a Fund has most of its investments in a single country or
region, its portfolio will be more susceptible to factors adversely affecting
issuers located in that country or region than would a more geographically
diversified portfolio of securities.

High Yield Risk
The risk that the issuer of bonds with ratings of BB (S&P) or Ba (Moody's) or
below will default or otherwise be unable to honor a financial obligation. These
securities are considered to be of poor standing and are predominantly
speculative with respect to the issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay
principal in accordance with the terms of the obligations and involve major risk
exposure. Bonds in this category may also be called "high yield bonds" or "junk
bonds."


5
<PAGE>
 
Interest Rate Risk
The risk that changing interest rates may adversely affect the value of an
investment.  With fixed-rate securities, an increase in prevailing interest
rates typically causes the value of a Fund's securities to fall, while a decline
in prevailing interest rates may produce an increase in the market value of the
securities. Changes in interest rates will affect the value of longer-term fixed
income securities more than shorter-term securities and lower quality securities
more than higher quality securities.

Market Risk
The risk that the market value of a Fund's investments will fluctuate as the
stock and bond markets fluctuate. Market risk may affect a single issuer,
industry or section of the economy or it may affect the market as a whole.

Prepayment Risk
The risk that issuers will prepay fixed rate obligations when interest rates
fall, forcing the Fund to re-invest in obligations with lower interest rates
than the original obligations.

Small Company Risk
The risk that investments in smaller companies may be more volatile than
investments in larger companies, as smaller companies generally experience
higher growth and failure rates. The trading volume of smaller company
securities is normally lower than that of larger companies. Changes in the
demand for the securities of smaller companies generally has a disproportionate
effect on their market price, tending to make prices rise more in response to
buying demand and fall more in response to selling pressure.

Both the Emerging Markets Debt Fund and the Emerging Markets Equity Fund are
subject to the above risks, with the exception of "Small Company Risk," which
only applies to the Emerging Markets Equity Fund.


                                                                               6
<PAGE>
 
Fees and Expenses

The tables below describe the fees and expenses that you 
may pay if you buy and hold shares of the Brinson 
Funds--Class N shares.

Shareholder Transaction Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)

Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases  None

Emerging Markets Equity Fund:
  Purchase/Redemption Transaction Fee    1.50%*

Emerging Markets Debt Fund:
  Purchase Transaction Fee               0.75%*

*These transaction charges are paid to the Funds and used by 
them to defray transaction costs associated with the purchase 
and sale of securities by the Funds.

Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that are deducted from Fund assets, expressed as a % of 
average net assets)

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                                                                              Amount            Total Fund
                                                                                              of Fee             Operating
                                                                                Gross         Waiver           Expenses (after
                                                                              Operating       and/or             fee waiver
                              Management       12b-1             Other        Expenses/1/     Expense          and/or expense
CLASS N                         Fees/1/      Expenses/2/       Expenses/1/    06/30/98     Reimbursement/1/   reimbursement)/1/
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                           <C>            <C>               <C>            <C>             <C>              <C>
Emerging Markets Equity          1.10%         0.25%             0.50%         1.85%          0.00%                 1.85%
Emerging Markets Debt            0.65%         0.25%             0.50%         1.40%          0.00%                 1.40%
</TABLE>

(1)  The Advisor has agreed irrevocably to permanently waive its fees and
reimburse certain expenses so that total operating expenses, with the exception
of 12b-1 expenses, for the Funds will not exceed 1.60% and 1.15%, respectively.
The fees and expenses noted for both Funds are based on estimates.

(2)  For the purposes of this Table, "12b-1 Expenses" is comprised of an asset-
based sales charge of up to 0.25% of average daily net assets of each Fund (see
"Distribution Arrangements" at page 16).     

Under the rules of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
("NASD"), the aggregate initial sales charges, deferred sales charges and asset-
based sales charges on shares of the Funds may not exceed 6.25% of total gross
sales, subject to certain exclusions. This 6.25% limitation is imposed on the
Fund rather than on a per shareholder basis. Therefore, long-term shareholders
of the Brinson Funds may pay more than the economic equivalent of the maximum
front-end sales charges permitted by the NASD. This amount also includes service
fees.

7
<PAGE>
 
Expense Example

This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the
Brinson Fund--Class N shares to the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The
example assumes that you invest $10,000 in a Fund for the time periods indicated
and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example also
assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's
operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs and the return on
your investment may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your costs
would be:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                1 year  3 years  5 years  10 years
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                             <C>     <C>      <C>      <C>
Emerging Markets Equity Fund      $487     $885   $1,308    $2,488
Emerging Markets Debt Fund        $216     $515   $  835    $1,742
</TABLE>

                                                                          8
<PAGE>
 
Investment Advisor
    
Brinson Partners Inc., an investment management firm primarily for institutional
accounts, is the investment advisor for the Brinson Funds, as well as for nine
other investment companies. Brinson Partners Inc. and its predecessor entities
have operated under the same investment philosophy and senior management for
over 18 years. Offices are located worldwide:     

Bahrain    Geneva      New York         Sydney
Basel      Hong Kong   Paris            Tokyo 
Chicago    London      Rio de Janeiro   Zurich 
Frankfurt  Melbourne   Singapore

As of December 31, 1998, Brinson Partners Inc. had total assets under management
of approximately $297 billion. Brinson Partners is a wholly-owned subsidiary of
UBS AG (formed by the merger of Union Bank of Switzerland and Swiss Bank
Corporation).

Advisory Fees

The following chart shows the investment advisory fees payable to Brinson
Partners Inc., before fee waivers, by each Fund during its last fiscal year.

Management Fees Paid
(expressed as a percentage of average net assets)

Emerging Markets Equity Fund  1.10%
Emerging Markets Debt Fund    0.65

The Advisor has irrevocably agreed to waive its fees and reimburse certain
expenses so that the total operating expenses, with the exception of 12b-1
expenses, of the Brinson Fund--Class N shares will not exceed the following
amounts for each of the respective Funds:

Emerging Markets Equity Fund  1.60%
Emerging Markets Debt Fund    1.15

Portfolio Management

Investment decisions for the Funds are made by an investment management team at
Brinson Partners. No member of the investment management team is primarily
responsible for making recommendations for portfolio purchases.

Year 2000 Issue

Some computer systems will be unable to recognize dates after December 31, 1999.
The Funds' securities trades, pricing and accounting services and other
operations could be adversely affected by the defects in computer systems
utilized by Brinson Partners, or the custodian and transfer agent. Brinson
Partners is taking steps that it believes are reasonably designed to identify
any potential problems with the computer systems it uses. The Funds' other
service providers have told Brinson Partners that they are taking comparable
steps. Brinson Partners does not believe that the Year 2000 issue will have a
material adverse effect on its business operations or results of operations.

The cost of addressing the Year 2000 issue, if substantial, could adversely
affect companies and governments that issue securities held by one or more
Funds. This is particularly true in emerging markets, which have been reported
not to be as prepared as domestic companies and markets for Year 2000. The Year
2000 issue also could cause improperly functioning trading systems in emerging
markets which could cause settlement and liquidity problems. At this point, the
Funds cannot predict the impact on their portfolios of Year 2000 problems in
such markets.

Portfolio Turnover
    
The Funds generally intend to purchase securities for long-term investment.
Portfolio turnover rates are not a factor in making buy and sell decisions.
Increased portfolio turnover may result in higher costs for brokerage
commissions, dealer mark-ups and other transaction costs. It may also result in
taxable capital gains. Higher costs associated with increased portfolio turnover
may offset gains in the Fund's performance.     

Brinson Partners Inc.
209 South LaSalle Street
Chicago, IL 60604-1295

9
<PAGE>
 
Prior Performance of Advisor
    
The following table sets forth the Advisor's composite performance data relating
to the historical performance of institutional private accounts managed by the
Advisor that have investment objectives, policies, strategies and risks
substantially similar to those of the various Funds. The data is provided to
illustrate the past performance of the Advisor in managing investment portfolios
which are substantially similar to each of the applicable Funds as measured
against specified market indices. This performance presentation includes certain
composites of Brinson Partners, Inc. and certain composites of UBS Brinson New
York (formerly UBS Asset Management New York). These two firms are now part of
one organization as a result of a business combination on June 30, 1998. The
portfolio management process and performance measurement are distinct for the
two entities through June 30, 1998. The performance data of each of the Brinson
Funds is also included in the table.

UBS Brinson (the Firm) has prepared and presented this report in compliance with
the Performance Presentation Standards of the Association for Investment
Management and Research (AIMR-PPS/TM/). AIMR has not been involved with the
preparation or review of this report. A list of all Firm composites is available
upon request. The Firm is defined as all portfolios managed and administered
from UBS Brinson's Chicago and New York offices. The effective date of Firm
compliance is January 1, 1993; certain terminated accounts are not included
prior to that date.

Composites consisting of more than one portfolio are asset weighted by 
beginning-of-period asset values. Investment results for both the Funds and the
composites are time-weighted performance calculations representing total return,
and are calculated in a manner consistent with the U.S. Securities and Exchange
Commission's ("SEC") method of calculating returns. Returns are calculated using
geometric linking of monthly returns. Composites are valued at least monthly,
taking into account cash flows. All realized and unrealized capital gains and
losses, as well as all dividends and interest from investments and cash
balances, are included. Investment transactions are accounted for on a trade
date basis with the exception of selected equity accounts. Prior to January
1996, settlement date accounting was used in these accounts, with trade date
accrual used subsequent to that date. Total returns exclude the impact of
advisor fees, custodial fees, and any other administrative expenses and the
impact of any income taxes an investor might have incurred as a result of
taxable ordinary income and capital gains realized by the account. Investment
returns will be reduced by fees and other expenses incurred. Investment advisory
fees are described in Part II of Form ADV. Upon request, we will furnish
information showing the effect an investment advisory fee would have had on
performance; due to the graduated nature of fees, as account size increases, the
annual percentage fee will decline.

Results include all actual fee-paying, discretionary client portfolios including
those clients no longer with the Firm. Portfolios are included in the composite
beginning with the first full month of performance to the present or to the
cessation of the client's relationship with the Firm. No alterations of
composites as presented here have occurred due to changes in personnel. Accounts
of all sizes are included in composite performance and no minimum account
relationship size was set for inclusion in the composites as the account size
does not impact portfolio management style. The composites are not subject to
certain expenses, investment limitations, diversification requirements and
restrictions to which the Funds are subject and which are imposed by the
Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "Act") and the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended. Had such expenses, limitations, requirements and restrictions
been applicable to the composites, the performance results would have been
adversely affected. The composites' performance presented does not represent the
historical performance of the Funds and should not be interpreted as indicative
of future performance of the Funds.     

                                                                              10
<PAGE>
 
Prior Performance of Advisor (cont.)
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION> 
                                                                    Annualized Returns
                                               One Year  Two Years  Three Years  Five Years  Ten Years
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                            <C>         <C>       <C>        <C>          <C>
Brinson Emerging Markets
 Equity Portfolio/1, 2/                          -24.71     -18.20       -10.19          NA         NA
MSCI Emerging Markets (Free) Index/3/            -25.34     -18.75       -11.21          NA         NA
Brinson Emerging Markets Normal Index/3/         -10.76     -13.05        -5.87          NA         NA
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio/1, 2/    -13.99       1.25        13.97          NA         NA
JP Morgan EMBI+/3/                               -14.35      -1.61        10.48          NA         NA
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

FOOTNOTES:
(1)  The Portfolio is a composite of funds substantially similar to the Fund to
which the Portfolio is being compared. Performance figures for the Advisor
composites are net of advisory fees and all expenses. Advisory fees are
determined by applying the highest fee schedule as of December 31, 1998.

Performance figures for the composites gross of fees are:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                   Annualized Returns
                                                One Year       Two Years     Three Years     Five Years     Ten Years
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                             <C>             <C>           <C>            <C>            <C>
Brinson Emerging Markets Equity Portfolio        -22.51         -16.00          -7.99            NA            NA
Brinson Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio          -12.76          -1.61          10.48            NA            NA
</TABLE>


(2)  For additional Fund disclosure, see Appendix A on page 17 of this
prospectus.

(3)  Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Emerging Markets (Free) Index
is a market capitalization weighted index which captures 60% of a country's
total capitalization while maintaining the overall risk structure of the market.
Stocks are included at their full market capitalization weight, and the index
reflects actual buyable opportunities for the non-domestic investor. Brinson
Emerging Markets Normal Index is an unmanaged index compiled by the Advisor that
is constructed to minimize specific country risk while providing regional
exposure similar to the MSCI Emerging Markets (Free) Index. J.P. Morgan Emerging
Markets Bond Index Plus (EMBI+) is comprised of external-currency-denominated
emerging markets debt, including Brady Bonds, loans, Eurobonds and local market
instruments.     

Pricing of Fund Shares

The Brinson Funds--Class N shares are bought and sold at net asset value (NAV),
which is calculated as of the close of business on each day that the New York
Stock Exchange (NYSE) is open (currently 4:00 p.m. Eastern time). A Fund's
securities are valued based on the last sale price or, where market quotations
are not readily available, are based on fair value as determined in good faith
by the Trust's board of trustees.

Foreign securities are valued at their closing prices on the exchange on which
they are traded. The resulting values are converted from the local currency into
U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. Foreign securities may trade in their
local markets on weekends or other days when a Fund does not price its shares.
Therefore, the NAV of Funds holding foreign securities may change on days when
shareholders will not be able to buy or sell their Fund shares.

How the Funds Calculate NAV
The NAV of a class of shares of a Fund is determined by dividing the value of
the securities and other assets, less liabilities, allocated to the class by the
number of outstanding shares of the class.

Purchase and redemption orders for shares received by the close of regular
trading (currently 4:00 p.m., Eastern time) are priced according to the NAV
determined on that day. Purchase and redemption orders received after the close
of trading are priced according to the next determined price per share. The
Funds reserve the right to change the time at which purchases and redemptions
are priced if the NYSE closes at a time other than 4:00 p.m. Eastern time or if
an emergency exists.

11
<PAGE>
 
          
Purchasing Shares

The minimum initial investment for Fund shares is $1,000,000. The minimum
initial investment for Individual Retirement Accounts (IRAs) is $2,000. The
Funds reserve the right to vary the investment minimums and impose minimums for
additional investments at any time. In addition, Brinson Partners may waive the
minimum initial investment requirement for any investor at its discretion.
Purchases may be made in one of the following ways:
    
If you have any questions or need further information, call 1-800-448-2430. 
     

                                 
By Telephone                     

Call 1-800-448-2430 to arrange for a telephone transaction.

If you want to make future transactions (e.g., purchase additional shares,
redeem or exchange shares) by telephone, you will need to elect this option
either on the initial application or subsequently in writing.
    
Complete and sign an application for the Brinson Funds Class N shares.      

By Mail
         
Make your check payable to "Brinson __________ Funds -- Class N."

If you are adding to your existing account, enclose the remittance portion of
your account statement and include the amount of investment, account name and
number.

Mail your application and/or check to:
The Brinson Funds
c/o Transfer Agent
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798

By Wire
If you are opening a new account, call the Funds at 1-800-448-2430 to arrange
for a wire transaction.

Then wire federal funds to:

The Chase Manhattan Bank
ABA#021000021
DDA#9102-783504
FBO: "Brinson ________ Funds -- Class N" and include your name and new account
number.
    
Complete and sign an application for Class N shares and mail immediately
following the initial wire transaction to:
The Brinson Funds
c/o Transfer Agent
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798     

If you are adding to your existing account, you do not need to call the Funds to
arrange for a wire transaction, but be sure to include your name and account
number.

Through Financial Institutions/Professionals
    
In some cases, the Funds have entered into one or more Sales Agreements with
brokers, dealers or financial institutions (banks and bank trust departments)
(each an "Authorized Dealer"). The Authorized Dealer, or intermediaries
designated by the Authorized Dealer (a "Sub-designee"), may accept purchase and
redemption orders that are in "good form" on behalf of the Funds. A Fund will be
deemed to have received a purchase or redemption order when the Authorized
Dealer or Sub-designee accepts the order. Such orders will be priced at the
Fund's net asset value next computed after such order is accepted. These
Authorized Dealers may charge the investor a transaction fee or other fee for
their services at the time of purchase. These fees would not be otherwise
charged if you purchase shares directly from the Funds. It is the responsibility
of such broker-dealers or service organizations to promptly forward purchase
orders with payments to the Funds.     

Telephone orders are accepted from broker-dealers or service organizations if
they have been previously approved by the Funds.

Brinson Partners, or its affiliates, may, from its own resources, compensate
broker-dealers or other financial intermediaries ("Service Providers") for
services performed with respect to a Fund's Class N shares. These services may
include marketing, shareholder servicing, recordkeeping and/or other services.
Payments made for any of these purposes may be made from Brinson Partners'
revenues, its profits or any other sources available. When these service
arrangements are in effect, they are generally made available to all qualified
Service Providers.

                                                                              12
<PAGE>
 
Purchasing Shares (cont.)

The Funds will not accept a check endorsed over by a third party. The Funds
reserve the right to reject any purchase order and to suspend the offering of
shares of the Brinson Funds. This includes purchase orders that, in the
reasonable belief of the Funds have been made by market timers or short-term
traders.

You will be subject to a 1.50% transaction charge in connection with your
purchase of shares of the Emerging Markets Equity Fund and a 0.75% transaction
charge in connection with your purchase of shares of the Emerging Markets Debt
Fund. Shares of the Funds are sold at a price which is equal to the NAV of such
shares, plus the transaction charge. The transaction charges do not apply to the
reinvestment of dividends or capital gain distributions. The transaction charges
are paid to the Funds and used by them to defray the transaction costs
associated with the purchase and sale of securities within the Funds.

Exchanging Shares

You can exchange your Class N shares for Class N shares of other Funds.
Exchanges will not be permitted between the Brinson Funds--Class N shares and
either the UBS Investment Funds Class of shares or the Brinson Funds--Class I
shares.

Under certain circumstances, the Funds may:
* Limit the number of exchanges between Funds
* Reject a telephone exchange order
* Modify or discontinue the exchange privilege upon 60 days' written notice
    
Exchanged Funds are subject to the minimum initial investment requirement. The
procedures that apply to redeeming shares also apply to exchanging shares. An
exchange is the sale of shares of one fund and purchase of shares of another and
could result in taxable gain or loss in a non-tax sheltered account.     

Account Options

The following account options are available. There are no charges for the
programs noted below and you may change or terminate these plans at any time by
written notice to the Funds. For information about participating in these
account options, call the transfer agent at 1-800-448-2430.

Automatic Investment Plan  
Through this option, money can be electronically deducted from your checking,
savings or bank money market accounts and invested in the Funds each month or
quarter.

Complete the Automatic Investment Plan Application, which is available upon
request by calling 1-800-448-2430, and mail it to the address indicated.

The initial $1,000,000 minimum investment still applies, however, subsequent
investments can be as little as $500.

The Funds may alter or terminate the Automatic Investment Plan at any time.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan
If you have a minimum of $1,000,000 in your account, you may direct the transfer
agent to make payments to you (or anyone you designate) monthly, quarterly or
semi-annually.

Withdrawals are drawn from share redemptions and must be a minimum of $500 per
payment. Under the Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP), you must elect to have
dividends and distributions automatically reinvested in additional Fund shares.

The Funds may terminate any SWP if the value of the account falls below $50,000
due to share redemptions or an exchange of shares for shares of another Class N
Fund.

Individual Retirement Account
You may open an IRA, a tax-deferred retirement account, with the Funds if you
are under age 70 1/2. The minimum purchase requirement for an IRA is $2,000.

13
<PAGE>
 
Redeeming Shares

Your shares will be received at the NAV next calculated after your order is
accepted by the Funds' transfer agent in good order. Your order will be
processed promptly and you will generally receive the proceeds within five
business days.

Please note that proceeds for redemption requests made shortly after a recent
purchase by check will be distributed once the check clears, which may take up
to 15 days.

The Funds reserve the right to pay redemptions "in kind" (i.e., payment in
securities rather than in cash) if the amount you are redeeming is large enough
to affect a Fund's operations (for example, if it represents more than $250,000
or 1% of the Fund's assets). In these cases, you might incur brokerage costs
converting the securities to cash.

You will be subject to a 1.50% transaction charge in connection with each
redemption of shares of the Emerging Markets Equity Fund. Redemption requests
for the Emerging Markets Equity Fund are paid at NAV less the transaction
charge. Redemptions which are made in kind with securities are not subject to
the transaction charge.

Minimum Balances

Due to the relatively high cost of maintaining smaller accounts, the Funds
reserve the right to involuntarily redeem shares in any Fund account for their
then current net asset value if at any time your total investment does not have
a value of at least $1,000 as a result of redemptions and not due to changes in
the asset value of the Fund.

You will be notified if your account drops below the required minimum and will
be allowed at least 60 days to bring the value of the account up to the minimum
before the redemption is processed. The Fund will promptly pay you the NAV for
such a redemption.

You may redeem some or all of your shares any day the NYSE is open for business
by doing one of the following (if you have any questions, call the transfer
agent at 1-800-448-2430).
                                                  
By Telephone                                      
If you have chosen the telephone redemption privilege on the initial application
or subsequently arranged in writing, you may call 1-800-448-2430 to redeem
shares.
    
By Mail
Shareholders may sell shares by making a written request to the Funds at:
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798     

Include signatures of all persons required to sign for transactions, exactly as
their name appears on the account application.

To protect your account from fraud, the Funds may require a signature guarantee
for certain redemptions (see "Signature Guarantees" below).

By Bank Wire
If you have chosen the wire redemption privilege on the initial application or
subsequently arranged in writing, you may request the Funds to wire your
proceeds to a predesignated bank account.

Call 1-800-448-2430.

Wire redemption requests must be received by the transfer agent by 4:00 p.m.
Eastern time for money to be wired the next business day.

Through Financial Institutionals/Professionals

Contact your financial institution or professional for more information.

Important note: Each institution or professional may have its own procedures and
requirements for selling shares and may charge fees.

                                                                              14
<PAGE>
 
Redeeming Shares (cont.)

Redemption requests should be accompanied by the Fund's name, your Fund account
number and the dollar amount or number of shares to be redeemed. The Fund will
mail a check to your account address or, if you have elected the wire redemption
privilege, the Fund will wire the proceeds to your bank.

Signature Guarantees

To protect your account from fraud, the Fund and its agent may require a
signature guarantee for certain redemptions to verify the identity of the person
who has authorized a redemption from your account. Please contact the Fund for
further information.

Telephone Transactions

You may give up some level of security by choosing to buy or sell shares by
telephone, rather than by mail. The Funds will employ reasonable procedures to
confirm that telephone instructions are genuine. If they do not employ these
procedures, the Funds or the transfer agent may be liable for any losses due to
unauthorized or fraudulent transactions. A written confirmation will be provided
for all purchase, exchange and redemption transactions initiated by telephone.

Transfer of Securities

Under certain circumstances, investors may be permitted to purchase Fund shares
by transferring securities to a separate Fund that meets the original Fund's
investment objective and policies. (Please see the Statement of Additional
Information for more information.)

Dividends and Distributions

Each Fund passes most of its net investment income along to investors in the
form of distributions. All shareholders of a Fund are entitled to a
proportionate share of the Fund's net income and realized capital gains on its
investments.

Net investment income for all of the Funds consists of all dividends and
interest received, less expenses (including fees payable to the Advisor and its
affiliates).

Dividends from net investment income are declared, and paid, by each Fund semi-
annually -- in June and December. In December, the Funds will distribute
substantially all of their net long-term capital gains and any undistributed net
short-term capital gains realized during the one year period commencing November
1 (or date of the creation of the Fund, if later) and ending October 31. At the
same time, the Funds will distribute all of their net investment income earned
through the end of December and not previously distributed as ordinary (not
capital) income.

Dividends and other distributions paid on each class of shares of a Fund are
calculated at the same time and in the same manner. Dividends on each class
might be affected differently by the allocation of other class-specific
expenses.
    
Unless you notify the transfer agent in writing that you elect to receive your
income dividends and capital gain distributions in cash, all will be reinvested
automatically in additional Fund shares of the same class of a Fund.
Distribution options may be changed at any time by requesting a change in
writing. Dividends are reinvested on the reinvestment date at the net asset
value determined at the close of business on that date. Please note that shares
purchased shortly before the record date for a dividend or distribution may have
the effect of returning capital, although such dividends and distributions are
subject to taxes.     

15        
<PAGE>
 
Tax Considerations

Following is a brief discussion of the general tax treatment of various
distributions from the Funds. It is not an exhaustive discussion, and your
particular tax status may be different. We encourage you to consult with your
own tax advisor about federal, state and local tax considerations.
    
In general, distributions from a Fund are taxable to you as either ordinary
income or capital gains. This is true whether you invest your distributions in
additional shares of a Fund or receive them in cash. Any capital gains
distributed by a Fund are taxable to you as long-term capital gains no matter
how long you have owned your shares. The rate of tax will generally depend on
how long the Fund held the securities on which it realized the gains.     

It is expected that distributions from the Emerging Markets Debt Fund will
consist primarily of ordinary income as a result of its investment objective and
strategies.

When you sell or exchange your shares of a Fund, you may have a capital gain or
loss. The tax rate on any gain from the sale or exchange of your shares depends
on how long you have held your shares.
    
Fund distributions and gains from the sale or exchange of your shares will
generally be subject to state and local income tax. Ex-U.S. investors may be
subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax.

If any of the following situation apply to you, the Funds will be required by
the IRS to withold 31% of your taxable distributions:
* you do not provide your correct taxpayer identification number, or
* you do not certify that such number is correct, or
* if the IRS instructs the Fund to do so

Shareholders will be advised annually of the source and the tax status of all
Fund distributions for federal income tax purposes.

Buying a Dividend

If you buy shares in a Stock Fund just before the Fund makes any distribution,
or if you buy shares in any Bond Fund just prior to a capital gain distribution,
you will receive some of the purchase price back in the form of a taxable
distribution.

Distribution Arrangements

The Funds have adopted a distribution plan under rule 12b-1 of the Investment
Company Act of 1940 to compensate Brinson Partners, Funds Distributor Inc.
and others for distributing and promoting sales of the Brinson Funds -- Class N
shares. Annual fees paid under the plan may not exceed 0.25% of the average
daily net assets of each Fund's Class N shares. Because these distribution and
service fees are paid out of the assets of each share class' 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.

Multiple Classes

The Funds are a series of The Brinson Funds, a Delaware business trust, and
currently offer three classes of shares: the Brinson Funds -- Class I, Brinson
Funds Class N and UBS Investment Funds Class of shares.

                                                                        16
<PAGE>
 
Appendix A

<TABLE>
<CAPTION> 
                                                                       
                                                                      As of December 31, 1998
Brinson Partners, Inc.                      Number of Accounts       Assets        Percentage of      Highest Annual
Composite Name                                per Composite       ($ millions)      Firm Assets        Fee on Assets
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                         <C>                    <C>              <C>                <C>            
Emerging Markets Equity Portfolio                   1                 401              0.4                1.10%
Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio                     1                 398              0.4                0.65%
</TABLE> 
 
The composites presented in this report are single entity composites or the
assets of a single client. As such, internal dispersion for all periods is zero
and is not presented in this report. AIMR-PPS (TM) states that pooled funds,
including unit trusts (or collective funds) may be treated as separate
composites. As such, this report presents the composite performance results of
collective funds only and does not include separately managed accounts.
Composites for separately managed accounts are available upon request.
 
Historical Annual Returns (as of December 31 each year)

<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
Name                                            1998       1997       1996         1995          1994
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                            <C>         <C>       <C>           <C>            <C>
Emerging Markets Equity Portfolio              -23.74%    -11.81%     9.12%        -6.34%*         --
Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio                -13.47%     19.35%    45.00%        17.63%*         --
</TABLE>
*Represents partial-year performance.  Returns are not annualized.     

17
<PAGE>
 
For More Information

More information on the Brinson Funds is available free upon request:

Shareholder Reports
Additional information about the Funds' investments is available in the Funds'
annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders. In the Funds' annual report, you
will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that
significantly affected each Fund's performance during its last fiscal year.

Statement Of Additional Information (SAI)
The SAI provides more details about each Fund and its policies. The SAI is on
file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and is incorporated by
reference into (is legally considered part of) this prospectus.


TO OBTAIN INFORMATION:

By Telephone
Call 1-800-448-2430

By Mail
The Brinson Funds
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798

By Email
[email protected]

On The Internet
Text-only versions of the prospectus and other documents pertaining to the Funds
can be viewed online or downloaded from:

   SEC: http://www.sec.gov

   Brinson Partners: http://www.ubsbrinson.com


Information about the Funds (including the SAI) can also be reviewed and copied
at the SEC's public reference room in Washington, DC (phone 1-800-SEC-0330). Or,
you can obtain copies of this information by sending a request, along with a
duplicating fee, to the SEC's Public Reference Section, Washington, DC 20549-
6009.

The Funds are series of The Brinson Funds.
Registration number: 811-6637


                                                                              18
<PAGE>
 
                                                                     [UBS LOGO]

                                                   Investment Funds


                                                         Prospectus
                                                            May 3, 1999


                                                   Emerging Markets Equity Fund
                                                   Emerging Markets Debt Fund

                                       As with any mutual fund, the Securities
                                       and Exchange Commission (SEC) has not
                                       approved or disapproved of these
                                       securities or determined whether this
                                       prospectus is adequate or complete. Any
                                       representation to the contrary is a
                                       criminal offense.

[UBS LOGO]

     Investment Funds
P.O. Box 2798.Boston, MA 02208-2798
Tel: 1-800-794-7753



<PAGE>
 
Table of Contents

The Brinson Investment Process                       2
    
Overview of The Funds     
     Emerging Markets Equity Fund                    3
     Emerging Markets Debt Fund                      4

Risk Considerations                                  5

Fees and Expenses                                    7

Investment Advisor                                   9

Prior Performance of Advisor                        10

Pricing of Fund Shares                              11

Purchasing Shares                                   12

Redeeming Shares                                    14

Dividends and Distributions                         15

Tax Considerations                                  16

Distribution Agreements                             16

Appendix A                                          17

For More Information                                18


1
<PAGE>
 
Overview of The Funds      
    
The investment objective of each Fund is "fundamental" and may be changed only
with shareholder approval. Unless otherwise stated, each Fund's investment
policies are not fundamental and may be changed by the Funds' Trustees without a
shareholder vote. There can be no assurance that the Funds will be able to
attain their objectives.

Each Fund's primary investment practices and strategies are discussed in this
prospectus. Other practices, and their related risks, are described in the
Statement of Additional Information (SAI).

Each Fund's principal risks and strategies are provided within the Fund
descriptions that follow. Principal and secondary risks are discussed in detail
under "Risk Considerations" on page 5.     

The Brinson Funds strongly discourages market timers and short-term traders from
investing in the Funds. Shares of The Brinson Funds are not bank deposits and
are not insured or guaranteed by the FDIC or any other government agency. The
value of your investment in a Fund will fluctuate, which means that you may lose
money.


A Look At The Brinson Investment Process
    
At Brinson Partners, we employ a global asset allocation strategy, actively
diversifying investments within and across all major asset classes. Our
investment decisions are based on fundamental research, internally developed
valuation systems and seasoned judgement. Our philosophy is that the
determination of fundamental investment value within the context of a globally
integrated economy is the focus of all investment decisions. World economies and
financial markets are interactive. Thus, investment management, both within and
across global stock and bond markets, must be based upon comprehensive knowledge
and analyses of integrated investment fundamentals.

Our investment style has a single focus - investment fundamentals determine and
describe future cash flows that, for us, define investment value. It is our
belief that periodically there are important exploitable discrepancies between
market price and investment value. The price/value discrepancies then become the
building blocks for portfolio construction. Portfolio structure is focused on
both risk and return considerations in the context of full long-term investment
cycles.

Another aspect of Brinson Partners' approach is the management of a portfolio of
securities against a selected benchmark. If we are indifferent among markets, we
tend toward the normal weight, as determined by the proportion of each market in
the benchmark. Decisions to deviate from the normal mix of assets are a blend of
rigorous quantitative analysis, an understanding of the fundamental
relationships among global markets and the expertise of our investment
professionals. All security selection decisions for a Fund are made in relation
to the benchmark, as described in each Fund's principal strategy section. The
benchmark for each Fund is an index consisting of securities that are
representative of that Fund's investments. From time to time, we may substitute
securities from an equivalent index that we believe more accurately reflects
changes in our expectations for various markets.

Equity Selections
Our equity portfolio construction process focuses on the four layers of equity
management that best explain portfolio performance: market sensitivity, common
factor exposures, industry weightings and individual stock selection. Securities
are chosen from an extensive list of companies in all major markets and
industries. Stock selection is based on fundamental analysis, often
incorporating quantitative models. With the exception of U.S. Small
Capitalization Growth Fund, the security selection decision seeks out medium-to-
larger capitalization issues that are attractively priced relative to underlying
fundamental value. Research focuses on the ability of individual companies to
generate profits. We also analyze industry competitive strategy, structure and
global integration. We visit management to understand company goals and their
competitive strategies.

Fixed Income Selections
We use an internally developed valuation model for our Fixed Income portfolios,
which quantifies our return expectations for all of the bond markets. Inputs to
this model include forecasts of inflation, risk premiums and interest rates. Our
credit review process incorporates both a top-down strategy, which focuses on
how macroeconomic forces shape various industry outlooks, and a bottom-up
strategy which relies on a combination of qualitative and quantitative factors.
Our qualitative assessment focuses on management strength, market position,
competitive environment, and financial flexibility. Our quantitative assessment
focuses on historical operating results, calculation of various credit ratios
and an expected future outlook. With the exception of the High Yield Fund, the
Fixed Income Funds generally invest in all categories of investment grade fixed
income securities, but emphasize the higher quality securities in this spectrum
(those with a credit rating of AA and above.) Our fixed income strategies
combine judgments about the absolute value of the fixed income universe and the
relative value of issuer sectors, maturity intervals, quality and coupon
segments and specific fixed income securities.     
         
                                                                               2
<PAGE>
 
Emerging Markets Equity Fund

Objective
The Fund seeks to maximize total U.S. dollar return, consisting of capital
appreciation and current income, while controlling risk.

Principal Strategies
The Fund intends to invest primarily in a portfolio of equity securities of
issuers located in at least three emerging markets countries, which may be
located in Asia, Europe, Latin America, Africa or the Middle East. As these
markets change and other countries' markets develop, the Fund expects the
countries in which it invests to change. The Fund is a non-diversified
portfolio.
    
All selection decisions are undertaken relative to the Brinson Emerging Markets
Normal Index, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its portfolio.     

Normally, the Fund invests at least 65% of its assets in the equity securities
of issuers in emerging markets or securities on which the return is derived from
the equity securities of issuers in emerging markets, such as equity swap
contracts and equity index swap contracts.

Up to 35% of the Fund's assets may be invested in higher-yielding, lower-rated
bonds. The Fund may invest in Eurodollar securities, which are fixed income
securities of a U.S. issuer or a foreign issuer that are issued outside of the
United States.

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
*  Foreign Country and Currency Risks
*  Geographic Concentration Risk
*  Market Risk
*  High Yield Risk
*  Diversification Risk
    
(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)     

Emerging Markets
The World Bank and other international agencies consider a country to be an
"emerging markets" country on the basis of such factors as trade initiatives,
per capita income and level of industrialization. Emerging market countries
generally include every nation in the world except the U.S., Canada, Japan,
Australia, New Zealand and most nations located in Western Europe.

Non-Diversified Portfolio
Invests most of its assets in a smaller number of issuers, resulting in more
potential volatility than diversified portfolios. Gains or losses on a single
security or issuer within the portfolio will, therefore, have a greater impact
on a fund's net asset value.

Lower-Rated Bonds
Bonds rated in the lower rating categories of Moody's and S&P, including
securities rated:
 . Ba or lower by Moody's or
 . BB or lower by S&P ("high yield securities").    

Brinson Emerging Markets Normal Index
Constructed by Brinson Partners, this index is designed to minimize country
specific risk while providing regional exposure similar to the Morgan Stanley
Capital International Emerging Markets (Free) Index (MSCI-EMF), a market
capitalization weighted benchmark.


Fund Performance
No performance quoted as the Fund has not yet commenced operations.


3
<PAGE>
 
Emerging Markets Debt Fund

Objective
The Fund seeks to maximize total U.S. dollar return, consisting of capital
appreciation and current income, while controlling risk.

Principal Strategies
The Fund intends to invest primarily in a portfolio of debt securities of
issuers located in at least three emerging markets countries, which may be
located in Asia, Europe, Latin America, Africa or the Middle East. As these
markets change and other countries' markets develop, the Fund expects the
countries in which it invests to change. The Fund is a non-diversified
portfolio.
    
All selection decisions are undertaken relative to the J.P. Morgan Emerging
Markets Bond Index Plus, the benchmark against which the Fund measures its
portfolio.     

Normally, the Fund invests at least 65% of its total assets in debt securities
issued by:
* Governments
* Government-related entities (including participations in loans between
  governments and financial institutions)
* Corporations
* Entities organized to restructure outstanding debt of issuers in emerging
  markets

The Fund also invests in debt securities on which the return is derived
primarily from other emerging market instruments, such as interest rate swap
contracts and currency swap contracts. The Fund may invest in Eurodollar
securities, which are fixed income securities of a U.S. issuer or a foreign
issuer that are issued outside the United States.

A substantial amount of the assets of the Fund may be invested in higher-
yielding, lower-rated bonds.

The Fund's Principal Risks Include:
* High Yield Risk
* Interest Rate Risk
* Foreign Country and Currency Risks
* Geographic Concentration Risk
* Diversification Risk
    
(Additional information is included in the "Risk Considerations" section.)
     
Emerging Markets
The World Bank and other international agencies consider a country to be an
"emerging markets" country on the basis of such factors as trade initiatives,
per capita income and level of industrialization. Emerging market countries
generally include every nation in the world except the U.S., Canada, Japan,
Australia, New Zealand and most nations located in Western Europe.

Non-Diversified Portfolio
Invests most of its assets in a smaller number of issuers, resulting in more
potential volatility than diversified portfolios. Gains or losses on a single
security or issuer within the portfolio will, therefore, have a greater impact
on a fund's net asset value.

Lower-Rated Bonds
Bonds rated in the lower rating categories of Moody's and S&P, including
securities rated:
 . Ba or lower by Moody's or
 . BB or lower by S&P ("yield securities").

J.P. Morgan Emerging Markets Bond Index Plus
Comprised of external-currency-denominated emerging markets debt, including
Brady Bonds, loans, Eurobonds and local market instruments.


Fund Performance
There is no performance quoted as the Fund has not yet commenced operations.

                                                                               4

<PAGE>
 
Risk Considerations

All Fund investments are subject to risk and may decline in value. Each Fund's
exposure depends upon its specific investment practices.  The amount and types
of risk vary depending on:
* The investment objective
* The Fund's ability to achieve its objective
* The markets in which the Fund invests
* The investments the Fund makes in those markets
* Prevailing economic conditions over the period of an investment

Please note that there are other circumstances that could adversely affect your
investment and potentially prevent a Fund from achieving its objective.

Counterparty Risk
The risk that when a Fund engages in repurchase, reverse repurchase, derivative,
when-issued, forward commitment, delayed settlement and securities lending
transactions with another party, it relies on the other party to consummate the
transaction and is subject to the risk of default by the other party. Failure of
the other party to complete the transaction may cause the Fund to incur a loss
or to miss an opportunity to obtain a price believed to be advantageous.

Credit Risk
The risk that the issuer of a security, or the counterparty to a contract, will
default or otherwise be unable to honor a financial obligation. Debt securities
rated below investment-grade are especially susceptible to this risk.
    
Derivative Risk
The risk that downward price changes in a security may result in a loss greater
than a Fund's investment in the security. This risk exists through the use of
certain securities or techniques that tend to magnify changes in an index or
market.     

Diversification Risk
The risk that a non-diversified Fund will be more volatile than a diversified
Fund because it invests its assets in a smaller number of issuers. The gains or
losses on a single security or issuer will, therefore, have a greater impact on
the non-diversified Fund's net asset value.

Foreign Country and Currency Risks
The risk that prices of a Fund's investments in foreign securities may go down
because of unfavorable foreign government actions, political instability or the
absence of accurate information about foreign issuers. Also, a decline in the
value of foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar will reduce the value of
securities denominated in those currencies. Foreign securities are sometimes
less liquid and harder to value than securities of U.S. issuers. These risks are
more severe for securities of issuers in emerging market countries.

On January 1, 1999, the European Monetary Union (the "EMU") introduced a new
single currency, the Euro, which will replace the national currencies of
participating member nations. If a Fund holds investments in nations with
currencies replaced by the Euro, the investment process, including trading,
foreign exchange, payments, settlements, cash accounts, custody and accounting,
will be impacted. Although it is not possible to fully predict the impact of the
Euro on a Fund, the transition and the elimination of currency risk among
nations participating in the EMU may change the economic environment and
behavior of investors, particularly in European markets.

Geographic Concentration Risk
The risk that if a Fund has most of its investments in a single country or
region, its portfolio will be more susceptible to factors adversely affecting
issuers located in that country or region than would a more geographically
diverse portfolio of securities.

High Yield Risk
The risk that bonds with ratings of BB (S&P) or Ba (Moody's) or below are
subject to greater credit risk than investment grade bonds. These securities are
considered to be of poor standing and are predominantly speculative with respect
to the issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with
the terms of the obligations and involve major risk exposure. Also called "high
yield bonds" or "junk bonds."

Interest Rate Risk
The risk that changing interest rates may adversely affect the value of an
investment. With fixed-rate securities, an increase in prevailing interest rates
typically causes the value of a Fund's securities to fall, while a decline in
prevailing interest rates may produce an increase in the market value of the
securities. Changes in interest rates will affect the value of longer-term fixed
income securities more than shorter-term securities and lower quality securities
more than higher quality securities.


                                                                               5
<PAGE>
 
         
Market Risk
The risk that the market value of a Fund's investments will fluctuate as the
stock and bond markets fluctuate. Market risk may affect a single issuer,
industry or section of the economy or it may affect the market as a whole.

Prepayment Risk
The risk that issuers will prepay fixed rate obligations when interest rates
fall, forcing the Fund to re-invest in obligations with lower interest rates
than the original obligations.

Small Company Risk
The risk that investments in smaller companies may be more volatile than
investments in larger companies, as smaller companies generally experience
higher growth and failure rates. The trading volume of smaller company
securities is normally lower than that of larger companies. Changes in the
demand for the securities of smaller companies generally has a disproportionate
effect on their market price, tending to make prices rise more in response to
buying demand and fall more in response to selling pressure.

Both the Emerging Markets Debt Fund and the Emerging Markets Equity Fund are
subject to the above risks, with the exception of "Small Company Risk," which
only applies to the Emerging Markets Equity Fund.


                                                                               6
<PAGE>
 
Fees and Expenses

The tables below describe the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and
hold shares of the UBS Investment Funds Class of shares.

Shareholder Transaction Fees
(fees paid directly from your investment)

Sales Charge (Load) Imposed on Purchases    None

Emerging Markets Equity Fund:
  Purchase/Redemption Transaction Fee      1.50%*

Emerging Markets Debt Fund:
  Purchase Transaction Fee                 0.75%*

*These transaction charges are paid to the Funds and used by them to defray
transaction costs associated with the purchase and sale of securities by the
Funds.

Annual Fund Operating Expenses
(expenses that are deducted from Fund assets, expressed as a % of average net 
assets)

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                              Total Fund
                                                                                            Amount             Operating
                                                                            Gross       of Fee Waiver          Expenses
                                                                          Operating         and/or         (after fee waiver
                               Management      12b-1         Other         Expenses         Expense         and/or expense
UBS Investment Funds Class       Fees/1/     Expenses/2/   Expenses/1/   06/30/98/1/    Reimbursement/1/   reimbursement)/1/
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                           <C>            <C>           <C>           <C>            <C>                <C>
Emerging Markets Equity           1.10%         0.85%        0.50%         2.45%              0.00%              2.45%
Emerging Markets Debt             0.65%         0.75%        0.50%         1.90%              0.00%              1.90%
</TABLE>

(1) The Advisor has agreed irrevocably to permanently waive its fees and
reimburse certain expenses so that total operating expenses, with the exception
of 12b-1 expenses, for the Funds will not exceed 1.60% and 1.15%, respectively.
The fees and expenses noted for both Funds are based on estimates.

(2) For the purposes of this Table, "12b-1 Expenses" is comprised of an asset-
based charge of up to 0.65% of average daily net assets and a service fee of
0.25% of average daily net assets for the UBS Investment Funds class of shares
for each Fund (see "Distribution Arrangements" at page 16).  The Funds and the
Underwriter have agreed to limit aggregate distribution fees so as not to exceed
0.85% and 0.75% of the average daily net assets of the Emerging Markets Equity
Fund and Emerging Markets Debt Fund, respectively.

Under the rules of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
("NASD"), the aggregate initial sales charges, deferred sales charges and asset-
based sales charges on shares of the Funds may not exceed 6.25% of total gross
sales, subject to certain exclusions.  This 6.25% limitation is imposed on the
Fund rather than on a per shareholder basis.  Therefore, long-term shareholders
of the UBS Investment Funds class of shares may pay more than the economic
equivalent of the maximum front-end sales charges permitted by the NASD.  This
amount also includes service fees.     

7
<PAGE>
 
Expense Example

This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the UBS
Investment Funds Class of shares to the cost of investing in other mutual funds.
The example assumes that you invest $10,000 in a Fund for the time periods
indicated and then redeem all of your shares at the end of those periods. The
example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the
Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs and the
return on your investment may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions
your costs would be:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                   1 year  3 years  5 years   10 years
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                <C>     <C>      <C>       <C>
Emerging Markets Equity Fund         $546   $1,061   $1,604    $3,084
Emerging Markets Debt Fund           $266   $  667   $1,094    $2,280
</TABLE>

                                                                               8
<PAGE>
 
Investment Advisor
    
Brinson Partners Inc., an investment management firm primarily for institutional
accounts, is the investment advisor for the Brinson Funds, as well as for nine
other investment companies. Brinson Partners Inc. and its predecessor entities
have operated under the same investment philosophy and senior management for
over 18 years. Offices are located worldwide:     

Bahrain     Geneva      New York         Sydney
Basel       Hong Kong   Paris            Tokyo 
Chicago     London      Rio de Janeiro   Zurich 
Frankfurt   Melbourne   Singapore

As of December 31, 1998, Brinson Partners Inc. had total assets under management
of approximately $297 billion. Brinson Partners is a wholly-owned subsidiary of
UBS AG (formed by the merger of Union Bank of Switzerland and Swiss Bank
Corporation).

Advisory Fees

The following chart shows the investment advisory fees payable to Brinson
Partners Inc., before fee waivers, by each Fund during its last fiscal year.

Management Fees Paid
(expressed as a percentage of average net assets)

Emerging Markets Equity Fund    1.10%
Emerging Markets Debt Fund      0.65

The Advisor has irrevocably agreed to waive its fees and reimburse certain
expenses so that the total operating expenses, with the exception of 12b-1
expenses, of the UBS Investment Funds Class of shares will not exceed the
following amounts for each of the respective Funds:

Emerging Markets Equity Fund    1.60%
Emerging Markets Debt Fund      1.15

Portfolio Management

Investment decisions for the Funds are made by an investment management team at
Brinson Partners. No member of the investment management team is primarily
responsible for making recommendations for portfolio purchases.

Year 2000 Issue

Some computer systems will be unable to recognize dates after December 31, 1999.
The Funds' securities trades, pricing and accounting services and other
operations could be adversely affected by the defects in computer systems
utilized by Brinson Partners, or the custodian and transfer agent. Brinson
Partners is taking steps that it believes are reasonably designed to identify
any potential problems with the computer systems it uses. The Funds' other
service providers have told Brinson Partners that they are taking comparable
steps. Brinson Partners does not believe that the Year 2000 issue will have a
material adverse effect on its business operations or results of operations.

The cost of addressing the Year 2000 issue, if substantial, could adversely
affect companies and governments that issue securities held by one or more
Funds. This is particularly true in emerging markets, which have been reported
not to be as prepared as domestic companies and markets for Year 2000. The Year
2000 issue also could cause improperly functioning trading systems in emerging
markets which could cause settlement and liquidity problems. At this point, the
Funds cannot predict the impact on their portfolios of Year 2000 problems in
such markets.

Portfolio Turnover
    
The Funds generally intend to purchase securities for long-term investment.
Portfolio turnover rates are not a factor in making buy and sell decisions.
Increased portfolio turnover may result in higher costs for brokerage
commissions, dealer mark-ups and other transaction costs. It may also result in
taxable capital gains. Higher costs associated with increased portfolio turnover
may offset gains in the Fund's performance.     

Brinson Partners, Inc.
209 South LaSalle St.
Chicago, Il 60604

9
<PAGE>
 
Prior Performance of Advisor
    
The following table sets forth the Advisor's composite performance data relating
to the historical performance of institutional private accounts managed by the
Advisor that have investment objectives, policies, strategies and risks
substantially similar to those of the various Funds. The data is provided to
illustrate the past performance of the Advisor in managing investment portfolios
which are substantially similar to each of the applicable Funds as measured
against specified market indices. This performance presentation includes certain
composites of Brinson Partners, Inc. and certain composites of UBS Brinson New
York (formerly UBS Asset Management New York). These two firms are now part of
one organization as a result of a business combination on June 30, 1998. The
portfolio management process and performance measurement are distinct for the
two entities through June 30, 1998. The performance data of each of the Brinson
Funds is also included in the table.

UBS Brinson (the Firm) has prepared and presented this report in compliance with
the Performance Presentation Standards of the Association for Investment
Management and Research (AIMR-PPS/TM/).  AIMR has not been involved with the
preparation or review of this report.  A list of all Firm composites is
available upon request.  The Firm is defined as all portfolios managed and
administered from UBS Brinson's Chicago and New York offices.  The effective
date of Firm compliance is January 1, 1993; certain terminated accounts are not
included prior to that date.

Composites consisting of more than one portfolio are asset weighted by
beginning-of-period asset values. Investment results for both the Funds and the
composites are time-weighted performance calculations representing total return,
and are calculated in a manner consistent with the U.S. Securities and Exchange
Commission's ("SEC") method of calculating returns.  Returns are calculated
using geometric linking of monthly returns.  Composites are valued at least
monthly, taking into account cash flows.  All realized and unrealized capital
gains and losses, as well as all dividends and interest from investments and
cash balances, are included. Investment transactions are accounted for on a
trade date basis with the exception of selected equity accounts.  Prior to
January 1996, settlement date accounting was used in these accounts, with trade
date accrual used subsequent to that date.  Total returns exclude the impact of
advisor fees, custodial fees, and any other administrative expenses and the
impact of any income taxes an investor might have incurred as a result of
taxable ordinary income and capital gains realized by the account.  Investment
returns will be reduced by fees and other expenses incurred.  Investment
advisory fees are described in Part II of Form ADV. Upon request, we will
furnish information showing the effect an investment advisory fee would have had
on performance; due to the graduated nature of fees, as account size increases,
the annual percentage fee will decline.

Results include all actual fee-paying, discretionary client portfolios including
those clients no longer with the Firm. Portfolios are included in the composite
beginning with the first full month of performance to the present or to the
cessation of the client's relationship with the Firm.  No alterations of
composites as presented here have occurred due to changes in personnel.
Accounts of all sizes are included in composite performance and no minimum
account relationship size was set for inclusion in the composites as the account
size does not impact portfolio management style. The composites are not subject
to certain expenses, investment limitations, diversification requirements and
restrictions to which the Funds are subject and which are imposed by the
Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "Act") and the Internal Revenue Code of
1986, as amended. Had such expenses, limitations, requirements and restrictions
been applicable to the composites, the performance results would have been
adversely affected. The composites' performance presented does not represent the
historical performance of the Funds and should not be interpreted as indicative
of future performance of the Funds.     

                                                                              10
<PAGE>
 
Prior Performance of Advisor (cont.)
 
<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                                                        Annualized Returns
                                                 One Year    Two Years    Three Years    Five Years    Ten Years
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                              <C>         <C>          <C>            <C>           <C>
Brinson Emerging Markets
   Equity Portfolio/1, 2/                         -24.71       -18.20        -10.19          NA            NA
MSCI Emerging Markets (Free) Index/3/             -25.34       -18.75        -11.21          NA            NA
Brinson Emerging Markets Normal Index/3/          -10.76       -13.05         -5.87          NA            NA
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Brinson Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio/1, 2/     -13.99         1.25         13.97          NA            NA
JP Morgan EMBI+/3/                                -14.35        -1.61         10.48          NA            NA
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

FOOTNOTES:

(1) The Portfolio is a composite of funds substantially similar to the Fund to
which the Portfolio is being compared. Performance figures for the Advisor
composites are net of advisory fees and all expenses. Advisory fees are
determined by applying the highest fee schedule as of December 31, 1998.
Performance figures for the composites gross of fees are:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                        Annualized Returns
                                                 One Year    Two Years    Three Years    Five Years    Ten Years
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                              <C>         <C>          <C>            <C>           <C>
Emerging Markets Equity Portfolio                 -22.51       -16.00        -7.99           NA            NA
Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio                   -12.76        -1.61        10.48           NA            NA
</TABLE>

(2) For additional Fund disclosure, see Appendix A on page 17 of this
prospectus.

(3) Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) Emerging Markets (Free) Index is
a market capitalization weighted index which captures 60% of a country's total
capitalization while maintaining the overall risk structure of the market.
Stocks are included at their full market capitalization weight, and the index
reflects actual buyable opportunities for the non-domestic investor. Brinson
Emerging Markets Normal Index is an unmanaged index compiled by the Advisor that
is constructed to minimize specific country risk while providing regional
exposure similar to the MSCI Emerging Markets (Free) Index. J.P. Morgan Emerging
Markets Bond Index Plus (EMBI+) is comprised of external-currency-denominated
emerging markets debt, including Brady Bonds, loans, Eurobonds and local market
instruments.     


Pricing of Fund Shares

The UBS Investment Funds Class of shares are bought and sold at net asset value
(NAV), which is calculated as of the close of business on each day that the New
York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is open (currently 4:00 p.m. Eastern time). A Fund's
securities are valued based on the last sale price or, where market quotations
are not readily available, are based on fair value as determined in good faith
by the Trust's board of trustees.

Foreign securities are valued at their closing prices on the exchange on which
they are traded. The resulting values are converted from the local currency into
U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. Foreign securities may trade in their
local markets on weekends or other days when a Fund does not price its shares.
Therefore, the NAV of Funds holding foreign securities may change on days when
shareholders will not be able to buy or sell their Fund shares.

How the Funds Calculate NAV
The NAV of a class of shares of a Fund is determined by dividing the value of
the securities and other assets, less liabilities, allocated to the class by the
number of outstanding shares of the class.


Purchase and redemption orders for shares received by the close of regular
trading (currently 4:00 p.m., Eastern time) are priced according to the NAV
determined on that day. Purchase and redemption orders received after the close
of trading are priced according to the next determined price per share. The
Funds reserve the right to change the time at which purchases and redemptions
are priced if the NYSE closes at a time other than 4:00 p.m. Eastern time or if
an emergency exists.


11
<PAGE>
 
Purchasing Shares

The minimum initial investment for Fund shares is $25,000 (including IRAs).
Subsequent investments for the Fund shares will be accepted in minimum amounts
of $5,000 (including IRAs). The Funds reserve the right to vary the investment
minimums and impose minimums for additional investments at any time. In
addition, UBS Investment Funds may waive the minimum initial investment
requirement for any investor at its discretion. Purchases may be made in one of
the following ways:


By Telephone

Call 1-800-794-7753 to arrange for a telephone transaction.

If you want to make future transactions (e.g., purchasing additional shares,
redeeming or exchanging shares) by telephone, you will need to elect this option
either on the initial application or subsequently in writing.
    
Complete and sign an application for the UBS Investment Funds Class of shares.
     
By Mail
         
Make your check payable to "UBS Investment Funds -- ____________."

If you are adding to your existing account, enclose the remittance portion of
your account statement and include the amount of investment, account name and
number.
    
Mail your application and/or check to:
UBS Investment Funds
c/o Transfer Agent
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798     

By Wire

If you are opening a new account, call the Funds at 1-800-794-7753 to arrange
for a wire transaction.

Then wire federal funds to:

The Chase Manhattan Bank
ABA#021000021
DDA#9102-783504
FBO: "UBS Investment Funds - _________" and include your name and new account
number.
    
Complete and sign an application for UBS Investment Funds Class of shares and
mail immediately following the initial wire transaction to:
UBS Investment Funds
c/o Transfer Agent
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798     

If you are adding to your existing account, you do not need to call the Funds to
arrange for a wire transaction, but be sure to include your name and account
number.

Through Financial
Institutions/
Professionals
    
In some cases, the Funds have entered into one or more Sales Agreements with
brokers, dealers or financial institutions (banks and bank trust departments)
(each an "Authorized Dealer"). The Authorized Dealer, or intermediaries
designated by the Authorized Dealer (a "Sub-designee"), may accept purchase and
redemption orders that are in "good form" on behalf of the Funds. A Fund will be
deemed to have received a purchase or redemption order when the Authorized
Dealer or Sub-designee accepts the order. Such orders will be priced at the
Fund's net asset value next computed after such order is accepted. These
Authorized Dealers may charge the investor a transaction fee or other fee for
their services at the time of purchase. These fees would not be otherwise
charged if you purchase shares directly from the Funds. It is the responsibility
of such broker-dealers or service organizations to promptly forward purchase
orders with payments to the Funds.     

Telephone orders are accepted from broker-dealers or service organizations if
they have been previously approved by the Funds.

Brinson Partners, or its affiliates, may, from its own resources, compensate
broker-dealers or other financial intermediaries ("Service Providers") for
services performed with respect to the UBS Investment Fund's shares. These
services may include marketing, shareholder servicing, recordkeeping and/or
other services. Payments made for any of these purposes may be made from Brinson
Partners' revenues, its profits or any other sources available. When these
service arrangements are in effect, they are generally made available to all
qualified Service Providers.


                                                                              12
<PAGE>
 
Purchasing Shares (cont.)

The Funds will not accept a check endorsed over by a third party. The Funds
reserve the right to reject any purchase order and to suspend the offering of
shares of the UBS Investment Funds. This includes purchase orders that, in the
reasonable belief of the Funds have been made by market timers or short-term
traders.

You will be subject to a 1.50% transaction charge in connection with your
purchase of shares of the Emerging Markets Equity Fund and a 0.75% transaction
charge in connection with your purchase of shares of the Emerging Markets Debt
Fund. Shares of the Funds are sold at a price which is equal to the NAV of such
shares, plus the transaction charge. The transaction charges do not apply to the
reinvestment of dividends or capital gain distributions. The transaction charges
are paid to the Funds and used by them to defray the transaction costs
associated with the purchase and sale of securities within the Funds.

Exchanging Shares
You can exchange your UBS Investment Funds Class of shares for UBS Investment
Funds Class of shares of other Funds. Exchanges will not be permitted between
the UBS Investment Funds Class of shares and either the Brinson Funds--Class N
shares or the Brinson Funds--Class I shares.

Under certain circumstances, the Funds may:
* Limit the number of exchanges between Funds
* Reject a telephone exchange order
* Modify or discontinue the exchange privilege upon 60 days' written notice
    
Exchanged Funds are subject to the minimum initial investment requirement. The
procedures that apply to redeeming shares also apply to exchanging shares. An
exchange is the sale of shares of one fund and purchase of shares of another and
could result in taxable gain or loss in a non-tax sheltered account.     

Account Options
The following account options are available. There are no charges for the
programs noted below and you may change or terminate these plans at any time by
written notice to the Funds. For information about participating in these
account options, call the transfer agent at 1-800-794-7753.


Automatic Investment Plan 

Through this option, money can be electronically deducted from your checking,
savings or bank money market accounts and invested in the Funds each month or
quarter.

Complete the Automatic Investment Plan Application, which is available upon
request by calling 1-800-794-7753, and mail it to the address indicated.

The initial $25,000 minimum investment still applies, however, subsequent
investments can be a minimum of $5,000.

The Funds may alter or terminate the Automatic Investment Plan at any time.


Systematic Withdrawal Plan

If you have a minimum of $25,000 in your account, you may direct the transfer
agent to make payments to you (or anyone you designate) monthly, quarterly or
semi-annually.

Withdrawals are drawn from share redemptions and must be a minimum of $1,000 per
payment. Under the Systematic Withdrawal Plan (SWP), you must elect to have
dividends and distributions automatically reinvested in additional Fund shares.

The Funds may terminate any SWP if the value of the account falls below $1,000
due to share redemptions or an exchange of shares for shares of another UBS
Investment Fund.


Individual Retirement Account

You may open an IRA, a tax-deferred retirement account, with the Funds if you
are under age 70 1/2. The minimum purchase requirement for an IRA is $25,000.


13
<PAGE>
 
Redeeming Shares

Your shares will be redeemed at the NAV next calculated after your order is
received by the Funds' transfer agent in good order. Your order will be
processed promptly and you will generally receive the proceeds within five
business days.

Please note that proceeds for redemption requests made shortly after a recent
purchase by check will be distributed once the check clears, which may take up
to 15 days.

The Funds reserve the right to pay redemptions "in kind" (i.e., payment in
securities rather than in cash) if the amount you are redeeming is large enough
to affect a Fund's operations (for example, if it represents more than $250,000
or 1% of the Fund's assets). In these cases, you might incur brokerage costs
converting the securities to cash.

You will be subject to a 1.50% transaction charge in connection with each
redemption of shares of the Emerging Markets Equity Fund. Redemption requests
for the Emerging Markets Equity Fund are paid at NAV less the transaction
charge. Redemptions which are made in kind with securities are not subject to
the transaction charge.

Minimum Balances
Due to the relatively high cost of maintaining smaller accounts, the Funds
reserve the right to involuntarily redeem shares in any Fund account for their
then current net asset value if at any time your total investment does not have
a value of at least $1,000 as a result of redemptions and not due to changes in
the asset value of the Fund.

You will be notified if your account drops below the required minimum and will
be allowed at least 60 days to bring the value of the account up to the minimum
before the redemption is processed. The Fund will promptly pay you the NAV for
such a redemption.

You may redeem some or all of your shares any day the NYSE is open for business
by doing one of the following (if you have any questions, call the transfer
agent at 1-800-794-7753).


By Telephone

If you have chosen the telephone redemption privilege on the initial application
or subsequently arranged in writing, you may call 1-800-794-7753 to redeem
shares.

    
By Mail 

Shareholders may sell shares by making a written request to: P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798     

Include signatures of all persons required to sign for transactions, exactly as
their name appears on the account application.

To protect your account from fraud, the Funds may require a signature guarantee
for certain redemptions (see "Signature Guarantees" below).


By Bank Wire

If you have chosen the wire redemption privilege on the initial application or
subsequently arranged in writing, you may request the Funds to wire your
proceeds to a predesignated bank account.

Call 1-800-794-7753.

Wire redemption requests must be received by the transfer agent by 4:00 p.m.
Eastern time for money to be wired the next business day.


Through Financial
Institutionals/
Professionals

Contact your financial institution or professional for more information.

Important note: Each institution or professional may have its own procedures and
requirements for selling shares and may charge fees.


14
<PAGE>
 
Redeeming Shares (cont.)

Redemption requests should be accompanied by the Fund's name, your Fund account
number and the dollar amount or number of shares to be redeemed. The Fund will
mail a check to your account address or, if you have elected the wire redemption
privilege, the Fund will wire the proceeds to your bank.

Signature Guarantees
To protect your account from fraud, the Fund and its agent may require a
signature guarantee for certain redemptions to verify the identity of the person
who has authorized a redemption from your account. Please contact the Fund for
further information.

Telephone Transactions
You may give up some level of security by choosing to buy or sell shares by
telephone, rather than by mail. The Funds will employ reasonable procedures to
confirm that telephone instructions are genuine. If they do not employ these
procedures, the Funds or the transfer agent may be liable for any losses due to
unauthorized or fraudulent transactions. A written confirmation will be provided
for all purchase, exchange and redemption transactions initiated by telephone.

Transfer of Securities
Under certain circumstances, investors may be permitted to purchase Fund shares
by transferring securities to a separate Fund that meets the original Fund's
investment objective and policies. (Please see the Statement of Additional
Information for more information.)


Dividends and Distributions

Each Fund passes most of its net investment income along to investors in the
form of distributions. All shareholders of a Fund are entitled to a
proportionate share of the Fund's net income and realized capital gains on its
investments.

Net investment income for all of the Funds consists of all dividends and
interest received, less expenses (including fees payable to the Advisor and its
affiliates).

Dividends from net investment income are declared, and paid, by each Fund semi-
annually - in June and December. In December, the Funds will distribute
substantially all of their net long-term capital gains and any undistributed net
short-term capital gains realized during the one year period commencing November
1 (or date of the creation of the Fund, if later) and ending October 31. At the
same time, the Funds will distribute all of their net investment income earned
through the end of December and not previously distributed as ordinary (not
capital) income.

Dividends and other distributions paid on each class of shares of a Fund are
calculated at the same time and in the same manner. Dividends on each class
might be affected differently by the allocation of other class-specific
expenses.
    
Unless you notify the transfer agent in writing that you elect to receive your
income dividends and capital gain distributions in cash, all will be reinvested
automatically in additional Fund shares of the same class of a Fund.
Distribution options may be changed at any time by requesting a change in
writing. Dividends are reinvested on the reinvestment date at the net asset
value determined at the close of business on that date. Please note that shares
purchased shortly before the record date for a dividend or distribution may have
the effect of returning capital, although such dividends and distributions are
subject to taxes.     


15
<PAGE>
 
Tax Considerations

Following is a brief discussion of the general tax treatment of various
distributions from the Funds. It is not an exhaustive discussion, and your
particular tax status may be different. We encourage you to consult with your
own tax advisor about federal, state and local tax considerations.
    
In general, distributions from a Fund are taxable to you as either ordinary
income or capital gains. This is true whether you invest your distributions in
additional shares of a Fund or receive them in cash. Any capital gains
distributed by a Fund are taxable to you as long-term capital gains no matter
how long you have owned your shares. The rate of tax will generally depend on
how long the Fund held the securities on which it realized the gains.     

It is expected that distributions from the Emerging Markets Debt Fund will
consist primarily of ordinary income as a result of its investment objective and
strategies.

When you sell or exchange your shares of a Fund, you may have a capital gain or
loss. The tax rate on any gain from the sale or exchange of your shares depends
on how long you have held your shares.
    
Fund distributions and gains from the sale or exchange of your shares will
generally be subject to state and local income tax. Ex-U.S. investors may be
subject to U.S. withholding and estate tax.

If any of the following situations apply to you, the Funds will be required by
the IRS to withhold 31% of your taxable distributions:
* you do not provide your correct taxpayer identification number, or
* you do not certify that such number is correct, or
* if the IRS instructs the Fund to do so

Shareholders will be advised annually of the source and the tax status of all
Fund distributions for federal income tax purposes.

Buying a Dividend
If you buy shares in a Stock Fund just before the Fund makes any distribution,
or if you buy shares in any Bond Fund just prior to a capital gain distribution,
you will receive some of the purchase price back in the form of a taxable
distribution.

Distribution Arrangements

The Funds have adopted a distribution plan under rule 12b-1 of the Investment
Company Act of 1940 to compensate Brinson Partners, Funds Distributor Inc. (FDI)
and others for distributing and promoting sales of the UBS Investment Funds
Class of shares. Annual fees paid under the plan may not exceed 0.90% of the
average daily net assets (0.25% of which are service fees to be paid by the
Funds to FDI, dealers and others, for providing personal service and/or
maintaining shareholder accounts) of each UBS Investment Fund's Class of shares.
The plan provides, however, that the aggregate distribution fees for each
respective Fund shall not exceed the following maximum amounts for the 1999
fiscal year:

Emerging Markets Equity Fund       0.85%
Emerging Markets Debt Fund         0.75

Because these distribution and service fees are paid out of the assets of each
share class' 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.


Multiple Classes

The Funds are a series of The Brinson Funds, a Delaware business trust, and
currently offer three classes of shares: the Brinson Funds-Class I, Brinson
Funds-Class N and UBS Investment Funds Class of shares.


                                                                              16
<PAGE>
 
Appendix A
 
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                              As of December 31, 1998
Brinson Partners, Inc.                Number of Accounts       Assets        Percentage of     Highest Annual
Composite Name                           per Composite      ($ millions)      Firm Assets      Fee on Assets
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                   <C>                   <C>      <C>     <C>               <C>
Emerging Markets Equity Portfolio              1                 401              0.4               1.10%

Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio                1                 398              0.4               0.65%
</TABLE>

The composites presented in this report are single entity composites or the
assets of a single client. As such, internal dispersion for all periods is zero
and is not presented in this report. AIMR-PPS (TM) states that pooled funds,
including unit trusts (or collective funds) may be treated as separate
composites. As such, this report presents the composite performance results of
collective funds only and does not include separately managed accounts.
Composites for separately managed accounts are available upon request.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Historical Annual Returns (as of December 31 each year)

Name                                     1998       1997        1996        1995        1994
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                     <C>        <C>         <C>         <C>          <C>
Emerging Markets Equity Portfolio       -23.74%    -11.81%      9.12%      -6.34%*       NA

Emerging Markets Debt Portfolio         -13.47%     19.35%     45.00%      17.63%*       NA
</TABLE>


*Represents partial-year performance.  Returns are not annualized.     


17
<PAGE>
 
For More Information

More information on the UBS Investment Funds is available free upon request:

Shareholder Reports
Additional information about the Funds' investments is available in the Funds'
annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders. In the Funds' annual report, you
will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that
significantly affected each Fund's performance during its last fiscal year.

Statement Of Additional Information (SAI)
The SAI provides more details about each Fund and its policies. The SAI is on
file with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) and is incorporated by
reference into (is legally considered part of) this prospectus.


TO OBTAIN INFORMATION:

By Telephone
Call 1-800-794-7753

By Mail
UBS Investment Funds
P.O. Box 2798
Boston, MA 02208-2798

By Email
[email protected]

On The Internet
Text-only versions of the prospectus and other documents pertaining to the Funds
can be viewed online or downloaded from:

   SEC: http://www.sec.gov


Information about the Funds (including the SAI) can also be reviewed and copied
at the SEC's public reference room in Washington, DC (phone 1-800-SEC-0330). 
Or, you can obtain copies of this information by sending a request, along 
with a duplicating fee, to the SEC's Public Reference Section, Washington, 
DC 20549-6009.

The Funds are series of The Brinson Funds.
Registration number: 811-6637


                                                                              18
<PAGE>
 
                               THE BRINSON FUNDS

                                  GLOBAL FUND
                              GLOBAL EQUITY FUND
                               GLOBAL BOND FUND
                              U.S. BALANCED FUND
                               U.S. EQUITY FUND
                     U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION EQUITY FUND
                     U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND
                     U.S. SMALL CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND
                                U.S. BOND FUND
                                HIGH YIELD FUND
                         GLOBAL (EX-U.S.) EQUITY FUND
                         EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND
                          EMERGING MARKETS DEBT FUND
                                        
                      STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
                                        
                                  May 3, 1999
                                            
          The Brinson Funds (the "Trust") currently offers thirteen separate
series, each with its own investment objective and policies. The Trust also
offers three classes of shares for each series - the Brinson Fund-Class I, the
Brinson Fund-Class N and the UBS Investment Funds class. Information concerning
the Brinson Fund-Class I of each series is included in a separate Prospectus
dated May 3, 1999. Information concerning the Brinson Fund-Class N of each
series is included in a separate Prospectus dated May 3, 1999. Information
concerning the UBS Investment Funds class of shares of each series is included
in a separate Prospectus dated May 3, 1999. This Statement of Additional
Information ("SAI") is not a Prospectus, but should be read in conjunction with
the current Prospectuses of the Trust. Much of the information contained herein
expands upon subjects discussed in the Prospectuses. No investment in shares
should be made without first reading the applicable Prospectus. A copy of each
Prospectus and the Annual Report may be obtained without charge from the Trust
at the addresses and telephone numbers below.
     
UNDERWRITER:                            ADVISOR:

Funds Distributor, Inc.                 Brinson Partners, Inc.
60 State Street, Suite 1300             209 South LaSalle Street
Boston, MA  02109                       Chicago, IL  60604-1295
1-800-448-2430 (Brinson Fund-Class I    1-800-448-2430 (Brinson Fund-Class I and
and Brinson Fund-Class N)               Brinson Fund-Class N)
1-800-794-7753 (UBS Investment Funds    1-800-794-7753 (UBS Investment Funds
class)                                  Class)  

                                       1
<PAGE>
 
     The Annual Reports dated June 30, 1998 and the Annual Reports and Semi-
Annual Reports dated December 31, 1998 to shareholders of the Trust's series are
separate documents supplied with this SAI, and the financial statements,
accompanying notes and report of independent auditors appearing in each of the
Annual Reports are incorporated by reference into (legally made a part of) this
SAI. The unaudited financial statements of the series (except for the U.S. Large
Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund, High Yield
Fund, Emerging Markets Debt Fund and Emerging Markets Equity Fund, which had not
commenced operations as of the time period indicated) appearing in their Semi-
Annual Reports also are incorporated by reference into this SAI. The audited 
financial statements, accompanying notes and reports of independent auditors 
appearing in the Annual Report dated December 31, 1997 for the U.S. Large 
Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund and High Yield
Fund also are incorporated by reference into this SAI.

                                       2
<PAGE>
 
                               TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
<S>...........................................................................  <C>
GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE TRUST...........................................   5
     Diversified Status.......................................................   5
     General Definitions......................................................   5
INVESTMENT STRATEGIES.........................................................   6
INVESTMENTS RELATING TO ALL FUNDS.............................................   6
     Cash and Cash Equivalents................................................   6
     Repurchase Agreements....................................................   7
     Reverse Repurchase Agreements............................................   7
     Borrowing................................................................   8
     Loans of Portfolio Securities............................................   8
     Swaps....................................................................   8
     Futures..................................................................   9
     Options..................................................................  10
     Index Options............................................................  13
     Special Risks of Options on Indices......................................  13
     Rule 144A and Illiquid Securities........................................  14
     Other Investments........................................................  14
INVESTMENTS RELATING TO THE GLOBAL FUND, GLOBAL EQUITY FUND, U.S. BALANCED
FUND, U.S. EQUITY FUND, U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION FUND, U.S. LARGE 
CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND, U.S. SMALL CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND, GLOBAL
(ex-U.S.) EQUITY FUND AND EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND..........................14
     Equity Securities..........................................................15
INVESTMENTS RELATING TO THE GLOBAL FUNDS, U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION GROWTH 
FUND, U.S. SMALL CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND, HIGH YIELD FUND, GLOBAL (ex-U.S.) 
EQUITY FUND, EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND AND EMERGING MARKETS DEBT FUND......  14
     Foreign Securities.......................................................  15
     Forward Foreign Currency Contracts.......................................  16
     Options on Foreign Currencies............................................  16
     Short Sales..............................................................  17
INVESTMENTS RELATING TO THE GLOBAL FUND, GLOBAL BOND FUND, U.S. BALANCED FUND, 
U.S. BOND FUND, HIGH YIELD FUND, EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND AND EMERGING 
MARKETS DEBT FUND.............................................................  18
     Lower Rated Debt Securities..............................................  18
     Pay-In-Kind Bonds........................................................  19
     Convertible Securities...................................................  19
     When-Issued Securities...................................................  19
     Mortgage-Backed Securities and Mortgage Pass-Through Securities..........  20
     Collateralized Mortgage Obligations ("CMOs") and Real Estate Mortgage    
          Investment Conduits ("REMICs")......................................  22
     Other Mortgage-Backed Securities.........................................  22
     Asset-Backed Securities..................................................  23
     Zero Coupon and Delayed Interest Securities..............................  25
INVESTMENTS RELATING TO THE GLOBAL FUND, HIGH YIELD FUND, EMERGING MARKETS 
EQUITY FUND AND EMERGING MARKETS DEBT FUND....................................  26
     Emerging Markets Investments.............................................  26
     Risks of Investing in Emerging Markets...................................  28
     Investments in Russian Securities........................................  29
     Investments in Affiliated Investment Companies...........................  30
INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS.......................................................  31
MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST.......................................................  33
     Trustees and Officers....................................................  33
     Compensation Table.......................................................  35
CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SECURITIES...........................  36
</TABLE> 

                                       3
<PAGE>
 
   
<TABLE> 
<S>                                                                            <C>  
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AND OTHER SERVICES......................................    45
     Advisor................................................................    45
     Administrator..........................................................    50
     Independent Auditors...................................................    54
     Underwriter............................................................    54
     Distribution Plan......................................................    55
     Code of Ethics.........................................................    57
PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS AND BROKERAGE COMMISSIONS............................    57
     Portfolio Turnover.....................................................    60
SHARES OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST...............................................    61
PURCHASES...................................................................    62
     Exchanges of Shares....................................................    63
     Transfer of Securities.................................................    64
     Net Asset Value........................................................    64
REDEMPTIONS.................................................................    65
TAXATION....................................................................    67
ADDITIONAL PURCHASE AND REDEMPTION INFORMATION..............................    68
PERFORMANCE CALCULATIONS....................................................    69
     Total Return...........................................................    69
     Yield..................................................................    72
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND REPORTS OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS....................    73
CORPORATE DEBT RATINGS --- APPENDIX A.......................................   A-1
</TABLE>       

                                       4
<PAGE>
 
GENERAL INFORMATION ABOUT THE TRUST

     The Brinson Funds (the "Trust"), 209 South LaSalle Street, Chicago,
Illinois 60604-1295, is an open-end management investment company which
currently offers shares of thirteen series representing separate portfolios of
investments: Global Fund, Global Equity Fund, Global Bond Fund, U.S. Balanced
Fund, U.S. Equity Fund, U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund, U.S Large
Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Bond
Fund, High Yield Fund, Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund (formerly, the Non-U.S.
Equity Fund), Emerging Markets Equity Fund and Emerging Markets Debt Fund. The
Trust currently offers three classes of shares for each Series: the Brinson
Fund-Class I, Brinson Fund-Class N and UBS Investment Funds class of shares. The
Brinson Fund-Class I shares of each Series, which are designed primarily for
institutional investors, have no sales charges and are not subject to annual
12b-1 plan expenses. The Brinson Fund-Class N shares, which are available
exclusively to 401(k) participants, have no sales charges, but are subject to
annual 12b-1 plan expenses of 0.25% of average daily net assets of the
respective Series. The UBS Investment Funds class of shares of each Series have
no sales charges, but are subject to annual 12b-1 expenses of up to a maximum of
0.90% of average daily net assets of the respective Series.

DIVERSIFIED STATUS

     Each of the Global Fund, Global Equity Fund, U.S. Balanced Fund, U.S.
Equity Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Bond Fund, High Yield
Fund and Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund is "diversified" as that term is defined
in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Act").  Each of the
Global Bond Fund, U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund, U.S. Large
Capitalization Growth Fund, Emerging Markets Equity Fund and Emerging Markets
Debt Fund is classified as "non-diversified" for purposes of the Act, which
means that each Fund is not limited by the Act with regard to the portion of its
assets that may be invested in the securities of a single issuer.  To the extent
that a non-diversified Fund makes investments in excess of 5% of its assets in
the securities of a particular issuer, its exposure to the risks associated with
that issuer is increased.  Because each Fund may invest in a limited number of
issuers, the performance of particular securities may adversely affect the
performance of the Fund or subject the Fund to greater price volatility than
that experienced by diversified investment companies.

GENERAL DEFINITIONS

     As used throughout this SAI, the following terms shall have the meanings
listed:

     "Act" shall mean the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.

     "Advisor" or "Brinson Partners" shall mean Brinson Partners, Inc., which
serves as the Funds' investment advisor.

     "Board" shall mean the Board of Trustees of the Trust.

     "Code" shall mean the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.

     "Funds" or "Series" shall mean collectively the Global Fund, Global Equity
Fund, Global Bond Fund, U.S. Balanced Fund, U.S. Equity Fund, U.S. Large
Capitalization Equity Fund, U.S Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small
Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Bond Fund, High Yield Fund, Global (ex-U.S.)
Equity Fund, Emerging Markets Equity Fund and Emerging Markets Debt Fund (or
individually, a "Fund" or a "Series").

     "Global Funds" shall mean collectively the Global Fund, Global Equity Fund,
Global Bond Fund, Emerging Markets Equity Fund and Emerging Markets Debt Fund
(or individually, as the "Global Fund").

                                       5
<PAGE>
 
     "Moody's" shall mean Moody's Investors Service, Inc.

     "SEC" shall mean the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.

     "S&P" shall mean Standard & Poor's Ratings Group.

     "Trust" shall mean The Brinson Funds, an open-end management investment
company registered under the Act.

     "U.S. Funds" shall mean collectively the U.S. Balanced Fund, U.S. Equity
Fund, U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund, U.S. Large Capitalization Growth
Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Bond Fund and High Yield Fund.

     "1933 Act" shall mean the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

INVESTMENT STRATEGIES

     The following discussion of investment techniques and instruments
supplements and should be read in conjunction with the investment objectives and
policies set forth in the Prospectuses of the Funds.  The investment practices
described below, except for the discussion of percentage limitations with
respect to portfolio loan transactions and borrowing, are not fundamental and
may be changed by the Board without the approval of the shareholders.

INVESTMENTS RELATING TO ALL FUNDS

     The following discussion applies to all Series.

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS

     The Series may invest a portion of their assets in short-term debt
securities (including repurchase agreements and reverse repurchase agreements)
of corporations, the U.S. government and its agencies and instrumentalities and
banks and finance companies, which may be denominated in any currency.  When
unusual market conditions warrant, a Series may make substantial temporary
defensive investments in cash equivalents up to a maximum of 100% of its net
assets.  Cash equivalent holdings may be in any currency (although such holdings
may not constitute "cash or cash equivalents" for tax diversification purposes
under the Code).  When a Series invests for defensive purposes, it may affect
the attainment of the Series' investment objective.

     Under the terms of an exemptive order issued by the SEC, each Series may
invest cash (i) held for temporary defensive purposes; (ii) not invested pending
investment in securities; (iii) that is set aside to cover an obligation or
commitment of the Series to purchase securities or other assets at a later date;
(iv) to be invested on a strategic management basis (i-iv is herein referred to
as "Uninvested Cash"); and (v) collateral that it receives from the borrowers of
its portfolio securities in connection with the Series' securities lending
program, in a series of shares of Brinson Supplementary Trust (the
"Supplementary Trust Series").  Brinson Supplementary Trust is a private
investment company which has retained Brinson Partners to manage its
investments.  The Trustees of the Trust also serve as Trustees of the Brinson
Supplementary Trust.  The Supplementary Trust Series will invest in U.S. dollar
denominated money market instruments having a dollar-weighted average maturity
of 90 days or less.  A Series' investment of Uninvested Cash in shares of the
Supplementary Series Trust will not exceed 25% of the Series' total assets.  In
the event that Brinson Partners waives 100% of its investment advisory fee with
respect to a Series, as calculated monthly, then that Series will be unable to
invest in the Supplementary Trust Series until additional investment advisory
fees are owed by the Series.

                                       6
<PAGE>
 
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS

     When a Series enters into a repurchase agreement, it purchases securities
from a bank or broker-dealer which simultaneously agrees to repurchase the
securities at a mutually agreed upon time and price, thereby determining the
yield during the term of the agreement.  As a result, a repurchase agreement
provides a fixed rate of return insulated from market fluctuations during the
term of the agreement.  The term of a repurchase agreement generally is short,
possibly overnight or for a few days, although it may extend over a number of
months (up to one year) from the date of delivery.  Repurchase agreements are
considered under the Act to be collateralized loans by a Series to the seller
secured by the securities transferred to the Series.  Repurchase agreements will
be fully collateralized and the collateral will be marked-to-market daily.  A
Series may not enter into a repurchase agreement having more than seven days
remaining to maturity if, as a result, such agreement, together with any other
illiquid securities held by the Series, would exceed 15% of the value of the net
assets of the Series.

     In the event of bankruptcy or other default by the seller of the security
under a repurchase agreement, a Series may suffer time delays and incur costs or
possible losses in connection with the disposition of the collateral.  In such
event, instead of the contractual fixed rate of return, the rate of return to a
Series would be dependent upon intervening fluctuations of the market value of
the underlying security and the accrued interest on the security.  Although a
Series would have rights against the seller for breach of contract with respect
to any losses arising from market fluctuations following the failure of the
seller to perform, the ability of a Series to recover damages from a seller in
bankruptcy or otherwise in default would be reduced.

     Repurchase agreements are securities for purposes of the tax
diversification requirements that must be met for pass-through treatment under
the Code.  Accordingly, each Series will limit the value of its repurchase
agreements on each of the quarterly testing dates to ensure compliance with
Subchapter M of the Code.

REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS

     Reverse repurchase agreements involve sales of portfolio securities of a
Series to member banks of the Federal Reserve System or securities dealers
believed creditworthy, concurrently with an agreement by the Series to
repurchase the same securities at a later date at a fixed price which is
generally equal to the original sales price plus interest.  A Series retains
record ownership and the right to receive interest and principal payments on the
portfolio securities involved.  In connection with each reverse repurchase
transaction, a Series will direct its custodian bank to place cash, U.S.
government securities, equity securities and/or investment and non-investment
grade debt securities in a segregated account of the Series in an amount equal
to the repurchase price. Any assets held in any segregated accounts maintained
by a Series with respect to any reverse repurchase agreements, when-issued
securities, options, futures, forward contracts or other derivative transactions
shall be liquid, unencumbered and marked-to-market daily (any such assets held
in a segregated account are referred to in this SAI as "Segregated Assets"), and
such Segregated Assets shall be maintained in accordance with pertinent
positions of the SEC.

     A reverse repurchase agreement involves the risk that the market value of
the securities retained by a Series may decline below the price of the
securities the Series has sold but is obligated to repurchase under the
agreement.  In the event the buyer of securities under a reverse repurchase
agreement files for bankruptcy or becomes insolvent, the Series' use of the
proceeds of the agreement may be restricted pending a determination by the other
party, or its trustee or receiver, whether to enforce the Series' obligation to
repurchase the securities.  Reverse repurchase agreements are considered
borrowings by the Series and as such, are subject to the same investment
limitations.

                                       7
<PAGE>
 
BORROWING

     The Series may borrow money as a temporary measure for extraordinary
purposes or to facilitate redemptions. A Series will not borrow money in excess
of 33 1/3%  of the value of its total assets. A Series has no intention of
increasing its  net income through borrowing. Any borrowing will be done from a
bank with the required asset coverage of at least 300%. In the event that such
asset coverage shall at any time fall below 300%, a Series shall, within three
days thereafter (not including Sundays or holidays), or such longer period as
the SEC may prescribe by rules and regulations, reduce the amount of its
borrowings to such an extent that the asset coverage of such borrowings shall be
at least 300%. A Series will not pledge more than 10% of its net assets, or
issue senior securities as defined in the Act, except for notes to banks and
reverse repurchase agreements. Investment securities will not be purchased while
a Series has an outstanding borrowing that exceeds 5% of a Series' net assets.

LOANS OF PORTFOLIO SECURITIES

     The Series may lend portfolio securities to qualified broker-dealers and
financial institutions pursuant to agreements provided: (1) the loan is secured
continuously by collateral marked-to-market daily and maintained in an amount at
least equal to the current market value of the securities loaned; (2) a Series
may call the loan at any time and receive the securities loaned; (3) a Series
will receive any interest or dividends paid on the loaned securities; and (4)
the aggregate market value of securities loaned will not at any time exceed 33
1/3% of the total assets of the Global Fund, Global Equity Fund, Global Bond
Fund, U.S. Balanced Fund, U.S. Equity Fund, U.S. Large Capitalization Equity
Fund, U.S. Bond Fund and Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund, respectively.

     Collateral will consist of U.S. and non-U.S. securities, cash equivalents
or irrevocable letters of credit.  Loans of securities involve a risk that the
borrower may fail to return the securities or may fail to maintain the proper
amount of collateral.  Therefore, a Series will only enter into portfolio loans
after a review of all pertinent factors by the Advisor under the supervision of
the Board, including the creditworthiness of the borrower and then only if the
consideration to be received from such loans would justify the risk.
Creditworthiness will be monitored on an ongoing basis by the Advisor.

SWAPS

     The Series (except for the Global Equity Fund, U.S. Equity Fund, U.S. Large
Capitalization Equity Fund, U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small
Capitalization Growth Fund, High Yield Fund and Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund)
may engage in swaps, including but not limited to interest rate, currency and
index swaps and the purchase or sale of related caps, floors, collars and other
derivative instruments.  A Series expects to enter into these transactions
primarily to preserve a return or spread on a particular investment or portion
of the portfolio's duration, to protect against any increase in the price of
securities the Series anticipates purchasing at a later date, or to gain
exposure to certain markets in the most economical way possible.

     Interest rate swaps involve the exchange by a Series with another party of
their respective commitments to receive or pay interest (e.g., an exchange of
fixed rate payments for floating rate payments) with respect to a notional
amount of principal.  Currency swaps involve the exchange of cash flows on a
notional amount based on changes in the values of referenced currencies.

     The purchase of a cap entitles the purchaser to receive payments on a
notional principal amount from the party selling the cap to the extent that a
specified index exceeds a predetermined interest rate or amount.  The purchase
of an interest rate floor entitles the purchaser to receive payments on a
notional principal amount from the party selling the floor to the extent that a
specified index falls below a predetermined interest rate or amount.  A collar
is a combination of a cap and a floor that preserves a certain return with a
predetermined range of interest rates or values.

                                       8
<PAGE>
 
     The use of swaps involves investment techniques and risks different from
those associated with ordinary portfolio security transactions.  If Brinson
Partners is incorrect in its forecast of market values, interest rates and other
applicable factors, the investment performance of the Series will be less
favorable than it would have been if this investment technique was never used.
Swaps do not involve the delivery of securities or other underlying assets or
principal.  Thus, if the other party to a swap defaults, a Series' risk of loss
consists of the net amount of interest payments that the Series is contractually
entitled to receive.  Under Internal Revenue Service rules, any lump sum payment
received or due under the notional principal contract must be amortized over the
life of the contract using the appropriate methodology prescribed by the
Internal Revenue Service.

     The equity swaps in which all aforementioned Series intend to invest
involve agreements with a counterparty.  The return to the Series on any equity
swap contact will be the total return on the notional amount of the contract as
if it were invested in the stocks comprising the contract index in exchange for
an interest component based on the notional amount of the agreement.  A Series
will only enter into an equity swap contract on a net basis, i.e., the two
parties' obligations are netted out, with the Series paying or receiving, as the
case may be, only the net amount of the payments.  Payments under the equity
swap contracts may be made at the conclusion of the contract or periodically
during its term.

     If there is a default by the counterparty to a swap contract, the Series
will be limited to contractual remedies pursuant to the agreements related to
the transaction.  There is no assurance that a swap contract counterparty will
be able to meet its obligations pursuant to a swap contract or that, in the
event of a default, the Series will succeed in pursuing contractual remedies.
The Series thus assumes the risk that it may be delayed in or prevented from
obtaining payments owed to it pursuant to a swap contract.  However, the amount
at risk is only the net unrealized gain, if any, on the swap, not the entire
notional amount.  The Advisor will closely monitor, subject to the oversight of
the Board, the creditworthiness of swap counterparties in order to minimize the
risk of swaps.

     The Advisor and the Trust do not believe that the Series' obligations under
swap contracts are senior securities and, accordingly, the Series will not treat
them as being subject to its borrowing or senior securities restrictions.
However, the net amount of the excess, if any, of a Series' obligations over its
entitlements with respect to each swap contract will be accrued on a daily basis
and an amount of cash, U.S. government securities or other liquid assets having
an aggregate market value at least equal to the accrued excess will be
segregated in accordance with SEC positions.  To the extent that a Series cannot
dispose of a swap in the ordinary course of business within seven days at
approximately the value at which the Series has valued the swap, the Series will
treat the swap as illiquid and subject to its overall limit on illiquid
investments of 15% of the Series' total net assets.

FUTURES

     The Series may enter into contracts for the purchase or sale for future
delivery of securities and indices.  The Global Funds and the Global (ex-U.S.)
Equity Fund, U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization
Growth Fund and High Yield Fund may also enter into contracts for the purchase
or sale for future delivery of foreign currencies.

     A purchase of a futures contract means the acquisition of a contractual
right to obtain delivery to a Series of the securities or foreign currency
called for by the contract at a specified price during a specified future month.
When a futures contract is sold, a Series incurs a contractual obligation to
deliver the securities or foreign currency underlying the contract at a
specified price on a specified date during a specified future month.  A Series
may enter into futures contracts and engage in options transactions related
thereto to the extent that not more than 5% of the Series' assets are required
as futures contract margin deposits and premiums on options, and may engage in
such transactions to the extent that obligations relating to such futures and
related options on futures transactions represent not more than 25% of the
Series' assets.

                                       9
<PAGE>
 
     When a Series enters into a futures transaction, it must deliver to the
futures commission merchant selected by the Series an amount referred to as
"initial margin."  This amount is maintained by the futures commission merchant
in a segregated account at the custodian bank. Thereafter, a "variation margin"
may be paid by the Series to, or drawn by the Series from, such account in
accordance with controls set for such accounts, depending upon changes in the
price of the underlying securities subject to the futures contract.  The Series
may also effect futures transactions through futures commission merchants who
are affiliated with the Advisor or the Series in accordance with procedures
adopted by the Board.

     The Series will enter into futures transactions on domestic exchanges and,
to the extent such transactions have been approved by the Commodity Futures
Trading Commission for sale to customers in the United States, on foreign
exchanges.  In addition, all of the Series may sell stock index futures in
anticipation of or during a market decline to attempt to offset the decrease in
market value of their common stocks that might otherwise result; and they may
purchase such contracts in order to offset increases in the cost of common
stocks that they intend to purchase.  Unlike other futures contracts, a stock
index futures contract specifies that no delivery of the actual stocks making up
the index will take place. Instead, settlement in cash must occur upon the
termination of the contract.

     While futures contracts provide for the delivery of securities, deliveries
usually do not occur.  Contracts are generally terminated by entering into
offsetting transactions.

     The Series may enter into futures contracts to protect against the adverse
affects of fluctuations in security prices, interest or foreign exchange rates
without actually buying or selling the securities or foreign currency.  For
example, if interest rates are expected to increase, a Series might enter into
futures contracts for the sale of debt securities.  Such a sale would have much
the same effect as selling an equivalent value of the debt securities owned by
the Series.  If interest rates did increase, the value of the debt securities in
the portfolio would decline, but the value of the futures contracts to the
Series would increase at approximately the same rate, thereby keeping the net
asset value of the Series from declining as much as it otherwise would have.
Similarly, when it is expected that interest rates may decline, futures
contracts may be purchased to hedge in anticipation of subsequent purchases of
securities at higher prices.  Since the fluctuations in the value of futures
contracts should be similar to those of debt securities, the Series could take
advantage of the anticipated rise in value of debt securities without actually
buying them until the market had stabilized.  At that time, the futures
contracts could be liquidated and the Series could then buy debt securities on
the cash market.

     To the extent that market prices move in an unexpected direction, a Series
may not achieve the anticipated benefits of futures contracts  or may realize a
loss.  For example, if a Series is hedged against the possibility of an increase
in interest rates which would adversely affect the price of securities held in
its portfolio and interest rates decrease instead, the Series would lose part or
all of the benefit of the increased value which it has because it would have
offsetting losses in its futures position.  In addition, in such situations, if
the Series had insufficient cash, it may be required to sell securities from its
portfolio to meet daily variation margin requirements.  Such sales of securities
may, but will not necessarily, be at increased prices which reflect the rising
market.  A Series may be required to sell securities at a time when it may be
disadvantageous to do so.

OPTIONS

     The Series may purchase and write call or put options on foreign or U.S.
securities and indices and enter into related closing transactions, but will
only engage in option strategies for non-speculative purposes.

     The U.S. Funds may invest in options that are listed on U.S. exchanges or
traded over-the-counter and the Global Funds, the U.S. Large Capitalization
Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund and the Global (ex-U.S.)
Equity Fund may invest in options that are either listed on U.S. or 

                                       10
<PAGE>
 
recognized foreign exchanges or traded over-the-counter. Certain over-the-
counter options may be illiquid. Thus, it may not be possible to close options
positions and this may have an adverse impact on a Series' ability to
effectively hedge its securities. The Series have been notified by the SEC that
it considers over-the-counter options to be illiquid. Accordingly, a Series will
only invest in such options to the extent consistent with its 15% limit on
investments in illiquid securities.

     PURCHASING CALL OPTIONS - The Series may purchase call options on
securities to the extent that premiums paid by a Series do not aggregate more
than 20% of the Series' total assets.  When a Series purchases a call option, in
return for a premium paid by the Series to the writer of the option, the Series
obtains the right to buy 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, who receives the premium upon writing the option, has the
obligation, upon exercise of the option, to deliver the underlying security
against payment of the exercise price.  The advantage of purchasing call options
is that a Series may alter portfolio characteristics and modify portfolio
maturities without incurring the cost associated with transactions.

     A Series may, following the purchase of a call option, 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.  The
Series will realize a profit from a closing sale transaction if the price
received on the transaction is more than the premium paid to purchase the
original call option; the Series will realize a loss from a closing sale
transaction if the price received on the transaction is less than the premium
paid to purchase the original call option.

     Although the Series will generally purchase only those call 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,
or at any particular time, and for some options no secondary market on an
exchange may exist.  In such event, it may not be possible to effect closing
transactions in particular options, with the result that a Series would have to
exercise its options in order to realize any profit and would incur brokerage
commissions upon the exercise of such options and upon the subsequent
disposition of the underlying securities acquired through the exercise of such
options.  Further, unless the price of the underlying security changes
sufficiently, a call option purchased by a Series may expire without any value
to the Series, in which event the Series would realize a capital loss which will
be short-term unless the option was held for more than one year.

     COVERED CALL WRITING -  A Series may write covered call options from time
to time on such portions of its portfolio, without limit, as Brinson Partners
determines is appropriate in seeking to achieve the Series' investment
objective.  The advantage to a Series of writing covered calls is that the
Series receives a premium which is additional income. However, if the security
rises in value, the Series may not fully participate in the market appreciation.

     During the option period for a covered call option, the writer may be
assigned an exercise notice by the broker-dealer through whom such call option
was sold, requiring the writer to deliver the underlying security against
payment of the exercise price.  This obligation is terminated upon the
expiration of the option or upon entering a closing purchase transaction.  A
closing purchase transaction, in which a Series, as writer of an option,
terminates its obligation by purchasing an option of the same series as the
option previously written, cannot be effected with respect to an option once the
option writer has received an exercise notice for such option.

     Closing purchase transactions will ordinarily be effected to realize a
profit on an outstanding call option, to prevent an underlying security from
being called, to permit the sale of the underlying security or to enable a
Series to write another call option on the underlying security with either a
different exercise price or expiration date or both.  A Series may realize a net
gain or loss from a closing purchase transaction depending upon whether the net
amount of the original premium received on the call option is more or less than
the cost of effecting the closing purchase transaction.  Any loss incurred in a
closing purchase transaction may be partially or entirely offset by the premium
received from a sale of a different 

                                       11
<PAGE>
 
call option on the same underlying security. Such a loss may also be wholly or
partially offset by unrealized appreciation in the market value of the
underlying security. Conversely, a gain resulting from a closing purchase
transaction could be offset in whole or in part by a decline in the market value
of the underlying security.

     If a call option expires unexercised, the Series will realize a short-term
capital gain in the amount of the premium on the option less the commission
paid.  Such a gain, however, may be offset by depreciation in the market value
of the underlying security during the option period.  If a call option is
exercised, a Series will realize a gain or loss from the sale of the underlying
security equal to the difference between the cost of the underlying security and
the proceeds of the sale of the security plus the amount of the premium on the
option less the commission paid.

     The Series will write call options only on a covered basis, which means
that a Series will own the underlying security subject to a call option at all
times during the option period.  Unless a closing purchase transaction is
effected, a Series would be required to continue to hold a security which it
might otherwise wish to sell or deliver a security it would want to hold.  The
exercise price of a call option may be below, equal to or above the current
market value of the underlying security at the time the option is written.

     PURCHASING PUT OPTIONS - The Series may only purchase put options to the
extent that the premiums on all outstanding put options do not exceed 20% of a
Series' total assets.  A Series will, at all times during which it holds a put
option, own the security covered by such option.  With regard to the writing of
put options, each Series will limit the aggregate value of the obligations
underlying such put options to 50% of its total net assets.  The purchase of the
put on substantially identical securities held will constitute a short sale for
tax purposes, the effect of which is to create short-term capital gain on the
sale of the security and to suspend running of its holding period (and treat it
as commencing on the date of the closing of the short sale) or that of a
security acquired to cover the same if, at the time the put was acquired, the
security had not been held for more than one year.

     A put option purchased by a Series gives it the right to sell one of its
securities for an agreed price up to an agreed date. The Series intend to
purchase put options in order to protect against a decline in the market value
of the underlying security below the exercise price less the premium paid for
the option ("protective puts").  The ability to purchase put options will allow
the Series to protect unrealized gains in an appreciated security in their
portfolios without actually selling the security.  If the security does not drop
in value, a Series will lose the value of the premium paid.  A Series may sell a
put option which it has previously purchased prior to the sale of the securities
underlying such option.  Such sale will result in a net gain or loss depending
on whether the amount received on the sale is more or less than the premium and
other transaction costs paid on the put option which is sold.

     The Series may sell a put option purchased on individual portfolio
securities. Additionally, the Series may enter into closing sale transactions.
A closing sale transaction is one in which a Series, when it is the holder of an
outstanding option, liquidates its position by selling an option of the same
series as the option previously purchased.

     WRITING PUT OPTIONS - The Series may also write put options on a secured
basis which means that a Series will maintain in a segregated account with its
custodian Segregated Assets in an amount not less than the exercise price of the
option at all times during the option period.  The amount of Segregated Assets
held in the segregated account will be adjusted on a daily basis to reflect
changes in the market value of the securities covered by the put option written
by the Series. Secured put options will generally be written in circumstances
where Brinson Partners wishes to purchase the underlying security for a Series'
portfolio at a price lower than the current market price of the security.  In
such event, a Series would write a secured put option at an exercise price
which, reduced by the premium received on the option, reflects the lower price
it is willing to pay.

                                       12
<PAGE>
 
     Following the writing of a put option, a Series may wish to terminate the
obligation to buy the security underlying the option by effecting a closing
purchase transaction.  This is accomplished by buying an option of the same
series as the option previously written.  The Series may not, however, effect
such a closing transaction after it has been notified of the exercise of the
option.

INDEX OPTIONS

     The Series may purchase exchange-listed call options on stock and fixed
income indices depending upon whether a Series is an equity or bond series and
sell such options in closing sale transactions for hedging purposes.  A Series
may purchase call options on broad market indices to temporarily achieve market
exposure when the Series is not fully invested.  A Series may also purchase
exchange-listed call options on particular market segment indices to achieve
temporary exposure to a specific industry.

     In addition, the Series may purchase put options on stock and fixed income
indices and sell such options in closing sale transactions for hedging purposes.
A Series may purchase put options on broad market indices in order to protect
its fully invested portfolio from a general market decline.  Put options on
market segments may be bought to protect a Series from a decline in value of
heavily weighted industries in the Series' portfolio.  Put options on stock and
fixed income indices may also be used to protect a Series' investments in the
case of a major redemption.

     The Series may also write (sell) put and call options on stock and fixed
income indices.  While the option is open, a Series will maintain a segregated
account with its custodian in an amount equal to the market value of the option.

     Options on indices are similar to regular options except that an option on
an index gives the holder the right, upon exercise, to receive an amount of cash
if the closing level of the index upon which the option is based is greater than
(in the case of a call) or lesser than (in the case of a put) the exercise price
of the option.  This amount of cash is equal to the difference between the
closing price of the index and the exercise price of the option expressed in
dollars times a specified multiple (the "multiplier").  The indices on which
options are traded include both U.S. and non-U.S. markets.

SPECIAL RISKS OF OPTIONS ON INDICES

     The Series' purchases of options on indices will subject them to the risks
described below.

     Because the value of an index option depends upon movements in the level of
the index rather than the price of a particular security, whether a Series will
realize gain or loss on the purchase of an option on an index depends upon
movements in the level of prices in the market generally or in an industry or
market segment rather than movements in the price of a particular security.
Accordingly, successful use by a Series of options on indices is subject to
Brinson Partners' ability to predict correctly the direction of movements in the
market generally or in a particular industry.  This requires different skills
and techniques than predicting changes in the prices of individual securities.

     Index prices may be distorted if trading of a substantial number of
securities included in the index is interrupted causing the trading of options
on that index to be halted.  If a trading halt occurred, a Series would not be
able to close out options which it had purchased and the Series may incur losses
if the underlying index moved adversely before trading resumed.  If a trading
halt occurred and restrictions prohibiting the exercise of options were imposed
through the close of trading on the last day before expiration, exercises on
that day would be settled on the basis of a closing index value that may not
reflect current price information for securities representing a substantial
portion of the value of the index.

     If a Series holds an index option and exercises it before final
determination of the closing index value for that day, it runs the risk that the
level of the underlying index may change before closing.  If 

                                       13
<PAGE>
 
such a change causes the exercised option to fall "out-of-the-money," the Series
will be required to pay the difference between the closing index value and the
exercise price of the option (times the applicable multiplier) to the assigned
writer. Although a Series may be able to minimize this risk by withholding
exercise instructions until just before the daily cutoff time or by selling
rather than exercising the option when the index level is close to the exercise
price, it may not be possible to eliminate this risk entirely because the cutoff
times for index options may be earlier than those fixed for other types of
options and may occur before definitive closing index values are announced.

RULE 144A AND ILLIQUID SECURITIES

     The Series may invest in securities that are exempt under Rule 144A from
the registration requirements of the 1933 Act. Those securities purchased under
Rule 144A are traded among qualified institutional investors.

     The Board has instructed Brinson Partners to consider the following factors
in determining the liquidity of a security purchased under Rule 144A: (i) the
frequency of trades and trading volume for the security; (ii) whether at least
three dealers are willing to purchase or sell the security and the number of
potential purchasers; (iii) whether at least two dealers are making a market in
the security; and (iv) the nature of the security and the nature of the
marketplace trades (e.g., the time needed to dispose of the security, the method
of soliciting offers and the mechanics of transfer). Although having delegated
the day-to-day functions, the Board will continue to monitor and periodically
review the Advisor's selection of Rule 144A securities, as well as the Advisor's
determinations as to their liquidity. Investing in securities under Rule 144A
could have the effect of increasing the level of a Series' illiquidity to the
extent that qualified institutional buyers become, for a time, uninterested in
purchasing these securities.  After the purchase of a security under Rule 144A,
however, the Board and Brinson Partners will continue to monitor the liquidity
of that security to ensure that each Series has no more than 15% of its net
assets in illiquid securities.

     The Series will limit investments in securities of issuers which the Series
are restricted from selling to the public without registration under the 1933
Act to no more than 15% of the Series' net assets, excluding restricted
securities eligible for resale pursuant to Rule 144A that have been determined
to be liquid pursuant to a policy and procedures adopted by the Trust's Board
which includes continuing oversight by the Board.

     If Brinson Partners determines that a security purchased in reliance on
Rule 144A which was previously determined to be liquid, is no longer liquid and,
as a result, the Series' holdings of illiquid securities exceed the Series' 15%
limit on investment in such securities, Brinson Partners will determine what
action shall be taken to ensure that the Series continue to adhere to such
limitation, including disposing of illiquid assets which may include such Rule
144A securities.

OTHER INVESTMENTS

     The Board may, in the future, authorize a Series to invest in securities
other than those listed in this SAI and in the Prospectuses, provided such
investment would be consistent with that Series' investment objective and that
it would not violate any fundamental investment policies or restrictions
applicable to that Series.

    
INVESTMENTS RELATING TO THE GLOBAL FUND, GLOBAL EQUITY FUND, U.S. BALANCED FUND,
U.S. EQUITY FUND, U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION EQUITY FUND, U.S. LARGE
CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND, U.S. SMALL CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND, GLOBAL (EX-
U.S.) EQUITY FUND AND EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND     

                                       14
<PAGE>
 
    
EQUITY SECURITIES     
    
     The Series may invest in a broad range of equity securities of U.S. and
non-U.S. issuers, including common stocks of companies or closed-end investment
companies, preferred stocks, debt securities convertible into or exchangeable
for common stock, securities such as warrants or rights that are convertible
into common stock and sponsored or unsponsored American, European and Global
depositary receipts ("Depositary Receipts"). The issuers of unsponsored
Depositary Receipts are not obligated to disclose material information in the
United States.  The Series, except for the U.S. Small Capitalization Growth
Fund, expect their U.S. equity investments to emphasize large  and intermediate
capitalization companies.  The U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund expects its
U.S. equity investments to emphasize small capitalization companies.  The Global
Fund and U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund may also invest in small
capitalization equity markets.  The equity markets in the non-U.S. component of
the Series will typically include available shares of larger capitalization
companies.  Capitalization levels are measured relative to specific markets,
thus large, intermediate and small capitalization ranges vary country by
country.  The Global Fund may invest in equity securities of companies
considered by the Advisor to be in their post-venture capital stage, or "post-
venture capital companies."  A post-venture capital company is a company that
has received venture capital financing either: (a) during the early stages of
the company's existence or the early stages of the development of a new product
or service, or (b) as part of a restructuring or recapitalization of the
company. The Global Fund may also invest in open-end investment companies
advised by Brinson Partners, in equity securities of issuers in emerging markets
and in securities with respect to which the return is derived from the equity
securities of issuers in emerging markets.

INVESTMENTS RELATING TO THE GLOBAL FUNDS, U.S LARGE CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND,
U.S. SMALL CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND, HIGH YIELD FUND, GLOBAL (EX-U.S.) EQUITY
FUND, EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND AND EMERGING MARKETS DEBT FUND

     The following discussion of strategies, techniques and policies applies
only to the Global Fund, Global Equity Fund, Global Bond Fund, U.S. Large
Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund, High Yield
Fund, Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund, Emerging Markets Equity Fund and Emerging
Markets Debt Fund.

FOREIGN SECURITIES

     Investors should recognize that investing in foreign issuers involves
certain considerations, including those set forth in the Series' Prospectuses,
which are not typically associated with investing in  U.S. issuers.  Since the
stocks of foreign companies are frequently denominated in foreign currencies,
and since the Series may temporarily hold uninvested reserves in bank deposits
in foreign currencies, the Series will be affected favorably or unfavorably by
changes in currency rates and in exchange control regulations and may incur
costs in connection with conversions between various currencies.  The investment
policies of the Series permit them to enter into forward foreign currency
exchange contracts, futures, options and interest rate swaps (in the case of the
Global Funds) in order to hedge portfolio holdings and commitments against
changes in the level of future currency rates.

          The Global Bond Fund, High Yield Fund, Emerging Markets Equity Fund
and Emerging Markets Debt Fund may invest in Eurodollar securities, which are
fixed income securities of a U.S. issuer or a foreign issuer that are issued
outside the United States.  Interest and dividends on Eurodollar securities are
payable in U.S. dollars.

     On January 1, 1999, the European Monetary Union (the "EMU") introduced a
new single currency, the Euro, which will replace the national currencies of
participating member nations. If the Series hold investments in nations with
currencies replaced by the Euro, the investment process, including trading,
foreign exchange, payments, settlements, cash accounts, custody and accounting,
will
                                       15
<PAGE>
 
be impacted. Although it is not possible to predict the impact of the Euro on
the Series, the transition and the elimination of currency risk among nations
participating in the EMU may change the economic environment and behavior of
investors, particularly in European markets.

     The adoption of the Euro does not reduce the currency risk presented by the
fluctuations in value of the U.S. dollar to other currencies and, in fact,
currency risk may be magnified.  Also, increased market volatility may result.
Additional risks that may result include the fact that European issuers in which
the Series invest may face substantial conversion costs, which may not be
accurately anticipated and may impact issuer profitability and creditworthiness.

     Brinson Partners has created an interdepartmental team to handle all Euro-
related changes to enable the Series to process transactions accurately and
completely with minimal disruption to business activities.  While there can be
no assurance that the Series will not be adversely affected, Brinson Partners
and the Trust's service providers are taking steps that they believe are
reasonably designed to address the Euro issue.

FORWARD FOREIGN CURRENCY CONTRACTS

     The Series may purchase or sell currencies and/or engage in forward foreign
currency transactions in order to expedite settlement of portfolio transactions
and to manage currency risk.

     Forward foreign currency contracts are traded in the inter-bank market
conducted directly between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and
their customers.  A forward contract generally has no deposit requirement and no
commissions are charged at any stage for trades.  The Series will account for
forward contracts by marking-to-market each day at current forward contract
values.

     A Series will only enter into forward contracts to sell, for a fixed amount
of U.S. dollars or other appropriate currency, an amount of foreign currency, to
the extent that the value of the short forward contract is covered by the
underlying value of securities denominated in the currency being sold.
Alternatively, when a Series enters into a forward contract to sell an amount of
foreign currency, the Series' custodian or sub-custodian will place Segregated
Assets in a segregated account of the Series in an amount not less than the
value of the Series' total assets committed to the consummation of such forward
contracts.  If the additional Segregated Assets placed in the segregated account
decline, additional cash or securities will be placed in the account on a daily
basis so that the value of the account will equal the amount of the Series'
commitments with respect to such contracts.

OPTIONS ON FOREIGN CURRENCIES

     The Series also may purchase and write put and call options on foreign
currencies (traded on U.S. and foreign exchanges or over-the-counter markets) to
manage the Series' exposure to changes in currency exchange rates.  The Series
may purchase and write options on foreign currencies for hedging purposes in a
manner similar to that in which futures contracts on foreign currencies, or
forward contracts, will be utilized.  For example, a decline in the dollar value
of a foreign currency in which portfolio securities are denominated will reduce
the dollar value of such securities, even if their value in the foreign currency
remains constant.  In order to protect against such diminutions in the value of
portfolio securities, the Series may purchase put options on the foreign
currency.  If the dollar price of the currency does decline, a Series will have
the right to sell such currency for a fixed amount in dollars and will thereby
offset, in whole or in part, the adverse effect on its portfolio which otherwise
would have resulted.

     Conversely, where a rise in the dollar value of a currency in which
securities to be acquired are denominated is projected, thereby increasing the
dollar price of such securities, the Series may purchase call options on such
currency.

                                       16
<PAGE>
 
     The purchase of such options could offset, at least partially, the effects
of the adverse movement in exchange rates.  As in the case of other types of
options, however, the benefit to the Series to be derived from purchases of
foreign currency options will be reduced by the amount of the premium and
related transaction costs.  In addition, where currency exchange rates do not
move in the direction or to the extent anticipated, a Series could sustain
losses on transactions in foreign currency options which would require it to
forego a portion or all of the benefits of advantageous changes in such rates.

     The Series may write options on foreign currencies for the same types of
hedging purposes.  For example, where a Series anticipates a decline in the
dollar value of foreign currency denominated securities due to adverse
fluctuations in exchange rates, it could, instead of purchasing a put option,
write a call option on the relevant currency.  If the expected decline occurs,
the option will most likely not be exercised, and the diminution in the value of
portfolio securities will be offset by the amount of the premium received.

     Similarly, instead of purchasing a call option to hedge against an
anticipated increase in the dollar cost of securities to be acquired, a Series
could write a put option on the relevant currency which, if rates move in the
manner projected, will expire unexercised and allow the Series to hedge such
increased cost up to the amount of the premium.  As in the case of other types
of options, however, the writing of a foreign currency option will constitute
only a partial hedge up to the amount of the premium, and only if rates move in
the expected direction.  If this does not occur, the option may be exercised and
the Series would be required to purchase or sell the underlying currency at a
loss which may not be offset by the amount of the premium.  Through the writing
of options on foreign currencies, a Series also may be required to forego all or
a portion of the benefit which might otherwise have been obtained from favorable
movements in exchange rates.

     The Series may write covered call options on foreign currencies.  A call
option written on a foreign currency by a Series is "covered" if the Series owns
the underlying foreign currency covered by the call or has an absolute and
immediate right to acquire that foreign currency without additional cash
consideration (or for additional cash consideration held in a segregated account
by the custodian bank) upon conversion or exchange of other foreign currency
held in its portfolio.  A call option is also covered if a Series has a call on
the same foreign currency and in the same principal amount as the call written
where the exercise price of the call held (a) is equal to or less than the
exercise price of the call written, or (b) is greater than the exercise price of
the call written if the difference is maintained by the Series in Segregated
Assets in a segregated account with its custodian bank.

     With respect to writing put options, at the time the put is written, a
Series will establish a segregated account with its custodian bank consisting of
Segregated Assets in an amount equal in value to the amount the Series will be
required to pay upon exercise of the put.  The account will be maintained until
the put is exercised, has expired, or the Series has purchased a closing put of
the same series as the one previously written.

SHORT SALES

     The U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth
Fund and High Yield Fund may from time to time sell securities short.  In the
event that the Advisor anticipates that the price of a security will decline, it
may sell the security short and borrow the same security from a broker or other
institution to complete the sale.  The Series will only enter into short sales
for hedging purposes.  The Series will incur a profit or a loss, depending upon
whether the market price of the security decreases or increases between the date
of the short sale and the date on which the Series must replace the borrowed
security.  All short sales will be fully collateralized and a Series will not
sell securities short if immediately after and as a result of the short sale,
the value of all securities sold short by the Series exceeds 25% of its total
assets.  Each Series will also limit short sales of any one issuer's securities
to 2% of its total assets and to 2% of any one class of the issuer's securities.
Short sales involve certain risks 

                                       17
<PAGE>
 
and special considerations. Possible losses from short sales may be unlimited,
whereas losses from direct purchases of securities are limited to the total
amount invested.

INVESTMENTS RELATING TO THE GLOBAL FUND, GLOBAL BOND FUND, U.S. BALANCED FUND,
U.S. BOND FUND, HIGH YIELD FUND, EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND AND EMERGING
MARKETS DEBT FUND

     The following discussion applies to the Global Fund, Global Bond Fund, U.S.
Balanced Fund, U.S. Bond Fund, High Yield Fund, Emerging Markets Equity Fund and
Emerging Markets Debt Fund.

LOWER RATED DEBT SECURITIES

     Fixed income securities rated lower than Baa by Moody's or BBB by S&P are
below investment grade and are considered to be of poor standing and
predominantly speculative. Such securities ("lower rated securities") are
commonly referred to as "junk bonds" and are subject to a substantial degree of
credit risk. Lower rated securities may be issued as a consequence of corporate
restructurings, such as leveraged buy-outs, mergers, acquisitions, debt
recapitalizations or similar events. Also, lower rated securities are often
issued by smaller, less creditworthy companies or by highly leveraged (indebted)
firms, which are generally less able than more financially stable firms to make
scheduled payments of interest and principal. The risks posed by securities
issued under such circumstances are substantial.

     In the past, the high yields from lower rated securities have more than
compensated for the higher default rates on such securities. However, there can
be no assurance that diversification will protect the Series from widespread
bond defaults brought about by a sustained economic downturn, or that yields
will continue to offset default rates on lower rated securities in the future.
Issuers of these securities are often highly leveraged, so that their ability to
service their debt obligations during an economic downturn or during sustained
periods of rising interest rates may be impaired.  In addition, such issuers may
not have more traditional methods of financing available to them and may be
unable to repay debt at maturity by refinancing.  The risk of loss due to
default by the issuer is significantly greater for the holders of low-grade
securities because such securities may be unsecured and may be subordinated to
other creditors of the issuer.  Further, an economic recession may result in
default levels with respect to such securities in excess of historic averages.

     The value of lower-rated securities will be influenced not only by changing
interest rates, but also by the bond market's perception of credit quality and
the outlook for economic growth.  When economic conditions appear to be
deteriorating, lower rated securities may decline in market value due to
investors' heightened concern over credit quality, regardless of prevailing
interest rates.

     Especially at such times, trading in the secondary market for lower rated
securities may become thin and market liquidity may be significantly reduced.
Even under normal conditions, the market for lower rated securities may be less
liquid than the market for investment grade corporate bonds. There are fewer
securities dealers in the high yield market and purchasers of lower rated
securities are concentrated among a smaller group of securities dealers and
institutional investors. In periods of reduced market liquidity, lower rated
securities prices may become more volatile and the Series' ability to dispose of
particular issues when necessary to meet the Series' liquidity needs or in
response to a specific economic event such as a deterioration in the
creditworthiness of the issuer may be adversely affected.

     Low-grade securities frequently have call or redemption features that would
permit an issuer to repurchase the security from the Series.  If a call were
exercised by the issuer during a period of declining interest rates, the Series
likely would have to replace such called security with a lower yielding
security, thus decreasing the net investment income to the Series and any
dividends to investors.

     Besides credit and liquidity concerns, prices for lower rated securities
may be affected by legislative and regulatory developments.  For example, from
time to time, Congress has considered 

                                       18
<PAGE>
 
legislation to restrict or eliminate the corporate tax deduction for interest
payments or to regulate corporate restructurings such as takeovers or mergers.
Such legislation may significantly depress the prices of outstanding lower rated
securities. A description of various corporate debt ratings appears in Appendix
A to this SAI.

     Securities issued by foreign issuers rated below investment grade entail
greater risks than higher rated securities, including risk of untimely interest
and principal payment, default, price volatility and may present problems of
liquidity and valuation.  The Emerging Markets Equity Fund and the Emerging
Markets Debt Fund do not intend to limit investments in low-grade securities.

PAY-IN-KIND BONDS

     The High Yield Fund, the Emerging Markets Equity Fund and the Emerging
Markets Debt Fund may invest in pay-in-kind bonds. Pay-in-kind bonds are
securities that pay interest through the issuance of additional bonds. The
Series will be deemed to receive interest over the life of such bonds and may be
treated for federal income tax purposes as if interest were paid on a current
basis, although no cash interest payments are received by the Series until the
cash payment date or until the bonds mature.

CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES (ALSO FOR U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND AND U.S.
SMALL CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND)

     The Series may invest in convertible securities which generally offer lower
interest or dividend yields than non-convertible debt securities of similar
quality.  The value of convertible securities may reflect changes in the value
of the underlying common stock.  Convertible securities entail less credit risk
than the issuer's common stock because they rank senior to common stock.
Convertible securities entitle the holder to exchange the securities for a
specified number of shares of common stock, usually of the same company, at
specified prices within a certain period of time and to receive interest or
dividends until the holder elects to convert.  The provisions of any convertible
security determine its ranking in a company's capital structure.  In the case of
subordinated convertible debentures, the holder's claims on assets and earnings
are subordinated to the claims of other creditors and are senior to the claims
of preferred and common shareholders.  In the case of preferred stock and
convertible preferred stock, the holder's claim on assets and earnings are
subordinated to the claims of all creditors but are senior to the claims of
common shareholders.

WHEN-ISSUED SECURITIES (ALSO FOR U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND AND U.S.
SMALL CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND)

     The Series may purchase securities offered on a "when-issued" or "forward
delivery" basis.  When so offered, the price, which is generally expressed in
yield terms, is fixed at the time the commitment to purchase is made, but
delivery and payment for the when-issued or forward delivery securities take
place at a later date.  During the period between purchase and settlement, no
payment is made by the purchaser to the issuer and no interest on the when-
issued or forward delivery security accrues to the purchaser.  While when-issued
or forward delivery securities may be sold prior to the settlement date, it is
intended that a Series will purchase such securities with the purpose of
actually acquiring them unless a sale appears desirable for investment reasons.
At the time a Series makes the commitment to purchase a security on a when-
issued or forward delivery basis, it will record the transaction and reflect the
value of the security in determining its net asset value.  The market value of
when-issued or forward delivery securities may be more or less than the purchase
price.  The Advisor does not believe that a Series' net asset value or income
will be adversely affected by its purchase of securities on a when-issued or
forward delivery basis.  The Series will establish a segregated account in which
it will maintain Segregated Assets equal in value to commitments for when-issued
or forward delivery securities.  The Segregated Assets maintained by the Series
with respect to any when-issued or 

                                       19
<PAGE>
 
forward delivery securities shall be liquid, unencumbered and marked-to-market
daily, and such Segregated Assets shall be maintained in accordance with
pertinent SEC positions.

MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES AND MORTGAGE PASS-THROUGH SECURITIES

     The Series may also invest in mortgage-backed securities, which are
interests in pools of mortgage loans, including mortgage loans made by savings
and loan institutions, mortgage bankers, commercial banks and others.  Pools of
mortgage loans are assembled as securities for sale to investors by various
governmental, government-related and private organizations as further described
below.  The Series may also invest in debt securities which are secured with
collateral consisting of mortgage-backed securities (see "Collateralized
Mortgage Obligations") and in other types of mortgage-related securities.

     The timely payment of principal and interest on mortgage-backed securities
issued or guaranteed by the Government National Mortgage Association ("GNMA") is
backed by GNMA and the full faith and credit of the U.S. government.  These
guarantees, however, do not apply to the market value of Series shares.  Also,
securities issued by GNMA and other mortgage-backed securities may be purchased
at a premium over the maturity value of the underlying mortgages.  This premium
is not guaranteed and would be lost if prepayment occurs. Mortgage-backed
securities issued by U.S. government agencies or instrumentalities other than
GNMA are not "full faith and credit" obligations.  Certain obligations, such as
those issued by the Federal Home Loan Bank are supported by the issuer's right
to borrow from the U.S. Treasury, while others such as those issued by Fannie
Mae, formerly known as the Federal National Mortgage Association ("FNMA"), are
supported only by the credit of the issuer.  Unscheduled or early payments on
the underlying mortgages may shorten the securities' effective maturities and
reduce returns.  The Series may agree to purchase or sell these securities with
payment and delivery taking place at a future date.  A decline in interest rates
may lead to a faster rate of repayment of the underlying mortgages and expose
the Series to a lower rate of return upon reinvestment.  To the extent that such
mortgage-backed securities are held by a Series, the prepayment right of
mortgagors may limit the increase in net asset value of the Series because the
value of the mortgage-backed securities held by the Series may not appreciate as
rapidly as the price of noncallable debt securities.

     A decline in interest rates may lead to a faster rate of repayment of the
underlying mortgages and expose a Series to a lower rate of return upon
reinvestment.  To the extent that such mortgage-backed securities are held by a
Series, the prepayment right will tend to limit to some degree the increase in
net asset value of the Series because the value of the mortgage-backed
securities held by the Series may not appreciate as rapidly as the price of
noncallable debt securities.

     For federal tax purposes other than diversification under Subchapter M,
mortgage-backed securities are not considered to be separate securities but
rather "grantor trusts" conveying to the holder an individual interest in each
of the mortgages constituting the pool.

     Interests in pools of mortgage-backed securities differ from other forms of
debt securities, which normally provide for periodic payment of interest in
fixed amounts with principal payments at maturity or specified call dates.
Instead, these securities provide a monthly payment which consists of both
interest and principal payments.  In effect, these payments are a "pass-through"
of the monthly payments made by the individual borrowers on their mortgage
loans, net of any fees paid to the issuer or guarantor of such securities.
Additional payments are caused by repayments of principal resulting from the
sale of the underlying property, refinancing or foreclosure, net of fees or
costs which may be incurred.  Some mortgage-backed securities (such as
securities issued by the GNMA) are described as "modified pass-through."  These
securities entitle the holder to receive all interest and principal payments
owed on the mortgage pool, net of certain fees, at the scheduled payments dates
regardless of whether or not the mortgagor actually makes the payment.

     Any discount enjoyed on the purchases of a pass-through type mortgage-
backed security will likely constitute market discount.  As a Series receives
principal payments, it will be required to treat as 

                                       20
<PAGE>
 
ordinary income an amount equal to the lesser of the amount of the payment or
the "accrued market discount." Market discount is to be accrued either under a
constant rate method or a proportional method. Pass-through type mortgage-backed
securities purchased at a premium to face will be subject to a similar rule
requiring recognition of an offset to ordinary interest income, an amount of
premium attributable to the receipt of principal. The amount of premium
recovered is to be determined using a method similar to that in place for market
discount. A Series may elect to accrue market discount or amortize premium
notwithstanding the amount of principal received but such election will apply to
all bonds held and thereafter acquired unless permission is granted by the
Commissioner of the Internal Revenue Service to change such method.

     The principal governmental guarantor of mortgage-related securities is
GNMA, which is a wholly-owned U. S. government corporation within the Department
of Housing and Urban Development.  GNMA is authorized to guarantee, with the
full faith and credit of the U.S. government, the timely payment of principal
and interest on securities issued by institutions approved by GNMA (such as
savings and loan institutions, commercial banks and mortgage bankers) and backed
by pools of  mortgages which are insured by the Federal Housing Authority or
guaranteed by the Veterans Administration.  These guarantees, however, do not
apply to the market value or yield of mortgage-backed securities or to the value
of Series shares.  Also, GNMA securities often are purchased at a premium over
the maturity value of the underlying mortgages.  This premium is not guaranteed
and should be viewed as an economic offset to interest to be earned.  If
prepayments occur, less interest will be earned and the value of the premium
paid will be lost.

     Government-related guarantors (i.e., not backed by the full faith and
credit of the U.S. government) include FNMA and the Federal Home Loan Mortgage
Corporation ("FHLMC").  FNMA is a government-sponsored corporation owned
entirely by private stockholders.  It is subject to general regulation of the
Secretary of Housing and Urban Development.  FNMA purchases conventional (i.e.,
not insured or guaranteed by any government agency) mortgages from a list of
approved seller/servicers which include state and federally chartered savings
and loan associations, mutual savings banks, commercial banks and credit unions
and mortgage bankers.  Pass-through securities issued by FNMA are guaranteed as
to timely payment of principal and interest by FNMA but are not backed by the
full faith and credit of the U.S. government.

     FHLMC is a corporate instrumentality of the U.S. government and was created
by Congress in 1970 for the purpose of increasing the availability of mortgage
credit for residential housing.  Its stock is owned by the twelve Federal Home
Loan Banks.  FHLMC issues Participation Certificates ("PCs") which represent
interests in conventional mortgages from FHLMC's national portfolio.  FHLMC
guarantees the timely payment of interest and ultimate collection of principal,
but PCs are not backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government.

     Commercial banks, savings and loan institutions, private mortgage insurance
companies, mortgage bankers and other secondary market issuers also create pass-
through pools of conventional mortgage loans.  Such issuers may, in addition, be
the originators and/or servicers of the underlying mortgage loans as well as the
guarantors of the mortgage-related securities.  Pools created by such non-
governmental issuers generally offer a higher rate of interest than government
and government-related pools because there are no direct or indirect government
or agency guarantees of payments.  However, timely payment of interest and
principal of these pools may be supported by various forms of insurance or
guarantees, including individual loan, title, pool and hazard insurance and
letters of credit.  The insurance guarantees are issued by governmental
entities, private insurers and the mortgage poolers.  Such insurance and
guarantees and the creditworthiness of the issuers thereof will be considered in
determining whether a mortgage-related security meets a Series' investment
quality standards.  There can be no assurance that the private insurers or
guarantors can meet their obligations under the insurance policies or guarantee
or guarantees, even if through an examination of the loan experience and
practices of the originators/servicers and poolers, the Advisor determines that
the securities meet the Series' quality 

                                       21
<PAGE>
 
standards. Although the market for such securities is becoming increasingly
liquid, securities issued by certain private organizations may not be readily
marketable.

COLLATERALIZED MORTGAGE OBLIGATIONS ("CMOS") AND REAL ESTATE MORTGAGE INVESTMENT
CONDUITS ("REMICS")

     A CMO is a debt security on which interest and prepaid principal are paid,
in most cases, semi-annually.  CMOs may be collateralized by whole mortgage
loans but are more typically collateralized by portfolios of mortgage pass-
through securities guaranteed by GNMA, FHLMC, or FNMA and their income streams.
Privately-issued CMOs tend to be more sensitive to interest rates than
Government-issued CMOs.

     CMOs are structured into multiple classes, each bearing a different stated
maturity.  Actual maturity and average life will depend upon the prepayment
experience of the collateral.  CMOs provide for a modified form of call
protection through a de facto breakdown of the underlying pool of mortgages
according to how quickly the loans are repaid.  Monthly payments of principal
received from the pool of underlying mortgages, including prepayments, is first
returned to investors holding the shortest maturity class.  Investors holding
the longer maturity classes receive principal only after the first class has
been retired.  An investor is partially guarded against a sooner than desired
return of principal because of the sequential payments.

     In a typical CMO transaction, a corporation issues multiple series (e.g.,
A, B, C, Z) of CMO bonds ("Bonds").  Proceeds of the Bond offering are used to
purchase mortgages or mortgage pass-through certificates ("Collateral").  The
Collateral is pledged to a third party trustee as security for the Bonds.
Principal and interest payments from the Collateral are used to pay principal on
the Bonds in the order A, B, C, Z.  The Series A, B and C Bonds all bear current
interest.  Interest on the Series Z Bond is accrued and added to principal and a
like amount is paid as principal on the Series A, B, or C Bond currently being
paid off.  When the Series A, B and C Bonds are paid in full, interest and
principal on the Series Z Bond begins to be paid currently.  With some CMOs, the
issuer serves as a conduit to allow loan originators (primarily builders or
savings and loan associations) to borrow against their loan portfolios.  REMICs
are private entities formed for the purpose of holding a fixed pool of mortgages
secured by an interest in real property.  REMICs are similar to CMOs in that
they issue multiple classes of securities.

     Most if not all newly-issued debt securities backed by pools of real estate
mortgages will be issued as regular and residual interests in REMICs because, as
of January 1, 1992, new CMOs which do not make REMIC elections will be treated
as "taxable mortgage pools," a wholly undesirable tax result.  Under certain
transition rules, CMOs in existence on December 31, 1991 are unaffected by this
change.  The Series will purchase only regular interests in REMICs. REMIC
regular interests are treated as debt of the REMIC and income/discount thereon
must be accounted for on the "catch-up method," using a reasonable prepayment
assumption under the original issue discount rules of the Code.

     CMOs and REMICs issued by private entities are not government securities
and are not directly guaranteed by any government agency.  They are secured by
the underlying collateral of the private issuer.  Yields on privately-issued
CMOs, as described above, have been historically higher than yields on CMOs
issued or guaranteed by U.S. government agencies. However, the risk of loss due
to default on such instruments is higher since they are not guaranteed by the
U.S. government.  Such instruments also tend to be more sensitive to interest
rates than U.S. government-issued CMOs.  The Series will not invest in
subordinated privately-issued CMOs.  For federal income tax purposes, the Series
will be required to accrue income on CMOs and REMIC regular interests using the
"catch-up" method, with an aggregate prepayment assumption.

OTHER MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES

                                       22
<PAGE>
 
     The Advisor expects that governmental, government-related or private
entities may create mortgage loan pools and other mortgage-related securities
offering mortgage pass-through and mortgage-collateralized investments in
addition to those described above.  The mortgages underlying these securities
may include alternative mortgage instruments, that is, mortgage instruments
whose principal or interest payments may vary or whose terms to maturity may
differ from customary long-term fixed rate mortgages.  As new types of mortgage-
related securities are developed and offered to investors, the Advisor will,
consistent with a Series' investment objective, policies and quality standards,
consider making investments in such new types of mortgage-related securities.
The Advisor will not purchase any such other mortgage-backed securities until
the Series' Prospectuses and this SAI have been supplemented.

ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES (ALSO FOR U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND AND U.S.
SMALL CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND)

     The Series may invest a portion of their assets in debt obligations known
as "asset-backed securities." Asset-backed securities are securities that
represent a participation in, or are secured by and payable from, a stream of
payments generated by particular assets, most often a pool or pools of similar
assets (e.g., receivables on home equity and credit loans and receivables
regarding automobile, credit card, mobile home and recreational vehicle loans,
wholesale dealer floor plans and leases).  The High Yield Fund will not invest
in asset-backed securities with remaining effective maturities of less than
thirteen months.

     Such receivables are securitized in either a pass-through or a pay-through
structure.  Pass-through securities provide investors with an income stream
consisting of both principal and interest payments in respect of the receivables
in the underlying pool.  Pay-through asset-backed securities are debt
obligations issued usually by a special purpose entity, which are collateralized
by the various receivables and in which the payments on the underlying
receivables provide that the Series pay the debt service on the debt obligations
issued.  The Series may invest in these and other types of asset-backed
securities that may be developed in the future.

     The credit quality of these securities depends primarily upon the quality
of the underlying assets and the level of credit support and/or enhancement
provided. Such asset-backed securities are subject to the same prepayment risks
as mortgage-backed securities.  For federal income tax purposes, the Series will
be required to accrue income on pay-through asset-backed securities using the
"catch-up" method, with an aggregate prepayment assumption.

     The credit quality of most asset-backed securities depends primarily on the
credit quality of the assets underlying such securities, how well the entity
issuing the security is insulated from the credit risk of the originator or any
other affiliated entities, and the amount and quality of any credit support
provided to the securities.  The rate of principal payment on asset-backed
securities generally depends on the rate of principal payments received on the
underlying assets which in turn may be affected by a variety of economic and
other factors.  As a result, the yield on any asset-backed security is difficult
to predict with precision and actual yield to maturity may be more or less than
the anticipated yield to maturity. Asset-backed securities may be classified as
"pass-through certificates" or "collateralized obligations."

     Asset-backed securities are often backed by a pool of assets representing
the obligations of a number of different parties. To lessen the effect of
failures by obligors on underlying assets to make payment, such securities may
contain elements of credit support.  Such credit support falls into two
categories:  (i) liquidity protection; and (ii) protection against losses
resulting from ultimate default by an obligor on the underlying assets.
Liquidity protection refers to the provision of advances, generally by the
entity administering the pool of assets, to ensure that the receipt of payments
due on the underlying pool is timely.  Protection against losses resulting from
ultimate default enhances the likelihood of payments of the obligations on at
least some of the assets in the pool.  Such protection may be provided through
guarantees, insurance policies or letters of credit obtained by the issuer or
sponsor from third 

                                       23
<PAGE>
 
parties, through various means of structuring the transaction or through a
combination of such approaches. The Series will not pay any additional fees for
such credit support, although the existence of credit support may increase the
price of a security.

     Due to the shorter maturity of the collateral backing such securities,
there is less of a risk of substantial prepayment than with mortgage-backed
securities. Such asset-backed securities do, however, involve certain risks not
associated with mortgage-backed securities, including the risk that security
interests cannot be adequately, or in many cases, ever, established.  In
addition, with respect to credit card receivables, a number of state and federal
consumer credit laws give debtors the right to set off certain amounts owed on
the credit cards, thereby reducing the outstanding balance.  In the case of
automobile receivables, there is a risk that the holders may not have either a
proper or first security interest in all of the obligations backing such
receivables due to the large number of vehicles involved in a typical issuance
and technical requirements under state laws.  Therefore, recoveries on
repossessed collateral may not always be available to support payments on the
securities.

     Examples of credit support arising out of the structure of the transaction
include "senior-subordinated securities" (multiple class securities with one or
more classes subordinate to other classes as to the payment of principal thereof
and interest thereon, with the result that defaults on the underlying assets are
borne first by the holders of the subordinated class), creation of "reserve
funds" (where cash or investments, sometimes funded from a portion of the
payments on the underlying assets, are held in reserve against future losses)
and "over collateralization" (where the scheduled payments on, or the principal
amount of, the underlying assets exceeds that required to make payments of the
securities and pay any servicing or other fees).  The degree of credit support
provided for each issue is generally based on historical information respecting
the level of credit information respecting the level of credit risk associated
with the underlying assets.  Delinquencies or losses in excess of those
anticipated could adversely affect the return on an investment in such issue.

                                       24
<PAGE>
 
ZERO COUPON AND DELAYED INTEREST SECURITIES

     The Series may invest in zero coupon or delayed interest securities which
pay no cash income until maturity or a specified date when the securities begin
paying current interest (the "cash payment date") and are sold at substantial
discounts from their value at maturity. When held to maturity or cash payment
date, the entire income of such securities, which consists of accretion of
discount, comes from the difference between the purchase price and their value
at maturity or cash payment date. The discount varies depending on the time
remaining until maturity or cash payment date, prevailing interest rates,
liquidity of the security and the perceived credit quality of the issuer. The
discount, in the absence of financial difficulties of the issuer, decreases as
the final maturity or cash payment date of the security approaches. The market
prices of zero coupon and delayed interest securities are generally more
volatile and more likely to respond to changes in interest rates than the market
prices of securities having similar maturities and credit qualities that pay
interest periodically. Current federal income tax law requires that a holder of
a zero coupon security report as income each year the portion of the original
issue discount on such security (other than tax-exempt original issue discount
from a zero coupon security) that accrues that year, even though the holder
receives no cash payments of interest during the year. The Series will be
required to distribute such income to shareholders to comply with Subchapter M
of the Code and avoid excise taxes, even though the Series have not received any
cash from the issue.

     Zero coupon securities are subject to greater market value fluctuations
from changing interest rates than debt obligations of comparable maturities
which make current distributions of interest (cash).  Zero coupon convertible
securities offer the opportunity for capital appreciation as increases (or
decreases) in market value of such securities closely follow the movements in
the market value of the underlying common stock.  Zero coupon convertible
securities generally are expected to be less volatile than the underlying common
stocks as they usually are issued with short maturities (15 years or less) and
are issued with options and/or redemption features exercisable by the holder of
the obligation entitling the holder to redeem the obligation and receive a
defined cash payment.

     Zero coupon securities include securities issued directly by the U.S.
Treasury, and U.S. Treasury bonds or notes and their unmatured interest coupons
and receipts for their underlying principal ("coupons") which have been
separated by their holder, typically a custodian bank or investment brokerage
firm.  A holder will separate the interest coupons from the underlying principal
(the "corpus") of the U.S. Treasury security.  A number of securities firms and
banks have stripped the interest coupons and receipts and then resold them in
custodial receipt programs with a number of different names, including "Treasury
Income Growth Receipts" ("TIGRS") and Certificate of Accrual on Treasuries
("CATS"). The underlying U.S. Treasury bonds and notes themselves are held in
book-entry form at the Federal Reserve Bank or, in the case of bearer securities
(i.e., unregistered securities which are owned ostensibly by the bearer or
holder thereof), in trust on behalf of the owners thereof.  Counsel to the
underwriters of these certificates or other evidences of ownership of the U.S.
Treasury securities has stated that for federal tax and securities purposes, in
its opinion, purchasers of such certificates, such as the Series, most likely
will be deemed the beneficial holder of the underlying U.S. government
securities. The Series understand that the staff of the SEC no longer considers
such privately stripped obligations to be U.S. government securities, as defined
in the Act; therefore, each Series intends to adhere to this staff position and
will not treat such privately stripped obligations to be U.S. government
securities for the purpose of determining if the Series is "diversified," or for
any other purpose, under the Act.

     The U.S. Treasury has facilitated transfers of ownership of zero coupon
securities by accounting separately for the beneficial ownership of particular
interest coupon and corpus payments on Treasury securities through the Federal
Reserve book-entry record-keeping system.  The Federal Reserve program as
established by the U.S. Treasury Department is known as "STRIPS" or "Separate
Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities."  Under the STRIPS
program, a Series will be able to have its beneficial ownership of zero coupon
securities recorded directly in the book-entry record-keeping system in lieu of
having to hold certificates or other evidences of ownership of the underlying
U.S. Treasury securities.

                                       25
<PAGE>
 
     When U.S. Treasury obligations have been stripped of their unmatured
interest coupons by the holder, the principal or corpus is sold at a deep
discount because the buyer receives only the right to receive a future fixed
payment on the security and does not receive any rights to periodic interest
(cash) payments.  Once stripped or separated, the corpus and coupons may be sold
separately.  Typically, the coupons are sold separately or grouped with other
coupons with like maturity dates and sold in such bundled form.  Purchasers of
stripped obligations acquire, in effect, discount obligations that are
economically identical to the zero coupon securities that the U.S. Treasury
sells itself.  These stripped securities are also treated as zero coupon
securities with original issue discount for tax purposes.

INVESTMENTS RELATING TO THE GLOBAL FUND, HIGH YIELD FUND, EMERGING MARKETS
EQUITY FUND AND EMERGING MARKETS DEBT FUND

EMERGING MARKETS INVESTMENTS

     The Global Fund may invest up to 10% of its assets, and the Emerging
Markets Equity Fund and Emerging Markets Debt Fund may invest substantially all
of their assets, in equity and debt securities of emerging market issuers, or
securities with respect to which the return is derived from the equity or debt
securities of issuers in emerging markets.  The High Yield Fund may invest up to
25% of its assets in securities of foreign issuers, which may include securities
of issuers in emerging markets.  The Series may invest in equity securities of
issuers in emerging markets, or securities with respect to which the return is
derived from the equity securities of issuers in emerging markets.  The Series
also may invest in fixed income securities of emerging market issuers, including
government and government-related entities (including participation in loans
between governments and financial institutions), and of entities organized to
restructure outstanding debt of such issuers.  The Series also may invest in
debt securities of corporate issuers in developing countries.

     The Series' investments in emerging market government and government-
related securities may consist of: (i) debt securities or obligations issued or
guaranteed by governments, governmental agencies or instrumentalities and
political subdivisions located in emerging countries (including participation in
loans between governments and financial institutions), (ii) debt securities or
obligations issued by government owned, controlled or sponsored entities located
in emerging countries and (iii) interests in issuers organized and operated for
the purpose of restructuring the investment characteristics of instruments
issued by any of the entities described above.

     The Series' investments in the fixed income securities of emerging market
issuers may include investments in Brady Bonds, Structured Securities, Loan
Participation and Assignments (as such capitalized terms are defined below), and
certain non-publicly traded securities.

     The High Yield Fund, the Emerging Markets Equity Fund and the Emerging
Markets Debt Fund may invest in Brady Bonds, which are securities created
through the exchange of existing commercial bank loans to public and private
entities in certain emerging markets for new bonds in connection with debt
restructurings under a debt restructuring plan introduced by former U.S.
Secretary of the Treasury, Nicholas F. Brady (the "Brady Plan"). Brady Plan debt
restructurings have been implemented to date in Argentina, Bulgaria, Brazil,
Costa Rica, Jordan, Mexico, Nigeria, the Philippines, Poland, Uruguay, Panama,
Peru and Venezuela.  Brady Bonds have been issued only in recent years, and for
that reason do not have a very long payment history.  Brady Bonds may be
collateralized or uncollateralized, are issued in various currencies (but
primarily the U.S. dollar), and are actively traded in over-the-counter
secondary markets.  Dollar-denominated, collateralized Brady Bonds, which may be
fixed-rate bonds or floating-rate bonds, are generally collateralized in full as
to principal by U.S. Treasury zero coupon bonds having the same maturity as the
bonds.

     Brady Bonds are often viewed as having three or four valuation components:
the collateralized repayment of principal at final maturity; the collateralized
interest payments; the uncollateralized interest 

                                       26
<PAGE>
 
payments; and any uncollateralized repayment of principal at maturity (these
uncollateralized amounts constitute the "residual risk"). In light of the
residual risk of Brady Bonds and the history of defaults of countries issuing
Brady Bonds with respect to commercial bank loans by public and private
entities, investments in Brady Bonds may be viewed as speculative. There can be
no assurance that the Brady Bonds in which the Series invests will not be
subject to restructuring arrangements or to requests for a new credit which may
cause the Series to suffer a loss of interest or principal in any of its
holdings.

     The High Yield Fund, the Emerging Markets Equity Fund and the Emerging
Markets Debt Fund may invest a portion of their assets in entities organized and
operated solely for the purpose of restructuring the investment characteristics
of sovereign debt obligations.  This type of restructuring involves the deposit
with, or purchase by, an entity, such as a corporation or trust, of specified
instruments (such as commercial bank loans or Brady Bonds) and the issuance by
that entity of one or more classes of securities ("Structured Securities")
backed by, or representing interests in, the underlying instruments.  The cash
flow of the underlying instruments may be apportioned among the newly issued
Structured Securities to create securities with different investment
characteristics, such as varying maturities, payment priorities and interest
rate provisions, and the extent of the payments made with respect to Structured
Securities is dependent on the extent of the cash flow on the underlying
instruments.  Because Structured Securities of the type in which the Series
anticipate investing typically involve no credit enhancement, their credit risk
generally will be equivalent to that of the underlying instruments.  The Series
are permitted to invest in a class of Structured Securities that is either
subordinated or unsubordinated to the right of payment of another class.
Subordinated Structured Securities are typically sold in private placement
transactions, and there currently is no active trading market for Structured
Securities.  Thus, investments by a Series in Structured Securities will be
limited by the Series' prohibition on investing more than 15% of its net assets
in illiquid securities.

     The High Yield Fund, the Emerging Markets Equity Fund and the Emerging
Markets Debt Fund may invest in fixed rate and floating rate loans ("Loans")
arranged through private negotiations between an issuer of sovereign debt
obligations and one or more financial institutions ("Lenders").  The Series'
investments in Loans are expected in most instances to be in the form of a
participation in loans ("Participation") and assignments of all or a portion of
Loans ("Assignments") from third parties.  The Series will have the right to
receive payments of principal, interest and any fees to which they are entitled
only from the Lender selling the Participation and only upon receipt by the
Lender of the payments from the borrower.  In the event of the insolvency of the
Lender selling a Participation, the Series may be treated as a general creditor
of the Lender and may not benefit from any set-off between the Lender and the
borrower.  Certain Participations may be structured in a manner designed to
avoid purchasers of Participations being subject to the credit risk of the
Lender with respect to the Participations.  Even under such a structure, in the
event of the Lender's insolvency, the Lender's servicing of the Participation
may be delayed and the assignability of the Participation may be impaired.  A
Series will acquire the Participations only if the Lender interpositioned
between the Series and the borrower is determined by the Advisor to be
creditworthy.

     When a Series purchases Assignments from Lenders, it will acquire direct
rights against the borrower on the Loan. However, because Assignments are
arranged through private negotiations between potential assignees and potential
assignors, the rights and obligations acquired by the Series as the purchaser of
an Assignment may differ from, and be more limited than, those held by the
assigning Lender.

     The Series also may invest in securities that are neither listed on a stock
exchange nor traded over-the-counter, including privately placed securities and
limited partnerships.  Investing in such unlisted emerging market equity
securities, including investments in new and early stage companies, may involve
a high degree of business and financial risk that can result in substantial
losses.  As a result of the absence of a public trading market for these
securities, they may be less liquid than publicly traded securities.

                                       27
<PAGE>
 
     The Series' investments in emerging market securities will at all times be
limited by the Series' prohibition on investing more than 15% of its net assets
in illiquid securities.

RISKS OF INVESTING IN EMERGING MARKETS

     There are additional risks inherent in investing in less developed
countries which are applicable to the Global Fund, High Yield Fund, Emerging
Markets Equity Fund and Emerging Markets Debt Fund.  The Series consider a
country to be an "emerging market" if it is defined as an emerging or developing
economy by any one of the following:  the International Bank for Reconstruction
and Development (i.e., the World Bank), the International Finance Corporation,
or the United Nations or its authorities.  An emerging market security is a
security issued by a government or other issuer that, in the opinion of the
Advisor, has one or more of the following characteristics:  (i) the principal
trading market of the security is an emerging market; (ii) the primary revenue
of the issuer (at least 50%) is generated from goods produced or sold,
investments made, or services performed in an emerging market country; or (iii)
at least 50% of the assets of the issuer are situated in emerging market
countries.

     Compared to the United States and other developed countries, emerging
countries may have relatively unstable governments, economies based on only a
few industries, and securities markets that trade only a small number of
securities and employ settlement procedures different from those used in the
United States. Prices on these exchanges tend to be volatile and, in the past,
securities in these countries have offered greater potential for gain (as well
as loss) than securities of companies located in developed countries.  Further,
investments by foreign investors are subject to a variety of restrictions in
many emerging countries.  Countries such as those in which the Series may invest
have historically experienced and may continue to experience, high rates of
inflation, high interest rates, exchange rate fluctuations or currency
depreciation, large amounts of external debt, balance of payments and trade
difficulties and extreme poverty and unemployment.  Additional factors which may
influence the ability or willingness to service debt include, but are not
limited to, a country's cash flow situation, the availability of sufficient
foreign exchange on the date a payment is due, the relative size of its debt
service burden to the economy as a whole, its government's policy towards the
International Monetary Fund, the World Bank and other international agencies and
the political constraints to which a government debtor may be subject.

     The ability of a foreign government or government-related issuer to make
timely and ultimate payments on its external debt obligations will be strongly
influenced by the issuer's balance of payments, including export performance,
its access to international credits and investments, fluctuations in interest
rates and the extent of its foreign reserves.  A country whose exports are
concentrated in a few commodities or whose economy depends on certain strategic
imports could be vulnerable to fluctuations in international prices of these
commodities or imports.  To the extent that a country receives payment for its
exports in currencies other than dollars, its ability to make debt payments
denominated in dollars could be adversely affected.  If a foreign government or
government-related issuer cannot generate sufficient earnings from foreign trade
to service its external debt, it may need to depend on continuing loans and aid
from foreign governments, commercial banks, and multilateral organizations, and
inflows of foreign investment.  The commitment on the part of these foreign
governments, multilateral organizations and others to make such disbursements
may be conditioned on the government's implementation of economic reforms and/or
economic performance and the timely service of its obligations.  Failure to
implement such reforms, achieve such levels of economic performance or repay
principal or interest when due may curtail the willingness of such third parties
to lend funds, which may further impair the issuer's ability or willingness to
service its debts in a timely manner.  The cost of servicing external debt will
also generally be adversely affected by rising international interest rates,
because many external debt obligations bear interest at rates which are adjusted
based upon international interest rates.  The ability to service external debt
will also depend on the level of the relevant government's international
currency reserves and its access to foreign exchange.  Currency devaluations may
affect the ability of a governmental issuer to obtain sufficient foreign
exchange to service its external debt.

                                       28
<PAGE>
 
     As a result of the foregoing, a governmental issuer may default on its
obligations. If such a default occurs, the Series may have limited effective
legal recourse against the issuer and/or guarantor. Remedies must, in some
cases, be pursued in the courts of the defaulting country itself, and the
ability of the holder of foreign government and government-related debt
securities to obtain recourse may be subject to the political climate in the
relevant country. In addition, no assurance can be given that the holders of
commercial bank debt will not contest payments to the holders of other foreign
government and government-related debt obligations in the event of default under
their commercial bank loan agreements.

     The issuers of the government and government-related debt securities in
which the Series expect to invest have in the past experienced substantial
difficulties in servicing their external debt obligations, which has led to
defaults on certain obligations and the restructuring of certain indebtedness.
Restructuring arrangements have included, among other things, reducing and
rescheduling interest and principal payments by negotiating new or amended
credit agreements or converting outstanding principal and unpaid interest to
Brady Bonds, and obtaining new credit to finance interest payments. Holders of
certain foreign government and government-related debt securities may be
requested to participate in the restructuring of such obligations and to extend
further loans to their issuers. There can be no assurance that the Brady Bonds
and other foreign government and government-related debt securities in which the
Series may invest will not be subject to similar defaults or restructuring
arrangements which may adversely affect the value of such investments.
Furthermore, certain participants in the secondary market for such debt may be
directly involved in negotiating the terms of these arrangements and may
therefore have access to information not available to other market participants.

     Payments to holders of the high yield, high risk, foreign debt securities
in which the Series may invest may be subject to foreign withholding and other
taxes. Although the holders of foreign government and government-related debt
securities may be entitled to tax gross-up payments from the issuers of such
instruments, there is no assurance that such payments will be made.

INVESTMENTS IN RUSSIAN SECURITIES

     The Global Fund, Emerging Markets Equity Fund and Emerging Markets Debt
Fund may invest in securities of Russian companies. The registration, clearing
and settlement of securities transactions in Russia are subject to significant
risks not normally associated with securities transactions in the United States
and other more developed markets. Ownership of shares of Russian companies is
evidenced by entries in a company's share register (except where shares are held
through depositories that meet the requirements of the Act) and the issuance of
extracts from the register or, in certain limited cases, by formal share
certificates. However, Russian share registers are frequently unreliable and a
Series could possibly lose its registration through oversight, negligence or
fraud. Moreover, Russia lacks a centralized registry to record securities
transactions and registrars located throughout Russia or the companies
themselves maintain share registers. Registrars are under no obligation to
provide extracts to potential purchasers in a timely manner or at all and are
not necessarily subject to state supervision. In addition, while registrars are
liable under law for losses resulting from their errors, it may be difficult for
a Series to enforce any rights it may have against the registrar or issuer of
the securities in the event of loss of share registration. Although Russian
companies with more than 1,000 shareholders are required by law to employ an
independent company to maintain share registers, in practice, such companies
have not always followed this law. Because of this lack of independence of
registrars, management of a Russian company may be able to exert considerable
influence over who can purchase or sell the company's shares by illegally
instructing the registrar to refuse to record transactions on the share
register. Furthermore, these practices may prevent a Series from investing in
the securities of certain Russian companies deemed suitable by the Advisor and
could cause a delay in the sale of Russian securities by the Series if the
company deems a purchaser unsuitable, which may expose the Series to potential
loss on its investment.

                                       29
<PAGE>
 
     In light of the risks described above, the Board has approved certain
procedures concerning the Series' investments in Russian securities.  Among
these procedures is a requirement that the Series will not invest in the
securities of a Russian company unless that issuer's registrar has entered into
a contract with the Series' sub-custodian containing certain protective
conditions including, among other things, the sub-custodian's right to conduct
regular share confirmations on behalf of the Series.  This requirement will
likely have the effect of precluding investments in certain Russian companies
that the Series would otherwise make.

INVESTMENTS IN AFFILIATED INVESTMENT COMPANIES

     The Series may invest in securities issued by other registered investment
companies advised by Brinson Partners pursuant to exemptive relief granted by
the SEC.  Currently, the Global Fund is the only Series of the Trust that
intends to invest in portfolios of the Brinson Relationship Funds, another
investment company which is advised by Brinson Partners, and only to the extent
consistent with the Advisor's investment process of allocating assets to
specific asset classes.  The Global Fund will invest in corresponding portfolios
of the Brinson Relationship Funds only to the extent that the Advisor determines
that such investments are a more efficient means for the Global Fund to gain
exposure to the asset classes referred to below than by investing directly in
individual securities.

     To gain exposure to equity and fixed income securities of issuers located
in emerging market countries, the Global Fund may invest that portion of its
assets allocated to emerging markets investments in the Brinson Emerging Markets
Equity Fund portfolio and the Brinson Emerging Markets Debt Fund portfolio of
Brinson Relationship Funds.  The investment objective of the Brinson Emerging
Markets Equity Fund and the Brinson Emerging Markets Debt Fund is to maximize
total U.S. dollar return, consisting of capital appreciation and current income,
while controlling risk.  Under normal circumstances, at least 65% of the total
assets of the Brinson Emerging Markets Equity Fund is invested in the equity
securities of issuers in emerging markets or securities with respect to which
the return is derived from the equity securities of issuers in emerging markets.
At least 65% of the total assets of the Brinson Emerging Markets Debt Fund is
invested in the debt securities issued by governments, government-related
entities (including participations in loans between governments and financial
institutions), corporations and entities organized to restructure outstanding
debt of issuers in emerging markets, or debt securities the return on which is
derived primarily from other emerging markets instruments.  The Brinson Emerging
Markets Equity Fund and Brinson Emerging Markets Debt Fund are permitted to
invest in the same types of securities as the Global Fund may invest in
directly.

     In lieu of investing directly in certain high yield, higher risk
securities, the Global Fund may invest a portion of its assets in the Brinson
High Yield Fund portfolio of the Brinson Relationship Funds.  The investment
objective of the Brinson High Yield Fund is to maximize total U.S. dollar
return, consisting of capital appreciation and current income, while controlling
risk. The Brinson High Yield Fund maintains a high yield portfolio and as such,
at least 65% of its assets are invested in high yield securities.  The Global
Fund currently intends to limit its investment in non-investment grade debt
securities to no more than 5% of its net assets.  Any investment in the Brinson
High Yield Fund will be considered within this limitation.

     In lieu of investing directly in equity securities issued by companies with
relatively small overall market capitalizations, the Global Fund may invest a
portion of its assets in the Brinson Post-Venture Fund portfolio (the "Post-
Venture Fund") of the Brinson Relationship Funds. The investment objective of
the Post-Venture Fund is to maximize total U.S. dollar return, consisting of
capital appreciation and current income, while controlling risk. The Post-
Venture Fund invests primarily in publicly-traded companies representing the
lower 5% of the Wilshire 5000 Index, and, as such, at least 65% of its assets
are invested in small capitalization equity securities.

     Each portfolio of the Brinson Relationship Funds in which the Global Fund
may invest is permitted to invest
                                       30
<PAGE>
 
directly, and with similar risks. Pursuant to undertakings with the SEC, the
Global Fund will not be subject to the imposition of double management or
administration fees with respect to its investments in portfolios of the
Brinson Relationship Funds.

INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS

     The investment restrictions set forth below are fundamental policies and
may not be changed as to a Series without the approval of a majority of the
outstanding voting securities (as defined in the Act) of the Series.  Unless
otherwise indicated, all percentage limitations listed below apply to the Series
only at the time of the transaction.  Accordingly, if a percentage restriction
is adhered to at the time of investment, a later increase or decrease in the
percentage which results from a relative change in values or from a change in a
Series' total assets will not be considered a violation.
    
     Except as set forth under "The Funds" and "Risk Considerations" in each
Prospectus, or "Investment Strategies" in this SAI, each of the Global Fund,
Global Equity Fund, Global Bond Fund, U.S. Balanced Fund, U.S. Equity Fund, U.S.
Large Capitalization Equity Fund, U.S. Bond Fund and the Global (ex-U.S.) Equity
Fund may not:     

     (i)    As to 75% of the total assets of each Series, purchase the
            securities of any one issuer, other than securities issued by the
            U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities, if immediately
            after such purchase more than 5% of the value of the total assets of
            a Series would be invested in securities of such issuer (this does
            not apply to the Global Bond Fund);

     (ii)   Invest in real estate or interests in real estate (this will not
            prevent a Series from investing in publicly-held real estate
            investment trusts or marketable securities of companies which may
            represent indirect interests in real estate), interests in oil, gas
            and/or mineral exploration or development programs or leases;

     (iii)  Purchase or sell commodities or commodity contracts, but may enter
            into futures contracts and options thereon in accordance with its
            Prospectus. Additionally, each Series may engage in forward foreign
            currency contracts for hedging and non-hedging purposes;

     (iv)   Make investments in securities for the purpose of exercising control
            over or management of the issuer;

     (v)    Purchase the securities of any one issuer if, immediately after such
            purchase, a Series would own more than 10% of the outstanding voting
            securities of such issuer;

     (vi)   Sell securities short or purchase securities on margin, except such
            short-term credits as are necessary for the clearance of
            transactions. For this purpose, the deposit or payment by a Series
            for initial or maintenance margin in connection with futures
            contracts is not considered to be the purchase or sale of a security
            on margin;

     (vii)  Make loans, except that this restriction shall not prohibit (a) the
            purchase and holding of a portion of an issue of publicly
            distributed or privately placed debt securities, (b) the lending of
            portfolio securities, or (c) entry into repurchase agreements with
            banks or broker-dealers;

     (viii) Borrow money in excess of 33 1/3% of the value of its assets except
            as a temporary measure for extraordinary or emergency purposes to
            facilitate redemptions or issue senior securities. All borrowings
            will be done from a bank and to the extent that such borrowing
            exceeds 5% of the value of a Series' assets, asset coverage of at
            least 300% is 

                                       31
<PAGE>
 
            required. A Series will not purchase securities when borrowings
            exceed 5% of that Series' total assets;

     (ix)   Purchase the securities of issuers conducting their principal
            business activities in the same industry, other than obligations
            issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or
            instrumentalities, if immediately after such purchase, the value of
            a Series' investments in such industry would exceed 25% of the value
            of the total assets of the Series across several countries;

     (x)    Act as an underwriter of securities, except that, in connection with
            the disposition of a security, a Series may be deemed to be an
            "underwriter" as that term is defined in the 1933 Act;

     (xi)   Invest in securities of any open-end investment company, except that
            (i) a Series may purchase securities of money market mutual funds,
            (ii) the Global Fund and Global Equity Fund may each invest in the
            securities of closed-end investment companies at customary brokerage
            commission rates in accordance with the limitations imposed by the
            Act and the rules thereunder, and (iii) in accordance with any
            exemptive order obtained from the SEC which permits investment by a
            Series in other Series or other investment companies or series
            thereof advised by the Advisor. In addition, each Series may acquire
            securities of other investment companies if the securities are
            acquired pursuant to a merger, consolidation, acquisition, plan of
            reorganization or a SEC approved offer of exchange;

     (xii)  Invest in puts, calls, straddles or combinations thereof except to
            the extent disclosed in a Series' Prospectus; and

     (xiii) Invest more than 5% of its total assets in securities of companies
            less than three years old. Such three year periods shall include the
            operation of any predecessor company or companies.
    
     Except as set forth under "The Funds" and "Risk Considerations" in each
Prospectus, or "Investment Strategies" in this SAI, each of the U.S. Large
Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund, High Yield
Fund, Emerging Markets Equity Fund and Emerging Markets Debt Fund may not:     

     (i)    As to 75% of the total assets of each Series, purchase the
            securities of any one issuer, other than securities issued by the
            U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities, if immediately
            after such purchase more than 5% of the value of the total assets of
            a Series would be invested in securities of such issuer (this does
            not apply to the U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, Emerging
            Markets Equity Fund and Emerging Markets Debt Fund) or purchase the
            securities of any one issuer if, immediately after such purchase, a
            Series would own more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities
            of such issuer;

     (ii)   Invest in real estate or interests in real estate (this will not
            prevent a Series from investing in publicly-held real estate
            investment trusts or marketable securities of companies which may
            represent indirect interests in real estate), interests in oil, gas
            and/or mineral exploration or development programs or leases;

     (iii)  Purchase or sell commodities or commodity contracts, but may enter
            into futures contracts and options thereon in accordance with its
            Prospectus. Additionally, each Series may engage in forward foreign
            currency contracts for hedging and non-hedging purposes;

                                       32
<PAGE>
 
     (iv)   Make loans, except that this restriction shall not prohibit (a) the
            purchase and holding of a portion of an issue of publicly
            distributed or privately placed debt securities, (b) the lending of
            portfolio securities, or (c) entry into repurchase agreements with
            banks or broker-dealers;

     (v)    Borrow money in excess of 33 1/3% of the value of its assets except
            as a temporary measure for extraordinary or emergency purposes to
            facilitate redemptions or issue senior securities. All borrowings
            will be done from a bank and to the extent that such borrowing
            exceeds 5% of the value of a Series' assets, asset coverage of at
            least 300% is required. A Series will not purchase securities when
            borrowings exceed 5% of that Series' total assets;

     (vi)   Purchase the securities of issuers conducting their principal
            business activities in the same industry, other than obligations
            issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or
            instrumentalities, if immediately after such purchase, the value of
            a Series' investments in such industry would exceed 25% of the value
            of the total assets of the Series across several countries; and

     (vii)  Act as an underwriter of securities, except that, in connection with
            the disposition of a security, a Series may be deemed to be an
            "underwriter" as that term is defined in the 1933 Act.


                            MANAGEMENT OF THE TRUST

     The Trust is a Delaware business trust.  Under Delaware law, the Board has
overall responsibility for managing the business and affairs of the Trust.  The
Trustees elect the officers of the Trust, who are responsible for administering
the day-to-day operations of the Series.

     The Trustees and executive officers of the Trust, along with their
principal occupations over the past five years and their affiliations, if any,
with Brinson Partners, are listed below.

                             TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                             POSITION
                                               WITH
NAME                               AGE       THE TRUST               PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION(S) DURING PAST 5 YEARS
- -------------------------------  -------  ---------------  ---------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                              <C>      <C>              <C>
Walter E. Auch                      78    Trustee          Retired; formerly Chairman and CEO of Chicago Board of Options
6001 N. 62nd Place                                         Exchange (1979-1986); Trustee of the Trust since May, 1994;
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253                                  Trustee, Brinson Relationship Funds since December, 1994;
                                                           Trustee, Brinson Supplementary Trust since November, 1997;
                                                           Director, Thomsen Asset Management Corp. since 1987; Director,
                                                           Fort Dearborn Income Securities, Inc. 1987 to 1995; Director,
                                                           Smith Barney VIP Fund since 1991; Director, SB Advisers since
                                                           1992; Director, SB Trak since 1992; Director, Banyan Realty
                                                           Trust since 1988; Director, Banyan Land Fund II since 1988;
                                                           Director, Banyan Mortgage Investment Fund since 1989; and
                                                           Director, Express America Holdings Corp. since 1992, and
                                                           Nicholas/Applegate Funds and Legend Properties, Inc.;
                                                           Director, Geotek Industries, Inc. 1987 to 1998.
</TABLE>     
 

                                       33
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>
<S>                                   <C> <C>              <C> 
Frank K. Reilly                       63  Chairman and     Professor, University of Notre Dame since 1982; Trustee of the
College of Business                       Trustee          Trust since December, 1993; Trustee, Brinson Relationship
Administration                                             Funds since September, 1994; Trustee, Brinson Supplementary
University of Notre Dame                                   Trust since November, 1997; Director of The Brinson Funds,
Notre Dame, IN  46556-0399                                 Inc. 1992-1993; Trustee, Brinson Trust Company, 1992-July,
                                                           1993; Director, Fort Dearborn Income Securities, Inc. since
                                                           1993; Director, First Interstate Bank of Wisconsin from
                                                           January, 1989 through March,  1990; Director, Greenwood Trust
                                                           Company since 1993; and Director, Dean Witter Trust, FSB,
                                                           since 1996.
 
Edward M. Roob                        64  Trustee          Retired; prior thereto, Senior Vice President, Daiwa
841 Woodbine Lane                                          Securities America Inc. (1986-1993); Trustee of the Trust
Northbrook, IL  60002                                      since January, 1995; Trustee, Brinson Relationship Funds since
                                                           January 1995; Trustee, Brinson Supplementary Trust since
                                                           November, 1997; Director, Fort Dearborn Income Securities,
                                                           Inc. since 1993; Director, Brinson Trust Company since 1993;
                                                           Committee Member, Chicago Stock Exchange since 1993; Member of
                                                           Board of Governors, Midwest Stock Exchange (1987-1991).
</TABLE>

                                   OFFICERS

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                         POSITION
                                           WITH          OFFICER
NAME                          AGE        THE TRUST        SINCE           PRINCIPAL OCCUPATION(S) DURING PAST 5 YEARS
- --------------------------  --------  ---------------  ------------  ------------------------------------------------------
<S>                         <C>       <C>              <C>           <C>
E. Thomas McFarlan              55    President             1992     Managing Director, Brinson Partners, Inc. since 1991;
                                                                     Treasurer and Principal Accounting Officer, The
                                                                     Brinson Funds 1995-1997; President and Director of
                                                                     The Brinson Funds, Inc., 1992 - 1993; Chairman,
                                                                     Brinson Trust Company since 1996; Trustee, Brinson
                                                                     Trust Company since 1991; President, Brinson
                                                                     Supplementary Trust since 1997; Chairman, UBS Brinson
                                                                     Funds Management Co. since 1999; Managing Director,
                                                                     UBS Brinson since 1998; prior thereto, Executive Vice
                                                                     President of Washington Mutual Savings Bank.
                                                                   
Thomas J. Digenan               35    Vice                  1993     Director, Brinson Partners, Inc. since 1993; Vice
                                      President                      President, Brinson Supplementary Trust since 1997;
                                                                     Assistant Treasurer, The Brinson Funds 1995-1997;
                                                                     Assistant Secretary, The Brinson Funds, 1993 - 1995;
                                                                     Assistant Secretary, The Brinson Funds, Inc., 1993;
                                                                     prior thereto, Senior Manager, KPMG Peat Marwick.
                                                                   
Debra L. Nichols                33    Vice                  1992     Director, Brinson Partners, Inc. since 1995;
                                      President                      Associate, Brinson Partners, Inc. from 1991 to 1995;
                                                                     Vice President, The Brinson Funds since 1997;
                                                                     Secretary, The Brinson Funds 1997; Assistant
                                                                     Secretary, The Brinson Funds 1993 - 1997; Assistant
                                                                     Secretary, The Brinson Funds, Inc. 1992-1993;
                                                                     Secretary, Brinson Supplementary Trust since 1997;
                                                                     prior thereto, private investor.
</TABLE>     

                                       34
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>
<S>                            <C>    <C>                   <C>      <C> 
Carolyn  M. Burke              32     Treasurer,            1995     Director, Brinson Partners, Inc., since January 1997;
                                      Secretary                      Associate, Brinson Partners, Inc. from 1995 to 1997;
                                      and                            Secretary, Treasurer and Principal Accounting
                                      Principal                      Officer, The Brinson Funds since 1997; Assistant
                                      Accounting                     Secretary, The Brinson Funds 1995-1997; Treasurer and
                                      Officer                        Principal Accounting Officer, Brinson Supplementary
                                                                     Trust since 1997; prior thereto, Financial Analyst,
                                                                     Van Kampen American Capital Investment Advisory Corp.
                                                                     1992-1995; Senior Accountant, KPMG Peat Marwick
                                                                     1989-1992.
                                                                   
David E. Floyd                 30     Assistant             1998     Associate Director, Brinson Partners, Inc. since June
                                      Secretary                      1998; Associate, Brinson Partners, Inc., from  1994
                                                                     to 1998; Assistant Secretary, The Brinson Funds since
                                                                     1998; Assistant Secretary, Brinson Supplementary
                                                                     Trust since 1998; Assistant Trust Officer, Brinson
                                                                     Trust Company since 1993; prior thereto, Mutual Fund
                                                                     Accountant, John Nuveen & Co.
                                                                   
Mark F. Kemper                 41     Assistant             1999     Assistant Secretary, Brinson Partners, Inc. since
                                      Secretary                      1993; Assistant Secretary, Brinson Trust Company
                                                                     since 1993; Secretary, UBS Brinson, Inc. since 1998;
                                                                     Assistant Secretary, The Brinson Funds since 1999;
                                                                     Assistant Secretary, Brinson Supplementary Trust
                                                                     since 1999; Assistant Secretary, Brinson Holdings,
                                                                     Inc. (1993-1998).
</TABLE>


                              COMPENSATION TABLE

                             TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS
                                        
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                              AGGREGATE COMPENSATION                   TOTAL COMPENSATION FROM
                                            FROM TRUST FOR FISCAL YEAR                 TRUST AND FUND COMPLEX
NAME AND POSITION HELD                          ENDED JUNE 30, 1998                       PAID TO TRUSTEES/1/
- ------------------------------------  ---------------------------------------  ---------------------------------------
<S>                                   <C>                                      <C>
Walter E. Auch, Trustee                                $12,300                                  $24,900
6001 N. 62nd Place                                     
Paradise Valley, AZ 85253                              

Frank K. Reilly, Trustee                               $14,400                                  $42,450
College of Business Administration                     
University of Notre Dame                               
Notre Dame, IN  46556-0399                             
                                                       
Edward M. Roob, Trustee                                $14,400                                  $42,450
841 Woodbine Lane
Northbrook, IL  60002
</TABLE>
    
/1/      This amount represents the aggregate amount of compensation paid to the
Trustees for (a) service on the Board for the Trust's most recently completed
fiscal year; and (b) service on the Board of Trustees of two other investment
companies managed by Brinson Partners for the calendar year ending June 30,
1998.    

         No officer or Trustee of the Trust who is also an officer or employee
of Brinson Partners receives any compensation from the Trust for services to the
Trust. The Trust pays each Trustee who is not affiliated with Brinson Partners a
fee of $6,000 per year, plus $300 per Series per meeting, and 

                                       35
<PAGE>
 
reimburses each Trustee and officer for out-of-pocket expenses in connection
with travel and attendance at Board meetings.

     The Board has an Audit Committee which has the responsibility, among other
things, to (i) recommend the selection of the Trust's independent auditors, (ii)
review and approve the scope of the independent auditors' audit activity, (iii)
review the audited financial statements, and (iv) review with such independent
auditors the adequacy of the Series' basic accounting system and the
effectiveness of the Series' internal controls. The Audit Committee met once
during the fiscal year ended June 30, 1998. There is no separate nominating or
investment committee. Items pertaining to these committees are submitted to the
full Board.

CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SECURITIES

    
     As of April 5, 1999, the officers and Trustees unless otherwise noted, as a
group owned less than 1% of the outstanding equity securities of the Trust and
of each class of equity securities of the Trust.
    
     As of April 5, 1999, the following persons owned of record or beneficially
more than 5% of the outstanding voting shares of the Brinson Fund-Class I,
Brinson Fund-Class N, UBS Investment Funds class of shares or the Series, as
applicable:     

GLOBAL FUND

<TABLE>     
<CAPTION> 
                                                  Percentage of   Percentage of
Name & Address of Beneficial and Record Owners       Class           Series
- ----------------------------------------------       -----           ------
<S>                                               <C>             <C>     
BRINSON FUND-CLASS I

    American Express                                       7.93%           7.51%
    Minneapolis, MN
 
    Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.                             6.73%           6.37%
    San Francisco, CA
 
    Wilmington Trust Company                               6.27%           5.94%
    Wilmington, DE
 
    LaFayette College Endowment                            5.61%           5.31%
    Easton, PA
 
    Northern Trust Company                                 5.39%           5.12%
    Chicago, IL
 
BRINSON FUND-CLASS N
 
  * Emjayco                                               86.49%            N/A
    Milwaukee, WI
 
    Merrill Lynch Trust Co.                               13.02%            N/A
    Somerset, NJ
</TABLE>      

                                       36
<PAGE>
 
UBS INVESTMENT FUNDS CLASS

<TABLE>     
<S>                                                       <C>               <C>  
  * UBS AG                                                75.93%            N/A
    New York, NY
</TABLE>      
 
GLOBAL EQUITY FUND

<TABLE>     
<CAPTION> 
                                                  Percentage of   Percentage of
Name & Address of Beneficial and Record Owners        Class          Series
- ----------------------------------------------        -----          ------
<S>                                               <C>             <C>  
BRINSON FUND-CLASS I
 
   Wachovia Bank NA                                       23.56%          11.65%
    Winston Salem, NC
 
    Charles Schwab & Co. Inc.                             16.49%           8.16%
    San Francisco, CA
 
    Wilmington Trust Co.                                  16.16%           7.99%
    Wilmington, DE
 
    Resources Trust Company                               18.17%           8.99%
    Englewood, CO
 
    FTC & Co.                                              5.86%            N/A
    Denver, CO
 
BRINSON FUND-CLASS N
 
   *National Financial Services Corp.                     99.46%            N/A
    New York, NY
 
UBS INVESTMENT FUNDS CLASS
 
  *UBS AG                                                 38.73%          19.47%
    New York, NY
 
    UBS SA                                                15.47%           7.78%
    Zurich, Switzerland
 
    UBS SA                                                13.82%           6.95%
    Zurich, Switzerland
</TABLE>      
 
GLOBAL BOND FUND
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION> 
                                                  Percentage of   Percentage of
Name & Address of Beneficial and Record Owners        Class          Series
- ----------------------------------------------        -----          ------
<S>                                               <C>             <C>  
BRINSON FUND-CLASS I
 
 *+ Wilmington Trust Co.                                  31.31%          30.30%
    Wilmington, DE
</TABLE>     

                                       37
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>     
<S>                                                       <C>             <C> 
    Charles Schwab & Co. Inc.                             10.76%          10.41%
    San Francisco, CA
 
    Baptist Health Systems, Inc.                          10.14%           9.81%
    Birmingham, AL
 
    Resources Trust Company                               11.21%          10.85%
    Englewood, CO
 
    Munson Williams Proctor Institute                      6.90%           6.68%
    Utica, NY
 
    UBS AG                                                 9.66%           9.35%
    New York, NY
 
BRINSON FUND-CLASS N

  * Emjayco                                               98.97%            N/A
    Milwaukee, WI

UBS INVESTMENT FUNDS CLASS

  * UBS AG                                                56.48%            N/A
    New York, NY
 
    UBS AG                                                15.02%            N/A
    New York, NY
 
    UBS SA                                                 5.95%            N/A
    Zurich, Switzerland
</TABLE>      
 
 
U.S. BALANCED FUND
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION> 
                                                  Percentage of   Percentage of
Name & Address of Beneficial and Record Owners        Class          Series
- ----------------------------------------------        -----          -------
<S>                                               <C>             <C>     
BRINSON FUND-CLASS I

 *+ Wachovia Bank of NA                                   34.85%          33.52%
    Winston Salem, NC
 
 *+ Mitra & Co.                                           31.54%          30.33%
    Milwaukee, WI
 
    American Express                                      17.17%          16.51%
    Minneapolis, MN
 
    Carn & Co.                                             6.07%           5.83%
    Washington, DC
</TABLE>      

                                       38
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>     
<S>                                                       <C>               <C>   
BRINSON FUND-CLASS N
 
  * Brinson Partners, Inc.                                90.80%            N/A
    Chicago, IL
 
    FDC Investor Services Group                            9.19%            N/A
    Westborough, MA
 
UBS INVESTMENT FUNDS CLASS
 
  * UBS AG                                                54.16%            N/A
    New York, NY

    APD Profit Sharing Plan                               17.68%            N/A
    Key West, FL

    UBS SA                                                13.96%            N/A
    Zurich, Switzerland
</TABLE>      

U.S. EQUITY FUND

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                                  Percentage of   Percentage of
Name & Address of Beneficial and Record Owners        Class           Series
- ----------------------------------------------        -----           ------
<S>                                               <C>             <C>
BRINSON FUND-CLASS I
 
    Wachovia Bank NA                                      12.92%          11.62%
    Winston Salem, NC
 
    Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.                             8.41%           7.57%
    San Francisco, CA
 
    The Northern Trust Company                             5.09%            N/A
    Chicago, IL
 
BRINSON FUND-CLASS N
 
  * Merrill Lynch Trust Co.                               91.46%            N/A
    Somerset, NJ
 
    Emjayco                                                8.34%            N/A
    Milwaukee, WI
 
UBS INVESTMENT FUNDS CLASS
 
  * UBS SA                                                55.40%           5.15%
    Zurich, Switzerland
 
  * UBS SA                                                29.22%            N/A
    Zurich, Switzerland
 
    UBS AG                                                11.25%            N/A
    New York, NY
</TABLE>     

                                       39
<PAGE>
 
U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION EQUITY FUND

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION> 

                                                  Percentage of   Percentage of
Name & Address of Beneficial and Record Owners        Class           Series
- ----------------------------------------------        -----           ------
<S>                                               <C>             <C>  
 
BRINSON FUND-CLASS I
 
 ++ The Animal Medical Center                             31.55%          26.03%
    New York, NY
 
  *+ Resources Trust Company                              30.46%          25.12%
    Englewood, CO
 
    Charles Schwab & Co., Inc.                            19.51%          16.09%
    San Francisco, CA
 
    FTC & Co.                                              8.25%           6.81%
    Denver, CO
 
BRINSON FUND-CLASS N
 
  * National Financial Services Corp.                     99.99%          17.51%
    New York, NY
 
UBS Investment Funds Class
 
  * Thomas J. Digenan                                       100%            N/A
    Chicago, IL
</TABLE>      
 
 
U.S. BOND FUND
 
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION> 
                                                  Percentage of   Percentage of
Name & Address of Beneficial Owners                   Class           Series
- ------------------------------------                  -----           ------
<S>                                               <C>             <C>  
BRINSON FUND-CLASS I
 
    Wachovia Bank NA                                      15.88%          14.89%
    Winston Salem, NC
 
    Charles Schwab & Co. Inc.                             14.56%          13.66%
    San Francisco, CA
 
    Resources Trust Company                               16.28%          15.27%
    Englewood, CO
 
    UBS AG                                                 9.46%           8.87%
    New York, NY
</TABLE>      

                                       40
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>    
<S>                                                   <C>             <C>  
    Firstcinco Reid                                    5.90%           5.54%
    Cincinnati, OH
 
    Norwest Bank                                       9.53%           8.94%
    Minneapolis, MN
 
    FTC & Co.                                          5.79%           5.43%
    Denver, CO
 
BRINSON FUND-CLASS N
 
  * Brinson Partners, Inc.                              100%            N/A
    Chicago, IL
 
UBS INVESTMENT FUNDS CLASS
 
  * UBS AG                                            43.19%            N/A
    New York, NY
 
    UBS SA                                            15.11%            N/A
    Zurich, Switzerland
   
    UBS AG                                            13.52%            N/A
    New York, NY

    Arlington Press Profit Sharing Plan                7.91%            N/A
    Brooklyn, NY
</TABLE>       
 
GLOBAL (ex-U.S.) EQUITY FUND

<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>  
                                                  Percentage of   Percentage of
Name & Address of Beneficial and Record Owners        Class           Series
- ------------------------------------------------  -------------   -------------
<S>                                               <C>             <C>           
BRINSON FUND-CLASS I
 
    The Northern Trust Company                        23.69%          23.41%
    Chicago, IL
 
    Charles Schwab & Co. Inc.                          7.36%           7.27%
    San Francisco, CA
 
BRINSON FUND-CLASS N
 
  * Emjayco                                           92.58%            N/A
    Milwaukee, WI
</TABLE>     

                                       41
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>    
<S>                                                   <C>              <C> 
    Brinson Partners Inc                               7.42%             N/A
    Chicago, IL
 
UBS INVESTMENT FUNDS CLASS
 
  * UBS AG                                            36.75%             N/A
    New York, NY
 
    UBS SA                                            22.55%             N/A
    Zurich, Switzerland
 
    Emjayco                                           10.92%             N/A
    Milwaukee, WI
 
    UBS SA                                             9.55%             N/A
    Zurich, Switzerland
</TABLE>      
     
     
HIGH YIELD FUND


<TABLE>     
<CAPTION> 
                                                 Percentage of   Percentage of
Name & Address of Beneficial and Record Owners         Class           Series
- ----------------------------------------------         -----           ------
<S>                                              <C>             <C>       
BRINSON FUND-CLASS I

*+ UBS AG                                              82.11%          75.18%
  New York, NY

    UBS AG                                              9.80%           8.98%
    New York, NY
 
BRINSON FUND-CLASS N
 
  * Brinson Partners Inc.                                100%            N/A
    Chicago, IL
 
UBS INVESTMENT FUNDS CLASS
</TABLE>     
 

                                       42
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>    
<S>                                                   <C>             <C> 
  * Warburg Dillon Read LLC                           62.14%           5.24%
    Stamford, CT
 
    UBS AG                                            19.34%            N/A
    New York, NY
 
    UBS AG                                             7.64%            N/A
    New York, NY
</TABLE>      

U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND


<TABLE>     
<CAPTION> 
 
                                                  Percentage of   Percentage of
Name & Address of Beneficial and Record Owners        Class           Series
- ------------------------------------------------      -----           ------  
<S>                                               <C>             <C>           
BRINSON FUND-CLASS I
 
*+  UBS AG                                             43.78%          31.53%
    New York, NY
 
*+  Howard Smith & Levin LLP                           32.80%          23.62%
    New York, NY
 
    CRC Asset Management Corp.                         10.78%           7.76%
    Hackensack, NJ
 
Wilmington Trust Company                                8.71%           6.27%
    Wilmington, DE
  
BRINSON FUND-CLASS N
 
  * Brinson Partners Inc.                                100%            N/A
    Chicago, IL
 
UBS INVESTMENT FUNDS CLASS
 
    UBS AG                                             21.99%           6.15%
    New York, NY
 
* Arlington Press Profit Sharing Plan                  19.56%           5.47%
    Brooklyn, NY
</TABLE>     

                                       43
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>    
<S>                                                  <C>              <C> 
  * PJ Mechanical Corp.                              17.32%             N/A
     Employee Pension Plan
    New York, NY
 
    Clinical Systems                                 15.18%             N/A
    Garden City, NY
 
    David J. Nash                                     9.69%             N/A
    New York, NY
 
    PJ Mechanical Corp.                               7.96%             N/A
    Profit Sharing Plan
    New York, NY
 
    Anron Heating & Air Conditioning Inc.             6.52%             N/A
    Employee Pension Plan
    North Babylon, NY
</TABLE>      


U.S. SMALL CAPITALIZATION GROWTH FUND


<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>  
                                                  Percentage of   Percentage of
Name & Address of Beneficial and Record Owners        Class           Series
- ------------------------------------------------      -----           ------
<S>                                               <C>             <C>       
BRINSON FUND-CLASS I
 
*+ UBS AG                                             85.03%          83.69%
    New York, NY
 
BRINSON FUND-CLASS N
 
  * Brinson Partners Inc.                               100%            N/A
    Chicago, IL
 
UBS INVESTMENT FUNDS CLASS
 
    Clinical Systems                                  24.34%            N/A
    Garden City, NY
 
    Arlington Press Profit Sharing Plan               16.76%            N/A
    Brooklyn, NY
 
    PJ Mechanical Corp.                               14.15%            N/A
     Employee Pension Plan
    New York, NY
 
    Anron Heating & Air Conditioning Inc.              8.21%            N/A
    Employee Pension Plan
    North Babylon, NY
 
    PJ Mechanical Corp.                                6.07%            N/A
    Profit Sharing Plan
    New York, NY
</TABLE>     
 

                                       44
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>    
    <S>                                               <C>               <C>   
    David J. Nash                                     14.13%            N/A
    New York, NY
 
    UBS AG                                            12.70%            N/A
    New York, NY
</TABLE>     

*    Person deemed to control the class within the meaning of the Act. Note that
     such persons possess the ability to control the outcome of matters
     submitted for the vote of shareholders of that class.

+    Person deemed to control the Series within the meaning of the Act. Note
     that such persons possess the ability to control the outcome of matters
     submitted for the vote of shareholders of that Series.

INVESTMENT ADVISORY AND OTHER SERVICES

ADVISOR

          Brinson Partners, a Delaware corporation, is an investment management
firm, managing as of December 31, 1998, over $297 billion, primarily for
institutional pension and profit sharing funds. Brinson Partners was organized
in 1989 when it acquired the institutional asset management business of The
First National Bank of Chicago and First Chicago Investment Advisors, N.A.
Brinson Partners and its predecessor entities have managed domestic and
international investment assets since 1974 and global investment assets since
1982. Brinson Partners has offices in Bahrain, Basel, Frankfurt, Geneva, Hong
Kong, London, Melbourne, New York, Paris, Rio de Janeiro, Singapore, Sydney,
Tokyo and Zurich in addition to its principal office at 209 South LaSalle
Street, Chicago, IL 60604-1295. Brinson Partners is a wholly-owned subsidiary of
UBS AG. UBS AG, with headquarters in Zurich, Switzerland, is an internationally
diversified organization with operations in many aspects of the financial
services industry. UBS AG was formed by the merger of Union Bank of Switzerland
and Swiss Bank Corporation in June 1998.

    
          Brinson Partners also serves as the investment advisor to ten other
investment companies: Brinson Relationship Funds, which includes seventeen
investment portfolios (series); Fort Dearborn Income Securities, Inc.; The
Hirtle Callaghan International Trust - International Equity Portfolio; John
Hancock Variable Annuity Series Trust I - International Balanced Portfolio;
Managed Accounts Services Portfolio Trust - Pace Large Company Value Equity
Investments; AON Funds - International Equity Fund; The Republic Funds -Republic
Equity Fund; Governor Funds International Equity Fund; Horace Mann Growth Fund;
and Horace Mann Balanced Fund (equities only).    

          Pursuant to its investment advisory agreements (the "Agreements") with
the Trust, on behalf of each Series, Brinson Partners receives from each Series
a monthly fee at an annual rate (as described in the Prospectuses and below)
multiplied by the average daily net assets of that Series for providing
investment advisory services. Brinson Partners is responsible for paying its
expenses. Under the Agreements, each Series pays the following expenses: (1) the
fees and expenses of the Trust's disinterested Trustees; (2) the salaries and
expenses of any of the Trust's officers or employees who are not affiliated with
Brinson Partners; (3) interest expenses; (4) taxes and governmental fees; (5)
brokerage commissions and other expenses incurred in acquiring or disposing of
portfolio securities; (6) the expenses of registering and qualifying shares for
sale with the SEC and with various state securities commissions; (7) auditing
and legal costs; (8) insurance premiums; (9) fees and expenses of the Trust's
custodian, administrative and transfer agent and any related services; (10)
expenses of obtaining

                                       45
<PAGE>
 
quotations of the Series' portfolio securities and of pricing the Series'
shares; (11) expenses of maintaining the Trust's legal existence and of
shareholders' meetings; (12) expenses of preparation and distribution to
existing shareholders of reports, proxies and prospectuses; and (13) fees and
expenses of membership in industry organizations.

    
    Under the Agreements, the Advisor is entitled to a monthly fee of the
respective Series' average daily net assets as follows: annual rates of 1.10%
for the Emerging Markets Debt Fund; 1.00% for the U.S. Small Capitalization
Growth Fund; 0.80% for the Global Fund, Global Equity Fund and Global (ex-U.S.)
Equity Fund; 0.75% for the Global Bond Fund; 0.70% for the U.S. Balanced Fund,
U.S. Equity Fund, U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund and the U.S. Large
Capitalization Equity Fund; 0.65% for the Emerging Markets Equity Fund; 0.60%
for the High Yield Fund; and 0.50% for the U.S. Bond Fund. The fee payable to
Brinson Partners by the Global Fund, Global Equity Fund, U.S. Small
Capitalization Growth Fund, Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund, Emerging Markets
Equity Fund and Emerging Markets Debt Fund is higher than the advisory fees paid
by most other mutual funds, but is comparable to those of other mutual funds
with similar investment objectives. The Advisor has agreed irrevocably to waive
its fees and reimburse expenses to the extent that total operating expenses
exceed the following rates of the respective Series' average daily net assets as
follows, without regard to 12b-1 Plan expenses for the UBS Investment Funds
class of shares or the Brinson-Class N shares of each Series: 1.60% for the
Emerging Markets Debt Fund; 1.15% for the U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund
and the Emerging Markets Equity Fund; 1.10% for the Global Fund; 1.00% for the
Global Equity Fund and the Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund; 0.90% for the Global
Bond Fund; 0.80% for the U.S. Balanced Fund, the U.S. Equity Fund and the U.S.
Large Capitalization Growth Fund; 0.70% for the High Yield Fund and the U.S.
Large Capitalization Equity Fund; and 0.60% for the U.S. Bond Fund.    
    
    Advisory fees accrued to Brinson Partners were as follows:

A.  FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 1996

<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                  GROSS ADVISORY FEES         
                                        EARNED             NET ADVISORY FEES PAID      FUND EXPENSES PAID
SERIES*                               BY ADVISOR              AFTER FEE WAIVER             BY ADVISOR  
- ------                                ----------              ----------------             ---------- 
<S>                               <C>                      <C>                         <C>
GLOBAL FUND                           $3,415,057                 $3,415,057                 $      0
GLOBAL EQUITY FUND                    $  390,824                 $   12,198                 $378,626
GLOBAL BOND FUND                      $  310,066                 $      158                 $309,908
U.S. BALANCED FUND                    $1,465,283                 $1,015,531                 $449,752
U.S. EQUITY FUND                      $  638,063                 $  326,322                 $311,741
U.S. BOND FUND                        $   37,868                 $        0                 $230,216
GLOBAL (ex-U.S.) EQUITY FUND          $1,403,109                 $1,050,199                 $352,910
</TABLE>      

B.  FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 1997

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                  GROSS ADVISORY FEES         
                                        EARNED             NET ADVISORY FEES PAID      FUND EXPENSES PAID
SERIES*                               BY ADVISOR              AFTER FEE WAIVER             BY ADVISOR     
- -----                                 ----------              ----------------             ---------- 
<S>                               <C>                      <C>                         <C>
GLOBAL FUND                           $4,294,925                 $4,294,925                 $      0
GLOBAL EQUITY FUND                    $  641,075                 $  445,564                 $195,511
GLOBAL BOND FUND                      $  344,152                 $  149,228                 $194,924
U.S. BALANCED FUND                    $1,775,454                 $1,559,981                 $215,473
U.S. EQUITY FUND                      $1,423,666                 $1,234,361                 $189,305
U.S. BOND FUND                        $   67,835                 $        0                 $142,178
GLOBAL (ex-U.S.) EQUITY FUND          $2,420,667                 $2,420,667                 $      0
</TABLE>      

                                       46
<PAGE>
 
    
*   The U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund, the U.S. Large Capitalization
Growth Fund, the U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund, the High Yield Fund, the
Emerging Markets Debt Fund and the Emerging Markets Equity Fund had not
commenced operations as of the time periods indicated. Effective December 10,
1998, the Non-U.S. Equity Fund changed its name to the Global (ex-U.S.) Equity
Fund.     

C.  FISCAL YEAR ENDED JUNE 30, 1998

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                  GROSS ADVISORY FEES         
                                        EARNED             NET ADVISORY FEES PAID      FUND EXPENSES PAID
SERIES*                               BY ADVISOR              AFTER FEE WAIVER             BY ADVISOR     
- ------                                ----------              ----------------             ----------
<S>                               <C>                      <C>                         <C>
GLOBAL FUND                           $5,378,141                 $5,378,141                  $     0
GLOBAL EQUITY FUND                    $  719,439                 $  697,541                  $21,898
GLOBAL BOND FUND                      $  500,982                 $  457,480                  $43,502
U.S. BALANCED FUND                    $1,674,661                 $1,655,564                  $19,097
U.S. EQUITY FUND                      $3,792,120                 $3,792,120                  $     0
U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION
 EQUITY FUND                          $   21,230                 $        0                  $23,989
U.S. BOND FUND                        $  142,474                 $   74,626                  $67,848
GLOBAL (ex-U.S.) EQUITY FUND          $3,475,953                 $3,475,953                  $     0
</TABLE>       

*   The U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, the U.S. Small Capitalization
Growth Fund, the High Yield Fund, the Emerging Markets Debt Fund and the
Emerging Markets Equity Fund had not commenced operations as of the time period
indicated. Effective December 10, 1998, the Non-U.S. Equity Fund changed its
name to the Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund.

     
D.  PERIOD FROM DECEMBER 19, 1998 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 1998     

<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                  GROSS ADVISORY FEES         
                                       EARNED BY           NET ADVISORY FEES PAID      FUND EXPENSES PAID BY 
SERIES*                             BRINSON PARTNERS          AFTER FEE WAIVER           BRINSON PARTNERS
- ------                              ----------------          ----------------           ---------------- 
<S>                               <C>                      <C>                         <C>
U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION
 GROWTH FUND                            $   849                    $      0                   $   849

U.S. SMALL CAPITALIZATION
 GROWTH FUND                            $ 6,538                    $  2,107                   $ 4,431
 
HIGH YIELD FUND                         $ 6,278                    $  3,630                   $ 2,648
</TABLE>      

    
*   Effective on December 19, 1998, the UBS Large Cap Growth Fund, UBS Small Cap
Fund and UBS High Yield Bond Fund were reorganized into the U.S. Large
Capitalization Growth Fund, and as further discussed below, U.S. Small
Capitalization Growth Fund and High Yield Fund, respectively. The U.S. Large
Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund and High Yield
Fund initially had fiscal years ending on December 31. At the February 22, 1999
Board of Trustees' meeting, the Board of Trustees of the Trust voted to change
the fiscal year end of these three Funds to June 30.
    
    Prior to the reorganization of the UBS Large Cap Growth Fund, UBS Small Cap
Fund and UBS High Yield Bond Fund (collectively, the "UBS Funds" and each a "UBS
Fund") into the U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization
Growth Fund and High Yield Fund,      

                                       47
<PAGE>
 
    
respectively, each of the UBS Funds invested substantially all of its investable
assets in a corresponding portfolio of UBS Investor Portfolios Trust
(collectively, the "UBS Portfolios" and each a "UBS Portfolio"). Under the
investment advisory agreement of each UBS Portfolio with the New York office of
UBS A.G., as the successor to the New York Branch of the Union Bank of
Switzerland ("UBS"), UBS was entitled to a monthly fee of the corresponding UBS
Portfolios' average daily net assets as follows: annual rates of 0.60% for the
UBS Large Cap Growth Fund and the UBS Small Cap Fund and 0.45% for the
UBS High Yield Bond Fund. UBS agreed to waive its fees and reimburse each UBS
Fund and its corresponding Portfolio to the extent that each UBS Fund's total
operating expenses (including its share of its corresponding Portfolio's
expenses) exceeded, on an annual basis, the following rates of the respective
UBS Fund's average daily net assets: 1.00% for the UBS Large Cap Growth Fund,
1.20% for the UBS Small Cap Fund and 0.90% for the UBS High Yield Bond Fund.
     

    
    Advisory fees accrued to UBS for the UBS Funds were as follows:     

A.  PERIOD FROM DECEMBER 21, 1997 THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 1997

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                  GROSS ADVISORY FEES
                                        EARNED             NET ADVISORY FEES PAID      FUND EXPENSES PAID
SERIES*                                 BY UBS                AFTER FEE WAIVER               BY UBS
- ------                                  ------                ----------------               ------
<S>                               <C>                      <C>                         <C>
UBS LARGE CAP GROWTH FUND**             $  923                      $   0                    $  923

UBS SMALL CAP FUND                      $4,233                      $   0                    $4,233

UBS HIGH YIELD BOND FUND                $1,611                      $   0                    $1,611
</TABLE>     
   
B.  PERIOD FROM JANUARY 1, 1998 THROUGH DECEMBER 18, 1998
    
<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                  GROSS ADVISORY FEES
                                        EARNED             NET ADVISORY FEES PAID      FUND EXPENSES PAID
SERIES*                                 BY UBS                AFTER FEE WAIVER               BY UBS
- ------                                  ------                ----------------               ------
<S>                               <C>                      <C>                         <C>
UBS LARGE CAP GROWTH FUND               $ 32,644                  $     0                   $ 97,199

UBS SMALL CAP FUND                      $107,673                  $19,971                   $ 87,702

UBS HIGH YIELD BOND FUND                $ 71,860                  $     0                   $117,430
</TABLE>     

   
    
   
**  Advisory fees for the UBS Large Cap Growth Fund were for the period December
    29, 1997 through December 31, 1997. 
    


                                       48
<PAGE>
 
    
     

                                       49
<PAGE>
 
    Under Sub-Advisory Agreements with UBS Brinson, Inc., as the successor to
UBS Asset Management (New York) Inc. (the "Sub-Advisor"), UBS paid the Sub-
Advisor a monthly fee of the respective UBS Portfolios' average daily net assets
as follows:


UBS LARGE CAP GROWTH PORTFOLIO            0.30% of the first $25 million;
                                          0.25% of the next $25 million;
                                          and 0.20% over $50 million

UBS SMALL CAP PORTFOLIO                   0.40% of the first $25
                                          million; 0.325% of the next
                                          $25 million; and 0.25% over
                                          $50 million

UBS HIGH YIELD BOND PORTFOLIO             0.25% of the first $25 million;
                                          0.20% of the next $25 million;
                                          and 0.15% over $50 million

    
     UBS was responsible for paying the Sub-Advisor its fees. For the period
December 29, 1997 to December 31, 1997, UBS paid $100 to the Sub-Advisor on
behalf of the UBS Large Cap Growth Portfolio. For the period December 22, 1997
to December 31, 1997, UBS paid $1,250 and $535 to the Sub-Advisor on behalf of
the UBS Small Cap and UBS High Yield Bond Portfolios, respectively. For the
period January 1, 1998 to December 20, 1998, UBS paid $ 0 to the Sub-Advisor on
behalf of the UBS Large Cap Growth Portfolio, UBS Small Cap Portfolio and UBS
High Yield Bond Portfolio.    

     General expenses of the Trust (such as costs of maintaining corporate
existence, legal fees, insurance, etc.) will be allocated among the Series in
proportion to their relative net assets. Expenses which relate exclusively to a
particular Series, such as certain registration fees, brokerage commissions and
other portfolio expenses, will be borne directly by that Series.

ADMINISTRATOR

ADMINISTRATIVE, ACCOUNTING, TRANSFER AGENCY AND CUSTODIAN SERVICES

     Effective May 10, 1997, the Trust, on behalf of each Fund, entered into a
Multiple Services Agreement (the "Services Agreement") with Morgan Stanley Trust
Company, One Pierrepont Plaza, Brooklyn, New York 11201 ("MSTC"), pursuant to
which MSTC was required to provide general administrative, accounting, portfolio
valuation, transfer agency and custodian services to the Funds, including the
coordination and monitoring of any third party service providers. Effective
October 1, 1998, MSTC was merged into The Chase Manhattan Bank, 270 Park Avenue,
New York, New York 10017 ("Chase"), and Chase assumed all of MSTC's rights and
obligations under the Services Agreement.

     Custody Services. Chase provides custodian services for the securities and
cash of the Funds. The custody fee schedule is based primarily on the net amount
of assets held during the period for which payment is being made plus a per
transaction fee for transactions during the period and out-of-pocket expenses.
Effective October 1, 1998, Chase became the custodian of the Funds pursuant to
the Services Agreement as a result of the merger of MSTC into Chase.

                                       50
<PAGE>
 
     Investors Bank and Trust Company ("Investors Bank"), 200 Clarendon Street,
Boston, Massachusetts 02116, serves as co-custodian for the U.S. Large
Capitalization Growth Fund, the U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund and the
High Yield Fund with respect to certain foreign securities until such securities
are transferred to Chase. After such securities are transferred to Chase, Chase
will be the sole custodian for these Series under the terms of the Services
Agreement.

     As authorized under the Services Agreement, MSTC had entered into a Mutual
Funds Service Agreement (the "CGFSC Agreement") with Chase Global Funds Services
Company ("CGFSC"), a corporate affiliate of Chase, under which CGFSC provides
administrative, accounting, portfolio valuation and transfer agency services to
the Funds. Chase has assumed all of MSTC's rights and obligations under the
CGFSC Agreement. CGFSC's business address is 73 Tremont Street, Boston,
Massachusetts 02108-3913.

     Pursuant to the CGFSC Agreement, CGFSC provides:

     (1)  administrative services, including providing the necessary office
          space,  equipment and personnel to perform administrative and clerical
          services; preparing, filing and distributing proxy materials, periodic
          reports to investors, registration statements and other documents; and
          responding to investor inquiries;

     (2)  accounting and portfolio valuation services, including the daily
          calculation of each Fund's net asset value and the preparation of
          certain financial statements; and

     (3)  transfer agency services, including the maintenance of each investor's
          account records, responding to investors' inquiries concerning
          accounts,  processing purchases and redemptions of each Fund's shares,
          acting as dividend  and distribution disbursing agent and performing
          other service functions. Shareholder inquiries should be made to the
          transfer agent at 1-800-448-2430 (for the Brinson Fund-Class N and
          Brinson Fund-Class I) or 1-800-794-7753 (for the UBS Investment Funds
          class of shares).

     For its administrative, accounting, transfer agency and custodian services,
Chase receives the following as compensation from the Trust on an annual basis:
0.0025% of the average daily U.S. assets of the Trust; 0.0525% of the average
daily non-U.S. assets of the Trust; 0.3250% of the average daily emerging
markets equity assets of the Trust; and 0.019% of the average daily emerging
markets debt assets of the Trust. Chase receives an additional fee of 0.075% of
the average daily net assets of the Trust for administrative duties, the latter
subject to the expense limitation applicable to the Trust. No fee (asset based
or otherwise) is charged on any investments made by any fund into any other fund
sponsored or managed by the Advisor and assets of a fund that are invested in
another investment company or series thereof sponsored or managed by the Advisor
will not be counted in determining the 0.075% administrative duties fee or the
applicability of the expense limitation on such fee. The foregoing fees include
all out-of-pocket expenses or transaction charges incurred by Chase and any
third party service provider in providing such services.

     Also as authorized under the Services Agreement, Chase has entered into a
sub-administration agreement (the "FDI Agreement") with Funds Distributor, Inc.
("FDI") under which FDI provides administrative assistance to the Funds with
respect to: (i) regulatory matters, including regulatory developments and
examinations, (ii) all aspects of each Fund's day-to-day operations, (iii)
office facilities, clerical and administrative services, and (iv) maintenance of
books and records. FDI's business address is 60 State Street, Suite 1300,
Boston, Massachusetts 02109.

     Pursuant to the CGFSC Agreement and the FDI Agreement, Chase pays CGFSC and
FDI, respectively, for the services that CGFSC and FDI provide to Chase in
fulfilling Chase's obligations under the Services Agreement.

                                       51
<PAGE>
 
     For the fiscal years ended June 30, 1997 and June 30, 1998, aggregate fees
paid to MSTC for administration, accounting, portfolio valuation and transfer
agency services under the Services Agreement were as follows:

<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                                             MAY 10, 1997
                                            THROUGH FISCAL        FISCAL YEAR ENDED
SERIES*                                 YEAR END JUNE 30, 1997      JUNE 30, 1998
- ------                                  ----------------------      -------------
<S>                                     <C>                       <C>
GLOBAL FUND                                     $69,572                $464,398
GLOBAL EQUITY FUND                              $ 7,799                $  9,809
GLOBAL BOND FUND                                $ 3,707                $      0
U.S. BALANCED FUND                              $10,324                $ 79,503
U S. EQUITY FUND                                $12,495                $247,167
U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION EQUITY FUND           $     0                $      0
U.S. BOND FUND                                  $     0                $      0
GLOBAL (ex-U.S.) EQUITY FUND                    $17,159                $305,643
</TABLE>    

*    The U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth
Fund, High Yield Fund, Emerging Markets Debt and Emerging Markets Equity Funds
had not commenced operations as of the time periods indicated. Effective
December 10, 1998, the Non-U.S. Equity Fund changed its name to the Global (ex-
U.S.) Equity Fund.

     Until May 9, 1997, FPS Services, Inc., 3200 Horizon Drive, King of Prussia,
PA 19406-0903 ("FPS"), provided certain administrative services to the Trust
pursuant to an administration agreement (the "Administration Agreement").

     As compensation for services performed under the Administration Agreement,
FPS received a fee payable monthly at an annual rate multiplied by the average
daily net assets of the Trust.

                                       52
<PAGE>
 
     Administration fees paid to FPS were as follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                         FISCAL YEAR ENDED            JULY 1, 1996 THROUGH 
SERIES*                                    JUNE 30, 1996                  MAY 9, 1997
- ------                                     -------------                  -----------
<S>                                      <C>                          <C>
GLOBAL FUND                                   $293,601                      $271,364
GLOBAL EQUITY FUND                            $ 32,468                      $ 38,047
GLOBAL BOND FUND                              $ 29,216                      $ 25,412
U.S. BALANCED FUND                            $140,841                      $121,580
U.S. EQUITY FUND                              $ 58,286                      $ 76,534
U.S. BOND FUND                                $ 58,286                      $  6,542
GLOBAL (ex-U.S.) EQUITY FUND                  $119,433                      $122,780
</TABLE>

    
*    The U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund, U.S. Large Capitalization Growth
Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund, High Yield Fund, Emerging Markets
Debt Fund and Emerging Markets Equity Fund had not commenced operations as of
the time periods indicated. Effective December 10, 1998, the Non-U.S. Equity
Fund changed its name to the Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund.     

    
     Prior to the reorganization of the UBS Funds into the Trust, IBT Trust &
Custodial Services (Ireland) Limited ("IBT Ireland") and Investors Bank provided
certain administrative services to the UBS Portfolios and the UBS Funds,
respectively, pursuant to Administration Agreements. For its services under the
Administration Agreements, each corresponding UBS Portfolio paid IBT Ireland a
fee calculated daily and paid monthly equal, on an annual basis, to 0.07% of the
UBS Portfolio's first $100 million in average daily net assets and 0.05% of the
assets in excess of $100 million. For its services under the Administration
Agreements, each corresponding UBS Fund paid Investors Bank a fee calculated
daily and paid monthly equal, on an annual basis, to 0.065% of the UBS Fund's
first $100 million in average daily net assets and 0.025% of the next $100
million in average daily net assets. Investors Bank was not paid a fee from a
UBS Fund on average daily net assets in excess of $200 million.     

    
     Administrative fees paid to IBT Ireland by the UBS Portfolios were as
follows:
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                         COMMENCEMENT OF       JANUARY 1, 1998
                                      OPERATIONS** THROUGH         THROUGH 
SERIES*                                 DECEMBER 31, 1997     DECEMBER 18, 1998
- ------                                  -----------------     -----------------
<S>                                   <C>                     <C>
UBS LARGE CAP GROWTH PORTFOLIO                $2,096                $12,574
                                                                    
UBS SMALL CAP PORTFOLIO                       $3,362                $22,896
                                                                    
UBS HIGH YIELD BOND PORTFOLIO                 $1,870                $16,854
</TABLE>      

                                                                     
     Administrative fees paid to Investors Bank by the UBS Funds were as
follows:
<TABLE>     
<CAPTION>
                                         COMMENCEMENT OF               JANUARY 1, 1998
                                      OPERATIONS** THROUGH                 THROUGH 
SERIES*                                 DECEMBER 31, 1997             DECEMBER 18, 1998
- ------                                  -----------------             -----------------
<S>                                   <C>                             <C>
UBS LARGE CAP GROWTH FUND                    $  450                         $ 7,361
 
UBS SMALL CAP FUND                           $1,580                         $24,165
</TABLE>      

                                       53
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>     
<S>                                          <C>                            <C>     
UBS HIGH YIELD BOND FUND                     $1,185                         $21,515
</TABLE>      

    
     

    
     * Effective on December 19, 1998, the UBS Large Cap Growth Fund, UBS Small
Cap Fund and UBS High Yield Bond Fund were reorganized into the U.S. Large
Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund and High Yield
Fund, respectively. The U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small
Capitalization Growth Fund and High Yield Fund initially had fiscal years ending
on December 31. At the February 22, 1999 Board of Trustees' meeting, the Board
of Trustees' of the Trust voted to change the fiscal year end of these three
Funds to June 30.     

    
     **  The UBS Large Cap Growth Portfolio and its corresponding UBS Fund
commenced operations on October 14, 1997. The UBS Small Cap Portfolio and UBS
High Yield Bond Portfolio and their respective corresponding UBS Funds commenced
operations on September 30, 1997.     

INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
    
     Ernst & Young LLP, Chicago, Illinois, are the independent auditors of the
Trust.     

UNDERWRITER

     FDI, 60 State Street, Suite 1300, Boston, MA 02109, acts as an underwriter
of the Series' continuous offer of shares for the purpose of facilitating the
filing of notices regarding sale of the shares of the Series under state
securities laws and to assist in sales of shares pursuant to an underwriting
agreement (the "Underwriting Agreement") approved by the Board. In this regard,
FDI has agreed at its own expense to qualify as a broker-dealer under all
applicable federal or state laws in those states which the Trust shall from time
to time identify to FDI as states in which it wishes to offer the Series' shares
for sale, in order that state filings may be maintained for the Series. FDI does
not receive any compensation under the Underwriting Agreement.

     FDI is a broker-dealer registered with the SEC and a member in good
standing of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.

    
     The Trust does not impose any sales loads or redemption fees, except for a
transaction charge applicable to purchases of shares of the Emerging Markets
Equity Fund and Emerging Markets Debt Fund and to redemptions of shares of the
Emerging Markets Equity Fund. Each Series shall continue to

                                       54
<PAGE>
 
bear the expense of all filing fees incurred in connection with the filing of
notices regarding sale of shares under state securities laws.

     The Underwriting Agreement may be terminated by either party upon sixty
(60) days prior written notice to the other party, and if so terminated, the pro
rata portion of the unearned fee will be returned to the Trust.

DISTRIBUTION PLAN

     The Board has adopted a distribution plan (the "UBS Investment Plan")
pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Act, for each Series' UBS Investment Funds
class of shares and a separate distribution plan (the "Class N Plan") pursuant
to Rule 12b-1 under the Act, for each Series' Brinson Fund-Class N shares (the
UBS Investment Plan and the Class N Plan together, the "Plans"). The UBS
Investment Funds class of shares was formerly known as the SwissKey class of
shares. The name change was made effective on September 15, 1998. The Plans
permit each Series to reimburse FDI, Brinson Partners and others from the assets
of the UBS Investment Funds class of shares and Brinson Fund-Class N shares with
a quarterly fee for services and expenses incurred in distributing and promoting
sales of UBS Investment Funds class of shares and Brinson Fund-Class N shares,
respectively. These expenses include, but are not limited to, preparing and
distributing advertisements and sales literature, printing prospectuses and
reports used for sales purposes, and paying distribution and maintenance fees to
brokers, dealers and others in accordance with a selling agreement with the
Trust on behalf of the UBS Investment Funds class of shares and the Brinson 
Fund-Class N shares or FDI. In addition, each Series may make payments directly
to FDI for payment to dealers or others, or directly to others, such as banks,
who assist in the distribution of the UBS Investment Funds class of shares or
Brinson Fund-Class N shares or provide services with respect to the UBS
Investment Funds class of shares or Brinson Fund-Class N shares.

     UBS A.G., or one of its affiliates, pursuant to a selected dealer
agreement, may provide additional compensation to securities dealers from its
own resources in connection with sales of the UBS Investment Funds class of
shares or Brinson Fund-Class N shares of the Series.

     The aggregate distribution fees paid by the Series from the assets of the
respective UBS Investment Funds class of shares to FDI and others under the UBS
Investment Plan may not exceed 0.90% of a Fund's average daily net assets in any
year (0.25% of which are service fees to be paid by the Series to FDI, dealers
and others, for providing personal service and/or maintaining shareholder
accounts). The UBS Investment Plan provides, however, that the aggregate
distribution fees for each respective Fund shall not exceed the following
maximum amounts for the 1999 fiscal year: UBS Investment Fund-Global - 0.65%,
UBS Investment Fund-Global Equity - 0.76%, UBS Investment Fund-Global Bond -
0.49%, UBS Investment Fund-U.S. Balanced - 0.50%, UBS Investment Fund-U.S.
Equity-0.52%, UBS Investment Fund-U.S. Large Capitalization Equity - 0.52%, UBS
Investment Fund-U.S. Large Capitalization Growth - 0.77%, UBS Investment Fund-
U.S. Small Capitalization Growth - 0.77%, UBS Investment Fund-U.S. Bond - 0.47%,
UBS Investment Fund-High Yield - 0.85%, UBS Investment Fund-Global (ex-U.S.)
Equity - 0.84%, UBS Investment Fund-Emerging Markets Equity - 0.85% and UBS
Investment Fund-Emerging Markets Debt - 0.75%.

     The aggregate distribution fees paid by the Series from the assets of the
respective Brinson Fund-Class N shares to FDI and others under the Class N Plan
may not exceed 0.25% of a Fund's average daily net assets in any year.

     The UBS Investment Plan does not apply to the Brinson Fund-Class I or the
Brinson Fund-Class N shares of each Series and those shares are not included in
calculating the UBS Investment Plan's fees. The Class N Plan does not apply to
the Brinson Fund-Class I or the UBS Investment Funds class of shares of each
Series and those shares are not included in calculating the Class N Plan's fees.

                                       55
<PAGE>
 
     The quarterly fees paid to FDI under the Plans are subject to the review
and approval by the Trust's Trustees who are not "interested persons" of the
Advisor or FDI (as defined in the Act) and who may reduce the fees or terminate
the Plans at any time.

     Amounts spent on behalf of each UBS Investment Funds class of shares
pursuant to the UBS Investment Plan during the fiscal year ended June 30, 1998
are set forth below.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                         COMPENSATION  COMPENSATION  COMPENSATION TO
                              OF            OF          UBS SALES
FUND*         PRINTING   UNDERWRITERS    DEALERS        PERSONNEL     ADVERTISING     OTHER
==============================================================================================
<S>           <C>        <C>           <C>           <C>              <C>          <C>
UBS           $3,741.36         $0.00         $0.00      $215,695.93        $0.00  $ 64,708.62
Investment
Fund-Global

- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------- 
UBS           $8,392.57         $0.00         $0.00      $483,844.59        $0.00  $145,153.37
Investment
Fund-Global
Equity

- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UBS           $1,000.00         $0.00         $0.00      $ 34,008.30        $0.00  $ 10,202.99
Investment
Fund-Global
Bond

- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UBS           $1,000.00         $0.00         $0.00      $ 61,691.74        $0.00  $ 20,307.52
Investment
Fund-U.S.
Balanced

- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UBS           $5,825.06         $0.00         $0.00      $335,823.55        $0.00  $100,747.06
Investment
Fund-U.S.
Equity

- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UBS
Investment    $    0.00         $0.00         $0.00      $      0.00        $0.00  $      0.00
Fund-U.S.
Large
Capitalization 
Equity
 
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
 
UBS           $1,000.00         $0.00         $0.00      $ 11,891.51        $0.00  $  3,567.95
Investment
Fund-U.S.
Bond

- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
UBS           $1,000.00         $0.00         $0.00      $ 14,053.50        $0.00  $  4,216.05
Investment
Fund Global
(ex-U.S.)
Equity

- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>


     Amounts spent on behalf of each Brinson Fund - Class N class of shares
pursuant to the Class N Plan during the fiscal year ended June 30, 1998 are set
forth below.


<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                     COMPENSATION  COMPENSATION  COMPENSATION TO
                          OF            OF          UBS SALES
  FUND*    PRINTING  UNDERWRITER     DEALERS        PERSONNEL     ADVERTISING  OTHER
====================================================================================
<S>        <C>       <C>           <C>           <C>              <C>          <C>
Global        $0.00         $0.00     $  670.71            $0.00        $0.00  $0.00
Fund -
Class N
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Global        $0.00         $0.00     $    0.00            $0.00        $0.00  $0.00
Equity
Fund -
Class N
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Global        $0.00         $0.00     $    4.13            $0.00        $0.00  $0.00
Bond
Fund -
Class N
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S.          $0.00         $0.00     $    0.00            $0.00        $0.00  $0.00
Balanced
Fund -
Class N
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S.          $0.00         $0.00     $  148.66            $0.00        $0.00  $0.00
Equity
Fund -
Class N
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE> 

                                       56
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE> 
<CAPTION> 
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>           <C>           <C>       <C>                  <C>          <C>    <C>      
U.S. Large    $0.00         $0.00     $7,577.29            $0.00        $0.00  $0.00
Capitalization 
Equity Fund -
Class N
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Bond     $0.00         $0.00     $    0.00            $0.00        $0.00  $0.00
Fund -
Class N
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Global        $0.00         $0.00     $    5.40            $0.00        $0.00  $0.00
(ex-U.S.)
Equity Fund - 
Class N
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

    
     *  The U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization
     Growth Fund, High Yield Fund, Emerging Markets Equity Fund and Emerging
     Markets Debt Fund had not commenced operations as of the time period
     indicated. Effective December 10, 1998, the Non-U.S. Equity Fund changed
     its name to the Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund.     

     CODE OF ETHICS

          The Trust has adopted a Code of Ethics which establishes standards by
     which certain access persons of the Trust, which include officers of the
     Advisor and officers and Trustees of the Trust, must abide relating to
     personal securities trading conduct.

          Under the Code of Ethics, access persons are prohibited from engaging
     in certain conduct, including, but not limited to: 1) investing in
     companies in which the Series invest unless the securities have a broad
     public market and are registered on a national securities exchange or are
     traded in the over-the-counter markets; 2) making or maintaining an
     investment in any corporation or business with which the Series have
     business relationships if the investment might create, or give the
     appearance of creating, a conflict of interest; 3) participating in an
     initial public offering; 4) entering into a securities transaction when the
     access person knows or should know that such activity will anticipate,
     parallel or counter any securities transaction of a Series; 5) entering
     into any securities transaction, without prior approval, in connection with
     any security which has been designated as restricted; 6) entering into a
     net short position with respect to any security held by a Series; 7)
     entering into any derivative transaction when a direct transaction in the
     underlying security would be a violation; and 8) engaging in self-dealing
     or other transactions benefiting the access person at the expense of the
     Series or its shareholders.

          In addition, access persons are required to receive advance approval
     prior to purchasing or selling a restricted security, and may not buy or
     sell certain prohibited securities. The Advisor will identify for access
     persons prohibited securities, which include securities that are being
     considered for purchase or sale by any account or fund managed by the
     Advisor, and provide a list of such securities to all access persons.
     Access persons are required to file quarterly reports of security
     investment transactions. Trustees or officers who are not "interested
     persons" of the Trust, as defined in the Act, need only report a
     transaction in a security if such Trustee or officer, at the time of the
     transaction, knew or should have known, in the ordinary course of
     fulfilling his or her official duties as a Trustee or officer, that, during
     the 15-day period immediately preceding or after the date of the
     transaction by the Trustee or officer, such security was purchased or sold
     by a Series, or was being considered for purchase by a Series.

     PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS AND BROKERAGE COMMISSIONS

          Brinson Partners is responsible for decisions to buy and sell
     securities for the Series and for the placement of the Series' portfolio
     business and the negotiation of commissions, if any, paid on such
     transactions. Fixed income securities in which the Series invest are traded
     in the over-the-counter market. These securities are generally traded on a
     net basis with dealers acting as principal for their own accounts without a
     stated commission, although the bid/ask spread quoted on securities
     includes an implicit profit to the dealers. In over-the-counter
     transactions, orders are placed directly with a principal market-maker
     unless a better price and execution can be obtained by using a broker.
     Brokerage commissions are paid on 

                                       57
<PAGE>
 
     transactions in listed securities, futures contracts and options thereon.
     Brinson Partners is responsible for effecting portfolio transactions and
     will do so in a manner deemed fair and reasonable to the Series. Under its
     advisory agreements with the Global Funds and the Global (ex-U.S.) Equity
     Fund, Brinson Partners is authorized to utilize the trading desk of its
     foreign subsidiaries to execute foreign securities transactions, but
     monitors the selection by such subsidiaries of brokers and dealers used to
     execute transactions for those Series. The primary consideration in all
     portfolio transactions will be prompt execution of orders in an efficient
     manner at the most favorable price. However, subject to policies
     established by the Board of the Trust, a Series may pay a broker-dealer a
     commission for effecting a portfolio transaction for the Series in excess
     of the amount of commission another broker-dealer would have charged if
     Brinson Partners determines in good faith that the commission paid was
     reasonable in relation to the brokerage or research services provided by
     such broker-dealer, viewed in terms of that particular transaction or such
     firm's overall responsibilities with respect to the clients, including the
     Series, as to which it exercises investment discretion. In selecting and
     monitoring broker-dealers and negotiating commissions, Brinson Partners
     considers the firm's reliability, the quality of its execution services on
     a continuing basis and its financial condition. When more than one firm is
     believed to meet these criteria, preference may be given to brokers who
     provide research or statistical material or other services to the Series or
     to Brinson Partners. Such services include advice, both directly and in
     writing, as to the value of the securities; the advisability of investing
     in, purchasing or selling securities; and the availability of securities,
     or purchasers or sellers of securities, as well as analyses and reports
     concerning issues, industries, securities, economic factors and trends,
     portfolio strategy and the performance of accounts. This allows Brinson
     Partners to supplement its own investment research activities and obtain
     the views and information of others prior to making investment decisions.
     Brinson Partners is of the opinion that, because this material must be
     analyzed and reviewed by its staff, its receipt and use does not tend to
     reduce expenses but may benefit the Series by supplementing the Advisor's
     research.

          Brinson Partners effects portfolio transactions for other investment
     companies and advisory accounts. Research services furnished by dealers
     through whom the Series effect their securities transactions may be used by
     Brinson Partners in servicing all of its accounts; not all such services
     may be used in connection with the Series. In the opinion of Brinson
     Partners, it is not possible to measure separately the benefits from
     research services to each of the accounts (including the Series). Brinson
     Partners will attempt to equitably allocate portfolio transactions among
     the Series and others whenever concurrent decisions are made to purchase or
     sell securities by the Series and another. In making such allocations
     between the Series and others, the main factors to be considered are 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 recommending investments to the
     Series and the others. In some cases, this procedure could have an adverse
     effect on the Series. In the opinion of Brinson Partners, however, the
     results of such procedures will, on the whole, be in the best interest of
     each of the clients.

          When buying or selling securities, the Series may pay commissions to
     brokers who are affiliated with the Advisor or the Series. The Series may
     purchase securities in certain underwritten offerings for which an
     affiliate of the Series or the Advisor may act as an underwriter. The
     Series may effect future transactions through, and pay commissions to,
     futures commission merchants who are affiliated with the Advisor or the
     Series in accordance with procedures adopted by the Board.

          The Series incurred brokerage commissions as follows:

<TABLE>   
<CAPTION>
                          FISCAL YEAR ENDED      FISCAL YEAR ENDED      FISCAL YEAR ENDED
SERIES                      JUNE 30, 1996*         JUNE 30, 1997*         JUNE 30, 1998*
- ------                      --------------         --------------         --------------
<S>                       <C>                    <C>                    <C>
GLOBAL FUND                    $327,191               $385,571               $442,603
GLOBAL EQUITY FUND             $123,467               $142,922               $166,103
GLOBAL BOND FUND               $      0               $      0               $      0
U.S. BALANCED FUND             $ 99,554               $139,165               $ 85,784
U.S. EQUITY FUND               $105,887               $290,526               $560,721
</TABLE>     

                                       58
<PAGE>
 
<TABLE>     
<S>                                    <C>               <C>               <C> 
U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION
 EQUITY FUND
                                       $      0          $      0          $  9,714
 
U.S. BOND FUND                         $      0          $      0          $      0
GLOBAL (ex-U.S.) EQUITY FUND*
                                       $322,915          $833,293          $942,115
</TABLE>     

    
*    The U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund commenced operations on April 6,
1998. The U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, the U.S. Small Capitalization
Growth Fund, the High Yield Fund, the Emerging Markets Debt Fund and the
Emerging Markets Equity Fund had not commenced operations as of the time periods
indicated. Effective December 10, 1998, the Non-U.S. Equity Fund changed its
name to the Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund.     

     For the fiscal year ended June 30, 1998, the Global Fund, U.S. Balanced
Fund, U.S. Equity Fund and U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund paid brokerage
commissions to Warburg Dillon Read ("Warburg"), an affiliated broker-dealer, as
follows:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                       AGGREGATE                                                                            
                                   DOLLAR AMOUNT OF                                          % OF AGGREGATE DOLLAR AMOUNT   
                                   COMMISSIONS PAID          % OF AGGREGATE  COMMISSIONS               PAID TO              
FUND                                  TO WARBURG                   PAID TO WARBURG                     WARBURG              
- ----                                  ----------                   ---------------                     -------
<S>                                <C>                       <C>                             <C>
GLOBAL FUND                             $ 6,078                          1.37%                           0.78%
U.S. BALANCED FUND                      $ 2,190                          2.55%                           0.27%
U.S. EQUITY FUND                        $93,356                         16.65%                          21.43%
U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION                                               
 EQUITY FUND                                                            
                                        $   453                          4.66%                           5.16%
</TABLE>

          For the fiscal year ended June 30, 1998, the Trust and the Advisor had
no agreements or understandings with a broker or otherwise causing brokerage
transactions or commissions for research services.

          The U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization
Growth Fund and High Yield Fund, and the UBS Funds that were merged into the
Funds, incurred brokerage commissions as follows:

<TABLE>    
<CAPTION>
                                       COMMENCEMENT OF                                                                
                                    OPERATIONS ** THROUGH       JANUARY 1, 1998 THROUGH         DECEMBER 19, 1998    
SERIES*                               DECEMBER 31, 1997            DECEMBER 18, 1998        THROUGH DECEMBER 31, 1998 
- -------                               -----------------            -----------------        -------------------------
<S>                               <C>                         <C>                           <C>
U.S. LARGE CAPITALIZATION
 GROWTH FUND                              $18,270***                    $31,628***                     $   25 
                                                                                                                      
U.S. SMALL CAPITALIZATION
 GROWTH FUND                              $30,680***                    $52,862***                     $4,722 
                                                                                                                      
HIGH YIELD FUND                           $   N/A***                    $   N/A***                     $    0
</TABLE>     

    
     

    
     * The U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization
Growth Fund and High Yield Fund commenced operations effective on December 19,
1998.  Effective on December 21, 1998, the UBS Large Cap Growth Fund, UBS Small
Cap Fund and UBS High Yield Bond Fund were reorganized into the U.S. Large
Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund and High Yield
Fund,      

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<PAGE>
 
    
respectively. The U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small
Capitalization Growth Fund and High Yield Fund initially had fiscal years
ending on December 31. At the February 22, 1999 Board of Trustees' meeting, the
Board of Trustees of the Trust voted to change the fiscal year end of these
three Funds to June 30.     
    
     ** The UBS Large Cap Growth Fund commenced operations on October 14, 1997.
The UBS Small Cap Fund and UBS High Yield Bond Fund commenced operations on
September 30, 1997.     
    
     *** Prior to the reorganization of the UBS Funds into the corresponding
series of the Trust, each of the UBS Funds invested substantially all of its
investable assets in corresponding series of the UBS Investor Portfolios Trust
(collectively, the "UBS Portfolios").  As a result, the UBS Funds did not incur
brokerage commissions.  The brokerage commissions reflected were incurred by the
UBS Portfolios.     

PORTFOLIO TURNOVER

     The Series are free to dispose of their portfolio securities at any time,
subject to complying with the Code and the Act, when changes in circumstances or
conditions make such a move desirable in light of the respective investment
objective. The Series will not attempt to achieve or be limited to a
predetermined rate of portfolio turnover, such a turnover always being
incidental to transactions undertaken with a view to achieving that Series'
investment objective.

     The Series do not intend to use short-term trading as a primary means of
achieving their investment objectives. The rate of portfolio turnover shall be
calculated by dividing (a) the lesser of purchases and sales of portfolio
securities for the particular fiscal year by (b) the monthly average of the
value of the portfolio securities owned by that Series during the particular
fiscal year. Such monthly average shall be calculated by totaling the values of
the portfolio securities as of the beginning and end of the first month of the
particular fiscal year and as of the end of each of the succeeding eleven months
and dividing the sum by 13.

     Under normal circumstances, the portfolio turnover rate for the Global
Equity Fund, U.S. Equity Fund, U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund and Global
(ex-U.S.) Equity Fund is not expected to exceed 100%. The portfolio turnover
rates for the Global Fund, Global Bond Fund, Emerging Markets Equity Fund and
Emerging Markets Debt Fund may exceed 100% and in some years, 200%.  The
portfolio turnover rate for the U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund may exceed
150%, and for the U.S. Balanced Fund and U.S. Bond Fund, may exceed 100% and in
some years, 300%. High portfolio turnover rates (over 100%) may involve
correspondingly greater brokerage commissions and other transaction costs, which
will be borne directly by the Series and ultimately by that Series'
shareholders. In addition, high portfolio turnover may result in increased
short-term capital gains, which, when distributed to shareholders, are treated
as ordinary income.

     With respect to the Global Fund, for the fiscal years ended June 30, 1997
and June 30, 1998, the portfolio turnover rate of the Series was 150% and 88%,
respectively.  With respect to the Global Bond Fund, for the fiscal years ended
June 30, 1997 and June 30, 1998, the portfolio turnover rate of the Series was
235% and 151%, respectively. With respect to the U.S. Balanced Fund, for the
fiscal years ended June 30, 1997 and June 30, 1998, the portfolio turnover rate
of the Series was 329% and 194%, respectively.  With respect to the U.S. Bond
Fund, for the fiscal years ended June 30, 1997 and June 30, 1998, the portfolio
turnover rate of the Series was 410% and 198%, respectively. With respect to the
Global Equity Fund, for the fiscal years ended June 30, 1997 and June 30, 1998,
the portfolio turnover rate of the Series was 32% and 46%, respectively.  With
respect to the Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund, for the fiscal years ended June 30,
1997 and June 30, 1998, the portfolio turnover rate of the Series was 25% and
49%, respectively.  With respect to the U.S. Equity Fund, for the fiscal years
ended June 30, 1997 and June 30, 1998, the portfolio turnover rate of the Series
was 43% and 42%, respectively.  With respect to the U.S. Large Capitalization
Equity Fund, for the period April 6, 1998 (commencement of operations) to June
30, 1998, the portfolio turnover rate of the Series was 12%.  With respect to
the High Yield Fund 

                                       60
<PAGE>
 
    
for the period September 30, 1997 (commencement of operations) to December
31, 1997, the portfolio turnover rate was 80%. The portfolio turnover rate for
the High Yield Fund reflects the portfolio turnover rate for UBS Investor
Portfolios Trust - UBS High Yield Bond Portfolio. With respect to the U.S. Large
Capitalization Growth Fund, for the period October 14, 1997 (commencement of
operations) to December 31, 1997, the portfolio turnover rate was 6%. The
portfolio turnover rate for the U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund reflects
the portfolio turnover rate for UBS Investor Portfolios Trust - UBS Large Cap
Growth Portfolio. With respect to the U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund, for
the period September 30, 1997 (commencement of operations) to December 31, 1997,
the portfolio turnover rate was 3%. The portfolio turnover rate for the U.S.
Small Capitalization Growth Fund reflects the portfolio turnover rate for UBS
Investor Portfolios Trust - UBS Small Cap Portfolio. Any significant variation
in portfolio turnover rates over such periods was due to an increase in the
assets of the Series which caused the Series to reposition their portfolio
holdings in order to meet their investment objectives and policies.     

SHARES OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST

     Each Series is authorized to issue an unlimited number of shares of
beneficial interest with a $0.001 par value per share. Each share of beneficial
interest represents an equal proportionate interest in the assets and
liabilities of the applicable Series and has identical voting, dividend,
redemption, liquidation, and other rights and preferences as the other class of
that Series, except that only shares of the UBS Investment Funds class may vote
on any matter affecting only the UBS Investment Plan under Rule 12b-1.
Similarly, only shares of the Brinson Fund-Class N may vote on matters that
affect only the Class N Plan. No class may vote on matters that affect only
another class. Under Delaware law, the Trust does not normally hold annual
meetings of shareholders. Shareholders' meetings may be held from time to time
to consider certain matters including changes to a Series' fundamental
investment objective and fundamental investment policies, changes to the Trust's
investment advisory agreement and the election of Trustees when required by the
Act. When matters are submitted to shareholders for a vote, shareholders are
entitled to one vote per share with proportionate voting for fractional shares.
The shares of the Series do not have cumulative voting rights or any preemptive
or conversion rights, and the Trustees have authority from time to time to
divide or combine the shares of the Series into a greater or lesser number of
shares so affected. In the case of a liquidation of a Series, each shareholder
of the Series will be entitled to share, based upon the shareholder's percentage
share ownership, in the distribution out of assets, net of liabilities, of the
Series. No shareholder is liable for further calls or assessment by the Series.

     On any matters affecting only one Series or class, only the shareholders of
that Series or class are entitled to vote. On matters relating to the Trust but
affecting the Series differently, separate votes by the Series or class are
required. With respect to the submission to shareholder vote of a matter
requiring separate voting by a Series or class, the matter shall have been
effectively acted upon with respect to any Series or class if a majority of the
outstanding voting securities of that Series or class votes for the approval of
the matter, notwithstanding that: (1) the matter has not been approved by a
majority of the outstanding voting securities of any other Series or class; and
(2) the matter has not been approved by a majority of the outstanding voting
securities of the Trust.

     The Trustees of the Trust do not intend to hold annual meetings of
shareholders of the Series. The SEC, however, requires the Trustees to promptly
call a meeting for the purpose of voting upon the question of removal of any
Trustee when requested to do so by not less than 10% of the outstanding
shareholders of the respective Series. In addition, subject to certain
conditions, shareholders of each Series may apply to the Series to communicate
with other shareholders to request a shareholders' meeting to vote upon the
removal of a Trustee or Trustees.

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<PAGE>
 
     Currently, the Trust offers thirteen Series: Global Fund, Global Equity
Fund, Global Bond Fund, U.S. Balanced Fund, U.S. Equity Fund, U.S. Large
Capitalization Equity Fund, U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small
Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Bond Fund, High Yield Fund, Global (ex-U.S.)
Equity Fund, Emerging Markets Equity Fund and Emerging Markets Debt Fund. Three
classes of shares are currently issued by the Trust for each Series: the Brinson
Fund-Class N, Brinson Fund-Class I and UBS Investment Funds classes. Prior to
September 15, 1998, the "UBS Investment Funds class" of shares was known as the
"SwissKey Class" of shares.

PURCHASES

    
     Shares of each class of each Series are sold at the net asset value (plus
transaction charges applicable to purchases of shares of the Emerging Markets
Equity Fund and Emerging Markets Debt Fund) next determined after the receipt of
a purchase application in proper form by the transfer agent. There is no sales
load in connection with the purchase of Fund shares. The Trust reserves the
right to reject any purchase order and to suspend the offering of shares of the
Brinson Fund-Class I shares, Brinson Fund-Class N shares, UBS Investment Funds
class of shares or any Series. The minimum for initial investments with respect
to the Brinson Fund-Class I for each Series is $1,000,000; subsequent investment
minimums are $2,500. The minimum for initial investments with respect to the UBS
Investment Funds class of shares for each Series is $25,000; subsequent
investment minimums are $5,000. The minimum for initial investments with respect
to the Brinson Fund-Class N for each Series is $1,000,000. The Trust reserves
the right to vary the initial investment minimum and minimums for additional
investments in any of the Funds at any time. In addition, Brinson Partners may
waive the minimum initial investment requirement for any investor.     

     The Brinson Fund-Class N shares and UBS Investment Funds class of shares
may be purchased through broker-dealers having sales agreements with FDI, or
through financial institutions having agency agreements with FDI. The Brinson
Fund-Class N shares and UBS Investment Funds class of shares are subject to
annual 12b-1 plan expenses of 0.25% and 0.90% (0.25% of which are service fees
to be paid by the Funds to FDI, dealers or others for providing personal service
and/or maintaining shareholder accounts), respectively, of the Funds' average
daily net assets of such share class. The Brinson Fund-Class N shares may also,
and the UBS Investment Funds will, be marketed directly through the offices of
UBS A.G. Through its branches and subsidiaries, UBS A.G. conducts securities
research, provides investment advisory services and manages mutual funds in
major cities throughout the world, including Amsterdam, Basel, Frankfurt,
Geneva, Hong Kong, Houston, London, Los Angeles, Luxembourg, Miami, Monte Carlo,
New York, Paris, San Francisco, Singapore, Sydney, Tokyo, Toronto and Zurich.

     Purchase orders for shares of the Funds which are received by the transfer
agent in proper form prior to the close of regular trading hours (currently 4:00
p.m. Eastern time) on the New York Stock Exchange (the "NYSE") on any day that
the Funds' net asset values per share are calculated, are priced according to
the net asset value determined on that day. Purchase orders for shares of the
Funds received after the close of the NYSE on a particular day are priced as of
the time the net asset value per share is next determined. The Funds reserve the
right to change the time at which purchases are priced if the NYSE closes at a
time other than 4:00 p.m. Eastern time or if an emergency exists.

     Under certain circumstances, the Trust has entered into one or more
agreements (each, a "Sales Agreement") with brokers, dealers or financial
institutions (each, an "Authorized Dealer") under which the Authorized Dealer
may directly, or through intermediaries that the Authorized Dealer is authorized
to designate under the Sales Agreement (each, a "Sub-designee"), accept
purchase and redemption orders that are in "good form" on behalf of the Funds.
A Fund will be deemed to have received a purchase order when the Authorized
Dealer or Sub-designee accepts the purchase order and such order will be priced
at the Fund's net asset value next computed after such order is accepted by the
Authorized Dealer or Sub-designee.

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<PAGE>
 
     The Trust may accept telephone orders for Fund shares from broker-dealers
or service organizations which have been previously approved by the Trust. It is
the responsibility of such broker-dealers or service organizations to promptly
forward purchase orders and payments for the same to the Fund. Shares of the
Funds may be purchased through broker-dealers, banks and bank trust departments
which may charge the investor a transaction fee or other fee for their services
at the time of purchase. Such fees would not otherwise be charged if the shares
were purchased directly from the Trust.

     Brinson Partners, or its affiliates, from its own resources, may compensate
broker-dealers or other financial intermediaries ("Service Providers") for
marketing, shareholder servicing, recordkeeping and/or other services performed
with respect to a Fund's Class N shares, Class I shares and UBS Investment Funds
class of shares. Payments made for any of these purposes may be made from its
revenues, its profits or any other sources available to it. When such service
arrangements are in effect, they are made generally available to all qualified
Service Providers.

     Certificates representing shares purchased are not issued. However, such
purchases are confirmed to the investor and credited to the shareholder's
account on the books maintained by the Trust's transfer agent. The investor will
have the same rights of ownership with respect to such shares as if certificates
had been issued.

EXCHANGES OF SHARES

     Shares of one class of a Series may only be exchanged for the same class of
another Series of the Trust. Exchanges will not be permitted between the
different classes. Exchanges may be made only for shares of a Series and class
then offering its shares for sale in your state of residence and are subject to
the minimum initial investment requirement.

     Each qualifying exchange will be made on the basis of the relative net
asset values per share of both the Series from which, and the Series into which,
the exchange is made, that is next computed following receipt of the exchange
order in proper form by the Trust's transfer agent. Transaction charges
applicable to purchases and redemptions of shares of the Emerging Markets Equity
Fund and purchases of shares of the Emerging Markets Debt Fund will apply to
exchanges of shares into these funds and to exchanges of shares out of the
Emerging Markets Equity Fund. Exchanges may be made by telephone if the
shareholder's Account Application Form includes specific authorization for
telephone exchanges. The telephone exchange privilege may be difficult to
implement during times of drastic economic or market changes.

     The transactions described above will result in a taxable gain or loss for
federal income tax purposes. Generally, any such taxable gain or loss will be a
capital gain or loss (long-term or short-term, depending on the holding period
of the shares) in the amount of the difference between the net asset value of
the shares surrendered and the shareholder's tax basis for those shares. Each
investor should consult his or her tax adviser regarding the tax consequences of
an exchange transaction.

     Any shareholder who wishes to make an exchange should first obtain and
review the Prospectus of the Series to be acquired in the exchange. Requests for
telephone exchanges must be received prior to the close of regular trading on
the NYSE (currently 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on any day on which the NYSE is open
for regular trading. The Funds reserve the right to change the time at which
exchanges are priced if the NYSE closes at a time other than 4:00 p.m. Eastern
time or if an emergency exists.

     At the discretion of the Trust, this exchange privilege may be terminated
or modified at any time for any of the participating Series upon 60 days' prior
written notice to shareholders. Contact the transfer agent for details about a
particular exchange.

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<PAGE>
 
TRANSFER OF SECURITIES

     At the discretion of the Trust, investors may be permitted to purchase Fund
shares by transferring securities to a Series that meet the Series' investment
objective and policies. Securities transferred to a Series will be valued in
accordance with the same procedures used to determine the Fund's net asset value
at the time of the next determination of net asset value after such acceptance.
Shares issued by a Series in exchange for securities will be issued at net asset
value per share of the Fund determined as of the same time. All dividends,
interest, subscription, or other rights pertaining to such securities shall
become the property of the Series and must be delivered to the Series by the
investor upon receipt from the issuer. Investors who are permitted to transfer
such securities will be required to recognize a gain or loss on such transfer
and pay tax thereon, if applicable, measured by the difference between the fair
market value of the securities and the investors' basis therein. Securities will
not be accepted in exchange for shares of a Fund unless: (1) such securities
are, at the time of the exchange, eligible to be included in the Series'
portfolio and current market quotations are readily available for such
securities; (2) the investor represents and warrants that all securities offered
to be exchanged are not subject to any restrictions upon their sale by the
Series under the 1933 Act, or under the laws of the country in which the
principal market for such securities exists, or otherwise; and (3) the value of
any such security (except U.S. government securities) being exchanged, together
with other securities of the same issuer owned by the Series, will not exceed 5%
of the Series' net assets immediately after the transaction.

NET ASSET VALUE

     The net asset value per share is calculated separately for each class of
each Series. The net asset value per share of a class of a Series is computed by
dividing the value of the assets related to that class of the Series, less the
liabilities related to that class, by the number of shares of the class of the
Series outstanding.

     Each class of a Series will bear pro rata all of the common expenses of
that Series. The net asset values of all outstanding shares of each class of a
Series will be computed on a pro rata basis for each outstanding share based on
the proportionate participation in the Series represented by the value of shares
of that Series. All income earned and expenses incurred by a Series will be
borne on a pro rata basis by each outstanding share of a class, based on each
class' percentage in the Series represented by the value of such shares of such
classes, except that none of the shares of a class will incur any of the
expenses under the 12b-1 plan of another class.

     Portfolio securities are valued and net asset value per share is determined
as of the close of regular trading on the NYSE which currently is 4:00 p.m.
Eastern time on each day the NYSE is open for trading. The Series of the Trust
reserve the right to change the time at which purchases, redemptions or
exchanges are priced if the NYSE closes at a time other than 4:00 p.m. Eastern
time or if an emergency exists. The NYSE is open for trading on every day except
Saturdays, Sundays and the following holidays: New Year's Day, Dr. Martin Luther
King, Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day (day observed),
Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day and on the
preceding Friday or subsequent Monday when any of these holidays falls on a
Saturday or Sunday, respectively.

     Portfolio securities listed on a national or foreign securities exchange
are valued on the basis of the last sale on the date the valuation is made.
Securities that are not traded on a particular day or an exchange, are valued at
either (a) the bid price or (b) a valuation within the range considered best to
represent value in the circumstances. Price information on listed securities is
generally taken from the closing price on the exchange where the security is
primarily traded. Other portfolio securities which are traded in the over-the-
counter market are valued at the bid price as long as the bid price, in the
opinion of the Advisor, continues to reflect the value of the security.
Valuations of fixed income and equity securities may be obtained from a pricing
service and/or broker-dealers when such prices are believed to

                                       64
<PAGE>
 
reflect the fair value of such securities. Use of a pricing service and/or
broker-dealers has been approved by the Board.

     Futures contracts are valued at their daily quoted settlement price on the
exchange on which they are traded. Forward foreign currency contracts are valued
daily using the mean between the bid and asked forward points added to the
current exchange rate and an unrealized gain or loss is recorded. A Series
realizes a gain or loss upon settlement of the contracts. Swaps will be priced
at fair value based on (1) swap prices provided by broker-dealers; (2) values,
or estimates of values, of the applicable equity indices and foreign rates
underlying the contracts; and (3) consideration of other relevant factors. A
Series' obligation under a swap agreement will be accrued daily (offset by any
amounts owing to the portfolio) and any accrued but unpaid net amounts owed to a
swap counterparty will be covered by the maintenance of a segregated account
consisting of Segregated Assets. For valuation purposes, foreign securities
initially expressed in foreign currency values will be converted into U.S.
dollar values using WM/Reuters closing spot rates as of 4:00 p.m. London time.
Securities with a remaining maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized
cost, which approximates market value. Fixed income securities having a
remaining maturity of over 60 days are valued at market price. Debt securities
are valued on the basis of prices provided by a pricing service, or at the bid
price where readily available, as long as the bid price, in the opinion of the
Advisor, continues to reflect the value of the security. Redeemable securities
issued by open-end investment companies are valued using their respective net
asset values for purchase orders placed at the close of the NYSE. Securities
(including over-the-counter options) for which market quotations are not readily
available and other assets are valued at their fair value as determined in good
faith by or under the direction of the Trustees.

     Because of time zone differences, foreign exchanges and securities markets
will usually be closed prior to the time of the closing of the NYSE and values
of foreign futures and options and foreign securities will be determined as of
the earlier closing of such exchanges and securities markets. However, events
affecting the values of such foreign securities may occasionally occur between
the earlier closings of such exchanges and securities markets and the closing of
the NYSE which will not be reflected in the computation of the net asset value
of a Series. If an event materially affecting the value of such foreign
securities occurs during such period, then such securities will be valued at
fair value as determined in good faith by or under the direction of the Board.
Where a foreign securities market remains open at the time that a Series values
its portfolio securities, or closing prices of securities from that market may
not be retrieved because of local time differences or other difficulties in
obtaining such prices at that time, last sale prices in such market at a point
in time most practicable to timely valuation of the Series may be used.

     Due to the specific distribution expenses and other costs that will be
allocable to each class, the dividends paid to each class, and related
performance, of the Series may vary. The per share net asset value of the
Brinson Fund-Class N shares and the UBS Investment Funds class of shares will
generally be lower than that of the Brinson Fund-Class I shares of a Series
because of the higher expenses borne by the UBS Investment Funds class of shares
and the Brinson Fund-Class N shares. It is expected, however, that the net asset
value per share of the two classes will tend to converge immediately after the
payment of dividends, which will differ by approximately the amount of the
service and distribution expenses differential among the classes.

REDEMPTIONS

     Under normal circumstances shareholders may redeem their shares at any time
without a fee, except for the transaction charge applicable to redemptions of
shares of the Emerging Markets Equity Fund. The redemption price will be based
upon the net asset value per share (less the transaction charge applicable to
redemptions of shares of the Emerging Markets Equity Fund) next determined after
receipt of the redemption request, provided it has been submitted in the manner
described below. The redemption price may be more or less than the original
cost, depending upon the net asset value per share at the time of redemption.

                                       65
<PAGE>
 
     Payment for shares tendered for redemption is made by check within five
business days after tender in proper form, except that the Trust reserves the
right to suspend the right of redemption, or to postpone the date of payment
upon redemption beyond five business days, (i) for any period during which the
NYSE is closed (other than customary weekend and holiday closings) or during
which trading on the NYSE is restricted, (ii) for any period during which an
emergency exists as determined by the SEC as a result of which disposal of
securities owned by a Series is not reasonably practicable or it is not
reasonably practicable for the Series fairly to determine the value of its net
assets, or (iii) for such other periods as the SEC may by order permit for the
protection of shareholders of the Series.

     Shares of the Funds may be redeemed through certain broker-dealers, banks
and bank trust departments who may charge the investor a transaction fee or
other fee for their services at the time of redemption. Such fees would not
otherwise be charged if the shares were redeemed directly from the Trust.

     Under the Sales Agreement, the Authorized Dealer or Sub-designee is
authorized to accept redemption orders on behalf of the Funds. A Fund will be
deemed to have received a redemption order when the Authorized Dealer or Sub-
designee accepts the redemption order and such order will be priced at the
Fund's net asset value next computed after such order is accepted by the
Authorized Dealer or Sub-designee.

     The Trust will satisfy redemption requests in cash to the fullest extent
feasible, so long as such payments would not, in the opinion of Brinson Partners
or the Board, result in the necessity of a Series selling assets under
disadvantageous conditions and to the detriment of the remaining shareholders of
the Series. Pursuant to the Trust's Agreement and Declaration of Trust, payment
for shares redeemed may be made either in cash or in-kind, or partly in cash and
partly in-kind. Under unusual circumstances, when the Board deems it in the best
interest of the Series' shareholders, the Trust may make payment for shares
repurchased or redeemed in whole or in part in securities of the Series taken at
current values. With respect to such redemptions in kind, the Trust has made an
election pursuant to Rule 18f-1 under the Act. This will require the Trust to
redeem in cash at a shareholder's election in any case where the redemption
involves less than $250,000 (or 1% of the Series' net asset value at the
beginning of each 90 day period during which such redemptions are in effect, if
that amount is less than $250,000), during any 90-day period for any one
shareholder. Should payment be made in securities, the redeeming shareholder may
incur brokerage costs in converting such securities to cash. In-kind payments to
non-affiliated shareholders need not constitute a cross-section of a Series'
portfolio. Where a shareholder has requested redemption of all or a part of the
shareholder's investment and where a Series computes such redemption in-kind,
the Series will not recognize gain or loss for federal tax purposes on the
securities used to compute the redemption, but the shareholder will recognize
gain or loss equal to the difference between the fair market value of the
securities received and the shareholder's basis in the Fund shares redeemed.
Pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the SEC, the Trust is permitted to pay
redemptions in-kind to shareholders that are affiliated persons of the Funds by
nature of a greater than 5% ownership interest in the Funds. Any such
redemptions in-kind would be undertaken in compliance with the order's
condition.

     Due to the relatively high cost of maintaining smaller accounts, the Trust
reserves the right to involuntarily redeem UBS Investment Funds class of shares
in any Fund account for their then current net asset value (which will be
promptly paid to the shareholder) if at any time the total investment does not
have a value of at least $1,000 as a result of redemptions and not due to
changes in the asset value of the Series. The shareholder will be notified that
the value of his or her Fund account is less than the required minimum and will
be allowed at least 60 days to bring the value of the account up to the minimum
before the redemption is processed.

     Shareholders who wish to initiate purchase, exchange or redemption
transactions by telephone must elect the option either on the initial
application or by subsequently arranging it in writing. With respect to such
telephone transactions, the Funds will ensure that reasonable procedures are
used to confirm that instructions communicated by telephone are genuine
(including verification of the shareholder's social security number or mother's
maiden name) and, if they do not, the Funds or the transfer agent may be liable
for any losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent transactions. Written

                                       66
<PAGE>
 
confirmation will be provided for all purchase, exchange and redemption
transactions initiated by telephone.

TAXATION

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ON DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES

DISTRIBUTIONS

     DISTRIBUTIONS OF NET INVESTMENT INCOME. Each Series receives income
generally in the form of dividends and interest on its investments. This income,
less expenses incurred in the operation, constitute a Series' net investment
income from which dividends may be paid to you. Any distributions by a Series
from such income will be taxable to you as ordinary income, whether you take
them in cash or in additional shares.

     DISTRIBUTIONS OF CAPITAL GAINS. A Series may derive capital gains and
losses in connection with sales or other dispositions of its portfolio
securities. Distributions derived from the excess of net short-term capital gain
over net long-term capital loss will be taxable to you as ordinary income.
Distributions paid from long-term capital gains realized by a Series will be
taxable to you as long-term capital gain, regardless of how long you have held
your shares in the Series. Any net short-term or long-term capital gains
realized by a Series (net of any capital loss carryovers) generally will be
distributed once each year, and may be distributed more frequently, if
necessary, in order to reduce or eliminate federal excise or income taxes on the
Series.

     EFFECT OF FOREIGN INVESTMENTS ON DISTRIBUTIONS. For Series which invest in
foreign debt instruments, most foreign exchange gains realized on the sale of
debt instruments are treated as ordinary income by such Series. Similarly,
foreign exchange losses realized by such Series on the sale of debt instruments
are generally treated as ordinary losses by the Series. These gains when
distributed will be taxable to you as ordinary dividends, and any losses will
reduce the Series' ordinary income otherwise available for distribution to you.
This treatment could increase or reduce the Series' ordinary income
distributions to you, and may cause some or all of the Series' previously
distributed income to be classified as a return of capital.

     A Series may be subject to foreign withholding taxes on income from certain
of its foreign securities. If more than 50% of the Series' total assets at the
end of the fiscal year are invested in securities of foreign corporations, the
Series may elect to pass-through to you your pro rata share of foreign taxes
paid by the Series. If this election is made, the year-end statement you receive
from the Series will show more taxable income than was actually distributed to
you. However, you will be entitled to either deduct your share of such taxes in
computing your taxable income or claim a foreign tax credit for such taxes
against your U.S. federal income tax. The Series will provide you with the
information necessary to complete your individual income tax return if such
election is made.

     INFORMATION ON THE TAX CHARACTER OF DISTRIBUTIONS. Each Series will inform
you of the amount and character of your distributions at the time they are paid,
and will advise you of the tax status for federal income tax purposes of such
distributions shortly after the close of each calendar year. If you have not
held shares of a Series for a full year, you may have designated and distributed
to you as ordinary income or capital gain a percentage of income that is not
equal to the actual amount of such income earned during the period of your
investment in the Series.

TAXES

     ELECTION TO BE TAXED AS A REGULATED INVESTMENT COMPANY. Each Series has
elected to be treated as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of
the Code, has qualified as such for its most recent fiscal year, and intends to
so qualify during the current fiscal year. As a regulated

                                       67
<PAGE>
 
investment company, each Series generally pays no federal income tax on the
income and gains it distributes to you. The Board reserves the right not to
maintain the qualification of the Series as a regulated investment company if it
determines such course of action to be beneficial to you. In such case, the
Series will be subject to federal, and possibly state, corporate taxes on its
taxable income and gains, and distributions to you will be taxed as ordinary
dividend income to the extent of the Series' available earnings and profits.

     EXCISE TAX DISTRIBUTION REQUIREMENTS. The Code requires each Series to
distribute at least 98% of its taxable ordinary income earned during the
calendar year and 98% of its capital gain net income earned during the twelve
month period ending October 31 (in addition to undistributed amounts from the
prior year) to you by December 31 of each year in order to avoid federal excise
taxes. Each Series intends to declare and pay sufficient dividends in December
(or in January that are treated by you as received in December) but does not
guarantee and can give no assurances that its distributions will be sufficient
to eliminate all such taxes.

     REDEMPTION OF SERIES SHARES. Redemptions and exchanges of shares of a
Series are taxable transactions for federal and state income tax purposes that
cause you to recognize a gain or loss. If you hold your shares as a capital
asset, the gain or loss that you realize will be capital gain or loss. Any loss
incurred on the redemption or exchange of shares held for six months or less
will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any long-term
capital gains distributed to you by the Series on those shares.

     All or a portion of any loss that you realize upon the redemption of your
shares of a Series will be disallowed to the extent that you purchase other
shares in such Series (through reinvestment of dividends or otherwise) within 30
days before or after your share redemption. Any loss disallowed under these
rules will be added to your tax basis in the new shares you purchase.

     U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS. Many states grant tax-free status to dividends
paid to you from interest earned on direct obligations of the U.S. government,
subject in some states to minimum investment requirements that must be met by a
Series. Investments in GNMA/FNMA securities, bankers' acceptances, commercial
paper and repurchase agreements collateralized by U.S. government securities do
not generally qualify for tax-free treatment. The rules on exclusion of this
income are different for corporations.

     DIVIDENDS-RECEIVED DEDUCTION FOR CORPORATIONS. Corporate investors in
certain Series may be entitled to a dividends-received deduction on a portion of
the ordinary dividends they receive from such Series. The portion of the
dividends which qualifies for the dividends-received deduction depends on the
aggregate qualifying dividend income received by a Series from domestic (US)
sources. Certain holding period and debt financing restrictions may also apply
to corporate investors seeking to claim the deduction. All dividends (including
the deducted portion) must be included in your alternative minimum taxable
income calculation.

     INVESTMENT IN COMPLEX SECURITIES. A Series may invest in complex
securities. Such investments may be subject to numerous special and complex tax
rules. These rules could affect whether gains and losses recognized by a Series
are treated as ordinary income or capital gain, accelerate the recognition of
income to a Series or defer a Series' ability to recognize losses, and, in
limited cases, subject the Series to U.S. federal income tax on income from
certain of its foreign securities. In turn, these rules may affect the amount,
timing or character of the income distributed to you by a Series.

ADDITIONAL PURCHASE AND REDEMPTION INFORMATION

    
     Shareholders of the Emerging Markets Equity Fund are subject to a 1.50%
transaction charge in connection with each purchase and redemption of shares of
the Series. Shareholders of the Emerging Markets Debt Fund are subject to a
0.75% transaction charge in connection with each purchase of shares of the
Series. Shares of the Series are sold at a price which is equal to the net asset
value of such     

                                       68
<PAGE>
 
shares, plus the transaction charge. Redemption requests for the Emerging
Markets Equity Fund are paid at the net asset value less the transaction charge.
The transaction charges do not apply to the reinvestment of dividends or capital
gain distributions. The transaction charges are paid to the Series and used by
them to defray the transaction costs associated with the purchase and sale of
securities within the Series. The amount of the transaction charge on purchase
and redemptions represents the estimate of the costs reasonably anticipated to
be associated with the purchase of securities with cash received from
shareholders and the sale of securities to obtain cash to redeem shareholders.
Therefore, the transaction charges offset the dilutive effect such costs would
otherwise have on the net asset value of the Series' shares. Purchases and
redemptions which are made in kind with securities are not subject to the
transaction charges.

PERFORMANCE CALCULATIONS

     From time to time, performance information, such as yield or total return,
may be quoted in advertisements or in communications to present or prospective
shareholders. Performance quotations represent the Funds' past performance and
should not be considered as representative of future results. The current yield
will be calculated by dividing the net investment income earned per share by a
Fund during the period stated in the advertisement (based on the average daily
number of shares entitled to receive dividends outstanding during the period) by
the maximum net asset value per share on the last day of the period and
annualizing the result on a semi-annual compounded basis. The Funds' total
return may be calculated on an annualized and aggregate basis for various
periods (which periods will be stated in the advertisement). Average annual
return reflects the average percentage change per year in value of an investment
in a Fund. Aggregate total return reflects the total percentage change over the
stated period.

    
     To help investors better evaluate how an investment in the Brinson Funds
might satisfy their investment objectives, advertisements regarding the Funds
may discuss yield or total return as reported by various financial publications.
Advertisements may also compare yield or total return to other investments,
indices and averages. The following publications, benchmarks, indices and
averages may be used: Lipper Mutual Fund Performance Analysis; Lipper Fixed
Income Analysis; Lipper Mutual Fund Indices; Morgan Stanley Indices; Lehman
Brothers Treasury Index; Salomon Smith Barney Indices; Dow Jones Composite
Average or its component indices; Standard & Poor's 500 Stock Index or its
component indices; Wilshire Indices; The New York Stock Exchange composite or
component indices; CDA Mutual Fund Report; Weisenberger-Mutual Funds Panorama
and Investment Companies; Mutual Fund Values and Mutual Fund Service Book,
published by Morningstar, Inc.; comparable portfolios managed by the Advisor;
and financial publications, such as Business Week, Kiplinger's Personal Finance,
Financial World, Forbes, Fortune, Money Magazine, The Wall Street Journal,
Barron's, et al., which rate fund performance over various time periods.     

     The principal value of an investment in the Funds will fluctuate, so that
an investor's shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their
original cost. Any fees charged by banks or other institutional investors
directly to their customer accounts in connection with investments in shares of
the Funds will not be included in the Brinson Funds' calculations of yield or
total return.

     Performance information for the UBS Investment Funds class of shares,
Brinson Fund-Class N and Brinson Fund-Class I shares of each Series will vary
due to the effect of expense ratios on the performance calculations.

TOTAL RETURN

     Current yield and total return quotations used by the Series (and classes
of shares) are based on standardized methods of computing performance mandated
by rules adopted by the SEC. As the following formula indicates, the average
annual total return is determined by multiplying a hypothetical initial purchase
order of $1,000 by the average annual compound rate of return (including capital
appreciation/depreciation and dividends and distributions paid and reinvested)
for the stated period less

                                       69
<PAGE>
 
any fees charged to all shareholder accounts and annualizing the result. The
calculation assumes that all dividends and distributions are reinvested at the
net asset value on the reinvestment dates during the period. The quotation
assumes the account was completely redeemed at the end of each period and
deduction of all applicable charges and fees. According to the SEC formula:

P(1+T)/n/=ERV

     where:
           P    =    a hypothetical initial payment of $1,000,
           T    =    average annual total return,
           n    =    number of years,
           ERV  =    ending redeemable value of a hypothetical $1,000 payment
                     made at the beginning of the 1, 5 or 10 year periods at the
                     end of the 1, 5 or 10 year periods (or fractional portion
                     thereof).

     Based upon the foregoing calculations, the average annual total return for
the Brinson Fund-Class I (previously Brinson Fund Class) shares of:*

    
     (i)    the Global Fund, for the one-and five-year periods ended December
            31, 1998 and the period August 31, 1992 (commencement of operations)
            through December 31, 1998 was 8.32 %, 10.81 % and 10.83 %,
                                          ----    -----       -----  
            respectively;     

    
     (ii)   the Global Equity Fund, for the one-and three-year periods ended
            December 31, 1998 and the period January 28, 1994 (commencement of
            operations) through December 31, 1998 was 14.03 %, 13.96 %, and
                                                      -----    -----       
            11.75 %, respectively;     
            -----                

    
     (iii)  the Global Bond Fund, for the one-and five-year periods ended
            December 31, 1998 and the period July 30, 1993 (commencement of
            operations) through December 31, 1998 was 11.98 %, 7.63 % and 7.77
                                                      -----    ----       ----
            %, respectively;     

    
     (iv)   the U.S. Balanced Fund, for the one and three-year periods ended
            December 31, 1998 and the period December 30, 1994 (commencement of
            operations) through December 31, 1998 was 9.92 %, 11.47 % and 14.81
                                                      ----    -----       -----
            %, respectively;     

    
     (v)    the U.S. Equity Fund, for the one-and three-year periods ended
            December 31, 1998 and the period February 22, 1994 (commencement of
            operations) through December 31, 1998 was 18.57 %, 22.93 % and
                                                      -----    -----      
            21.53 %, respectively;     
            -----                

    
     (vi)   the U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund, for the period April 6,
            1998 (commencement of operations) through December 31, 1998 was 4.07
                                                                            ----
            %;     

    
     (vii)  the U.S. Bond Fund, for the one-and three-year periods ended
            December 31, 1998 and the period August 31, 1995 (commencement of
            operations) through December 31, 1998 was 8.37 %, 7.14 % and 8.12 %,
                                                      ----    ----       ----
            respectively; and     

    
     (viii) the Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund, for the one-and five-year periods
            ended December 31, 1998 and the period August 31, 1993 (commencement
            of operations) through December 31, 1998 was 14.39 %, 9.72 % and
                                                         -----    ----      
            8.37 %, respectively.     
            ----                

     Based upon the foregoing calculations, the average annual total return for
the UBS Investment Funds (previously the SwissKey Class) class of shares of:*

                                       70
<PAGE>
 
    
     (i)    the Global Fund, for the one-and three-year periods ended December
            31, 1998 and the period July 31, 1995 (commencement of operations)
            through December 31, 1998 was 7.60 %, 10.41 % and 11.74 %,
                                          ----    -----       -----
            respectively;
            
     (ii)   the Global Equity Fund, for the one-and three-year periods ended
            December 31, 1998 and the period July 31, 1995 (commencement of
            operations) through December 31, 1998 was  13.17 %,  13.07 % and
                                                      -------   -------      
            14.51 %, respectively;
            ------                

     (iii)  the Global Bond Fund, for the one-and three-year periods ended
            December 31, 1998 and the period July 31, 1995 (commencement of
            operations) through December 31, 1998 was 11.58 %, 7.05 % and 8.35
                                                      ------   -----      ----
            %, respectively;

     (iv)   the U.S. Balanced Fund, for the one-and three-year periods ended
            December 31, 1998 and the period July 31, 1995 (commencement of
            operations) through December 31, 1998 was 9.57 %, 11.01 % and 12.22
                                                      -----   ------      -----
            %, respectively;

     (v)    the U.S. Equity Fund, for the one-and three-year periods ended
            December 31, 1998 and the period July 31, 1995 (commencement of
            operations) through December 31, 1998 was 17.91 %, 22.28 % and
                                                     -------   ------      
            23.75 %, respectively;
            ------                

     (vi)   the U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund, for the period April 6,
            1998 (commencement of operations) through December 31, 1998 was 3.50
                                                                            ----
            %;

     (vii)  the U.S. Bond Fund, for the one-and three-year periods ended
            December 31, 1998 and the period August 31, 1995 (commencement of
            operations) through December 31, 1998 was  8.37 %,  6.63 % and  7.60
                                                      ------   ------      -----
            %, respectively; and

     (viii) the Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund, for the one-and three-year
            periods ended December 31, 1998 and the period July 31, 1995
            (commencement of operations) through December 31, 1998 was  13.44 %,
                                                                       -------
            10.02 % and  7.81 %, respectively.
            ------      ------                
     

     Based on the foregoing calculations, the average annual total return for
the Brinson Fund-Class N shares of *:

    
     (i)    the Global Fund, for the one-year period ended December 31, 1998 and
            the period June 30, 1997 (commencement of operations)
            through December 31, 1998 was 8.00 % and 6.49 %, respectively;
                                         ------     ------                
     (ii)   the Global Equity Fund, for the one-year period ended December 31,
            1998 and the period June 30, 1997 (commencement of operations)
            through December 31, 1998 was 13.63 % and 7.51 %, respectively;
                                         -------     ------                

     (iii)  the Global Bond Fund, for the one-year period ended December 31,
            1998 and the period June 30, 1997 (commencement of operations)
            through December 31, 1998 was 11.83 % and 8.30 %, respectively;
                                         -------     ------                

     (iv)   the U.S. Balanced Fund, for the one-year period ended December 31,
            1998 and the period June 30, 1997 (commencement of operations)
            through December 31, 1998 was 9.92 % and 10.50 %, respectively;
                                         ------     -------                

     (v)    the U.S. Equity Fund, for the one-year period ended December 31,
            1998 and the period June 30, 1997 (commencement of operations)
            through December 31, 1998 was 17.99 % and 16.57 %, respectively;
                                         -------     -------                
     

                                       71
<PAGE>
 
    
     (vi)   the U.S. Large Capitalization Equity Fund, for the period April 6,
            1998 (commencement of operations) through December 31, 1998 was 3.78
                                                                            ----
            %;

     (vii)  the U.S. Bond Fund, for the one-year period ended December 31, 1998
            and the period June 30, 1997 (commencement of operations) through
            December 31, 1998 was 8.25 % and 9.93 % , respectively; and
                                 ------      ------                     

     (viii) the Global (ex-U.S.) Equity Fund, for the one-year period ended
            December 31, 1998 and the period June 30, 1997 (commencement of
            operations) through December 31, 1998 was  13.96 % and  3.58 %,
                                                      -------      ------  
            respectively.
     

     *      The Emerging Markets Debt Fund and the Emerging Markets Equity Fund
            had not commenced operations as of the time periods indicated.

     Based on the foregoing calculations, the average annual total return for
the U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund
and High Yield Fund was as follows:

    
     (i)    the U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, for the one-year period
            ended December 31, 1998 and the period October 14, 1997
            (commencement of operations) through December 31, 1998 was 24.90 %
                                                                      -------
            and 19.56 %, respectively *;
               -------

     (ii)   the U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund, for the one-year period
            ended December 31, 1998 and the period September 30, 1997
            (commencement of operations) through December 31, 1998 was  (6.70) %
                                                                       -------- 
            and  (9.66) %, respectively *; and
                --------                      

     (iii)  the High Yield Fund, for the one-year period ended December 31, 1998
            and the period September 30, 1997 (commencement of operations)
            through December 31, 1998 was 7.75 % and 8.12 %, respectively *.
                                         ------      ------                  

     *      These Series were reorganized as Series of The Brinson Funds on
            December 21, 1998. The average annual total return calculations also
            reflect the performance of these Series while they were series of
            the UBS Private Investor Funds, Inc.     

    
     

YIELD

     As indicated below, current yield is determined by dividing the net
investment income per share earned during the period by the maximum offering
price per share on the last day of the period and annualizing the result.
Expenses accrued for the period include any fees charged to all shareholders
during the 30-day base periods. According to the SEC formula:

 
     Yield = 2[(a-b + 1)/6/ - 1
             ------------------
                    cd
 
     where:
          a     =       dividends and interest earned during the period.
          b     =       expenses accrued for the period (net of reimbursements).
          c     =       the average daily number of shares outstanding during
                        the period that were entitled to receive dividends.
          d     =       the maximum offering price per share on the last day of
                        the period.

                                       72
<PAGE>
 
          The yield of a Series may be calculated by dividing the net investment
income per share earned by the particular Series during a 30-day (or one month)
period by the net asset value per share on the last day of the period and
annualizing the result on a semi-annual basis. A Series' net investment income
per share earned during the period is based on the average daily number of
shares outstanding during the period entitled to receive dividends and includes
dividends and interest earned during the period minus expenses accrued for the
period, net of reimbursements.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND REPORTS OF INDEPENDENT AUDITORS
    
     The Series' Financial Statements for the fiscal year ended June 30, 1998
and the report thereon of August 7, 1998, which are contained in the Series'
Annual Reports dated June 30, 1998 (which do not include the U.S. Large
Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small Capitalization Growth Fund, High Yield
Fund, Emerging Markets Debt Fund and Emerging Markets Equity Fund, which had not
commenced operations as of the time period indicated) (as filed with the SEC on
September 9, 1998, pursuant to Section 30(b) of the Act and Rule 30b2-1
thereunder (Accession Number 0000950131-98-005115) are incorporated herein by
reference. The unaudited Financial Statements of the Series for the six month
period ended December 31, 1998 (as filed with the SEC on March 11, 1999 pursuant
to Section 30(b) of the Act and Rule 30b2-1 thereunder (Accession Number
0000950131-99-001426 are incorporated herein by reference. The Financial
Statements of the U.S. Large Capitalization Growth Fund, U.S. Small
Capitalization Growth Fund and High Yield Fund (formerly the UBS Large Cap
Growth Portfolio, the UBS Small Cap Portfolio and the UBS High Yield Bond
Portfolio (the "Portfolios")), respectively, which appear in the Annual Reports
dated December 31, 1997 and the reports thereon as of and for the fiscal year
ended December 31, 1997 and the Annual Reports dated December 31, 1998 and the
reports thereon of February 12, 1999 as of and for the fiscal year ended
December 31, 1998 (as filed with the SEC on March 11, 1999 pursuant to Section
30(b) of the Act and Rule 30b2-1 thereunder (Accession Number 0000950131-99-
001426 are incorporated herein by reference.

                                       73
<PAGE>
 
CORPORATE DEBT RATINGS                                                APPENDIX A

MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE, INC. DESCRIBES CLASSIFICATIONS OF CORPORATE BONDS AS
FOLLOWS:

          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-edged". Interest payments are protected by a large or by an
exceptionally stable margin and principal is secure. While the various
protective elements are likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are
most unlikely to impair the fundamentally strong position of such issues.

          AA - Bonds 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. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of
protection may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective
elements may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present
which make the long-term risks appear somewhat larger than in Aaa securities.

          A - Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment
attributes and are to be considered as upper medium-grade obligations. Factors
giving security to principal and interest are considered adequate, but elements
may be present which suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the
future.

          BAA - Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium-grade
obligations, (i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured).
Interest payments and principal security appear adequate for the present but
certain protective elements may be lacking or may be characteristically
unreliable over any great length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment
characteristics and in fact have speculative characteristics as well.

          BA - Bonds which are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements;
their future cannot be considered as well-assured. Often the protection of
interest and principal payments may be very moderate and thereby not well
safeguarded during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of
position characterizes bonds in this class.

          B - Bonds which are rated B generally lack characteristics of the
desirable investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or of
maintenance of other terms of the contract over any long period of time may be
small.

          CAA - Bonds which are rated Caa are of poor standing. Such issues may
be in default or there may be present elements of danger with respect to
principal or interest.

          CA - Bonds which are rated Ca represent 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.

          Moody's also supplies numerical indicators 1, 2, and 3 to rating
categories. The modifier 1 indicates the security is in the higher end of its
rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a mid-range ranking; and the modifier
3 indicates a ranking toward the lower end of the category.


                                      A-1
<PAGE>
 
STANDARD & POOR'S RATINGS GROUP DESCRIBES CLASSIFICATIONS OF CORPORATE BONDS AS
FOLLOWS:

          AAA - This is the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poor's Ratings
Group to a debt obligation and indicates an extremely strong capacity to pay
principal and interest.

          AA - Bonds rated AA also qualify as high-quality debt obligations.
Capacity to pay principal and interest is very strong and in the majority of
instances they differ from the AAA issues only in small degree.

          A - Bonds rated A have a strong capacity to pay principal and
interest, although they are somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of
changes in circumstances and economic conditions.

          BBB - Bonds rated BBB are regarded as having an adequate capacity to
pay principal and interest. Whereas they normally exhibit adequate protection
parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more
likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay principal and interest for bonds in
this category than for bonds in the A category.

          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 lend
to inadequate capacity to meet timely interest and principal payments.

          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 repayment of principal. In
the event of adverse business, financial or economic conditions, it is not
likely to have the capacity to pay interest or 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 rating.

          CI - The rating CI s reserved for income bonds on which no interest is
being paid.

          D - Debt rated D is in default, or is expected to default upon
maturity or payment date.

          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
rating categories.


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