PROSPECTUS
& APPLICATION
[GLOBE LOGO]
FRANKLIN
TEMPLETON
JAPAN FUND
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AUGUST 1, 1996
INVESTMENT STRATEGY
GLOBAL GROWTH
[FRANKLIN TEMPLETON LOGO]
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This prospectus describes the Franklin Templeton Japan Fund (the "Fund"). It
contains information you should know before investing in the Fund. Please
keep it for future reference.
THE FUND MAY BORROW MONEY FOR INVESTMENT PURPOSES (I.E., "LEVERAGE" ITS
PORTFOLIO), WHICH MAY INVOLVE GREATER RISK AND ADDITIONAL COSTS TO THE
FUND. IN ADDITION, THE FUND MAY INVEST UP TO 15% OF ITS ASSETS IN ILLIQUID
SECURITIES, INCLUDING UP TO 10% OF ITS ASSETS IN RESTRICTED SECURITIES,
WHICH MAY INVOLVE GREATER RISK AND INCREASED FUND EXPENSES. THERE ARE
FURTHER RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE FUND'S POLICY OF INVESTING PRIMARILY IN
JAPANESE SECURITIES. SEE "WHAT ARE THE FUND'S POTENTIAL RISKS?"
The Fund's SAI, dated August 1, 1996, as may be amended from time to time,
includes more information about the Fund's procedures and policies. It has
been filed with the SEC and is incorporated by reference into this
prospectus. For a free copy or a larger print version of this prospectus,
call 1-800/DIAL BEN or write the Fund at the address shown.
SHARES OF THE FUND ARE NOT DEPOSITS OR OBLIGATIONS OF, OR GUARANTEED OR
ENDORSED BY ANY BANK, AND ARE NOT FEDERALLY INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT
INSURANCE CORPORATION, THE FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD, OR ANY OTHER AGENCY OF
THE U.S. GOVERNMENT. SHARES OF THE FUND INVOLVE INVESTMENT RISKS, INCLUDING
THE POSSIBLE LOSS OF PRINCIPAL.
LIKE ALL MUTUAL FUNDS, THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR
DISAPPROVED BY THE SEC OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION NOR HAS THE SEC OR
ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS
PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
FRANKLIN TEMPLETON
JAPAN FUND
This prospectus is not an offering of the securities herein
described in any state in which the offering is not authorized.
No sales representative, dealer, or other person is
authorized to give any information or make any representations
other than those contained in this prospectus. Further
information may be obtained from Distributors.
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When reading this prospectus, you will see
certain terms in capital letters.
This means the term is explained
in our glossary section.
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FRANKLIN TABLE OF CONTENTS
TEMPLETON ABOUT THE FUND
JAPAN FUND Expense Summary ........................................ 2
- ----------------------- Financial Highlights ................................... 3
August 1, 1996 How Does the Fund Invest Its Assets? ................... 3
What are the Fund's Potential Risks? ................... 11
Who Manages the Fund? .................................. 15
How Does the Fund Measure Performance? ................. 17
How Is the Fund Organized? ............................. 18
How Taxation Affects You and the Fund .................. 18
ABOUT YOUR ACCOUNT
How Do I Buy Shares? ................................... 19
May I Exchange Shares for Shares of Another Fund? ...... 24
How Do I Sell Shares? .................................. 26
What Distributions Might I Receive From the Fund? ...... 29
Transaction Procedures and Special Requirements ........ 30
700 Central Avenue Services to Help You Manage Your Account ............... 34
St. Petersburg, Florida 33701 GLOSSARY
1-800/DIAL BEN Useful Terms and Definitions ........................... 37
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ABOUT THE FUND
EXPENSE SUMMARY
This table is designed to help you understand the costs of investing in the
Fund. It is based on the Fund's historical expenses, after fee reductions and
expense limitations, for the fiscal year ended March 31, 1996. Your actual
expenses may vary.
A. SHAREHOLDER TRANSACTION EXPENSES(+)
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Maximum Sales Charge Imposed on Purchases
(as a percentage of offering price) 5.75%
Deferred Sales Charge NONE (++)
Exchange Fee (per transaction) $5.00*
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B. ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES (AS A PERCENTAGE OF AVERAGE NET ASSETS)
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Management Fees (after fee reduction) 0.00%**
Rule 12b-1 Fees 0.35%***
Other Expenses (audit, legal, business
management, transfer agent and custodian)
(after expense reimbursement) 1.65%
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Total Fund Operating Expenses (after expense
reimbursement) 2.00%**
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C. EXAMPLE
Assume the Fund's annual return is 5% and its operating expenses are as
described above. For each $1,000 investment, you would pay the following
projected expenses if you sold your shares after the number of years shown.
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ONE YEAR THREE YEARS FIVE YEARS TEN YEARS
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$77**** $117 $159 $277
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THIS IS JUST AN EXAMPLE. IT DOES NOT REPRESENT PAST OR FUTURE EXPENSES OR
RETURNS. ACTUAL EXPENSES AND RETURNS MAY BE MORE OR LESS THAN THOSE SHOWN.
The Fund pays its operating expenses. The effects of these expenses are
reflected in its Net Asset Value or dividends and are not directly charged
to your account.
(+)If your transaction is processed through your Securities Dealer you may be
charged a fee by your Securities Dealer for this service.
(++)There is no front-end sales charge if you invest $1 million or more. A
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge of 1% may apply, however, if you sell the
shares within one year. See "How Do I Sell Shares? - Contingent Deferred Sales
Charge" for details.
*$5.00 fee is only for Market Timers. We process all other exchanges without a
fee.
**The Investment Manager and Business Manager have agreed in advance to reduce
their respective fees in order to limit total expenses to an annual rate of
2.00% of the Fund's average daily net assets, through December 31, 1996. If
this fee reduction is insufficient to so limit the Fund's expenses, the
Business Manager has agreed to make certain payments to reduce Fund expenses.
Without these reductions, the Fund's "Other Expenses" would be 3.80% and the
"Total Fund Operating Expenses" would be 4.90%. After December 31, 1996, this
agreement may end at any time upon notice to the Board.
***The combination of front-end sales charges and Rule 12b-1 fees could cause
long-term shareholders to pay more than the economic equivalent of the maximum
front-end sales charge permitted under the NASD's rules.
****Assumes a Contingent Deferred Sales Charge will not apply.
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
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FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
This table summarizes the Fund's financial history. The information has been
audited by McGladrey & Pullen, LLP, the Fund's independent auditors. Their
audit report covering each of the most recent years since the Fund's
commencement on July 28, 1994 appears in the Fund's Annual Report to
Shareholders for the fiscal year ended March 31, 1996. The Annual Report to
Shareholders also includes more information about the Fund's performance. For a
free copy, please call Fund Information.
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YEAR ENDED MARCH 31 1996 1995(1)
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PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE
(For a share outstanding throughout the period)
Net asset value, beginning of period $ 9.93 $10.00
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Income from investment operations:
Net investment income (loss) (.02) .10
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) .47 (.12)
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Total from investment operations .45 (.02)
Distributions to shareholders from net
investment income (.03) (.05)
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Change in net asset value .42 (.07)
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Net asset value, end of period $10.35 $ 9.93
====== ======
TOTAL RETURN* 4.55% (0.19)%
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets, end of period (000) $6,232 $1,444
Ratio of expenses to average net assets 4.90% 12.05%**
Ratio of expenses, net of reimbursement, to
average net assets 1.99% 1.25%**
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to
average net assets (.05)% 1.92%**
Portfolio turnover rate 54.97% --
Average commission rate paid (per share) $ .0552
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(1)For the period July 28, 1994 (commencement of operations) to March 31, 1995.
*Total Return does not reflect sales commissions. Not annualized for periods of
less than one year.
**Annualized.
HOW DOES THE FUND INVEST ITS ASSETS?
The Fund's Investment Objective
The investment objective of the Fund is long-term capital growth, which it seeks
to achieve through investing its assets primarily in securities of companies
domiciled in Japan and traded in the Japanese securities markets. A company is
considered domiciled in Japan if it is organized under the laws of Japan, at
least half of its assets are located in Japan and it normally derives at least
half of its income from operations or sales in Japan, or if its principal
activities are in Japan. The objective of the Fund is a fundamental policy
which cannot be changed without shareholder approval. The investment policies
and practices described herein are not fundamental policies of the Fund and may
be changed
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
3
at the discretion of the Board without shareholder approval. Of course, there
can be no assurance that the Fund's investment objective will be achieved.
The Fund's investments will consist of common stocks, common stock equivalents
(convertible debt securities and warrants), preferred stocks and debt
securities issued by domestic and foreign corporations, domestic and foreign
governments and supranational organizations such as the World Bank, the
European Investment Bank and the Asian Development Bank, as well as the
investments discussed below under "Types of Securities the Fund May Invest In."
Under normal circumstances at least 80% of the Fund's assets will be invested in
equity securities of Japanese issuers. "Equity securities," as used in this
Prospectus, refers to common stock, preferred stock, warrants or rights to
subscribe to or purchase such securities, and sponsored or unsponsored American
Depositary Receipts, European Depositary Receipts and Global Depositary
Receipts. See "Depositary Receipts." Securities considered for purchase by the
Fund may be listed or unlisted, and may be issued by companies in various
industries, with various levels of market capitalization.
Consistent with the Fund's objective of seeking long-term capital growth, the
Fund may purchase debt, as well as equity securities, issued by private and
governmental issuers. Although the Fund would not anticipate that its debt
investments would achieve the same levels of growth as its equity investments,
nevertheless, such investments fluctuate in value based upon changes in such
factors as the general level of interest rates and credit quality, and may be
expected to offer attractive growth opportunities. Additionally, convertible
bonds offer the potential for capital appreciation through the conversion
feature, which enables the holder of the bonds to benefit from increases in the
market price of the securities into which they are convertible.
The Fund may invest in debt securities (defined as bonds, notes, debentures,
commercial paper, time deposits, and bankers' acceptances, and which may
include structured investments) which are rated in any rating category by
Moody's or S&P or which are unrated by any rating agency. Such securities may
include high risk, lower quality debt securities, commonly referred to as "junk
bonds." See "What Are the Fund's Potential Risks?" As an operating policy,
which may be changed by the Board, the Fund will not invest more than 5% of its
total assets in debt securities rated lower than Baa by Moody's or BBB by S&P.
The Fund may invest in yen-denominated bonds sold in Japan by non-Japanese
issuers ("Samurai Bonds") and may invest in dollar-denominated bonds sold in
the U.S. by non-U.S. issuers ("Yankee Bonds"). As compared with bonds issued in
their countries of domicile, such bond issues normally carry a higher interest
rate but are less actively traded. Samurai Bonds and Yankee Bonds are
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
4
subject to the risks associated with other debt instruments and with securities
of foreign issuers, as described below and in the SAI. Debt securities are
subject to certain market and credit risks. See "How Does the Fund Invest Its
Assets - Debt Securities." in the SAI for descriptions of debt securities rated
BBB by S&P and Baa by Moody's.
Government securities in which the Fund may invest consist of debt securities
issued by the U.S. Treasury which are direct obligations of the U.S. government,
including bills (maturity of one year or less), notes (maturities of one to 10
years) and bonds (generally maturities of greater than 10 years), and debt
securities issued or guaranteed by U.S. government-sponsored instrumentalities
and federal agencies, including the Federal National Mortgage Association
("FNMA"), Federal Home Loan Banks and the Federal Housing Administration.
Mortgage-backed U.S. government securities, such as FNMA certificates, are
highly sensitive to prepayment and interest rates. Prepayments on a pool of
mortgage loans are influenced by a variety of economic, geographic, social and
other factors. Generally, however, prepayments on fixed rate mortgage loans will
increase during a period of falling interest rates and decrease during a period
of rising interest rates. Accordingly, to the extent of the Fund's investment in
mortgage-backed securities, amounts available for reinvestment by the Fund are
likely to be greater during a period of declining interest rates and, as a
result, are likely to be reinvested at lower interest rates than during a
period of rising interest rates. The Fund may also invest in obligations issued
or guaranteed by a foreign government or any of its political subdivisions,
authorities, agencies, or instrumentalities which are rated in any category, as
described above, or which are unrated by any rating agency.
The Fund may also lend its portfolio securities and borrow money for investment
purposes (i.e., "leverage" its portfolio). In addition, the Fund may enter into
transactions in options on securities, securities indices and foreign
currencies, forward foreign currency contracts, and futures contracts and
related options. These are generally referred to as derivative instruments, and
involve special risk factors, which are described below.
When deemed appropriate by the Investment Manager, the Fund may invest cash
balances in repurchase agreements and other money market investments to
maintain liquidity in an amount to meet expenses or for day-to-day operating
purposes. These investment techniques are described below and under the heading
"How Does the Fund Invest Its Assets?" in the SAI. When the Investment Manager
believes that unusual market conditions warrant, the Fund may adopt a temporary
defensive position and may invest without limit in money market securities
denominated in U.S. dollars or in the currency of any foreign country. See
"Temporary Investments."
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
5
The Fund invests for long-term growth of capital and does not emphasize short-
term trading profits. Accordingly, the Fund expects to have an annual portfolio
turnover rate not exceeding 50%. There can be no assurance that the Fund's
investment objective will be achieved.
Types of Securities the Fund May Invest In
The Fund is authorized to use the various securities and investment techniques
described below. Although these strategies are regularly used by some investment
companies and other institutional investors in various markets, some of these
strategies cannot at the present time be used to a significant extent by the
Fund in some of the markets in which the Fund will invest and may not be
available for extensive use in the future.
Temporary Investments. For temporary defensive purposes, the Fund may invest up
to 100% of its total assets in the following money market securities,
denominated in U.S. dollars or in the currency of any foreign country, issued by
entities organized in the U.S. or any foreign country: debt obligations issued
or guaranteed by the U.S. government or the governments of foreign countries,
their agencies or instrumentalities; short-term time deposits with banks;
repurchase agreements with banks and broker-dealers with respect to U.S.
government obligations; and finance company and corporate commercial paper, and
other short-term corporate obligations, in each case rated Prime-1 by Moody's
or A or better by S&P or, if unrated, of comparable quality as determined by
the Investment Manager.
Borrowing. The Fund may borrow up to one-third of the value of its total assets
from banks to increase its holdings of portfolio securities. Under the 1940 Act,
the Fund is required to maintain continuous asset coverage of 300% with respect
to such borrowings and to sell (within three days) sufficient portfolio holdings
to restore such coverage if it should decline to less than 300% due to market
fluctuations or otherwise, even if such liquidations of the Fund's holdings may
be disadvantageous from an investment standpoint. Leveraging by means of
borrowing may exaggerate the effect of any increase or decrease in the value of
portfolio securities on the Fund's net asset value, and money borrowed will be
subject to interest and other costs (which may include commitment fees and/or
the cost of maintaining minimum average balances) which may or may not exceed
the income received from the securities purchased with borrowed funds.
Loans of Portfolio Securities. The Fund may lend to broker-dealers portfolio
securities with an aggregate market value of up to one-third of its total
assets to generate income for the purpose of offsetting operating expenses.
Such loans must be secured by collateral (consisting of any combination of
cash, U.S.
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
6
government securities or irrevocable letters of credit) in an amount at least
equal (on a daily marked-to-market basis) to the current market value of the
securities loaned. The Fund may terminate the loans at any time and obtain the
return of the securities loaned within five business days. The Fund will
continue to receive any interest or dividends paid on the loaned securities and
will continue to retain any voting rights with respect to the securities. In
the event that the borrower defaults on its obligation to return borrowed
securities, because of insolvency or otherwise, the Fund could experience
delays and costs in gaining access to the collateral and could suffer a loss to
the extent that the value of the collateral falls below the market value of the
borrowed securities.
Options on Securities or Indices. To increase its return or to hedge all or a
portion of its portfolio investments, the Fund may write (i.e., sell) covered
put and call options and purchase put and call options on securities or
securities indices that are traded on U.S. and foreign exchanges or in the
over-the-counter markets. An option on a security is a contract that permits
the purchaser of the option, in return for the premium paid, the right to buy a
specified security (in the case of a call option) or to sell a specified
security (in the case of a put option) from or to the writer of the option at a
designated price during the term of the option. An option on a securities index
permits the purchaser of the option, in return for the premium paid, the right
to receive from the seller cash equal to the difference between the closing
price of the index and the exercise price of the option. The Fund may write a
call or put option only if the option is "covered." This means that so long as
the Fund is obligated as the writer of a call option, it will own the
underlying securities subject to the call, or hold a call at the same or lower
exercise price, for the same exercise period, and on the same securities as the
written call. A put is covered if the Fund maintains liquid assets with a value
equal to the exercise price in a segregated account, or holds a put on the same
underlying securities at an equal or greater exercise price. The value of the
underlying securities on which options may be written at any one time will not
exceed 15% of the total assets of the Fund. The Fund will not purchase put or
call options if the aggregate premium paid for such options would exceed 5% of
its total assets at the time of purchase.
Forward Foreign Currency Contracts and Options on Foreign Currencies. The Fund
may enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts ("forward
contracts") to attempt to minimize the risk to the Fund from adverse changes in
the relationship between the U.S. dollar and foreign currencies. A forward
contract is an obligation to purchase or sell a specific currency for an agreed
price at a future date which is individually negotiated and privately traded by
currency traders and their customers.
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
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The Fund will enter into forward contracts only under two circumstances. First,
when the Fund enters into a contract for the purchase or sale of a security
denominated in a foreign currency, it may desire to "lock in" the U.S. dollar
price of the security in relation to another currency by entering into a forward
contract to buy the amount of foreign currency needed to settle the transaction.
Second, when the Investment Manager believes that the currency of a particular
foreign country may suffer or enjoy a substantial movement against another
currency, it may enter into a forward contract to sell or buy the amount of the
former foreign currency approximating the value of some or all of the Fund's
portfolio securities denominated in such foreign currency. The second investment
practice is generally referred to as "cross-hedging." The Fund has no specific
limitation on the percentage of assets it may commit to forward contracts,
subject to its stated investment objective and policies, except that the Fund
will not enter into a forward contract if the amount of assets set aside to
cover forward contracts would impede portfolio management or the Fund's ability
to meet redemption requests. Although forward contracts will be used primarily
to protect the Fund from adverse currency movements, they also involve the risk
that anticipated currency movements will not be accurately predicted.
The Fund may purchase put and call options and write covered put and call
options on foreign currencies for the purpose of protecting against declines in
the U.S. dollar value of foreign currency-denominated portfolio securities and
against increases in the U.S. dollar cost of such securities to be acquired. As
in the case of other kinds of options, however, the writing of an option on a
foreign currency constitutes only a partial hedge, up to the amount of the
premium received, and the Fund could be required to purchase or sell foreign
currencies at disadvantageous exchange rates, thereby incurring losses. The
purchase of an option on a foreign currency may constitute an effective hedge
against fluctuations in exchange rates although, in the event of rate movements
adverse to the Fund's position, the Fund may forfeit the entire amount of the
premium plus related transaction costs. Options on foreign currencies to be
written or purchased by the Fund are traded on U.S. and foreign exchanges or
over-the-counter.
Futures Contracts. For hedging purposes only, the Fund may buy and sell
financial futures contracts, stock and bond index futures contracts, foreign
currency futures contracts and options on any of the foregoing. A financial
futures contract is an agreement between two parties to buy or sell a specified
debt security at a set price on a future date. An index futures contract is an
agreement to take or make delivery of an amount of cash based on the difference
between the value of the index at the beginning and at the end of the
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
8
contract period. A futures contract on a foreign currency is an agreement to buy
or sell a specified amount of a currency for a set price on a future date.
When the Fund enters into a futures contract, it must make an initial deposit,
known as "initial margin," as a partial guarantee of its performance under the
contract. As the value of the security, index or currency fluctuates, either
party to the contract is required to make additional margin payments, known as
"variation margin," to cover any additional obligation it may have under the
contract. In addition, when the Fund enters into a futures contract, it will
segregate assets or "cover" its position in accordance with the 1940 Act. See
"How Does the Fund Invest Its Assets - Futures Contracts." in the SAI. With
respect to positions in futures and related options that do not constitute "bona
fide hedging" positions, the Fund will not enter into a futures contract or
related option contract if, immediately thereafter, the aggregate initial margin
deposits relating to such positions plus premiums paid by it for open futures
option positions, less the amount by which any such options are "in-the-money,"
would exceed 5% of the Fund's total assets.
Repurchase Agreements. For temporary defensive purposes and for cash management
purposes, the Fund may, without limit, enter into repurchase agreements with
U.S. banks and broker-dealers. Under a repurchase agreement, the Fund acquires
a security from a U.S. bank or a registered broker-dealer and simultaneously
agrees to resell the security back to the bank or broker-dealer at a specified
time and price. The repurchase price is in excess of the purchase price by an
amount which reflects an agreed-upon rate of return, which is not tied to the
coupon rate on the underlying security. Under the 1940 Act, repurchase
agreements are considered to be loans collateralized by the underlying security
and therefore will be fully collateralized. However, if the seller should
default on its obligation to repurchase the underlying security, the Fund may
experience delay or difficulty in exercising its rights to realize upon the
security and might incur a loss if the value of the security declines, as well
as incur disposition costs in liquidating the security.
Depositary Receipts. The Fund may purchase sponsored or unsponsored American
Depositary Receipts ("ADRs"), European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs") and Global
Depositary Receipts ("GDRs") (collectively, "depositary receipts"). ADRs are
depositary receipts typically issued by a U.S. bank or trust company which
evidence ownership of underlying securities issued by a foreign corporation.
EDRs and GDRs are typically issued by foreign banks or trust companies,
although they also may be issued by U.S. banks or trust companies, and evidence
ownership of underlying securities issued by either a foreign or a U.S.
corporation. Generally, depositary receipts in registered form are designed for
use in the U.S. securities market and depositary receipts in bearer form are
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
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designed for use in securities markets outside the U.S. Depositary receipts may
not necessarily be denominated in the same currency as the underlying securities
into which they may be converted. Depositary receipts may be issued pursuant to
sponsored or unsponsored programs. In sponsored programs, an issuer has made
arrangements to have its securities traded in the form of depositary receipts.
In unsponsored programs, the issuer may not be directly involved in the
creation of the program. Although regulatory requirements with respect to
sponsored and unsponsored programs are generally similar, in some cases it may
be easier to obtain financial information from an issuer that has participated
in the creation of a sponsored program. Accordingly, there may be less
information available regarding issuers of securities underlying unsponsored
programs and there may not be a correlation between such information and the
market value of the depositary receipts. Depositary receipts also involve the
risks of other investments in foreign securities, as discussed below. For
purposes of the Fund's investment policies, the Fund's investments in
depositary receipts will be deemed to be investments in the underlying
securities.
Illiquid and Restricted Securities. The Fund may invest up to 15% of its total
assets in illiquid securities, for which there is a limited trading market and
for which a low trading volume of a particular security may result in abrupt and
erratic price movements. The Fund may be unable to dispose of its holdings in
illiquid securities at then-current market prices and may have to dispose of
such securities over extended periods of time. The Fund may also invest in
securities that are sold (i) in private placement transactions between their
issuers and their purchasers and that are neither listed on an exchange nor
traded over-the-counter, or (ii) in transactions between qualified
institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A under the 1933 Act. Such restricted
securities are subject to contractual or legal restrictions on subsequent
transfer. As a result of the absence of a public trading market, such
restricted securities may in turn be less liquid and more difficult to value
than publicly traded securities. Although these securities may be resold in
privately negotiated transactions, the prices realized from the sales could,
due to illiquidity, be less than those originally paid by the Fund or less than
their fair value. In addition, issuers whose securities are not publicly traded
may not be subject to the disclosure and other investor protection requirements
that may be applicable if their securities were publicly traded. If any
privately placed or Rule 144A securities held by the Fund are required to be
registered under the securities laws of one or more jurisdictions before being
resold, the Fund may be required to bear the expenses of registration. The Fund
will limit its investment in restricted securities other than Rule 144A
securities to 10% of its total assets, and will limit its investment in all
restricted securities, including Rule 144A securities, to 15% of its total
assets. Restricted securities, other than Rule 144A securities determined by
the Board to
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
10
be liquid, are considered to be illiquid and are subject to the Fund's
limitation on investment in illiquid securities.
WHAT ARE THE FUND'S POTENTIAL RISKS?
All investments involve risk and there can be no guarantee against loss
resulting from an investment in the Fund, nor can there be any assurance that
the Fund's investment objective will be attained. As with any investment in
securities, the value of, and income from, an investment in the Fund can
decrease as well as increase, depending on a variety of factors which may
affect the values and income generated by the Fund's portfolio securities,
including general economic conditions and market factors. In addition to the
factors which affect the value of individual securities, you may anticipate
that the value of Fund shares will fluctuate with movements in the broader
equity and bond markets. A decline in the stock market of any country in which
the Fund is invested may also be reflected in declines in the price of the
shares of the Fund. History reflects both decreases and increases in worldwide
stock markets and currency valuations, and these may reoccur unpredictably in
the future.
Investment in Japanese Issuers. Because the Fund will, under normal conditions,
invest at least 80% of its assets in equity securities of Japanese issuers, the
Fund's performance is expected to be closely tied to economic and political
conditions in Japan, and its performance is expected to be more volatile than
more geographically diversified funds. Changes in regulatory, tax or economic
policy in Japan could significantly affect the Japanese securities markets and
therefore the Fund's performance.
Japan's economic growth has declined significantly since 1990. The general
government position has deteriorated as a result of weakening economic growth
and stimulative measures taken to support economic activity and to restore
financial stability. Although the decline in interest rates and fiscal
stimulation packages have helped to contain recessionary forces, uncertainties
remain. Japan is also heavily dependent upon international trade, so its
economy is especially sensitive to trade barriers and disputes. In addition,
Japan's banking industry is undergoing problems related to bad loans and
declining values in real estate.
The common stocks of many Japanese companies trade at high price-earnings
ratios. Differences in accounting methods make it difficult to compare the
earnings of Japanese companies with those of companies in other countries,
especially the U.S. In general, however, reported net income in Japan is
understated relative to U.S. accounting standards and this is one reason why
price-earnings ratios of the stocks of Japanese companies have tended
historically to be higher than those for U.S. stocks. In addition, Japanese
companies have
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
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tended historically to have higher growth rates than U.S. companies and Japanese
interest rates have generally been lower than in the U.S., both of which factors
tend to result in lower discount rates and higher price-earnings ratios in Japan
than in the U.S.
Foreign Investments. Up to 20% of the Fund's total assets may be invested in
securities of non-Japanese issuers, including issuers in developing countries.
You should consider carefully the substantial risks involved in investing in
securities issued by companies and governments of foreign nations, including
Japan, which are in addition to the usual risks inherent in domestic
investments. These risks are often heightened for investments in developing
markets, including certain Eastern European countries. See "What Are the Fund's
Potential Risks?" in the SAI. There is the possibility of expropriation,
nationalization or confiscatory taxation, taxation of income earned in foreign
nations (including, for example, withholding taxes on interest and dividends)
or other taxes imposed with respect to investments in foreign nations, foreign
exchange controls (which may include suspension of the ability to transfer
currency from a given country), foreign investment controls on daily stock
market movements, default in foreign government securities, political or social
instability or diplomatic developments which could affect investment in
securities of issuers in foreign nations. Some countries may withhold portions
of interest and dividends at the source. In addition, in many countries there
is less publicly available information about issuers than is available in
reports about companies in the U.S. Foreign companies are not generally subject
to uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, and auditing
practices and requirements may not be comparable to those applicable to U.S.
companies. Further, the Fund may encounter difficulties or be unable to vote
proxies, exercise shareholder rights, pursue legal remedies, and obtain
judgments in foreign courts.
As a non-fundamental policy, the Fund will limit its investment in Russian
securities to 5% of its total assets. Russian securities involve additional
significant risks, including political and social uncertainty (for example,
regional conflicts and risk of war), currency exchange rate volatility,
pervasiveness of corruption and crime in the Russian economic system, delays in
settling portfolio transactions and risk of loss arising out of Russia's system
of share registration and custody. For more information on these risks and
other risks associated with Russian securities, please see "What Are the Fund's
Potential Risks?" in the SAI.
Brokerage commissions, custodial services and other costs relating to investment
in foreign countries are generally more expensive than in the U.S. Brokerage
commissions in Japan are fixed. See "How Does the Fund Buy Securities for Its
Portfolio?" in the SAI. Foreign securities markets also have different clearance
and settlement procedures, and in certain markets there have been times when
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
12
settlements have been unable to keep pace with the volume of securities
transactions, making it difficult to conduct such transactions. Delays in
settlement could result in temporary periods when assets of the Fund are
uninvested and no return is earned thereon. The inability of the Fund to make
intended security purchases due to settlement problems could cause the Fund to
miss attractive investment opportunities. Inability to dispose of portfolio
securities due to settlement problems could result either in losses to the Fund
due to subsequent declines in value of the portfolio security or, if the Fund
has entered into a contract to sell the security, could result in possible
liability to the purchaser.
In many foreign countries there is less government supervision and regulation of
business and industry practices, stock exchanges, brokers and listed companies
than in the U.S. There is an increased risk, therefore, of uninsured loss due to
lost, stolen, or counterfeit stock certificates. In addition, the foreign
securities markets of many of the countries in which the Fund may invest may
also be smaller, less liquid, and subject to greater price volatility than
those in the U.S. As an open-end investment company, the Fund is limited in the
extent to which it may invest in illiquid securities. See "What Are the Fund's
Potential Risks?" in the SAI. The Tokyo Stock Exchange, however, has a large
volume of trading and the Investment Manager believes that securities of
companies traded in Japan are generally as liquid as securities of comparable
U.S. companies.
Prior governmental approval of foreign investments may be required under
certain circumstances in some developing countries, and the extent of foreign
investment in domestic companies may be subject to limitation in other
developing countries. Foreign ownership limitations also may be imposed by the
charters of individual companies in developing countries to prevent, among
other concerns, violation of foreign investment limitations.
Repatriation of investment income, capital and proceeds of sales by foreign
investors may require governmental registration and/or approval in some
developing countries. The Fund could be adversely affected by delays in or a
refusal to grant any required governmental registration or approval for such
repatriation.
Further, the economies of developing countries generally are heavily dependent
upon international trade and, accordingly, have been and may continue to be
adversely affected by trade barriers, exchange controls, managed adjustments in
relative currency values and other protectionist measures imposed or negotiated
by the countries with which they trade. These economies also have been and may
continue to be adversely affected by economic conditions in the countries with
which they trade.
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
13
Emerging Growth Companies. The Fund has established no criteria regarding the
minimum market capitalization of the companies in which it may invest. While
they may offer greater opportunities for capital appreciation than larger, more
established companies, investments in smaller, emerging growth companies may
involve greater risks and thus may be considered speculative. For example, small
companies may have limited product lines, markets or financial and management
resources. In addition, many small emerging growth company stocks trade less
frequently and in smaller volume, and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic
price movements, than stocks of large companies. The securities of small
emerging growth companies may also be more sensitive to market changes than the
securities of large companies.
High-Risk Debt Securities. The Fund is authorized to invest in debt securities
rated in any category by S&P or Moody's and securities which are unrated by any
rating agency. See "How Does the Fund Invest Its Assets? - Debt Securities." in
the SAI. As an operating policy, which may be changed by the Board without
shareholder approval, the Fund will not invest more than 5% of its total assets
in debt securities rated lower than BBB by S&P or Baa by Moody's. The Board may
consider a change in this operating policy if, in its judgment, economic
conditions change such that a higher level of investment in high-risk, lower
quality debt securities would be consistent with the interests of the Fund and
its shareholders. See "How Does the Fund Invest Its Assets? - Debt Securities."
in the SAI for descriptions of debt securities rated BBB by S&P and Baa by
Moody's. High-risk, lower quality debt securities, commonly referred to as "junk
bonds," are regarded, on balance, as predominantly speculative with respect to
the issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with the
terms of the obligation and may be in default. Unrated debt securities are not
necessarily of lower quality than rated securities, but they may not be
attractive to as many buyers. Regardless of rating levels, all debt securities
considered for purchase (whether rated or unrated) will be carefully analyzed
by the Investment Manager to insure, to the extent possible, that the planned
investment is sound. The Fund may, from time to time, invest up to 5% of its
total assets in defaulted debt securities if, in the opinion of the Investment
Manager, the issuer may resume interest payments in the near future.
Leverage. Leveraging by means of borrowing may exaggerate the effect of any
increase or decrease in the value of portfolio securities on the Fund's net
asset value, and money borrowed will be subject to interest and other costs
(which may include commitment fees and/or the cost of maintaining minimum
average balances) which may or may not exceed the income received from the
securities purchased with borrowed funds.
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
14
Futures Contracts and Related Options. Successful use of futures contracts and
related options is subject to special risk considerations. A liquid secondary
market for any futures or options contract may not be available when a futures
or options position is sought to be closed. In addition, there may be an
imperfect correlation between movements in the securities or foreign currency
on which the futures or options contract is based and movements in the
securities or currency in the Fund's portfolio. Successful use of futures or
options contracts is further dependent on the Investment Manager's ability to
correctly predict movements in the securities or foreign currency markets, and
no assurance can be given that its judgment will be correct. Successful use of
options on securities or securities indices is subject to similar risk
considerations. The Fund has the authority to purchase over-the-counter
options, which are generally less liquid than exchange traded options. In
addition, by writing covered call options, the Fund gives up the opportunity,
while the option is in effect, to profit from any price increase in the
underlying security above the option exercise price.
There are further risk factors, including possible losses through the holding of
securities in domestic and foreign custodian banks and depositories, described
elsewhere in the Prospectus and in the SAI.
WHO MANAGES THE FUND?
The Board. The Board oversees the management of the Fund and elects its
officers. The officers are responsible for the Fund's day-to-day operations.
Investment Manager. The Investment Manager is wholly owned by Resources, a
publicly owned company engaged in the financial services industry through its
subsidiaries. Charles B. Johnson and Rupert H. Johnson, Jr. are the principal
shareholders of Resources. The Investment Manager and its affiliates serve as
advisers for a wide variety of public investment mutual funds and private
clients throughout the world, with total assets under management of over $143
billion. The Templeton organization has been investing globally since 1940. The
Investment Manager and its affiliates have offices in Argentina, Australia,
Bahamas, Canada, France, Germany, Hong Kong, India, Italy, Luxembourg, Poland,
Russia, Scotland, Singapore, South Africa, U.S., and Vietnam.
Portfolio Management. The lead portfolio manager of the Fund since its
inception is William T. Howard, Jr. Mr. Howard is vice president of the
Investment Manager. He holds a BA degree in international studies from Rhodes
College and an MBA degree in finance from Emory University. He is a Chartered
Financial Analyst and a member of the Financial Analysts Society. Before
joining the Templeton organization in 1993, Mr. Howard was a portfolio
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
15
manager and analyst with Tennessee Consolidated Retirement System in Nashville,
Tennessee, where he was responsible for research and management of the
international equity portfolio, and specialized in the Japanese equity market.
As a portfolio manager and research analyst with Templeton, Mr. Howard's
research responsibilities include the transportation/shipping and hospital
management and supplies industries worldwide. He is also responsible for
research coverage of both Japan and New Zealand.
Gary P. Motyl and Gary R. Clemons exercise secondary portfolio management
responsibilities for the Fund. Mr. Motyl is senior vice president of the
Investment Manager. He holds a BS degree in finance from Lehigh University and
an MBA degree in finance from Pace University. He is a Chartered Financial
Analyst. Prior to joining the Templeton organization in 1981, Mr. Motyl worked
from 1974 to 1979 as a security analyst with Standard & Poor's Corporation, and
as a research analyst and portfolio manager from 1979 to 1981 with Landmark
First Mortgage Bank, where he had responsibility for equity research and
managed several pension and profit sharing plans. His research responsibilities
with Templeton include the global automobile industry and country coverage of
Germany. Mr. Clemons is vice president of the Investment Manager. He holds a BS
degree in geology from the University of Nevada and an MBA degree in finance
from the University of Wisconsin. He joined the Investment Manager in 1993.
Prior to that time he was a research analyst at Templeton Quantitative
Advisors, Inc. in New York, where he was also responsible for management of a
small capitalization fund. As a research analyst with Templeton, Mr. Clemons has
responsibility for the telecommunications industries and country coverage of
Columbia, Peru, Sweden and Norway.
Services Provided by the Investment Manager and Business Manager. The
Investment Manager manages the Fund's assets and makes its investment
decisions. The Fund's Business Manager provides certain administrative
facilities and services for the Fund. Please see "Investment Advisory and Other
Services" and "Miscellaneous Information" in the SAI for information on
securities transactions and a summary of the Fund's Code of Ethics.
Investment Management and Business Management Fees. For the fiscal year ended
March 31, 1996, the Fund paid no (0.00%) investment management or business
management fees. The Investment and Business Managers voluntarily agreed to
reduce their fees in order to limit total expenses of the Fund. Without this
voluntary agreement, investment management fees would be 0.75% of the Fund's
average daily net assets and business management fees would be 0.15% of the
Fund's average daily net assets. After December 31, 1996, this agreement may
end at any time upon notice to the Board.
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
16
Expenses. For the fiscal year ended March 31, 1996, the "Total Fund Operating
Expenses" were 2.00% of the Fund's average daily net assets. Without the
Investment and Business Managers' voluntary agreement to limit total expenses,
"Total Fund Operating Expenses" would be 4.90%.
Portfolio Transactions. The Investment Manager tries to obtain the best
execution on all transactions. If the Investment Manager believes more than one
broker or dealer can provide the best execution, it may consider research and
related services and the sale of Fund shares when selecting a broker or dealer.
Please see "How Does the Fund Buy Securities For Its Portfolio?" in the SAI for
more information.
The Fund's Rule 12b-1 Plan
The Fund has a distribution plan or "Rule 12b-1 Plan" under which it may
reimburse Distributors or others for activities primarily intended to sell
shares of the Fund. These expenses may include, among others, distribution or
service fees paid to Securities Dealers or others who have executed a servicing
agreement with the Fund, Distributors or its affiliates, printing prospectuses
and reports used for sales purposes, preparing and distributing sales
literature and advertisements, and a prorated portion of Distributors' overhead
expenses.
Payments by the Fund under the plan may not exceed 0.35% per year of the Fund's
average daily net assets. For more information, please see "The Fund's
Underwriter" in the SAI.
Under the plan, costs and expenses not reimbursed in any quarter (including
costs and expenses not reimbursed because they exceed the applicable limit of
the plan) may be reimbursed in subsequent quarters or years. Distributors has
informed the Fund that costs and expenses that may be reimbursable in future
quarters or years were $9,117 (0.15% of net assets) at March 31, 1996.
HOW DOES THE FUND MEASURE PERFORMANCE?
From time to time, the Fund advertises its performance. The more commonly used
measure of performance is total return. Performance figures are usually
calculated using the maximum sales charge, but certain figures may not include
the sales charge.
Total return is the change in value of an investment over a given period. It
assumes any dividends and capital gains are reinvested.
The Fund's investment results will vary. Performance figures are always based on
past performance and do not indicate future results. For a more detailed
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
17
description of how the Fund calculates its performance figures, please see "How
Does the Fund Measure Performance?" in the SAI.
HOW IS THE FUND ORGANIZED?
The Fund is a diversified open-end management investment company, commonly
called a mutual fund. It was organized as a business trust under the laws of
Delaware on October 29, 1991, and is registered with the SEC under the 1940
Act. Each share of the Fund has one vote. All shares have equal voting,
participation and liquidation rights. Shares of the Fund are considered Class I
shares for redemption, exchange and other purposes. In the future, the Fund may
offer additional classes of shares.
The Fund has noncumulative voting rights. This gives holders of more than 50%
of the shares voting the ability to elect all of the members of the Board. If
this happens, holders of the remaining shares voting will not be able to elect
anyone to the Board.
The Fund does not intend to hold annual shareholder meetings. It may hold a
special meeting, however, for matters requiring shareholder approval under the
1940 Act. The Fund will call a special meeting of shareholders for the purpose
of considering the removal of a Board member if requested in writing to do so
by shareholders holding at least 10% of the outstanding shares. The 1940 Act
requires that we help you communicate with other shareholders in connection
with electing or removing members of the Board.
HOW TAXATION AFFECTS YOU AND THE FUND
Federal Tax Information
The following discussion reflects some of the tax considerations that affect
mutual funds and their shareholders. For more information on tax matters
relating to the Fund and its shareholders, see "Additional Information on
Distributions and Taxes" in the SAI.
The Fund intends to elect to be treated and to qualify each year as a regulated
investment company under Subchapter M of the Code. A regulated investment
company generally is not subject to Federal income tax on income and gains
distributed in a timely manner to its shareholders. The Fund intends to
distribute to shareholders substantially all of its net investment income and
net realized capital gains, which generally will be taxable income or capital
gains in their hands. Distributions declared in October, November or December to
shareholders of record on a date in such month and paid during the following
January will be treated as having been received by shareholders on December 31
in the year such distributions were declared. The Fund will inform shareholders
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
18
each year of the amount and nature of such income or gains. Sales or other
dispositions of Fund shares generally will give rise to taxable gain or loss.
Japan Taxes
Pursuant to the tax convention between the U.S. and Japan (the "Convention"), a
Japanese withholding tax at the maximum rate of 15% is, with certain
exceptions, imposed upon dividends paid by Japanese corporations to the Fund.
Pursuant to the present terms of the Convention, interest received by the Fund
from sources within Japan is subject to a Japanese withholding tax at a maximum
rate of 10%. Capital gains of the Fund arising from its investments as
described herein are not taxable in Japan.
Generally, the Fund will be subject to the Japan securities transaction tax on
its sale of certain securities in Japan. The current rates of such tax range
from 0.03% to 0.30% depending upon the particular type of securities involved.
Transactions involving equity securities are currently taxed at the highest
rate.
ABOUT YOUR ACCOUNT
HOW DO I BUY SHARES?
Opening Your Account
To open your account, contact your investment representative or complete and
sign the enclosed shareholder application and return it to the Fund with your
check.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MINIMUM
INVESTMENTS*
<S> <C>
- --------------------------------------
To Open Your Account... $100
To Add to Your
Account.............. $ 25
</TABLE>
*We may waive these minimums for retirement plans. We may also refuse any order
to buy shares.
Sales Charge Reductions and Waivers
--If you qualify to buy shares under one of the sales charge reduction or
waiver categories described below, please include a written statement with each
purchase order explaining which privilege applies. If you don't include this
statement, we cannot guarantee that you will receive the sales charge reduction
or waiver.
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
19
Quantity Discounts. The sales charge you pay depends on the dollar amount you
invest, as shown in the table below.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TOTAL SALES CHARGE
AS A PERCENTAGE OF AMOUNT PAID
--------------------- TO DEALER AS A
AMOUNT OF PURCHASE OFFERING NET AMOUNT PERCENTAGE OF
AT OFFERING PRICE PRICE INVESTED OFFERING PRICE
<S> <C> <C> <C>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Less than $50,000.................. 5.75% 6.10% 5.00%
$50,000 but less than $100,000..... 4.50% 4.71% 3.75%
$100,000 but less than $250,000.... 3.50% 3.63% 2.80%
$250,000 but less than $500,000.... 2.50% 2.56% 2.00%
$500,000 but less than
$1,000,000....................... 2.00% 2.04% 1.60%
$1,000,000 or more*................ None None None
</TABLE>
*If you buy $1 million or more, a Contingent Deferred Sales Charge may be
imposed. Please see "How Do I Sell Shares? - Contingent Deferred Sales Charge."
Please also see "Other Payments to Securities Dealers" below for a discussion
of payments Distributors may make out of its own resources to Securities
Dealers for certain purchases.
Cumulative Quantity Discounts. To determine if you may pay a reduced sales
charge, the amount of your current purchase is added to the cost or current
value, whichever is higher, of your Class I and Class II shares in other
Franklin Templeton Funds, as well as those of your spouse, children under the
age of 21 and grandchildren under the age of 21. If you are the sole owner of a
company, you may also add any company accounts, including retirement plan
accounts. Companies with one or more retirement plans may add together the
total plan assets invested in the Franklin Templeton Funds to determine the
sales charge that applies.
Letter of Intent. You may buy shares at a reduced sales charge by completing the
Letter of Intent section of the shareholder application. A Letter of Intent is a
commitment by you to invest a specified dollar amount during a 13 month period.
The amount you agree to invest determines the sales charge you pay.
BY COMPLETING THE LETTER OF INTENT SECTION OF THE SHAREHOLDER APPLICATION, YOU
ACKNOWLEDGE AND AGREE TO THE FOLLOWING:
- - You authorize Distributors to reserve 5% of your total intended purchase in
Fund shares registered in your name until you fulfill your Letter.
- - You give Distributors a security interest in the reserved shares and appoint
Distributors as attorney-in-fact.
- - Distributors may sell any or all of the reserved shares to cover any
additional sales charge if you do not fulfill the terms of the Letter.
- - Although you may exchange your shares, you may not sell reserved shares until
you complete the Letter or pay the higher sales charge.
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
20
Your periodic statements will include the reserved shares in the total shares
you own. We will pay or reinvest dividend and capital gain distributions on the
reserved shares as you direct. Our policy of reserving shares does not apply to
certain retirement plans.
If you would like more information about the Letter of Intent privilege, please
see "How Do I Buy, Sell and Exchange Shares? - Letter of Intent" in the SAI or
call Shareholder Services.
Group Purchases. If you are a member of a qualified group, you may buy Fund
shares at a reduced sales charge that applies to the group as a whole. The sales
charge is based on the combined dollar value of the group members' existing
investments, plus the amount of the current purchase.
A qualified group is one that:
- - Was formed at least six months ago,
- - Has a purpose other than buying Fund shares at a discount,
- - Has more than 10 members,
- - Can arrange for meetings between our representatives and group members,
- - Agrees to include sales and other Franklin Templeton Fund materials in
publications and mailings to its members at reduced or no cost to
Distributors,
- - Agrees to arrange for payroll deduction or other bulk transmission of
investments to the Fund, and
- - Meets other uniform criteria that allow Distributors to achieve cost savings
in distributing shares.
Sales Charge Waivers. The Fund's sales charges (front-end and contingent
deferred) will not apply to certain purchases. For waiver categories 1, 2 or 3
below: (i) the distributions or payments must be reinvested within 365 days of
their payment date, and (ii) Class II distributions may be reinvested in either
Class I or Class II shares. Class I distributions may only be reinvested in
Class I shares.
The Fund's sales charges will not apply if you are buying shares with money
from the following sources:
1. Dividend and capital gain distributions from any Franklin Templeton Fund
or a REIT sponsored or advised by Franklin Properties, Inc.
2. Distributions from an existing retirement plan invested in the Franklin
Templeton Funds
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
21
3. Annuity payments received under either an annuity option or from death
benefit proceeds, only if the annuity contract offers as an investment
option the Franklin Valuemark Funds, Templeton Variable Annuity Fund, the
Templeton Variable Products Series Fund, or the Franklin Government
Securities Trust. You should contact your tax advisor for information on
any tax consequences that may apply.
4. Redemptions from any Franklin Templeton Fund if you:
- Originally paid a sales charge on the shares,
- Reinvest the money within 365 days of the redemption date, and
- Reinvest the money in the same class of shares.
An exchange is not considered a redemption for this privilege. The Contingent
Deferred Sales Charge will not be waived if the shares reinvested were subject
to a Contingent Deferred Sales Charge when sold. We will credit your account in
shares, at the current value, in proportion to the amount reinvested for any
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge paid in connection with the earlier
redemption, but a new Contingency Period will begin.
If you immediately placed your redemption proceeds in a Franklin Bank CD, you
may reinvest them as described above. The proceeds must be reinvested within
365 days from the date the CD matures, including any rollover.
5. Redemptions from other mutual funds
If you sold shares of a fund that is not a Franklin Templeton Fund within
the past 60 days, you may invest the proceeds without any sales charge if
(a) the investment objectives were similar to the Fund's, and (b) your
shares in that fund were subject to any front-end or contingent deferred
sales charges at the time of purchase. You must provide a copy of the
statement showing your redemption.
The Fund's sales charges will also not apply to purchases by:
6. Trust companies and bank trust departments agreeing to invest in Franklin
Templeton Funds over a 13 month period at least $1 million of assets held
in a fiduciary, agency, advisory, custodial or similar capacity and over
which the trust companies and bank trust departments or other plan
fiduciaries or participants, in the case of certain retirement plans, have
full or shared investment discretion. We will accept orders for these
accounts by mail accompanied by a check or by telephone or other means of
electronic data transfer directly from the bank or trust company, with
payment by
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
22
federal funds received by the close of business on the next business day
following the order.
7. Group annuity separate accounts offered to retirement plans
8. Retirement plans that (i) are sponsored by an employer with at least 100
employees, (ii) have plan assets of $1 million or more, or (iii) agree to
invest at least $500,000 in the Franklin Templeton Funds over a 13 month
period. Retirement plans that are not Qualified Retirement Plans or SEPS,
such as 403(b) or 457 plans, must also meet the requirements described
under "Group Purchases" above. However, any Qualified or non-Qualified
Retirement Plan account which was a shareholder in the Fund on or before
February 1, 1995, and which does not meet the other requirements of this
section, may purchase shares subject to sales charge of 4% of the Offering
Price, 3.2% of which will be retained by Securities Dealers.
9. An Eligible Governmental Authority. Please consult your legal and
investment advisors to determine if an investment in the Fund is
permissible and suitable for you and the effect, if any, of payments by the
Fund on arbitrage rebate calculations.
10. Broker-dealers who have entered into a supplemental agreement with
Distributors for clients who are participating in comprehensive fee
programs. These programs, sometimes known as wrap fee programs, are
sponsored by the broker-dealer and either advised by the broker-dealer or
by another registered investment advisor affiliated with that broker.
11. Registered Securities Dealers and their affiliates, for their investment
accounts only
12. Current employees of Securities Dealers and their affiliates and their
family members, as allowed by the internal policies of their employer
13. Officers, trustees, directors and full-time employees of the Franklin
Templeton Funds or the Franklin Templeton Group, and their family members,
consistent with our then-current policies
14. Investment companies exchanging shares or selling assets pursuant to a
merger, acquisition or exchange offer
15. Accounts managed by the Franklin Templeton Group
16. Certain unit investment trusts and their holders reinvesting distributions
from the trusts
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
23
Other Payments to Securities Dealers
The payments below apply to Securities Dealers who initiate and are responsible
for certain purchases made without a sales charge. A Securities Dealer may only
receive one of the following payments for each qualifying purchase. The
payments described below are paid by Distributors or one of its affiliates, at
its own expense, and not by the Fund or its shareholders.
1. Securities Dealers will receive up to 1% of the purchase price for purchases
of $1 million or more.
2. Securities Dealers may, in the sole discretion of Distributors, receive up to
1% of the purchase price for purchases made under waiver category 8 above.
3. Securities Dealers may receive up to 0.25% of the purchase price for
purchases made under waiver categories 6 and 9 above.
PLEASE SEE "HOW DO I BUY, SELL AND EXCHANGE SHARES - OTHER PAYMENTS TO
SECURITIES DEALERS" IN THE SAI FOR ANY BREAKPOINTS THAT MAY APPLY.
Securities Dealers may receive additional compensation from Distributors or an
affiliated company in connection with selling shares of the Franklin Templeton
Funds. Compensation may include financial assistance for conferences,
shareholder services, automation, sales or training programs, or promotional
activities. Registered representatives and their families may be paid for
travel expenses, including lodging, in connection with business meetings or
seminars. In some cases, this compensation may only be available to Securities
Dealers whose representatives have sold or are expected to sell significant
amounts of shares. Securities Dealers may not use sales of the Fund's shares to
qualify for this compensation if prohibited by the laws of any state or
self-regulatory agency, such as the NASD.
MAY I EXCHANGE SHARES FOR SHARES OF ANOTHER FUND?
We offer a wide variety of funds. If you would like, you can move your
investment from your Fund account to an existing or new account in another
Franklin Templeton Fund (an "exchange"). Because it is technically a sale and a
purchase of shares, an exchange is a taxable transaction.
Before making an exchange, please read the prospectus of the fund you are
interested in. This will help you learn about the fund and its rules and
requirements for exchanges. For example, some Franklin Templeton Funds do not
accept exchanges and others may have different investment minimums.
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
24
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
METHOD STEPS TO FOLLOW
<S> <C>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
BY MAIL 1. Send us written instructions signed by all
account owners
2. Include any outstanding share certificates
for the shares you're exchanging
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
BY PHONE Call Shareholder Services or TeleFACTS(R)
If you do not want the ability to exchange by
phone to apply to your account, please let us
know.
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
THROUGH YOUR DEALER Call your investment representative
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
Please refer to "Transaction Procedures and Special Requirements" for other
important information on how to exchange shares.
Will Sales Charges Apply to My Exchange?
You generally will not pay a front-end sales charge on exchanges. If you have
held your shares less than six months, however, you will pay the percentage
difference between the sales charge you previously paid and the applicable sales
charge of the new fund. If you have never paid a sales charge on your shares
because, for example, they have always been held in a money fund, you will pay
the Fund's applicable sales charge no matter how long you have held your shares.
These charges may not apply if you qualify to buy shares without a sales charge.
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge. We will not impose a Contingent Deferred
Sales Charge when you exchange shares. Any shares subject to a Contingent
Deferred Sales Charge at the time of exchange, however, will remain so in the
new fund. For accounts with shares subject to a Contingent Deferred Sales
Charge, shares are exchanged into the new fund in the order they were
purchased. If you exchange shares into one of our money funds, the time your
shares are held in that fund will not count towards the completion of any
Contingency Period. For more information about the Contingent Deferred Sales
Charge, please see that section under "How Do I Sell Shares?"
Exchange Restrictions
Please be aware that the following restrictions apply to exchanges:
- - You may only exchange shares within the SAME CLASS.
- - The accounts must be identically registered. You may exchange shares from a
Fund account requiring two or more signatures into an identically registered
money fund account requiring only one signature for all transactions. Please
notify us in writing if you do not want this option to be available on your
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
25
account(s). Additional procedures may apply. Please see "Transaction
Procedures and Special Requirements."
- - Trust Company IRA or 403(b) retirement plan accounts may exchange shares as
described above. Restrictions may apply to other types of retirement plans.
Please contact our Retirement Plans Department for information on exchanges
within these plans.
- - The fund you are exchanging into must be eligible for sale in your state.
- - We may modify or discontinue our exchange policy if we give you 60 days'
written notice.
- - Your exchange may be restricted or refused if you: (i) request an exchange out
of the Fund within two weeks of an earlier exchange request, (ii) exchange
shares out of the Fund more than twice in a calendar quarter, or (iii)
exchange shares equal to at least $5 million, or more than 1% of the Fund's
net assets. Shares under common ownership or control are combined for these
limits. If you exchange shares as described in this paragraph, you will be
considered a Market Timer. Each exchange by a Market Timer, if accepted, will
be charged $5.00. Some of our funds do not allow investments by Market Timers.
Because excessive trading can hurt Fund performance and shareholders, we may
refuse any exchange purchase if (i) we believe the Fund would be harmed or
unable to invest effectively, or (ii) the Fund receives or anticipates
simultaneous orders that may significantly affect the Fund.
HOW DO I SELL SHARES?
You may sell (redeem) your shares at any time.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
METHOD STEPS TO FOLLOW
<S> <C>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
BY MAIL 1. Send us written instructions signed by all
account owners
2. Include any outstanding share certificates
for the shares you are selling
3. Provide a signature guarantee if required
4. Corporate, partnership and trust accounts
may need to send additional documents.
Accounts under court jurisdiction may have
additional requirements.
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
26
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
METHOD STEPS TO FOLLOW
<S> <C>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
BY PHONE
(Only available if you have completed and sent to us the telephone
redemption agreement included with this prospectus)
Telephone requests will be accepted:
- If the request is $50,000 or less.
Institutional accounts may exceed $50,000 by
completing a separate agreement. Call
Institutional Services to receive a copy.
- If there are no share certificates issued
for the shares you want to sell or you have
already returned them to the Fund
- Unless you are selling shares in a Trust
Company retirement plan account
- Unless the address on your account was
changed by phone within the last 30 days
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
THROUGH YOUR DEALER Call your investment representative.
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
We will send your redemption check within seven days after we receive your
request in proper form. If you sell your shares by phone, the check may only be
made payable to all registered owners on the account and sent to the address of
record. We are not able to receive or pay out cash in the form of currency.
If you sell shares you just purchased with a check or draft, we may delay
sending you the proceeds for up to 15 days or more to allow the check or draft
to clear. A certified or cashier's check may clear in less time.
Under unusual circumstances, we may suspend redemptions or postpone payment for
more than seven days as permitted by federal securities law.
Please refer to "Transaction Procedures and Special Requirements" for other
important information on how to sell shares.
Trust Company Retirement Plan Accounts
To comply with IRS regulations, you need to complete additional forms before
selling shares in a Trust Company retirement plan account. Tax penalties
generally apply to any distribution from these plans to a participant under age
59 1/2, unless the distribution meets an exception stated in the Code. To obtain
the necessary forms, please call our Retirement Plans Department.
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
27
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge
If you did not pay a front-end sales charge because you invested $1 million or
more, a Contingent Deferred Sales Charge may apply if you sell all or a part of
your investment within the Contingency Period. The charge is 1% of the value of
the shares sold or the Net Asset Value at the time of purchase, whichever is
less. Distributors keeps the charge to recover payments made to Securities
Dealers.
We will first redeem shares not subject to the charge in the following order:
1) A calculated number of shares equal to the capital appreciation on shares
held less than the Contingency Period,
2) Shares purchased with reinvested dividends and capital gain distributions,
and
3) Shares held longer than the Contingency Period.
We then redeem shares subject to the charge in the order they were purchased.
Unless otherwise specified, when you request to sell a stated DOLLAR AMOUNT, we
will redeem additional shares to cover any Contingent Deferred Sales Charge. For
requests to sell a stated NUMBER OF SHARES, we will deduct the amount of the
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge, if any, from the sale proceeds.
Waivers. We waive the Contingent Deferred Sales Charge for:
- - Exchanges
- - Account fees
- - Sales of shares purchased pursuant to a sales charge waiver
- - Redemptions by the Fund when an account falls below the minimum required
account size
- - Redemptions following the death of the shareholder or beneficial owner
- - Redemptions through a systematic withdrawal plan set up before February 1,
1995
- - Redemptions through a systematic withdrawal plan set up after February 1,
1995, up to 1% a month of an account's Net Asset Value (3% quarterly, 6%
semiannually or 12% annually). For example, if you maintain an annual balance
of $1 million, you can withdraw up to $120,000 annually through a systematic
withdrawal plan free of charge.
- - Distributions from individual retirement plan accounts due to death or
disability or upon periodic distributions based on life expectancy
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
28
- - Tax-free returns of excess contributions from employee benefit plans
- - Distributions from employee benefit plans, including those due to termination
or plan transfer
WHAT DISTRIBUTIONS MIGHT I RECEIVE FROM THE FUND?
The Fund intends to pay a dividend at least annually representing substantially
all of its net investment income and any net realized capital gains.
Dividend payments are not guaranteed, are subject to the Board's discretion and
may vary with each payment. THE FUND DOES NOT PAY "INTEREST" OR GUARANTEE ANY
FIXED RATE OF RETURN ON AN INVESTMENT IN ITS SHARES.
If you buy shares shortly before the record date, please keep in mind that any
distribution will lower the value of the Fund's shares by the amount of the
distribution.
Distribution Options
You may receive your distributions from the Fund in any of these ways:
1. Buy additional shares of the Fund - You may buy additional shares of the Fund
(without a sales charge or imposition of a Contingent Deferred Sales Charge) by
reinvesting capital gain distributions, dividend distributions, or both. This
is a convenient way to accumulate additional shares and maintain or increase
your earnings base.
2. Buy shares of other Franklin Templeton Funds - You may direct your
distributions to buy the same class of shares of another Franklin Templeton
Fund (without a sales charge or imposition of a Contingent Deferred Sales
Charge). Many shareholders find this a convenient way to diversify their
investments.
3. Receive distributions in cash - You may receive dividends and/or capital gain
distributions in cash. If you have the money sent to another person or to a
checking account, you may need a signature guarantee.
TO SELECT ONE OF THESE OPTIONS, PLEASE COMPLETE THE SHAREHOLDER APPLICATION
INCLUDED WITH THIS PROSPECTUS OR TELL YOUR INVESTMENT REPRESENTATIVE WHICH
OPTION YOU PREFER. IF YOU DO NOT SELECT AN OPTION, WE WILL AUTOMATICALLY
REINVEST DIVIDEND AND CAPITAL GAIN DISTRIBUTIONS IN THE FUND. For Trust Company
retirement plans, special forms are required to receive distributions in cash.
You may change your distribution option at any time by notifying us by mail or
phone. Please allow at least seven days prior to the record date for us to
process the new option.
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
29
TRANSACTION PROCEDURES AND SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS
How and When Shares Are Priced
The Fund is open for business each day the Exchange is open. We determine the
Net Asset Value per share as of the scheduled close of the Exchange, generally
4:00 p.m. Eastern time. You can find the prior day's closing Net Asset Value and
Offering Price of the Fund in many newspapers.
To calculate Net Asset Value per share, the Fund's assets are valued and
totaled, liabilities are subtracted, and the balance, called net assets, is
divided by the number of shares outstanding. The Fund's assets are valued as
described under "How Are Fund Shares Valued?" in the SAI.
The Price We Use When You Buy or Sell Shares
You buy shares at the Offering Price, unless you qualify to buy shares at a
reduced sales charge or with no sales charge. The Offering Price is based on the
Net Asset Value per share and includes the maximum sales charge. We calculate
it to two decimal places using standard rounding criteria. You sell shares at
Net Asset Value.
We will use the Net Asset Value next calculated after we receive your
transaction request in proper form. If you buy or sell shares through your
Securities Dealer, however, we will use the Net Asset Value next calculated
after your Securities Dealer receives your request, which is promptly
transmitted to the Fund. Your redemption proceeds will not earn interest
between the time we receive the order from your dealer and the time we receive
any required documents.
Proper Form
An order to buy shares is in proper form when we receive your signed
shareholder application and check. Written requests to sell or exchange shares
are in proper form when we receive written instructions signed by all registered
owners, with a signature guarantee if necessary. We must also receive any
outstanding share certificates for those shares.
Written Instructions
Written instructions must be signed by all registered owners. To avoid any delay
in processing your transaction, they should include:
- - Your name,
- - The Fund's name,
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
30
- - A description of the request,
- - For exchanges, the name of the fund you're exchanging into,
- - Your account number,
- - The dollar amount or number of shares, and
- - A telephone number where we may reach you during the day, or in the evening
if preferred.
Signature Guarantees
For our mutual protection, we require a signature guarantee in the following
situations:
1) You wish to sell over $50,000 worth of shares,
2) You want the proceeds to be paid to someone other than the registered owners,
3) The proceeds are not being sent to the address of record, preauthorized bank
account, or preauthorized brokerage firm account,
4) We receive instructions from an agent, not the registered owners,
5) We believe a signature guarantee would protect us against potential claims
based on the instructions received.
A signature guarantee verifies the authenticity of your signature and may be
obtained from certain banks, brokers or other eligible guarantors. YOU SHOULD
VERIFY THAT THE INSTITUTION IS AN ELIGIBLE GUARANTOR PRIOR TO SIGNING. A
NOTARIZED SIGNATURE IS NOT SUFFICIENT.
Share Certificates
We will credit your shares to your Fund account. We do not issue share
certificates unless you specifically request them this eliminates the costly
problem of replacing lost, stolen or destroyed certificates. If a certificate
is lost, stolen or destroyed, you may have to pay an insurance premium of up to
2% of the value of the certificate to replace it.
Any outstanding share certificates must be returned to the Fund if you want to
sell or exchange those shares or if you would like to start a systematic
withdrawal plan. The certificates should be properly endorsed. You can do this
either by signing the back of the certificate or by completing a share
assignment form. For your protection, you may prefer to complete a share
assignment form.
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
31
In this case, you should send the certificate and assignment form in separate
envelopes.
Telephone Transactions
You may initiate many transactions by phone. Please refer to the sections of
this prospectus that discuss the transaction you would like to make or call
Shareholder Services.
We may only be liable for losses resulting from unauthorized telephone
transactions if we do not follow reasonable procedures designed to verify the
identity of the caller. When you call, we will request personal or other
identifying information, and will also record calls. For your protection, we may
delay a transaction or not implement one if we are not reasonably satisfied that
telephone instructions are genuine. If this occurs, we will not be liable for
any loss.
If our lines are busy or you are otherwise unable to reach us by phone, you may
wish to ask your investment representative for assistance or send written
instructions to us, as described elsewhere in this prospectus. If you are
unable to execute a transaction by telephone, we will not be liable for any
loss.
Trust Company Retirement Plan Accounts. You may not sell shares or change
distribution options on Trust Company retirement plans by phone. While you may
exchange shares of Trust Company IRA and 403(b) retirement accounts by phone,
certain restrictions may be imposed on other retirement plans.
To obtain any required forms or more information about distribution or transfer
procedures, please call our Retirement Plans Department.
Account Registrations and Required Documents
When you open an account, you need to tell us how you want your shares
registered. How you register your account will affect your ownership rights and
ability to make certain transactions. If you have questions about how to
register your account, you should consult your investment representative or
legal advisor. Please keep the following information in mind when registering
your account.
Joint Ownership. If you open an account with two or more owners, we register
the account as "joint tenants with rights of survivorship" unless you tell us
otherwise. An account registered as "joint tenants with rights of survivorship"
is shown as "Jt Ten" on your account statement. For any account with two or
more owners, all owners must sign instructions to process transactions and
changes to the account. Even if the law in your state says otherwise, you will
not be able to change owners on the account unless all owners agree in writing.
If
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
32
you would like another person or owner to sign for you, please send us a
current power of attorney.
Gifts and Transfers to Minors. You may set up a custodial account for a minor
under your state's Uniform Gifts/Transfers to Minors Act. Other than this form
of registration, a minor may not be named as an account owner.
Trusts. If you register your account as a trust, you should have a valid written
trust document to avoid future disputes or possible court action over who owns
the account.
Required Documents. For corporate, partnership and trust accounts, please send
us the following documents when you open your account. This will help avoid
delays in processing your transactions while we verify who may sign on the
account.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TYPE OF ACCOUNT DOCUMENTS REQUIRED
<S> <C>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------
CORPORATION Corporate Resolution
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------
PARTNERSHIP 1. The pages from the partnership agreement that
identify the general partners, or
2. A certification for a partnership agreement
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------
TRUST 1. The pages from the trust document that
identify the trustees, or
2. A certification for trust
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
Street or Nominee Accounts. If you have Fund shares held in a "street" or
"nominee" name account with your Securities Dealer, you may transfer the shares
to the street or nominee name account of another Securities Dealer. Both
dealers must have an agreement with Distributors or we will not process the
transfer. Contact your Securities Dealer to initiate the transfer. We will
process the transfer after we receive authorization in proper form from your
delivering Securities Dealer. Accounts may be transferred electronically
through the NSCC. For accounts registered in street or nominee name, we may
take instructions directly from the Securities Dealer or your nominee.
Electronic Instructions. If there is a Securities Dealer or other
representative of record on your account, we are authorized to use and execute
electronic instructions. We can accept electronic instructions directly from
your dealer or representative without further inquiry. Electronic instructions
may be processed through the services of the NSCC, which currently include the
NSCC's "Networking," "Fund/SERV," and "ACATS" systems, or through
Franklin/Templeton's PCTrades II(TM) System.
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
33
Tax Identification Number
For tax reasons, we must have your correct Social Security or tax identification
number on a signed shareholder application or applicable tax form. Federal law
requires us to withhold 31% of your taxable distributions and sale proceeds if
(i) you have not furnished a certified correct taxpayer identification number,
(ii) you have not certified that withholding does not apply, (iii) the IRS or a
Securities Dealer notifies the Fund that the number you gave us is incorrect, or
(iv) you are subject to backup withholding.
We may refuse to open an account if you fail to provide the required tax
identification number and certifications. We may also close your account if the
IRS notifies us that your tax identification number is incorrect. If you
complete an "awaiting TIN" certification, we must receive a correct tax
identification number within 60 days of your initial purchase to keep your
account open.
Keeping Your Account Open
Due to the relatively high cost of maintaining a small account, we may close
your account if the value of your shares is less than $50. We will only do this
if the value of your account fell below this amount because you voluntarily sold
your shares and your account has been inactive (except for the reinvestment of
distributions) for at least six months. Before we close your account, we will
notify you and give you 30 days to increase the value of your account to $100.
SERVICES TO HELP YOU MANAGE YOUR ACCOUNT
Automatic Investment Plan
Our automatic investment plan offers a convenient way to invest in the Fund.
Under the plan, you can have money transferred automatically from your checking
account to the Fund each month to buy additional shares. If you are interested
in this program, please refer to account application included with this
prospectus or contact your investment representative. The market value of the
Fund's shares may fluctuate and a systematic investment plan such as this will
not assure a profit or protect against a loss. You may discontinue the program
at any time by notifying Investor Services by mail or phone.
Systematic Withdrawal Plan
Our systematic withdrawal plan allows you to sell your shares and receive
regular payments from your account on a monthly, quarterly, semiannual or annual
basis. The value of your account must be at least $5,000 and the minimum
payment amount for each withdrawal must be at least $50. For retirement plans
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
34
subject to mandatory distribution requirements, the $50 minimum will not apply.
If you would like to establish a systematic withdrawal plan, please complete the
systematic withdrawal plan section of the shareholder application included with
this prospectus and indicate how you would like to receive your payments. You
may choose to direct your payments to buy the same class of shares of another
Franklin Templeton Fund or have the money sent directly to you, to another
person, or to a checking account.
You will generally receive your payment by the last business day of the month in
which a payment is scheduled. When you sell your shares under a systematic
withdrawal plan, it is a taxable transaction.
Because of the Fund's front-end sales charge, you may not want to set up a
systematic withdrawal plan if you plan to buy shares on a regular basis. Shares
sold under the plan may also be subject to a Contingent Deferred Sales Charge.
Please see "Contingent Deferred Sales Charge" under "How Do I Sell Shares?"
You may discontinue a systematic withdrawal plan, change the amount and
schedule of withdrawal payments, or suspend one payment by notifying us in
writing at least seven business days before the end of the month preceding a
scheduled payment. Please see "How Do I Buy, Sell and Exchange Shares? -
Systematic Withdrawal Plan" in the SAI for more information.
TeleFACTS(R)
From a touch-tone phone, you may call our TeleFACTS system (day or night) at
1-800/247-1753 to:
- - obtain information about your account;
- - obtain price and performance information about any Franklin Templeton Fund;
- - exchange shares between identically registered Franklin accounts; and
- - request duplicate statements and deposit slips for Franklin accounts.
You will need the Fund's code number to use TeleFACTS. The Fund's code is 417.
Statements and Reports to Shareholders
We will send you the following statements and reports on a regular basis:
- - Confirmation and account statements reflecting transactions in your account,
including additional purchases and dividend reinvestments. PLEASE VERIFY THE
ACCURACY OF YOUR STATEMENTS WHEN YOU RECEIVE THEM.
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
35
- - Financial reports of the Fund will be sent every six months. To reduce Fund
expenses, we attempt to identify related shareholders within a household and
send only one copy of a report. Call Fund Information if you would like an
additional free copy of the Fund's financial reports or an interim quarterly
report.
Institutional Accounts
Additional methods of buying, selling or exchanging shares of the Fund may be
available to institutional accounts. For further information, call Institutional
Services.
Availability of These Services
The services above are available to most shareholders. If, however, your shares
are held by a financial institution, in a street name account, or networked
through the NSCC, the Fund may not be able to offer these services directly to
you. Please contact your investment representative.
What If I Have Questions About My Account?
If you have any questions about your account, you may write to Investor
Services, P.O. Box 33030, St. Petersburg, FL 33733-8030. The Fund and
Distributors are also located at this address. You may also contact us by phone
at one of the numbers listed below.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
HOURS OF OPERATION (EASTERN
TIME)
DEPARTMENT NAME TELEPHONE NO. (MONDAY THROUGH FRIDAY)
<S> <C> <C>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------
Shareholder Services 1-800/632-2301 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Dealer Services 1-800/524-4040 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Fund Information 1-800/DIAL BEN 8:30 a.m. to 11:00 p.m.
5:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
(1-800/342-5236) (Saturday)
Retirement Plans 1-800/527-2020 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Institutional Services 1-800/321-8563 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
TDD (hearing impaired) 1-800/851-0637 8:30 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
</TABLE>
Your phone call may be monitored or recorded to ensure we provide you with high
quality service. You will hear a regular beeping tone if your call is being
recorded.
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
36
GLOSSARY
USEFUL TERMS AND DEFINITIONS
1933 Act - Securities Act of 1933, as amended.
1940 Act - Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
Board - The Board of the Fund.
Business Manager - Templeton Global Investors, Inc.
CD - Certificate of deposit.
Class I and Class II - Certain funds in the Franklin Templeton Funds offer two
classes of shares, designated "Class I" and "Class II." The two classes have
proportionate interests in the same portfolio of investment securities. They
differ, however, primarily in their sales charge structures and Rule 12b-1
plans. Because the Fund's sales charge structure and Rule 12b-1 plan are
similar to those of Class I shares, shares of the Fund are considered Class I
shares for redemption, exchange and other purposes.
Code - Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended.
Contingency Period - The 12 month period during which a Contingent Deferred
Sales Charge may apply. Regardless of when during the month you purchased
shares, they will age one month on the last day of that month and each
following month.
Contingent Deferred Sales Charge (CDSC) - A sales charge of 1% that may apply
if you sell your shares within one year.
Distributors - Franklin/Templeton Distributors, Inc., the Fund's principal
underwriter. The SAI lists the officers and Board members who are affiliated
with Distributors. See "Officers and Directors."
Eligible Governmental Authority - any state or local government or any
instrumentality, department, authority or agency thereof that has determined
the Fund is a legally permissible investment and that can only buy shares of
the Fund without paying sales charges.
Franklin Funds - the mutual funds in the Franklin Group of Funds(R) except
Franklin Valuemark Funds and the Franklin Government Securities Trust.
Franklin Templeton Funds - the Franklin Funds and the Templeton Funds.
Franklin Templeton Group - Franklin Resources, Inc., a publicly owned holding
company, and its various subsidiaries.
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
37
Investment Manager - Templeton Investment Counsel, Inc., Broward Financial
Centre, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33394-3091.
Investor Services - Franklin/Templeton Investor Services, Inc., the Fund's
transfer agent and shareholder servicing agent.
IRS - Internal Revenue Service.
Letter - Letter of Intent.
Market Timer(s) - Market Timers generally include market timing or allocation
services, accounts administered so as to buy, sell or exchange shares based on
predetermined market indicators, or any person or group whose transactions seem
to follow a timing pattern.
Moody's - Moody's Investors Service, Inc.
NASD - National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
Net Asset Value (NAV) - the value of a mutual fund is determined by deducting
the fund's liabilities from the total assets of the portfolio. The net asset
value per share is determined by dividing the net asset value of the fund by
the number of shares outstanding.
NSCC - National Securities Clearing Corporation.
NYSE - New York Stock Exchange.
Offering Price - The public offering price is based on the Net Asset Value per
share and includes the front-end sales charge. The maximum front-end sales
charge is 5.75%.
Qualified Retirement Plan(s) - an employer sponsored pension or profit-sharing
plan that qualifies under section 401 of the Code. Examples include 401(k),
money purchase pension, profit sharing and defined benefit plans.
REIT - Real Estate Investment Trust.
Resources - Franklin Resources, Inc.
SAI - Statement of Additional Information.
S&P - Standard and Poor's Corporation.
SEC - U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission.
Securities Dealer - a financial institution that, either directly or through
affiliates, has an agreement with Distributors to handle customer orders and
accounts with the Fund. This reference is for convenience only and does not
indicate a legal conclusion of capacity.
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
38
SEP - an employer sponsored simplified employee pension plan established under
section 408(k) of the Code.
TeleFACTS(R) - Franklin Templeton's automated customer servicing system.
Templeton Funds - the U.S. registered mutual funds in the Templeton Group of
Funds except Templeton Capital Accumulator Fund, Inc., Templeton Variable
Annuity Fund, and Templeton Variable Products Series Fund.
Trust Company - Franklin Templeton Trust Company. Trust Company is an affiliate
of Distributors and both are wholly owned subsidiaries of Resources.
U.S. - United States.
We/Our/Us - Unless the context indicates a different meaning, these terms refer
to the Fund and/or Investor Services, Distributors, or another wholly owned
subsidiary of Resources.
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
39
INSTRUCTIONS AND IMPORTANT NOTICE
SUBSTITUTE W-9 INSTRUCTIONS INFORMATION
General. Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Rather, the tax liability
of persons subject to backup withholding will be reduced by the amount of tax
withheld. If withholding results in an overpayment of taxes, a refund may be
obtained from the IRS.
Obtaining a Number. If you do not have a Social Security Number/Taxpayer
Identification Number or you do not know your SSN/TIN, you must obtain Form
SS-5 or Form SS-4 from your local Social Security or IRS office and apply for
one. If you have checked the "Awaiting TIN" box and signed the certification,
withholding will apply to payments relating to your account unless you provide
a certified TIN within 60 days.
What SSN/TIN to Give. Please refer to the following guidelines:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
ACCOUNT TYPE GIVE SSN OF ACCOUNT TYPE GIVE EMPLOYER ID # OF
<S> <C> <C> <C>
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -Individual Individual -Trust, Estate, or Trust, Estate, or
Pension Plan Trust Pension Plan Trust
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -Joint Individual Owner who will -Corporation, Corporation,
be paying tax Partnership, or Partnership, or
or first-named other organization other organization
individual
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -Unif. Gift/ Minor -Broker nominee Broker nominee
Transfer to Minor
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -Sole Proprietor Owner of
business
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
- -Legal Guardian Ward, Minor,
or Incompetent
- -------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>
Exempt Recipients. Please provide your TIN and check the "Exempt Recipient" box
if you are an exempt recipient. Exempt recipients include:
A corporation A registered dealer in securities or
commodities registered in the U.S.
A financial institution or a U.S. possession
An organization exempt from tax under A real estate investment trust
section 501(a), or an individual
retirement plan A common trust fund operated by a bank
under section 584(a)
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
40
An exempt charitable remainder An entity registered at all times
trust or a non-exempt trust under the Investment Company Act
described in section 4947(a)(1) of 1940
IRS Penalties. If you do not supply us with your SSN/TIN, you will be subject to
an IRS $50 penalty unless your failure is due to reasonable cause and not
willful neglect. If you fail to report certain income on your federal income
tax return, you will be treated as negligent and subject to an IRS 20% penalty
on any underpayment of tax attributable to such negligence, unless there was
reasonable cause for the resulting underpayment and you acted in good faith. If
you falsify information on this form or make any other false statement
resulting in no backup withholding on an account which should be subject to
backup withholding, you may be subject to an IRS $500 penalty and certain
criminal penalties including fines and imprisonment.
SUBSTITUTE W-8 INSTRUCTIONS INFORMATION
Exempt Foreign Person. Check the "Exempt Foreign Person" box if you qualify as
a non-resident alien or foreign entity that is not subject to certain U.S.
information return reporting or to backup withholding rules. Dividends paid to
your account may be subject to withholding of up to 30%. You are an "Exempt
Foreign Person" if you are not (1) a citizen or resident of the U.S., or (2) a
U.S. corporation, partnership, estate, or trust. In the case of an individual,
an "Exempt Foreign Person" is one who has been physically present in the U.S.
for less than 31 days during the current calendar year. An individual who is
physically present in the U.S. for at least 31 days during the current calendar
year will still be treated as an "Exempt Foreign Person," provided that the
total number of days physically present in the current calendar year and the two
preceding calendar years does not exceed 183 days (counting all of the days in
the current calendar year, only one-third of the days in the first preceding
calendar year and only one-sixth of the days in the second preceding calendar
year). In addition, lawful permanent residents or green card holders may not be
treated as "Exempt Foreign Persons." If you are an individual or an entity, you
must not now be, or at this time expect to be, engaged in a U.S. trade or
business with respect to which any gain derived from transactions effected by
the Fund/Payer during the calendar year is effectively connected to the U.S.
(or your transactions are exempt from U.S. taxes under a tax treaty).
Permanent Address. The Shareholder Application must contain your permanent
address if you are an "Exempt Foreign Person." If you are an individual, provide
your permanent address. If you are a partnership or corporation, provide the
address of your principal office. If you are an estate or trust, provide the
address of your permanent residence or the principal office of any fiduciary.
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
41
Notice of Change in Status. If you become a U.S. citizen or resident after you
have provided certification of your foreign status, or if you cease to be an
"Exempt Foreign Person," you must notify the Fund/Payer within 30 days of your
change in status. Reporting will then begin on the account(s) listed, and
backup withholding may also begin unless you certify to the Fund/Payer that (1)
the taxpayer identification number you have given is correct, and (2) the
Internal Revenue Service has not notified you that you are subject to backup
withholding because you failed to report certain interest or dividend income.
You may use Form W-9, "Payer's Request for Taxpayer Identification Number and
Certification," to make these certifications. If an account is no longer active,
you do not have to notify a Fund/Payer or broker of your change in status
unless you also have another account with the same Fund/Payer that is still
active. If you receive interest from more than one Fund/Payer or have dealings
with more than one broker or barter exchange, file a certificate with each. If
you have more than one account with the same Fund/Payer, the Fund/Payer may
require you to file a separate certificate for each account.
When to File. File these certifications with the Fund before a payment is made
to you, unless you have already done this in either of the two preceding
calendar years.
How Often You Must File. This certificate generally remains in effect for three
calendar years. A Fund/Payer or broker, however, may require that a new
certificate be filed each time a payment is made. On joint accounts for which
each joint owner is a foreign person, each must provide a certification of
foreign status.
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
42
FOR CORPORATE SHAREHOLDERS--FORM OF RESOLUTION
It will be necessary for corporate shareholders to provide a certified copy of a
resolution or other certificate of authority to authorize the purchase as well
as sale (redemption) of shares and withdrawals by checks or drafts. You may use
the following form of resolution or you may prefer to use your own. It is
understood that the Fund, Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc., Franklin
Templeton Investor Services, Inc., the custodian bank and their affiliates may
rely upon these authorizations until revoked or amended by written notice
delivered by registered or certified mail to the Fund.
CERTIFIED COPY OF RESOLUTION (Corporation or Association)
The undersigned hereby certifies and affirms that he/she is the duly elected
_________________________________ of __________________________________________
Title Corporate Name
a _______________________________ organized under the laws of the State of
Type of Organization
___________________ and that the following is a true and correct copy
State
of a resolution adopted by the Board of Directors at a meeting duly called and
held on __________________________
Date
RESOLVED, that the ________________________________________________________
Officers' Titles
of this Corporation or Association are authorized to open an account in
the name of the Corporation or Association with one or more of the
Franklin Group of Funds or Templeton Family of Funds (collectively, the
"Funds") and to deposit such funds of this Corporation or Association in
this account as they deem necessary or desirable; that the persons
authorized below may endorse checks and other instruments for deposit to
said account or accounts; and
FURTHER RESOLVED, that any of the following __________ officers are
number
authorized to sign any share assignment on behalf of this Corporation or
Association and to take any other actions as may be necessary to sell or
redeem its shares in the Funds or to sign checks or drafts withdrawing
funds from the account; and
FURTHER RESOLVED, that this Corporation or Association shall hold
harmless, indemnify, and defend the Funds, their custodian bank, Franklin
Templeton Distributors, Inc., Franklin Templeton Investor Services, Inc.,
and their affiliates, from any claim, loss or liability resulting in whole
or in part, directly or indirectly, from their reliance from time to time
upon any
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
43
certifications by the secretary or any assistant secretary of this
Corporation or Association as to the names of the individuals occupying
such offices and their acting in reliance upon these resolutions until
actual receipt by them of a certified copy of a resolution of the Board of
Directors of the Corporation or Association modifying or revoking any or
all such resolutions.
The undersigned further certifies that the below named persons, whose
signatures appear opposite their names and office titles, are duly elected
officers of the Corporation or Association. (Attach additional list if
necessary.)
__________________________________ _____________________________________
name/title (please print or type) Signature
__________________________________ _____________________________________
name/title (please print or type) Signature
__________________________________ _____________________________________
name/title (please print or type) Signature
__________________________________ _____________________________________
name/title (please print or type) Signature
__________________________________ _____________________________________
Name of Corporation or Association Date
Certified from minutes ______________________________________________________
Name and Title
CORPORATE SEAL (if appropriate)
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
44
FRANKLIN TEMPLETON
TELEPHONE REDEMPTION AUTHORIZATION AGREEMENT
You may use Franklin Templeton's telephone redemption privilege to redeem
uncertificated Franklin Templeton Fund shares for up to $50,000 (or your
shareholder account balance, whichever is less) per day, per fund account in
accordance with the terms of the Funds' prospectus.
The telephone redemption privilege is available only to shareholders who
specifically request it. If you would like to add this redemption privilege to
the other telephone transaction privileges now automatically available to
Franklin Templeton Fund shareholders, please sign and return this authorization
to Franklin/Templeton Investor Services, Inc. ("Investor Services"), transfer
agent and shareholder servicing agent for the Franklin Templeton Funds.
Shareholder Authorization: I/We request the telephone redemption privilege under
the terms described below and in the prospectus for each investment company in
Franklin Templeton (a "Franklin Templeton Fund" or a "Fund"), now open or
opened at a later date, holding shares registered as follows:
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Print name(s) as shown in registration (called "Shareholder")
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Account number(s)
I/We authorize each Fund and Investor Services to honor and act upon telephone
requests, given as provided in this agreement, to redeem shares from any
Shareholder account.
- ------------------------------------- -----------------------------------------
Signature(s) of all registered owners and date
- ------------------------------------- -----------------------------------------
Printed name (and title/capacity, if applicable)
Verification Procedures: I/We understand and agree that: (1) each Fund and
Investor Services will employ reasonable procedures to confirm that redemption
instructions communicated by telephone are genuine and that if these
confirmation procedures are not followed, the Fund or Investor Services may be
liable for any losses due to unauthorized or fraudulent telephone instructions;
(2) the confirmation procedures will include the recording of telephone calls
requesting redemptions, requiring that the caller provide certain personal
and/or account information requested by the telephone service agent at the time
of the call for the purpose of establishing the caller's identification, and
the sending of confirmation statements to the address of record each time a
redemption is
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
45
initiated by telephone; and (3) as long as the Fund and Investor Services follow
the confirmation procedures in acting on instructions communicated by telephone
which were reasonably believed to be genuine at the time of receipt, neither
they nor their parent or affiliates will be liable for any loss, damages or
expenses caused by an unauthorized or fraudulent redemption request.
Jointly Owned/Co-Trustee Accounts: Each of us signing this agreement as either
joint owners or co-trustees authorize each Fund and Investor Services to honor
telephone redemption requests given by ANY ONE of the signers or our investment
representative of record, if any, ACTING ALONE.
Appointment of Attorney-in-Fact: In order to issue telephone redemption requests
acting alone, each of us individually makes the following appointment: I hereby
appoint the other joint owner(s)/co-trustee(s) as my agent(s)
(attorney[s]-in-fact) with full power and authority to individually act for me
in any lawful way with respect to the issuance of instructions to a Fund or
Investor Services in accordance with the telephone redemption privilege we have
requested by signing this agreement. This appointment shall not be affected by
my subsequent disability or incompetency and shall remain in effect until it is
revoked by either written notice from any one of us delivered to a Fund or
Investor Services by registered mail, return receipt requested, or by a Fund or
Investor Services upon receipt of any information that causes a Fund or
Investor Services to believe in good faith that there is or that there may be a
dispute among any of us with respect to the Franklin Templeton Fund account(s)
covered by this agreement. Each of us agrees to notify the Fund or Investor
Services immediately upon the death of any of the undersigned.
Corporate/Partnership/Trust/Retirement Accounts: The Shareholder and each of us
signing this agreement on behalf of the Shareholder represent and warrant to
each Franklin Templeton Fund and Investor Services that the Shareholder has the
authority to enter into this agreement and that each of us are duly authorized
to execute this agreement on behalf of the Shareholder. The Shareholder agrees
that its election of the telephone redemption privilege means that a Fund or
Investor Services may honor a telephone redemption request given by ANY officer/
partner/member/administrator or agent of Shareholder ACTING ALONE.
Restricted Accounts: Telephone redemptions and dividend option changes may not
be accepted on Franklin Templeton Trust Company retirement accounts.
PLEASE RETURN THIS FORM TO:
Franklin/Templeton Investor Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 33030
St. Petersburg, FL 33733-8030
- Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
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Franklin Templeton Japan Fund -
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FRANKLIN TEMPLETON GROUP OF FUNDS
LITERATURE REQUEST Call 1-800/DIAL BEN (1-800/342-5236) today for a free
descriptive brochure and prospectus on any of the funds listed below. The
prospectus contains more complete information, including fees, charges and
expenses, and should be read carefully before investing or sending money.
INTERNATIONAL GROWTH
Franklin Global Health Care Fund
Franklin International Equity Fund
Franklin Templeton Japan Fund
Templeton Developing Markets Trust
Templeton Foreign Fund
Templeton Global Infrastructure Fund
Templeton Global
Opportunities Trust
Templeton Global Real Estate Fund
Templeton Global Smaller
Companies Fund
Templeton Greater European Fund
Templeton Growth Fund
Templeton Latin America Fund
Templeton Pacific Growth Fund
Templeton World Fund
INTERNATIONAL GROWTH
AND INCOME
Franklin Global Utilities Fund
Franklin Templeton German
Government Bond Fund
Franklin Templeton
Global Currency Fund
Templeton Global Bond Fund
Templeton Growth and Income Fund
INTERNATIONAL INCOME
Franklin Global Government
Income Fund
Franklin Templeton Hard
Currency Fund
Franklin Templeton High
Income Currency Fund
Templeton Americas
Government Securities Fund
GROWTH
Franklin Blue Chip Fund
Franklin California Growth Fund
Franklin DynaTech Fund
Franklin Equity Fund
Franklin Gold Fund
Franklin Growth Fund
Franklin MidCap Growth Fund
Franklin Small Cap Growth Fund
GROWTH AND INCOME
Franklin Balance Sheet
Investment Fund
Franklin Convertible Securities Fund
Franklin Equity Income Fund
Franklin Income Fund
Franklin MicroCap Value Fund
Franklin Natural Resources Fund
Franklin Premier Return Fund
Franklin Real Estate Securities Fund
Franklin Rising Dividends Fund
Franklin Strategic Income Fund
Franklin Utilities Fund
Franklin Value Fund
Templeton American Trust, Inc.
INCOME
Franklin Adjustable Rate
Securities Fund
Franklin Adjustable U.S.
Government Securities Fund
Franklin AGE High Income Fund
Franklin Investment
Grade Income Fund
Franklin Short-Intermediate U.S.
Government Securities Fund
Franklin U.S. Government
Securities Fund
Franklin Money Fund
Franklin Federal Money Fund
FOR NON-U.S. INVESTORS:
Franklin Tax-Advantaged
High Yield Securities Fund
Franklin Tax-Advantaged
International Bond Fund
Franklin Tax-Advantaged U.S.
Government Securities Fund
FOR CORPORATIONS:
Franklin Corporate Qualified
Dividend Fund
FRANKLIN FUNDS SEEKING
TAX-FREE INCOME
Federal Intermediate-Term
Tax-Free Income Fund
Federal Tax-Free Income Fund
High Yield Tax-Free Income Fund
Insured Tax-Free Income Fund
Puerto Rico Tax-Free Income Fund
Tax-Exempt Money Fund
FRANKLIN STATE-SPECIFIC FUNDS
SEEKING TAX-FREE INCOME
Alabama
Arizona*
Arkansas**
California*
Colorado
Connecticut
Florida*
Georgia
Hawaii**
Indiana
Kentucky
Louisiana
Maryland
Massachusetts***
Michigan*
Minnesota***
Missouri
New Jersey
New York*
North Carolina
Ohio***
Oregon
Pennsylvania
Tennessee**
Texas
Virginia
Washington**
VARIABLE ANNUITIES
Franklin Valuemark(SM)
Franklin Templeton Valuemark
Income Plus (an immediate annuity)
*Two or more fund options available: long-term portfolio, intermediate-term
portfolio, a portfolio of insured municipal securities, and/or a high yield
portfolio (CA) and a money market portfolio (CA and NY).
**The fund may invest up to 100% of its assets in bonds that pay interest
subject to the federal alternative minimum tax.
***Portfolio of insured municipal securities.
TL417 P 08/96
TEMPLETON P.O. Box 33031
FUNDS St. Petersburg, Florida
33733-8031
1-800-393-3001
LOGO OF FRANKLIN TEMPLETON APPEARS HERE]
FRANKLIN TEMPLETON
Please do not use this form for any retirement plan for which Franklin Templeton
Trust Company serves as custodian or trustee, or for Templeton Money Fund,
Templeton Institutional Funds or Templeton Capital Accumulator Fund. Request
separate applications.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
SHAREHOLDER APPLICATION OR REVISION
[_] Please check the box if this is a revision and see Section 8
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Please check Class I or Class II, if applicable, next to your Fund selection.
Class I and Class II shares have different sales charges and operating expenses,
among other differences, as described in each Fund's prospectus.
Date __________________
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS CLASS
I II TEMPLETON I II TEMPLETON
<S> <C> <C> <C>
[_] [_]$______ AMERICAN TRUST [_] [_] ______ GLOBAL INFRASTRUCTURE FUND
[_] ______ AMERICAS GOVERNMENT SECURITIES FUND [_] [_]$______ GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES TRUST
[_] [_] ______ DEVELOPING MARKETS TRUST [_] [_] ______ GLOBAL REAL ESTATE FUND
[_] [_] ______ FOREIGN FUND [_] [_] ______ GLOBAL SMALL COMPANIES FUND
[_] [_] ______ GLOBAL BOND FUND [_] [_] ______ GROWTH AND INCOME FUND
<CAPTION>
CLASS CLASS
I II TEMPLETON I II
<S> <C> <C>
[_] $______ GROWTH FUND [_] [_] OTHER: $___________
[_] [_] ______ GROWTH AND INCOME FUND (Except for Class II Money Fund)
[_] [_] ______ JAPAN FUND _______________________________
[_] [_] ______ LATIN AMERICA FUND _______________________________
[_] [_] ______ WORLD FUND _______________________________
</TABLE>
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
1 ACCOUNT REGISTRATION (PLEASE PRINT)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[_] INDIVIDUAL OR JOINT ACCOUNT
_ _
__________________________________________________ ____________________________
First name Middle initial Last name Social Security number (SSN)
_ _
__________________________________________________ ____________________________
Joint nwner(s) (Joint ownership means "noint Social Security number (SSN)
tenants with rights of survivorship" unless
otherwise specified) All owners must sign Section 4.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[_] GIFT/TRANSFER TO A MINOR
_______________________________ As Custodian For________________________________
Name of custodian (one only) Minor's name (one only)
_ _
_____________Uniform Gifts/Transfers to Minors Act______________________________
State (minor's or custodian's state of residence) Minor's Social Security number
Please Note: Custodian's Signature, not Minor's, is required in Section 4.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
[_] TRUST, CORPORATION, PARTNERSHIP, RETIREMENT PLAN, OR OTHER ENTITY
_
__________________________________________ ___________________________________
Name Taxpayer identification number (TIN)
__________________________________________ ____________________________________
Name of beneficiary (if to be included in Date of trust dDocument (must be
the registration) completed for registration)
________________________________________________________________________________
Name of each trustee (if to be included in the registration)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
2 ADDRESS
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
_____________________________________ Daytime Telephone (___)________________
Street address (P.O. Box, acceptable Area Code
if street address is given)
_
_____________________________________ Evening Telephone (___)________________
City State Zip code Area Code
I am a citizen of: [_] U.S. or [_]______________________________
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3 INITIAL INVESTMENT ($100 minimum initial investment)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Enclosed is a check payable to the Fund indicated abover for $______________ .
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4 SIGNATURE AND TAX CERTIFICATIONS
(All registered owners must sign application)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
See "Important Notice Regarding Taxpayer IRS Certifications" in back of
prospectus. The Fund reserves the right to refuse to open an account without
either a certified Taxpayer Identification Number("TIN"), Social Security number
("SSN") or a certification of foreign status. Failure to provide tax
certifications in this section may result in backup withholding on payments
relating to your account and/or in your inability to qualify for treaty
withholding rates.
I am not subject to backup withholding because I have not been notified by the
IRS that I am subject to backup withholding as a result of a failure to report
all interest or dividends or because the IRS has notified me that I am no
longer subject to backup withholding. (If you are currently subject to backup
withholding as a result of a failure to report all interest or dividends,
please cross out the preceding statement.)
[_] The number shown above is my correct TIN or SSN, or that of the Minor
named in Section 1.
[_] AWAITING TIN. I am waiting for a number to be issued to me. I understand
that if I do not provide a TIN to the Fund within 60 days, the Fund is
required to commence 31% backup withholding until I provide a certified TIN.
[_] EXEMPT RECIPIENT. Individuals cannot be exempt. Check this box only after
reading the instructions, found in the back of the Fund's prospectus, to
see whether you qualify as an exempt recipient. (You should still provide
a TIN.)
[_] EXEMPT FOREIGN PERSON. Check this box only if the following statement
applies: "I am neither a citizen nor a resident of the United States. I
certify to the best of my knowledge and belief, I qualify as an exempt
foreign person and/or entity as described in the instructions, found in the
back of the Fund's prospectus."
Permanent address for tax purposes:
________________________________________________________________________________
Street Address City State Country Postal Code
PLEASE NOTE: The IRS only allows one TIN to be listed on an account. On joint
accounts, it is preferred that the primary account owner (or person listed first
on the account) list his/her number as requested above.
CERTIFICATION - Under the penalties of perjury, I/we certify that (1) the
information provided on this application is true, correct and complete, (2)
I/we have read the prospectus(es) for the Fund(s) in which I am/we are
investing and agree to the terms thereof, and (3) I am/we are of legal age or
an emancipated minor. I/we acknowledge that Shares of the Fund(s) are not
insured or guaranteed by any agency or institution and that an investment in the
Shares involves risks, including the possible loss of principal.
X X
- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------
Signature Signature
X X
- ---------------------------------------- ---------------------------------------
Please make a photocopy of this application for your records.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
5 BROKER/DEALER USE ONLY (PLEASE PRINT)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
-----------------------
We hereby submit this application for the purchase of Franklin Templeton
shares of the Fund indicated above in accordance with Dealer
the terms of our selling agreement with Franklin -----------------------
Templeton Distributors, Inc. ("FTD"), and with the
Prospectus for the Fund. We agree to notify FTD of any
purchases of Class I shares which may be eligible for
reduced or eliminated sales charges.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
WIRE ORDER ONLY: The attached check for $_______ should be applied against
wire order confirmation number ___________ dated___________ for
__________ shares
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------
Securities Dealer Name__________________________________________________________
Main Office Address________________ Main Office Telephone Number (___)__________
Branch #________ Representative # ________ Representative Name________
Branch Address_________________________ Branch Telephone Number (___)___________
Authorized Signature, Securities Dealer______________________ Title_____________
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
ACCEPTED: Franklin Templeton Distributors, Inc. By___________ Date______________
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Please see reverse side for shareholder account privileges.
This application must be preceded or accompanied by a prospectus for
the Fund(s) being purchased.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
6 DISTRIBUTION OPTIONS (Check one)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Check one - if no box is checked, all dividends and capital gains will be
reinvested in additional shares of the Fund.
[_] Reinvest all dividends [_] Pay all dividends in cash
and capital gains. and reinvest capital gains.
[_] Pay capital gains in cash [_] Pay all dividends and
and reinvest dividends. capital gains in cash.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7 OPTIONAL SHAREHOLDER PRIVILEGES
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
A. SPECIAL PAYMENT INSTRUCTIONS FOR DISTRIBUTIONS (Check one box)
[_] Invest Distributions, as noted in Section 6, or 1 withdrawals, as noted
in Section 7B, in another Franklin or Templeton Fund.
Restrictions may apply to purchases of shares of a different class. See
the prospectus for details.
Fund Name______________________ Existing Account Number________________
OR
[_] Send my distributions, as noted in Section 6, to the person, named below,
instead of as registered and addressed in Sections 1 and 2.
Name___________________________ Street Address____________________________
City___________________________ State____________________Zip Code_________
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
B. SYSTEMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLAN
Please withdraw from my Franklin Templeton account $_____($50 minimum)
[_]Monthly [_]Quarterly [_]Semi-Annually or [_]Annually as set forth in the
prospectus, starting in ______________(month). The net asset value of the
shares held must be at least $5,000 at the time the plan is established.
Additional restrictions may apply to Class II or other shares subject to
contingent deferred sales charge, as described in the prospectus. Send the
withdrawals to: [_]address of record OR [_]the Franklin Templeton Fund or
person specified in Section 7A - Special Payment Instructions for
Distributions.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
C. TELEPHONE TRANSACTIONS
TELEPHONE EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE: If the Fund does not receive specific
-----------------------------
instructions from the shareholder, either in writing or by telephone, the
Telephone Exchange Privilege (see the prospectus) is automatically extended
to each account. The shareholder should understand, however, that the Fund
and Franklin Templeton Investor Services, Inc. ("FTI") or Franklin Templeton
Trust Company and their agents will not be liable for any loss, injury,
damage or expense as a result of acting upon instructions communicated by
telephone reasonably believed to be genuine. The shareholder agrees to hold
the Fund and its agents harmless from any loss, claims, or liability arising
from its or their compliance with such instructions. The shareholder
understands that this option is subject to the terms and conditions set forth
in the prospectus of the fund to be acquired.
[_]No, I do NOT wish to participate in the Telephone Exchange Privilege or
authorize the Fund or its agents, including FTI or Templeton Funds Trust
Company, to act upon instructions received by telephone to exchange shares
for shares of any other account(s) within the Franklin Templeton Group of
Funds.
Telephone Redemption Privilege: This is available to shareholders who
-------------------------------
specifically request it and who complete the Franklin Templeton Telephone
Redemption Authorization Agreement in the back of the Fund's prospectus.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
D. AUTOMATIC INVESTMENT PLAN
IMPORTANT: ATTACH AN UNSIGNED, VOIDED CHECK (FOR CHECKING ACCOUNTS) OR A
SAVINGS ACCOUNT DEPOSIT SLIP HERE, AND COMPLETE THE INFORMATION BELOW. I(We)
would like to establish an Automatic Investment Plan (the "Plan") as
described in the Prospectus. I/We agree to reimburse FTI and/or FTD for any
expenses or losses that they may incur in connection with my(our) plan,
including any caused by my/our bank's failure to act in accordance with
my/our request. If my/our bank makes any erroneous payment or fails to make
a payment after shares are purchased on my/our behalf, any such purchase may
be cancelled and I/we hereby authorize redemptions and/or deductions from
my/our account for that purpose.
Debit my (circle one) savings, checking, other ________ account monthly for
$__________($25 minimum) on or about the [_]1st [_]5th [_]15th or [_]20th day
starting_______(month), to be invested in (name of
Fund)___________________Account Number (if known)_______
INSTRUCTIONS TO BANK - AUTOMATIC INVESTMENT PLAN AUTHORIZATION
To:__________________________________ ______________________________________
Name of Your Bank ABA Number
___________________________ _________________ ____________ ______________
Street Address City State Zip Code
I/We authorize you to charge my/our Checking/Savings account and to make
payment to FTD, upon instructions from FTD. I/We agree that in making payment
for such charges your rights shall be the same as if each were a charge made and
signed personally by me/us. This authority shall remain in effect until you
receive written notice from me/us changing its terms or revoking it. Until you
actually receive such notice, I/we agree that you shall be fully protected in
paying any charge under this authority. I/we further agree that if any such
charge is not made, whether with or without cause and whether intentionally or
inadvertently, you shall be under no liability whatsoever.
X_________________________________________________ ___________________________
Signature(s) EXACTLY as shown on your bank records Date
______________________________________ _______________________________________
Print Name(s) Account Number
______________________________ _________________ ____________ ______________
Your Street Address City State Zip Code
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
E. LETTER OF INTENT (LOI) -- Not Applicable to Purchases of Class II
[_]I/We agree to the terms of the LOI and provisions for reservations of
Class I shares and grant FTD the security interest set forth in the
Prospectus. Although I am/we are not obligated to do so, it is my/our
intention to invest over a 13 month period in Class I and/or Class II shares
of one or more Franklin or Templeton Funds (including all money market funds
in the Franklin Templeton Group) an aggregate amount at least equal to that
which is checked below. I understand that reduced sales charges will apply
only to purchases of Class I shares.
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
[_]$50,000-99,999 (except for Global Bond Fund [_]$100,000-249,999 [_]$250,000-499,999
[_]$500,000-999,999 [_]$1,000,0000 or more
and Americas Government Securities Fund)
</TABLE>
Purchases of Class I Shares under LOI of $1,000,000 or more are made at net
asset value and may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge as
described in the prospectus.
Purchases made within the last 90 days will be included as part of your LOI.
Please write in your account number(s)____________ ____________ ____________
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
F. CUMULATIVE QUANTITY DISCOUNT -- Not Applicable to Purchases of Class II
Class I shares may be purchased at the offering price applicable to the total
of (a) the dollar amount then being purchased plus (b) the amount equal to
the cost or current value (whichever is higher) of the combined holdings of
the purchaser, his or her spouse, and their children or grandchildren under
age 21, of Class I and/or Class II shares of funds in the Franklin Templeton
Group, as well as other holdings of Franklin Templeton Investments, as that
term is defined in the prospectus. In order for this cumulative quantity
discount to be made available, the shareholder or his or her securities
dealer must notify FTI or FTD of the total holdings in the Franklin Templeton
Group each time an order is placed. I understand that reduced sales charges
will apply only to purchases of Class I shares.
[_]I/We own shares of more than one Fund in the Franklin Templeton and qualify
for the Cumulative Quantity Discount described above and in the prospectus.
My/Our other account number(s) are ___________ ___________ _______________
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
8 ACCOUNT REVISION (If Applicable)
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
If you are using this application to revise your account registration, or wish
to have distributions sent to an address other than the address on your existing
account's registration (Section 7B), a signature guarantee is required.
Signatures of all registered owners must be guaranteed by an "eligible
guarantor institution" as defined in the "How to Sell Shares of the Fund"
section in the Fund's prospectus. A notary public is not an acceptable
guarantor.
X________________________________________ ____________________________________
Signature(s) of registered account owners Account number(s)
X________________________________________ ____________________________________
X________________________________________
X________________________________________ ____________________________________
Signature guarantee stamp
NOTE: For any change in registration, please send us any outstanding
certificates by registered mail.
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------
TLGOF APP8/96
