MASTERWORKS FUNDS INC
N-14, 1999-07-23
Previous: ANALOGY INC, 8-K, 1999-07-23
Next: BLACKROCK INVESTMENT QUALITY MUNICIPAL TRUST INC, N-14 8C, 1999-07-23



<PAGE>

________________________________________________________________________________

                    IMPORTANT NOTICE:  Please vote using the
                   Enclosed Proxy Ballot as soon as possible.

           For your convenience, you may vote by calling Shareholder
       Communications Corp. ("SCC") toll-free at 1-800-733-8481 Ext. 435
              from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Pacific time).  You may
                 also vote by faxing the front and back of your
                     Proxy Ballot to SCC at 1-800-733-1885.

                 A confirmation of your telephonic or facsimile
                           vote will be sent to you.

________________________________________________________________________________

                     BARCLAYS GLOBAL INVESTORS FUNDS, INC.
                               111 Center Street
                          Little Rock, Arkansas  72201

                                August 27,  1999

Dear Shareholder of the U.S. Treasury Allocation Fund:

          We are pleased to invite you to a Special Meeting of the Shareholders
of the U.S. Treasury Allocation Fund (the "U.S. Treasury Fund") of Barclays
Global Investors Funds, Inc. ("BGI Funds") to be held on Tuesday, September 28,
1999. The Special Meeting is being held to consider a proposal to consolidate
the U.S. Treasury Fund into the Bond Index Fund of BGI Funds. If the proposed
consolidation is approved, you will receive shares of the Bond Index Fund equal
in value to your shares of the U.S. Treasury Fund.

          The Board of Directors of BGI Funds unanimously recommends that you
vote in favor of the proposal.

          This booklet describes the proposed consolidation and the Board of
Directors' reasons for recommending approval. The booklet includes this cover
letter, a formal notice, a Combined Prospectus/Proxy Statement and several
exhibits. Please take the time to review all of the information before casting
your vote. You may attend the Special Meeting in person or you may use the
enclosed Proxy Ballot to cast your vote.

          You should weigh several considerations in particular:

 .    Reasons for the Proposed Consolidation

          The investment adviser to both the U.S. Treasury Fund and the Bond
Index Fund is Barclays Global Fund Advisors ("BGFA"). BGFA has been primarily
responsible for supervisory, overall management and reporting responsibilities,
as well as responsible for the

                                       1
<PAGE>

day-to-day portfolio management of the Funds. For various reasons that are
described further in the Combined Prospectus/Proxy Statement, BGFA has advised
the Board of Directors of BGI Funds that it does not believe that the U.S.
Treasury Fund, with only $33 million in assets as of June 30, 1999, is viable on
a long-term basis. As an alternative to liquidation, the proposed consolidation
allows shareholders to continue to benefit from BGFA's day-to-day portfolio
management services, in a similar fund with generally similar investment
objectives and policies.

 .    Important Facts About The Funds

          .    Objectives and Policies--The investment objectives and policies
               of the Funds are generally similar, although there are some
               important differences that you should consider. The principal
               similarities and differences are described in the Combined
               Prospectus/Proxy Statement that is part of this booklet.
          .    Access Arrangements--The shareholder servicing, transaction and
               other access arrangements are similar for both Funds.
          .    Share Values--The total dollar value of shares you will receive
               in the Bond Index Fund will be equal to the total dollar value of
               your shares in the U.S. Treasury Fund.

          Whether or not you attend the Special Meeting of Shareholders, you may
vote by proxy in any of three ways:

          .    By Mail--Mark, sign, date and return the enclosed Proxy Ballot in
               the enclosed postage-paid envelope;
          .    By Phone--Call SCC toll-free at 1-800-733-8481 Ext. 435 from 6:00
               a.m. to 8:00 p.m. (Pacific time); or
          .    By Fax--Mark, sign, date and fax both sides of the enclosed Proxy
               Ballot to SCC at 1-800-733-1885.

          A confirmation of your telephonic or fax vote will be sent to you.
Every vote is important to us.

          If you have any questions, please call BGI Funds at 1-888-204-3956.

                                        Very truly yours,


                                        Barclays Global Investors Funds, Inc.
                                        R. Greg Feltus
                                        President

                                       2
<PAGE>

                     BARCLAYS GLOBAL INVESTORS FUNDS, INC.
                               111 Center Street
                          Little Rock, Arkansas  72201
                           Telephone:  1-888-204-3956

                 _____________________________________________

                   NOTICE OF SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS

                         U.S. TREASURY ALLOCATION FUND

                        To Be Held on September 28, 1999

                 _____________________________________________

To the Shareholders of the U.S. Treasury Allocation Fund (the "U.S. Treasury
Fund") of Barclays Global Investors Funds, Inc. ("BGI Funds"):

          PLEASE TAKE NOTE that a SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS (the "Special
Meeting") of the U.S. Treasury Fund will be held on Tuesday, September 28, 1999,
at 11:00 a.m. (Central time) at the principal office of BGI Funds, 111 Center
Street, Little Rock, Arkansas  72201.  The Special Meeting is being called for
the following purposes:

          (1)  To approve an Agreement and Plan of Consolidation (the "Plan")
               for the U.S. Treasury Fund and the transactions contemplated
               thereby, which include (a) the transfer of all of the assets of
               the U.S. Treasury Fund to the Bond Index of BGI Funds, and the
               assumption by the Bond Index Fund of all of the liabilities of
               the U.S. Treasury Fund, in exchange for shares of the Bond Index
               Fund; and (b) the distribution to shareholders of the U.S.
               Treasury Fund of the shares of the Bond Index Fund so received.

          (2)  To transact such other business as may properly come before the
               meeting, or any adjournment(s) thereof, including any
               adjournment(s) necessary to obtain requisite quorums and/or
               approvals.

          The Board of Directors of BGI Funds has fixed the close of business on
Friday, August 13, 1999, as the record date (the "Record Date") for the
determination of Fund shareholders entitled to receive notice of and to vote at
the Special Meeting or any adjournment(s) thereof.  The Combined
Prospectus/Proxy Statement contains further information regarding the meeting
and the proposal.  Even if you do not attend the Special Meeting in person, you
may vote in any one of three ways:

          1.   Mark, sign, date and return the enclosed Proxy Ballot in the
enclosed postage-paid envelope; or

                                       1
<PAGE>

          2.   Vote by telephone by calling Shareholder Communications Corp.
("SCC")  toll-free at 1-800-733-8481 Ext. 435 from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
(Pacific time) (a confirmation of your telephonic vote will be sent to you); or

          3.   Mark, sign, date and fax the enclosed Proxy Ballot (both front
and back) to SCC at 1-800-733-1885 (a confirmation of your facsimile vote will
be sent to you).

          In order for the Plan to be approved, the holders of a majority of the
U.S. Treasury Fund's shares outstanding on the Record Date must be present in
person or by proxy.  Therefore, your proxy is very important to us.  Whether or
not you plan to attend the meeting in person, please mark, sign, date and return
the enclosed Proxy Ballot today, either in the enclosed postage-paid envelope or
by telefacsimile (front and back) at 1-800-733-1885, or by calling toll-free at
1-800-733-8481 Ext. 435.  Signed but unmarked Proxy Ballots will be counted in
determining whether a quorum is present and will be voted in favor of the
proposal.

                                        By Order of the Board of Directors



                                        Richard H. Blank, Jr.
                                        Secretary
August 27, 1999


               ______________________________________________

                       YOUR VOTE IS VERY IMPORTANT TO US
                                  REGARDLESS
                     OF THE NUMBER OF SHARES THAT YOU OWN.
                       PLEASE VOTE BY MAIL, FACSIMILE OR
                           OR TELEPHONE IMMEDIATELY.

               ______________________________________________

                                       2
<PAGE>

                      COMBINED PROSPECTUS/PROXY STATEMENT
                                August 27, 1999

                     Barclays Global Investors Funds, Inc.
                               111 Center Street
                          Little Rock, Arkansas 72201
                           Telephone:  1-888-204-3956

          This Combined Prospectus/Proxy Statement is being furnished to
shareholders of the U.S. Treasury Allocation Fund ("U.S. Treasury Fund") of
Barclays Global Investors Funds, Inc. ("BGI Funds") in connection with the
solicitation of proxies by the Board of Directors of BGI Funds, for a special
meeting of Shareholders of the U.S. Treasury Fund (the "Special Meeting") to be
held at the principal office of BGI Funds, 111 Center Street, Little Rock,
Arkansas  72201, on Tuesday, September 28, 1999 beginning at 11:00 a.m. (Central
time).  The Special Meeting has been called to consider the following proposal,
and to transact such other business as may properly come before the meeting.

     Proposal:  To approve an Agreement and Plan of Consolidation dated _______
     __, 1999 (the "Plan"), between the U.S. Treasury Fund and the Bond Index
     Fund (collectively, the "Funds") of BGI Funds.  The Plan provides for the
     transfer of the assets and liabilities of the U.S. Treasury Fund to the
     Bond Index Fund in exchange for shares of equal value of the Bond Index
     Fund (the "Consolidation").  As a result of the Consolidation, shareholders
     of the U.S. Treasury Fund will become shareholders of the Bond Index Fund.

          This Combined Prospectus/Proxy Statement, which should be retained for
future reference, sets forth concisely the information about the Bond Index Fund
that prospective investors, including shareholders of the U.S. Treasury Fund,
should know before investing.  Additional information, incorporated by reference
herein, is contained in a separate Statement of Additional Information, dated
July 1, 1999, which has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission
(the "SEC") and is available without charge by calling BGI Funds at 1-888-204-
3956.

          The Prospectus for the U.S. Treasury Fund and the Bond Index Fund is
incorporated by reference in this Combined Prospectus/Proxy Statement and
accompanies this Combined Prospectus/Proxy Statement.  The Prospectus also is
available without charge by calling BGI Funds at 1-888-204-3956.

                                       1
<PAGE>

THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION, NOR HAS THE COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY
OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL OFFENSE.

                                       2
<PAGE>

                               TABLE OF CONTENTS

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                                          PAGE
                                                                                                          ----
<S>                                                                                                       <C>
I.   THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION - Item 3..................................................................    __
 .    Overview - Item 3(b)...............................................................................    __
 .    Comparison of Fees and Expenses - Item 3(a)........................................................    __
 .    Comparison of Investment Objectives, Policies and Restrictions - Item 3(b)(1)......................    __
 .    Comparison of Risks - Item 3(b)....................................................................    __
 .    Comparison of Advisory and Other Service Arrangements and Fees - Item 3(b)(2)......................    __
 .    Comparison of Purchase and Redemption Procedures and Other Considerations -
       Items 3(b)(3) and (4)............................................................................    __
 .    Comparison of Performance - Item 3(b)..............................................................    __
 .    A Discussion of Principal Risk Factors - Item 3(c).................................................    __

II.  DESCRIPTION OF THE AGREEMENT AND PLAN
       OF CONSOLIDATION - Item 4........................................................................    __
 .    Board Consideration - Item 4(a)....................................................................    __
 .    Reasons for the Consolidation - Item 4(a)(3).......................................................    __
 .    Federal Income Tax Consequences - Item 4(a)(4).....................................................    __
 .    Capitalization  - Item (4)(b)......................................................................    __

III. INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDS - Items 5 and 6 .......................................................    __
 .    Organization of BGI Funds .........................................................................    __
 .    Substantial Shareholders ..........................................................................    __
 .    Additional Information - Items 5(e), 5(f) and 6(b)(1) .............................................    __
 .    Items 5(a) and 6(a) are incorporated by reference to each Fund's Prospectus.
 .    Item 5(a) of Form N-1A is incorporated by reference into the U.S. Treasury Fund's
       Annual Report. See Exhibit B for Bond Index Fund.
 .    Items 5(b),5(c),5(d), 6(c) and 6(d) are not applicable.

IV.  VOTING INFORMATION - Item 7 .......................................................................    __
 .    Approval and Consummation of the Proposed Transaction .............................................    __
 .    Solicitation of Proxies and Payment of Expenses ...................................................    __

V.   INTEREST OF CERTAIN PERSONS AND EXPERTS - Item 8 ..................................................   N/A

VI.  ADDITIONAL INFORMATION REQUIRED FOR REOFFERING BY PERSONS
       DEEMED TO BE UNDERWRITERS - Item 9 ..............................................................   N/A

MISCELLANEOUS ..........................................................................................    __
 .    Other Business ....................................................................................    __
 .    Future Shareholder Proposals ......................................................................    __
</TABLE>
<PAGE>

EXHIBIT A - FORM OF AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF CONSOLIDATION

EXHIBIT B - MANAGEMENT'S DISCUSSION OF BOND INDEX FUND
            PERFORMANCE

APPENDIX  - FORM OF PROXY BALLOT







<PAGE>

                     BARCLAYS GLOBAL INVESTORS FUNDS, INC.
                               111 Center Street
                         Little Rock, Arkansas  72201
               _________________________________________________

                        SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS

                         U.S. TREASURY ALLOCATION FUND

                       To Be Held on September 28, 1999

I. THE PROPOSED TRANSACTION

       Important information about the matter to be considered at the Special
Meeting of Shareholders follows. This information is qualified by reference to
the Exhibits at the end of this document.

Overview

       The Directors are seeking your approval of an Agreement and Plan of
Consolidation, which contemplates that the Bond Index Fund of BGI Funds will
acquire all of the assets of the U.S. Treasury Fund of BGI Funds and assume all
of the liabilities of the U.S. Treasury Fund in exchange for shares of the Bond
Index Fund. The shares of the Bond Index Fund received by the U.S. Treasury Fund
will then be distributed to the U.S. Treasury Fund's shareholders and the U.S.
Treasury Fund will be dissolved and liquidated.

       The Plan must be approved by a vote of a majority of the shareholders of
the U.S. Treasury Fund. The Shareholder Meeting of the U.S. Treasury Fund
shareholders is scheduled for Tuesday, September 28, 1999. The Consolidation, if
approved, is expected to occur on or about Friday, October 15, 1999. For more
information about the Plan, see "Description of the Agreement and Plan of
Consolidation."

       As a result of the Consolidation, you will receive full and fractional
shares of the Bond Index Fund equal in value to the shares of the U.S. Treasury
Fund owned by you immediately prior to the transaction. No commissions or sales
loads will be charged in connection with the Consolidation

       Shareholders of the U.S. Treasury Fund whose shares are held in a taxable
account will recognize a taxable gain or loss for federal income tax purposes.
For each such shareholder, this gain or loss will be measured by the difference
between the tax basis in the U.S. Treasury Fund shares and their net asset value
at the closing date of the Consolidation ("Closing").  Shareholders who hold
U.S. Treasury Fund shares in a tax-deferred retirement account will not
recognize a taxable gain or loss as a result of the

                                       1
<PAGE>

Consolidation. See "Federal Income Tax Consequences" for additional information.
You should separately consider any state tax consequences in consultation with
your tax advisor.

       The U.S. Treasury Fund seeks to provide a high level of long-term total
return, consisting of capital appreciation and current income, consistent with a
reasonable level of risk, before fees and expenses. It attempts to improve on
the markets' long-term risk-and-return tradeoff by shifting its investments
among markets in response to changes in the investment environment. The U.S.
Treasury Fund pursues this objective by investing all of its assets in the U.S.
Treasury Allocation Master Portfolio (the "U.S. Treasury Master Portfolio") of
Master Investment Portfolio ("MIP"), which has the same investment objective and
policies as the Fund. The U.S. Treasury Master Portfolio invests directly in a
portfolio of securities. This is sometimes called a "master-feeder structure."

       The Bond Index Fund seeks to approximate as closely as practicable,
before fees and expenses, the total rate of return of the U.S. market for issued
and outstanding U.S. government and high-grade corporate bonds as measured by
the Lehman Brothers Government/Corporate Bond Index ("LB Bond Index"). The Bond
Index Fund pursues this objective by investing all of its assets in the Bond
Index Master Portfolio of MIP, which has the same investment objective and
policies as the Bond Index Fund. The Master Portfolio invests directly in a
portfolio of securities. This is another example of a master-feeder structure.

       Although both Funds, through their respective Master Portfolios, invest
primarily in fixed-income securities, there are differences in the types of
fixed-income securities that the Funds generally purchase for investment. The
U.S. Treasury Fund has a policy of investing, under normal market condition, at
least 65% of its assets in U.S. Treasury securities such as long-term U.S.
Treasury Bonds, intermediate-term U.S. Treasury Notes and short-term U.S.
Treasury Bills. In addition, the U.S. Treasury Fund may hold money market
instruments for liquidity purposes. The Bond Index Fund invests, under normal
market conditions, at least 90% of its assets in securities representing the LB
Bond Index. The LB Bond Index is composed of approximately 6,500 debt issues of
fixed-income securities, including U.S. Government Securities and investment
grade corporate bonds, each with an issue size of at least $150 million and a
remaining time to maturity of one year or more. As a practical matter, the Bond
Index Fund cannot hold each of the 6,500 securities included in the LB Bond
Index. It can, however, substantially replicate the index's profile by holding
U.S. Government obligations and corporate bonds in a similar proportion to the
index.

       If the Consolidation is approved, the master-feeder structure of the U.S.
Treasury Fund will be dissolved. The dissolution of the master-feeder structure
does not require shareholder approval and is expected to occur shortly after the
proposed Consolidation.

       The risk factors of investing in the Bond Index Fund are generally
comparable to those of investing in the U.S. Treasury Fund. If the U.S. Treasury
Fund invested directly

                                       2
<PAGE>

in a portfolio of securities, the portfolio composition of the U.S. Treasury
Fund would be virtually identical to that of its Master Portfolio, since it is
the only feeder fund of the Master Portfolio (99.99% of all the Master
Portfolio's interests are owned by the U.S. Treasury Fund). The cost to
shareholders also would be the same, as the U.S. Treasury Fund's pro-rata share
of the Master Portfolio's fees would be equal to such costs if occurred directly
by the U.S. Treasury Fund. Consequently, the risks and expenses of investing in
the U.S. Treasury Fund would be virtually unchanged if the Fund were not part of
a master-feeder structure. For a more detailed comparison of the Funds' risks
see "Comparison of Risks."

Comparison of Fees and Expenses

       The following comparison is based on current information for the U.S.
Treasury and Bond Index Funds, restated to reflect voluntary fee waivers and
expense reimbursements that are expected to continue during the current fiscal
year. There can be no assurances that the waivers or reimbursements will
continue after the end of the current fiscal year.

                       Shareholder Transaction Expenses

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                 Pro Forma
                                            U.S. Treasury    Bond Index           (After
                                                 Fund           Fund           Consolidation)
                                                 ----           ----           --------------
<S>                                         <C>              <C>               <C>
Maximum Sales Load Imposed on Purchases
 (as a percentage of offering price)
                                                 None           None               None
</TABLE>

                        Annual Fund Operating Expenses*
                 (as a percentage of average daily net assets)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                 Pro Forma
                                             U.S. Treasury     Bond Index          (After
                                                 Fund             Fund         Consolidation)
                                                 ----             ----         --------------
<S>                                          <C>               <C>             <C>
Management Fees                                  0.30%           0.08%              0.08%
Distribution Fees                                0.00%           0.00%              0.00%
Other Expenses                                   0.40%           0.15%              0.15%
                                                 ----            ----               ----

TOTAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES                    0.70%           0.23%              0.23%
</TABLE>

_____________________________
* Information on annual Fund operating expenses reflects the combined expenses
  of the Funds and the Master Portfolios in which they invest.

       Annual Fund operating expenses for the Funds are based on amounts
incurred during the most recent fiscal year. Stephens Inc. ("Stephens") and
Barclays Global Investors, N. A. ("BGI") have agreed to assume all of the
ordinary operating expenses of

                                       3
<PAGE>

the Funds (other than investment advisory fees, portfolio transaction expenses
and administrative fees).

       Example of Expenses: The example below is intended to help you compare
       -------------------
each Fund's expenses with those of other mutual funds. Actual costs may vary.
The example illustrates the expenses you would have incurred on an initial
$10,000 investment in each of the Funds over the time periods shown. It assumes
your investment earns an annual return of 5% over the periods and that the
Funds' expenses remain constant. The 5% annual return is hypothetical. It does
not represent actual or expected performance.

The Funds do not charge sales or redemption fees. This means that your expenses
for each period would be the same whether or not you sell your shares at the end
of a period. Your actual costs may be higher or lower than this hypothetical
example.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                     1 Year          3 Years          5 Years        10 Years
                                     ------          -------          -------        --------
<S>                                  <C>             <C>              <C>            <C>
U.S. Treasury Fund                    $72              $224             $390           $871
Bond Index Fund                       $24              $ 74             $130           $293
Pro Forma                             $24              $ 74             $130           $293
</TABLE>

Comparison of Investment Objectives, Policies and Restrictions

       The investment objective, policies and strategies of the U.S. Treasury
Fund are generally similar to those of the Bond Index Fund. The investment
objective of each Fund is fundamental and may not be changed without shareholder
approval. Below is a table comparing the investment objectives and key policies
of the Funds.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Treasury Fund                           Bond Index Fund
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                          <C>
Objective:  Seeks to achieve a high level    Objective:  Seeks to approximate as closely
of long-term total return, consisting of     as practicable, before fees and expenses,
capital appreciation and current income,     the total rate of return of the U.S.
consistent with reasonable risk.             markets for issued and outstanding U.S. and
                                             high-grade corporate bonds as measured by
                                             the LB Bond Index.
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

In Pursuing its Objective:  The Fund         In Pursuing its Objective:  The Fund
allocates and reallocates its investments    invests substantially all of its assets in
among the three classes of U.S. Treasury     the LB Bond Index, which is composed of
debt securities, long-term bonds,            approximately 6,500 issues of fixed-income
intermediate-term notes and bonds and        securities, including U.S. Government
short-term bills.                            securities and investment grade corporate
                                             bonds, each with an issue size of at least
                                             $150 million and a remaining maturity of
                                             greater than one year.
- -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

                                       4
<PAGE>

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Treasury Fund                             Bond Index Fund
Key Investment Policies:                       Key Investment Policies:
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
  <S>                                          <C>
  .  The U.S. Treasury Fund invests at least   .  The Bond Index Fund invests at least 65%
     65% of its total assets in U.S. Treasury     of its total assets in bonds and debentures.
     securities, such as long-term bonds,
     intermediate-term notes and bonds and     .  Securities are selected for investment
     short-term bills.                            by the Fund based on a mix of factors, such
                                                  as the relative proportion of such
  .  The U.S. Treasury Allocation Fund uses       securities in the LB Bond Index, credit
     an investment model to determine the         quality, issue sector, maturity structure,
     investment strategy for the Fund (the        coupon rates and callability.
     "Model").
                                               .  The Bond Index Fund seeks to come within
  .  The Model concentrates its analysis on       95% of the total rate of return of the LB
     maturity classes of U.S. Treasury            Bond Index, before fees and expenses, in
     securities, combining:  (i) comprehensive    falling as well as rising markets.
     return data; (ii) statistically
     predictable variations from expected      .  BGFA, makes no attempt to apply
     returns; and (iii) information on how        economic, financial or market analysis when
     varying returns correlate.                   managing the Fund's portfolio.  BGFA
                                                  selects securities because they will help
  .  When the Model identifies potential          the Fund achieve returns corresponding to
     gains for the Fund, transaction costs        the LB Bond Index.
     help determine modifications in the
     Fund's investment allocation.  Barclays
     Global Fund Advisors ("BGFA"), the Fund's
     investment adviser, decides whether or
     not the cost of buying and selling
     securities outweighs the potential gains
     identified by the Model.
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

       Investments in either the U.S. Treasury Fund or the Bond Index Fund
discussed in this Combined Prospectus/Proxy Statement are not bank deposits or
obligations of BGI or BGFA. They are not guaranteed or endorsed by the Federal
Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency.

Comparison of Risks

Risks of investing in the Bond Index Fund

 .  value of the bonds in which the Fund invests may fall because of a rise in
   interest rates, which generally reduces the value of bonds, even those issued
   by the U.S. government
 .  value of individual bonds may fall with the decline in a borrower's real or
   apparent ability to meet its financial obligations
 .  prices of bonds may fall in response to economic events or trends

                                       5
<PAGE>

 .  bonds that the Bond Index Fund's investment adviser selects may not match the
   performance of the market index
 .  requirements for cash balances may exert a drag on overall Bond Index Fund
   performance
 .  issuer may be unable to make interest payments or repay principal on time and
   the bond could lose all of its value, or be renegotiated at a lower interest
   rate or principal amount
 .  no attempt is made to individually select bonds because the Bond Index Master
   Portfolio is managed by determining which securities are to be purchased or
   sold to maintain, to the extent feasible, a representative sample of
   securities in the LB Bond Index

Risks of investing in the U.S. Treasury Fund

 .  prices of Treasury bonds may fall in response to economic events or trends
 .  the U.S. Treasury Fund's investment allocation may not perform to
   expectations
 .  requirements for large cash balances may exert a drag on overall Fund
   performance

Comparison of Advisory and Other Service Arrangements and Fees

     The Funds have the same service providers. Upon completion of the
Consolidation, these service providers will continue to serve the Funds in the
capacities indicated below.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                U.S. Treasury and Bond Index Funds
                                ----------------------------------
        <S>                     <C>
        Investment Adviser      BGFA (to the Master Portfolio)
        Distributor             Stephens
        Co-Administrators       Stephens, BGI
        Custodian               Investors Bank & Trust Company ("IBT")
        Transfer Agent          IBT
        Independent Auditors    KPMG LLP
</TABLE>

       Investment Advisory Services. BGFA provides investment advisory services
       ----------------------------
to both Master Portfolios in which each Fund invests. The maximum advisory fee
payable by each Master Portfolio is a monthly fee at an annual rate of 0.30% and
0.08% of the U.S. Treasury and Bond Index Master Portfolios' average daily net
assets, respectively. BGFA provides investment guidance and policy direction in
connection with the management of the Master Portfolios' assets. BGFA is an
indirect subsidiary of Barclays Bank PLC and is located at 45 Fremont Street,
San Francisco, California 94105. As of December 31, 1998, BGFA and its
affiliates provided investment advisory services for approximately $615 billion
of assets.

       Administrative Services. Stephens and BGI are the co-administrators for
       -----------------------
the Funds. Stephens and BGI provide the Funds with administrative services,
including, among other things, general supervision of the Funds' non-investment
operations, preparation of proxy statements and shareholder reports and general
supervision of data completion in connection with preparing periodic reports to
the Board of Directors and

                                       6
<PAGE>

officers of BGI Funds. Stephens and BGI have agreed to assume all of the
ordinary operating expenses of the Funds (other than investment advisory fees,
portfolio transaction expenses and administrative fees). For these services and
the assumption of expenses, Stephens and BGI are entitled to a monthly fee, in
the aggregate, at the annual rate of 0.40% and 0.15% of the U.S. Treasury and
Bond Index Funds' average daily net assets, respectively.

       Distribution and Shareholder Servicing Arrangements. Shares of the Funds
       ---------------------------------------------------
are distributed by Stephens, a full service broker-dealer, pursuant to a
Distribution Agreement. For performing the services contemplated by the
Distribution Agreement, Stephens does not receive compensation so long as it is
entitled to receive compensation for providing co-administration services to the
Funds.

       The Directors of BGI Funds also have approved Shareholder Servicing Plans
for the Funds (the "Servicing Plans") pursuant to which they have entered into
Shareholder Servicing Agreements. For these services, the U.S. Treasury Fund and
Bond Index Fund may pay monthly fees equal to 0.20% and 0.07%, respectively, of
the average daily net assets of the Funds represented by shares owned during the
period for which payment is being made by investors with whom the Shareholder
Servicing Agent maintains a servicing relationship, or an amount which equals
the maximum amount payable to the Shareholder Servicing Agent under applicable
laws, regulations or rules, including the Conduct Rules of the National
Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. (the "NASD") whichever is less. Stephens
and BGI, as co-administrators, have agreed to pay these shareholder servicing
fees out of the fees each receives for co-administration services.

Comparison of Purchase and Redemption Procedures and Other Considerations

       Sales Loads: The shares of the U. S Treasury and Bond Index Funds do not
       ------------
have a sales load. There are no sales charges on reinvested distributions for
either Fund.

       Minimum Investments: Both Funds require a minimum initial investment
       -------------------
amount of $1 million from direct buyers, although the requirement may be waived
under certain circumstances. Both Funds typically waive the minimum in
connection with retirement, benefit and pension plans.

       Purchases: Both Funds' shares may be purchased by mail, by wire or by
       ----------
phone, directly from the Fund, through a brokerage account with an approved
selling or shareholder servicing agent, through certain retirement, benefit and
pension plans, or through certain packaged investment products. Both Funds
process requests at net asset value on the same day if the request is proper and
received before 1 p.m. (Pacific Time) on a business day. Shareholder servicing
agents with Approved Bank Accounts may transmit orders for Fund shares on behalf
of qualified buyers through the transfer agent.

       Redemptions: Investors may redeem their shares free of charge on any
       -----------
business day by mail or telephone.  Redemption proceeds are calculated at the
next determined net

                                       7
<PAGE>

asset value after a proper request is received, and are remitted generally
within seven days. Benefit, pension, retirement and similar plan investors
usually have separate established withdrawal procedures. Proceeds may sent by
check or credited to a designated account for certain investors.

       Exchanges: The Funds allow investors to exchange shares free of charge
       ---------
between BGI Funds. You can obtain a prospectus of the Fund for which you wish to
exchange your shares by calling BGI Funds at 1-888-204-3956. The Funds may limit
the number of times you may exchange shares if they believe doing so is in the
best interest of other Fund shareholders. They may also modify or terminate this
exchange privilege by giving 60 days' written notice.

       Dividends: Both Funds pay monthly dividends from net investment income
       ---------
and distribute capital gains, if any, at least annually. Each Fund allows
shareholders to reinvest the dividends in the Fund or receive cash payments.

       Portfolio Management: Unlike traditional actively managed investment
       --------------------
funds, there is no single portfolio manager who makes investment decisions for
the Funds. Instead, the Bond Index Fund tracks the LB Bond Index, and a team of
investment professionals evaluate recommendations made by BGFA's mathematical
models for the U.S. Treasury Fund.

Comparison of Performance

Total returns (after fees and expenses)

       The bar charts and tables in this section can help you evaluate the
potential risk and return of investing in the Bond Index Fund as compared with
investing in the U.S. Treasury Fund by showing the changes in their performance
from year to year. The bar charts show the returns for each Fund for each full
calendar year since inception. The average annual return tables compares each
Fund's average annual return with the return of a corresponding index for one
and five years, as well as since inception.

US Treasury Allocation Fund*/Bond Index Fund** Bar Chart
[bar chart]

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
      BARS               BARS                BARS                BARS                BARS
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                      <C>                 <C>                 <C>                 <C>
      1998               1997                1996                1995                1994
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

*  The U.S. Treasury Fund's year-to-date return for the quarter ending June 30,
1999 was -0.23%.
** The Bond Index Fund's year-to-date return for the quarter ending June 30,
1999 was -1.48%.

The highest quarterly return for the U.S. Treasury Fund since inception is 5.11%
(2nd Q, 1995) and the lowest is -4.63% (1st Q, 1994).

The highest quarterly return for the Bond Index Fund since inception is 6.50%
(2nd Q, 1995) and the lowest is -2.87% (1st Q, 1994).

                                       8
<PAGE>

Average Annual Returns
(as of December 31, 1998)

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                      ------------------------------------------
                                                         One         Five       Since inception
                                                         year       years       (July 2, 1993*)
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                   <C>           <C>         <C>
U.S. Treasury Allocation Fund                            6.05%      5.04%           5.51%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lehman Brothers U.S. Government/Corporate Bond           8.49%      6.45%           6.28%
   Intermediate Index*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

<TABLE>
<S>                                                   <C>           <C>         <C>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Bond Index Fund                                          9.34%      6.98%           6.77%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Lehman Brothers Government/Corporate                       9.47%    7.30%           7.19%
   Bond Index*
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

*  Calculated from June 30, 1993.

Past performance is no indication of how the Funds will perform in the future.

       Additional information regarding the performance of the Bond Index Fund
is contained in Exhibit B to this Combined Prospectus/Proxy Statement.

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
                Portfolio Diversification as of June 30, 1999:
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
U.S. Treasury Fund                                   Bond Index Fund
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S>                                                  <C>
U.S. Treasury Bonds      19%                         U.S. Treasury Bonds       16%
U.S. Treasury Notes      78%                         U.S. Treasury Notes       34%
U.S. Government Agencies  0%                         U.S. Government Agencies  14%
Corporate Bonds           0%                         Corporate Bonds           31%
Foreign Issuer Bonds      0%                         Foreign Issuer Bonds       2%
Cash                      3%                         Cash                       3%
- ------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
</TABLE>

A Discussion of Principal Risk Factors

       In addition to the general risks of investing, the Funds share several
specific risks.

Derivatives

       A derivative is a financial contract whose value depends on, or is
derived from, the value of an underlying asset such as a security or an index.
Index futures contracts are considered derivatives because they derive their
value from the prices of the indexes. The floating rate or variable rate bonds
that the Funds may purchase are also considered derivatives. Compared to
conventional securities, derivatives can be more sensitive to changes in
interest rates or to sudden fluctuations in market prices.

                                       9
<PAGE>

Year 2000 risk

       Most of the services provided to the Funds depend on the smooth
functioning of computer systems. Any failure of these systems to adapt to the
changes necessary from dates in the year 1999 to the year 2000 could hamper Fund
operations and services. The Funds' principal service providers have informed
BGFA that they are working on the changes necessary and they expect their
systems to be ready in time. But there can be no assurance of success. Moreover,
since the changes will affect virtually every organization, the companies or
entities in which the Funds invest could also be negatively affected.

Other risks

       The debt instruments in which the Funds invest are subject to credit risk
and interest rate risk. Credit risk is the risk that issuers of the debt
instruments in which the Funds invest may default on the payment of principal
and/or interest. Interest-rate risk is the risk that increases if market
interest rates may adversely affect the value of the debt instruments in which
the Funds invest. The value of the debt instruments generally changes inversely
to market interest rates. Debt securities with longer maturities, which tend to
produce higher yields, are subject to potentially greater capital appreciation
and depreciation than obligations with shorter maturities. Changes in the
financial strength of an issuer or changes in the ratings of any particular
security may also affect the value of these investments. By investing in
corporate bonds, the Bond Index Fund has greater exposure to credit risk and
interest rate risk.

       Although some of the Funds' securities are guaranteed by the U.S.
Government, its agencies or instrumentalities, such securities are subject to
interest rate risk and the market value of these securities, upon which the
Funds' daily NAV is based, will fluctuate. No assurance can be given that the
U.S. Government would provide financial support to its agencies or
instrumetalities where it is not obligated to do so.

       Market risk is the risk that the value of a bond or other security will
be reduced by market activity. By investing in corporate bonds, the Bond Index
Fund has greater market risk exposure than the U.S. Treasury Fund. Counter party
risk is the risk that the other party in a repurchase agreement or other
transaction will not fulfill its contract obligation. Both Funds invest in
repurchase agreements.

                               *    *    *    *

       Because the investment objective, policies, strategies and risks of the
Funds are generally similar, the overall level of investment risk should not
materially change as a result of the Consolidation. For a more complete
description of the Bond Index Fund's and the U.S. Treasury Fund's investment
policies and restrictions, see the Funds' Prospectus and Statement of Additional
Information.

II.  DESCRIPTION OF THE AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF CONSOLIDATION

       The Plan provides that all of the assets of the U.S. Treasury Fund as of
the Closing Date will be transferred to the Bond Index Fund, and that the Bond
Index Fund

                                       10
<PAGE>

will assume all of the liabilities of the U.S. Treasury Fund, in exchange for
shares of the Bond Index Fund. The "Closing Date" is expected to be on or about
August 10, 1999. A copy of the Plan is attached as Exhibit A to this Combined
Prospectus/Proxy Statement.

       Promptly after the Closing Date, the U.S. Treasury Fund will distribute
the shares of the Bond Index Fund received to the U.S. Treasury Fund's
shareholders of record as of the close of business on the Closing Date. The
shares of the Bond Index Fund that will be issued for distribution to the U.S.
Treasury Fund's shareholders will be equal in value to the shares of the U.S.
Treasury Fund held as of the Closing Date. BGI Funds will then take all
necessary steps to terminate the qualification, registration and classification
of the U.S. Treasury Fund. All issued and outstanding shares of the U.S.
Treasury Fund will be cancelled on the U.S. Treasury Fund's books. Shares of the
Bond Index Fund will be represented only by book entries; no share certificates
will be issued unless expressly requested in writing. Certificates are not
issued for fractional shares. All remaining organizational expenses of the U.S.
Treasury Fund will be offset against the original shares of such Fund prior to
consolidation.

       The consummation of the proposed Consolidation is subject to the
satisfaction of a number of conditions set forth in the Plan, including approval
by the shareholders of the U.S. Treasury Fund. The U.S. Treasury Fund may waive
certain conditions at any time before or after approval of the Plan by the
shareholders. The Plan also may be terminated and the Consolidation abandoned at
any time by BGI Funds if any of the conditions precedent to the Closing are not
satisfied.

       Shareholders of the U.S. Treasury Fund will have no dissenters' rights or
appraisal rights. All shareholders of the U.S. Treasury Fund as of the Closing
Date, including those that vote against the approval of the Plan and those that
do not vote, will receive shares of the Bond Index Fund if the Consolidation is
approved. All shareholders of the U.S. Treasury Fund have the right at any time
up to the business day preceding the Closing Date to redeem their shares at net
asset value according to the procedures set forth in the U.S. Treasury Fund's
Prospectus. In addition, up until the business day preceding the Closing Date,
shareholders of the U.S. Treasury Fund may exchange their shares for shares of
other funds in the BGI Funds Family of Funds, in accordance with the exchange
privilege described in the U.S. Treasury Fund's Prospectus.

       A separate Agreement and Plan of Consolidation for the corresponding
Master Portfolios of the Funds also is being proposed to consolidate the U.S.
Treasury Fund's Master Portfolio into the Master Portfolio of the Bond Index
Fund at the same time as the Fund Consolidation. The Agreement and Plan of
Consolidation for the Master Portfolios provides that all the assets and
liabilities of the U.S. Treasury Allocation Master Portfolio will be transferred
to the Bond Index Master Portfolio in exchange for shares of beneficial interest
of the Bond Index Master Portfolio.

                                       11
<PAGE>

Board Consideration

       The business and affairs of BGI Funds are managed under the direction of
its Board of Directors and the business and affairs of MIP are managed under the
direction of its Board of Trustees (collectively, the "Boards"). The Boards
unanimously voted to approve the Agreements and Plans of Consolidation at a
meeting held on April 28, 1999. In reviewing the proposed Consolidation, the
Boards considered the potential impact of the Consolidation on each Fund's
shareholders. The Boards considered, among other things: (i) the terms and
conditions of the Plan, including those intended to avoid the dilution of
shareholder interests; (ii) the potential marketing and shareholder benefits
obtained by having a combined fund; (iii) the similarity of the investment
objectives and significant policies and restrictions of the Funds; (iv) the
historical investment performance of the Funds; (v) the historical and projected
investment advisory fee rates and operating expenses of the Funds; (vi) the
identity of the organizations that provide investment advisory and certain other
services to the Funds, and the terms on which these services are provided; and
(vii) the prospects for long-term viability of the Funds.

       Based upon their evaluation of these factors, and in light of their
fiduciary duties under federal and state law, the Boards have determined that
the proposed Consolidation is in the best interests of the shareholders of the
respective Funds and that the interests of the shareholders of the respective
Funds will not be diluted as a result of the Consolidation.

       BGI Funds' Board of Directors unanimously recommends that shareholders
vote FOR the Plan of Consolidation.
     ---

Reasons for the Consolidation

       The primary reason for the proposed Consolidation is to allow U.S.
Treasury Fund investors to transfer their investment into a fund that has
greater prospects for long-term viability. As of June 30, 1999, the U.S.
Treasury Fund had only $33 million in net assets; the Bond Index Fund had
approximately $117 million in net assets. Management of BGI Funds believes that
consolidating the U.S. Treasury Fund into a fund that has generally compatible
investment objectives and policies and greater prospects for continued growth,
is a better alternative than liquidation of the U.S. Treasury Fund.

       Combining the U.S. Treasury Fund into a larger, more viable fund is
intended to provide various benefits to shareholders of the U.S. Treasury Fund.
For example, higher asset levels should benefit portfolio management by
permitting larger individual portfolio investments (in quantities that may
result in reduced transaction costs and/or more favorable pricing) and by
providing the opportunity for greater portfolio diversity.

       Currently, the fees and expenses of the Bond Index Fund are lower than
those of the U.S. Treasury Fund. Your Board of Directors believes that the
proposed Consolidation will likely benefit U.S. Treasury Fund shareholders not
only because of the lower fees and expenses, but for all of the reasons
described here. One difference is that BGI and Stephens

                                       12
<PAGE>

have agreed to assume all of the ordinary operating expenses of the U.S.
Treasury Fund (other than investment advisory fees, portfolio transaction
expenses and administrative fees), which, given the relatively small size of the
U.S. Treasury Fund, requires BGI and Stephens, in effect, to subsidize the U.S.
Treasury Fund's ongoing operations. Since the Bond Index Fund is much larger,
there is not so much of a need for BGI and Stephens to subsidize the Bond Index
Fund's ongoing operations. See "Comparison of Fees and Expenses" at page __,
above.

       In short, management of BGI Funds believes that the proposed
Consolidation should provide U.S. Treasury Fund shareholders with an investment
vehicle that has compatible investment objectives and policies and greater
prospects for long-term viability and continued growth.

Material Federal Income Tax Consequences

       The applicants intend that the Consolidation will not qualify as a
"reorganization," within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Code, and that the
U.S. Treasury Fund and the Bond Index Fund will each not be a "party to a
reorganization," within the meaning of Section 368(b) of the Code, with respect
to the Consolidation. Accordingly, the Consolidation is expected to be a taxable
event to the U.S. Treasury Fund and its shareholders with the exception of
shareholders who hold shares in a tax deferred account. Effectively, for federal
income tax purposes, the Consolidation will resemble a transaction in which a
shareholder in the U.S. Treasury Fund sold his or her shares and purchased new
shares in the Bond Index Fund.

       In anticipation of the Consolidation, the U.S. Treasury Fund expects to
sell a substantial portion of its portfolio securities prior to the Closing. The
proceeds of such sales will be held in temporary investments or reinvested in
assets that qualify to be held by the Bond Index Fund. The gain from such sales,
if any, will be distributed to the U.S. Treasury Fund's shareholders, and will
be taxable to shareholders whose shares are held in taxable (i.e., non-
retirement) accounts. In addition, shareholders of the U.S. Treasury Fund whose
shares are held in taxable accounts generally will recognize a gain or loss, for
federal income tax purposes, on the difference between the fair market value of
the Bond Index Fund shares, as of the closing, received in the Consolidation and
their federal income tax basis in their shares of the U.S. Treasury Fund. The
federal income tax basis in shares of the Bond Index Fund received in the
exchange by all U.S. Treasury Fund shareholders will be the fair market value of
those shares as of the Closing and the holding period for such shares will begin
the day following the Closing. Consummation of the Consolidation is subject to
the condition that BGI Funds receive an opinion from Morrison & Foerster LLP
substantially to the effect that the Consolidation will have the foregoing
federal income tax consequences.

       BGI Funds has not sought a and will not seek ruling from the Internal
Revenue Service ("IRS") regarding the federal income tax consequences of the
Consolidation. The opinion of counsel described above is not binding on the IRS
and does not preclude the IRS

                                       13
<PAGE>

from adopting a contrary position. Shareholders of the U.S. Treasury Fund are
urged to consult with their own tax advisors concerning the potential tax
consequences to them of the Consolidation, including foreign, state and local
income tax consequences.

Capitalization

       The following table shows the capitalization of each Fund as of June 30,
1999, and the pro forma capitalization adjusted to give effect to the
Consolidation:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                             U.S. Treasury                   Pro Forma
                                 Fund       Bond Index Fund   Combined
                                 ----       ---------------   --------
<S>                          <C>            <C>              <C>
Net assets                     $32,930,912     $117,336,319  $150,267,231
Net asset value per share      $      9.22     $       9.44  $       9.39

Shares outstanding               3,572,494       12,428,198    16,000,692
Shares authorized               ___ million     ___ million   ___ million
</TABLE>

___________________

       The Bond Index Fund's financial highlights can be found in its
Prospectus, which accompanies and is incorporated by reference into this
Combined Prospectus/Proxy Statement. The Bond Index Fund's financial statements
are incorporated by reference in the Statement of Additional Information to this
Combined Prospectus/Proxy Statement.

III.  INFORMATION ABOUT THE FUNDS

Organization of BGI Funds

       BGI Funds is registered as open-end management investment companies under
the 1940 Act. BGI Funds currently consists of 11 series of shares.

       BGI Funds is organized as a Maryland Corporation and is subject to the
provisions of its respective Articles of Incorporation and By-Laws. BGI Funds
was incorporated on October 15, 1992. Shares of each Fund have a par value of
$.001 per share. The Bond Index Fund consists of [__ million/billion shares].
Shares of each Fund are entitled to one vote for each full share held and
fractional votes for fractional shares held, and will vote in the aggregate and
not by portfolio or class except as otherwise required by law. Shares of the
Funds have no preemptive rights and have only such conversion and exchange
rights as the Board of Directors of BGI Funds may grant in its discretion. When
issued for payment as described in their respective prospectuses, each Fund's
shares are fully paid and non-assessable.

                                       14
<PAGE>

       Each share of the U.S. Treasury Fund and each share of the Bond Index
Fund represents an equal proportionate interest in the Fund with other shares of
the same class. Each share is entitled to cash dividends and distributions
earned on such shares as may be declared in the discretion of the Board of
Directors. Shares of the Bond Index Fund bear a pro rata portion of all
operating expenses paid by the Fund.

Substantial Shareholders

       As of June 30, 1999,* the shareholders identified below were known by BGI
Funds to own 5% or more of the U.S. Treasury Fund's outstanding shares in the
following capacity:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                              Percentage
             Name and Address of Shareholder               Type of Ownership                   of Fund
             -------------------------------               -----------------                   -------
<S>                                                        <C>                                <C>
Merrill Lynch Pierce Fenner & Smith                              Record                         97.49%
Qualified Retirement Plan
265 Davidson Ave., 4th Floor
Somerset, NJ  08873
</TABLE>

_____________
*As of the close of business on June 30, 1999, the officers and Directors of BGI
Funds as a group beneficially owned less than 1% of the outstanding shares of
BGI Funds.

       As of June 30, 1999,* the shareholders identified below were known by BGI
Funds to own 5% or more of the Bond Index Fund's outstanding shares in the
following capacity:

<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
                                                                                              Percentage
             Name and Address of Shareholder               Type of Ownership                   of Fund
             -------------------------------               -----------------                   -------
<S>                                                        <C>                                <C>
Merrill Lynch Pierce Fenner & Smith TTEE                         Record                         45.99%
Qualified Retirement Plan
   265 Davidson Ave., 4th Floor
Somerset, NJ  08873
State Street Bank & Trust Co. TTEE                               Record                         36.49%
FBO American Bar Association Members
State Street Collective Trust
1 Heritage Drive
North Quincy, MA  02171
Wells Fargo Bank FBO                                             Record                         11.73%
Business Retirement Programs Omnibus Act
HF HAC 9139-027
P.O. Box 9800
Calabasas, CA  91372
</TABLE>

                                       15
<PAGE>

____________
*As of the close of business on June 30, 1999, the officers and Directors of BGI
Funds as a group beneficially owned less than 1% of the outstanding shares of
BGI Funds.

Additional Information

       BGI Funds is subject to certain informational requirements of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the "1934 Act"), and the 1940 Act,
and in accordance therewith files reports, proxy materials and other information
with the SEC. Such reports, proxy materials and other information may be
inspected and copied at the public reference facilities of the SEC at 450 Fifth
Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20549. Copies of such materials can be obtained
from the Public Reference Branch, Office of Consumer Affairs and Information
Services, Securities and Exchange Commission, 450 Fifth Street, N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20549, at prescribed rates, or on the SEC's website at
www.sec.gov.

IV.  VOTING INFORMATION

Approval and Consummation of the Proposed Transaction

       Only shareholders of record at the close of business on August 13, 1999,
will be entitled to vote at the Special Meeting. On that date, [______] U.S.
Treasury Fund shares were outstanding and entitled to be voted. The date of the
first mailing of this Combined Prospectus/Proxy Statement to shareholders is
approximately August 27, 1999.

       Shareholders holding more than one-third of the outstanding shares of the
U.S. Treasury Fund at the close of business on the Record Date will be deemed
sufficient to constitute a quorum for the transaction of business at the Special
Meeting. Pursuant to Maryland law, the affirmative vote of the holders of a
majority of the outstanding voting securities of the U.S. Treasury Fund, is
required for approval of the Plan. If the U.S. Treasury Fund's shareholders do
not approve the proposed Consolidation, BGI Funds' Board of Directors will
consider what other alternatives would be in the shareholders' best interests,
including possibly, approving a Plan of Liquidation.

       Any proxy which is properly executed and received in time to be voted at
the Special Meeting will be counted in determining whether a quorum is present
and will be voted in accordance with the instructions marked thereon. In the
absence of any instructions, such proxy will be voted in favor of the Plan. Any
shareholder giving a proxy may revoke it at any time before it is exercised (i)
by submitting to BGI Funds a written notice of revocation, (ii) by submitting to
BGI Funds a subsequently executed proxy or (iii) by attending the Special
Meeting and voting in person. Abstentions and "broker non-votes" (i.e., proxies
from brokers or nominees indicating that such persons have not received
instructions from the beneficial owners or other persons entitled to vote shares
as to a particular matter with respect to which the brokers or nominees do not
have discretionary power to vote) will not be counted for or against any proxy
to which they relate, but will be counted for purposes of determining whether a
quorum is present and

                                       16
<PAGE>

will be counted as votes present at the Special Meeting. For this reason,
abstentions and broker non-votes will have the effect of a vote against the
proposal.

       The duly appointed Proxies may, in their discretion, vote upon such other
matters as properly may come before the Special Meeting or any adjournment(s)
thereof, including any proposal to adjourn a meeting at which a quorum is
present to permit the continued solicitation of proxies in favor of the
Consolidation. Any such adjournment(s) will require the affirmative vote of a
majority of the shares present in person or by proxy at the session of the
Special Meeting to be adjourned. In case any such adjournment is proposed, the
duly appointed Proxies will vote those proxies which they are entitled to vote
for the Plan in favor of adjournment, and will vote those proxies required to be
voted against the Plan against adjournment.

Solicitation of Proxies and Payment of Expenses

       It is expected that the solicitation of proxies will be primarily by
mail. Officers and agents of BGI Funds also may solicit proxies by telephone,
telegraph or personal interview. Shareholders may vote by (1) mail, by marking,
signing, dating and returning the enclosed Proxy Ballot in the enclosed postage-
paid envelope; (2) telephone, by calling Shareholder Communications Corp.
("SCC") toll-free at 1-800-733-8481, Ext. 435 from 6:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
Pacific time; or (3) telefacsimile, by marking, signing, dating and faxing the
enclosed Proxy Ballot to SCC at 1-800-733-1885. SCC has been retained by BGI
Funds to assist in both the tabulation and solicitation of proxy votes for the
Consolidation.

       The cost of soliciting proxies for the Special Meeting, consisting
principally of printing and mailing expenses, together with the costs of any
supplementary solicitation and proxy soliciting services provided by third
parties, will be borne jointly by the Funds and is estimated to be approximately
[$_________]. Proxies will be solicited in the initial, and any supplemental,
solicitation by mail and may be solicited in person, by telephone, telegraph,
telefacsimile or other electronic means by officers of BGI Funds, personnel of
BGFA or Stephens, or an agent of BGI Funds, such as SCC.

MISCELLANEOUS

Other Business

       The Board of Directors of BGI Funds knows of no other business to be
brought before the Special Meeting. However, if any other matters come before
the Special Meeting, including any proposal to adjourn the meeting to permit the
continued solicitation of proxies in favor of the Consolidation, it is their
intention that proxies which do not contain specific restrictions to the
contrary will be voted on such matters in accordance with the judgment of the
persons named in the enclosed Proxy Ballot.

Future Shareholder Proposals

                                       17
<PAGE>

       Pursuant to rules adopted by the SEC under the 1934 Act, investors may
request inclusion in the Board's proxy statement for shareholder meetings
certain proposals for action which they intend to introduce at such meeting. Any
shareholder proposals must be presented a reasonable time before the proxy
materials for the next meeting are sent to shareholders. The submission of a
proposal does not guarantee its inclusion in BGI Fund's proxy statement and is
subject to limitations under the 1934 Act. Because BGI Funds does not hold
regular meetings of shareholders, no anticipated date of the next meeting can be
provided.

                                       18
<PAGE>

                                   EXHIBIT B


     This Exhibit reproduces in its entirety the discussion of Fund performance
for shares from the Bond Index Fund's February 28, 1999, Annual Report.  The
discussion reviews some of the factors that affected the Fund's performance
during this fiscal year and shows the performance of the Fund for various
periods.  The discussion has not been updated to reflect events occurring after
February 28, 1999.

Bond Index Fund

     The BGI Funds Bond Index Fund (the "Fund") seeks to approximate as closely
as practicable before fees and expenses the total rate of return of the U.S.
markets for issued and outstanding U.S. and high-grade corporate bonds as
measured by the Lehman Brothers Government/Corporate Bond Index ("LB Bond
Index").

Performance Summary


                                                       Average Annual
PERFORMANCE AS OF 2/28/99                                Total Return
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------
                                         One Year              6.24%
                                        Five Year              6.76%
            Since Inception Date (7/2/93-2/28/99)              6.21%

Average and total return represents the Bond Index Fund's average annual
increase in value during the time periods noted above. These figures assume that
dividends and capital gain distributions have been reinvested in the Fund at net
asset value. The Fund's past performance is no guarantee of future results. The
investment return and principal value of shares of the Fund will vary with
changes in market conditions. Shares of the Fund may be worth more or less than
their original cost when they are redeemed.

A fund's "net asset value," or NAV, is the market value of one share of a fund.
The Bond Index Fund's NAV remained the same at $9.73 on February 28, 1998, and
February 28, 1999. "Net investment income" includes income from dividends and
interest on the Fund's investments after management and administrative fees have
been deducted. Cumulative dividends on net investment income were approximately
$0.60 per share during this period. Of course, past performance is no guarantee
of future results.

The Bond Index Fund tracks the Lehman Brothers Government/Corporate Bond Index.
For the fiscal year that ended February 28, 1999, the Fund returned 6.24%, while
the index returned 6.35% for the same period. The Fund's performance lagged
slightly behind the performance of the index because administrative and
management fees are deducted from the total return, and because a small
percentage of the Fund's assets are invested in low-risk, low-return money
market securities used to process transactions.

The Fund invests in the same proportions of the same securities that comprise
the index it tracks. At the close of the fiscal year, the Fund had invested 54%
of its assets in U.S. Treasury bonds, 33% in long-term corporate bonds, and 13%
in U.S. agency securities.

The bond market fluctuated dramatically during the last fiscal year due to
investors' uncertainty about the strength of the U.S. economy and the
devaluation of the Russian ruble. Economic and political turmoil in foreign
markets such as Brazil and Southeast Asia also contributed to the bond market's
volatility.

During the second quarter of the fiscal year, the Bond Index Fund returned
2.73%. When Japan's economy started to weaken and riots erupted in Indonesia,
bond investors looks to the U.S. market for safety and stability. The Bond Index
Fund benefited from having more than half of its assets in U.S. Treasury
securities, which performed better than other fixed-income securities. Although
a strong economy can lead

                                       1
<PAGE>

to increased inflation, which in turn can cause bond prices to drop, the bond
market rallied as reports showed inflation remained at historically low levels
in the U.S.

Interest rates dropped dramatically in the third quarter of the fiscal year,
partially in response to Russia's devaluation of its currency and concerns that
Brazil would default on its debt. These events created a renewed demand for
high-quality U.S. investments. Even though the U.S. economy did not appear to be
slowing down, the Federal Reserve Board reduced short-term interest rates from
5.5% to 5.25% to reassure investors that uncertainty in international markets
would not affect the U.S. economy. The bond market rallied and the Bond Index
Fund returned 5.05% for the third quarter of the fiscal year. The U.S.-
government securities and high-quality corporate bonds in which the Fund was
invested contributed to its strong performance during this period.

In the fourth quarter of the fiscal year, investors became more confident that
foreign markets were beginning to stabilize. This increased confidence lessened
the demand for safer, more secure investments, which resulted in lower returns
on bond investments. Despite the Federal Reserve Board's lowering interest rates
to 4.75%, U.S. Treasury security rates rose and the Bond Index Fund returned
only .07% for the quarter.

The first two months of 1999 resulted in negative returns for bondholders.
Inflation remained at record lows, the U.S. economy showed no signs of slowing
down after last year's foreign-market shocks, and some investors were concerned
that the Federal Reserve Board would raise interest rates in the immediate
future. The potential for interest rate hikes and the decreased demand for U.S.
Treasury market securities from international investors caused interest rates on
these securities to rise in January and February 1999. In fact, February was the
worst month for the performance of U.S. Treasury bonds since 1981. The Bond
Index Fund returned -- 1.89% for the first two months of 1999.

The accompanying chart compares the performance of the BGI Funds Bond Index Fund
shares since inception with the Lehman Brothers Government/Corporate Bond Index.
The chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 initial investment, reflects all
operating expenses. The Lehman Brothers Government/Corporate Bond Index is
composed of approximately 6,500 issues of fixed-income securities, including
U.S. Government securities and investment grade corporate bonds, each with an
outstanding market value of at least $150 million and a remaining maturity of
greater than one year. The Fund is a professionally managed mutual fund. The
index presented here does not incur expenses and is not available directly for
investment. Had this Index incurred operating expenses, its performance would
have been lower.

                          [INSERT PERFORMANCE CHART]

The Bond Index Fund is organized as a "feeder" fund in a "master-feeder"
structure. Instead of investing directly in the individual securities in the
portfolio, the feeder fund, which is offered to the public, holds interests in
the net assets of the Master Portfolio. It is the Master Portfolio that actually
invests in the individual securities. References to "the fund" are to the feeder
fund or the Master Portfolio. Barclays Global Fund Advisors (BGFA) advises the
Master Portfolio.

                                       2
<PAGE>

                                   APPENDIX

                     BARCLAYS GLOBAL INVESTORS FUNDS, INC.
                               111 CENTER STREET
                             LITTLE ROCK, AR 77201


     BY MY SIGNATURE BELOW, I APPOINT R. GREG FELTUS, RICHARD H. BLANK, JR. AND
MICHAEL W. NOLTE (OFFICERS OF BARCLAYS GLOBAL INVESTORS FUNDS, INC.), AS MY
PROXIES AND ATTORNEYS TO VOTE ALL FUND SHARES OF THE PORTFOLIO IDENTIFIED BELOW
THAT I AM ENTITLED TO VOTE AT THE SPECIAL MEETING OF SHAREHOLDERS OF BARCLAYS
GLOBAL INVESTORS FUNDS, INC. (THE "BGI FUNDS") TO BE HELD AT THE PRINCIPAL
OFFICE OF BGI FUNDS, 111 CENTER STREET, LITTLE ROCK, ARKANSAS  72201 ON TUESDAY,
SEPTEMBER 28, 1999 AT 11:00 A.M. (CENTRAL TIME), AND AT ANY ADJOURNMENTS OF THE
MEETING.  THE PROXIES SHALL HAVE ALL THE POWERS THAT I WOULD POSSESS IF PRESENT.
I HEREBY REVOKE ANY PRIOR PROXY, AND RATIFY AND CONFIRM ALL THAT THE PROXIES, OR
ANY OF THEM, MAY LAWFULLY DO.  I ACKNOWLEDGE RECEIPT OF THE NOTICE OF SPECIAL
SHAREHOLDERS MEETING AND THE COMBINED PROXY STATEMENT DATED AUGUST 27, 1999.

     THIS PROXIES SHALL VOTE MY SHARES ACCORDING TO MY INSTRUCTIONS GIVEN BELOW
WITH RESPECT TO THE PROPOSAL.  IF I DO NOT PROVIDE AN INSTRUCTION, I UNDERSTAND
THAT THE PROXIES WILL VOTE MY SHARES IN FAVOR OF THE PROPOSAL.  THE PROXIES WILL
VOTE ON ANY OTHER MATTER THAT MAY ARISE IN THE MEETING ACCORDING TO THEIR BEST
JUDGMENT.



     THIS PROXY IS SOLICITED BY THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF BGI FUNDS, WHICH
UNANIMOUSLY RECOMMEND THAT YOU VOTE IN FAVOR OF THE PROPOSAL.


PLEASE VOTE BY CHECKING THE APPROPRIATE BOX:

     1.  To consolidate the U.S. Treasury Allocation Fund of
         BGI Funds into the Bank Index Fund of BGI Funds.


         [ ]  FOR     [ ]     AGAINST    [ ]  ABSTAIN



Name of Fund_________________        ______________________________
                                         Signature of Shareholder
No. of Shares _______________
                                     ______________________________
                                         Signature of Shareholder


NOTE:    PLEASE MAKE SURE THAT YOU COMPLETE, SIGN AND DATE YOUR PROXY CARD.
PLEASE SIGN EXACTLY AS YOUR NAME(S) APPEAR ON YOUR ACCOUNT.  WHEN SIGNING AS A
FIDUCIARY, PLEASE GIVE YOUR FULL TITLE AS SUCH.  EACH JOINT OWNER SHOULD SIGN
PERSONALLY.  CORPORATE PROXIES SHOULD BE SIGNED IN FULL CORPORATE NAME BY AN
AUTHORIZED OFFICER.

                                       1
<PAGE>

FOR YOUR CONVENIENCE, YOU MAY VOTE BY ENCLOSING THE PROXY BALLOT IN THE ENCLOSED
POSTAGE PAID ENVELOPE, OR BY FAXING IT TO SHAREHOLDER COMMUNICATIONS CORP.
("SCC") AT 1-800-733-1885.  YOU ALSO MAY VOTE BY CALLING SCC AT 1-800-733-8481
EXT. 435 TOLL-FREE FROM 6:00 A.M. TO 8:00 P.M. (PACIFIC TIME).  A CONFIRMATION
OF YOUR TELEPHONE OR FAXED VOTE WILL BE MAILED TO YOU.

<PAGE>

                                    FORM OF
                                 AGREEMENT AND
                             PLAN OF CONSOLIDATION


                                    FOR THE

                         U.S. TREASURY ALLOCATION FUND

                                    AND THE

                                BOND INDEX FUND

                                      OF

                     BARCLAYS GLOBAL INVESTORS FUNDS, INC.


                               [         ], 1999
<PAGE>

          This AGREEMENT AND PLAN OF CONSOLIDATION (the "Plan") is made as of
                                                         ----
this [___] day of [_______], 1999 by Barclays Global Investors Funds, Inc.

("BGIF"), a Maryland corporation, for itself and on behalf of the U.S. Treasury
- ------
Allocation Fund ("Treasury Fund") and the Bond Index Fund (together, the
                  -------------
"Funds"), each a portfolio of BGIF.
 -----

          WHEREAS, BGIF is an open-end management investment companies
registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") under the
                                                             ---
Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"); and
                                                 --------

          WHEREAS, the Treasury Fund pursues its investment objective by
investing substantially all of its assets in the U.S. Treasury Master Portfolio
of Master Investment Portfolio ("MIP") and the Bond Index Fund pursues its
                                 ---
investment objectively investing substantially all of its assets in the Bond
Index Master Portfolio of MIP; and

          WHEREAS, BGIF desires that the assets and liabilities of the Treasury
Fund as stated herein, be conveyed to and be acquired and assumed by, the Bond
Index Fund, in exchange for shares of equal value of the Bond Index Fund which
shall thereafter promptly be distributed to the shareholders of the Treasury
Fund in connection with its liquidation as described in this Plan (the
"Consolidation"); and
- --------------

          WHEREAS, the parties intend that the Consolidation does not qualify as
a "reorganization," within the meaning of Section 368(a) of the Internal Revenue
Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), and the Funds will each not be a "party
                               ----
to a reorganization," within the meaning of Section 368(b) of the Code, with
respect to the Consolidation.

          NOW, THEREFORE, in accordance with the terms and conditions described
herein, the Funds shall be consolidated as follows:

          1.   Conveyance of Assets of Treasury Fund.
               -------------------------------------

          (a) At the Effective Time of the Consolidation, as defined in Section
7, all assets of every kind, and all interests, rights, privileges and powers of
the Treasury Fund, subject to all liabilities of such Fund, whether accrued,
absolute, contingent or otherwise existing as of the Effective Time of the
Consolidation, shall be transferred and conveyed by the Treasury Fund to the
Bond Index Fund (as set forth below) and shall be accepted and assumed by the
Bond Index Fund as more particularly set forth in this Plan, such that at and
after the Effective Time of the Consolidation:  (i) all assets of the Treasury
Fund shall become and be the assets of the Bond Index Fund; and (ii) all
liabilities of the Treasury Fund shall attach to the Bond Index Fund as
aforesaid and may thenceforth be enforced against the Bond Index Fund to the
same extent as if incurred by it.

                                       1
<PAGE>

          (b) At least fifteen (15) business days prior to the Effective Time of
the Consolidation, the Treasury Fund shall provide the Bond Index Fund with a
schedule of its securities and other assets and its known liabilities (the
"Asset List").  The Bond Index Fund will simultaneously provide the Treasury
- -----------
Fund with a copy of the current investment objective and policies applicable to
the Bond Index Fund.  The Treasury Fund reserves the right to sell any of the
securities or other assets shown on the list Assets List of the Treasury Fund
prior to the Effective Time of the Consolidation but will not, without the prior
approval of the Bond Index Fund, acquire any additional securities other than
securities which the Bond Index Fund is permitted to purchase in accordance with
its stated investment objective and policies.  At least ten (10) business days
prior to the Effective Time of the Consolidation, the Bond Index Fund will
advise the Treasury Fund of any investments of the Treasury Fund shown on the
Assets List which the Bond Index Fund would not be permitted to hold, pursuant
to its stated investment objective and policies or otherwise.  In the event that
the Treasury Fund holds any investments that the Bond Index Fund would not be
permitted to hold under its stated investment objective or policies, the
Treasury Fund, if requested by the Bond Index Fund, will dispose of such
securities prior to the Effective Time of the Consolidation to the extent
practicable.  In addition, if it is determined that the portfolios of the
Treasury Fund and the Bond Index Fund, when aggregated, would contain
investments exceeding certain percentage limitations to which the Bond Index
Fund is or will be subject with respect to such investments, the Treasury Fund,
if requested by the Bond Index Fund, will dispose of and/or reinvest a
sufficient amount of such investments as may be necessary to avoid violating
such limitations as of the Effective Time of the Consolidation.

          (c) The Treasury Fund will endeavor to discharge all of its known
liabilities and obligations prior to the targeted closing date of the
Consolidation, on or about [__________] (the "Closing Date").
                                              ------------

          (d) Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, it is understood
that the Treasury Fund assets shall include all property and assets of any
nature whatsoever, including, without limitation, all cash, cash equivalents,
securities, claims (whether absolute or contingent, known or unknown, accrued or
unaccrued) and receivables (including dividend and interest receivables) owned
by the Treasury Fund, and any deferred or prepaid expenses shown as an asset on
the Treasury Fund's books, at the Effective Time of the Consolidation, and all
goodwill, all other intangible property and all books and records belonging to
the Treasury Fund.

          (e) The Treasury Fund assets shall be transferred and conveyed to the
Bond Index Fund, as set forth below:

              (1) In exchange for the transfer of the Treasury Fund assets, the
     Bond Index Fund shall simultaneously issue to the Treasury Fund at the
     Effective Time of the Consolidation full and fractional shares of Common
     Stock in the Bond Index Fund having an aggregate net asset value equal to
     the net value of the Treasury Fund assets so conveyed, all

                                       2
<PAGE>

     determined and adjusted as provided in this Section 1. In
     particular, the Bond Index Fund shall deliver to the Treasury
     Fund the number of shares, including fractional shares,
     determined by dividing the value of the assets of the Treasury
     Fund that are so conveyed and are attributable to the Bond Index
     Fund's shares, computed in the manner and as of the time and date
     set forth in this Section, by the net asset value of one Bond
     Index Fund share that is to be delivered with respect thereto,
     computed in the manner and as of the time and date set forth in
     this Section.

              (2) The net asset value of shares to be delivered by the
     Bond Index Fund, and the net value of the Treasury Fund assets to
     be conveyed by the Treasury Fund, shall, in each case, be
     determined as of the Valuation Time specified in Section 3. The
     net asset value of shares of the Bond Index Funds shall be
     computed in the manner set forth in the Bond Index Fund's then
     current prospectus under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended
     (the "1933 Act"). In determining the value of the securities the
          ---------
     Treasury Fund to the Bond Index Fund, transferred by each
     security shall be priced in accordance with the pricing policies
     and procedures of the Bond Index Fund as described in its then
     current prospectus.

          2.  Liquidation of Treasury Fund.  At the Effective Time of the
              ----------------------------
Consolidation, the Treasury Fund shall make a liquidating distribution to its
shareholders as follows.  Shareholders of record of the Treasury Fund shall be
credited with full and fractional shares of common stock that is issued by the
Bond Index Fund in connection with the Consolidation with respect to the shares
that are held of record by the shareholder.  In addition, each shareholder of
record of the Treasury Fund shall have the right to receive any unpaid dividends
or other distributions which were declared before the Effective Time of the
Consolidation with respect to the shares of the Treasury Fund that are held by
the shareholder at the Effective Time of the Consolidation.  BGIF shall record
on its books the ownership of the respective Bond Index Fund shares by the
shareholders of record of the Treasury Fund (the "Transferor Record Holders").
                                                  -------------------------
All of the issued and outstanding shares of the Treasury Fund at the Effective
Time of the Consolidation shall be redeemed and canceled on the books of BGIF at
such time.  After the Effective Time of the Consolidation, BGIF shall wind up
the affairs of the Treasury Fund and shall file any final regulatory reports,
including but not limited to any Form N-SAR and Rule 24f-2 filings with respect
to the Treasury Fund, and also shall take all other steps as are necessary and
proper to effect the termination or declassification of the Treasury Fund in
accordance with the laws of the State of Maryland and other applicable
requirements.

          3.  Valuation Time.  The Valuation Time for the Treasury Fund and the
              --------------
Bond Index Fund shall be a mutually agreed upon time on [___________], or such
earlier or later date as may be determined by BGIF's duly authorized officers.

                                       3
<PAGE>

          4.  Certain Representations, Warranties and Agreements of BGIF.  BGIF,
              ----------------------------------------------------------
for itself and, where appropriate, on behalf of the Funds, represents and
warrants to the following, such representations, warranties and agreements being
made on behalf of each Fund on a several (and not joint, or joint and several)
basis:

              (a)     BGIF is a Maryland corporation duly created pursuant to
                      its Articles of Incorporation for the purpose of acting as
                      a management investment company under the 1940 Act, and is
                      validly existing under the laws of the State of Maryland.
                      BGIF is registered as an open-end management investment
                      company under the 1940 Act and its registration with the
                      SEC as an investment company is in full force and effect.

              (b)     BGIF has the power to own all of its properties and assets
                      and to consummate the transactions contemplated herein,
                      and has all necessary federal, state and local
                      authorizations to carry on its business as now being
                      conducted and to consummate the transactions contemplated
                      by this Plan.

              (c)     The execution and delivery of the Plan have been duly
                      authorized by the Board of Directors of BGIF, and executed
                      and delivered by the duly authorized officers of BGIF, and
                      represents a valid and binding contract, enforceable in
                      accordance with its terms, subject as to enforcement to
                      bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, arrangement,
                      moratorium and other similar laws of general applicability
                      relating to or affecting creditors' rights and to general
                      equity principles. The execution and delivery of this Plan
                      does not, and the consummation of the transactions
                      contemplated by this Plan will not, violate BGIF'S
                      Restated Articles of Incorporation or By-Laws or any
                      material agreement, obligation, decree or arrangement to
                      which it is a party or by which it is bound. No other
                      action by BGIF is necessary to authorize its officers to
                      effectuate this Plan and the transactions contemplated
                      herein.

              (d)     BGIF has qualified, and will continue to qualify, as a
                      regulated investment company under Part I of Subchapter M
                      of the Code, and with respect to the Funds as operating
                      prior to the Effective Time of the Consolidation, has
                      elected to qualify and has qualified as a regulated
                      investment company under Part I of Subchapter M of
                      Subtitle A, Chapter 1, of the Code, as of and since its
                      first taxable year; has been a regulated investment
                      company under such Part of the Code at all times since the
                      end of its

                                       4
<PAGE>

                      first taxable year when it so qualified; and qualifies and
                      shall continue to qualify as a regulated investment
                      company for its current taxable year.

              (e)     BGIF has valued, and will continue to value, its portfolio
                      securities and other assets in accordance with applicable
                      legal requirements.

              (f)     The N-14 Registration Statement and the Consolidation
                      Proxy Materials, from their effective and clearance dates
                      with the SEC, through the time of the shareholders meeting
                      referred to in Section 7 and at the Effective Time of the
                      Consolidation, insofar as they relate to BGIF (i) shall
                      comply in all material respects with the provisions of the
                      1933 Act, the Exchange Act of 1934 and the 1940 Act, the
                      rules and regulations thereunder, and state securities
                      laws, and (ii) shall not contain any untrue statement of a
                      material fact or omit to state a material fact required to
                      be stated therein or necessary to make the statements made
                      therein not misleading.

              (g)     The shares of the Bond Index Fund to be issued and
                      delivered to the Treasury Fund for the account of the
                      shareholders of the Treasury Fund, pursuant to the terms
                      hereof, shall have been duly authorized as of the
                      Effective Time of the Consolidation and, when so issued
                      and delivered, shall be duly and validly issued, fully
                      paid and non-assessable, and no shareholder of the Bond
                      Index Fund shall have any preemptive right of subscription
                      or purchase in respect thereto.

              (h)     All of the issued and outstanding shares of the Bond Index
                      Fund have been validly issued and are fully paid and non-
                      assessable, and were offered for sale and sold in
                      conformity with the registration requirements of all
                      applicable federal and state securities laws.

              (i)     BGIF shall operate its business in the ordinary course
                      between the date hereof and the Effective Time of the
                      Consolidation. It is understood that such ordinary course
                      of business will include the declaration and payment of
                      customary dividends and distributions and any other
                      dividends and distributions deemed advisable.

                                       5
<PAGE>

              (j)     At the Effective Time of the Consolidation, the Treasury
                      Fund will have good and marketable title to its assets and
                      full right, power and authority to assign, deliver and
                      otherwise transfer such assets.

          5.  Shareholder Action.  As soon as practicable after the effective
              ------------------
date of the N-14 Registration Statement and SEC clearance of the proxy
solicitation materials referred to in Section 7, but in any event prior to the
Effective Time of the Consolidation and as a condition thereto, the Board of
Directors of BGIF shall call, and BGIF shall hold, meeting(s) of the
shareholders of the Treasury Fund for the purpose of considering and voting
upon:

              (a)     approval of this Plan and the transactions contemplated
                      hereby; and

              (b)     such other matters as may be determined by the Board of
                      Directors of BGIF.

          6.  Regulatory Filings.  BGIF shall file a post-effective amendment
              ------------------
(the "N-1A Post-Effective Amendment") to its registration statement on Form N-1A
      -----------------------------
(File Nos. 33-54126; 811-7332) with the SEC, and the appropriate state
securities commissions, as promptly as practicable so that the shares of the
Bond Index Fund required to complete the Consolidation are registered under the
1933 Act, 1940 Act and applicable state securities laws.  In addition, BGIF
shall file an N-14 Registration Statement, which shall include the Consolidation
Proxy Materials, with the SEC, and with the appropriate state securities
commissions, in connection with the Treasury Fund shareholder approval
referenced in Section 5 as promptly as practicable.

          7.  Effective Time of the Consolidation.  Delivery of the Treasury
              -----------------------------------
Fund assets and the shares of the Bond Index Fund to be issued pursuant to
Section 1 and the liquidation of the Treasury Fund pursuant to Section 2 shall
occur on the day following the Valuation Time, whether or not such day is a
business day, or on such other date, and at such place and time and date, as may
be agreed to by each of the parties.  The date and time at which such actions
are taken are referred to herein as the "Effective Time of the Consolidation."
                                         -----------------------------------
To the extent any Treasury Fund assets are, for any reason, not transferred at
the Effective Time of the Consolidation, BGIF shall cause such Treasury Fund
assets to be transferred in accordance with this Plan at the earliest
practicable date thereafter.

          8.  Conditions to BGIF's Obligations.  The obligations of BGIF
              --------------------------------
hereunder shall be subject to the following conditions precedent:

              (a)     BGIF shall have received a certificate executed in its
                      name by its President or Vice President and its Treasurer
                      or Assistant Treasurer, dated as of the Effective Time of
                      the

                                       6
<PAGE>

                      Consolidation, to the effect that its representations
                      and warranties made in this Plan are true and correct at
                      and as of the Effective Time of the Consolidation, except
                      as they may be affected by the transactions contemplated
                      by this Plan.

              (b)     BGIF shall have received an opinion of Morrison & Foerster
                      LLP, counsel to BGIF, in form reasonably satisfactory to
                      BGIF and dated the Effective Time of the Consolidation,
                      substantially to the effect that (i) BGIF is a Maryland
                      corporation duly established and validly existing under
                      the laws of the State of Maryland; (ii) this Plan has been
                      duly authorized, executed and delivered by BGIF; (iii) the
                      execution and delivery of this Plan did not, and the
                      consummation of the transactions contemplated by this Plan
                      will not, violate the Restated Articles of Incorporation
                      or By-Laws of BGIF or any material contract known to such
                      counsel to which BGIF is a party or by which it is bound.
                      Such opinion may rely on the opinion of other counsel to
                      the extent set forth in such opinion, provided such other
                      counsel is reasonably acceptable to BGIF; (iv) the shares
                      of the Bond Index Fund to be delivered to the Treasury
                      Fund as provided for by this Plan are duly authorized and
                      upon delivery will be validly issued, fully paid and non-
                      assessible by BGIF; and (v) no consent, approval,
                      authorization, or order of any court or governmental
                      authority is required for the consummation by BGIF of the
                      transaction contemplated by this Plan, except such as have
                      been obtained under the 1933 Act, the 1934 Act, the 1940
                      Act, the rules and regulations under those Acts and such
                      as may be required by state securities laws or such as may
                      be required subsequent to the Effective Time of the
                      Consolidation. Such opinion may rely on the opinion of
                      other counsel to the extent set forth in such opinion,
                      provided such other counsel is reasonably acceptable to
                      BGIF.

              (c)     The Treasury Fund assets to be transferred to the Bond
                      Index Fund under this Plan shall include no assets which
                      the Bond Index Fund may not properly acquire pursuant to
                      its investment limitations or objectives or may not
                      otherwise lawfully acquire.

              (d)     The Board of Directors of BGIF, including a majority of
                      the "non-interested" Directors shall have determined that

                                       7
<PAGE>

                      the Consolidation is in the best interest of each Fund and
                      that the shares of existing shareholders of each Fund
                      would not be diluted as a result of the Consolidation.

              (e)     The N-1A Post-Effective Amendment and the N-14
                      Registration Statement shall have become effective under
                      the 1933 Act and no stop order suspending such
                      effectiveness shall have been instituted or, to the
                      knowledge of BGIF, contemplated by the SEC and the parties
                      shall have received all permits and other authorizations
                      necessary under state securities laws to consummate the
                      transactions contemplated by this Plan.

              (f)     No action, suit or other proceeding shall be threatened or
                      pending before any court or governmental agency in which
                      it is sought to restrain or prohibit or obtain damages or
                      other relief in connection with this Plan or the
                      transactions contemplated herein.

              (g)     Prior to the Valuation Time, the Treasury Fund shall have
                      declared a dividend or dividends, with a record date and
                      ex-dividend date prior to the Valuation Time, which,
                      together with all previous dividends, shall have the
                      effect of distributing to its shareholders all of its net
                      investment company taxable income, if any, for the taxable
                      periods or years ending [_____________] and for the
                      taxable periods from said date to and including the
                      Effective Time of the Consolidation (computed without
                      regard to any deduction for dividends paid), and all of
                      its net capital gain, if any, realized in taxable periods
                      or years ending [____________], and in the taxable periods
                      from said date to and including the Effective Time of the
                      Consolidation.

              (h)     BGIF shall have performed and complied in all material
                      respects with each of its agreements and covenants
                      required by this Plan to be performed or complied with by
                      it prior to or at the Valuation Time and the Effective
                      Time of the Consolidation.

              (i)     BGIF shall have received a letter from KPMG LLP addressed
                      to BGIF and MIP in a form reasonably satisfactory to them,
                      and dated the Effective Time of the Consolidation, to the
                      effect that on the basis of limited procedures agreed to
                      by BGIF and described in such letter (but not an
                      examination in accordance with generally

                                       8
<PAGE>

                      accepted auditing standards): (i) the data used in the pro
                      forma adjustment and calculation of the current and pro
                      forma expense ratios of the Funds appearing in the N-14
                      Registration Statement and Consolidation Proxy Materials
                      agree with underlying accounting records of the BGIF Fund
                      or to written estimates provided by officers of BGIF
                      having responsibility for financial and reporting matters
                      and were found to be mathematically correct, and (ii) the
                      calculation of the net value of the Treasury Fund assets
                      and the net asset value of the Bond Index Fund shares, in
                      each case as of the Valuation Time, was determined in
                      accordance with the pricing policies and procedures of
                      BGIF as described in its then current prospectus.

          9.   Further Assurances.  Subject to the terms and conditions herein
               ------------------
provided, BGIF shall use its best efforts to take, or cause to be taken, such
action, to execute and deliver, or cause to be executed and delivered, such
additional documents and instruments and to do, or cause to be done, all things
necessary, proper or advisable under the provisions of this Plan and under
applicable law to consummate and make effective the transactions contemplated by
this Plan, including without limitation, delivering and/or causing to be
delivered each of the items required under this Plan as a condition to such
obligations hereunder.

          10.  Survival of Representations and Warranties.  The representations
               ------------------------------------------
and warranties of BGIF set forth in this Plan shall survive the delivery of the
Treasury Fund assets to the Bond Index Fund and the issuance of the shares of
the Bond Index Fund at the Effective Time of the Consolidation.

          11.  Termination of Plan.  This Plan may be terminated by BGIF at, or
               -------------------
at any time prior to, the Effective Time of the Consolidation, by a majority
vote of its Board of Directors/Trustees if the conditions set forth in Section 9
are not satisfied as specified in said section.

          12.  Governing Law.  This Plan and the transactions contemplated
               -------------
hereby shall be governed, construed and enforced in accordance with the laws of
the State of Maryland.

          13.  Brokerage Fees and Expenses
               ---------------------------

          (a) BGIF, for itself and on behalf of the Funds, represents and
warrants that there are no brokers or finders entitled to receive any payments
in connection with the transactions provided for herein.

          (b) Except as may be otherwise provided herein, the Treasury Fund
shall be liable for its expenses incurred in connection with entering into and
carrying out the

                                       9
<PAGE>

provisions of this Plan, whether or not the transactions contemplated hereby are
consummated. The expenses payable by the Treasury Fund hereunder are not limited
to, but shall include (i) fees and expenses of its counsel and independent
auditors incurred in connection with the Consolidation; (ii) expenses associated
with printing and mailing the Prospectus/Proxy Statement and soliciting proxies
in connection with the meeting of shareholders of the Treasury Fund; (iii) all
fees and expenses related to the liquidation of the Treasury Fund; (iv) fees and
expenses of the Treasury Fund's custodian and transfer agent(s) incurred in
connection with the Consolidation; and (v) any special pricing fees associated
with the valuation of the Treasury Fund's portfolio on the Applicable Valuation
Date. The expenses payable by the Bond Index Fund hereunder shall include (i)
fees and expenses of its counsel and independent auditors incurred in connection
with the Consolidation; (ii) expenses associated with preparing this Agreement
and preparing and filing the Registration Statement under the 1933 Act covering
the Bond Index Fund Shares to be issued in the Consolidation; (iii) registration
or qualification fees and expenses of preparing and filing such forms, if any,
as are necessary under applicable state securities laws to qualify the Bond
Index Fund shares to be issued in connection with the Consolidation; (iv) any
fees and expenses of the Bond Index Fund's custodian and transfer agent(s)
incurred in connection with the Consolidation; and (v) any special pricing fees
associated with the valuation of the Bond Index Fund's portfolio on the
applicable Valuation Date.

                                       10
<PAGE>

          IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this instrument to
be executed by their duly authorized officers designated below as of the date
first written above.

                                  BARCLAYS GLOBAL INVESTORS FUNDS, INC.,
                                  on behalf of the U.S. Treasury Allocation Fund

ATTEST:

__________________________        By:____________________________________
R. Greg Feltus                    Richard H. Blank, Jr.
President                         Chief Operating Officer,
                                  Secretary and Treasurer


                                  BARCLAYS GLOBAL INVESTORS FUNDS, INC.,
                                  on behalf of the Bond Index Fund

ATTEST:

__________________________        By:____________________________________
R. Greg Feltus                    Richard H. Blank, Jr.
President                         Chief Operating Officer,
                                  Secretary and Treasurer

                                       11


© 2022 IncJournal is not affiliated with or endorsed by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission