THE JPM PIERPONT FUNDS
THE JPM PIERPONT MONEY MARKET FUND
THE JPM PIERPONT TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET FUND
THE JPM PIERPONT TREASURY MONEY MARKET FUND
THE JPM PIERPONT SHORT TERM BOND FUND
THE JPM PIERPONT BOND FUND
THE JPM PIERPONT TAX EXEMPT BOND FUND
THE JPM PIERPONT NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND
THE JPM PIERPONT DIVERSIFIED FUND
THE JPM PIERPONT EQUITY FUND
THE JPM PIERPONT CAPITAL APPRECIATION FUND
THE JPM PIERPONT INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND
THE JPM PIERPONT EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND
THE JPM PIERPONT INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND
THE JPM PIERPONT EUROPEAN EQUITY FUND
THE JPM PIERPONT JAPAN EQUITY FUND
THE JPM PIERPONT ASIA GROWTH FUND
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
DECEMBER 27, 1996
THIS STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION IS NOT A PROSPECTUS, BUT CONTAINS
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION WHICH SHOULD BE READ IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE PROSPECTUS
FOR THE FUND OR FUNDS LISTED ABOVE, AS SUPPLEMENTED FROM TIME TO TIME, WHICH MAY
BE OBTAINED UPON REQUEST FROM FUNDS DISTRIBUTOR, INC., ATTENTION: THE JPM
PIERPONT FUNDS; (800) 221-7930.
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Table of Contents
Page
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General................................. 1
Investment Objectives and Policies...... 1
Investment Restrictions................. 29
Trustees and Officers................... 48
Investment Advisor...................... 53
Distributor............................. 57
Co-Administrator........................ 58
Services Agent.......................... 60
Custodian and Transfer Agent............ 63
Shareholder Servicing................... 63
Independent Accountants................. 65
Expenses................................ 66
Purchase of Shares...................... 66
Redemption of Shares.................... 67
Exchange of Shares...................... 67
Dividends and Distributions............. 67
Net Asset Value......................... 68
Performance Data........................ 69
Portfolio Transactions.................. 73
Massachusetts Trust..................... 75
Description of Shares................... 76
Taxes................................... 79
Additional Information.................. 83
Financial Statements.................... 83
Appendix A - Description of Securities
Ratings................................ A-1
Appendix B - Additional Information
Concerning New York Municipal
Obligations............................ B-1
Appendix C - Investing in Japan
and Asian Growth Markets............... C-1
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GENERAL
The JPM Pierpont Funds currently consist of sixteen funds: The JPM Pierpont
Money Market Fund, The JPM Pierpont Treasury Money Market Fund, The JPM Pierpont
Tax Exempt Money Market Fund, The JPM Pierpont Short Term Bond Fund, The JPM
Pierpont Bond Fund, The JPM Pierpont Tax Exempt Bond Fund, The JPM Pierpont New
York Total Return Bond Fund, The JPM Pierpont Equity Fund, The JPM Pierpont
Capital Appreciation Fund, The JPM Pierpont International Equity Fund, The JPM
Pierpont Emerging Markets Equity Fund, The JPM Pierpont International
Opportunities Fund, The JPM Pierpont Diversified Fund, The JPM Pierpont European
Equity Fund, The JPM Pierpont Japan Equity Fund and The JPM Pierpont Asia Growth
Fund (collectively, the "Funds"). Each of the Funds is a series of shares of
beneficial interest of The JPM Pierpont Funds, an open-end management investment
company formed as a Massachusetts business trust (the "Trust").
This Statement of Additional Information describes the financial history,
investment objectives and policies, management and operation of each of the
Funds to enable investors to select the Funds which best suit their needs. The
JPM Pierpont Funds operate through a two-tier master-feeder investment fund
structure. Formerly, The JPM Pierpont Money Market Fund, The JPM Pierpont Tax
Exempt Money Market Fund, The JPM Pierpont Bond Fund, The JPM Pierpont Tax
Exempt Bond Fund, The JPM Pierpont Equity Fund, The JPM Pierpont Capital
Appreciation Fund, and The JPM Pierpont International Equity Fund operated as
free-standing mutual funds and not through the master-feeder structure. Where
indicated in this Statement of Additional Information, historical information
for each of these Funds includes information for their respective predecessor
entities.
This Statement of Additional Information provides additional information
with respect to the Funds and should be read in conjunction with the relevant
Fund's current Prospectus (the "Prospectus"). Capitalized terms not otherwise
defined herein have the meanings accorded to them in the Prospectus. The Funds'
executive offices are located at 60 State Street, Suite 1300, Boston,
Massachusetts 02109.
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
THE JPM PIERPONT MONEY MARKET FUND (the "Money Market Fund") is designed to
be an economical and convenient means of making substantial investments in money
market instruments. The Money Market Fund's investment objective is to maximize
current income and maintain a high level of liquidity. The Fund attempts to
achieve this objective by investing all of its investable assets in The Money
Market Portfolio (the "Portfolio"), a diversified open-end management investment
company having the same investment objective as the Money Market Fund.
The Portfolio seeks to achieve its investment objective by maintaining a
dollar-weighted average portfolio maturity of not more than 90 days and by
investing in U.S. dollar denominated securities described in the Prospectus and
this Statement of Additional Information that meet certain rating criteria,
present minimal credit risk and have effective maturities of not more than
thirteen months. The Portfolio's ability to achieve maximum current income is
affected by its high quality standards. See "Quality and Diversification
Requirements."
THE JPM PIERPONT TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET FUND (the "Tax Exempt Money Market
Fund") is designed to be an economical and convenient means of making
substantial investments in instruments that are exempt from federal income tax.
The Tax Exempt Money Market Fund's investment objective is to provide a high
level of current income that is exempt from federal income tax and maintain a
high level of liquidity. See "Taxes." The Fund attempts to achieve this
objective by investing all of its investable assets in The Tax Exempt Money
Market Portfolio
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(the "Portfolio"), a diversified open-end management investment company having
the same investment objective as the Tax Exempt Money Market Fund.
The Portfolio attempts to achieve its investment objective by maintaining a
dollar-weighted average portfolio maturity of not more than 90 days and by
investing in U.S. dollar-denominated securities described in the Prospectus and
this Statement of Additional Information that meet certain rating criteria,
present minimal credit risks, have effective maturities of not more than
thirteen months and earn interest wholly exempt from federal income tax in the
opinion of bond counsel for the issuer, but it may invest up to 20% of its total
assets in taxable obligations. See "Quality and Diversification Requirements."
Interest on these securities may be subject to state and local taxes. For more
detailed information regarding tax matters, including the applicability of the
alternative minimum tax, see "Taxes."
THE JPM PIERPONT TREASURY MONEY MARKET FUND (the "Treasury Money Market
Fund") is designed to be an economical and convenient means of making
substantial investments primarily in short term direct obligations of the U.S.
Government. The Treasury Money Market Fund's investment objective is to provide
current income, maintain a high level of liquidity and preserve capital. The
Fund attempts to accomplish this objective by investing all of its investable
assets in The Treasury Money Market Portfolio (the "Portfolio"), a diversified
open-end management investment company having the same investment objective as
the Treasury Money Market Fund.
The Portfolio attempts to achieve its investment objective by maintaining a
dollar-weighted average portfolio maturity of not more than 90 days and by
investing primarily in U.S. Treasury securities and by investing in certain U.S.
Treasury securities described in the Prospectus and in this Statement of
Additional Information that have effective maturities of not more than thirteen
months. See "Quality and Diversification Requirements."
THE JPM PIERPONT SHORT TERM BOND FUND (the "Short Term Bond Fund") is
designed for investors who place a strong emphasis on conservation of capital
but who also want a return greater than that of a money market fund or other
very low risk investment vehicles. The Fund is appropriate for investors who do
not require the stable net asset value typical of a money market fund but who
want less price fluctuation than is typical of a longer-term bond fund. The
Short Term Bond Fund's investment objective is to provide a high total return
while attempting to limit the likelihood of negative quarterly returns. The
Short Term Bond Fund seeks to achieve this high total return to the extent
consistent with modest risk of capital and the maintenance of liquidity. The
Short Term Bond Fund attempts to achieve its investment objective by investing
all of its investable assets in The Short Term Bond Portfolio (the "Portfolio"),
a diversified open-end management investment company having the same investment
objective as the Short Term Bond Fund.
The Portfolio attempts to achieve its investment objective by investing
primarily in the corporate and government debt obligations and related
securities described in the Prospectus and this Statement of Additional
Information.
THE JPM PIERPONT BOND FUND (the "Bond Fund") is designed to be an
economical and convenient means of making substantial investments in a broad
range of corporate and government debt obligations and related investments of
domestic and foreign issuers, subject to certain quality and other restrictions.
See "Quality and Diversification Requirements." The Bond Fund's investment
objective is to provide a high total return consistent with moderate risk of
capital and maintenance of liquidity. Although the net asset value of the Bond
Fund will fluctuate, the Bond Fund attempts to conserve the value of its
investments to the extent consistent with its objective. The Bond Fund attempts
to achieve its objective by investing all of its investable assets in The U.S.
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Fixed Income Portfolio (the "Portfolio"), a diversified open-end management
investment company having the same investment objective as the Bond Fund.
The Portfolio attempts to achieve its investment objective by investing in
high grade corporate and government debt obligations and related securities of
domestic and foreign issuers described in the Prospectus and this Statement of
Additional Information.
INVESTMENT PROCESS FOR THE U.S. FIXED INCOME PORTFOLIO
Duration/yield curve management: Morgan's duration decision begins with an
analysis of real yields, which its research indicates are generally a reliable
indicator of longer term interest rate trends. Other factors Morgan studies in
regard to interest rates include economic growth and inflation, capital flows
and monetary policy. Based on this analysis, Morgan forms a view of the most
likely changes in the level and shape of the yield curve -- as well as the
timing of those changes -- and sets the Portfolio's duration and maturity
structure accordingly. Morgan typically limits the overall duration of the
Portfolio to a range between one year shorter and one year longer than that of
the Salomon Brothers Broad Investment Grade Bond Index, the benchmark index.
Sector allocations: Sector allocations are driven by Morgan's fundamental
and quantitative analysis of the relative valuation of a broad array of fixed
income sectors. Specifically, Morgan utilizes market and credit analysis to
assess whether the current risk-adjusted yield spreads of various sectors are
likely to widen or narrow. Morgan then overweights (underweights) those sectors
its analysis indicates offer the most (least) relative value, basing the speed
and magnitude of these shifts on valuation considerations.
Security selection: Securities are selected by the portfolio manager, with
substantial input from Morgan's fixed income analysts and traders. Using
quantitative analysis as well as traditional valuation methods, Morgan's applied
research analysts aim to optimize security selection within the bounds of the
Portfolio's investment objective. In addition, credit analysts -- supported by
Morgan's equity analysts -- assess the creditworthiness of issuers and
counterparties. A dedicated trading desk contributes to security selection by
tracking new issuance, monitoring dealer inventories, and identifying
attractively priced bonds. The traders also handle all transactions for the
Portfolio.
THE JPM PIERPONT TAX EXEMPT BOND FUND (the "Tax Exempt Bond Fund") is
designed to be an economical and convenient means of making substantial
investments in debt obligations that are exempt from federal income tax. The
Tax Exempt Bond Fund's investment objective is to provide a high level of
current income exempt from federal income tax consistent with moderate risk of
capital and maintenance of liquidity. See "Taxes." The Fund attempts to
achieve its investment objective by investing all of its investable assets in
The Tax Exempt Bond Portfolio (the "Portfolio"), a diversified open-end
management investment company having the same investment objective as the Tax
Exempt Bond Fund.
The Portfolio attempts to achieve its investment objective by investing
primarily in securities of states, territories and possessions of the United
States and their political subdivisions, agencies and instrumentalities, the
interest of which is exempt from federal income tax in the opinion of bond
counsel for the issuer, but it may invest up to 20% of its total assets in
taxable obligations. The Tax Exempt Bond Fund seeks to maintain a current yield
that is greater than that obtainable from a portfolio of short term tax exempt
obligations, subject to certain quality restrictions. See "Quality and
Diversification Requirements."
THE JPM PIERPONT NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND (the "New York Total
Return Bond Fund") is designed to be an economical and convenient means of
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investing in a portfolio consisting primarily of debt obligations that are
exempt from federal and New York State income taxes. The New York Total Return
Bond Fund's investment objective is to provide a high after tax total return for
New York residents consistent with moderate risk of capital. Total return will
consist of income plus capital gains and losses. The Fund attempts to achieve
its objective by investing all of its investable assets in The New York Total
Return Bond Portfolio (the "Portfolio"), a non-diversified open-end management
investment company having the same investment objective as the Fund.
The Portfolio attempts to achieve its investment objective by investing
primarily in municipal securities issued by New York State and its political
subdivisions and by agencies, authorities and instrumentalities of New York and
its political subdivisions. These securities earn income exempt from federal
and New York State and local income taxes but, in certain circumstances, may be
subject to alternative minimum tax. In addition, the Portfolio may invest in
municipal securities issued by states other than New York, by territories and
possessions of the United States and by the District of Columbia and their
political subdivisions, agencies and instrumentalities. These securities earn
income exempt from federal income taxes but, in certain circumstances, may be
subject to alternative minimum tax. In order to seek to enhance the Portfolio's
after tax return, the Portfolio may also invest in securities which earn income
subject to New York and/or federal income taxes. These securities include U.S.
government securities, corporate securities and municipal securities issued on a
taxable basis.
THE JPM PIERPONT DIVERSIFIED FUND (the "Diversified Fund") is designed for
investors who wish to invest for long term objectives such as retirement and who
seek to attain real appreciation in their investments over the long term, but
with somewhat less price fluctuation than a portfolio consisting solely of
equity securities. The Diversified Fund's investment objective is to provide a
high total return from a diversified portfolio of equity and fixed income
securities. The Fund attempts to achieve its investment objective by investing
all of its investable assets in The Diversified Portfolio (the "Portfolio"), a
diversified open-end management investment company having the same investment
objective as the Diversified Fund.
INVESTMENT PROCESS FOR THE DIVERSIFIED PORTFOLIO
The mix of equities and fixed income is based on the risk premium model and
the anticipation of changing economic trends. The risk premium is the
difference between Morgan's forecast of the long-term return on stocks
(determined using Morgan's proprietary dividend discount model) and the current
nominal yield on 30-year U.S. Treasury bonds. When the risk premium is high,
more assets are allocated to stocks. When the risk premium is low, more assets
are allocated to bonds. Within U.S. equities, the allocation between large cap
and small cap stocks is based on the relative dividend discount rate spread
between large and small cap. Within fixed income, the allocation among sectors
is based on Morgan's analysis of their relative valuation. Morgan's asset
allocation decisions for the Portfolio are implemented using the investment
processes described herein for the Bond, Equity, Capital Appreciation and
International Equity Funds.
THE JPM PIERPONT EQUITY FUND (the "Equity Fund") is designed for investors
who want an actively managed portfolio of selected equity securities that seeks
to outperform the S&P 500 Index. The Equity Fund's investment objective is to
provide a high total return from a portfolio of selected equity securities. The
Fund attempts to achieve its investment objective by investing all of its
investable assets in The Selected U.S. Equity Portfolio (the "Portfolio"), a
diversified open-end management investment company having the same investment
objective as the Equity Fund.
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In normal circumstances, at least 65% of the Portfolio's net assets will be
invested in equity securities consisting of common stocks and other securities
with equity characteristics comprised of preferred stock, warrants, rights,
convertible securities, trust certifications, limited partnership interests and
equity participations (collectively, "Equity Securities"). The Portfolio's
primary equity investments are the common stock of large and medium sized U.S.
corporations and, to a limited extent, similar securities of foreign
corporations.
INVESTMENT PROCESS FOR THE SELECTED U.S. EQUITY PORTFOLIO
Fundamental research: Morgan's 20 domestic equity analysts, each an
industry specialist with an average of 13 years of experience, follow 700
predominantly large- and medium-sized U.S. companies -- 500 of which form the
universe for the Portfolio's investments. Their research goal is to forecast
normalized, longer term earnings and dividends for the most attractive companies
among those they cover. In doing this, they may work in concert with Morgan's
international equity analysts in order to gain a broader perspective for
evaluating industries and companies in today's global economy.
Systematic valuation: The analysts' forecasts are converted into comparable
expected returns by a dividend discount model, which calculates those expected
returns by comparing a company's current stock price with the "fair value" price
forecasted by its estimated long term-earnings power. Within each sector,
companies are ranked by their expected return and grouped into quintiles: those
with the highest expected returns (Quintile 1) are deemed the most undervalued
relative to their long-term earnings power, while those with the lowest expected
returns (Quintile 5) are deemed the most overvalued.
Disciplined portfolio construction: A diversified portfolio is constructed
using disciplined buy and sell rules. Purchases are concentrated among first-
quintile stocks; the specific names selected reflect the portfolio manager's
judgment concerning the soundness of the underlying forecasts, the likelihood
that the perceived misvaluation will be corrected within a reasonable time
frame, and the magnitude of the risks versus the rewards. Once a stock falls
into the third quintile -- because its price has risen or its fundamentals have
deteriorated -- it generally becomes a candidate for sale. The portfolio
manager seeks to hold sector weightings close to those of the S&P 500 Index,
reflecting Morgan's belief that its research has the potential to add value at
the individual stock level, but not at the sector level. Sector neutrality is
also seen as a way to help protect the portfolio from macroeconomic risks, and -
- - together with diversification -- represents an important element of Morgan's
risk control strategy. A dedicated trading desk handles all transactions for
the Portfolio.
THE JPM PIERPONT CAPITAL APPRECIATION FUND (the "Capital Appreciation
Fund") is designed for investors who are willing to assume the somewhat higher
risk of investing in small companies in order to seek a higher return over time
than might be expected from a portfolio of stocks of large companies. The
Capital Appreciation Fund's investment objective is to provide a high total
return from a portfolio of Equity Securities of small companies. The Fund
attempts to achieve its investment objective by investing all of its investable
assets in The U.S. Small Company Portfolio (the "Portfolio"), a diversified
open-end management investment company having the same investment objective as
the Capital Appreciation Fund.
The Portfolio attempts to achieve its investment objective by investing
primarily in the common stock of small U.S. companies included in the Russell
2500 Index, which is composed of 2,500 common stocks of U.S. companies with
market capitalizations ranging between $100 million and $1.5 billion.
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INVESTMENT PROCESS FOR THE U.S. SMALL COMPANY PORTFOLIO
Fundamental research: Morgan's 20 domestic equity analysts -- each an
industry specialist with an average of 13 years of experience -- continuously
monitor the small cap stocks in their respective sectors with the aim of
identifying companies that exhibit superior financial strength and operating
returns. Meetings with management and on-site visits play a key role in shaping
their assessments. Their research goal is to forecast normalized, long-term
earnings and dividends for the most attractive small cap companies among those
they monitor -- a universe that generally contains a total of 300-350 names.
Because Morgan's analysts follow both the larger and smaller companies in their
industries -- in essence, covering their industries from top to bottom -- they
are able to bring broad perspective to the research they do on both.
Systematic valuation: The analysts' forecasts are converted into comparable
expected returns by Morgan's dividend discount model, which calculates those
returns by comparing a company's current stock price with the "fair value" price
forecasted by its estimated long-term earnings power. Within each industry,
companies are ranked by their expected returns and grouped into quintiles: those
with the highest expected returns (Quintile 1) are deemed the most undervalued
relative to their long-term earnings power, while those with the lowest expected
returns (Quintile 5) are deemed the most overvalued.
Disciplined portfolio construction: A diversified portfolio is constructed
using disciplined buy and sell rules. Purchases are concentrated among the
stocks in the top two quintiles of the rankings; the specific names selected
reflect the portfolio manager's judgment concerning the soundness of the
underlying forecasts, the likelihood that the perceived misevaluation will soon
be corrected, and the magnitude of the risks versus the rewards. Once a stock
falls into the third quintile -- because its price has risen or its fundamentals
have deteriorated -- it generally becomes a candidate for sale. The portfolio
manager seeks to hold sector weightings close to those of the Russell 2500
Index, the Portfolio's benchmark, reflecting Morgan's belief that its research
has the potential to add value at the individual stock level, but not at the
sector level. Sector neutrality is also seen as a way to help to protect the
portfolio from macroeconomic risks, and -- together with diversification --
represents an important element of Morgan's investment strategy.
THE JPM PIERPONT INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND (the "International Equity
Fund") is designed for investors with a long term investment horizon who want to
diversify their portfolios by investing in an actively managed portfolio of non-
U.S. securities that seeks to outperform the Morgan Stanley Capital
International ("MSCI") Europe, Australia and Far East Index (the "EAFE Index").
The International Equity Fund's investment objective is to provide a high total
return from a portfolio of Equity Securities of foreign corporations. The Fund
attempts to achieve its investment objective by investing all of its investable
assets in The Non-U.S. Equity Portfolio (the "Portfolio"), a diversified open-
end management investment company having the same investment objective as the
International Equity Fund.
The Portfolio seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing
primarily in the Equity Securities of foreign corporations. Under normal
circumstances, the Portfolio expects to invest at least 65% of its total assets
in such securities. The Portfolio does not intend to invest in U.S. securities
(other than money market instruments), except temporarily, when extraordinary
circumstances prevailing at the same time in a significant number of developed
foreign countries render investments in such countries inadvisable.
INVESTMENT PROCESS FOR THE NON-U.S. EQUITY PORTFOLIO
Country allocation: Morgan's country allocation decision begins with a
forecast of equity risk premiums, which provide a valuation signal by measuring
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the relative attractiveness of stocks versus bonds. Using a proprietary
approach, Morgan calculates this risk premium for each of the nations in the
Portfolio's universe, determines the extent of its deviation -- if any -- from
its historical norm, and then ranks countries according to the size of those
deviations. Countries with high (low) rankings are overweighted (underweighted)
in comparisons to the EAFE Index to reflect the above-average (below-average)
attractiveness of their stock markets. In determining weightings, Morgan
analyzes a variety of qualitative factors as well -- including the liquidity,
earnings momentum and interest rate climate of the market at hand. These
qualitative assessments can change the magnitude but not the direction of the
country allocations called for by the risk premium forecast. Morgan places
limits on the total size of the Portfolio's country over- and under-weightings
relative to the EAFE Index.
Stock selection: Morgan's 44 international equity analysts, each an
industry and country specialist, forecast normalized earnings and dividend
payouts for roughly 1,000 non-U.S. companies -- taking a long-term perspective
rather than the short time frame common to consensus estimates. These forecasts
are converted into comparable expected returns by a dividend discount model, and
then companies are ranked from most to least attractive by industry and country.
A diversified portfolio is constructed using disciplined buy and sell rules. The
portfolio manager's objective is to concentrate the purchases in the stocks
deemed most undervalued, and to keep sector weightings close to those of the
EAFE Index, the Fund's benchmark. Once a stock falls into the bottom half of
the rankings, it generally becomes a candidate for sale. Where available,
warrants and convertibles may be purchased instead of common stock if they are
deemed a more attractive means of investing in an undervalued company.
Currency management: Currency is actively managed, in conjunction with
country and stock allocation, with the goal of protecting and possibly enhancing
the Fund's return. Morgan's currency decisions are supported by a proprietary
tactical mode which forecasts currency movements based on an analysis of four
fundamental factors -- trade balance trends, purchasing power parity, real
short-term interest differentials and real bond yields -- plus a technical
factor designed to improve the timing of transactions. Combining the output of
this model with a subjective assessment of economic, political and market
factors, Morgan's currency group recommends currency strategies that are
implemented in conjunction with the Portfolio's investment strategy.
THE JPM PIERPONT EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND (the "Emerging Markets Equity
Fund") is designed for investors with a long term investment horizon who want
exposure to the rapidly growing emerging markets. The Emerging Markets Equity
Fund's investment objective is to provide a high total return from a portfolio
of Equity Securities of companies in emerging markets. The Fund attempts to
achieve its investment objective by investing all of its investable assets in
The Emerging Markets Equity Portfolio (the "Portfolio"), a diversified open-end
management investment company having the same investment objective as the
Emerging Markets Equity Fund.
The Portfolio seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing
primarily in Equity Securities of emerging markets issuers. Under normal
circumstances, the Portfolio expects to invest at least 65% of its total assets
in such securities. The Portfolio does not intend to invest in U.S. securities
(other than money market instruments), except temporarily, when extraordinary
circumstances prevailing at the same time in a significant number of emerging
markets countries render investments in such countries inadvisable.
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INVESTMENT PROCESS FOR THE EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY PORTFOLIO
Country allocation: Morgan's country allocation decision begins with a
forecast of the expected return of each market in the Portfolio's universe.
These expected returns are calculated using a proprietary valuation method that
is forward looking in nature rather than based on historical data. Morgan then
evaluates these expected returns from two different perspectives: first, it
identifies those countries that have high real expected returns relative to
their own history and other nations in their universe. Second, it identifies
those countries that it expects will provide high returns relative to their
currency risk. Countries that rank highly on one or both of these scores are
overweighted relative to the Fund's benchmark, the MSCI Emerging Markets Free
Index, while those that rank poorly are underweighted. To help contain risk,
Morgan places limits on the total size of the Portfolio's country over- and
under-weightings.
Stock selection: Morgan's 12 emerging market equity analysts -- each an
industry specialist -- monitor a universe of approximately 900 companies in
these countries, developing forecasts of earnings and cash flows for the most
attractive among them. Companies are ranked from most to least attractive based
on this research, and then a diversified portfolio is constructed using
disciplined buy and sell rules. The portfolio manager's objective is to
concentrate the Portfolio's holdings in the stocks deemed most undervalued, and
to keep sector weightings relatively close to those of the index. Stocks are
generally held until they fall into the bottom half of Morgan's rankings.
THE JPM PIERPONT INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND (the "International
Opportunities Fund") is designed for long-term investors who want to invest in
an actively managed portfolio of common stocks and other equity securities of
non-U.S. companies, including companies located in emerging markets. The
International Opportunities Fund's investment objective is to provide a high
total return from a portfolio of equity securities of foreign corporations in
developed and to a lesser extent, developing markets. The Fund attempts to
achieve its investment objective by investing all of its investable assets in
The International Opportunities Portfolio (the "Portfolio"), a diversified open-
end management investment company having the same investment objective as the
International Opportunities Fund.
The Portfolio invests primarily in common stocks and other equity
securities of non-U.S. issuers in developed and developing countries. Under
normal circumstances, the Portfolio expects to invest at least 65% of its total
assets in such securities. The Portfolio does not intend to invest in U.S.
securities (other than money market instruments), except temporarily, when
extraordinary circumstances prevailing at the same time in a significant number
of foreign countries render investments in such countries inadvisable.
INVESTMENT PROCESS FOR THE INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES PORTFOLIO
Country allocation (developed countries): Morgan's country allocation
decision for securities issued in developed countries begins with a forecast of
equity risk premiums, which provide a valuation signal by measuring the relative
attractiveness of stocks versus bonds. Using a proprietary approach, Morgan
calculates this risk premium for each of the developed countries in the
Portfolio's universe, determines the extent of its deviation -- if any -- from
its historical norm, and then ranks countries according to the size of those
deviations. Countries with high (low) rankings are emphasized (deemphasized) to
reflect the above-average (below-average) attractiveness of their stock markets.
In determining these weightings, Morgan analyzes a variety of qualitative
factors as well -- including the liquidity, earnings momentum and interest rate
climate of the market at hand. These qualitative assessments can change the
magnitude but not the direction of the country allocations called for by the
risk premium forecast.
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Country allocation (emerging countries): Morgan's country allocation
decision for emerging markets securities begins with a forecast of the expected
return of each emerging market in the Portfolio's universe. These expected
returns are calculated using a proprietary valuation method that is forward
looking in nature rather than based on historical data. Morgan then evaluates
these expected returns from two different perspectives: first, it identifies
those countries that have high real expected returns relative to their own
history and other nations in their universe. Second, it identifies those
countries that it expects will provide high returns relative to their currency
risk. Countries that rank highly on one or both of these scores are
overweighted, while those that rank poorly are underweighted.
Stock selection: Morgan's 44 international equity analysts and 12 emerging
market equity analysts, each an industry and country specialist, forecast
normalized earnings, dividend payouts and cash flows for roughly 1,000 non-U.S.
companies -- taking a long-term perspective rather than the short time frame
common to consensus estimates. These forecasts are converted into comparable
expected returns by a dividend discount model, and then companies are ranked
from most to least attractive by industry and country. A diversified portfolio
is constructed using disciplined buy and sell rules. The portfolio manager's
objective is to concentrate the Portfolio's purchases in the stocks deemed most
undervalued. Stocks generally become a candidate for sale when they fall into
the bottom half of Morgan's rankings. Where available, warrants and
convertibles may be purchased instead of common stock if they are deemed a more
attractive means of investing in an undervalued company.
Currency management: Morgan actively manages the currency exposure of the
Portfolio's investments in developed countries in conjunction with country and
stock allocation, with the goal of protecting and possibly enhancing the Fund's
return. Morgan's currency decisions are supported by a proprietary tactical
mode which forecasts currency movements based on an analysis of four fundamental
factors -- trade balance trends, purchasing power parity, real short-term
interest differentials and real bond yields -- plus a technical factor designed
to improve the timing of transactions. Combining the output of this model with
a subjective assessment of economic, political and market factors, Morgan's
currency group recommends currency strategies that are implemented in
conjunction with the Portfolio's investment strategy.
THE JPM PIERPONT EUROPEAN EQUITY FUND (the "European Equity Fund") is
designed for investors who want an actively managed portfolio of European Equity
Securities that seeks to outperform the Morgan Stanley Capital International
Europe Index which is comprised of more than 500 companies in fourteen European
countries. The European Equity Fund's investment objective is to provide a high
total return from a portfolio of Equity Securities of European companies. The
European Equity Fund attempts to achieve its investment objective by investing
all of its investable assets in The European Equity Portfolio (the "Portfolio"),
a diversified open-end management investment company having the same investment
objective as the European Equity Fund.
The Portfolio seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing
primarily in the Equity Securities of European companies. Under normal
circumstances, the Portfolio expects to invest at least 65% of its total assets
in such securities. The Portfolio does not intend to invest in U.S. securities
(other than money market instruments), except temporarily, when extraordinary
circumstances prevailing at the same time in a significant number of European
countries render investments in such countries inadvisable.
INVESTMENT PROCESS FOR THE EUROPEAN EQUITY PORTFOLIO
Country allocation: Morgan's country allocation decision begins with a
forecast of equity risk premiums, which provide a valuation signal by measuring
the relative attractiveness of stocks versus bonds. Using a proprietary
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approach, Morgan calculates this risk premium for each of the nations in the
Portfolio's universe, determines the extent of its deviation -- if any -- from
its historical norm, and then ranks countries according to the size of those
deviations. Countries with high (low) rankings are overweighted (underweighted)
in comparison to the Morgan Stanley Capital International Europe Index to
reflect the above-average (below-average) attractiveness of their stock markets.
In determining weightings, Morgan analyzes a variety of qualitative factors as
well -- including the liquidity, earnings momentum and interest rate climate of
the market at hand. These qualitative assessments can change the magnitude but
not the direction of the country allocations called for by the risk-premium
forecast. In an effort to contain risk, Morgan places limits on the total size
of the Portfolio's country over- and under-weightings.
Stock selection: Morgan's 15 European equity analysts, each an industry and
country specialist, forecast normalized earnings and dividend payouts for
roughly 600 companies, taking a long-term perspective rather than the short time
frame common to consensus estimates. The analysts' forecasts are converted into
comparable expected returns by a dividend discount model, and then companies are
ranked from most to least attractive by industry and country. A diversified
portfolio is constructed using disciplined buy and sell rules. The portfolio
manager's objective is to concentrate purchases in the top third of the
rankings, and to keep sector weightings close to those of the benchmark. Once a
stock falls into the bottom third of the rankings -- because its price has risen
or its fundamentals have deteriorated -- it generally becomes a candidate for
sale.
THE JPM PIERPONT JAPAN EQUITY FUND (the "Japan Equity Fund") is designed
for investors who want an actively managed portfolio of Japanese Equity
Securities that seeks to outperform the Tokyo Stock Price Index ("TOPIX"), a
composite market-capitalization weighted-index of all common stocks listed on
the First Section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange. The Japan Equity Fund's
investment objective is to provide a high total return from a portfolio of
Equity Securities of Japanese companies. The Japan Equity Fund attempts to
achieve its investment objective by investing all of its investable assets in
The Japan Equity Portfolio (the "Portfolio"), a non-diversified open-end
management investment company having the same investment objective as the Japan
Equity Fund. For additional information, see "Appendix C - Investing in Japan
and Asian Growth Markets."
The Portfolio seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing
primarily in the Equity Securities of Japanese companies. Under normal
circumstances, the Portfolio expects to invest at least 65% of its total assets
in such securities. The Portfolio does not intend to invest in U.S. securities
(other than money market instruments), except temporarily, when extraordinary
circumstances prevailing in Japan render investments there inadvisable.
INVESTMENT PROCESS FOR THE JAPAN EQUITY PORTFOLIO
Systematic valuation: Morgan's ten Japanese equity analysts in Tokyo --
each an industry specialist -- follow a total of over 300 Japanese companies.
The most attractive names in that universe are identified by a multifactor model
which screens for low price/earnings ratios, high earnings growth rates and high
sales/price ratios. Within each sector, this subset of the universe is ranked
by these three measures and broken into quintiles; the companies in the top
quintile are considered the most attractive ones from both a growth and
valuation viewpoint. To provide an additional check on the valuation of
selected companies, the analysts prepare normalized, long-term earnings and
dividend forecasts which are converted into comparable expected returns by a
dividend discount model.
Warrant/convertible strategy: Once a company has been identified as a buy
candidate, the portfolio manager analyzes the yields on the company's available
equity vehicles -- stocks, warrants and convertibles -- to determine which
appears the most attractive means of purchase. In an effort to enhance
potential
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returns, the Portfolio also trades among these vehicles -- a strategy that seeks
to capitalize on the inefficiencies that pervade the Japanese equity market. If
the Portfolio invests in a warrant, it will set aside cash in an amount
approximately equal to the difference in the price of the warrant and the market
value of the underlying common stock. The cash is invested in money market
instruments.
Disciplined portfolio construction: The Portfolio is constructed using
disciplined buy and sell rules. The portfolio manager's objective is to
concentrate purchases in the top 20% of the rankings; the specific companies
selected reflect the portfolio manager's judgment concerning the liquidity of an
issue, the soundness of the underlying forecasts, and the magnitude of the risks
versus the rewards. Once a stock falls into the third quintile -- because its
price has risen or its fundamentals have deteriorated -- it generally becomes a
candidate for sale. The portfolio manager strives to hold sector weightings
close to those of the benchmark in an effort to contain risk.
THE JPM PIERPONT ASIA GROWTH FUND (the "Asia Growth Fund") is designed for
long-term investors who want access to the rapidly growing Asian markets. The
Advisor considers Asian growth markets to be Bangladesh, China, India,
Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, Pakistan, the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Thailand,
Taiwan, Hong Kong and Singapore. The Asia Growth Fund's investment objective is
to provide a high total return from a portfolio of Equity Securities of
companies in Asian growth markets. The Asia Growth Fund attempts to achieve its
investment objective by investing all its investable assets in The Asia Growth
Portfolio (the "Portfolio"), a diversified open-end management investment
company having the same investment objective as the Asia Growth Fund. For
additional information, see "Appendix C -Investing in Japan and Asian Growth
Markets."
The Portfolio seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing
primarily in the Equity Securities of companies in Asian growth markets. Under
normal circumstances, the Portfolio expects to invest at least 65% of its total
assets in such securities. The Portfolio does not intend to invest in U.S.
securities (other than money market instruments), except temporarily, when
extraordinary circumstances prevailing at the same time in a significant number
of countries considered to be Asian growth markets render investments in such
countries inadvisable.
INVESTMENT PROCESS FOR THE ASIA GROWTH PORTFOLIO
Country allocation: Morgan's country allocation decision begins with a
forecast of equity risk premiums, which provide a valuation signal by measuring
the relative attractiveness of stocks versus bonds. Using a proprietary
approach, Morgan calculates this risk premium for each of the nations in the
Portfolio's universe, determines the extent of its deviation -- if any -- from
its historical norm, and then ranks countries according to the size of these
deviations. Countries with high (low) rankings are overweighted (underweighted)
to reflect the above-average (below average) attractiveness of their stock
markets. In determining weightings, Morgan analyzes a variety of qualitative
factors as well -- including the liquidity, earnings momentum and interest rate
climate of the market at hand. These qualitative assessments can change the
magnitude but not the direction of the country allocations called for by the
risk-premium forecast. In an effort to contain risk, Morgan places limits on
the total size of the Portfolio's country over- and under-weightings.
Stock selection: Morgan's six Asian equity analysts focused on Asian
markets -- each an industry and country specialist -- forecast normalized, long-
term earnings and dividend payouts for approximately 250 companies in this
region. These forecasts are converted into comparable expected returns by a
dividend discount model, and then companies are ranked from most to least
attractive by industry and country, and are grouped into quintiles. A
diversified portfolio is constructed using disciplined buy and sell rules. The
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portfolio manager's objective is to concentrate purchases in the top 20% of the
rankings, and to keep sector weightings close to those of the benchmark. Once a
stock falls into the third quintile -- because its price has risen or its
fundamentals have deteriorated -- it generally becomes a candidate for sale.
Where available, warrants and convertibles are purchased when they appear to
have the potential to add value over common stock.
The following discussion supplements the information regarding the
investment objective of each of the Funds and the policies to be employed to
achieve this objective by their corresponding Portfolios as set forth above and
in the Prospectus. The investment objective of each Fund and its corresponding
Portfolio is identical. Accordingly, references below to a Fund also include
the Fund's corresponding Portfolio; similarly, references to a Portfolio also
include the corresponding Fund that invests in the Portfolio unless the context
requires otherwise.
MONEY MARKET INSTRUMENTS
As discussed in the Prospectus, each Fund may invest in money market
instruments to the extent consistent with its investment objective and policies.
A description of the various types of money market instruments that may be
purchased by the Funds appears below. Also see "Quality and Diversification
Requirements."
U.S. TREASURY SECURITIES. Each of the Funds may invest in direct
obligations of the U.S. Treasury, including Treasury bills, notes and bonds, all
of which are backed as to principal and interest payments by the full faith and
credit of the United States.
ADDITIONAL U.S. GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS. Each of the Funds may invest in
obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. Government agencies or
instrumentalities, except that the Treasury Money Market Fund may only invest in
certain of these obligations as noted below. These obligations may or may not
be backed by the "full faith and credit" of the United States. In the case of
securities not backed by the full faith and credit of the United States, each
Fund must look principally to the federal agency issuing or guaranteeing the
obligation for ultimate repayment, and may not be able to assert a claim against
the United States itself in the event the agency or instrumentality does not
meet its commitments. Securities in which each Fund, except the Treasury Money
Market Fund, may invest that are not backed by the full faith and credit of the
United States include, but are not limited to, obligations of the Tennessee
Valley Authority, the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation and the U.S. Postal
Service, each of which has the right to borrow from the U.S. Treasury to meet
its obligations. Securities in which each Fund, including the Treasury Money
Market Fund, may invest that are not backed by the full faith and credit of the
United States include, and only for the Treasury Money Market Fund are limited
to, obligations of the Federal Farm Credit System and the Federal Home Loan
Banks, both of whose obligations may be satisfied only by the individual credits
of each issuing agency. Securities which are backed by the full faith and
credit of the United States include obligations of the Government National
Mortgage Association, the Farmers Home Administration, and the Export-Import
Bank.
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT OBLIGATIONS. Each of the Funds, except the Tax Exempt
Money Market Fund, the Treasury Money Market Fund, the Tax Exempt Bond Fund and
the New York Total Return Bond Fund, subject to its applicable investment
policies, may also invest in short-term obligations of foreign sovereign
governments or of their agencies, instrumentalities, authorities or political
subdivisions. These securities may be denominated in the U.S. dollar or, in the
case of the Equity, Capital Appreciation, International Equity, Emerging Markets
Equity, International Opportunities, Diversified, European Equity, Japan Equity
and Asia Growth Funds, in another currency. See "Foreign Investments."
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BANK OBLIGATIONS. Each of the Funds, except the Treasury Money Market
Fund, unless otherwise noted in the Prospectus or below, may invest in
negotiable certificates of deposit, time deposits and bankers' acceptances of
(i) banks, savings and loan associations and savings banks which have more than
$2 billion in total assets (the "Asset Limitation") and are organized under the
laws of the United States or any state, (ii) foreign branches of these banks or
of foreign banks of equivalent size (Euros) and (iii) U.S. branches of foreign
banks of equivalent size (Yankees). The Tax Exempt Money Market, Tax Exempt
Bond and New York Total Return Bond Funds may not invest in obligations of
foreign branches of foreign banks and the Asset Limitation is not applicable to
the International Equity, Emerging Markets Equity, International Opportunities,
European Equity, Japan Equity or Asia Growth Funds. See "Foreign Investments."
The Funds will not invest in obligations for which the Advisor, or any of its
affiliated persons, is the ultimate obligor or accepting bank. Each of the
Funds, other than the Tax Exempt Money Market, Treasury Money Market, Tax Exempt
Bond and New York Total Return Bond Funds, may also invest in obligations of
international banking institutions designated or supported by national
governments to promote economic reconstruction, development or trade between
nations (e.g., the European Investment Bank, the Inter-American Development
Bank, or the World Bank).
COMMERCIAL PAPER. Each of the Funds (except the Treasury Money Market
Fund) may invest in commercial paper, including master demand obligations.
Master demand obligations are obligations that provide for a periodic adjustment
in the interest rate paid and permit daily changes in the amount borrowed.
Master demand obligations are governed by agreements between the issuer and
Morgan Guaranty Trust Company of New York acting as agent, for no additional
fee, in its capacity as investment advisor to the Portfolios and as fiduciary
for other clients for whom it exercises investment discretion. The monies
loaned to the borrower come from accounts managed by the Advisor or its
affiliates, pursuant to arrangements with such accounts. Interest and principal
payments are credited to such accounts. The Advisor, acting as a fiduciary on
behalf of its clients, has the right to increase or decrease the amount provided
to the borrower under an obligation. The borrower has the right to pay without
penalty all or any part of the principal amount then outstanding on an
obligation together with interest to the date of payment. Since these
obligations typically provide that the interest rate is tied to the Federal
Reserve commercial paper composite rate, the rate on master demand obligations
is subject to change. Repayment of a master demand obligation to participating
accounts depends on the ability of the borrower to pay the accrued interest and
principal of the obligation on demand which is continuously monitored by the
Advisor. Since master demand obligations typically are not rated by credit
rating agencies, the Funds may invest in such unrated obligations only if at the
time of an investment the obligation is determined by the Advisor to have a
credit quality which satisfies the Fund's quality restrictions. See "Quality
and Diversification Requirements." Although there is no secondary market for
master demand obligations, such obligations are considered by the Funds to be
liquid because they are payable upon demand. The Funds do not have any specific
percentage limitation on investments in master demand obligations.
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS. Each of the Funds may enter into repurchase
agreements with brokers, dealers or banks that meet the credit guidelines
approved by the Funds' Trustees. In a repurchase agreement, a Fund buys a
security from a seller that has agreed to repurchase the same security at a
mutually agreed upon date and price. The resale price normally is in excess of
the purchase price, reflecting an agreed upon interest rate. This interest rate
is effective for the period of time the Fund is invested in the agreement and is
not related to the coupon rate on the underlying security. A repurchase
agreement may also be viewed as a fully collateralized loan of money by a Fund
to the seller. The period of these repurchase agreements will usually be short,
from overnight to one week, and at no time will the Funds invest in repurchase
agreements for more than thirteen months. The securities which are subject to
repurchase agreements, however, may have maturity dates in excess of thirteen
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months from the effective date of the repurchase agreement. The Treasury Money
Market Fund will only enter into repurchase agreements involving U.S. Treasury
securities or permitted agency securities. The Funds will always receive
securities as collateral whose market value is, and during the entire term of
the agreement remains, at least equal to 100% of the dollar amount invested by
the Funds in each agreement plus accrued interest, and the Funds will make
payment for such securities only upon physical delivery or upon evidence of book
entry transfer to the account of the Custodian. The Money Market, Tax Exempt
Money Market, and Treasury Money Market Funds will be fully collateralized
within the meaning of paragraph (a)(4) of Rule 2a-7 under the Investment Company
Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"). If the seller defaults, a Fund might
incur a loss if the value of the collateral securing the repurchase agreement
declines and might incur disposition costs in connection with liquidating the
collateral. In addition, if bankruptcy proceedings are commenced with respect
to the seller of the security, realization upon disposal of the collateral by a
Fund may be delayed or limited.
Each of the Funds (other than the Treasury Money Market Fund) may make
investments in other debt securities with remaining effective maturities of not
more than thirteen months, including without limitation corporate and foreign
bonds, asset-backed securities and other obligations described in the Prospectus
or this Statement of Additional Information. The Tax Exempt Money Market and
Tax Exempt Bond Funds may not invest in foreign bonds or asset-backed
securities.
CORPORATE BONDS AND OTHER DEBT SECURITIES
As discussed in the Prospectus, the Bond, Short Term Bond, New York Total
Return Bond, Diversified and European Equity Funds may invest in bonds and other
debt securities of domestic and (except for the New York Total Return Bond Fund)
foreign issuers to the extent consistent with their investment objectives and
policies. A description of these investments appears in the Prospectus and
below. See "Quality and Diversification Requirements." For information on
short-term investments in these securities, see "Money Market Instruments."
ASSET-BACKED SECURITIES. Asset-backed securities directly or indirectly
represent a participation interest in, or are secured by and payable from, a
stream of payments generated by particular assets such as motor vehicle or
credit card receivables. Payments of principal and interest may be guaranteed
up to certain amounts and for a certain time period by a letter of credit issued
by a financial institution unaffiliated with the entities issuing the
securities. The asset-backed securities in which a Fund may invest are subject
to the Fund's overall credit requirements. However, asset-backed securities, in
general, are subject to certain risks. Most of these risks are related to
limited interests in applicable collateral. For example, credit card debt
receivables are generally unsecured and the debtors are entitled to the
protection of a number of state and federal consumer credit laws, many of which
give such debtors the right to set off certain amounts on credit card debt
thereby reducing the balance due. Additionally, if the letter of credit is
exhausted, holders of asset-backed securities may also experience delays in
payments or losses if the full amounts due on underlying sales contracts are not
realized. Because asset-backed securities are relatively new, the market
experience in these securities is limited and the market's ability to sustain
liquidity through all phases of the market cycle has not been tested.
TAX EXEMPT OBLIGATIONS
As discussed in the Prospectus, the Tax Exempt Money Market, Tax Exempt
Bond and New York Total Return Bond Funds and, in certain circumstances, the
Bond and Short Term Bond Funds, may invest in tax exempt obligations to the
extent consistent with each Fund's investment objective and policies. A
description of the various types of tax exempt obligations which may be
purchased by the Funds
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appears in the Prospectus and below. See "Quality and Diversification
Requirements."
MUNICIPAL BONDS. Municipal bonds are debt obligations issued by the
states, territories and possessions of the United States and the District of
Columbia, by their political subdivisions and by duly constituted authorities
and corporations. For example, states, territories, possessions and
municipalities may issue municipal bonds to raise funds for various public
purposes such as airports, housing, hospitals, mass transportation, schools,
water and sewer works. They may also issue municipal bonds to refund
outstanding obligations and to meet general operating expenses. Public
authorities issue municipal bonds to obtain funding for privately operated
facilities, such as housing and pollution control facilities, for industrial
facilities or for water supply, gas, electricity or waste disposal facilities.
Municipal bonds may be general obligation or revenue bonds. General
obligation bonds are secured by the issuer's pledge of its full faith, credit
and taxing power for the payment of principal and interest. Revenue bonds are
payable from revenues derived from particular facilities, from the proceeds of a
special excise tax or from other specific revenue sources. They are not
generally payable from the general taxing power of a municipality.
MUNICIPAL NOTES. Municipal notes are subdivided into three categories of
short-term obligations: municipal notes, municipal commercial paper and
municipal demand obligations.
Municipal notes are short-term obligations with a maturity at the time of
issuance ranging from six months to five years. The principal types of
municipal notes include tax anticipation notes, bond anticipation notes, revenue
anticipation notes, grant anticipation notes and project notes. Notes sold in
anticipation of collection of taxes, a bond sale, or receipt of other revenues
are usually general obligations of the issuing municipality or agency.
Municipal commercial paper typically consists of very short-term unsecured
negotiable promissory notes that are sold to meet seasonal working capital or
interim construction financing needs of a municipality or agency. While these
obligations are intended to be paid from general revenues or refinanced with
long-term debt, they frequently are backed by letters of credit, lending
agreements, note repurchase agreements or other credit facility agreements
offered by banks or institutions.
Municipal demand obligations are subdivided into two types: variable rate
demand notes and master demand obligations.
Variable rate demand notes are tax exempt municipal obligations or
participation interests that provide for a periodic adjustment in the interest
rate paid on the notes. They permit the holder to demand payment of the notes,
or to demand purchase of the notes at a purchase price equal to the unpaid
principal balance, plus accrued interest either directly by the issuer or by
drawing on a bank letter of credit or guaranty issued with respect to such note.
The issuer of the municipal obligation may have a corresponding right to prepay
at its discretion the outstanding principal of the note plus accrued interest
upon notice comparable to that required for the holder to demand payment. The
variable rate demand notes in which each Fund may invest are payable, or are
subject to purchase, on demand usually on notice of seven calendar days or less.
The terms of the notes provide that interest rates are adjustable at intervals
ranging from daily to six months, and the adjustments are based upon the prime
rate of a bank or other appropriate interest rate index specified in the
respective notes. Variable rate demand notes are valued at amortized cost; no
value is assigned to the right of each Fund to receive the par value of the
obligation upon demand or notice.
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Master demand obligations are tax exempt municipal obligations that provide
for a periodic adjustment in the interest rate paid and permit daily changes in
the amount borrowed. The interest on such obligations is, in the opinion of
counsel for the borrower, excluded from gross income for federal income tax
purposes. For a description of the attributes of master demand obligations, see
"Money Market Instruments" above. Although there is no secondary market for
master demand obligations, such obligations are considered by each Fund to be
liquid because they are payable upon demand. The Funds have no specific
percentage limitations on investments in master demand obligations.
The Tax Exempt Money Market Fund may purchase securities of the type
described above if they have effective maturities within thirteen months. As
required by regulation of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"),
this means that on the date of acquisition the final stated maturity (or if
called for redemption, the redemption date) must be within thirteen months or
the maturity must be deemed to be no more than thirteen months because of a
maturity shortening mechanism, such as a variable interest rate, coupled with a
conditional or unconditional right to resell the investment to the issuer or a
third party. See "Variable Rate Demand Notes" and "Puts." A substantial
portion of the Tax Exempt Money Market Fund's portfolio is subject to maturity
shortening mechanisms consisting of variable interest rates coupled with
unconditional rights to resell the securities to the issuers either directly or
by drawing on a domestic or foreign bank letter of credit or other credit
support arrangement. See "Foreign Investments."
PUTS. The Tax Exempt Money Market, Tax Exempt Bond and New York Total
Return Bond Funds may purchase without limit municipal bonds or notes together
with the right to resell the bonds or notes to the seller at an agreed price or
yield within a specified period prior to the maturity date of the bonds or
notes. Such a right to resell is commonly known as a "put." The aggregate
price for bonds or notes with puts may be higher than the price for bonds or
notes without puts. Consistent with each Fund's investment objective and
subject to the supervision of the Trustees, the purpose of this practice is to
permit each Fund to be fully invested in tax exempt securities while preserving
the necessary liquidity to purchase securities on a when-issued basis, to meet
unusually large redemptions, and to purchase at a later date securities other
than those subject to the put. The principal risk of puts is that the writer of
the put may default on its obligation to repurchase. The Advisor will monitor
each writer's ability to meet its obligations under puts.
Puts may be exercised prior to the expiration date in order to fund
obligations to purchase other securities or to meet redemption requests. These
obligations may arise during periods in which proceeds from sales of Fund shares
and from recent sales of portfolio securities are insufficient to meet
obligations or when the funds available are otherwise allocated for investment.
In addition, puts may be exercised prior to the expiration date in order to take
advantage of alternative investment opportunities or in the event the Advisor
revises its evaluation of the creditworthiness of the issuer of the underlying
security. In determining whether to exercise puts prior to their expiration
date and in selecting which puts to exercise, the Advisor considers the amount
of cash available to each Fund, the expiration dates of the available puts, any
future commitments for securities purchases, alternative investment
opportunities, the desirability of retaining the underlying securities in each
Fund's portfolio and the yield, quality and maturity dates of the underlying
securities.
The Tax Exempt Money Market Fund values any municipal bonds and notes which
are subject to puts at amortized cost. No value is assigned to the put. The
cost of any such put is carried as an unrealized loss from the time of purchase
until it is exercised or expires. The Tax Exempt Bond and New York Total Return
Bond Funds value any municipal bonds and notes subject to puts with remaining
maturities of less than 60 days by the amortized cost method. If the Tax Exempt
Bond and New York Total Return Bond Funds were to invest in municipal bonds and
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notes with maturities of 60 days or more that are subject to puts separate from
the underlying securities, the puts and the underlying securities would be
valued at fair value as determined in accordance with procedures established by
the Board of Trustees. The Board of Trustees would, in connection with the
determination of the value of a put, consider, among other factors, the
creditworthiness of the writer of the put, the duration of the put, the dates on
which or the periods during which the put may be exercised and the applicable
rules and regulations of the SEC. Prior to investing in such securities, the
Tax Exempt Bond and New York Total Return Bond Funds, if deemed necessary based
upon the advice of counsel, will apply to the SEC for an exemptive order, which
may not be granted, relating to the valuation of such securities.
Since the value of the put is partly dependent on the ability of the put
writer to meet its obligation to repurchase, each Fund's policy is to enter into
put transactions only with municipal securities dealers who are approved by the
Advisor. Each dealer will be approved on its own merits, and it is each Fund's
general policy to enter into put transactions only with those dealers which are
determined to present minimal credit risks. In connection with such
determination, the Trustees will review regularly the Advisor's list of approved
dealers, taking into consideration, among other things, the ratings, if
available, of their equity and debt securities, their reputation in the
municipal securities markets, their net worth, their efficiency in consummating
transactions and any collateral arrangements, such as letters of credit,
securing the puts written by them. Commercial bank dealers normally will be
members of the Federal Reserve System, and other dealers will be members of the
National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. or members of a national
securities exchange. In the case of the Tax Exempt Bond and New York Total
Return Bond Funds, other put writers will have outstanding debt rated Aa or
better by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. ("Moody's") or AA or better by
Standard & Poor's Ratings Group ("Standard & Poor's"), or will be of comparable
quality in the Advisor's opinion or such put writers' obligations will be
collateralized and of comparable quality in the Advisor's opinion. The Trustees
have directed the Advisor not to enter into put transactions with any dealer
which in the judgment of the Advisor becomes more than a minimal credit risk.
In the event that a dealer should default on its obligation to repurchase an
underlying security, the Funds are unable to predict whether all or any portion
of any loss sustained could subsequently be recovered from such dealer.
The Trust has been advised by counsel that the Funds will be considered the
owner of the securities subject to the puts so that the interest on the
securities is tax exempt income to the Funds. Such advice of counsel is based
on certain assumptions concerning the terms of the puts and the attendant
circumstances.
EQUITY INVESTMENTS
As discussed in the Prospectus, the Portfolios for the Equity, Capital
Appreciation, International Equity, Emerging Markets Equity, International
Opportunities, European Equity, Japan Equity and Asia Growth Funds and the
equity portion of the Diversified Fund (collectively, the "Equity Portfolios")
invest primarily in Equity Securities. The Equity Securities in which the
Equity Portfolios invest include those listed on any domestic or foreign
securities exchange or traded in the over-the-counter (OTC) market as well as
certain restricted or unlisted securities. A discussion of the various types of
equity investments which may be purchased by these Portfolios appears in the
Prospectus and below. See "Quality and Diversification Requirements."
EQUITY SECURITIES. The Equity Securities in which the Equity Portfolios
may invest may or may not pay dividends and may or may not carry voting rights.
Common stock occupies the most junior position in a company's capital structure.
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The convertible securities in which the Equity Portfolios may invest
include any debt securities or preferred stock which may be converted into
common stock or which carry the right to purchase common stock. Convertible
securities entitle the holder to exchange the securities for a specified number
of shares of common stock, usually of the same company, at specified prices
within a certain period of time.
The terms of any convertible security determine its ranking in a company's
capital structure. In the case of subordinated convertible debentures, the
holders' claims on assets and earnings are subordinated to the claims of other
creditors, and are senior to the claims of preferred and common shareholders.
In the case of convertible preferred stock, the holders' claims on assets and
earnings are subordinated to the claims of all creditors and are senior to the
claims of common shareholders.
COMMON STOCK WARRANTS
The Portfolios for the Equity, Capital Appreciation, International Equity,
Emerging Markets Equity, International Opportunities, Diversified, European
Equity, Japan Equity and Asia Growth Funds may invest in common stock warrants
that entitle the holder to buy common stock from the issuer of the warrant at a
specific price (the strike price) for a specific period of time. The market
price of warrants may be substantially lower than the current market price of
the underlying common stock, yet warrants are subject to similar price
fluctuations. As a result, warrants may be more volatile investments than the
underlying common stock.
Warrants generally do not entitle the holder to dividends or voting rights
with respect to the underlying common stock and do not represent any rights in
the assets of the issuer company. A warrant will expire worthless if it is not
exercised on or prior to the expiration date.
FOREIGN INVESTMENTS
The International Equity, Emerging Markets Equity, International
Opportunities, European Equity, Japan Equity and Asia Growth Funds make
substantial investments in foreign countries. The Money Market, Bond, Short
Term Bond, Equity, Capital Appreciation and Diversified Funds may invest in
certain foreign securities. The Short Term Bond Fund and the Bond Fund may
invest in dollar-denominated fixed income securities of foreign issuers. The
Equity Fund may invest in equity securities of foreign corporations included in
the S&P 500 Index or listed on a national securities exchange. The Capital
Appreciation Fund may invest in equity securities of foreign issuers that are
listed on a national securities exchange or denominated or principally traded in
the U.S. dollar. The Bond, Short Term Bond, Equity, Capital Appreciation and
Diversified Funds do not expect to invest more than 25%, 25%, 5%, 5% and 30%,
respectively, of their total assets at the time of purchase in securities of
foreign issuers. All investments of the Money Market Fund must be U.S.
dollar-denominated. In the case of the Money Market, Bond and Short Term Bond
Funds, any foreign commercial paper must not be subject to foreign withholding
tax at the time of purchase. Foreign investments may be made directly in
securities of foreign issuers or in the form of American Depositary Receipts
("ADRs") and European Depositary Receipts ("EDRs"). Generally, ADRs and EDRs
are receipts issued by a bank or trust company that evidence ownership of
underlying securities issued by a foreign corporation and that are designed for
use in the domestic, in the case of ADRs, or European, in the case of EDRs,
securities markets.
Since investments in foreign securities may involve foreign currencies, the
value of a Fund's assets as measured in U.S. dollars may be affected favorably
or unfavorably by changes in currency rates and in exchange control regulations,
including currency blockage. The Equity, Capital Appreciation, International
Equity, Emerging Markets Equity, International Opportunities, Diversified,
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European Equity, Japan Equity and Asia Growth Funds may enter into forward
commitments for the purchase or sale of foreign currencies in connection with
the settlement of foreign securities transactions or to manage the Funds'
currency exposure related to foreign investments as described in the Prospectus.
The International Equity, Emerging Markets Equity, International
Opportunities and Asia Growth Funds may also invest in countries with emerging
economies or securities markets. Political and economic structures in many of
such countries may be undergoing significant evolution and rapid development,
and such countries may lack the social, political and economic stability
characteristic of more developed countries. Certain of such countries may have
in the past failed to recognize private property rights and have at times
nationalized or expropriated the assets of private companies. As a result, the
risks described above, including the risks of nationalization or expropriation
of assets, may be heightened. In addition, unanticipated political or social
developments may affect the values of a Fund's investments in those countries
and the availability to such Fund of additional investments in those countries.
The small size and inexperience of the securities markets in certain of such
countries and the limited volume of trading in securities in those countries may
make a Fund's investments in such countries illiquid and more volatile than
investments in more developed countries, and such Fund may be required to
establish special custodial or other arrangements before making certain
investments in those countries. There may be little financial or accounting
information available with respect to issuers located in certain of such
countries, and it may be difficult as a result to assess the value or prospects
of an investment in such issuers.
For a description of the risks associated with investing in foreign
securities, see "Additional Investment Information and Risk Factors" in the
Prospectus. To the extent that the Tax Exempt Money Market, Tax Exempt Bond and
New York Total Return Bond Funds invest in municipal bonds and notes backed by
credit support arrangements with foreign financial institutions, the risks
associated with investing in foreign securities may be relevant to these Funds.
INVESTING IN JAPAN. Investing in Japanese securities may involve the risks
associated with investing in foreign securities generally. In addition, because
the Japan Equity, International Equity, and International Opportunities
Portfolios invest in Japan, they will be subject to the general economic and
political conditions in Japan. It is not expected that the Asia Growth
Portfolio will invest in Japan (see "Investment Objective and Policies" in the
Prospectus).
Share prices of companies listed on Japanese stock exchanges and on the
Japanese OTC market reached historical peaks (which were later referred to as
the "bubble") as well as historically high trading volumes in 1989 and 1990.
Since then, stock prices in both markets decreased significantly. There can be
no assurance that additional market corrections will not occur.
The common stocks of many Japanese companies continue to trade at high
price earnings ratios in comparison with those in the United States, even after
the recent market decline. Differences in accounting methods make it difficult
to compare the earnings of Japanese companies with those of companies in other
countries, especially the United States.
Since the Japan Equity, International Equity and International
Opportunities Portfolios invest in securities denominated in yen, changes in
exchange rates between the U.S. dollar and the yen affect the U.S. dollar value
of their respective assets. Although the Japanese economy has grown
substantially over the past four decades, recently the rate of growth had slowed
substantially. See "Foreign Currency Exchange Transactions."
Japan's success in exporting its products has generated a sizeable trade
surplus. Such trade surplus has caused tensions at times between Japan and some
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of its trading partners. In particular, Japan's trade relations with the United
States have recently been the subject of discussion and negotiation between the
two nations. The United States has imposed certain measures designed to address
trade issues in specific industries. These measures and similar measures in the
future may adversely affect the performance of the Japan Equity, International
Equity and International Opportunities Portfolios.
Japan's economy has typically exhibited low inflation and low interest
rates. There can be no assurance that low inflation and low interest rates will
continue, and it is likely that a reversal of such factors would adversely
affect the Japanese economy. Moreover, the Japanese economy may differ,
favorably or unfavorably, from the U.S. economy in such respects as growth of
gross national product, rate of inflation, capital reinvestment, resources,
self-sufficiency and balance of payments position.
Japan has a parliamentary form of government. In 1993 a coalition
government was formed which, for the first time since 1955, did not include the
Liberal Democratic Party. Since mid-1993, there have been several changes in
leadership in Japan. What, if any, effect the current political situation will
have on prospective regulatory reforms of the economy in Japan cannot be
predicted. Recent and future developments in Japan and neighboring Asian
countries may lead to changes in policy that might adversely affect these
Portfolios.
ADDITIONAL INVESTMENTS
WHEN-ISSUED AND DELAYED DELIVERY SECURITIES. Each of the Portfolios may
purchase securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis. For example,
delivery of and payment for these securities can take place a month or more
after the date of the purchase commitment. The purchase price and the interest
rate payable, if any, on the securities are fixed on the purchase commitment
date or at the time the settlement date is fixed. The value of such securities
is subject to market fluctuation and for money market instruments and other
fixed income securities no interest accrues to a Portfolio until settlement
takes place. At the time a Portfolio makes the commitment to purchase
securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis, it will record the
transaction, reflect the value each day of such securities in determining its
net asset value and, if applicable, calculate the maturity for the purposes of
average maturity from that date. At the time of settlement a when-issued
security may be valued at less than the purchase price. To facilitate such
acquisitions, each Portfolio will maintain with the Custodian a segregated
account with liquid assets, consisting of cash, U.S. Government securities or
other appropriate securities, in an amount at least equal to such commitments.
On delivery dates for such transactions, each Portfolio will meet its
obligations from maturities or sales of the securities held in the segregated
account and/or from cash flow. If a Portfolio chooses to dispose of the right
to acquire a when-issued security prior to its acquisition, it could, as with
the disposition of any other portfolio obligation, incur a gain or loss due to
market fluctuation. It is the current policy of each Portfolio (excluding
the International Opportunities Portfolio) not to enter into when-issued
commitments exceeding in the aggregate 15% of the market value of the
Portfolio's total assets, less liabilities other than the obligations created by
when-issued commitments.
INVESTMENT COMPANY SECURITIES. Securities of other investment companies
may be acquired by each of the Funds and their corresponding Portfolios to the
extent permitted under the 1940 Act. These limits require that, as determined
immediately after a purchase is made, (i) not more than 5% of the value of a
Fund's total assets will be invested in the securities of any one investment
company, (ii) not more than 10% of the value of its total assets will be
invested in the aggregate in securities of investment companies as a group, and
(iii) not more than 3% of the outstanding voting stock of any one investment
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company will be owned by a Fund, provided however, that a Fund may invest all of
its investable assets in an open-end investment company that has the same
investment objective as the Fund (its corresponding Portfolio). As a
shareholder of another investment company, a Fund or Portfolio would bear, along
with other shareholders, its PRO RATA portion of the other investment company's
expenses, including advisory fees. These expenses would be in addition to the
advisory and other expenses that a Fund or Portfolio bears directly in
connection with its own operations.
REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS. Each of the Portfolios may enter into
reverse repurchase agreements. In a reverse repurchase agreement, a Portfolio
sells a security and agrees to repurchase the same security at a mutually agreed
upon date and price. The Portfolio for the Treasury Money Market Fund will only
enter into reverse repurchase agreements involving Treasury securities. For
purposes of the 1940 Act a reverse repurchase agreement is also considered as
the borrowing of money by the Portfolio and, therefore, a form of leverage. The
Portfolios will invest the proceeds of borrowings under reverse repurchase
agreements. In addition, a Portfolio will enter into a reverse repurchase
agreement only when the interest income to be earned from the investment of the
proceeds is greater than the interest expense of the transaction. A Portfolio
will not invest the proceeds of a reverse repurchase agreement for a period
which exceeds the duration of the reverse repurchase agreement. Each Portfolio
will establish and maintain with the Custodian a separate account with a
segregated portfolio of securities in an amount at least equal to its purchase
obligations under its reverse repurchase agreements. If interest rates rise
during the term of a reverse repurchase agreement, entering into the reverse
repurchase agreement may have a negative impact on the Money Market, Tax Exempt
Money Market and Treasury Money Market Funds' ability to maintain a net asset
value of $1.00 per share. See "Investment Restrictions" for each Portfolio's
limitations on reverse repurchase agreements and bank borrowings.
MORTGAGE DOLLAR ROLL TRANSACTIONS. The Portfolios for the Short Term Bond
Fund and the Bond Fund may engage in mortgage dollar roll transactions with
respect to mortgage securities issued by the Government National Mortgage
Association, the Federal National Mortgage Association and the Federal Home Loan
Mortgage Corporation. In a mortgage dollar roll transaction, the Portfolio
sells a mortgage backed security and simultaneously agrees to repurchase a
similar security on a specified future date at an agreed upon price. During the
roll period, the Portfolio will not be entitled to receive any interest or
principal paid on the securities sold. The Portfolio is compensated for the
lost interest on the securities sold by the difference between the sales price
and the lower price for the future repurchase as well as by the interest earned
on the reinvestment of the sales proceeds. The Portfolio may also be
compensated by receipt of a commitment fee. When the Portfolio enters into a
mortgage dollar roll transaction, liquid assets in an amount sufficient to pay
for the future repurchase are segregated with the Custodian. Mortgage dollar
roll transactions are considered reverse repurchase agreements for purposes of
the Portfolio's investment restrictions.
LOANS OF PORTFOLIO SECURITIES. Each of the Portfolios may lend its
securities if such loans are secured continuously by cash or equivalent
collateral or by a letter of credit in favor of the Portfolio at least equal at
all times to 100% of the market value of the securities loaned, plus accrued
interest. While such securities are on loan, the borrower will pay the
Portfolio any income accruing thereon. Loans will be subject to termination by
the Portfolios in the normal settlement time, generally three business days
after notice, or by the borrower on one day's notice. Borrowed securities must
be returned when the loan is terminated. Any gain or loss in the market price
of the borrowed securities which occurs during the term of the loan inures to a
Portfolio and its respective investors. The Portfolios may pay reasonable
finders' and custodial fees in connection with a loan. In addition, a Portfolio
will consider all facts and circumstances including the creditworthiness of the
borrowing financial institution, and no Portfolio will make any loans in excess
of one year. The Portfolios will not lend their securities to any officer,
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Trustee, Director, employee or other affiliate of the Portfolios, the Advisor or
the Distributor, unless otherwise permitted by applicable law.
PRIVATELY PLACED AND CERTAIN UNREGISTERED SECURITIES. The Portfolios for
each of the Funds (except the Treasury Money Market Fund) may invest in
privately placed, restricted, Rule 144A or other unregistered securities as
described in the Prospectus.
As to illiquid investments, a Portfolio is subject to a risk that should
the Portfolio decide to sell them when a ready buyer is not available at a price
the Portfolio deems representative of their value, the value of the Portfolio's
net assets could be adversely affected. Where an illiquid security must be
registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the "1933 Act") before
it may be sold, a Portfolio may be obligated to pay all or part of the
registration expenses, and a considerable period may elapse between the time of
the decision to sell and the time the Portfolio may be permitted to sell a
security under an effective registration statement. If, during such a period,
adverse market conditions were to develop, a Portfolio might obtain a less
favorable price than prevailed when it decided to sell.
SYNTHETIC VARIABLE RATE INSTRUMENTS. The Portfolios for the Tax Exempt
Bond, New York Total Return Bond and Tax Exempt Money Market Funds may invest in
certain synthetic variable rate instruments as described in the Prospectus. In
the case of some types of instruments credit enhancement is not provided, and if
certain events, which may include (a) default in the payment of principal or
interest on the underlying bond, (b) downgrading of the bond below investment
grade or (c) a loss of the bond's tax exempt status, occur, then (i) the put
will terminate, (ii) the risk to a Fund will be that of holding a long-term
bond, and (iii) in the case of the Tax Exempt Money Market Fund, the disposition
of the bond may be required which could be at a loss.
QUALITY AND DIVERSIFICATION REQUIREMENTS
Each of the Funds, except the New York Total Return Bond and Japan Equity
Funds, intends to meet the diversification requirements of the 1940 Act. To
meet these requirements, 75% of the assets of these Funds is subject to the
following fundamental limitations: (1) the Fund may not invest more than 5% of
its total assets in the securities of any one issuer, except obligations of the
U.S. Government, its agencies and instrumentalities, and (2) the Fund may not
own more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of any one issuer. As
for the other 25% of the Fund's assets not subject to the limitation described
above, there is no limitation on investment of these assets under the 1940 Act,
so that all of such assets may be invested in securities of any one issuer,
subject to the limitation of any applicable state securities laws, or with
respect to the Money Market, Tax Exempt Money Market and Treasury Money Market
Funds, as described below. Investments not subject to the limitations described
above could involve an increased risk to a Fund should an issuer, or a state or
its related entities, be unable to make interest or principal payments or should
the market value of such securities decline.
Although the New York Total Return Bond and Japan Equity Funds are not
limited by the diversification requirements of the 1940 Act, these Funds (and
the other Funds) will comply with the diversification requirements imposed by
the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), for qualification as
a regulated investment company. See "Taxes."
With respect to the Tax Exempt Money Market and Tax Exempt Bond Funds, for
purposes of diversification and concentration under the 1940 Act, identification
of the issuer of municipal bonds or notes depends on the terms and conditions of
the obligation. With respect to the New York Total Return Bond Fund, for
purposes of diversification under the Code and concentration under the 1940 Act,
identification of the issuer of municipal bonds or notes also depends on the
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terms and conditions of the obligation. If the assets and revenues of an
agency, authority, instrumentality or other political subdivision are separate
from those of the government creating the subdivision and the obligation is
backed only by the assets and revenues of the subdivision, such subdivision is
regarded as the sole issuer. Similarly, in the case of an industrial
development revenue bond or pollution control revenue bond, if the bond is
backed only by the assets and revenues of the nongovernmental user, the
nongovernmental user is regarded as the sole issuer. If in either case the
creating government or another entity guarantees an obligation, the guaranty is
regarded as a separate security and treated as an issue of such guarantor.
Since securities issued or guaranteed by states or municipalities are not voting
securities, there is no limitation on the percentage of a single issuer's
securities which a Fund may own so long as it does not invest more than 5% of
its total assets that are subject to the diversification limitation in the
securities of such issuer, except obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S.
Government. Consequently, the Funds may invest in a greater percentage of the
outstanding securities of a single issuer than would an investment company which
invests in voting securities. See "Investment Restrictions."
MONEY MARKET FUND. In order to attain the Money Market Fund's objective of
maintaining a stable net asset value, the Portfolio for the Money Market Fund
will (i) limit its investment in the securities (other than U.S. Government
securities) of any one issuer to no more than 5% of its assets, measured at the
time of purchase, except for investments held for not more than three business
days (subject, however, to the investment restriction No. 4 set forth under
"Investment Restrictions" below); and (ii) limit investments to securities that
present minimal credit risks and securities (other than U.S. Government
securities) that are rated within the highest short-term rating category by at
least two nationally recognized statistical rating organizations ("NRSROs") or
by the only NRSRO that has rated the security. Securities which originally had
a maturity of over one year are subject to more complicated, but generally
similar rating requirements. A description of illustrative credit ratings is
set forth in "Appendix A." The Portfolio may also purchase unrated securities
that are of comparable quality to the rated securities described above.
Additionally, if the issuer of a particular security has issued other securities
of comparable priority and security and which have been rated in accordance with
(ii) above, that security will be deemed to have the same rating as such other
rated securities.
In addition, the Board of Trustees has adopted procedures which (i) require
the Board of Trustees to approve or ratify purchases by the Portfolio of
securities (other than U.S. Government securities) that are rated by only one
NRSRO or that are unrated; (ii) require the Portfolio to maintain a
dollar-weighted average portfolio maturity of not more than 90 days and to
invest only in securities with a remaining maturity of not more than thirteen
months; and (iii) require the Portfolio, in the event of certain downgradings of
or defaults on portfolio holdings, to dispose of the holding, subject in certain
circumstances to a finding by the Trustees that disposing of the holding would
not be in the Portfolio's best interest.
TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET FUND. In order to attain the Tax Exempt Money
Market Fund's objective of maintaining a stable net asset value, the Portfolio
for the Tax Exempt Money Market Fund will limit its investments to securities
that present minimal credit risks and securities (other than New York State
municipal notes) that are rated within the highest rating assigned to short-term
debt securities (or, in the case of New York State municipal notes, within one
of the two highest ratings assigned to short-term debt securities) by at least
two NRSROs or by the only NRSRO that has rated the security. Securities which
originally had a maturity of over one year are subject to more complicated, but
generally similar rating requirements. The Portfolio may also purchase unrated
securities that are of comparable quality to the rated securities described
above. Additionally, if the issuer of a particular security has issued other
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securities of comparable priority and security and which have been rated in
accordance with the criteria described above that security will be deemed to
have the same rating as such other rated securities.
In addition, the Board of Trustees has adopted procedures which (i) require
the Portfolio to maintain a dollar-weighted average portfolio maturity of not
more than 90 days and to invest only in securities with a remaining maturity of
not more than thirteen months and (ii) require the Portfolio, in the event of
certain downgrading of or defaults on portfolio holdings, to dispose of the
holding, subject in certain circumstances to a finding by the Trustees that
disposing of the holding would not be in the Portfolio's best interest.
The credit quality of variable rate demand notes and other municipal
obligations is frequently enhanced by various credit support arrangements with
domestic or foreign financial institutions, such as letters of credit,
guarantees and insurance, and these arrangements are considered when investment
quality is evaluated. The rating of credit-enhanced municipal obligations by a
NRSRO may be based primarily or exclusively on the credit support arrangement.
TREASURY MONEY MARKET FUND. In order to attain its objective of
maintaining a stable net asset value, the Treasury Money Market Fund will limit
its investments to direct obligations of the U.S. Treasury, including Treasury
bills, notes and bonds, and certain U.S. Government securities with remaining
maturities of thirteen months or less at the time of purchase and will maintain
a dollar-weighted average portfolio maturity of not more than 90 days.
SHORT TERM BOND, BOND, AND DIVERSIFIED FUNDS. The Short Term Bond and Bond
Funds and the fixed income portion of the Diversified Fund invest principally in
a diversified portfolio of "high grade" and "investment grade" securities.
Investment grade debt is rated, on the date of investment, within the four
highest ratings of Moody's, currently Aaa, Aa, A and Baa, or of Standard &
Poor's, currently AAA, AA, A and BBB. High grade debt is rated, on the date of
the investment, within the two highest of such ratings. The Bond Fund may also
invest up to 5% of its total assets in securities which are "below investment
grade." Such securities must be rated, on the date of investment, Ba by Moody's
or BB by Standard & Poor's. The Funds may invest in debt securities which are
not rated or other debt securities to which these ratings are not applicable, if
in the opinion of the Advisor, such securities are of comparable quality to the
rated securities discussed above. In addition, at the time the Funds invest in
any commercial paper, bank obligation or repurchase agreement, the issuer must
have outstanding debt rated A or higher by Moody's or Standard & Poor's, the
issuer's parent corporation, if any, must have outstanding commercial paper
rated Prime-1 by Moody's or A-1 by Standard & Poor's, or if no such ratings are
available, the investment must be of comparable quality in the Advisor's
opinion.
TAX EXEMPT BOND FUND. The Tax Exempt Bond Fund invests principally in a
diversified portfolio of "high grade" and "investment grade" tax exempt
securities. On the date of investment (i) municipal bonds must be rated within
the three highest ratings of Moody's, currently Aaa, Aa and A, or of Standard &
Poor's, currently AAA, AA, and A, (ii) municipal notes must be rated MIG-1 by
Moody's or SP-1 by Standard & Poor's (or, in the case of New York State
municipal notes, MIG-1 or MIG-2 by Moody's or SP-1 or SP-2 by Standard & Poor's)
and (iii) municipal commercial paper must be rated Prime-1 by Moody's or A-1 by
Standard & Poor's or, if not rated by either Moody's or Standard & Poor's,
issued by an issuer either (a) having an outstanding debt issue rated A or
higher by Moody's or Standard & Poor's or (b) having comparable quality in the
opinion of the Advisor. The Fund may invest in other tax exempt securities
which are not rated if, in the opinion of the Advisor, such securities are of
comparable quality to the rated securities discussed above. In addition, at the
time the Fund invests in any commercial paper, bank obligation or repurchase
agreement, the issuer must have outstanding debt rated A or higher by Moody's or
Standard & Poor's, the issuer's parent corporation, if any, must have
outstanding commercial paper rated
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Prime-1 by Moody's or A-1 by Standard & Poor's, or if no such ratings are
available, the investment must be of comparable quality in the Advisor's
opinion.
NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND. The New York Total Return Bond Fund
invests principally in a diversified portfolio of "investment grade" tax exempt
securities. An investment grade bond is rated, on the date of investment within
the four highest ratings of Moody's, currently Aaa, Aa, A and Baa or of Standard
& Poor's, currently AAA, AA, A and BBB, while high grade debt is rated, on the
date of the investment within the two highest of such ratings. Investment grade
municipal notes are rated, on the date of investment, MIG-1 or MIG-2 by Standard
& Poor's or SP-1 and SP-2 by Moody's. Investment grade municipal commercial
paper is rated, on the date of investment, Prime 1 or Prime 2 by Moody's and A-1
or A-2 by Standard & Poor's. The New York Total Return Bond Fund may also
invest up to 5% of its total assets in securities which are "below investment
grade." Such securities must be rated, on the date of investment, Ba by Moody's
or BB by Standard & Poor's. The New York Total Return Bond Fund may invest in
debt securities which are not rated or other debt securities to which these
ratings are not applicable, if in the opinion of the Advisor, such securities
are of comparable quality to the rated securities discussed above. In addition,
at the time the Fund invests in any taxable commercial paper, bank obligation or
repurchase agreement, the issuer must have outstanding debt rated A or higher by
Moody's or Standard & Poor's, the issuer's parent corporation, if any, must have
outstanding commercial paper rated Prime-1 by Moody's or A-1 by Standard &
Poor's, or if no such ratings are available, the investment must be of
comparable quality in the Advisor's opinion.
EQUITY, CAPITAL APPRECIATION, INTERNATIONAL EQUITY, EMERGING MARKETS
EQUITY, INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES, DIVERSIFIED, EUROPEAN EQUITY, JAPAN EQUITY
AND ASIA GROWTH FUNDS. The Equity, Capital Appreciation, International Equity,
Emerging Markets Equity, International Opportunities, Diversified, European
Equity, Japan Equity and Asia Growth Funds may invest in convertible debt
securities, for which there are no specific quality requirements. In addition,
at the time a Fund invests in any commercial paper, bank obligation or
repurchase agreement, the issuer must have outstanding debt rated A or higher by
Moody's or Standard & Poor's, the issuer's parent corporation, if any, must have
outstanding commercial paper rated Prime-1 by Moody's or A-1 by Standard &
Poor's, or if no such ratings are available, the investment must be of
comparable quality in the Advisor's opinion. At the time a Fund invests in any
other short-term debt securities, they must be rated A or higher by Moody's or
Standard & Poor's, or if unrated, the investment must be of comparable quality
in the Advisor's opinion.
In determining suitability of investment in a particular unrated security,
the Advisor takes into consideration asset and debt service coverage, the
purpose of the financing, history of the issuer, existence of other rated
securities of the issuer, and other relevant conditions, such as comparability
to other issuers.
OPTIONS AND FUTURES TRANSACTIONS
EXCHANGE TRADED AND OTC OPTIONS. All options purchased or sold by the
Portfolios will be traded on a securities exchange or will be purchased or sold
by securities dealers (OTC options) that meet creditworthiness standards
approved by the Portfolio's Board of Trustees. While exchange-traded options
are obligations of the Options Clearing Corporation, in the case of OTC options,
a Portfolio relies on the dealer from which it purchased the option to perform
if the option is exercised. Thus, when a Portfolio purchases an OTC option, it
relies on the dealer from which it purchased the option to make or take delivery
of the underlying securities. Failure by the dealer to do so would result in
the loss of the premium paid by the Portfolio as well as loss of the expected
benefit of the transaction.
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Provided that a Portfolio has arrangements with certain qualified dealers
who agree that the Portfolio may repurchase any option it writes for a maximum
price to be calculated by a predetermined formula, a Portfolio may treat the
underlying securities used to cover written OTC options as liquid. In these
cases, the OTC option itself would only be considered illiquid to the extent
that the maximum repurchase price under the formula exceeds the intrinsic value
of the option.
FUTURES CONTRACTS AND OPTIONS ON FUTURES CONTRACTS. The Portfolios permitted to
enter into futures and options transactions may purchase or sell (write) futures
contracts and purchase put and call options, including put and call options on
futures contracts. In addition, the Portfolios for the Emerging Markets Equity,
International Opportunities, Diversified, European Equity, Japan Equity and Asia
Growth Funds may sell (write) put and call options, including options on
futures. Futures contracts obligate the buyer to take and the seller to make
delivery at a future date of a specified quantity of a financial instrument or
an amount of cash based on the value of a securities index. Currently, futures
contracts are available on various types of fixed income securities, including
but not limited to U.S. Treasury bonds, notes and bills, Eurodollar certificates
of deposit and on indexes of fixed income securities and indexes of equity
securities.
Unlike a futures contract, which requires the parties to buy and sell a
security or make a cash settlement payment based on changes in a financial
instrument or securities index on an agreed date, an option on a futures
contract entitles its holder to decide on or before a future date whether to
enter into such a contract. If the holder decides not to exercise its option,
the holder may close out the option position by entering into an offsetting
transaction or may decide to let the option expire and forfeit the premium
thereon. The purchaser of an option on a futures contract pays a premium for
the option but makes no initial margin payments or daily payments of cash in the
nature of "variation" margin payments to reflect the change in the value of the
underlying contract as does a purchaser or seller of a futures contract.
The seller of an option on a futures contract receives the premium paid by
the purchaser and may be required to pay initial margin. Amounts equal to the
initial margin and any additional collateral required on any options on futures
contracts sold by a Portfolio are paid by the Portfolio into a segregated
account, in the name of the Futures Commission Merchant, as required by the
1940 Act and the SEC's interpretations thereunder.
COMBINED POSITIONS. The Portfolios permitted to purchase and write options may
do so in combination with each other, or in combination with futures or forward
contracts, to adjust the risk and return characteristics of the overall
position. For example, certain Portfolios may purchase a put option and write a
call option on the same underlying instrument, in order to construct a combined
position whose risk and return characteristics are similar to selling a futures
contract. Another possible combined position would involve writing a call
option at one strike price and buying a call option at a lower price, in order
to reduce the risk of the written call option in the event of a substantial
price increase. Because combined options positions involve multiple trades,
they result in higher transaction costs and may be more difficult to open and
close out.
CORRELATION OF PRICE CHANGES. Because there are a limited number of types of
exchange-traded options and futures contracts, it is likely that the
standardized options and futures contracts available will not match a
Portfolio's current or anticipated investments exactly. A Portfolio may invest
in options and futures contracts based on securities with different issuers,
maturities, or other characteristics from the securities in which it typically
invests, which involves a risk that the options or futures position will not
track the performance of the Portfolio's other investments.
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Options and futures contracts prices can also diverge from the prices of
their underlying instruments, even if the underlying instruments match the
Portfolio's investments well. Options and futures contracts prices are affected
by such factors as current and anticipated short term interest rates, changes in
volatility of the underlying instrument, and the time remaining until expiration
of the contract, which may not affect security prices the same way. Imperfect
correlation may also result from differing levels of demand in the options and
futures markets and the securities markets, from structural differences in how
options and futures and securities are traded, or from imposition of daily price
fluctuation limits or trading halts. A Portfolio may purchase or sell options
and futures contracts with a greater or lesser value than the securities it
wishes to hedge or intends to purchase in order to attempt to compensate for
differences in volatility between the contract and the securities, although this
may not be successful in all cases. If price changes in a Portfolio's options
or futures positions are poorly correlated with its other investments, the
positions may fail to produce anticipated gains or result in losses that are not
offset by gains in other investments.
LIQUIDITY OF OPTIONS AND FUTURES CONTRACTS. There is no assurance a liquid
market will exist for any particular option or futures contract at any
particular time even if the contract is traded on an exchange. In addition,
exchanges may establish daily price fluctuation limits for options and futures
contracts and may halt trading if a contract's price moves up or down more than
the limit in a given day. On volatile trading days when the price fluctuation
limit is reached or a trading halt is imposed, it may be impossible for a
Portfolio to enter into new positions or close out existing positions. If the
market for a contract is not liquid because of price fluctuation limits or
otherwise, it could prevent prompt liquidation of unfavorable positions, and
could potentially require a Portfolio to continue to hold a position until
delivery or expiration regardless of changes in its value. As a result, the
Portfolio's access to other assets held to cover its options or futures
positions could also be impaired. (See "Exchange Traded and OTC Options" above
for a discussion of the liquidity of options not traded on an exchange.)
POSITION LIMITS. Futures exchanges can limit the number of futures and options
on futures contracts that can be held or controlled by an entity. If an
adequate exemption cannot be obtained, a Portfolio or the Advisor may be
required to reduce the size of its futures and options positions or may not be
able to trade a certain futures or options contract in order to avoid exceeding
such limits.
ASSET COVERAGE FOR FUTURES CONTRACTS AND OPTIONS POSITIONS. The Portfolios
intend to comply with Section 4.5 of the regulations under the Commodity
Exchange Act, which limits the extent to which a Portfolio can commit assets to
initial margin deposits and option premiums. In addition, the Portfolios will
comply with guidelines established by the SEC with respect to coverage of
options and futures contracts by mutual funds, and if the guidelines so require,
will set aside appropriate liquid assets in a segregated custodial account in
the amount prescribed. Securities held in a segregated account cannot be sold
while the futures contract or option is outstanding, unless they are replaced
with other suitable assets. As a result, there is a possibility that
segregation of a large percentage of a Portfolio's assets could impede portfolio
management or the Portfolio's ability to meet redemption requests or other
current obligations.
RISK MANAGEMENT
The Portfolios for the New York Total Return Bond, Diversified, Emerging
Markets Equity, International Opportunities, European Equity, Japan Equity and
Asia Growth Funds may employ non-hedging risk management techniques. Examples
of risk management strategies include synthetically altering the duration of a
portfolio or the mix of securities in a portfolio. For example, if the Advisor
wishes to extend maturities in a fixed income portfolio in order to take
advantage of an anticipated decline in interest rates, but does not wish to
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purchase the underlying long term securities, it might cause the Portfolio to
purchase futures contracts on long term debt securities. Similarly, if the
Advisor wishes to decrease fixed income securities or purchase equities, it
could cause the Portfolio to sell futures contracts on debt securities and
purchase futures contracts on a stock index. Such non-hedging risk management
techniques are not speculative, but because they involve leverage include, as do
all leveraged transactions, the possibility of losses as well as gains that are
greater than if these techniques involved the purchase and sale of the
securities themselves rather than their synthetic derivatives.
SPECIAL FACTORS AFFECTING THE NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND. The New York
Total Return Bond Fund intends to invest a high proportion of its assets in
municipal obligations of the State of New York and its political subdivisions,
municipalities, agencies, instrumentalities and public authorities. Payment of
interest and preservation of principal is dependent upon the continuing ability
of New York issuers and/or obligors of state, municipal and public authority
debt obligations to meet their obligations thereunder.
The fiscal stability of New York State is related, at least in part, to the
fiscal stability of its localities and authorities. Various State agencies,
authorities and localities have issued large amounts of bonds and notes either
guaranteed or supported by the State through lease-purchase arrangements, other
contractual arrangements or moral obligation provisions. While debt service is
normally paid out of revenues generated by projects of such State agencies,
authorities and localities, the State has had to provide special assistance in
the past, in some cases of a recurring nature, to enable such agencies,
authorities and localities to meet their financial obligations and, in some
cases, to prevent or cure defaults. To the extent State agencies and local
governments require State assistance to meet their financial obligations, the
ability of the State to meet its own obligations as they become due or to obtain
additional financing could be adversely affected.
On July 10, 1995, Standard & Poor's downgraded its rating on New York
City's outstanding general obligation bonds to BBB+ from A-, citing the city's
chronic structural budget problems and weak economic outlook. Moody's currently
rates New York City general obligation bonds Baa-1. Factors contributing to
these ratings include the city's reliance on one-time revenue measures to close
annual budget gaps, a dependence on unrealized labor savings, overly optimistic
estimates of revenues and of state and federal aid, and the city's continued
high debt levels.
For further information concerning New York municipal obligations, see
"Appendix B." The summary set forth above and in "Appendix B" is included for
the purpose of providing a general description of New York State and New York
City credit and financial conditions. This summary is based on information from
an official statement of New York general obligation municipal obligations and
does not purport to be complete.
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
The table below sets forth the portfolio turnover rates for the Portfolios
corresponding to the Funds. A rate of 100% indicates that the equivalent of all
of the Portfolio's assets have been sold and reinvested in a year. High
portfolio turnover may result in the realization of substantial net capital
gains or losses. To the extent net short term capital gains are realized, any
distributions resulting from such gains are considered ordinary income for
federal income tax purposes. See "Taxes" below.
THE SHORT TERM BOND PORTFOLIO (SHORT TERM BOND FUND) -- For the fiscal year
ended October 31, 1994: 230%. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: 177%.
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THE TAX EXEMPT BOND PORTFOLIO (TAX EXEMPT BOND FUND) -- For the fiscal year
ended August 31, 1995: 47%. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1996: 25%.
THE NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND PORTFOLIO (NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND) --
For the period April 11, 1994 (commencement of operations) through March 31,
1995: 63%. For the fiscal year ended March 31, 1996: 41%.
THE U.S. FIXED INCOME PORTFOLIO (BOND FUND) -- For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1994: 234%. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: 293%.
THE SELECTED U.S. EQUITY PORTFOLIO (EQUITY FUND) -- For the fiscal year ended
May 31, 1995: 71%. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1996: 85%.
THE U.S. SMALL COMPANY PORTFOLIO (CAPITAL APPRECIATION FUND) -- For the fiscal
year ended May 31, 1995: 75%. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1996: 93%.
THE NON-U.S. EQUITY PORTFOLIO (INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND) -- For the fiscal year
ended October 31, 1994: 56%. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: 59%.
THE DIVERSIFIED PORTFOLIO (DIVERSIFIED FUND) -- For the fiscal year ended
June 30, 1995: 136%. For the fiscal year ended June 30, 1996: 144%.
THE EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY PORTFOLIO (EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND) -- For the
fiscal year ended October 31, 1994: 27%. For the fiscal year ended October 31,
1995: 41%.
THE EUROPEAN EQUITY PORTFOLIO (EUROPEAN EQUITY FUND) -- For the period March 28,
1995 (commencement of operations) through December 31, 1995: 36%. For the six
months ended June 30, 1996: 27% (unaudited).
THE JAPAN EQUITY PORTFOLIO (JAPAN EQUITY FUND) -- For the period March 28, 1995
(commencement of operations) through December 31, 1995: 60%. For the six months
ended June 30, 1996: 44% (unaudited).
THE ASIA GROWTH PORTFOLIO (ASIA GROWTH FUND) -- For the period April 5, 1995
(commencement of operations) through December 31, 1995: 70%. For the six months
ended June 30, 1996: 42% (unaudited).
The estimated annual portfolio turnover rate for each of the European
Equity, Japan Equity, Asia Growth and International Opportunities Portfolios
generally should not exceed 100%.
INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS
The investment restrictions of each Fund and its corresponding Portfolio
are identical, unless otherwise specified. Accordingly, references below to a
Fund also include the Fund's corresponding Portfolio unless the context requires
otherwise; similarly, references to a Portfolio also include its corresponding
Fund unless the context requires otherwise.
The investment restrictions below have been adopted by the Trust with
respect to each Fund and by each corresponding Portfolio. Except where
otherwise noted, these investment restrictions are "fundamental" policies which,
under the 1940 Act, may not be changed without the vote of a majority of the
outstanding voting securities of the Fund or Portfolio, as the case may be. A
"majority of the outstanding voting securities" is defined in the 1940 Act as
the lesser of (a) 67% or more of the voting securities present at a meeting if
the holders of more than 50% of the outstanding voting securities are present or
represented by proxy, or (b) more than 50% of the outstanding voting securities.
The percentage limitations contained in the restrictions below apply at the time
of the purchase of securities. Whenever a Fund is requested to vote on a change
in the fundamental investment restrictions of its corresponding Portfolio, the
Trust
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will hold a meeting of Fund shareholders and will cast its votes as instructed
by the Fund's shareholders.
The MONEY MARKET FUND and its corresponding PORTFOLIO may not:
1. Acquire any illiquid securities, such as repurchase agreements with more than
seven days to maturity or fixed time deposits with a duration of over seven
calendar days, if as a result thereof, more than 10% of the market value of the
Fund's total assets would be in investments which are illiquid;
2. Enter into reverse repurchase agreements exceeding in the aggregate one-third
of the market value of the Fund's total assets, less liabilities other than
obligations created by reverse repurchase agreements;
3. Borrow money, except from banks for extraordinary or emergency purposes and
then only in amounts not to exceed 10% of the value of the Fund's total assets,
taken at cost, at the time of such borrowing. Mortgage, pledge, or hypothecate
any assets except in connection with any such borrowing and in amounts not to
exceed 10% of the value of the Fund's net assets at the time of such borrowing.
The Fund will not purchase securities while borrowings exceed 5% of the Fund's
total assets; provided, however, that the Fund may increase its interest in an
open-end management investment company with the same investment objective and
restrictions as the Fund while such borrowings are outstanding. This borrowing
provision is included to facilitate the orderly sale of portfolio securities,
for example, in the event of abnormally heavy redemption requests, and is not
for investment purposes and shall not apply to reverse repurchase agreements;
4. Purchase the securities or other obligations of any one issuer if,
immediately after such purchase, more than 5% of the value of the Fund's total
assets would be invested in securities or other obligations of any one such
issuer; provided, however, that the Fund may invest all or part of its
investable assets in an open-end management investment company with the same
investment objective and restrictions as the Fund. This limitation shall not
apply to issues of the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities and to
permitted investments of up to 25% of the Fund's total assets;
5. Purchase the securities or other obligations of issuers conducting their
principal business activity in the same industry if, immediately after such
purchase, the value of its investment in such industry would exceed 25% of the
value of the Fund's total assets; provided, however, that the Fund may invest
all or part of its investable assets in an open-end management investment
company with the same investment objective and restrictions as the Fund. For
purposes of industry concentration, there is no percentage limitation with
respect to investments in U.S. Government securities, negotiable certificates of
deposit, time deposits, and bankers' acceptances of U.S. branches of U.S. banks;
6. Make loans, except through purchasing or holding debt obligations, or
entering into repurchase agreements, or loans of portfolio securities in
accordance with the Fund's investment objective and policies (see "Investment
Objectives and Policies");
7. Purchase or sell puts, calls, straddles, spreads, or any combination thereof,
real estate, commodities, or commodity contracts or interests in oil, gas, or
mineral exploration or development programs. However, the Fund may purchase
bonds or commercial paper issued by companies which invest in real estate or
interests therein including real estate investment trusts;
8. Purchase securities on margin, make short sales of securities, or maintain a
short position, provided that this restriction shall not be deemed to be
applicable to the purchase or sale of when-issued securities or of securities
for delivery at a future date;
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9. Acquire securities of other investment companies, except as permitted by the
1940 Act;
10. Act as an underwriter of securities; or
11. Issue senior securities, except as may otherwise be permitted by the
foregoing investment restrictions or under the 1940 Act or any rule, order or
interpretation thereunder.
The TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET FUND and its corresponding PORTFOLIO may not:
1. Borrow money, except from banks for temporary, extraordinary or emergency
purposes and then only in amounts up to 10% of the value of the Fund's total
assets, taken at cost at the time of such borrowing; or mortgage, pledge or
hypothecate any assets except in connection with any such borrowing in amounts
up to 10% of the value of the Fund's net assets at the time of such borrowing.
The Fund will not purchase securities while borrowings exceed 5% of the Fund's
total assets, provided, however, that the Fund may increase its interest in an
open-end management investment company with the same investment objective and
restrictions as the Fund's while such borrowings are outstanding. This
borrowing provision, for example, facilitates the orderly sale of portfolio
securities in the event of abnormally heavy redemption requests or in the event
of redemption requests during periods of tight market supply. This provision is
not for leveraging purposes;
2. Invest more than 25% of its total assets in securities of governmental units
located in any one state, territory, or possession of the United States. The
Fund may invest more then 25% of its total assets in industrial development and
pollution control obligations whether or not the users of facilities financed by
such obligations are in the same industry;(1)
3. Purchase industrial revenue bonds if, as a result of such purchase, more than
5% of total Fund assets would be invested in industrial revenue bonds where
payment of principal and interest are the responsibility of companies with fewer
than three years of operating history;
4. Purchase the securities or other obligations of any one issuer if,
immediately after such purchase, more than 5% of the value of the Fund's total
assets would be invested in securities or other obligations of any one such
issuer, provided, however, that the Fund may invest all or part of its
investable assets in an open-end management investment company with the same
investment objective and restrictions as the Fund's. Each state and each
political subdivision, agency or instrumentality of such state and each
multi-state agency of which such state is a member will be a separate issuer if
the security is backed only by the assets and revenues of that issuer. If the
security is guaranteed by another entity, the guarantor will be deemed to be the
issuer.(2) This limitation shall not apply to securities issued or guaranteed
by the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities or to permitted
investments of up to 25% of the Fund's total assets;
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1. Pursuant to an interpretation of the staff of the SEC, the Fund may not
invest more than 25% of its assets in industrial development bonds in projects
of similar type or in the same state. The Fund shall comply with this
interpretation until such time as it may be modified by the staff of the SEC.
2. For purposes of interpretation of Investment Restriction No. 4
"guaranteed by another entity" includes credit substitutions, such as letters of
credit or insurance, unless the Advisor determines that the security meets the
Fund's credit standards without regard to the credit substitution.
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5. Make loans, except through the purchase or holding of debt obligations,
repurchase agreements, or loans of portfolio securities in accordance with the
Fund's investment objective and policies (see "Investment Objectives and
Policies");
6. Purchase or sell puts, calls, straddles, spreads, or any combination thereof
except to the extent that securities subject to a demand obligation, stand-by
commitments and puts may be purchased (see "Investment Objectives and
Policies"); real estate; commodities; commodity contracts; or interests in oil,
gas, or mineral exploration or development programs. However, the Fund may
purchase municipal bonds, notes or commercial paper secured by interests in real
estate;
7. Purchase securities on margin, make short sales of securities, or maintain a
short position, provided that this restriction shall not be deemed to be
applicable to the purchase or sale of when-issued securities or of securities
for delayed delivery;
8. Acquire securities of other investment companies, except as permitted by the
1940 Act;
9. Act as an underwriter of securities; or
10. Issue senior securities, except as may otherwise be permitted by the
foregoing investment restrictions or under the 1940 Act or any rule, order or
interpretation thereunder.
The TREASURY MONEY MARKET FUND and its corresponding PORTFOLIO may not:
1. Enter into reverse repurchase agreements which together with any other
borrowing exceeds in the aggregate one-third of the market value of the Fund's
or the Portfolio's total assets, less liabilities other than the obligations
created by reverse repurchase agreements;
2. Borrow money (not including reverse repurchase agreements), except from banks
for temporary or extraordinary or emergency purposes and then only in amounts up
to 10% of the value of the Fund's or the Portfolio's total assets, taken at cost
at the time of such borrowing (and provided that such borrowings and reverse
repurchase agreements do not exceed in the aggregate one-third of the market
value of the Fund's and the Portfolio's total assets less liabilities other than
the obligations represented by the bank borrowings and reverse repurchase
agreements). Mortgage, pledge, or hypothecate any assets except in connection
with any such borrowing and in amounts up to 10% of the value of the Fund's or
the Portfolio's net assets at the time of such borrowing. The Fund or the
Portfolio will not purchase securities while borrowings exceed 5% of the Fund's
or the Portfolio's total assets, respectively; provided, however, that the Fund
may increase its interest in an open-end management investment company with the
same investment objective and restrictions as the Fund while such borrowings are
outstanding. This borrowing provision is included to facilitate the orderly
sale of portfolio securities, for example, in the event of abnormally heavy
redemption requests, and is not for investment purposes;
3. Purchase the securities or other obligations of any one issuer if,
immediately after such purchase, more than 5% of the value of the Fund's or the
Portfolio's total assets would be invested in securities or other obligations of
any one such issuer; provided, however, that the Fund may invest all or part of
its investable assets in an open-end management investment company with the same
investment objective and restrictions as the Fund. This limitation also shall
not apply to issues of the U.S. Government and repurchase agreements related
thereto;
4. Purchase the securities or other obligations of issuers conducting their
principal business activity in the same industry if, immediately after such
purchase, the value of its investment in such industry would exceed 25% of the
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value of the Fund's or the Portfolio's total assets; provided, however, that the
Fund may invest all or part of its assets in an open-end management investment
company with the same investment objective and restrictions as the Fund. For
purposes of industry concentration, there is no percentage limitation with
respect to investments in U.S. Government securities and repurchase agreements
related thereto;
5. Make loans, except through purchasing or holding debt obligations, repurchase
agreements, or loans of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund's or
the Portfolio's investment objective and policies (see "Investment Objectives
and Policies");
6. Purchase or sell puts, calls, straddles, spreads, or any combination thereof,
real estate, commodities, or commodity contracts or interests in oil, gas, or
mineral exploration or development programs;
7. Purchase securities on margin, make short sales of securities, or maintain a
short position, provided that this restriction shall not be deemed to be
applicable to the purchase or sale of when-issued securities or of securities
for delivery at a future date;
8. Acquire securities of other investment companies, except as permitted by the
1940 Act or in connection with a merger, consolidation, reorganization,
acquisition of assets or an offer of exchange; provided, however, that nothing
in this investment restriction shall prevent the Trust from investing all or
part of the Fund's assets in an open-end management investment company with the
same investment objective and restrictions as the Fund;
9. Act as an underwriter of securities; or
10. Issue senior securities, except as may otherwise be permitted by the
foregoing investment restrictions or under the 1940 Act or any rule, order or
interpretation thereunder.
The SHORT TERM BOND FUND and its corresponding PORTFOLIO may not:
1. Purchase securities or other obligations of issuers conducting their
principal business activity in the same industry if, immediately after such
purchase the value of its investments in such industry would exceed 25% of the
value of the Fund's total assets; provided, however, that the Fund may invest
all or part of its investable assets in an open-end management investment
company with the same investment objective and restrictions as the Fund's. For
purposes of industry concentration, there is no percentage limitation with
respect to investments in U.S. Government securities;
2. Purchase the securities or other obligations of any one issuer if,
immediately after such purchase, more than 5% of the value of the Fund's total
assets would be invested in securities or other obligations of any one such
issuer; provided, however, that the Fund may invest all or part of its
investable assets in an open-end management investment company with the same
investment objective and restrictions as the Fund's. This limitation shall not
apply to securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies or
instrumentalities or to permitted investments of up to 25% of the Fund's total
assets;
3. Purchase the securities of an issuer if, immediately after such purchase, the
Fund owns more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer;
provided, however, that the Fund may invest all or part of its investable assets
in an open-end management investment company with the same investment objective
and restrictions as the Fund's. This limitation shall not apply to permitted
investments of up to 25% of the Fund's total assets;
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4. Borrow money (not including reverse repurchase agreements), except from banks
for temporary or extraordinary or emergency purposes and then only in amounts up
to 30% of the value of the Fund's or the Portfolio's total assets, taken at cost
at the time of such borrowing (and provided that such borrowings and reverse
repurchase agreements do not exceed in the aggregate one-third of the market
value of the Fund's and the Portfolio's total assets less liabilities other than
the obligations represented by the bank borrowings and reverse repurchase
agreements). The Fund will not mortgage, pledge, or hypothecate any assets
except in connection with any such borrowing and in amounts not to exceed 30% of
the value of the Fund's or the Portfolio's net assets at the time of such
borrowing. The Fund or the Portfolio will not purchase securities while
borrowings exceed 5% of the Fund's total assets; provided, however, that the
Fund may increase its interest in an open-end management investment company with
the same investment objective and restrictions as the Fund's while such
borrowings are outstanding. Collateral arrangements for premium and margin
payments in connection with the Fund's hedging activities are not deemed to be a
pledge of assets;
5. Issue any senior security, except as appropriate to evidence indebtedness
which constitutes a senior security and which the Fund is permitted to incur
pursuant to Investment Restriction No. 4 and except that the Fund may enter into
reverse repurchase agreements, provided that the aggregate of senior securities,
including reverse repurchase agreements, shall not exceed one-third of the
market value of the Fund's total assets, less liabilities other than obligations
created by reverse repurchase agreements. The Fund's arrangements in connection
with its hedging activities as described in "Investment Objectives and Policies"
shall not be considered senior securities for purposes hereof;
6. Make loans, except through the purchase or holding of debt obligations
(including privately placed securities) or the entering into of repurchase
agreements, or loans of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund's
investment objective and policies;
7. Purchase or sell puts, calls, straddles, spreads, or any combination thereof,
real estate, commodities, or commodity contracts, except for the Fund's
interests in hedging activities as described under "Investment Objectives and
Policies"; or interests in oil, gas, or mineral exploration or development
programs. However, the Fund may purchase securities or commercial paper issued
by companies which invest in real estate or interests therein, including real
estate investment trusts, and purchase instruments secured by real estate or
interests therein;
8. Purchase securities on margin, make short sales of securities, or maintain a
short position in securities, except to obtain such short-term credit as
necessary for the clearance of purchases and sales of securities; provided that
this restriction shall not be deemed to be applicable to the purchase or sale of
when-issued securities or delayed delivery securities;
9. Acquire securities of other investment companies, except as permitted by the
1940 Act or in connection with a merger, consolidation, reorganization,
acquisition of assets or an offer of exchange; provided, however, that nothing
in this investment restriction shall prevent the Trust from investing all or
part of the Fund's assets in an open-end management investment company with the
same investment objective and restrictions as the Fund; or
10. Act as an underwriter of securities.
The BOND FUND and its corresponding PORTFOLIO may not:
1. Borrow money, except from banks for extraordinary or emergency purposes and
then only in amounts up to 30% of the value of the Fund's total assets, taken at
cost at the time of such borrowing and except in connection with reverse
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repurchase agreements permitted by Investment Restriction No. 8. Mortgage,
pledge, or hypothecate any assets except in connection with any such borrowing
in amounts up to 30% of the value of the Fund's net assets at the time of such
borrowing. The Fund will not purchase securities while borrowings (including
reverse repurchase agreements) exceed 5% of the Fund's total assets; provided,
however, that the Fund may increase its interest in an open-end management
investment company with the same investment objective and restrictions as the
Fund's while such borrowings are outstanding. This borrowing provision
facilitates the orderly sale of portfolio securities, for example, in the event
of abnormally heavy redemption requests. This provision is not for investment
purposes. Collateral arrangements for premium and margin payments in connection
with the Fund's hedging activities are not deemed to be a pledge of assets;
2. Purchase the securities or other obligations of any one issuer if,
immediately after such purchase, more than 5% of the value of the Fund's total
assets would be invested in securities or other obligations of any one such
issuer; provided, however, that the Fund may invest all or part of its
investable assets in an open-end management investment company with the same
investment objective and restrictions as the Fund's. This limitation shall not
apply to securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies or
instrumentalities or to permitted investments of up to 25% of the Fund's total
assets;
3. Purchase the securities of an issuer if, immediately after such purchase, the
Fund owns more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer;
provided, however, that the Fund may invest all or part of its investable assets
in an open-end management investment company with the same investment objective
and restrictions as the Fund's. This limitation shall not apply to permitted
investments of up to 25% of the Fund's total assets;
4. Purchase securities or other obligations of issuers conducting their
principal business activity in the same industry if, immediately after such
purchase the value of its investments in such industry would exceed 25% of the
value of the Fund's total assets; provided, however, that the Fund may invest
all or part of its investable assets in an open-end management investment
company with the same investment objective and restrictions as the Fund's. For
purposes of industry concentration, there is no percentage limitation with
respect to investments in U.S. Government securities;
5. Make loans, except through the purchase or holding of debt obligations
(including privately placed securities) or the entering into of repurchase
agreements, or loans of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund's
investment objective and policies;
6. Purchase or sell puts, calls, straddles, spreads, or any combination thereof,
real estate, commodities, commodity contracts, except for the Fund's interest in
hedging activities as described under "Investment Objectives and Policies"; or
interests in oil, gas, or mineral exploration or development programs. However,
the Fund may purchase debt obligations secured by interests in real estate or
issued by companies which invest in real estate or interests therein including
real estate investment trusts;
7. Purchase securities on margin, make short sales of securities, or maintain a
short position in securities, except in the course of the Fund's hedging
activities, unless at all times when a short position is open the Fund owns an
equal amount of such securities, provided that this restriction shall not be
deemed to be applicable to the purchase or sale of when-issued securities or
delayed delivery securities;
8. Issue any senior security, except as appropriate to evidence indebtedness
which constitutes a senior security and which the Fund is permitted to incur
pursuant to Investment Restriction No. 1 and except that the Fund may enter into
reverse repurchase agreements, provided that the aggregate of senior securities,
35
<PAGE>
including reverse repurchase agreements, shall not exceed one-third of the
market value of the Fund's total assets, less liabilities other than obligations
created by reverse repurchase agreements. The Fund's arrangements in connection
with its hedging activities as described in "Investment Objectives and Policies"
shall not be considered senior securities for purposes hereof;
9. Acquire securities of other investment companies, except as permitted by the
1940 Act; or
10. Act as an underwriter of securities.
The TAX EXEMPT BOND FUND and its corresponding PORTFOLIO may not:
1. Borrow money, except from banks for extraordinary or emergency purposes and
then only in amounts up to 10% of the value of the Fund's total assets, taken at
cost at the time of such borrowing; or mortgage, pledge, or hypothecate any
assets except in connection with any such borrowing in amounts up to 10% of the
value of the Fund's net assets at the time of such borrowing. The Fund will not
purchase securities while borrowings exceed 5% of the Fund's total assets;
provided, however, that the Fund may increase its interest in an open-end
management investment company with the same investment objective and
restrictions as the Fund's while such borrowings are outstanding. This
borrowing provision facilitates the orderly sale of portfolio securities, for
example, in the event of abnormally heavy redemption requests. This provision
is not for investment purposes. Collateral arrangements for premium and margin
payments in connection with the Fund's hedging activities are not deemed to be a
pledge of assets;
2. Purchase securities or other obligations of any one issuer if, immediately
after such purchase, more than 5% of the value of the Fund's total assets would
be invested in securities or other obligations of any one such issuer; provided,
however, that the Fund may invest all or part of its investable assets in an
open-end management investment company with the same investment objective and
restrictions as the Fund's. Each state and each political subdivision, agency
or instrumentality of such state and each multi-state agency of which such state
is a member will be a separate issuer if the security is backed only by the
assets and revenue of that issuer. If the security is guaranteed by another
entity, the guarantor will be deemed to be the issuer.(3) This limitation shall
not apply to securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its
agencies or instrumentalities or to permitted investments of up to 25% of the
Fund's total assets;
3. Invest more than 25% of its total assets in securities of governmental units
located in any one state, territory, or possession of the United States. The
Fund may invest more than 25% of its total assets in industrial developments and
pollution control obligations whether or not the users of facilities financed by
such obligations are in that same industry;(4)
4. Purchase industrial revenue bonds if, as a result of such purchase, more than
5% of total Fund assets would be invested in industrial revenue bonds where
- ---------------------------------
3. For purposes of interpretation of Investment Restriction No. 2 "guaranteed
by another entity" includes credit substitutions, such as letters of credit or
insurance, unless the Advisor determines that the security meets the Fund's
credit standards without regard to the credit substitution.
4. Pursuant to an interpretation of the staff of the SEC, the Fund may not
invest more than 25% of its assets in industrial development bonds in projects
of similar type or in the same state. The Fund shall comply with this
interpretation until such time as it may be modified by the staff of the SEC.
36
<PAGE>
payment of principal and interest are the responsibility of companies with fewer
than three years of operating history (including predecessors);
5. Make loans, except through the purchase or holding of debt obligations
(including privately placed securities) or the entering into of repurchase
agreements, or loans of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund's
investment objective and policies (see "Investment Objectives and Policies");
6. Purchase or sell puts, calls, straddles, spreads, or any combination thereof
except to the extent that securities subject to a demand obligation, stand-by
commitments and puts may be purchased (see "Investment Objectives and
Policies"); real estate; commodities; commodity contracts, except for the Fund's
interests in hedging activities as described under "Investment Objectives and
Policies"; or interests in oil, gas, or mineral exploration or development
programs. However, the Fund may purchase municipal bonds, notes or commercial
paper secured by interests in real estate;
7. Purchase securities on margin, make short sales of securities, or maintain a
short position, except in the course of the Fund's hedging activities, unless at
all times when a short position is open the Fund owns an equal amount of such
securities or owns securities which, without payment of any further
consideration, are convertible into or exchangeable for securities of the same
issue as, and equal in amount to, the securities sold short; provided that this
restriction shall not be deemed to be applicable to the purchase or sale of
when-issued or delayed delivery securities;
8. Issue any senior security, except as appropriate to evidence indebtedness
which the Fund is permitted to incur pursuant to Investment Restriction No. 1.
The Fund's arrangements in connection with its hedging activities as described
in "Investment Objectives and Policies" shall not be considered senior
securities for purposes hereof;
9. Acquire securities of other investment companies, except as permitted by the
1940 Act; or
10. Act as an underwriter of securities.
Unless Sections 8(b)(1) and 13(a) of the 1940 Act or any SEC or SEC staff
interpretations thereof, are amended or modified, the NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND
FUND and its corresponding PORTFOLIO may not:
1. Purchase any security if, as a result, more than 25% of the value of the
Fund's total assets would be invested in securities of issuers having their
principal business activities in the same industry. This limitation shall not
apply to obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies
or instrumentalities;
2. Borrow money, except that the Fund may (i) borrow money from banks for
temporary or emergency purposes (not for leveraging purposes) and (ii) enter
into reverse repurchase agreements for any purpose; provided that (i) and (ii)
in total do not exceed 33 1/3% of the value of the Fund's total assets
(including the amount borrowed) less liabilities (other than borrowings). If at
any time any borrowings come to exceed 33 1/3% of the value of the Fund's total
assets, the Fund will reduce its borrowings within three business days to the
extent necessary to comply with the 33 1/3% limitation;
3. Make loans to other persons, except through the purchase of debt obligations,
loans of portfolio securities, and participation in repurchase agreements;
4. Purchase or sell physical commodities or contracts thereon, unless acquired
as a result of the ownership of securities or instruments, but the Fund may
purchase or sell futures contracts or options (including options on futures
37
<PAGE>
contracts, but excluding options or futures contracts on physical commodities)
and may enter into foreign currency forward contracts;
5. Purchase or sell real estate, but the Fund may purchase or sell securities
that are secured by real estate or issued by companies (including real estate
investment trusts) that invest or deal in real estate;
6. Underwrite securities of other issuers, except to the extent the Fund, in
disposing of portfolio securities, may be deemed an underwriter within the
meaning of the 1933 Act;
7. Issue senior securities, except as permitted under the 1940 Act or any rule,
order or interpretation thereunder; or
8. Notwithstanding any other investment restriction of the Fund, the Fund may
invest all of its investable assets in an open-end management investment company
having the same investment objective and restrictions as the Fund.
The DIVERSIFIED FUND and its corresponding PORTFOLIO may not:
1. Purchase the securities or other obligations of issuers conducting their
principal business activity in the same industry if, immediately after such
purchase the value of its investments in such industry would exceed 25% of the
value of the Fund's total assets; provided, however, that the Fund may invest
all or part of its investable assets in an open-end management investment
company with the same investment objective and restrictions as the Fund's. For
purposes of industry concentration, there is no percentage limitation with
respect to investments in U.S. Government securities;
2. Purchase the securities or other obligations of any one issuer if,
immediately after such purchase, more than 5% of the value of the Fund's total
assets would be invested in securities or other obligations of any one such
issuer; provided, however, that the Fund may invest all or part of its
investable assets in an open-end management investment company with the same
investment objective and restrictions as the Fund's. This limitation shall not
apply to securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies or
instrumentalities or to permitted investments of up to 25% of the Fund's total
assets;
3. Purchase the securities of an issuer if, immediately after such purchase, the
Fund owns more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer;
provided, however, that the Fund may invest all or part of its investable assets
in an open-end management investment company with the same investment objective
and restrictions as the Fund's. This limitation shall not apply to permitted
investments of up to 25% of the Fund's total assets;
4. Borrow money (not including reverse repurchase agreements), except from banks
for temporary or extraordinary or emergency purposes and then only in amounts up
to 30% of the value of the Fund's or the Portfolio's total assets, taken at cost
at the time of such borrowing (and provided that such borrowings and reverse
repurchase agreements do not exceed in the aggregate one-third of the market
value of the Fund's and the Portfolio's total assets less liabilities other than
the obligations represented by the bank borrowings and reverse repurchase
agreements). The Fund will not mortgage, pledge, or hypothecate any assets
except in connection with any such borrowing and in amounts not to exceed 30% of
the value of the Fund's or the Portfolio's net assets at the time of such
borrowing. The Fund or the Portfolio will not purchase securities while
borrowings exceed 5% of the Fund's total assets; provided, however, that the
Fund may increase its interest in an open-end management investment company with
the same investment objective and restrictions as the Fund's while such
borrowings are outstanding. This borrowing provision is included to facilitate
the orderly sale of portfolio securities, for example, in the event of
abnormally heavy redemption requests, and is not for investment purposes.
Collateral arrangements
38
<PAGE>
for premium and margin payments in connection with the Fund's use of futures
contracts and options are not deemed to be a pledge of assets;
5. Issue any senior security, except as appropriate to evidence indebtedness
which constitutes a senior security and which the Fund is permitted to incur
pursuant to Investment Restriction No. 4 and except that the Fund may enter into
reverse repurchase agreements, provided that the aggregate of senior securities,
including reverse repurchase agreements, shall not exceed one-third of the
market value of the Fund's total assets, less liabilities other than obligations
created by reverse repurchase agreements. The Fund's arrangements in connection
with its use of futures contracts and options shall not be considered senior
securities for purposes hereof;
6. Make loans, except through the purchase or holding of debt obligations
(including privately placed securities), or the entering into of repurchase
agreements, or loans of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund's
investment objective and policies (see "Investment Objectives and Policies");
7. Purchase or sell commodities or commodity contracts, but this restriction
shall not prohibit the Fund from purchasing or selling futures contracts or
options (including options on futures contracts, but excluding options or
futures contracts on physical commodities) or entering into foreign currency
forward contracts; or purchase or sell real estate or interests in oil, gas, or
mineral exploration or development programs. However, the Fund may purchase
securities or commercial paper issued by companies which invest in real estate
or interests therein, including real estate investment trusts, and purchase
instruments secured by real estate or interests therein;
8. Purchase securities on margin, make short sales of securities, or maintain a
short position in securities, except to obtain such short term credit as
necessary for the clearance of purchases and sales of securities, provided that
this restriction shall not be deemed to be applicable to the purchase or sale of
when-issued securities or delayed delivery securities or to restrict the Fund's
use of futures contracts or options;
9. Acquire securities of other investment companies, except as permitted by the
1940 Act or in connection with a merger, consolidation, reorganization,
acquisition of assets or an offer of exchange; provided, however, that nothing
in this investment restriction shall prevent the Trust from investing all or
part of the Fund's assets in an open-end management investment company with the
same investment objective and restrictions as the Fund; or
10. Act as an underwriter of securities.
Each of the EQUITY FUND and the CAPITAL APPRECIATION FUND and their
corresponding PORTFOLIOS may not:
1. Purchase the securities or other obligations of issuers conducting their
principal business activity in the same industry if, immediately after such
purchase the value of its investments in such industry would exceed 25% of the
value of the Fund's total assets; provided, however, that the Fund may invest
all or part of its investable assets in an open-end management investment
company with the same investment objective and restrictions as the Fund's. For
purposes of industry concentration, there is no percentage limitation with
respect to investments in U.S. Government securities;
2. Borrow money, except from banks for extraordinary or emergency purposes and
then only in amounts not to exceed 10% of the value of the Fund's total assets,
taken at cost, at the time of such borrowing. Mortgage, pledge, or hypothecate
any assets except in connection with any such borrowing and in amounts not to
exceed 10% of the value of the Fund's net assets at the time of such borrowing.
The Fund will not purchase securities while borrowings exceed 5% of the Fund's
39
<PAGE>
total assets; provided, however, that the Fund may increase its interest in an
open-end management investment company with the same investment objective and
restrictions as the Fund's while such borrowings are outstanding. This borrowing
provision is included to facilitate the orderly sale of portfolio securities,
for example, in the event of abnormally heavy redemption requests, and is not
for investment purposes. Collateral arrangements for premium and margin payments
in connection with the Fund's hedging activities are not deemed to be a pledge
of assets;
3. Purchase the securities or other obligations of any one issuer if,
immediately after such purchase, more than 5% of the value of the Fund's total
assets would be invested in securities or other obligations of any one such
issuer; provided, however, that the Fund may invest all or part of its
investable assets in an open-end management investment company with the same
investment objective and restrictions as the Fund's. This limitation shall not
apply to issues of the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities and to
permitted investments of up to 25% of the Fund's total assets;
4. Purchase the securities of an issuer if, immediately after such purchase, the
Fund owns more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer;
provided, however, that the Fund may invest all or part of its investable assets
in an open-end management investment company with the same investment objective
and restrictions as the Fund's;
5. Make loans, except through the purchase or holding of debt obligations
(including privately placed securities), or the entering into of repurchase
agreements, or loans of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund's
investment objective and policies (see "Investment Objectives and Policies");
6. Purchase or sell puts, calls, straddles, spreads, or any combination thereof,
real estate, commodities, or commodity contracts, except for the Fund's
interests in hedging activities as described under "Investment Objectives and
Policies"; or interests in oil, gas, or mineral exploration or development
programs. However, the Fund may purchase securities or commercial paper issued
by companies which invest in real estate or interests therein, including real
estate investment trusts;
7. Purchase securities on margin, make short sales of securities, or maintain a
short position, except in the course of the Fund's hedging activities, provided
that this restriction shall not be deemed to be applicable to the purchase or
sale of when-issued securities or delayed delivery securities;
8. Acquire securities of other investment companies, except as permitted by the
1940 Act;
9. Act as an underwriter of securities;
10. Issue any senior security, except as appropriate to evidence indebtedness
which the Fund is permitted to incur pursuant to Investment Restriction No. 2.
The Fund's arrangements in connection with its hedging activities as described
in "Investment Objectives and Policies" shall not be considered senior
securities for purposes hereof; or
11. Purchase any equity security if, as a result, the Fund would then have more
than 5% of its total assets invested in securities of companies (including
predecessors) that have been in continuous operation for fewer than three years.
The INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND and its corresponding PORTFOLIO may not:
1. Borrow money, except from banks for extraordinary or emergency purposes and
then only in amounts up to 30% of the value of the Fund's net assets at the time
of borrowing, and except in connection with reverse repurchase agreements and
40
<PAGE>
then only in amounts up to 33 1/3% of the value of the Fund's net assets; or
purchase securities while borrowings, including reverse repurchase agreements,
exceed 5% of the Fund's total assets; provided, however, that the Fund may
increase its interest in an open-end management investment company with the same
investment objective and restrictions as the Fund's while such borrowings are
outstanding. The Fund will not mortgage, pledge, or hypothecate any assets
except in connection with any such borrowing and in amounts not to exceed 30% of
the value of the Fund's net assets at the time of such borrowing;
2. Purchase the securities or other obligations of any one issuer if,
immediately after such purchase, more than 5% of the value of the Fund's total
assets would be invested in securities or other obligations of any one such
issuer; provided, however, that the Fund may invest all or part of its
investable assets in an open-end management investment company with the same
investment objective and restrictions as the Fund's. This limitation shall not
apply to securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies or
instrumentalities or to permitted investments of up to 25% of the Fund's total
assets;
3. Purchase the securities of an issuer if, immediately after such purchase, the
Fund owns more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer;
provided, however, that the Fund may invest all or part of its investable assets
in an open-end management investment company with the same investment objective
and restrictions as the Fund's. This limitation shall not apply to permitted
investments of up to 25% of the Fund's total assets;
4. Purchase the securities or other obligations of issuers conducting their
principal business activity in the same industry if, immediately after such
purchase, the value of its investments in such industry would exceed 25% of the
value of the Fund's total assets; provided, however, that the Fund may invest
all or part of its investable assets in an open-end management investment
company with the same investment objective and restrictions as the Fund's. For
purposes of industry concentration, there is no percentage limitation with
respect to investments in U.S. Government securities;
5. Make loans, except through the purchase or holding of debt obligations
(including restricted securities), or the entering into of repurchase
agreements, or loans of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund's
investment objective and policies, see "Additional Investment Information" in
the Prospectus and "Investment Objectives and Policies" in this Statement of
Additional Information;
6. Purchase or sell puts, calls, straddles, spreads, or any combination thereof,
real property, including limited partnership interests, commodities, or
commodity contracts, except for the Fund's interests in hedging and foreign
exchange activities as described under "Additional Investment Information" in
the Prospectus; or interests in oil, gas, mineral or other exploration or
development programs or leases. However, the Fund may purchase securities or
commercial paper issued by companies that invest in real estate or interests
therein including real estate investment trusts;
7. Purchase securities on margin, make short sales of securities, or maintain a
short position in securities, except to obtain such short-term credit as
necessary for the clearance of purchases and sales of securities, provided that
this restriction shall not be deemed to apply to the purchase or sale of
when-issued securities or delayed delivery securities;
8. Acquire securities of other investment companies, except as permitted by the
1940 Act;
9. Act as an underwriter of securities, except insofar as the Fund may be deemed
to be an underwriter under the 1933 Act by virtue of disposing of portfolio
securities; or
41
<PAGE>
10. Issue any senior security, except as appropriate to evidence indebtedness
which the Fund is permitted to incur pursuant to Investment Restriction No. 1.
The Fund's arrangements in connection with its hedging activities as described
in "Additional Investment Information" in the Prospectus shall not be considered
senior securities for purposes hereof.
Unless Sections 8(b)(1) and 13(a) of the 1940 Act, or any SEC or SEC staff
interpretations thereof, are amended or modified, each of the EMERGING MARKETS
EQUITY, EUROPEAN EQUITY AND ASIA GROWTH FUNDS and its corresponding PORTFOLIO
may not:
1. Purchase any security if, as a result, more than 25% of the value of the
Fund's total assets would be invested in securities of issuers having their
principal business activities in the same industry. This limitation shall not
apply to obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies
or instrumentalities;
2. Borrow money, except that the Fund may (i) borrow money from banks for
temporary or emergency purposes (not for leveraging purposes) and (ii) enter
into reverse repurchase agreements for any purpose; provided that (i) and (ii)
in total do not exceed 33 1/3% of the value of the Fund's total assets
(including the amount borrowed) less liabilities (other than borrowings). If at
any time any borrowings come to exceed 33 1/3% of the value of the Fund's total
assets, the Fund will reduce its borrowings within three business days to the
extent necessary to comply with the 33 1/3% limitation;
3. With respect to 75% of its total assets, purchase any security if, as a
result, (a) more than 5% of the value of the Fund's total assets would be
invested in securities or other obligations of any one issuer; or (b) the Fund
would hold more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of that issuer.
This limitation shall not apply to Government securities (as defined in the 1940
Act);
4. Make loans to other persons, except through the purchase of debt obligations,
loans of portfolio securities, and participation in repurchase agreements;
5. Purchase or sell physical commodities or contracts thereon, unless acquired
as a result of the ownership of securities or instruments, but the Fund may
purchase or sell futures contracts or options (including options on futures
contracts, but excluding options or futures contracts on physical commodities)
and may enter into foreign currency forward contracts;
6. Purchase or sell real estate, but the Fund may purchase or sell securities
that are secured by real estate or issued by companies (including real estate
investment trusts) that invest or deal in real estate;
7. Underwrite securities of other issuers, except to the extent the Fund, in
disposing of portfolio securities, may be deemed an underwriter within the
meaning of the 1933 Act;
8. Issue senior securities, except as permitted under the 1940 Act or any rule,
order or interpretation thereunder; and
9. Notwithstanding any other investment restriction of the Fund, the Fund may
invest all of its investable assets in an open-end management investment company
having the same investment objective and restrictions as the Fund.
Unless Sections 8(b)(1) and 13(a) of the 1940 Act or any SEC or SEC staff
interpretations thereof are amended or modified, the JAPAN EQUITY FUND and its
corresponding PORTFOLIO may not:
42
<PAGE>
1. Purchase any security if, as a result, more than 25% of the value of the
Fund's total assets would be invested in securities of issuers having their
principal business activities in the same industry. This limitation shall not
apply to obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government, its agencies
or instrumentalities. In addition, and while subject to changing
interpretations, so long as a single foreign government or supranational
organization is considered to be an "industry" for the purposes of this 25%
limitation, the Portfolio will comply therewith. The staff of the SEC considers
all supranational organizations (as a group) to be a single industry for
concentration purposes;
2. Borrow money, except that the Fund may (i) borrow money from banks for
temporary or emergency purposes (not for leveraging purposes) and (ii) enter
into reverse repurchase agreements for any purpose; provided that (i) and (ii)
in total do not exceed 33 1/3% of the value of the Fund's total assets
(including the amount borrowed) less liabilities (other than borrowings). If at
any time any borrowings come to exceed 33 1/3% of the value of the Fund's total
assets, the Fund will reduce its borrowings within three business days to the
extent necessary to comply with the 33 1/3% limitation;
3. Make loans to other persons, except through the purchase of debt obligations,
loans of portfolio securities, and participation in repurchase agreements;
4. Purchase or sell physical commodities or contracts thereon, unless acquired
as a result of the ownership of securities or instruments, but the Fund may
purchase or sell futures contracts or options (including options on futures
contracts, but excluding options or futures contracts on physical commodities)
and may enter into foreign currency forward contracts;
5. Purchase or sell real estate, but the Fund may purchase or sell securities
that are secured by real estate or issued by companies (including real estate
investment trusts) that invest or deal in real estate;
6. Underwrite securities of other issuers, except to the extent the Fund, in
disposing of portfolio securities, may be deemed an underwriter within the
meaning of the 1933 Act;
7. Issue senior securities, except as permitted under the 1940 Act or any rule,
order or interpretation thereunder; and
8. Notwithstanding any other investment restriction of the Fund, the Fund may
invest all of its investable assets in an open-end management investment company
having substantially the same investment objective and restrictions as the Fund.
Unless Sections 8(b)(1) and 13(a) of the 1940 Act or any SEC or SEC staff
interpretations thereof are amended or modified, the INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
FUND and its corresponding Portfolio may not:
1. Purchase any security if, as a result, more than 25% its total assets would
be invested in securities of issuers in any single industry. This limitation
shall not apply to securities issued or guaranteed as to principal or interest
by the U.S. Government, its agencies or instrumentalities.
2. Issue senior securities. For purposes of this restriction, borrowing money
in accordance with paragraph 3 below, making loans in accordance with
paragraph 7 below, the issuance of shares of beneficial interest in multiple
classes or series, the purchase or sale of options, futures contracts, forward
commitments, swaps and transactions in repurchase agreements are not deemed to
be senior securities.
3. Borrow money, except in amounts not to exceed one third of the Fund's total
assets (including the amount borrowed) (i) from banks for temporary or short-
term
43
<PAGE>
purposes or for the clearance of transactions, (ii) in connection with the
redemption of Fund shares or to finance failed settlements of portfolio trades
without immediately liquidating portfolio securities or other assets, (iii) in
order to fulfill commitments or plans to purchase additional securities pending
the anticipated sale of other portfolio securities or assets and (iv) pursuant
to reverse repurchase agreements entered into by the Fund.
4. Underwrite the securities of other issuers, except to the extent that, in
connection with the disposition of portfolio securities, the Fund may be deemed
to be an underwriter under the 1933 Act.
5. Purchase or sell real estate except that the Fund may (i) acquire or lease
office space for its own use, (ii) invest in securities of issuers that invest
in real estate or interests therein, (iii) invest in securities that are secured
by real estate or interests therein, (iv) purchase and sell mortgage-related
securities and (v) hold and sell real estate acquired by the Fund as a result of
the ownership of securities.
6. Purchase or sell commodities or commodity contracts, except the Fund may
purchase and sell financial futures contracts, options on financial futures
contracts and warrants and may enter into swap and forward commitment
transactions.
7. Make loans, except that the Fund (1) may lend portfolio securities with a
value not exceeding one-third of the Fund's net assets, (2) enter into
repurchase agreements, and (3) purchase all or a portion of an issue of debt
securities (including privately issued debt securities), bank loan participation
interests, bank certificates of deposit, bankers' acceptances, debentures or
other securities, whether or not the purchase is made upon the original issuance
of the securities.
8. With respect to 75% of its total assets, purchase securities of an issuer
(other than the U.S. Government, its agencies, instrumentalities or authorities
or repurchase agreements collateralized by U.S. Government securities), if:
a. such purchase would cause more than 5% of the Fund's total assets
to be invested in the securities of such issuer; or
b. such purchase would cause the Fund to hold more than 10% of the
outstanding voting securities of such issuer.
(Although permitted to do so by restriction No. 3 above, the Fund has no
current intention to engage in borrowing for financial leverage.)
NON-FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS - MONEY MARKET FUND. The
investment restriction described below is not a fundamental policy of the Money
Market Fund or its corresponding Portfolio and may be changed by their
respective Trustees. This non-fundamental investment policy requires that the
Money Market Fund and its corresponding Portfolio may not:
(i) enter into reverse repurchase agreements or borrow money, except from banks
for extraordinary or emergency purposes, if such obligations exceed in the
aggregate one-third of the market value of the Fund's total assets, less
liabilities other than obligations created by reverse repurchase agreements and
borrowings.
NON-FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS - TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET FUND AND
TREASURY MONEY MARKET FUND. The investment restriction described below is not a
fundamental policy of these Funds or their corresponding Portfolios and may be
changed by their respective Trustees. This non-fundamental investment policy
requires that each such Fund may not:
44
<PAGE>
(i) acquire any illiquid securities, such as repurchase agreements with more
than seven days to maturity or fixed time deposits with a duration of over seven
calendar days, if as a result thereof, more than 10% of the market value of the
Fund's total assets would be in investments that are illiquid.
NON-FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS - SHORT TERM BOND FUND, TAX EXEMPT
BOND FUND, BOND FUND, EQUITY FUND, CAPITAL APPRECIATION FUND, INTERNATIONAL
EQUITY FUND, DIVERSIFIED FUND, EUROPEAN EQUITY FUND, JAPAN EQUITY FUND AND ASIA
GROWTH FUND. The investment restriction described below is not a fundamental
policy of these Funds or their corresponding Portfolios and may be changed by
their respective Trustees. This non-fundamental investment policy requires that
each such Fund may not:
(i) acquire any illiquid securities, such as repurchase agreements with more
than seven days to maturity or fixed time deposits with a duration of over seven
calendar days, if as a result thereof, more than 15% of the market value of the
Fund's total assets would be in investments that are illiquid.
NON-FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS - NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND.
The investment restrictions described below are not fundamental policies of the
New York Total Return Bond Fund and its corresponding Portfolio and may be
changed by their Trustees. These non-fundamental investment policies require
that the New York Total Return Bond Fund and its corresponding Portfolio may
not:
(i) Acquire securities of other investment companies, except as permitted by the
1940 Act or any rule, order or interpretation thereunder, or in connection with
a merger, consolidation, reorganization, acquisition of assets or an offer of
exchange;
(ii) Acquire any illiquid securities, such as repurchase agreements with more
than seven days to maturity or fixed time deposits with a duration of over seven
calendar days, if as a result thereof, more than 15% of the market value of the
Fund's total assets would be in investments that are illiquid;
(iii) Sell any security short, unless it owns or has the right to obtain
securities equivalent in kind and amount to the securities sold or unless it
covers such short sales as required by the current rules or positions of the SEC
or its staff. Transactions in futures contracts and options shall not
constitute selling securities short; or
(iv) Purchase securities on margin, but the Fund may obtain such short term
credits as may be necessary for the clearance of transactions.
NON-FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS - INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND AND
DIVERSIFIED FUND. The investment restrictions described below are not
fundamental policies of these Funds or their corresponding Portfolios and may be
changed by their respective Trustees. These non-fundamental investment policies
require that each such Fund may not:
(i) purchase any equity security if, as a result, the Fund would then have more
than 5% of its total assets invested in securities of companies (including
predecessors) that have been in continuous operation for fewer than three years;
(ii) invest in warrants (other than warrants acquired by the Fund as part of a
unit or attached to securities at the time of purchase) if, as a result, the
investments (valued at the lower of cost or market) would exceed 5% of the value
of the Fund's net assets or if, as a result, more than 2% of the Fund's net
assets would be invested in warrants not listed on a recognized U.S. or foreign
stock exchange, to the extent permitted by applicable state securities laws; or
(iii) invest in any securities issued by an issuer any of whose officers,
directors, trustees or security holders is an officer or Trustee of the Trust,
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<PAGE>
or is an officer of the Advisor, if after the Portfolio's purchase of the
securities of such issuer, one or more of such persons owns beneficially more
than 1/2 of 1% of the shares or securities, or both, all taken at market value,
of such issuer, and such persons owning more than 1/2 of 1% of such shares or
securities together own beneficially more than 5% of such shares or securities,
or both, all taken at market value.
NON-FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS - EQUITY FUND AND CAPITAL
APPRECIATION FUND. The investment restrictions described below are not
fundamental policies of these Funds or their corresponding Portfolios and may be
changed by their respective Trustees. These non-fundamental investment policies
require that each such Fund may not:
(i) invest in warrants (other than warrants acquired by the Fund as part of a
unit or attached to securities at the time of purchase) if, as a result, the
investments (valued at the lower of cost or market) would exceed 5% of the value
of the Fund's net assets or if, as a result, more than 2% of the Fund's net
assets would be invested in warrants not listed on a recognized U.S. or foreign
stock exchange, to the extent permitted by applicable state securities laws; or
(ii) invest in any securities issued by an issuer any of whose officers,
directors, trustees or security holders is an officer or Trustee of the Trust,
or is an officer of the Advisor, if after the Portfolio's purchase of the
securities of such issuer, one or more of such persons owns beneficially more
than 1/2 of 1% of the shares or securities, or both, all taken at market value,
of such issuer, and such persons owning more than 1/2 of 1% of such shares or
securities together own beneficially more than 5% of such shares or securities,
or both, all taken at market value.
NON-FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS - EQUITY FUND, CAPITAL APPRECIATION
FUND AND DIVERSIFIED FUND. The investment restrictions described below are not
fundamental policies of these Funds or their corresponding Portfolios and may be
changed by their respective Trustees. These non-fundamental investment policies
require that each such Fund may not:
(i) invest in real estate limited partnership interests; or
(ii) invest in oil, gas or other mineral leases.
NON-FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS - EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND,
EUROPEAN EQUITY FUND AND ASIA GROWTH FUND. The investment restrictions
described below are not fundamental policies of these Funds or their
corresponding Portfolios and may be changed by their respective Trustees. These
non-fundamental investment policies require that each such Fund may not:
(i) Acquire securities of other investment companies, except as permitted by the
1940 Act or any rule, order or interpretation thereunder, or in connection with
a merger, consolidation, reorganization, acquisition of assets or an offer of
exchange;
(ii) Acquire any illiquid securities, such as repurchase agreements with more
than seven days to maturity or fixed time deposits with a duration of over seven
calendar days, if as a result thereof, more than 15% of the market value of the
Fund's total assets would be in investments that are illiquid;
(iii) Purchase any security if, as a result, the Fund would then have more than
5% of its total assets invested in securities of companies (including
predecessors) that have been in continuous operation for fewer than three years;
(iv) Invest in warrants (other than warrants acquired by the Fund as part of a
unit or attached to securities at the time of purchase) if, as a result, the
investments (valued at the lower of cost or market) would exceed 5% of the value
46
<PAGE>
of the Fund's net assets or if, as a result, more than 2% of the Fund's net
assets would be invested in warrants not listed on a recognized U.S. or foreign
stock exchange, to the extent permitted by applicable state securities laws;
(v) Sell any security short, unless it owns or has the right to obtain
securities equivalent in kind and amount to the securities sold or unless it
covers such short sales as required by the current rules or positions of the SEC
or its staff. Transactions in futures contracts and options shall not
constitute selling securities short;
(vi) Purchase securities on margin, but the Fund may obtain such short term
credits as may be necessary for the clearance of transactions;
(vii) Purchase or retain securities of any issuer if, to the knowledge of the
Fund, any of the Fund's officers or Trustees or any officer of the Portfolio's
investment adviser individually owns more than 1/2 of 1% of the issuer's
outstanding securities and such persons owning more than 1/2 of 1% of such
securities together beneficially own more than 5% of such securities, all taken
at market; or
(viii) Invest in real estate limited partnerships or purchase interests in oil,
gas or mineral exploration or development programs or leases.
NON-FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS - JAPAN EQUITY FUND. The
investment restrictions described below are not fundamental policies of the
Japan Equity Fund or its corresponding Portfolio and may be changed by its
Trustees. These non-fundamental investment policies require that the Japan
Equity Fund may not:
(i) Acquire securities of other investment companies, except as permitted by the
1940 Act or any rule, order or interpretation thereunder, or in connection with
a merger, consolidation, reorganization, acquisition of assets or an offer of
exchange;
(ii) Acquire any illiquid securities if as a result thereof, more than 15% of
the market value of the Fund's total assets would be in investments that are
illiquid;
(iii) Purchase any security if, as a result, the Fund would then have more than
5% of its total assets invested in securities of companies (including
predecessors) that have been in continuous operation for fewer than three years;
(iv) Sell any security short, unless it owns or has the right to obtain
securities equivalent in kind and amount to the securities sold or unless it
covers such short sales as required by the current rules or positions of the
Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff. Transactions in futures
contracts and options shall not constitute selling securities short;
(v) Purchase or retain securities of any issuer if, to the knowledge of the
Fund, any of the Fund's officers or Trustees or any officer of the Portfolio's
investment adviser individually owns more than 1/2 of 1% of the issuer's
outstanding securities and such persons owning more than 1/2 of 1% of such
securities together beneficially own more than 5% of such securities, all taken
at market;
(vi) Purchase securities on margin, but the Fund may obtain such short term
credits as may be necessary for the clearance of transactions; or
(vii) Invest in real estate limited partnerships or purchase interests in oil,
gas or mineral exploration or development programs or leases.
NON-FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS - INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES
FUND. The investment restrictions described below are not fundamental policies
of the
47
<PAGE>
Fund and its corresponding Portfolio and may be changed by the Trustees. These
non-fundamental investment policies require that the Fund may not:
(i) Acquire securities of other investment companies, except as permitted by
the 1940 Act or any rule, order or interpretation thereunder, or in connection
with a merger, consolidation, reorganization, acquisition of assets or an offer
of exchange;
(ii) Acquire any illiquid securities, such as repurchase agreements with more
than seven days to maturity or fixed time deposits with a duration of over seven
calendar days, if as a result thereof, more than 15% of the market value of the
Fund's total assets would be in investments that are illiquid;
(iii) Sell any security short, except to the extent permitted by the 1940 Act.
Transactions in futures contracts and options shall not constitute selling
securities short; or
(iv) Purchase securities on margin, but the Fund may obtain such short term
credits as may be necessary for the clearance of transactions.
ALL FUNDS. There will be no violation of any investment restriction if
that restriction is complied with at the time the relevant action is taken
notwithstanding a later change in market value of an investment, in net or total
assets, in the securities rating of the investment, or any other later change.
For purposes of fundamental investment restrictions regarding industry
concentration, Morgan may classify issuers by industry in accordance with
classifications set forth in the DIRECTORY OF COMPANIES FILING ANNUAL REPORTS
WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION or other sources. In the absence of
such classification or if Morgan determines in good faith based on its own
information that the economic characteristics affecting a particular issuer make
it more appropriately considered to be engaged in a different industry, Morgan
may classify an issuer accordingly. For instance, personal credit finance
companies and business credit finance companies are deemed to be separate
industries and wholly owned finance companies are considered to be in the
industry of their parents if their activities are primarily related to financing
the activities of their parents.
TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS
TRUSTEES
The Trustees of the Trust, who are also the Trustees of each of the
Portfolios, their business addresses, principal occupations during the past five
years and dates of birth are set forth below.
FREDERICK S. ADDY----Trustee; Retired; Executive Vice President and Chief
Financial Officer from January 1990 to April 1994, Amoco Corporation. His
address is 5300 Arbutus Cove, Austin, TX 78746, and his date of birth is
January 1, 1932.
WILLIAM G. BURNS----Trustee; Retired, Former Vice Chairman and Chief
Financial Officer, NYNEX. His address is 2200 Alaqua Drive, Longwood, FL 32779,
and his date of birth is November 2, 1932.
ARTHUR C. ESCHENLAUER----Trustee; Retired; Senior Vice President, Morgan
Guaranty Trust Company of New York until 1987. His address is 14 Alta Vista
Drive, RD #2, Princeton, NJ 08540, and his date of birth is May 23, 1934.
MATTHEW HEALEY (*)----Trustee, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer;
Chairman, Pierpont Group, Inc., since 1989. His address is Pine Tree Club
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<PAGE>
Estates, 10286 Saint Andrews Road, Boynton Beach, FL 33436, and his date of
birth is August 23, 1937.
MICHAEL P. MALLARDI----Trustee; Retired; Senior Vice President, Capital
Cities/ABC, Inc. and President, Broadcast Group prior to April 1996. His
address is 10 Charnwood Drive, Suffern, NY 10910, and his date of birth is
March 17, 1934.
________________________
(*) Mr. Healey is an "interested person" of the Trust and each Portfolio as that
term is defined in the 1940 Act.
The Trustees of the Trust are the same as the Trustees of each of the
Portfolios. In accordance with applicable state requirements, a majority of the
disinterested Trustees have adopted written procedures reasonably appropriate to
deal with potential conflicts of interest arising from the fact that the same
individuals are Trustees of the Trust, each of the Portfolios and The JPM
Institutional Funds, up to and including creating a separate board of trustees.
Each Trustee is currently paid an annual fee of $65,000 (adjusted as of
April 1, 1995) for serving as Trustee of the Trust, each of the Master
Portfolios (as defined below), The JPM Institutional Funds and JPM Series Trust
and is reimbursed for expenses incurred in connection with service as a Trustee.
The compensation paid to the Trustees for the calendar year ended December 31,
1995 is set forth below. The Trustees may hold various other directorships
unrelated to these funds.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TOTAL COMPENSATION FROM THE
AGGREGATE PENSION OR TRUST, THE JPM INSTITUTIONAL
COMPENSATION RETIREMENT BENEFITS ESTIMATED ANNUAL FUNDS AND CORRESPONDING
FROM THE TRUST ACCRUED AS PART BENEFITS PORTFOLIOS(**) PAID
NAME OF TRUSTEE DURING 1995 OF FUND EXPENSES UPON RETIREMENT TO TRUSTEES DURING 1995
--------------- ----------- ---------------- --------------- -----------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Frederick S. Addy, Trustee $18,791 None None $62,500
William G. Burns, Trustee $18,791 None None $62,500
Arthur C. Eschenlauer, Trustee $18,791 None None $62,500
Matthew Healey, Trustee(*), $18,791 None None $62,500
Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer
Michael P. Mallardi, Trustee $18,791 None None $62,500
</TABLE>
(*) During 1995, Pierpont Group, Inc. paid Mr. Healey, in his role as Chairman
of Pierpont Group, Inc., compensation in the amount of $140,000, contributed
$21,000 to a defined contribution plan on his behalf and paid $20,000 in
insurance premiums for his benefit.
(**) Includes the Portfolios, The Non-U.S. Fixed Income Portfolio and The
Disciplined Equity Portfolio (collectively the "Master Portfolios").
As of the date of this Statement of Additional Information there were 17
investment companies (the Trust, The JPM Institutional Funds, the 14 investment
companies comprising the Master Portfolios and JPM Series Trust) in the fund
complex.
The Trustees, in addition to reviewing actions of the Trust's and the
Portfolios' various service providers, decide upon matters of general policy.
Each of the Portfolios and the Trust has entered into a Fund Services Agreement
with Pierpont Group, Inc. to assist the Trustees in exercising their overall
supervisory responsibilities over the affairs of the Portfolios and the Trust.
Pierpont Group, Inc. was organized in July 1989 to provide services for The
Pierpont Family of Funds, and the Trustees are the equal and sole shareholders
of Pierpont Group, Inc. The Trust and the Portfolios have agreed to pay
Pierpont
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<PAGE>
Group, Inc. a fee in an amount representing its reasonable costs in performing
these services. These costs are periodically reviewed by the Trustees.
The aggregate fees paid to Pierpont Group, Inc. by each Fund (including any
Fund's predecessor) and its corresponding Portfolio during the indicated fiscal
years are set forth below:
MONEY MARKET FUND -- For the fiscal year ended November 30, 1993: $730,354. For
the fiscal year ended November 30, 1994: $302,195. For the fiscal year ended
November 30, 1995: $193,838.
THE MONEY MARKET PORTFOLIO -- For the fiscal year ended November 30, 1994:
$246,089. For the fiscal year ended November 30, 1995: $261,045.
TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET FUND -- For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1994:
$175,737. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1995: $101,846. For the fiscal
year ended August 31, 1996: $53,896.
THE TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET PORTFOLIO -- For the fiscal year ended August 31,
1994: $79,046. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1995: $110,325. For the
fiscal year ended August 31, 1996: $62,310.
TREASURY MONEY MARKET FUND -- For the period January 4, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through October 31, 1993: $10,954. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1994: $16,086. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: $14,332.
THE TREASURY MONEY MARKET PORTFOLIO -- For the fiscal year ended October 31,
1994: $17,104. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: $22,791.
SHORT TERM BOND FUND -- For the period July 8, 1993 (commencement of operations)
through October 31, 1993: $176. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994:
$952. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: $823.
THE SHORT TERM BOND PORTFOLIO -- For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994:
$4,545. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: $5,573.
TAX EXEMPT BOND FUND -- For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1994: $80,810. For
the fiscal year ended August 31, 1995: $35,144. For the fiscal year ended
August 31, 1996: $20,062.
THE TAX EXEMPT BOND PORTFOLIO -- For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1994:
$35,243. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1995: $38,804. For the fiscal
year ended August 31, 1996: $24,602.
NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND -- For the period April 11, 1994 (commencement
of operations) through March 31, 1995: $2,847. For the fiscal year ended
March 31, 1996: $3,108.
THE NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND PORTFOLIO -- For the period April 11, 1994
(commencement of operations) through March 31, 1995: $4,140. For the fiscal
year ended March 31, 1996: $5,530.
BOND FUND -- For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1993: $24,552. For the
fiscal year ended October 31, 1994: $15,491. For the fiscal year ended October
31, 1995: $11,376.
THE U.S. FIXED INCOME PORTFOLIO -- For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994:
$23,028. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: $40,729.
EQUITY FUND -- For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1994: $48,660. For the fiscal
year ended May 31, 1995: $25,316. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1996:
$20,190.
THE SELECTED U.S. EQUITY PORTFOLIO -- For the period July 19, 1993 (commencement
of operations) through May 31, 1994: $20,385. For the fiscal year ended May 31,
1995: $52,948. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1996: $46,626.
CAPITAL APPRECIATION FUND -- For the fiscal year ended through May 31, 1994:
$47,244. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1995: $19,612. For the fiscal year
ended May 31, 1996: $13,451.
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<PAGE>
THE U.S. SMALL COMPANY PORTFOLIO -- For the period July 19, 1993 (commencement
of operations) through May 31, 1994: $33,435. For the fiscal year ended May
31, 1995: $62,256. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1996: $48,688.
INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND -- For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1993:
$23,909. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994: $27,503. For the fiscal
year ended October 31, 1995: $18,131.
THE NON-U.S. EQUITY PORTFOLIO -- For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994:
$32,512. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: $48,442.
DIVERSIFIED FUND -- For the period July 8, 1993 (commencement of operations)
through June 30, 1994: $247. For the fiscal year ended June 30, 1995: $1,437.
For the fiscal year ended June 30, 1996: $2,212.
THE DIVERSIFIED PORTFOLIO -- For the period July 8, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through June 30, 1994: $3,434. For the fiscal year ended June 30,
1995: $11,702. For the fiscal year ended June 30, 1996: $13,109.
EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND -- For the period November 15 (commencement of
operations) through October 31, 1994: $4,331. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1995: $4,544.
THE EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY PORTFOLIO -- For the fiscal year ended October 31,
1994: $42,764. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: $53,162.
EUROPEAN EQUITY PORTFOLIO -- For the period March 28, 1995 (commencement of
operations) through December 31, 1995: $19,953. For the six months ended
June 30, 1996: $14,050 (unaudited).
EUROPEAN EQUITY FUND -- For the period May 13, 1996 (commencement of operations)
through June 30, 1996: $0 (unaudited).
JAPAN EQUITY PORTFOLIO -- For the period March 28, 1995 (commencement of
operations) through December 31, 1995: $21,727. For the six months ended
June 30, 1996: $13,641 (unaudited).
JAPAN EQUITY FUND -- For the period May 6, 1996 (commencement of operations)
through June 30, 1996: $1 (unaudited).
ASIA GROWTH PORTFOLIO -- For the period April 5, 1995 (commencement of
operations) through December 31, 1995: $4,788. For the six months ended
June 30, 1996: $2,840 (unaudited).
ASIA GROWTH FUND -- For the period May 13, 1996 (commencement of operations)
through June 30, 1996: $0 (unaudited).
OFFICERS
The Trust's and Portfolios' executive officers (listed below), other than
the Chief Executive Officer, are provided and compensated by Funds Distributor,
Inc. ("FDI"), a wholly owned indirect subsidiary of Boston Institutional Group,
Inc. The officers conduct and supervise the business operations of the Trust
and the Portfolios. The Trust and the Portfolios have no employees.
The officers of the Trust and the Portfolios, their principal occupations
during the past five years and dates of birth are set forth below. Unless
otherwise specified, each officer holds the same position with the Trust and
each Portfolio. The business address of each of the officers unless otherwise
noted is Funds Distributor, Inc., 60 State Street, Suite 1300, Boston,
Massachusetts 02109.
MATTHEW HEALEY; Chief Executive Officer; Chairman, Pierpont Group, Inc.,
since 1989. His address is Pine Tree Club Estates, 10286 Saint Andrews Road,
Boynton Beach, FL 33436.
ELIZABETH A. KEELEY; Vice President and Assistant Secretary. Counsel, FDI
and Premier Mutual Fund Services, Inc. ("Premier Mutual") and an officer of RCM
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<PAGE>
Capital Funds, Inc., RCM Equity Funds, Inc., Waterhouse Investors Cash
Management Fund, Inc. and certain investment companies advised or administered
by the Dreyfus Corporation ("Dreyfus"). Prior to September 1995, Ms. Keeley was
enrolled at Fordham University School of Law and received her JD in May 1995.
Prior to September 1992, Ms. Keeley was an assistant at the National Association
for Public Interest Law. Address: FDI, 200 Park Avenue, New York, New York
10166. Her date of birth is September 14, 1969.
MARIE E. CONNOLLY; Vice President and Assistant Treasurer. President and
Chief Executive Officer and Director of FDI, Premier Mutual and an officer of
RCM Capital Funds, Inc., RCM Equity Funds, Inc. and certain investment companies
advised or administered by Dreyfus. From December 1991 to July 1994, she was
President and Chief Compliance Officer of FDI. Prior to December 1991, she
served as Vice President and Controller, and later as Senior Vice President of
The Boston Company Advisors, Inc. ("TBCA"). Her date of birth is August 1,
1957.
DOUGLAS C. CONROY; Vice President and Assistant Treasurer. Supervisor of
Treasury Services and Administration of FDI and an officer of certain investment
companies advised or administered by Dreyfus. From April 1993 to January 1995,
Mr. Conroy was a Senior Fund Accountant for Investors Bank & Trust Company.
Prior to March 1993, Mr. Conroy was employed as a fund accountant at The Boston
Company. His date of birth is March 31, 1969.
JACQUELINE HENNING; Assistant Secretary and Assistant Treasurer of the
Portfolios (excluding the Treasury Money Market, Tax Exempt Money Market, Tax
Exempt Bond and New York Total Return Bond Portfolios). Managing Director,
State Street Cayman Trust Company, Ltd. since October 1994. Prior to October
1994, Mrs. Henning was head of mutual funds at Morgan Grenfell in Cayman and for
five years was Managing Director of Bank of Nova Scotia Trust Company (Cayman)
Limited from September 1988 to September 1993. Address: P.O. Box 2508 GT,
Elizabethan Square, 2nd Floor, Shedden Road, George Town, Grand Cayman, Cayman
Islands. Her date of birth is March 24, 1942.
RICHARD W. INGRAM; President and Treasurer. Senior Vice President and
Director of Client Services and Treasury Administration of FDI, Senior Vice
President of Premier Mutual and an officer of RCM Capital Funds, Inc., RCM
Equity Funds, Inc., Waterhouse Investors Cash Management Fund, Inc. and certain
investment companies advised or administered by Dreyfus. From March 1994 to
November 1995, Mr. Ingram was Vice President and Division Manager of First Data
Investor Services Group, Inc. From 1989 to 1994, Mr. Ingram was Vice President,
Assistant Treasurer and Tax Director - Mutual Funds of The Boston Company. His
date of birth is September 15, 1955.
KAREN JACOPPO-WOOD; Vice President and Assistant Secretary. Assistant Vice
President of FDI and an officer of RCM Capital Funds, Inc. and RCM Equity Funds,
Inc. From June 1994 to January 1996, Ms. Jacoppo was a Manager, SEC
Registration, Scudder, Stevens & Clark, Inc. From 1988 to May 1994, Ms. Jacoppo
was a senior paralegal at TBCA. Her date of birth is December 29, 1966.
CHRISTOPHER J. KELLEY; Vice President and Assistant Secretary. Vice
President and Associate General Counsel of FDI. From April 1994 to July 1996,
Mr. Kelley was Assistant Counsel at Forum Financial Group. From 1992 to 1994,
Mr. Kelley was employed by Putnam Investments in legal and compliance
capacities. Prior to September 1992, Mr. Kelley was enrolled at Boston College
Law School and received his JD in May 1992. His date of birth is December 24,
1964.
LENORE J. MCCABE; Assistant Secretary and Assistant Treasurer of the
Portfolios (excluding the Treasury Money Market, Tax Exempt Money Market, Tax
Exempt Bond and New York Total Return Bond Portfolios). Assistant Vice
President, State Street Bank and Trust Company since November 1994. Assigned as
Operations Manager, State Street Cayman Trust Company, Ltd. since February 1995.
Prior to November, 1994, employed by Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. as
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<PAGE>
Control Group Manager. Address: P.O. Box 2508 GT, Elizabethan Square, 2nd
Floor, Shedden Road, George Town, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands. Her date of
birth is May 31, 1961.
MARY A. NELSON; Vice President and Assistant Treasurer. Vice President and
Manager of Treasury Services and Administration of FDI, an officer of RCM
Capital Funds, Inc., RCM Equity Funds, Inc. and certain investment companies
advised or administered by Dreyfus. From 1989 to 1994, Ms. Nelson as an
Assistant Vice President and client manager for The Boston Company. Her date of
birth is April 22, 1964.
JOHN E. PELLETIER; Vice President and Secretary. Senior Vice President and
General Counsel of FDI and Premier Mutual and an officer of RCM Capital Funds,
Inc., RCM Equity Funds, Inc., Waterhouse Investors Cash Management Fund, Inc.
and certain investment companies advised or administered by Dreyfus. From
February 1992 to April 1994, Mr. Pelletier served as Counsel for TBCA. From
August 1990 to February 1992, Mr. Pelletier was employed as an Associate at
Ropes & Gray. His date of birth is June 24, 1964.
JOSEPH F. TOWER III; Vice President and Assistant Treasurer. Senior Vice
President, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of FDI and Premier Mutual and
an officer of Waterhouse Investors Cash Management Fund, Inc. and certain
investment companies advised or administered by Dreyfus. From July 1988 to
November 1993, Mr. Tower was Financial Manager of The Boston Company. His date
of birth is June 13, 1962.
INVESTMENT ADVISOR
The investment advisor to the Portfolios is Morgan Guaranty Trust Company
of New York, a wholly owned subsidiary of J.P. Morgan & Co. Incorporated ("J.P.
Morgan"), a bank holding company organized under the laws of the State of
Delaware. The Advisor, whose principal offices are at 60 Wall Street, New York,
New York 10260, is a New York trust company which conducts a general banking and
trust business. The Advisor is subject to regulation by the New York State
Banking Department and is a member bank of the Federal Reserve System. Through
offices in New York City and abroad, the Advisor offers a wide range of
services, primarily to governmental, institutional, corporate and high net worth
individual customers in the United States and throughout the world.
J.P. Morgan, through the Advisor and other subsidiaries, acts as investment
advisor to individuals, governments, corporations, employee benefit plans,
mutual funds and other institutional investors with combined assets under
management of $197 billion (of which the Advisor advises over $30 billion).
J.P. Morgan has a long history of service as adviser, underwriter and
lender to an extensive roster of major companies and as a financial advisor to
national governments. The firm, through its predecessor firms, has been in
business for over a century and has been managing investments since 1913.
The basis of the Advisor's investment process is fundamental investment
research as the firm believes that fundamentals should determine an asset's
value over the long term. J.P. Morgan currently employs over 100 full time
research analysts, among the largest research staffs in the money management
industry, in its investment management divisions located in New York, London,
Tokyo, Frankfurt, Melbourne and Singapore to cover companies, industries and
countries on site. In addition, the investment management divisions employ
approximately 300 capital market researchers, portfolio managers and traders.
The conclusions of the equity analysts' fundamental research is quantified into
a set of projected returns for individual companies through the use of a
dividend discount model. These returns are projected for 2 to 5 years to enable
analysts to take a longer term view. These returns, or normalized earnings, are
used to establish relative values among stocks in each industrial sector. These
values may not be
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the same as the markets' current valuations of these companies. This provides
the basis for ranking the attractiveness of the companies in an industry
according to five distinct quintiles or rankings. This ranking is one of the
factors considered in determining the stocks purchased and sold in each sector.
The Advisor's fixed income investment process is based on analysis of real
rates, sector diversification and quantitative and credit analysis.
The investment advisory services the Advisor provides to the Portfolios are
not exclusive under the terms of the Advisory Agreements. The Advisor is free
to and does render similar investment advisory services to others. The Advisor
serves as investment advisor to personal investors and other investment
companies and acts as fiduciary for trusts, estates and employee benefit plans.
Certain of the assets of trusts and estates under management are invested in
common trust funds for which the Advisor serves as trustee. The accounts which
are managed or advised by the Advisor have varying investment objectives and the
Advisor invests assets of such accounts in investments substantially similar to,
or the same as, those which are expected to constitute the principal investments
of the Portfolios. Such accounts are supervised by officers and employees of
the Advisor who may also be acting in similar capacities for the Portfolios.
See "Portfolio Transactions."
Sector weightings are generally similar to a benchmark with the emphasis on
security selection as the method to achieve investment performance superior to
the benchmark. The benchmarks for the Portfolios in which the Funds invest are
currently: The Money Market Portfolio--IBC/Donoghue's Tier-One Money Fund
Average; The Treasury Money Market Portfolio--IBC/Donoghue's U.S. Government and
Agency Money Fund Average; The Tax Exempt Money Market Portfolio--IBC/Donoghue's
Tax Exempt Money Fund Average; The Short Term Bond Portfolio--Merrill Lynch
1-3 Year Treasury Index; The U.S. Fixed Income Portfolio--Salomon Brothers Broad
Investment Grade Bond Index; The Tax Exempt Bond Portfolio--Lehman Brothers
Quality Intermediate Municipal Bond Index; The New York Total Return Bond
Portfolio--Lehman Brothers New York 1-15 Year Municipal Bond Index; The Selected
U.S. Equity Portfolio--S&P 500 Index; The U.S. Small Company Portfolio--Russell
2500 Index; The Non-U.S. Equity Portfolio--EAFE Index; The Emerging Markets
Equity Portfolio--MSCI Emerging Markets Free Index; The International
Opportunities Portfolio--EAFE and MSCI Emerging Markets Free Indexes; The
Diversified Portfolio--diversified benchmark (52% S&P 500, 35% Salomon Brothers
Broad Investment Grade Bond, 3% Russell 2000 and 10% EAFE indexes); The European
Equity Portfolio--the MSCI Europe Index; The Japan Equity Portfolio--the TOPIX;
and The Asia Growth Portfolio--the MSCI indexes for Hong Kong and Singapore and
the International Finance Corporation Investable indexes for China, Indonesia,
Malaysia, Philippines, South Korea, Taiwan and Thailand.
J.P. Morgan Investment Management Inc., also a wholly owned subsidiary of
J.P. Morgan, is a registered investment adviser under the Investment Advisers
Act of 1940, as amended, which manages employee benefit funds of corporations,
labor unions and state and local governments and the accounts of other
institutional investors, including investment companies. Certain of the assets
of employee benefit accounts under its management are invested in commingled
pension trust funds for which the Advisor serves as trustee. J.P. Morgan
Investment Management Inc. advises the Advisor on investment of the commingled
pension trust funds.
The Portfolios are managed by officers of the Advisor who, in acting for
their customers, including the Portfolios, do not discuss their investment
decisions with any personnel of J.P. Morgan or any personnel of other divisions
of the Advisor or with any of its affiliated persons, with the exception of J.P.
Morgan Investment Management Inc.
As compensation for the services rendered and related expenses such as
salaries of advisory personnel borne by the Advisor under the Advisory
Agreements, the Portfolio corresponding to each Fund has agreed to pay the
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Advisor a fee, which is computed daily and may be paid monthly, equal to the
annual rates of each Portfolio's average daily net assets shown below.
MONEY MARKET: 0.20% of net assets up to $1 billion and 0.10% of net assets in
excess of $1 billion
TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET: 0.20% of net assets up to $1 billion and 0.10% of net
assets in excess of $1 billion
TREASURY MONEY MARKET: 0.20% of net assets up to $1 billion and 0.10% of net
assets in excess of $1 billion
SHORT TERM BOND: 0.25%
U.S. FIXED INCOME: 0.30%
TAX EXEMPT BOND: 0.30%
NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND: 0.30%
SELECTED U.S. EQUITY: 0.40%
U.S. SMALL COMPANY: 0.60%
NON-U.S. EQUITY: 0.60%
DIVERSIFIED: 0.55%
EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY: 1.00%
INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES: 0.60%
EUROPEAN EQUITY: 0.65%
JAPAN EQUITY: 0.65%
ASIA GROWTH: 0.80%
The table below sets forth for the predecessor of each Fund listed below
(for the indicated fiscal years) the advisory fees, net of fee waivers and
reimbursements, paid by the Fund (expressed as an aggregate amount of the Fund's
average daily net assets) and the advisory fees waived or reimbursed by the
Advisor for the Fund (expressed as an aggregate amount), in each case prior to
such Fund's reorganization. See "Expenses" in the Prospectus and below for
applicable expense limitations.
Money Market: Nov. 1993 - net amount paid: $2,244,381; amount waived: $0.
Bond: Oct. 1993 - net amount paid: $149,804; amount waived: $25,312.
International Equity: May 1993 - net amount paid: $359,813; amount waived:
$27,018.
The table below sets forth for each Fund listed the advisory fees paid by
its corresponding Portfolio to the Advisor following the Fund's reorganization
or commencement of operations and its corresponding Portfolio's commencement of
operations. See "Expenses" in the Prospectus and below for applicable expense
limitations.
THE MONEY MARKET PORTFOLIO (Money Market Fund) -- For the period July 12, 1993
(commencement of operations) through November 30, 1993: $1,370,552. For the
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fiscal year ended November 30, 1994: $3,423,576. For the fiscal year ended
November 30, 1995: $3,913,479.
THE TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET PORTFOLIO (Tax Exempt Money Market Fund) -- For the
fiscal year ended August 31, 1994: $2,021,476. For the fiscal year ended
August 31, 1995: $2,150,291. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1996:
$2,154,248.
THE TREASURY MONEY MARKET PORTFOLIO (Treasury Money Market Fund) -- For the
period January 4, 1993 (commencement of operations) through October 31, 1993:
$93,370. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994: $339,521. For the fiscal
year ended October 31, 1995: $492,941.
THE SHORT TERM BOND PORTFOLIO (Short Term Bond Fund) -- For the period July 8,
1993 (commencement of operations) through October 31, 1993: $10,427. For the
fiscal year ended October 31, 1994: $113,379. For the fiscal year ended October
31, 1995: $146,335.
THE U.S. FIXED INCOME PORTFOLIO (Bond Fund) -- For the period July 12, 1993
(commencement of operations) through October 31, 1993: $119,488. For the fiscal
year ended October 31, 1994: $699,081. For the fiscal year ended October 31,
1995: $1,339,147.
THE TAX EXEMPT BOND PORTFOLIO (Tax Exempt Bond Fund) -- For the fiscal year
ended August 31, 1994: $1,383,986. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1995:
$1,178,720. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1996: $1,354,145.
THE NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND PORTFOLIO (New York Total Return Bond Fund) --
For the period April 11, 1994 (commencement of operations) through March 31,
1995: $120,281. For the fiscal year ended March 31, 1996: $246,966.
THE SELECTED U.S. EQUITY PORTFOLIO (Equity Fund) -- For the period July 19, 1993
(commencement of operations) through May 31, 1994: $1,263,048. For the fiscal
year ended May 31, 1995: $2,025,936. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1996:
$2,744,054.
THE U.S. SMALL COMPANY PORTFOLIO (Capital Appreciation Fund) -- For the period
July 19, 1993 (commencement of operations) through May 31, 1994: $2,912,670.
For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1995: $3,514,331. For the fiscal year ended
May 31, 1996: $4,286,311.
THE NON-U.S. EQUITY PORTFOLIO (International Equity Fund) -- For the period
October 4, 1993 (commencement of operations) through October 31, 1993: $78,550.
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994: $1,911,202. For the fiscal year
ended October 31, 1995: $3,174,965.
THE DIVERSIFIED PORTFOLIO (Diversified Fund) -- For the period July 8, 1993
(commencement of operations) through June 30, 1994: $197,026. For the fiscal
year ended June 30, 1995: $663,000. For the fiscal year ended June 30, 1996:
$1,122,941.
THE EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY PORTFOLIO (Emerging Markets Equity Fund) -- For the
period November 15, 1993 (commencement of operations) through October 31, 1994:
$4,122,465. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: $5,713,506.
EUROPEAN EQUITY PORTFOLIO (European Equity Fund) -- For the period March 28,
1995 (commencement of operations) through December 31, 1995: $1,675,355. For
the six months ended June 30, 1996: $1,670,174 (unaudited).
JAPAN EQUITY PORTFOLIO (Japan Equity Fund) -- For the period March 28, 1995
(commencement of operations) through December 31, 1995: $1,777,126. For the six
months ended June 30, 1996: $1,581,190 (unaudited).
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ASIA GROWTH PORTFOLIO (Asia Growth Fund) -- For the period April 5, 1995
(commencement of operations) through December 31, 1995: $528,956. For the six
months ended June 30, 1996: $414,049 (unaudited).
The Investment Advisory Agreements provide that they will continue in
effect for a period of two years after execution only if specifically approved
thereafter annually in the same manner as the Distribution Agreement. See
"Distributor" below. Each of the Investment Advisory Agreements will terminate
automatically if assigned and is terminable at any time without penalty by a
vote of a majority of the Portfolio's Trustees, or by a vote of the holders of a
majority of the Portfolio's outstanding voting securities, on 60 days' written
notice to the Advisor and by the Advisor on 90 days' written notice to the
Portfolio. See "Additional Information."
The Glass-Steagall Act and other applicable laws generally prohibit banks
such as the Advisor from engaging in the business of underwriting or
distributing securities, and the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve
System has issued an interpretation to the effect that under these laws a bank
holding company registered under the federal Bank Holding Company Act or certain
subsidiaries thereof may not sponsor, organize, or control a registered open-end
investment company continuously engaged in the issuance of its shares, such as
the Trust. The interpretation does not prohibit a holding company or a
subsidiary thereof from acting as investment advisor and custodian to such an
investment company. The Advisor believes that it may perform the services for
the Portfolios contemplated by the Advisory Agreements without violation of the
Glass-Steagall Act or other applicable banking laws or regulations. State laws
on this issue may differ from the interpretation of relevant federal law, and
banks and financial institutions may be required to register as dealers pursuant
to state securities laws. However, it is possible that future changes in either
federal or state statutes and regulations concerning the permissible activities
of banks or trust companies, as well as further judicial or administrative
decisions and interpretations of present and future statutes and regulations,
might prevent the Advisor from continuing to perform such services for the
Portfolios.
If the Advisor were prohibited from acting as investment advisor to any
Portfolio, it is expected that the Trustees of the Portfolio would recommend to
investors that they approve the Portfolio's entering into a new investment
advisory agreement with another qualified investment advisor selected by the
Trustees.
Under separate agreements, Morgan also provides certain financial, fund
accounting and administrative services to the Trust and the Portfolios and
shareholder services for the Trust. See "Services Agent" and "Shareholder
Servicing" below.
DISTRIBUTOR
FDI serves as the Trust's exclusive Distributor and holds itself available
to receive purchase orders for each of the Fund's shares. In that capacity, FDI
has been granted the right, as agent of the Trust, to solicit and accept orders
for the purchase of each of the Fund's shares in accordance with the terms of
the Distribution Agreement between the Trust and FDI. Under the terms of the
Distribution Agreement between FDI and the Trust, FDI receives no compensation
in its capacity as the Trust's distributor.
The Distribution Agreement shall continue in effect with respect to each of
the Funds for a period of two years after execution only if it is approved at
least annually thereafter (i) by a vote of the holders of a majority of the
Fund's outstanding shares or by its Trustees and (ii) by a vote of a majority of
the Trustees of the Trust who are not "interested persons" (as defined by the
1940 Act) of the parties to the Distribution Agreement, cast in person at a
meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval (see "Trustees and
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<PAGE>
Officers"). The Distribution Agreement will terminate automatically if assigned
by either party thereto and is terminable at any time without penalty by a vote
of a majority of the Trustees of the Trust, a vote of a majority of the Trustees
who are not "interested persons" of the Trust, or by a vote of the holders of a
majority of the Fund's outstanding shares as defined under "Additional
Information," in any case without payment of any penalty on 60 days' written
notice to the other party. The principal offices of FDI are located at 60 State
Street, Suite 1300, Boston, Massachusetts 02109.
CO-ADMINISTRATOR
Under Co-Administration Agreements with the Trust and the Portfolios dated
August 1, 1996, FDI also serves as the Trust's and the Portfolios'
Co-Administrator. The Co-Administration Agreements may be renewed or amended by
the respective Trustees without a shareholder vote. The Co-Administration
Agreements are terminable at any time without penalty by a vote of a majority of
the Trustees of the Trust or the Portfolios, as applicable, on not more than 60
days' written notice nor less than 30 days' written notice to the other party.
The Co-Administrator may subcontract for the performance of its obligations,
provided, however, that unless the Trust or the Portfolios, as applicable,
expressly agrees in writing, the Co-Administrator shall be fully responsible for
the acts and omissions of any subcontractor as it would for its own acts or
omissions. See "Services Agent" below.
For its services under the Co-Administration Agreements, each Fund and
Portfolio has agreed to pay FDI fees equal to its allocable share of an annual
complex-wide charge of $425,000 plus FDI's out-of-pocket expenses. The amount
allocable to each Fund or Portfolio is based on the ratio of its net assets to
the aggregate net assets of the Trust, The JPM Institutional Funds, the Master
Portfolios and JPM Series Trust.
The table below sets forth for each Fund listed and its corresponding
Portfolio the administrative fees paid to FDI for the fiscal periods indicated.
See "Expenses" in the Prospectus and below for applicable expense limitations.
THE TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET PORTFOLIO -- For the period August 1, 1996 through
August 31, 1996: $2,284.
TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET FUND -- For the period August 1, 1996 through August 31,
1996: $3,298.
THE TAX EXEMPT BOND PORTFOLIO -- For the period August 1, 1996 through August
31, 1996: $920.
TAX EXEMPT BOND FUND -- For the period August 1, 1996 through August 31, 1996:
$1,169.
The table below sets forth for each Fund listed and its corresponding
Portfolio the administrative fees paid to Signature Broker-Dealer Services, Inc.
(which provided distribution and administrative services to the Trust and
placement agent and administrative services to the Portfolios prior to August 1,
1996) for the fiscal periods indicated. See "Expenses" in the Prospectus and
below for applicable expense limitations.
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THE MONEY MARKET PORTFOLIO -- For the period July 12, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through November 30, 1993: $32,869. For the fiscal year ended
November 30, 1994: $165,519. For the fiscal year ended November 30, 1995:
$176,717.
MONEY MARKET FUND -- For the period July 12, 1993 (commencement of operations)
through November 30, 1993: $341,591. For the fiscal year ended November 30,
1994: $631,683. For the fiscal year ended November 30, 1995: $565,438.
THE TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET PORTFOLIO -- For the fiscal year ended August 31,
1994: $62,565. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1995: $72,729. For the
period September 1, 1995 through July 31, 1996: $110,848.
TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET FUND -- For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1994:
$306,768. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1995: $290,271. For the period
September 1, 1995 through July 31, 1996: $157,587.
THE TREASURY MONEY MARKET PORTFOLIO -- For the period January 4, 1993
(commencement of operations) through October 31, 1993: $677. For the fiscal
year ended October 31, 1994: $11,777. For the fiscal year ended October 31,
1995: $17,480.
TREASURY MONEY MARKET FUND -- For the period January 4, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through October 31, 1993: $17,014. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1994: $32,587. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: $46,000.
THE SHORT TERM BOND PORTFOLIO -- For the period July 8, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through October 31, 1993: $210. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1994: $3,149. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: $4,485.
SHORT TERM BOND FUND -- For the period July 8, 1993 (commencement of operations)
through October 31, 1993: $272. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994:
$1,839. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: $2,380.
THE U.S. FIXED INCOME PORTFOLIO -- For the period July 12, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through October 31, 1993: $950. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1994: $16,107. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: $27,436.
BOND FUND -- For the period July 12, 1993 (commencement of operations) through
October 31, 1993: $10,804. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994: $30,915.
For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: $32,901.
THE TAX EXEMPT BOND PORTFOLIO -- For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1994:
$28,345. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1995: $28,290. For the period
September 1, 1996 through July 31, 1996: $43,154.
TAX EXEMPT BOND FUND -- For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1994: $137,890.
For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1995: $97,520. For the period September 1,
1996 through July 31, 1996: $57,864.
THE NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND PORTFOLIO -- For the period April 11, 1994
(commencement of operations) through March 31, 1995: $2,563. For the fiscal
year ended March 31, 1996: $6,648.
NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND -- For the period April 11, 1994 (commencement
of operations) through March 31, 1995: $7,716. For the fiscal year ended March
31, 1996: $5,538.
THE SELECTED U.S. EQUITY PORTFOLIO -- For the period July 19, 1993 (commencement
of operations) through May 31, 1994: $19,348. For the fiscal year ended May 31,
1995: $32,670. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1996: $62,404.
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EQUITY FUND -- For the period July 19, 1993 (commencement of operations) through
May 31, 1994: $78,201. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1995: $61,903. For
the fiscal year ended May 31, 1996: $59,656.
THE U.S. SMALL COMPANY PORTFOLIO -- For the period July 19, 1993 (commencement
of operations) through May 31, 1994: $30,420. For the fiscal year ended May 31,
1995: $38,215. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1996: $65,079.
CAPITAL APPRECIATION FUND -- For the period July 19, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through May 31, 1994: $75,401. For the fiscal year ended May 31,
1995: $51,087. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1996: $39,053.
THE NON-U.S. EQUITY PORTFOLIO -- For the period October 4, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through October 31, 1993: $1,005. For the fiscal year ended October
31, 1994: $22,024. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: $31,500.
INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND -- For the period October 4, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through October 31, 1993: $3,988. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1994: $55,782. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: $52,698.
THE DIVERSIFIED PORTFOLIO -- For the period July 8, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through June 30, 1994: $2,423. For the fiscal year ended June 30,
1995: $7,770. For the fiscal year ended June 30, 1996: $19,517.
DIVERSIFIED FUND -- For the period December 15, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through June 30, 1994: $638. For the fiscal year ended June 30,
1995: $3,660. For the fiscal year ended June 30, 1996: $6,432.
THE EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY PORTFOLIO -- For the period November 15, 1993
(commencement of operations) through October 31, 1994: $30,828. For the fiscal
year ended October 31, 1995: $35,189.
EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND -- For the period November 15, 1993 (commencement
of operations) through October 31, 1994: $11,373. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1995: $12,990.
EUROPEAN EQUITY PORTFOLIO -- For the period March 28, 1995 (commencement of
operations) through December 31, 1995: $15,623. For the six months ended
June 30, 1996: $32,409 (unaudited).
EUROPEAN EQUITY FUND -- For the period May 13, 1996 (commencement of operations)
through June 30, 1996: $0 (unaudited).
JAPAN EQUITY PORTFOLIO -- For the period March 28, 1995 (commencement of
operations) through December 31, 1995: $17,418. For the six months ended
June 30, 1996: $30,693 (unaudited).
JAPAN EQUITY FUND -- For the period May 6, 1996 (commencement of operations)
through June 30, 1996: $5 (unaudited).
ASIA GROWTH PORTFOLIO -- For the period April 5, 1995 (commencement of
operations) through December 31, 1995: $4,037. For the six months ended
June 30, 1996: $6,530 (unaudited).
ASIA GROWTH FUND -- For the period May 13, 1996 (commencement of operations)
through June 30, 1996: $0 (unaudited).
SERVICES AGENT
The Trust, on behalf of each Fund, and the Portfolios have entered into
Administrative Services Agreements (the "Services Agreements") with Morgan
effective December 29, 1995, as amended effective August 1, 1996, pursuant to
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which Morgan is responsible for certain administrative and related services
provided to each Fund and its corresponding Portfolio. The Services Agreements
may be terminated at any time, without penalty, by the Trustees or Morgan, in
each case on not more than 60 days' nor less than 30 days' written notice to the
other party.
Under the amended Services Agreements, each of the Funds and the Portfolios
has agreed to pay Morgan fees equal to its allocable share of an annual complex-
wide charge. This charge is calculated daily based on the aggregate net assets
of the Master Portfolios and JPM Series Trust in accordance with the following
annual schedule: 0.09% on the first $7 billion of their aggregate average daily
net assets and 0.04% of their average daily net assets in excess of $7 billion,
less the complex-wide fees payable to FDI. The portion of this charge payable
by each Fund and Portfolio is determined by the proportionate share that its net
assets bear to the total net assets of the Trust, The JPM Institutional Funds,
the Master Portfolios, the other investors in the Master Portfolios for which
Morgan provides similar services and JPM Series Trust.
Under Administrative Services Agreements in effect from December 29, 1995
through July 31, 1996, with Morgan, each Fund and its corresponding Portfolio
paid Morgan a fee equal to its proportionate share of an annual complex-wide
charge. This charge was calculated daily based on the aggregate net assets of
the Master Portfolios in accordance with the following schedule: 0.06% of the
first $7 billion of the Master Portfolios' aggregate average daily net assets,
and 0.03% of the Master Portfolios' average daily net assets in excess of $7
billion.
Prior to December 29, 1995, the Trust and each Portfolio had entered into
Financial and Fund Accounting Services Agreements with Morgan, the provisions of
which included certain of the activities described above and, prior to
September 1, 1995, also included reimbursement of usual and customary expenses.
Fee arrangements for administrative services prior to August 1, 1996 did not
pertain to the International Opportunities Fund or its corresponding Portfolio.
The table below sets forth for each Fund listed and its corresponding Portfolio
the fees paid to Morgan, net of fee waivers and reimbursements, as Services
Agent. See "Expenses" in the Prospectus and below for applicable expense
limitations.
THE MONEY MARKET PORTFOLIO -- For the period July 12, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through November 30, 1993: $193,980. For the fiscal year ended
November 30, 1994: $385,012. For the fiscal year ended November 30, 1995:
$373,077.
MONEY MARKET FUND -- For the period July 12, 1993 (commencement of operations)
through November 30, 1993: $(86,373)*. For the fiscal year ended November 30,
1994: $(92,422)*. For the fiscal year ended November 30, 1995: $(74,259).
THE TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET PORTFOLIO -- For the fiscal year ended August 31,
1994: $153,204. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1995: $169,754. For the
fiscal year ended August 31, 1996: $205,419.
TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET FUND -- For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1994:
$(98,653)*. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1995: $(30,971)*. For the
fiscal year ended August 31, 1996: $173,920.
THE TREASURY MONEY MARKET PORTFOLIO -- For the period January 4, 1993
(commencement of operations) through October 31, 1993: $(30,702)*. For the
fiscal year ended October 31, 1994: $(13,844)*. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1995: $(146,180)*.
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TREASURY MONEY MARKET FUND -- For the period January 4, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through October 31, 1993: $(74,904)*. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1994: $(98,377)*. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995:
$(57,960)*.
THE SHORT TERM BOND PORTFOLIO -- For the period July 8, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through October 31, 1993: $(39,290)*. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1994: $(22,054)*. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995:
$(21,070)*.
SHORT TERM BOND FUND -- For the period July 8, 1993 (commencement of operations)
through October 31, 1993: $(22,474)*. For the fiscal year ended October 31,
1994: $(75,727)*. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: $(43,861)*.
THE U.S. FIXED INCOME PORTFOLIO -- For the period July 12, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through October 31, 1993: $7,691. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1994: $140,493. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995:
$167,081.
BOND FUND -- For the period July 12, 1993 (commencement of operations) through
October 31, 1993: $(20,885)*. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994:
$(9,177)*. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: $18,672.
THE TAX EXEMPT BOND PORTFOLIO -- For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1994:
$210,795. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1995: $189,892. For the fiscal
year ended August 31, 1996: $80,281.
TAX EXEMPT BOND FUND -- For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1994: $179,891.
For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1995: $168,215. For the fiscal year ended
August 31, 1996: $63,000.
THE NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND PORTFOLIO -- For the period April 11, 1994
(commencement of operations) through March 31, 1995: $(11,830)*. For the fiscal
year ended March 31, 1996: $7,691.
THE NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND -- For the Period April 11, 1994
(commencement of operations) through March 31, 1995: $(37,934)*. For the fiscal
year ended March 31, 1996: $3,302.
THE SELECTED U.S. EQUITY PORTFOLIO -- For the period July 19, 1993 (commencement
of operations) through May 31, 1994: $155,348. For the fiscal year ended May
31, 1995: $236,537. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1996: $138,134.
EQUITY FUND -- For the period July 19, 1993 (commencement of operations)
through May 31, 1994: $113,959. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1995:
$126,738. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1996: $76,406.
THE U.S. SMALL COMPANY PORTFOLIO -- For the period July 19, 1993 (commencement
of operations) through May 31, 1994: $203,764. For the fiscal year ended May
31, 1995: $241,373. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1996: $144,277.
CAPITAL APPRECIATION FUND -- For the period July 19, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through May 31, 1994: $72,970. For the fiscal year ended May 31,
1995: $108,015. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1996: $46,662.
THE NON-U.S. EQUITY PORTFOLIO -- For the period October 4, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through October 31, 1993: $(22,160)*. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1994: $327,569. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995:
$349,443.
INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND -- For the period October 4, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through October 31, 1993: $(46,370)*. For the fiscal year ended
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October 31, 1994: $223,806. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995:
$210,123.
THE DIVERSIFIED PORTFOLIO -- For the period July 8, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through June 30, 1994: $(17,807)*. For the fiscal year ended
June 30, 1995: $63,153. For the fiscal year ended June 30, 1996: $45,687.
DIVERSIFIED FUND -- For the period December 15, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through June 30, 1994: $(43,203)*. For the fiscal year ended June
30, 1995: $(66,127)*. For the fiscal year ended June 30, 1996: $(2,852)*.
THE EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY PORTFOLIO -- For the period November 15, 1993
(commencement of operations) through October 31, 1994: $347,925. For the fiscal
year ended October 31, 1995: $337,050.
EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND -- For the period November 15, 1993 (commencement
of operations) through October 31, 1994: $(37,902)*. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1995: $5,847.
EUROPEAN EQUITY PORTFOLIO-- For the period March 28, 1995 (commencement of
operations) through December 31, 1995: $128,335. For the six months ended
June 30, 1996: $64,388 (unaudited).
EUROPEAN EQUITY FUND -- For the period May 13, 1996 (commencement of operations)
through June 30, 1996: $0 (unaudited).
JAPAN EQUITY PORTFOLIO -- For the period March 28, 1995 (commencement of
operations) through December 31, 1995: $147,974. For the six months ended
June 30, 1996: $60,965 (unaudited).
JAPAN EQUITY FUND -- For the period May 6, 1996 (commencement of operations)
through June 30, 1996: $10 (unaudited).
ASIA GROWTH PORTFOLIO -- For the period April 5, 1995 (commencement of
operations) through December 31, 1995: $21,823. For the six months ended
June 30, 1996: $12,972 (unaudited).
ASIA GROWTH FUND -- For the period May 13, 1996 (commencement of operations)
through June 30, 1996: $0 (unaudited).
____________________________________
(*) Indicates a reimbursement by Morgan for expenses in excess of its fees under
the Prior Services Agreements. No fees were paid for the fiscal period.
CUSTODIAN AND TRANSFER AGENT
State Street Bank and Trust Company ("State Street"), 225 Franklin Street,
Boston, Massachusetts 02110, serves as the Trust's and each of the Portfolio's
custodian and fund accounting agent and each Fund's transfer and dividend
disbursing agent. Pursuant to the Custodian Contracts, State Street is
responsible for maintaining the books of account and records of portfolio
transactions and holding portfolio securities and cash. In addition, the
Custodian has entered into subcustodian agreements on behalf of the Portfolios
for the Tax Exempt Money Market, Tax Exempt Bond and New York Total Return Bond
Funds with Bankers Trust Company for the purpose of holding TENR Notes and with
Bank of New York and Chemical Bank, N.A. for the purpose of holding certain
variable rate demand notes. In the case of foreign assets held outside the
United States, the Custodian employs various subcustodians who were approved by
the Trustees of the Portfolios in accordance with the regulations of the SEC.
The Custodian maintains portfolio transaction records. As Transfer Agent and
Dividend Disbursing Agent, State Street is responsible for maintaining account
records
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detailing the ownership of Fund shares and for crediting income, capital gains
and other changes in share ownership to shareholder accounts.
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING
The Trust on behalf of each of the Funds has entered into a Shareholder
Servicing Agreement with Morgan pursuant to which Morgan acts as shareholder
servicing agent for its customers and for other Fund investors who are customers
of an Eligible Institution. Under this agreement, Morgan is responsible for
performing shareholder account administrative and servicing functions, which
includes but is not limited to, answering inquiries regarding account status and
history, the manner in which purchases and redemptions of Fund shares may be
effected, and certain other matters pertaining to a Fund; assisting customers in
designating and changing dividend options, account designations and addresses;
providing necessary personnel and facilities to coordinate the establishment and
maintenance of shareholder accounts and records with the Funds' transfer agent;
transmitting purchase and redemption orders to the Funds' transfer agent and
arranging for the wiring or other transfer of funds to and from customer
accounts in connection with orders to purchase or redeem Fund shares; verifying
purchase and redemption orders, transfers among and changes in accounts;
informing the Distributor of the gross amount of purchase orders for Fund
shares; and providing other related services.
Under the Shareholder Servicing Agreement, each Fund has agreed to pay
Morgan for these services a fee at the following annual rates (expressed as a
percentage of the average daily net asset values of Fund shares owned by or for
shareholders for whom Morgan is acting as shareholder servicing agent): Money
Market, Treasury Money Market and Tax Exempt Money Market Funds, 0.15% of
average daily net assets up to $2 billion and 0.10% of such assets thereafter;
Short Term Bond, Bond, Tax Exempt Bond and New York Total Return Bond Funds,
0.20% of average daily net assets; Equity, Capital Appreciation, International
Equity, Emerging Markets Equity, International Opportunities, Diversified,
European Equity, Japan Equity and Asia Growth Funds, 0.25% of average daily net
assets. Morgan acts as shareholder servicing agent for all shareholders.
The table below sets forth for each Fund listed the shareholder servicing
fees paid by each Fund to Morgan, net of fee waivers and reimbursements, for the
fiscal periods indicated following each Fund's reorganization or commencement of
operations. See "Expenses" in the Prospectus and below for applicable expense
limitations.
MONEY MARKET FUND -- For the period July 12, 1993 (commencement of operations)
through November 30, 1993: $1,628,914. For the fiscal year ended November 30,
1994: $3,701,260. For the fiscal year ended November 30, 1995: $3,629,031.
TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET FUND -- For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1994:
$2,121,421. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1995: $2,227,944. For the
fiscal year ended August 31, 1996: $1,680,618.
TREASURY MONEY MARKET FUND -- For the period January 4, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through October 31, 1993: $71,617. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1994: $200,453. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995:
$273,861.
SHORT TERM BOND FUND -- For the period July 8, 1993 (commencement of operations)
through October 31, 1993: $1,437. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994:
$11,275. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: $16,063.
BOND FUND -- For the period July 12, 1993 (commencement of operations) through
October 31, 1993: $53,352. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1994:
$189,959. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995: $222,000.
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TAX EXEMPT BOND FUND -- For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1994: $816,408.
For the fiscal year ended August 31, 1995: $635,645. For the fiscal year ended
August 31, 1996: $702,939.
NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND -- For the period April 11, 1994 (commencement
of operations) through March 31, 1995: $49,958. For the fiscal year ended
March 31, 1996: $83,301.
EQUITY FUND -- For the period July 19, 1993 (commencement of operations)
through May 31, 1994: $506,629. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1995:
$598,644. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1996: $742,283.
CAPITAL APPRECIATION FUND -- For the period July 19, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through May 31, 1994: $491,556. For the fiscal year ended May 31,
1995: $456,271. For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1996: $488,236.
INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND -- For the period October 4, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through October 31, 1993: $32,604. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1994: $476,339. For the fiscal year ended October 31, 1995:
$479,112.
DIVERSIFIED FUND -- For the period December 15, 1993 (commencement of
operations) through June 30, 1994: $5,411. For the fiscal year ended June 30,
1995: $36,552. For the fiscal year ended June 30, 1996: $90,759.
EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND -- For the period November 15, 1993 (commencement
of operations) through October 31, 1994: $92,084. For the fiscal year ended
October 31, 1995: $121,502.
EUROPEAN EQUITY FUND -- For the period May 13, 1996 (commencement of operations)
through June 30, 1996: $2 (unaudited).
JAPAN EQUITY FUND -- For the period May 6, 1996 (commencement of operations)
through June 30, 1996: $99 (unaudited).
ASIA GROWTH FUND -- For the period May 13, 1996 (commencement of operations)
through June 30, 1996: $5 (unaudited).
As discussed under "Investment Advisor," the Glass-Steagall Act and other
applicable laws and regulations limit the activities of bank holding companies
and certain of their subsidiaries in connection with registered open-end
investment companies. The activities of Morgan in acting as shareholder
servicing agent for Fund shareholders under the Shareholder Servicing Agreement
and providing administrative services to the Funds and the Portfolios under the
Services Agreements and in acting as Advisor to the Portfolios under the
Investment Advisory Agreements, may raise issues under these laws. However,
Morgan believes that it may properly perform these services and the other
activities described in the Prospectus without violation of the Glass-Steagall
Act or other applicable banking laws or regulations.
If Morgan were prohibited from providing any of the services under the
Shareholder Servicing Agreement and the Services Agreements, the Trustees would
seek an alternative provider of such services. In such event, changes in the
operation of the Funds or the Portfolios might occur and a shareholder might no
longer be able to avail himself or herself of any services then being provided
to shareholders by Morgan.
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS
The independent accountants of the Trust and the Portfolios are Price
Waterhouse LLP, 1177 Avenue of the Americas, New York, New York 10036. Price
Waterhouse LLP conducts an annual audit of the financial statements of each of
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the Funds and the Portfolios, assists in the preparation and/or review of each
of the Fund's and the Portfolio's federal and state income tax returns and
consults with the Funds and the Portfolios as to matters of accounting and
federal and state income taxation.
EXPENSES
In addition to the fees payable to Pierpont Group, Inc., Morgan and FDI
under various agreements discussed under "Trustees and Officers," "Investment
Advisor," "Co-Administrator and Distributor," "Services Agent" and "Shareholder
Servicing" above, the Funds and the Portfolios are responsible for usual and
customary expenses associated with their respective operations. Such expenses
include organization expenses, legal fees, accounting expenses, insurance costs,
the compensation and expenses of the Trustees, registration fees under federal
securities laws, and extraordinary expenses applicable to the Funds or the
Portfolios. For the Funds, such expenses also include transfer, registrar and
dividend disbursing costs, the expenses of printing and mailing reports, notices
and proxy statements to Fund shareholders, and registration fees under state
securities laws. For the Portfolios, such expenses also include applicable
registration fees under foreign securities laws, custodian fees and brokerage
expenses. Under fee arrangements prior to September 1, 1995, Morgan as Services
Agent was responsible for reimbursements to the Trust and certain Portfolios and
the usual and customary expenses described above (excluding organization and
extraordinary expenses, custodian fees and brokerage expenses).
Morgan has agreed that if in any fiscal year the sum of any Fund's expenses
exceeds the limits set by applicable regulations of state securities
commissions, the fees payable by the Fund to Morgan for that year shall be
reduced as specified by agreement with the Trust on behalf of the Fund.
Currently, Morgan believes that the most restrictive expense limitation of state
securities commissions limits expenses to 2.5% of the first $30 million of
average net assets, 2% of the next $70 million of such net assets and 1.5% of
such net assets in excess of $100 million for any fiscal year. For additional
information regarding waivers or expense subsidies, see "Management of the Trust
and the Portfolio(s)" in the Prospectus.
PURCHASE OF SHARES
Investors may open Fund accounts and purchase shares as described in the
Prospectus under "Purchase of Shares." References in the Prospectus and this
Statement of Additional Information to customers of Morgan or an Eligible
Institution include customers of their affiliates and references to transactions
by customers with Morgan or an Eligible Institution include transactions with
their affiliates. Only Fund investors who are using the services of a financial
institution acting as shareholder servicing agent pursuant to an agreement with
the Trust on behalf of a Fund may make transactions in shares of a Fund.
Each Fund may, at its own option, accept securities in payment for shares.
The securities delivered in are valued by the method described in "Net Asset
Value" as of the day the Fund receives the securities. This is a taxable
transaction to the shareholder. Securities may be accepted in payment for
shares only if they are, in the judgment of Morgan, appropriate investments for
the Fund's corresponding Portfolio. In addition, securities accepted in payment
for shares must: (i) meet the investment objective and policies of the acquiring
Fund's corresponding Portfolio; (ii) be acquired by the applicable Fund for
investment and not for resale (other than for resale to the Fund's corresponding
Portfolio); (iii) be liquid securities which are not restricted as to transfer
either by law or liquidity of market; and (iv) if stock, have a value which is
readily ascertainable as evidenced by a listing on a stock exchange, OTC market
or by readily available market quotations from a dealer in such securities.
Each Fund reserves the right to accept or reject at its own option any and all
securities offered in payment for its shares.
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Prospective investors may purchase shares with the assistance of an
Eligible Institution, and the Eligible Institution may charge the investor a fee
for this service and other services it provides to its customers.
REDEMPTION OF SHARES
Investors may redeem shares as described in the Prospectus under
"Redemption of Shares." Shareholders redeeming shares of the Money Market, Tax
Exempt Money Market or Treasury Money Market Funds should be aware that these
Funds attempt to maintain a stable net asset value of $1.00 per share; however,
there can be no assurance that they will be able to continue to do so, and in
that case the net asset value of the Funds' shares might deviate from $1.00 per
share. Accordingly, a redemption request might result in payment of a dollar
amount which differs from the number of shares redeemed. See "Net Asset Value"
in the Prospectus and below.
If the Trust on behalf of a Fund and its corresponding Portfolio determine
that it would be detrimental to the best interest of the remaining shareholders
of a Fund to make payment wholly or partly in cash, payment of the redemption
price may be made in whole or in part by a distribution in kind of securities
from the Portfolio, in lieu of cash, in conformity with the applicable rule of
the SEC. If shares are redeemed in kind, the redeeming shareholder might incur
transaction costs in converting the assets into cash. The method of valuing
portfolio securities is described under "Net Asset Value," and such valuation
will be made as of the same time the redemption price is determined. The Trust
on behalf of all of the Funds and their corresponding Portfolios (except the
Money Market, Tax Exempt Money Market, European Equity, Japan Equity, Asia
Growth and International Opportunities Portfolios) have elected to be governed
by Rule 18f-1 under the 1940 Act pursuant to which the Funds and the
corresponding Portfolios are obligated to redeem shares solely in cash up to the
lesser of $250,000 or one percent of the net asset value of the Fund during any
90 day period for any one shareholder. The Trust will redeem Fund shares in
kind only if it has received a redemption in kind from the corresponding
Portfolio and therefore shareholders of the Fund that receive redemptions in
kind will receive securities of the Portfolio. The Portfolios have advised the
Trust that the Portfolios will not redeem in kind except in circumstances in
which a Fund is permitted to redeem in kind.
FURTHER REDEMPTION INFORMATION. The Trust, on behalf of a Fund, and the
Portfolios reserve the right to suspend the right of redemption and to postpone
the date of payment upon redemption as follows: (i) for up to seven days, (ii)
during periods when the New York Stock Exchange is closed for other than
weekends and holidays or when trading on such Exchange is restricted as
determined by the SEC by rule or regulation, (iii) during periods in which an
emergency, as determined by the SEC, exists that causes disposal by the
Portfolio of, or evaluation of the net asset value of, its portfolio securities
to be unreasonable or impracticable, or (iv) for such other periods as the SEC
may permit.
EXCHANGE OF SHARES
An investor may exchange shares from any JPM Pierpont Fund into any other
JPM Pierpont Fund or JPM Institutional Fund, as described under "Exchange of
Shares" in the Prospectus. For complete information, the Prospectus as it
relates to the Fund into which a transfer is being made should be read prior to
the transfer. Requests for exchange are made in the same manner as requests for
redemptions. See "Redemption of Shares." Shares of the Fund to be acquired are
purchased for settlement when the proceeds from redemption become available. In
the case of investors in certain states, state securities laws may restrict the
availability of the exchange privilege. The Trust reserves the right to
discontinue, alter or limit the exchange privilege at any time.
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DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
Each Fund declares and pays dividends and distributions as described under
"Dividends and Distributions" in the Prospectus.
Net investment income of the Money Market, Tax Exempt Money Market and
Treasury Money Market Funds consists of accrued interest or discount and
amortized premium, less the accrued expenses of the Fund applicable to that
dividend period including the fees payable to Morgan. See "Net Asset Value."
Determination of the net income for Money Market, Tax Exempt Money Market,
Treasury Money Market, Short Term Bond, Bond, Tax Exempt Bond and New York Total
Return Bond Funds is made at the times described in the Prospectus; in addition,
net investment income for days other than business days is determined at the
time net asset value is determined on the prior business day.
NET ASSET VALUE
Each of the Funds computes its net asset value once daily on Monday through
Friday as described under "Net Asset Value" in the Prospectus. The net asset
value will not be computed on the day the following legal holidays are observed:
New Year's Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day,
Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. On days when U.S. trading
markets close early in observance of these holidays, the Funds and the
Portfolios would expect to close for purchases and redemptions at the same time.
The days on which net asset value is determined are the Funds' business days.
The net asset value of each Fund is equal to the value of the Fund's
investment in its corresponding Portfolio (which is equal to the Fund's pro rata
share of the total investment of the Fund and of any other investors in the
Portfolio less the Fund's pro rata share of the Portfolio's liabilities) less
the Fund's liabilities. The following is a discussion of the procedures used by
the Portfolios corresponding to each Fund in valuing their assets.
MONEY MARKET, TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET AND TREASURY MONEY MARKET FUNDS. In
the case of the Portfolios for the Money Market, Tax Exempt Money Market and
Treasury Money Market Funds, all portfolio securities are valued by the
amortized cost method. The purpose of this method of calculation is to attempt
to maintain a constant net asset value per share of the Fund of $1.00. No
assurances can be given that this goal can be attained. The amortized cost
method of valuation values a security at its cost at the time of purchase and
thereafter assumes a constant amortization to maturity of any discount or
premium, regardless of the impact of fluctuating interest rates on the market
value of the instrument. If a difference of more than 1/2 of 1% occurs between
valuation based on the amortized cost method and valuation based on market
value, the Trustees will take steps necessary to reduce such deviation, such as
changing the Fund's dividend policy, shortening the average portfolio maturity,
realizing gains or losses, or reducing the number of outstanding Fund shares.
Any reduction of outstanding shares will be effected by having each shareholder
contribute to a Fund's capital the necessary shares on a PRO RATA basis. Each
shareholder will be deemed to have agreed to such contribution in these
circumstances by his investment in the Funds. See "Taxes."
BOND, TAX EXEMPT BOND, NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND, SHORT TERM BOND AND
DIVERSIFIED FUNDS. In the case of the Bond, Tax Exempt Bond, New York Total
Return Bond and Short Term Bond Funds, and the fixed income portion of the
Diversified Fund, portfolio securities with a maturity of 60 days or more,
including securities that are listed on an exchange or traded over the counter,
are valued using prices supplied daily by an independent pricing service or
services that (i) are based on the last sale price on a national securities
exchange or, in the absence of recorded sales, at the readily available closing
bid price on such exchange or at the quoted bid price in the OTC market, if such
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exchange or market constitutes the broadest and most representative market for
the security and (ii) in other cases, take into account various factors
affecting market value, including yields and prices of comparable securities,
indication as to value from dealers and general market conditions. If such
prices are not supplied by the Portfolio's independent pricing service, such
securities are priced in accordance with procedures adopted by the Trustees.
All portfolio securities with a remaining maturity of less than 60 days are
valued by the amortized cost method. Securities listed on a foreign exchange
are valued at the last quoted sale price available before the time when net
assets are valued. Because of the large number of municipal bond issues
outstanding and the varying maturity dates, coupons and risk factors applicable
to each issuer's books, no readily available market quotations exist for most
municipal securities. The Portfolios value municipal securities on the basis of
prices from a pricing service which uses information with respect to
transactions in bonds, quotations from bond dealers, market transactions in
comparable securities and various relationships between securities in
determining values.
Trading in securities in most foreign markets is normally completed before
the close of trading in U.S. markets and may also take place on days on which
the U.S. markets are closed. If events materially affecting the value of
securities occur between the time when the market in which they are traded
closes and the time when a Portfolio's net asset value is calculated, such
securities will be valued at fair value in accordance with procedures
established by and under the general supervision of the Trustees.
EQUITY, CAPITAL APPRECIATION, INTERNATIONAL EQUITY, EMERGING MARKETS
EQUITY, INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES, DIVERSIFIED, EUROPEAN EQUITY, JAPAN EQUITY
AND ASIA GROWTH FUNDS. In the case of the Equity Portfolios, the value of
investments listed on a domestic securities exchange, other than options on
stock indexes, is based on the last sale prices on the New York Stock Exchange
at 4:00 P.M. or, in the absence of recorded sales, at the average of readily
available closing bid and asked prices on such exchange. Securities listed on a
foreign exchange are valued at the last quoted sale price available before the
time when net assets are valued. Unlisted securities are valued at the average
of the quoted bid and asked prices in the OTC market. The value of each
security for which readily available market quotations exist is based on a
decision as to the broadest and most representative market for such security.
For purposes of calculating net asset value all assets and liabilities initially
expressed in foreign currencies will be converted into U.S. dollars at the
prevailing market rates available at the time of valuation.
Options on stock indexes traded on national securities exchanges are valued
at the close of options trading on such exchanges which is currently 4:10 P.M.,
New York time. Stock index futures and related options, which are traded on
commodities exchanges, are valued at their last sales price as of the close of
such commodities exchanges which is currently 4:15 P.M., New York time.
Securities or other assets for which market quotations are not readily available
(including certain restricted and illiquid securities) are valued at fair value
in accordance with procedures established by and under the general supervision
and responsibility of the Trustees. Such procedures include the use of
independent pricing services which use prices based upon yields or prices of
securities of comparable quality, coupon, maturity and type; indications as to
values from dealers; and general market conditions. Short-term investments
which mature in 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost if their original
maturity was 60 days or less, or by amortizing their value on the 61st day prior
to maturity, if their original maturity when acquired by the Portfolio was more
than 60 days, unless this is determined not to represent fair value by the
Trustees.
Trading in securities on most foreign exchanges and OTC markets is normally
completed before the close of the New York Stock Exchange and may also take
place on days on which the New York Stock Exchange is closed. If events
materially affecting the value of securities occur between the time when the
exchange on
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which they are traded closes and the time when a Portfolio's net asset value is
calculated, such securities will be valued at fair value in accordance with
procedures established by and under the general supervision of the Trustees.
PERFORMANCE DATA
From time to time, the Funds may quote performance in terms of yield,
actual distributions, total return or capital appreciation in reports, sales
literature and advertisements published by the Trust. Current performance
information for the Funds may be obtained by calling the number provided on the
cover page of this Statement of Additional Information. See "Additional
Information" in the Prospectus.
YIELD QUOTATIONS. As required by regulations of the SEC, current yield for
the Money Market, Tax Exempt Money Market and Treasury Money Market Funds is
computed by determining the net change exclusive of capital changes in the value
of a hypothetical pre-existing account having a balance of one share at the
beginning of a seven-day calendar period, dividing the net change in account
value of the account at the beginning of the period, and multiplying the return
over the seven-day period by 365/7. For purposes of the calculation, net change
in account value reflects the value of additional shares purchased with
dividends from the original share and dividends declared on both the original
share and any such additional shares, but does not reflect realized gains or
losses or unrealized appreciation or depreciation. Effective yield for the
Money Market, Tax Exempt Money Market and Treasury Money Market Funds is
computed by annualizing the seven-day return with all dividends reinvested in
additional Fund shares. In the case of the Tax Exempt Money Market Fund, the
tax equivalent yield is computed by first computing the yield as discussed
above. Then the portion of the yield attributable to securities the income of
which was exempt for federal income tax purposes is determined. This portion of
the yield is then divided by one minus the stated assumed federal income tax
rate for individuals and then added to the portion of the yield that is not
attributable to securities, the income of which was not tax exempt.
As required by regulations of the SEC, the annualized yield for the Bond,
Tax Exempt Bond, New York Total Return Bond and Short Term Bond Funds is
computed by dividing each Fund's net investment income per share earned during a
30-day period by the net asset value on the last day of the period. The average
daily number of shares outstanding during the period that are eligible to
receive dividends is used in determining the net investment income per share.
Income is computed by totaling the interest earned on all debt obligations
during the period and subtracting from that amount the total of all recurring
expenses incurred during the period. The 30-day yield is then annualized on a
bond-equivalent basis assuming semi-annual reinvestment and compounding of net
investment income, as described under "Additional Information" in the
Prospectus.
Historical performance for periods prior to the establishment of the Money
Market, Tax Exempt Money Market, Bond, and Tax Exempt Bond Funds will be that of
the respective predecessor free-standing fund and will be presented in
accordance with applicable SEC staff interpretations.
Below is set forth historical yield information for the Funds or their
predecessors for the periods indicated:
MONEY MARKET FUND (5/31/96): 7-day current yield: 4.94%; 7-day effective yield:
5.06%.
TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET FUND (8/31/96): 7-day current yield: 3.10%; 7-day tax
equivalent yield at 39% tax rate: 5.08%; 7-day effective yield: 3.15%.
TREASURY MONEY MARKET FUND (4/30/96): 7-day current yield: 4.77%; 7-day
effective yield: 4.88%.
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SHORT TERM BOND FUND (4/30/96): 30-day yield: 5.45%.
BOND FUND (4/30/96): 30-day yield: 6.17%.
TAX EXEMPT BOND FUND (8/31/96): 30-day yield: 4.52%; 30-day tax equivalent yield
at 39% tax rate: 7.41%.
NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND (9/30/96): 30-day yield: 4.23%; 30-day tax
equivalent yield at 39% tax rate: 6.93%.
TOTAL RETURN QUOTATIONS. As required by regulations of the SEC, the
annualized total return of the Bond, Tax Exempt Bond, New York Total Return
Bond, Short Term Bond, Equity, Capital Appreciation, International Equity,
Emerging Markets Equity, International Opportunities, Diversified, European
Equity, Japan Equity and Asia Growth Funds for a period is computed by assuming
a hypothetical initial payment of $1,000. It is then assumed that all of the
dividends and distributions by the Fund over the period are reinvested. It is
then assumed that at the end of the period, the entire amount is redeemed. The
annualized total return is then calculated by determining the annual rate
required for the initial payment to grow to the amount which would have been
received upon redemption.
Aggregate total returns, reflecting the cumulative percentage change over a
measuring period, may also be calculated.
Historical performance information for periods prior to the establishment
of the Money Market, Tax Exempt Money Market, Bond, Tax Exempt Bond, Equity,
Capital Appreciation and International Equity Funds will be that of the
respective predecessor free-standing fund and will be presented in accordance
with applicable SEC staff interpretations. Historical performance information
for any period or portion thereof prior to the establishment of the Diversified,
European Equity, Japan Equity or Asia Growth Fund will be that of its
corresponding predecessor JPM Institutional fund, if the JPM Institutional fund
commenced operations before the corresponding JPM Pierpont Fund. The applicable
financial information in the registration statement for The JPM Institutional
Funds (Registration Nos. 33-54642 and 811-7342) is incorporated herein by
reference.
Below is set forth historical return information for the Funds or their
predecessors for the periods indicated:
MONEY MARKET FUND (5/31/96): Average annual total return, 1 year: 5.54%; average
annual total return, 5 years: 4.33%; average annual total return, 10 years:
5.88%; aggregate total return, 1 year: 5.54%; aggregate total return, 5 years:
23.61%; aggregate total return, 10 years: 76.99%.
TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET FUND (8/31/96): Average annual total return, 1 year:
3.23%; Average annual total return, 5 years: 2.83%; average annual total return,
10 years: 3.91%; aggregate total return, 1 year: 3.23%; aggregate total return,
5 years: 14.99%; aggregate total return, 10 years: 46.74%.
TREASURY MONEY MARKET FUND (4/30/96): Average annual total return, 1 year:
5.36%; average annual total return, 5 years: N/A; average annual total return,
commencement of operations(*) to period end: 4.10%; aggregate total return, 1
year: 5.36%; aggregate total return, 5 years: N/A; aggregate total return,
commencement of operations(*) to period end: 13.96%.
SHORT TERM BOND FUND (4/30/96): Average annual total return, 1 year: 6.72%;
average annual total return, 5 years: N/A; average annual total return,
commencement of operations(*) to period end: 4.44%; aggregate total return, 1
year: 6.72%; aggregate total return, 5 years: N/A; aggregate total return,
commencement of operations(*) to period end: 12.69%.
BOND FUND (4/30/96): Average annual total return, 1 year: 8.49%; average annual
total return, 5 years: 7.52%; average annual total return, commencement of
operations(*) to period end: 7.88%; aggregate total return, 1 year: 8.49%;
aggregate total return, 5 years: 43.68%; aggregate total return, commencement of
operations(*) to period end: 84.58%.
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TAX EXEMPT BOND FUND (8/31/96): Average annual total return, 1 year: 4.01%;
average annual total return, 5 years: 6.41%; average annual total return,
10 years: 6.59%; aggregate total return, 1 year: 4.01%; aggregate total return,
5 years: 36.46%; aggregate total return, 10 years: 89.23%.
NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND FUND (9/30/96): Average annual total return, 1 year:
4.41%; average annual total return, 5 years: N/A; average annual total return,
commencement of operations(*) to period end: 5.88%; aggregate total return,
1 year: 4.41%; aggregate total return, 5 years: N/A; aggregate total return,
commencement of operations(*) to period end: 15.31%.
DIVERSIFIED FUND (6/30/96): Average annual total return, 1 year: 16.51%; average
annual total return, 5 years: N/A; average annual total return, commencement of
operations(*) to period end: 11.39%; aggregate total return, 1 year: 16.51%;
aggregate total return, 5 years: N/A; aggregate total return, commencement of
operations(*) to period end: 35.33%.
EQUITY FUND (5/31/96): Average annual total return, 1 year: 25.18%; average
annual total return, 5 years: 14.55%; average annual total return, 10 years
13.63%; aggregate total return, 1 year: 25.18%; aggregate total return, 5 years:
97.21%; aggregate total return, 10 years: 258.83%.
CAPITAL APPRECIATION FUND (5/31/96): Average annual total return, 1 year:
35.48%; average annual total return, 5 years: 16.54%; average annual total
return, 10 years: 11.23%; aggregate total return, 1 year: 35.48%; aggregate
total return, 5 years: 114.96%; aggregate total return, 10 years: 189.98%.
INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND (4/30/96): Average annual total return, 1 year:
11.91%; average annual total return, 5 years: 7.10%; average annual total
return, commencement of operations(*) to period end: 5.17%; aggregate total
return, 1 year: 7.10%; aggregate total return, 5 years: 40.92%; aggregate total
return, commencement of operations(*) to period end: 34.77%.
EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND (4/30/96): Average annual total return, 1 year:
11.72%; average annual total return, 5 years: N/A; average annual total return,
commencement of operations(*) to period end: 2.86%; aggregate total return, 1
year: 11.72%; aggregate total return, 5 years: N/A; aggregate total return,
commencement of operations(*) to period end: 7.04%.
EUROPEAN EQUITY FUND (6/30/96): Average annual total return, 1 year: N/A;
average annual total return, 5 years: N/A; average annual total return
commencement of operations(*) to period end: 6.85%; aggregate total return,
1 year: N/A; aggregate total return, 5 years: N/A; aggregate total return
commencement of operations(*) to period end: 6.85%.
JAPAN EQUITY FUND (6/30/96): Average annual total return, 1 year: N/A; average
annual total return, 5 years: N/A; average annual total return commencement of
operations(*) to period end: 5.85%; aggregate total return, 1 year: N/A;
aggregate total return, 5 years: N/A; aggregate total return commencement of
operations(*) to period end: 5.85%.
ASIA GROWTH FUND (6/30/96): Average annual total return, 1 year: N/A; average
annual total return, 5 years: N/A; average annual total return commencement of
operations(*) to period end: 4.42%; aggregate total return, 1 year: N/A;
aggregate total return, 5 years: N/A; aggregate total return commencement of
operations(*) to period end: 4.42%.
- ----------------------------------
* The Treasury Money Market, Short Term Bond, Bond, New York Total Return Bond,
Diversified, International Equity, Emerging Markets Equity, European Equity,
Japan Equity and Asia Growth Funds commenced operations on January 4, 1993,
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July 8, 1993, March 11, 1988, April 11, 1994, December 15, 1993, June 1, 1990,
November 15, 1993, May 13, 1996, May 6, 1996, and May 13, 1996 respectively.
The predecessor JPM Institutional Diversified, European Equity, Japan Equity and
Asia Growth funds commenced operations on July 8, 1993, February 29, 1996,
February 29, 1996 and February 29, 1996, respectively.
GENERAL. A Fund's performance will vary from time to time depending upon
market conditions, the composition of its corresponding Portfolio, and its
operating expenses. Consequently, any given performance quotation should not be
considered representative of a Fund's performance for any specified period in
the future. In addition, because performance will fluctuate, it may not provide
a basis for comparing an investment in a Fund with certain bank deposits or
other investments that pay a fixed yield or return for a stated period of time.
Comparative performance information may be used from time to time in
advertising the Funds' shares, including appropriate market indices including
the benchmarks indicated under "Investment Advisor" above or data from Lipper
Analytical Services, Inc., Micropal, Inc., Ibbotson Associates, Morningstar
Inc., the Dow Jones Industrial Average and other industry publications.
In order to illustrate the benefits of balanced investing across asset
classes over longer periods of time, the Diversified Fund may use performance
data that will be based on the return of, as appropriate, the S&P 500 Index, the
Salomon Brothers Broad Investment Grade Bond Index, the Frank Russell 2000 and
2500 Indexes, and the EAFE Index. The quoted performance will illustrate what
results could have been achieved had the Fund invested specified percentages of
the Fund's assets in classes of securities that would have produced a return
equal to the relevant index over the time period at issue.
From time to time, the Funds may quote performance in terms of yield,
actual distributions, total return, or capital appreciation in reports, sales
literature, and advertisements published by the Funds. Current performance
information for the Funds may be obtained by calling the number provided on the
cover page of this Statement of Additional Information. See "Additional
Information" in the Prospectus.
PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS
The Advisor places orders for all Portfolios for all purchases and sales of
portfolio securities, enters into repurchase agreements, and may enter into
reverse repurchase agreements and execute loans of portfolio securities on
behalf of all the Portfolios. See "Investment Objectives and Policies."
Fixed income and debt securities and municipal bonds and notes are
generally traded at a net price with dealers acting as principal for their own
accounts without a stated commission. The price of the security usually
includes profit to the dealers. In underwritten offerings, securities are
purchased at a fixed price which includes an amount of compensation to the
underwriter, generally referred to as the underwriter's concession or discount.
On occasion, certain securities may be purchased directly from an issuer, in
which case no commissions or discounts are paid.
MONEY MARKET, TAX EXEMPT MONEY MARKET, TREASURY MONEY MARKET, BOND, SHORT
TERM BOND, TAX EXEMPT BOND AND NEW YORK TOTAL RETURN BOND FUNDS. Portfolio
transactions for the Portfolios corresponding to the Money Market, Tax Exempt
Money Market, Treasury Money Market, Bond, Short Term Bond, Tax Exempt Bond and
New York Total Return Bond Funds will be undertaken principally to accomplish a
Portfolio's objective in relation to expected movements in the general level of
interest rates. The Portfolios corresponding to the Money Market, Treasury
Money Market, Bond, Tax Exempt Bond, New York Total Return Bond and Short Term
Bond Funds may engage in short-term trading consistent with their objectives.
See "Investment Objectives and Policies -- Portfolio Turnover." The Tax Exempt
Money Market Portfolio will not seek profits through short-term trading, but the
Portfolio may dispose of any portfolio security prior to its maturity if it
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believes such disposition is appropriate even if this action realizes profits or
losses.
In connection with portfolio transactions for the Portfolios, the Advisor
intends to seek best price and execution on a competitive basis for both
purchases and sales of securities.
The Portfolios corresponding to the Money Market, Tax Exempt Money Market
and Treasury Money Market Funds have a policy of investing only in securities
with maturities of less than thirteen months, which policy will result in high
portfolio turnovers. The Portfolio corresponding to the Short Term Bond Fund has
a policy of maintaining a short duration, which policy will also result in a
high portfolio turnover. Since brokerage commissions are not normally paid on
investments which the Portfolios make, turnover resulting from such investments
should not adversely affect the net asset value or net income of the Portfolios.
EQUITY, CAPITAL APPRECIATION, INTERNATIONAL EQUITY, EMERGING MARKETS
EQUITY, INTERNATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES, DIVERSIFIED, EUROPEAN EQUITY, JAPAN EQUITY
AND ASIA GROWTH FUNDS. In connection with portfolio transactions for the Equity
Portfolios, the overriding objective is to obtain the best possible execution of
purchase and sale orders.
In selecting a broker, the Advisor considers a number of factors including:
the price per unit of the security; the broker's reliability for prompt,
accurate confirmations and on-time delivery of securities; the firm's financial
condition; as well as the commissions charged. A broker may be paid a brokerage
commission in excess of that which another broker might have charged for
effecting the same transaction if, after considering the foregoing factors, the
Advisor decides that the broker chosen will provide the best possible execution.
The Advisor monitors the reasonableness of the brokerage commissions paid in
light of the execution received. The Trustees of each Portfolio review
regularly the reasonableness of commissions and other transaction costs incurred
by the Portfolios in light of facts and circumstances deemed relevant from time
to time, and, in that connection, will receive reports from the Advisor and
published data concerning transaction costs incurred by institutional investors
generally. Research services provided by brokers to which the Advisor has
allocated brokerage business in the past include economic statistics and
forecasting services, industry and company analyses, portfolio strategy
services, quantitative data, and consulting services from economists and
political analysts. Research services furnished by brokers are used for the
benefit of all the Advisor's clients and not solely or necessarily for the
benefit of an individual Portfolio. The Advisor believes that the value of
research services received is not determinable and does not significantly reduce
its expenses. The Portfolios do not reduce their fee to the Advisor by any
amount that might be attributable to the value of such services.
The Portfolios or their predecessors corresponding to the Equity, Capital
Appreciation, International Equity, Emerging Markets Equity, Diversified,
European Equity, Japan Equity and Asia Growth Funds paid the following
approximate brokerage commissions for the indicated fiscal periods:
EQUITY FUND (May): 1996: $1,375,696; 1995: $1,179,132; 1994: $744,676.
CAPITAL APPRECIATION FUND (May): 1996: $1,554,459; 1995: $1,217,016; 1994:
$1,760,320.
INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND (October): 1995: $1,691,642; 1994: $1,413,238; 1993:
$639,000.
DIVERSIFIED FUND (June): 1996: $220,206; 1995: $145,589; 1994: $78,737.
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EMERGING MARKETS EQUITY FUND (October): 1995: $1,475,147; 1994: $1,262,905;
1993: N/A.
EUROPEAN EQUITY FUND (December): 1995: $143,417.
JAPAN EQUITY FUND (December): 1995: $0.
ASIA GROWTH FUND (December): 1995: $27,322.
The increases in brokerage commissions reflected above were due to
increased portfolio activity and an increase in net investments by investors in
a Portfolio or its predecessor.
Subject to the overriding objective of obtaining the best possible
execution of orders, the Advisor may allocate a portion of a Portfolio's
brokerage transactions to affiliates of the Advisor. In order for affiliates of
the Advisor to effect any portfolio transactions for a Portfolio, the
commissions, fees or other remuneration received by such affiliates must be
reasonable and fair compared to the commissions, fees, or other remuneration
paid to other brokers in connection with comparable transactions involving
similar securities being purchased or sold on a securities exchange during a
comparable period of time. Furthermore, the Trustees of each Portfolio,
including a majority of the Trustees who are not "interested persons," have
adopted procedures which are reasonably designed to provide that any
commissions, fees, or other remuneration paid to such affiliates are consistent
with the foregoing standard.
Portfolio securities will not be purchased from or through or sold to or
through the Co-Administrator, the Distributor or the Advisor or any other
"affiliated person" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Co-Administrator,
Distributor or Advisor when such entities are acting as principals, except to
the extent permitted by law. In addition, the Portfolios will not purchase
securities during the existence of any underwriting group relating thereto of
which the Advisor or an affiliate of the Advisor is a member, except to the
extent permitted by law.
On those occasions when the Advisor deems the purchase or sale of a
security to be in the best interests of a Portfolio as well as other customers
including other Portfolios, the Advisor to the extent permitted by applicable
laws and regulations, may, but is not obligated to, aggregate the securities to
be sold or purchased for a Portfolio with those to be sold or purchased for
other customers in order to obtain best execution, including lower brokerage
commissions if appropriate. In such event, allocation of the securities so
purchased or sold as well as any expenses incurred in the transaction will be
made by the Advisor in the manner it considers to be most equitable and
consistent with its fiduciary obligations to a Portfolio. In some instances,
this procedure might adversely affect a Portfolio.
If a Portfolio that writes options effects a closing purchase transaction
with respect to an option written by it, normally such transaction will be
executed by the same broker-dealer who executed the sale of the option. The
writing of options by a Portfolio will be subject to limitations established by
each of the exchanges governing the maximum number of options in each class
which may be written by a single investor or group of investors acting in
concert, regardless of whether the options are written on the same or different
exchanges or are held or written in one or more accounts or through one or more
brokers. The number of options which a Portfolio may write may be affected by
options written by the Advisor for other investment advisory clients. An
exchange may order the liquidation of positions found to be in excess of these
limits, and it may impose certain other sanctions.
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MASSACHUSETTS TRUST
The Trust is a trust fund of the type commonly known as a "Massachusetts
business trust" of which each Fund is a separate and distinct series. A copy of
the Declaration of Trust for the Trust is on file in the office of the Secretary
of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The Declaration of Trust and the By-Laws
of the Trust are designed to make the Trust similar in most respects to a
Massachusetts business corporation. The principal distinction between the two
forms concerns shareholder liability described below.
Under Massachusetts law, shareholders of such a trust may, under certain
circumstances, be held personally liable as partners for the obligations of the
trust which is not the case for a corporation. However, the Trust's Declaration
of Trust provides that the shareholders shall not be subject to any personal
liability for the acts or obligations of any Fund and that every written
agreement, obligation, instrument or undertaking made on behalf of any Fund
shall contain a provision to the effect that the shareholders are not personally
liable thereunder.
No personal liability will attach to the shareholders under any undertaking
containing such provision when adequate notice of such provision is given,
except possibly in a few jurisdictions. With respect to all types of claims in
the latter jurisdictions, (i) tort claims, (ii) contract claims where the
provision referred to is omitted from the undertaking, (iii) claims for taxes,
and (iv) certain statutory liabilities in other jurisdictions, a shareholder may
be held personally liable to the extent that claims are not satisfied by the
Fund. However, upon payment of such liability, the shareholder will be entitled
to reimbursement from the general assets of the Fund. The Trustees intend to
conduct the operations of the Trust in such a way so as to avoid, as far as
possible, ultimate liability of the shareholders for liabilities of the Funds.
The Trust's Declaration of Trust further provides that the name of the
Trust refers to the Trustees collectively as Trustees, not as individuals or
personally, that no Trustee, officer, employee or agent of a Fund is liable to a
Fund or to a shareholder, and that no Trustee, officer, employee, or agent is
liable to any third persons in connection with the affairs of a Fund, except as
such liability may arise from his or its own bad faith, willful misfeasance,
gross negligence or reckless disregard of his or its duties to such third
persons. It also provides that all third persons shall look solely to Fund
property for satisfaction of claims arising in connection with the affairs of a
Fund. With the exceptions stated, the Trust's Declaration of Trust provides
that a Trustee, officer, employee, or agent is entitled to be indemnified
against all liability in connection with the affairs of a Fund.
The Trust shall continue without limitation of time subject to the
provisions in the Declaration of Trust concerning termination by action of the
shareholders or by action of the Trustees upon notice to the shareholders.
DESCRIPTION OF SHARES
The Trust is an open-end management investment company organized as a
Massachusetts business trust in which each Fund represents a separate series of
shares of beneficial interest. See "Massachusetts Trust."
The Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to issue an unlimited number
of full and fractional shares ($0.001 par value) of one or more series and
classes within any series and to divide or combine the shares (of any series, if
applicable) without changing the proportionate beneficial interest of each
shareholder in a Fund (or in the assets of other series, if applicable). To
date shares of the sixteen series described in this Statement of Additional
Information have been authorized and are available for sale to the public. Each
share represents an equal proportional interest in a Fund with each other share.
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Upon liquidation of a Fund, holders are entitled to share pro rata in the net
assets of a Fund available for distribution to such shareholders. See
"Massachusetts Trust." Shares of a Fund have no preemptive or conversion rights
and are fully paid and nonassessable. The rights of redemption and exchange are
described in the Prospectus and elsewhere in this Statement of Additional
Information.
The shareholders of the Trust are entitled to a full vote for each full
share held and to a fractional vote for each fractional share. Subject to the
1940 Act, the Trustees themselves have the power to alter the number and the
terms of office of the Trustees, to lengthen their own terms, or to make their
terms of unlimited duration subject to certain removal procedures, and appoint
their own successors, PROVIDED, HOWEVER, that immediately after such appointment
the requisite majority of the Trustees have been elected by the shareholders of
the Trust. The voting rights of shareholders are not cumulative so that holders
of more than 50% of the shares voting can, if they choose, elect all Trustees
being selected while the shareholders of the remaining shares would be unable to
elect any Trustees. It is the intention of the Trust not to hold meetings of
shareholders annually. The Trustees may call meetings of shareholders for
action by shareholder vote as may be required by either the 1940 Act or the
Trust's Declaration of Trust.
Shareholders of the Trust have the right, upon the declaration in writing
or vote of more than two-thirds of its outstanding shares, to remove a Trustee.
The Trustees will call a meeting of shareholders to vote on removal of a Trustee
upon the written request of the record holders of 10% of the Trust's shares. In
addition, whenever ten or more shareholders of record who have been such for at
least six months preceding the date of application, and who hold in the
aggregate either shares having a net asset value of at least $25,000 or at least
1% of the Trust's outstanding shares, whichever is less, shall apply to the
Trustees in writing, stating that they wish to communicate with other
shareholders with a view to obtaining signatures to request a meeting for the
purpose of voting upon the question of removal of any Trustee or Trustees and
accompanied by a form of communication and request which they wish to transmit,
the Trustees shall within five business days after receipt of such application
either: (1) afford to such applicants access to a list of the names and
addresses of all shareholders as recorded on the books of the Trust; or (2)
inform such applicants as to the approximate number of shareholders of record,
and the approximate cost of mailing to them the proposed communication and form
of request. If the Trustees elect to follow the latter course, the Trustees,
upon the written request of such applicants, accompanied by a tender of the
material to be mailed and of the reasonable expenses of mailing, shall, with
reasonable promptness, mail such material to all shareholders of record at their
addresses as recorded on the books, unless within five business days after such
tender the Trustees shall mail to such applicants and file with the SEC,
together with a copy of the material to be mailed, a written statement signed by
at least a majority of the Trustees to the effect that in their opinion either
such material contains untrue statements of fact or omits to state facts
necessary to make the statements contained therein not misleading, or would be
in violation of applicable law, and specifying the basis of such opinion. After
opportunity for hearing upon the objections specified in the written statements
filed, the SEC may, and if demanded by the Trustees or by such applicants shall,
enter an order either sustaining one or more of such objections or refusing to
sustain any of them. If the SEC shall enter an order refusing to sustain any of
such objections, or if, after the entry of an order sustaining one or more of
such objections, the SEC shall find, after notice and opportunity for hearing,
that all objections so sustained have been met, and shall enter an order so
declaring, the Trustees shall mail copies of such material to all shareholders
with reasonable promptness after the entry of such order and the renewal of such
tender.
The Trustees have authorized the issuance and sale to the public of shares
of sixteen series of the Trust. The Trustees have no current intention to
create
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any classes within the initial series or any subsequent series. The Trustees
may, however, authorize the issuance of shares of additional series and the
creation of classes of shares within any series with such preferences,
privileges, limitations and voting and dividend rights as the Trustees may
determine. The proceeds from the issuance of any additional series would be
invested in separate, independently managed portfolios with distinct investment
objectives, policies and restrictions, and share purchase, redemption and net
asset valuation procedures. Any additional classes would be used to distinguish
among the rights of different categories of shareholders, as might be required
by future regulations or other unforeseen circumstances. All consideration
received by the Trust for shares of any additional series or class, and all
assets in which such consideration is invested, would belong to that series or
class, subject only to the rights of creditors of the Trust and would be subject
to the liabilities related thereto. Shareholders of any additional series or
class will approve the adoption of any management contract or distribution plan
relating to such series or class and of any changes in the investment policies
related thereto, to the extent required by the 1940 Act.
For information relating to mandatory redemption of Fund shares or their
redemption at the option of the Trust under certain circumstances, see
"Redemption of Shares" in the Prospectus.
As of November 30, 1996, the following owned of record or, to the knowledge
of management, beneficially owned more than 5% of the outstanding shares of:
Money Market Fund--Morgan as Agent for Kingsley & Co. Fund Omnibus Account
(8.34%);
Treasury Money Market Fund--Morgan as Agent for Kingsley & Co. Fund Omnibus
Account (14.40%), Morgan as Agent for Market Street Trust Co. Omnibus
Account (7.03%), Morgan as Agent for D. Dunner, Inc. (6.36%);
Tax Exempt Money Market Fund--Morgan as Agent for Kingsley & Co. Fund
Omnibus Account (8.01%);
Short Term Bond Fund--Morgan as Agent for Towermark Corporation (31.62%);
E. Chang as Trustee of the E. Chao Chang Revocable Trust (19.52%), Midwest
Disposal of Delaware, LLC (5.81%);
Bond Fund--Boston & Co. (6.61%), B. Spitzer (5.40%);
New York Total Return Bond Fund--M. Barron (7.59%), Morgan as Agent for J.
Simon (5.56%);
Capital Appreciation--Forest Laboratories, Inc. (6.17%);
Emerging Markets Equity Fund--Morgan as Agent for Three M Operating
Subsidiaries, Ltd. (6.65%);
European Equity Fund--Morgan as Agent for The American Hospital of Paris
(39.73%), Morgan as Agent for E. Boulot and E. Boulot (19.92%), Morgan as
Agent for D.J. Fermo and L. Fermo (15.20%), L.R. Smith and M.S. Smith
(10.21%), R.A. McGimpsey and L.V. McGimpsey (6.84%);
Japan Equity Fund--Johol & Co. (33.05%), R.A. McGimpsey and L.V. McGimpsey
(19.12%), Morgan as Agent for The American Hospital of Paris (18.63%),
J. Lewis (9.09%), S.J. Grover and L.G. Grover (5.86%); and
Asia Growth Fund--R.A. McGimpsey and L.V. McGimpsey (45.35%), Morgan as
Agent for R. James and A. James (23.35%), Charles Schwab & Co, Inc.
(6.75%).
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The address of each owner listed above is c/o Morgan, 522 Fifth Avenue, New
York, New York 10036. As of the date of this Statement of Additional
Information, the officers and Trustees as a group owned less than 1% of the
shares of each Fund.
TAXES
Each Fund intends to qualify as a regulated investment company under
Subchapter M of the Code. As a regulated investment company, a Fund must, among
other things, (a) derive at least 90% of its gross income from dividends,
interest, payments with respect to loans of stock and securities, gains from the
sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currency and other
income (including but not limited to gains from options, futures, and forward
contracts) derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock,
securities or foreign currency; (b) derive less than 30% of its gross income
from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities, options, futures or
forward contracts (other than options, futures or forward contracts on foreign
currencies) held less than three months, or foreign currencies (or options,
futures or forward contracts on foreign currencies), but only if such currencies
(or options, futures or forward contracts on foreign currencies) are not
directly related to a Fund's principal business of investing in stocks or
securities (or options and futures with respect to stocks or securities); and
(c) diversify its holdings so that, at the end of each quarter of its taxable
year, (i) at least 50% of the value of the Fund's total assets is represented by
cash, cash items, U.S. Government securities, securities of other regulated
investment companies, and other securities limited, in respect of any one
issuer, to an amount not greater than 5% of the Fund's total assets, and 10% of
the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and (ii) not more than 25% of
the value of its total assets is invested in the securities of any one issuer
(other than U.S. Government securities or securities of other regulated
investment companies). As a regulated investment company, a Fund (as opposed to
its shareholders) will not be subject to federal income taxes on the net
investment income and capital gain that it distributes to its shareholders,
provided that at least 90% of its net investment income and realized net
short-term capital gain in excess of net long-term capital loss for the taxable
year is distributed in accordance with the Code's timing requirements.
Under the Code, a Fund will be subject to a 4% excise tax on a portion of
its undistributed taxable income and capital gains if it fails to meet certain
distribution requirements by the end of the calendar year. Each Fund intends to
make distributions in a timely manner and accordingly does not expect to be
subject to the excise tax.
For federal income tax purposes, dividends that are declared by a Fund in
October, November or December as of a record date in such month and actually
paid in January of the following year will be treated as if they were paid on
December 31 of the year declared. Therefore, such dividends will be taxable to
a shareholder in the year declared rather than the year paid.
The Tax Exempt Money Market, Tax Exempt Bond and New York Total Return Bond
Funds intend to qualify to pay exempt-interest dividends to their respective
shareholders by having, at the close of each quarter of their respective taxable
years, at least 50% of the value of their respective total assets consist of tax
exempt securities. An exempt-interest dividend is that part of dividend
distributions made by the Funds which is properly designated as consisting of
interest received by the Funds on tax exempt securities. Shareholders will not
incur any federal income tax on the amount of exempt-interest dividends received
by them from the Funds, other than the alternative minimum tax under certain
circumstances. In view of each Fund's investment policies, it is expected that
a substantial portion of all dividends will be exempt-interest dividends,
although the Funds may from time to time realize and distribute net short-term
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capital gains and may invest limited amounts in taxable securities under
certain circumstances. See "Investment Objective(s) and Policies" in the
Prospectus.
Distributions of net investment income, certain foreign currency gains, and
realized net short-term capital gain in excess of net long-term capital loss
(other than exempt interest dividends) are generally taxable to shareholders of
the Funds as ordinary income whether such distributions are taken in cash or
reinvested in additional shares. The Equity, Capital Appreciation and
Diversified Funds expect that a portion of these distributions to corporate
shareholders will be eligible for the dividends-received deduction, subject to
applicable limitations under the Code. Distributions to corporate shareholders
of the Money Market, Tax Exempt Money Market, Treasury Money Market, Tax Exempt
Bond, New York Total Return Bond, Bond, Short Term Bond, International Equity,
Emerging Markets Equity, International Opportunities, European Equity, Japan
Equity and Asia Growth Funds are not eligible for the dividends received
deduction. Distributions of net long-term capital gain (i.e., net long-term
capital gain in excess of net short-term capital loss) are taxable to
shareholders of a Fund as long-term capital gain, regardless of whether such
distributions are taken in cash or reinvested in additional shares and
regardless of how long a shareholder has held shares in the Fund. See "Taxes"
in the Prospectus for a discussion of the federal income tax treatment of any
gain or loss realized on the redemption or exchange of a Fund's shares.
Additionally, any loss realized on a redemption or exchange of shares of a Fund
will be disallowed to the extent the shares disposed of are replaced within a
period of 61 days beginning 30 days before such disposition, such as pursuant to
reinvestment of a dividend in shares of the Fund.
To maintain a constant $1.00 per share net asset value, the Trustees of the
Money Market, Tax Exempt Money Market and Treasury Money Market Funds may direct
that the number of outstanding shares be reduced pro rata. If this adjustment
is made, it will reflect the lower market value of portfolio securities and not
realized losses. The adjustment may result in a shareholder having more
dividend income than net income in his account for a period. When the number of
outstanding shares of a Fund is reduced, the shareholder's basis in the shares
of the Fund may be adjusted to reflect the difference between taxable income and
net dividends actually distributed. This difference may be realized as a capital
loss when the shares are liquidated. See "Net Asset Value."
Gains or losses on sales of portfolio securities will be treated as
long-term capital gains or losses if the securities have been held for more than
one year except in certain cases where a put is acquired or a call option is
written thereon or the straddle rules described below are otherwise applicable.
Other gains or losses on the sale of securities will be short-term capital gains
or losses. Gains and losses on the sale, lapse or other termination of options
on securities will be treated as gains and losses from the sale of securities.
Except as described below, if an option written by a Portfolio lapses or is
terminated through a closing transaction, such as a repurchase by the Portfolio
of the option from its holder, the Portfolio will realize a short-term capital
gain or loss, depending on whether the premium income is greater or less than
the amount paid by the Portfolio in the closing transaction. If securities are
purchased by a Portfolio pursuant to the exercise of a put option written by it,
the Portfolio will subtract the premium received from its cost basis in the
securities purchased.
Under the Code, gains or losses attributable to disposition of foreign
currency or to certain foreign currency contracts, or to fluctuations in
exchange rates between the time a Portfolio accrues income or receivables or
expenses or other liabilities denominated in a foreign currency and the time a
Portfolio actually collects such income or pays such liabilities, are generally
treated as ordinary income or ordinary loss. Similarly, gains or losses on the
disposition of debt securities held by a Portfolio, if any, denominated in
foreign currency, to the extent attributable to fluctuations in exchange rates
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between the acquisition and disposition dates are also treated as ordinary
income or loss.
Forward currency contracts, options and futures contracts entered into by a
Portfolio may create "straddles" for U.S. federal income tax purposes and this
may affect the character and timing of gains or losses realized by the Portfolio
on forward currency contracts, options and futures contracts or on the
underlying securities. Certain straddles treated as short sales for tax
purposes may also result in the loss of the holding period of underlying
securities for purposes of the 30% of gross income test described above, and
therefore, a Portfolio's ability to enter into forward currency contracts,
options and futures contracts may be limited.
Certain options, futures and foreign currency contracts held by a Portfolio
at the end of each taxable year will be required to be "marked to market" for
federal income tax purposes -- i.e., treated as having been sold at market
value. For options and futures contracts, 60% of any gain or loss recognized on
these deemed sales and on actual dispositions will be treated as long-term
capital gain or loss, and the remainder will be treated as short-term capital
gain or loss regardless of how long the Portfolio has held such options or
futures. However, gain or loss recognized on certain foreign currency contracts
will be treated as ordinary income or loss.
The Equity Portfolios may invest in Equity Securities of foreign issuers.
If a Portfolio purchases shares in certain foreign corporations (referred to as
passive foreign investment companies ("PFICs") under the Code), the Portfolio
may be subject to federal income tax on a portion of an "excess distribution"
from such foreign corporation or gain from the disposition of such shares, even
though a portion of such income may have to be distributed as a taxable dividend
by the Fund to its shareholders. In addition, certain interest charges may be
imposed on a Fund or its shareholders in respect of deemed unpaid taxes arising
from such distributions or gains. Alternatively, a Fund may in some cases be
permitted to include each year in its income and distribute to shareholders a
pro rata portion of the foreign investment fund's income, whether or not
distributed to the Fund.
Pursuant to proposed regulations, open-end regulated investment companies
such as the Portfolios would be entitled to elect to mark to market their stock
in certain PFICs. Marking to market in this context means recognizing as gain
for each taxable year the excess, as of the end of that year, of the fair market
value of each PFIC's stock over the owner's adjusted basis in that stock
(including mark to market gains of a prior year for which an election was in
effect).
FOREIGN SHAREHOLDERS. Dividends of net investment income and distributions
of realized net short-term gain in excess of net long-term loss to a shareholder
who, as to the United States, is a nonresident alien individual, fiduciary of a
foreign trust or estate, foreign corporation or foreign partnership (a "foreign
shareholder") will be subject to U.S. withholding tax at the rate of 30% (or
lower treaty rate) unless the dividends are effectively connected with a U.S.
trade or business of the shareholder, in which case the dividends will be
subject to tax on a net income basis at the graduated rates applicable to U.S.
individuals or domestic corporations. Distributions treated as long term capital
gains to foreign shareholders will not be subject to U.S. tax unless the
distributions are effectively connected with the shareholder's trade or business
in the United States or, in the case of a shareholder who is a nonresident alien
individual, the shareholder was present in the United States for more than 182
days during the taxable year and certain other conditions are met.
In the case of a foreign shareholder who is a nonresident alien individual
or foreign entity, a Fund may be required to withhold U.S. federal income tax as
"backup withholding" at the rate of 31% from distributions treated as long-term
capital gains and from the proceeds of redemptions, exchanges or other
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dispositions of Fund shares unless IRS Form W-8 is provided. Transfers by gift
of shares of a Fund by a foreign shareholder who is a nonresident alien
individual will not be subject to U.S. federal gift tax, but the value of shares
of the Fund held by such a shareholder at his or her death will be includible in
his or her gross estate for U.S. federal estate tax purposes.
FOREIGN TAXES. It is expected that the Equity, Capital Appreciation,
International Equity, Emerging Markets Equity, International Opportunities,
Diversified, European Equity, Japan Equity and Asia Growth Funds may be subject
to foreign withholding taxes on other foreign taxes with respect to income
(possibly including, in some cases, capital gains) received from sources within
foreign countries. In the case of the International Equity, Emerging Markets
Equity, International Opportunities, European Equity, Japan Equity and Asia
Growth Funds, so long as more than 50% in value of the total assets of the Fund
(including its share of the assets of the corresponding Portfolio) at the close
of any taxable year consists of stock or securities of foreign corporations, the
Fund may elect to treat any foreign income taxes deemed paid by it as paid
directly by its shareholders. These Funds will make such an election only if
they deem it to be in the best interest of their respective shareholders. The
Funds will notify their respective shareholders in writing each year if they
make the election and of the amount of foreign income taxes, if any, to be
treated as paid by the shareholders. If a Fund makes the election, each
shareholder will be required to include in his income (in addition to the
dividends and distributions he receives) his proportionate share of the amount
of foreign income taxes deemed paid by the Fund and will be entitled to claim
either a credit (subject to the limitations discussed below) or, if he itemizes
deductions, a deduction for his share of the foreign income taxes in computing
federal income tax liability. (No deduction will be permitted in computing an
individual's alternative minimum tax liability.) A shareholder who is a
nonresident alien individual or a foreign corporation may be subject to U.S.
withholding tax on the income resulting from the election described in this
paragraph, but may not be able to claim a credit or deduction against such U.S.
tax for the foreign taxes treated as having been paid by such shareholder. A
tax-exempt shareholder will not ordinarily benefit from this election.
Shareholders who choose to utilize a credit (rather than a deduction) for
foreign taxes will be subject to the limitation that the credit may not exceed
the shareholder's U.S. tax (determined without regard to the availability of the
credit) attributable to his or her total foreign source taxable income. For
this purpose, the portion of dividends and distributions paid by each of the
International Equity, Emerging Markets Equity, European Equity, Japan Equity and
Asia Growth Funds from its foreign source net investment income will be treated
as foreign source income. Each of these Funds' gains and losses from the sale
of securities will generally be treated as derived from U.S. sources, however,
and certain foreign currency gains and losses likewise will be treated as
derived from U.S. sources. The limitation on the foreign tax credit is applied
separately to foreign source "passive income," such as the portion of dividends
received from the Fund which qualifies as foreign source income. In addition,
the foreign tax credit is allowed to offset only 90% of the alternative minimum
tax imposed on corporations and individuals. Because of these limitations, if
the election is made, shareholders may nevertheless be unable to claim a credit
for the full amount of their proportionate shares of the foreign income taxes
paid by the International Equity, Emerging Markets Equity, International
Opportunities, European Equity, Japan Equity and Asia Growth Funds.
STATE AND LOCAL TAXES. Each Fund may be subject to state or local taxes in
jurisdictions in which the Fund is deemed to be doing business. In addition, the
treatment of a Fund and its shareholders in those states which have income tax
laws might differ from treatment under the federal income tax laws.
Shareholders should consult their own tax advisors with respect to any state or
local taxes.
OTHER TAXATION. The Trust is organized as a Massachusetts business trust
and, under current law, neither the Trust nor any Fund is liable for any income
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or franchise tax in The Commonwealth of Massachusetts, provided that each Fund
continues to qualify as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the
Code. The Portfolios are organized as New York trusts. The Portfolios are not
subject to any federal income taxation or income or franchise tax in the State
of New York or The Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The investment by a Fund in
its corresponding Portfolio does not cause the Fund to be liable for any income
or franchise tax in the State of New York.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
As used in this Statement of Additional Information and the Prospectus, the
term "majority of the outstanding voting securities" means the vote of (i) 67%
or more of the Fund's shares or the Portfolio's outstanding voting securities
present at a meeting, if the holders of more than 50% of the Fund's outstanding
shares or the Portfolio's outstanding voting securities are present or
represented by proxy, or (ii) more than 50% of the Fund's outstanding shares or
the Portfolio's outstanding voting securities, whichever is less.
Telephone calls to the Funds, Morgan or Eligible Institutions as
shareholder servicing agent may be tape recorded. This Statement of Additional
Information and the Prospectus do not contain all the information included in
the Trust's Registration Statement filed with the SEC under the 1933 Act and the
Trust's and the Portfolios' Registration Statements filed under the 1940 Act.
Pursuant to the rules and regulations of the SEC, certain portions have been
omitted. The Registration Statements including the exhibits filed therewith may
be examined at the office of the SEC in Washington D.C.
Statements contained in this Statement of Additional Information and the
Prospectus concerning the contents of any contract or other document are not
necessarily complete, and in each instance, reference is made to the copy of
such contract or other document filed as an exhibit to the applicable
Registration Statements. Each such statement is qualified in all respects by
such reference.
No dealer, salesman or any other person has been authorized to give any
information or to make any representations, other than those contained in the
Prospectus and this Statement of Additional Information, in connection with the
offer contained therein and, if given or made, such other information or
representations must not be relied upon as having been authorized by any of the
Trust, the Funds or the Distributor. The Prospectus and this Statement of
Additional Information do not constitute an offer by any Fund or by the
Distributor to sell or solicit any offer to buy any of the securities offered
hereby in any jurisdiction to any person to whom it is unlawful for the Fund or
the Distributor to make such offer in such jurisdictions.
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The current financial statements of the Funds (except for the International
Opportunities Fund) are incorporated herein by reference from the Funds' annual
reports and, if applicable, semi-annual reports as filed with the SEC pursuant
to Section 30(b) of the 1940 Act and Rule 30b2-1 thereunder. A copy of each
such report will be provided, without charge, to each person receiving this
Statement of Additional Information.
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APPENDIX A
DESCRIPTION OF SECURITY RATINGS
STANDARD & POOR'S
CORPORATE AND MUNICIPAL BONDS
AAA - Debt rated AAA has the highest ratings assigned by Standard & Poor's
to a debt obligation. Capacity to pay interest and repay principal is extremely
strong.
AA - Debt rated AA has a very strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal and differs from the highest rated issues only in a small degree.
A - Debt rated A has a strong capacity to pay interest and repay principal
although it is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in
circumstances and economic conditions than debt in higher rated categories.
BBB - Debt rated BBB is regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay interest
and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibits adequate protection
parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more
likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay interest and repay principal for
debt in this category than for debt in higher rated categories.
BB - Debt rated BB is regarded as having less near-term vulnerability to default
than other speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or
exposure to adverse business, financial or economic conditions which could lead
to inadequate capacity to meet timely interest and principal payments.
COMMERCIAL PAPER, INCLUDING TAX EXEMPT
A - Issues assigned this highest rating are regarded as having the greatest
capacity for timely payment. Issues in this category are further refined with
the designations 1, 2, and 3 to indicate the relative degree of safety.
A-1 - This designation indicates that the degree of safety regarding timely
payment is very strong.
SHORT-TERM TAX-EXEMPT NOTES
SP-1 - The short-term tax-exempt note rating of SP-1 is the highest rating
assigned by Standard & Poor's and has a very strong or strong capacity to pay
principal and interest. Those issues determined to possess overwhelming safety
characteristics are given a "plus" (+) designation.
SP-2 - The short-term tax-exempt note rating of SP-2 has a satisfactory capacity
to pay principal and interest.
MOODY'S
CORPORATE AND MUNICIPAL BONDS
Aaa - Bonds which are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality. They
carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally referred to as
"gilt edge." Interest payments are protected by a large or by an exceptionally
stable margin and principal is secure. While the various protective elements
are likely to change, such changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to
impair the fundamentally strong position of such issues.
Aa - Bonds which are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all standards.
Together with the Aaa group they comprise what are generally known as high grade
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bonds. They are rated lower than the best bonds because margins of protection
may not be as large as in Aaa securities or fluctuation of protective elements
may be of greater amplitude or there may be other elements present which make
the long term risks appear somewhat larger than in Aaa securities.
A - Bonds which are rated A possess many favorable investment attributes and are
to be considered as upper medium grade obligations. Factors giving security to
principal and interest are considered adequate but elements may be present which
suggest a susceptibility to impairment sometime in the future.
Baa - Bonds which are rated Baa are considered as medium grade obligations,
i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly secured. Interest payments
and principal security appear adequate for the present but certain protective
elements may be lacking or may be characteristically unreliable over any great
length of time. Such bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in
fact have speculative characteristics as well.
Ba - Bonds which are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements; their
future cannot be considered as well-assured. Often the protection of interest
and principal payments may be very moderate, and thereby not well safeguarded
during both good and bad times over the future. Uncertainty of position
characterizes bonds in this class.
COMMERCIAL PAPER, INCLUDING TAX EXEMPT
Prime-1 - Issuers rated Prime-1 (or related supporting institutions) have a
superior capacity for repayment of short-term promissory obligations. Prime-1
repayment capacity will normally be evidenced by the following characteristics:
- - Leading market positions in well established industries.
- - High rates of return on funds employed.
- - Conservative capitalization structures with moderate reliance on debt and
ample asset protection.
- - Broad margins in earnings coverage of fixed financial charges and high
internal cash generation.
- - Well established access to a range of financial markets and assured sources of
alternate liquidity.
SHORT-TERM TAX EXEMPT NOTES
MIG-1 - The short-term tax-exempt note rating MIG-1 is the highest rating
assigned by Moody's for notes judged to be the best quality. Notes with this
rating enjoy strong protection from established cash flows of funds for their
servicing or from established and broad-based access to the market for
refinancing, or both.
MIG-2 - MIG-2 rated notes are of high quality but with margins of protection not
as large as MIG-1.
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APPENDIX B
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONCERNING NEW YORK MUNICIPAL OBLIGATIONS
The following information is a summary of special factors affecting
investments in New York municipal obligations. It does not purport to be a
complete description and is based on information from the supplement (dated
March 20, 1996) to the Annual Information Statement of the State of New York
dated June 23, 1995 and other sources of information.
GENERAL
New York (the "State") is among the most populous states in the nation and
has a relatively high level of personal wealth. The State's economy is diverse
with a comparatively large share of the nation's finance, insurance,
transportation, communications and services employment, and a very small share
of the nation's farming and mining activity. The State's location, air
transport facilities and natural harbors have made it an important link in
international commerce. Travel and tourism constitute an important part of the
economy. The State has a declining proportion of its workforce engaged in
manufacturing and an increasing proportion engaged in service industries. This
transition reflects a national trend.
The State has historically been one of the wealthiest states in the nation.
The State economy has grown more slowly than that of the nation as a whole,
resulting in the gradual erosion of its relative economic affluence. Statewide,
urban centers have experienced significant changes involving migration of the
more affluent to the suburbs and an influx of generally less affluent residents.
Regionally, the older northeast cities have suffered because of the relative
success that the South and the West have had in attracting people and business.
New York City (the "City") has also had to face greater competition as other
major cities have developed financial and business capabilities which make them
less dependent on the specialized services traditionally available almost
exclusively in the City.
Although industry and commerce are broadly spread across the State,
particular activities are concentrated in the following areas: Westchester
County -- headquarters for several major corporations; Buffalo -- diverse
manufacturing base; Rochester -- manufacture of photographic and optical
equipment; Syracuse and Utica-Rome area -- production of machinery and
transportation equipment; Albany-Troy-Schenectady -- government and education
center and production of electrical products; Binghampton -- original site of
the International Business Machines Corporation and continued concentration of
employment in computer and other high technology manufacturing; and New York
City -- headquarters for the nation's securities business and for a major
portion of the nation's major commercial banks, diversified financial
institutions and life insurance companies. In addition, the City houses the
home offices of major radio and television broadcasting networks, many national
magazines and a substantial portion of the nation's book publishers. The City
also retains leadership in the design and manufacture of men's and women's
apparel and is traditionally a tourist destination.
ECONOMIC OUTLOOK
The economic and financial condition of the State may be affected by
various financial, social, economic and political factors. Those factors can be
very complex, may vary from fiscal year to fiscal year, and are frequently the
result of actions taken not only by the State and its agencies and
instrumentalities, but also by entities, such as the federal government, that
are not under the control of the State. The state financial plan is based upon
forecasts of national and State economic activity. Economic forecasts have at
times failed to predict precisely the timing and magnitude of changes in the
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national and the State economies. Many uncertainties exist in forecasts of both
the national and State economies, including consumer attitudes toward spending,
the extent of corporate and governmental restructuring, federal financial and
monetary policies, the availability of credit, the level of interest rates, and
the condition of the world economy. All these could have an adverse effect on
the State. There can be no assurance that the State's economy will not
experience financial results in the current fiscal year that are worse than
predicted, with corresponding material and adverse effects on the State's
projections of receipts and disbursements.
The national economy achieved the desired "soft landing" in 1995, as growth
slowed from 6.2 percent in 1994 to a rate sufficiently slow to inhibit the
build-up of inflationary pressures. This was achieved without any material
pause in the economic expansion, although recession worries flared in the late
spring and early summer. Growth in the national economy is expected to moderate
during 1996, with the nation's gross domestic product projected to expand by 4.6
percent in 1996 versus 5.0 percent in 1995. Declining short-term interest
rates, slowing employment growth and continued moderate inflation also
characterize the projected path for the nation's economy in the year ahead.
The annual growth rates of most economic indicators for the State improved
from 1994 to 1995, as the pace of private sector employment expansion and
personal income and wage growth all accelerated. Government employment fell as
workforce reductions were implemented at federal, state and local levels.
Similar to the nation, some moderation of growth is expected in the year ahead.
Private sector employment is expected to continue to rise, although somewhat
more slowly than in 1995, while public employment should continue to fall,
reflecting government budget cutbacks. Anticipated continued restraint in wage
settlements, a lower rate of employment growth and falling interest rates are
expected to slow personal income growth significantly.
The State has for many years had a very high State and local tax burden
relative to other states. The State and its localities have used these taxes to
develop and maintain their transportation networks, public schools and colleges,
public health systems, other social services and recreational facilities.
Despite these benefits, the burden of State and local taxation, in combination
with the many other causes of regional economic dislocation, may have
contributed to the decisions of some businesses and individuals to relocate
outside, or not locate within, the State.
To stimulate the State's economic growth, the State has developed programs,
including the provision of direct financial assistance, designed to assist
businesses to expand existing operations located within the State and to attract
new businesses to the State. Local industrial development agencies raised an
aggregate of approximately $7.8 billion in separate tax-exempt bond issues
through December 31, 1993. There are currently over 100 county, city, town and
village agencies. In addition, the New York State Urban Development Corporation
is empowered to issue, subject to certain State constitutional restrictions and
to approval by the Public Authorities Control Board, bonds and notes on behalf
of private corporations for economic development projects. The State has also
taken advantage of changes in federal bank regulations to establish a free
international banking zone in the City.
In addition, the State has provided various tax incentives to encourage
business relocation and expansion. These programs include direct tax abatements
from local property taxes for new facilities (subject to locality approval) and
investment tax credits that are applied against the State corporation franchise
tax. Furthermore, legislation passed in 1986 authorizes the creation of up to
40 "economic development zones" in economically distressed regions of the State.
Businesses in these zones are provided a variety of tax and other incentives to
create jobs and make investments in the zones.
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The executive budget contains comparatively few tax initiatives. However,
the Governor has set aside $50 million to finance a program of additional tax
cuts designed to spur private sector job creation in the State. The Governor
intends to work jointly with the business community and the legislature to
determine the elements of the program. For financial plan purposes, the
$50 million is shown as a charge against the personal income tax, implemented
through a deposit to the refund reserve. Additional tax reductions were called
for by the Governor in his annual message to the legislature of January 3, 1996,
but no specific implementation plans have been announced.
STATE FINANCIAL PLAN
The State Constitution requires the Governor to submit to the legislature a
balanced executive budget which contains a complete plan of expenditures (the
"State Financial Plan") for the ensuing fiscal year and all moneys and revenues
estimated to be available therefor, accompanied by bills containing all proposed
appropriations or reappropriations and any new or modified revenue measures to
be enacted in connection with the executive budget. A final budget must be
approved before the statutory deadline of April 1. The State Financial Plan is
updated quarterly pursuant to law.
The State's fiscal year, which commenced on April 1, 1996, and ends on
March 31, 1997, is referred to herein as the State's 1996-97 fiscal year.
The State revised the cash-basis 1995-96 State Financial Plan on
December 15, 1995, in conjunction with the release of the executive budget for
the 1996-97 fiscal year.
The 1995-96 General Fund Financial Plan continues to be balanced, with
reductions in projected receipts offset by an equivalent reduction in projected
disbursements. Modest changes were made to the mid-year update, reflecting two
more months of actual results, deficiency requests by State agencies (the
largest of which is for school aid resulting from revisions to data submitted by
school districts), and administrative efficiencies achieved by State agencies.
Total General Fund receipts are expected to be approximately $73 million lower
than estimated at the time of the mid-year update. Tax receipts are now
projected to be $29.57 billion, $8 million less than in the earlier plan.
Miscellaneous receipts and transfers from other funds are estimated at
$3.15 billion, $65 million lower than in the mid-year update. The largest
single change in these estimates is attributable to the lag in achieving
$50 million in proceeds from sales of State assets, which are unlikely to be
completed prior to the end of the fiscal year.
Projected General Fund disbursements are reduced by a total of $73 million,
with changes made in most major categories of the 1995-96 State Financial Plan.
The reduction in overall spending masks the impact of deficiency requests
totaling more than $140 million, primarily for school aid and tuition assistance
to college students. Offsetting reductions in spending are attributable to the
continued maintenance of strict controls on spending through the fiscal year by
State agencies, yielding savings of $50 million. Reductions of $49 million in
support for capital projects reflect a stringent review of all capital spending.
Reductions of $30 million in debt service costs reflect savings from refundings
undertaken in the current fiscal year, as well as savings from lower interest
rates in the financial market. Finally, the 1995-96 Financial Plan reflects
reestimates based on actual results through November, the largest of which is a
reduction of $70 million in projected costs for income maintenance. This
reduction is consistent with declining caseload projections.
The balance in the General Fund at the close of the 1995-96 fiscal year is
expected to be $172 million, entirely attributable to monies in the Tax
Stabilization Reserve Fund following the required $15 million payment into that
Fund. A $40 million deposit to the Contingency Reserve Fund included as part of
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the enacted 1995-96 budget will not be made, and the minor balance of $1 million
currently in the Fund will be transferred to the General Fund. These
Contingency Reserve Fund monies are expected to support payments from the
General Fund for litigation related to the State's Medicaid program, and for
federal disallowances.
Changes in federal aid programs currently pending in Congress are not
expected to have a material impact on the State's 1995-96 Financial Plan,
although prolonged interruptions in the receipt of federal grants could create
adverse developments, the scope of which cannot be estimated at this time. The
major remaining uncertainties in the 1995-96 State Financial Plan continue to be
those related to the economy and tax collections, which could produce either
favorable or unfavorable variances during the balance of the year.
The Governor presented his 1996-97 executive budget to the legislature on
December 15, 1995, one month before the legal deadline. The executive budget
also contains financial projections for the State's 1997-98 and 1998-99 fiscal
years and an updated Capital Plan. As provided by the State Constitution, the
Governor submitted amendments to his 1996-97 executive budget within 30 days
following submission. Those amendments are reflected in the discussion of the
1996-97 executive budget contained herein. There can be no assurance that the
legislature will enact the executive budget as proposed by the Governor into
law, or that the State's adopted budget projections will not differ materially
and adversely from the projections.
The 1996-97 Financial Plan projects balance on a cash basis in the General
Fund. It reflects a continuing strategy of substantially reduced State
spending, including program restructuring, reductions in social welfare
spending, and efficiency and productivity initiatives. Total General Fund
receipts and transfers from other funds are projected to be $31.32 billion, a
decrease of $1.4 billion from total receipts projected in the current fiscal
year. Total General Fund disbursements and transfers to other funds are
projected to be $31.22 billion, a decrease of $l.5 billion from spending totals
projected for the current fiscal year. After adjustments and transfers for
comparability between the 1995-96 and 1996-97 State Financial Plans, the
executive budget proposes an absolute year-to-year decline in General Fund
spending of 5.8 percent. Spending from all funding sources (including federal
aid) is proposed to increase by 0.4 percent from the prior fiscal year after
adjustments and transfers for comparability.
The executive budget proposes $3.9 billion in actions to balance the
1996-97 Financial Plan. Before reflecting any actions proposed by the Governor
to restrain spending, General Fund disbursements for 1996-97 were projected at
$35 billion, an increase of $2.3 billion or 7 percent from 1995-96. This
increase would have resulted from growth in Medicaid, inflationary increases in
school aid, higher fixed costs such as pensions and debt service, collective
bargaining agreements, inflation, and the loss of non-recurring resources that
offset spending in 1995-96. Receipts would have been expected to fall by
$l.6 billion. This reduction would have been attributable to modest growth in
the State's economy and underlying tax base, the loss of non-recurring revenues
available in 1995-96 and implementation of previously enacted tax reduction
programs.
The executive budget proposes to close this gap primarily through a series
of spending reductions and cost containment measures. The executive budget
projects (i) over $1.8 billion in savings from cost containment and other
actions in social welfare programs, including Medicaid, welfare and various
health and mental health programs; (ii) $1.3 billion in savings from a reduced
State General Fund share of Medicaid made available from anticipated changes in
the federal Medicaid program, including an increase in the federal share of
Medicaid; (iii) over $450 million in savings from reforms and cost avoidance in
educational services (including school aid and higher education), while
providing fiscal
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relief from certain State mandates that increase local spending; and (iv)
$350 million in savings from efficiencies and reductions in other State
programs. The assumption regarding an increased share of federal Medicaid
funding has received bipartisan congressional support and would benefit the
State and 31 other states.
The 1996-97 Financial Plan projects receipts of $31.32 billion and spending
of $31.22 billion, allowing for a deposit of $85 million to the Contingency
Reserve Fund and a required repayment of $15 million to the Tax Stabilization
Reserve Fund. Detailed explanations of the 1996-97 Financial Plan follow a
discussion of the economic outlook.
The Governor has submitted several amendments to the executive budget.
These amendments have a nominal impact on the State's Financial Plan for 1996-97
and the subsequent years. The net impact of the amendments leaves unchanged the
total estimated amount of General Fund spending in 1996-97, which continues to
be projected at $31.22 billion. All funds spending in 1996-97 is increased by
$68 million, primarily reflecting adjustments to projections of federal funds,
and now totals $63.87 billion.
The budget amendments advanced by the Governor involving largely technical
revisions, with General Fund spending increases fully offset by spending
decreases. Reductions in estimated 1996-97 disbursements are recommended
primarily for welfare (associated with updated projections showing a declining
caseload) and debt service (reflecting lower interest rates and recent bond
sales). Disbursement increases are projected for snow and ice control, the AIDS
Institute, Health Department utilization review programs and other items.
Estimated disbursements for other funds are increased to accommodate updated
projections of federal funding in certain categorical grant programs and reduced
for welfare as noted for the General Fund.
GOVERNMENT FUNDS
The four governmental fund types that comprise the State Financial Plan are
the General Fund, the Special Revenue Funds, the Capital Projects Funds, and the
Debt Service Funds.
GENERAL FUND RECEIPTS
The 1996-97 Financial Plan projects General Fund receipts (including
transfers from other funds) of $31.32 billion, a decrease of $1.40 billion from
the 1995-96 projected level. Measured against 1995-96 levels that have been
adjusted for purposes of comparability, the decline is $1.83 billion or
5.5 percent. These 1995-96 comparability adjustments include adding back
personal income tax collections that were not recognized in 1995-96 as a result
of Local Government Assistance Corporation ("LGAC")-related transactions in that
year, and the addition of special revenue funds moved in the executive budget to
the General Fund. The estimate of taxes for 1996-97 reflects overall growth in
the yield of the tax structures (when adjusted for tax law and administrative
changes) of slightly less than 3.5 percent, reflecting a slower growing economy
and continued moderate inflation. The effects of this growth are offset by the
impact of previously enacted tax reductions. The value of these tax reductions
is currently estimated to be approximately $500 million in 1994-95, nearly
$1.5 billion in 1995-96 and over $3.7 billion in 1996-97.
Personal income tax collections for 1996-97 are now expected to be
$16.05 billion, a decline of nearly $827 million from the projected 1995-96
level. These estimates reflect growth in "constant law" liability of about
4.5 percent in 1996, down from an estimated 6.5 percent growth in 1995. This
increase is more than offset by personal income tax reductions already in law,
which are estimated to produce taxpayer savings in 1996-97 of almost
$2.5 billion, or $1.8 billion more than in the current year.
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User tax and fee receipts are projected at $6.7 billion in 1996-97, up
$48 million from 1995-96 projected levels. Total collections in this category
are dominated by the State sales and use tax, which accounts for 75 percent of
total receipts in the category. The moderate economic expansion experienced
this year and anticipated for next year produces estimated growth in the yield
of the sales and use tax of 3.2 percent in 1995-96 and 3.3 percent in 1996-97.
Total business taxes are now projected at $4.55 billion in 1996-97. While
"constant-law" liability growth is anticipated to continue in 1996-97, the
effect of additional tax reductions taking effect in 1996 will lead to a
year-to-year decline between 1996-96 and 1996-97 of $441 million. These
business tax reductions, which are estimated to depress receipts by over
$600 million in the current year, will grow to nearly $l.0 billion in 1996-97.
Other tax receipts are now projected at $1.01 billion, down $51 million
from the 1995-96 projected level. The decline in receipts in this category
reflects the effects of tax reductions enacted in the last two years as well as
the earmarking of a portion of the real estate transfer tax to the Environmental
Protection Fund. Tax cuts in this category, largely in the real property gains
tax and the estate tax, are estimated at $32 million in 1994-95, $67 million in
1995-96 and $115 million in 1996-97.
Miscellaneous receipts, which include license revenues, fee and fine
income, investment income and abandoned property proceeds, as well as the
proceeds of the largest share of the State's medical provider assessment and
various one-time transactions, are now estimated to total $1.41 billion in
1996-97. This represents a decline of $119 million from 1995-96 projected
levels. Transfers from other funds consist primarily of sales tax revenues in
excess of debt service requirements used to support debt service payments to
LGAC. Projected amounts in this category for 1996-97 total $1.61 billion, a
decline of $8 million from 1995-96 levels.
DISBURSEMENTS
The 1996-97 Financial Plan projects General Fund disbursements of
$31.22 billion. Projected spending decreases $1.48 billion, or 4.5 percent,
from the estimated current year. After adjustments to 1995-96 levels for
purposes of comparability, the decline is $l.91 billion or 5.8 percent. These
comparability adjustments are composed of two major actions. The first
eliminates the impact of LGAC financings, which depressed General Fund spending
in 1995-96 by $271 million. The second adjustment adds $159 million in
projected 1995-96 spending currently budgeted in Special Revenue Funds, but
recommended as part of the General Fund in the 1996-97 budget.
Support for local governments is projected to decrease $1.7 billion,
primarily reflecting decreased support for social programs. General Fund
support for Medicaid is projected to be $1.65 billion lower than 1995-96, as a
result of both new cost containment proposals and the anticipated use of
$1.3 billion in federal Medicaid revenues that would become available assuming
enactment of proposed federal changes in this program. This proposed offset to
the State share of Medicaid would require the implementation of a federal block
grant for Medicaid and an increase in the federal share of Medicaid from 50
percent to 60 percent. Welfare costs also decline ($164 million), reflecting
projected caseload declines, time limits on benefits, reductions in benefits,
and continuation of workfare and anti-fraud initiatives begun in 1995-96.
General Fund support for education programs would increase by $188 million.
However, this increase results from changes in the school aid payment schedule,
and the payment in 1995-96 of a portion of school aid from LGAC bond proceeds.
School aid is expected to increase $26 million on a school year basis. Support
for both State University (SUNY) and City University (CUNY) would decline, and
the State's tuition assistance program would be reduced to achieve savings.
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Support for State agency operations would decline to $6.0 billion in
1996-97 including transfers to support SUNY operations. Annual decreases for
agencies range widely from as low as 0.3 percent to as high as 25 percent. This
decline reflects the reductions to the State's workforce. The executive budget
recommends reductions of approximately 7,400 positions, undertaken primarily
through attrition and other actions. Assuming these reductions are implemented,
the State's workforce will have declined by more than 20,000 positions between
January 1995 and the end of the 1996-97 fiscal year.
General State charges are projected to total $2.32 billion in 1996-97, an
increase of $252 million from 1995-96 projected levels. Pension costs are
expected to increase by $177 million in 1996-97, primarily as a result of the
return of the New York State and Local Retirement System from the projected unit
credit actuarial method to the aggregate cost actuarial method. Health
insurance costs are projected to increase 6 percent for calendar years 1996 and
1997. Workers' compensation costs are projected to grow by 4.5 percent.
General Fund debt service includes short-term obligations of the State's
commercial paper program and debt service on its long-term bonds, which are
reflected as transfers to the General Debt Service Fund. Projected short-term
debt service costs are expected to be $12 million for 1996-97. Transfers in
support of debt service are projected to grow by 5.5 percent to $1.62 billion in
1996-97, as the State continues to use bonds to support its capital projects.
However, the rate of increase in debt service has slowed considerably from the
pace of the previous decade. In 1996-97, bonds are expected to support
44 percent of the State's capital project disbursements, compared to 48 percent
in 1995-96. The $172 million transfer to the Capital Projects Fund in 1996-97
has been reduced by $154 million from projected levels for 1995-96, reflecting
project eliminations and the deposit of funds released as a result of a
refunding of certain Housing Finance Agency bonds supported by State
appropriations. General Fund support for the operations of SUNY is proposed for
transfer into a single unified fund for all SUNY operations.
NON-RECURRING RESOURCES
The Division of the Budget estimates that the 1996-97 Financial Plan
includes approximately $123 million in non-recurring resources, comprising
0.4 percent of the General Fund budget--a decrease of almost 86 percent from
last year's level. These include $47 million in various Medicaid actions,
$40 million from a refunding of Housing Finance Agency bonds, $19 million in
recoupment of payments to providers in health and mental health, and $17 million
in revenue transfers. These non-recurring savings are almost entirely offset by
non-recurring costs within the 1996-97 budget. In addition, the recommendations
included in the executive budget are expected to provide fully annualized
savings in 1997-98 which more than offset the non-recurring resources used in
1996-97.
GENERAL FUND CLOSING FUND BALANCE
The 1996-97 closing fund balance in the General Fund is projected to be
$272 million. The required deposit to the Tax Stabilization Reserve Fund adds
$15 million to the 1995-96 balance of $172 million in that fund, bringing the
total to $187 million at the close of 1996-97. The retraining General Fund
balance reflects the deposit of $85 million to the Contingency Reserve Fund, to
provide resources to finance potential costs associated with litigation against
the State. This deposit is expected to be made pursuant to legislation
submitted with the executive budget which will require the State share of
certain non-recurring federal recoveries to be deposited to the Contingency
Reserve Fund.
SPECIAL REVENUE FUNDS
For 1996-97, the Financial Plan projects disbursements of $28.93 billion
from Special Revenue Funds. This includes $7.65 billion from Special Revenue
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Funds containing State revenues, and $21.28 billion from funds containing
federal grants, primarily for social welfare programs.
The 1996-97 executive budget recommends that all of the SUNY's revenues be
consolidated in a single fund, permitting SUNY more flexibility and control in
the use of its revenues. As a result of this proposal, General Fund support
would be transferred to this fund, rather than spent directly from the General
Fund. SUNY's spending from this fund is projected to total $2.55 billion in
1996-97. The Mass Transportation Operating Assistance Fund and the Dedicated
Mass Transportation Trust Fund, which receive taxes earmarked for mass
transportation programs throughout the State, are projected to have total
disbursements of $1.23 billion in 1996-97. Disbursements also include
$1.63 billion in lottery proceeds which, after payment of administrative
expenses, permit the distribution of $1.43 billion for education purposes. One
hundred million dollars of lottery proceeds will be reserved in a separate
account for a local school tax reduction program to be agreed upon by the
Governor and the legislature for disbursement in State fiscal year 1997-98.
Disbursements of $650 million in 1996-97 from the Disproportionate Share
Medicaid Assistance Fund constitutes most of the remaining estimated State
Special Revenue Funds disbursements.
Federal special revenue fund projections for 1996-97 were developed in the
midst of considerable uncertainty as to the ultimate composition of the federal
budget, including uncertainties regarding major federal entitlement reforms.
Disbursements are estimated at $21.27 billion in 1996-97, an increase of
$2.02 billion, or 10.5 percent from 1995-96. The projections included in the
1996-97 State Financial Plan assume that the federal Medicaid program will be
reformed generally along the lines of the congressional MediGrant program. This
would include an increase from 50 percent to 60 percent in the federal share of
New York's Medicaid expenses. A repeal of the federal Boren amendment regarding
provider rates is also anticipated. As a result of these changes, the executive
budget projects the receipt of $13.1 billion in total federal Medicaid
reimbursements in 1996-97, an increase of approximately $915 million from the
1995-96 level.
The second largest projected increase in federal reimbursement is for the
State's welfare program. The State is projected to receive $2.5 billion, up
$421 million from 1995-96 levels, primarily because of increased funding
anticipated from the proposed federal welfare block grant. All other federal
spending is projected at $5.7 billion for 1996-97, an increase of $626 million.
CAPITAL PROJECTS FUNDS
Disbursements from the Capital Projects funds in 1996-97 are estimated at
$3.76 billion. This estimate is $332 million less than the 1995-96 projections.
The spending reductions are the result of program restructuring, achieved in
1995-96 and continued in the 1996-97 Financial Plan. The spending plan
includes:
$2.5 billion in disbursements for the second year of the five-year
$12.6 billion state and local highway and bridge program;
Environmental Protection Fund spending of $106.5 million;
Correctional services spending of $153 million; and
SUNY and CUNY capital spending of $196 million and $87 million,
respectively.
The share of capital projects to be financed by "pay-as-you-go" resources
is projected to hold steady in 1996-97 at approximately 27 percent.
State-supported bond issuances finance 44 percent of capital projects, with
federal grants financing the remaining 29 percent.
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DEBT SERVICE FUNDS
Disbursements from Debt Service Funds are estimated at $2.64 billion in
1996-97, an increase of $206 million or 9 percent from 1995-96. Of this
increase, $85 million is attributable to transportation bonding for the state
and local highway and bridge programs which are financed by the Dedicated
Highway and Bridge Trust Fund, $35 million is for corrections including new debt
service on prisons recently purchased from New York City, and $27 million is for
the mental hygiene programs financed through the Mental Health Services Fund.
Debt service for LGAC bonds increases only slightly after years of significant
increases, as the new-money bond issuance portion of the LGAC program was
completed in state fiscal year 1995-96. Increased debt service costs primarily
reflect prior capital commitments financed by bonds issued by the state and its
public authorities, the reduced use of capitalized interest, and the use of
shorter term bonds, such as the 10 year average maturity for the Dedicated
Highway and Bridge Trust Fund bonds.
CASH FLOW
In State fiscal year 1996-97, the General Fund cash flow will not depend on
either short-term spring borrowing or the issuance of LGAC bonds. The new-money
bond issuance portion of the LGAC program was completed in 1995-96, and
provisions prohibiting the state from returning to a reliance upon cash flow
manipulation to balance its budget will remain in bond covenants until the LGAC
bonds are retired.
The 1996-97 cash flow projects substantial closing balances in each quarter
of the fiscal year, with excesses in receipts over disbursements for the first
three quarters until the last quarter of the fiscal year when local assistance
payments (primarily for school aid) drive a deficiency. The closing fund
balance is projected at $272 million. The cash flow projections assume
continuation of legislation enacted in 1995-96 that permits the state to use
balances in the Lottery Fund for cash flow purposes. These temporary transfers
are returned during the second quarter of the fiscal year so that all lottery
monies and advances of additional aid can be paid to school districts in
September.
OUTYEAR PROJECTIONS OF RECEIPTS AND DISBURSEMENTS
The 1996-97 executive budget includes actions that would have an impact on
receipts and disbursements in future fiscal years. The Governor has proposed
closing the 1996-97 budget gap primarily through expenditure reductions and
without increases in taxes or deferrals of scheduled tax reductions. After
accounting for proposed changes to the executive budget submitted during the
30-day amendment period, the net impact of these actions is expected to produce
a potential imbalance in the 1997-98 fiscal year of $l.44 billion and in the
1998-99 fiscal year of $2.46 billion, assuming implementation of the 1996-97
executive budget recommendations. For 1997-98, receipts are estimated at
$30.62 billion and disbursements at $32.05 billion. For 1998-99, receipts are
estimated at $31.85 billion and disbursements at $34.32 billion.
The outyear receipts estimates assume implementation of current law tax
reductions and the impact of the recommendations affecting receipts proposed in
the executive budget, including new tax relief. Tax reductions proposed by the
Governor in his annual message to the legislature of January 3, 1996 are not
included in these estimates. Already enacted tax reductions, which are estimated
to total more than $3.7 billion in 1996-97, rise to approximately $5.6 billion
in 1997-98 and approximately $6.0 billion in the following year. Tax reductions
recommended in the executive budget have a fully annualized cost of $75 million.
The economic scenario assumes steady, moderate growth in the national economy
through the period. Underlying "constant law" growth in receipts approximates 4
percent in 1997-98 and 4.5 percent in 1998-99. No extraordinary one-time
receipts
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are anticipated at this time. In addition, the projections assume a continuation
of federal tax law in effect as of year end 1995.
Outyear projections of spending, absent the impact of recommendations in
the executive budget and future executive and legislative action, would grow by
3.0 and 3.5 percent in 1997-98 and 1998-99, respectively. Spending growth is
fueled mainly by Medicaid costs. The outyear value of the recommendations
contained in the executive budget grow steadily over the next two years,
moderating the outyear growth. Projected disbursements for 1997-98 grow by only
2.7 percent, with restrained growth in all categories of the State Financial
Plan. However, in 1998-99, the increased diversion of lottery proceeds to fund
school tax relief combines with an extra payroll and Medicaid cycle to drive
growth in disbursements of just over 7 percent.
Reduced bond issuances in 1996-97 will help hold down future debt service
growth. State-supported debt is projected to grow at 3.7 percent average annual
rate over the next five years. Outstanding debt as a percentage of personal
income is projected to decline to under 6 percent over this same period.
PRIOR FISCAL YEARS
New York State's financial operations have improved during recent fiscal
years. During the period 1989-90 through 1991-92, the State incurred General
Fund operating deficits that were closed with receipts from the issuance of tax
and revenue anticipation notes ("TRANs"). First, the national recession, and
then the lingering economic slowdown in the New York and regional economy,
resulted in repeated shortfalls in receipts and three budget deficits. Through
fiscal year 1995, the State recorded balanced budgets on a cash basis, with
substantial fund balances in each year as described below.
1994-95 FISCAL YEAR
New York State ended its 1994-95 fiscal year with the General Fund in
balance. The closing fund balance of $158 million reflects $157 million in the
Tax Stabilization Reserve Fund and $1 million in the Contingency Reserve Fund
("CRF"). The CRF was established in State Fiscal year 1993-94, funded partly
with surplus moneys, to assist the State in financing the 1994-95 fiscal year
costs of extraordinary litigation known or anticipated at that time; the opening
fund balance in State fiscal year 1994-95 was $265 million. The $241 million
change in the fund balance reflects the use of $264 million in the CRF as
planned, as well as the required deposit of $23 million to the Tax Stabilization
Reserve Fund. In addition, $278 million was on deposit in the tax refund reserve
account, $250 million of which was deposited at the end of the State's 1994-95
fiscal year to continue the process of restructuring the State's cash flow as
part of the LGAC program.
Compared to the State Financial Plan for 1994-95 as formulated on June 16,
1994, reported receipts fell short of original projections by $1.163 billion,
primarily in the categories of personal income and business taxes. Of this
amount, the personal income tax accounts for $800 million, reflecting weak
estimated tax collections and lower withholding due to reduced wage and salary
growth, more severe reductions in brokerage industry bonuses than projected
earlier, and deferral of capital gains realizations in anticipation of potential
federal tax changes. Business taxes fell short by $373 million, primarily
reflecting lower payments from banks as substantial overpayments of 1993
liability depressed net collections in the 1994-95 fiscal year. These shortfalls
were offset by better performance in the remaining taxes, particularly the user
taxes and fees, which exceeded projections by $210 million. Of this amount
$227 million was attributable to certain restatements for accounting treatment
purposes pertaining to the CRF and LGAC; these restatements had no impact on
balance in the General Fund.
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Disbursements were also reduced from original projections by $848 million.
After adjusting for the net impact of restatements relating to the CRF and LGAC
which raised disbursements by $38 million, the variance is $886 million. Well
over two-thirds of this variance is in the category of grants to local
governments, primarily reflecting the conservative nature of the original
estimates of projected costs for social services and other programs. Lower
education costs are attributable to the availability of $110 million in
additional lottery proceeds and the use of LGAC bond proceeds.
The spending reductions also reflect $188 million in actions initiated in
January 1995 by the Governor to reduce spending to avert a potential gap in the
1994-95 State Financial Plan. These actions included savings from a hiring
freeze, halting the development of certain services, and the suspension of
non-essential capital projects. These actions, together with $71 million in
other measures comprised the Governor's $259 million gap-closing plan, submitted
to the legislature in connection with the 1995-96 executive budget.
1993-94 FISCAL YEAR
The State ended its 1993-94 fiscal year with a balance of $1.140 billion in
the tax refund reserve account, $265 million in the CRF and $134 million in its
Tax Stabilization Reserve Fund. These fund balances were primarily the result of
an improving national economy, State employment growth, tax collections that
exceeded earlier projections and disbursements that were below expectations.
Deposits to the personal income tax refund reserve have the effect of reducing
reported personal income tax receipts in the fiscal year when made and
withdrawals from such reserve increase receipts in the fiscal year when made.
The balance in the tax refund reserve account was used to pay taxpayer refunds.
Of the $1.140 billion deposited in the tax refund reserve account,
$1.026 billion was available for budgetary planning purposes in the 1994-95
fiscal year. The remaining $114 million was redeposited in the tax refund
reserve account at the end of the State's 1994-95 fiscal year to continue the
process of restructuring the State's cash flow as part of the LGAC program. The
balance in the CRF was reserved to meet the cost of litigation facing the State
in its 1994-95 fiscal year.
Before the deposit of $1.140 billion in the tax refund reserve account,
General Fund receipts in 1993-94 exceeded those originally projected when the
State Financial Plan for that year was formulated on April 16, 1993 by
$1.002 billion. Greater-than-expected receipts in the personal income tax, the
bank tax, the corporation franchise tax and the estate tax accounted for most of
this variance, and more than offset weaker-than-projected collections from the
sales and use tax and miscellaneous receipts. Collections from individual taxes
were affected by various factors including changes in federal business laws,
sustained profitability of banks, strong performance of securities firms, and
higher-than-expected consumption of tobacco products following price cuts.
The higher receipts resulted, in part, because the New York economy
performed better than forecasted. Employment growth started in the first quarter
of the State's 1993-94 fiscal year, and, although this lagged behind the
national economic recovery, the growth in New York began earlier than
forecasted. The New York economy exhibited signs of strength in the service
sector, in construction, and in trade. Long Island and the Mid-Hudson Valley
continued to lag behind the rest of the State in economic growth. The State
Division of the Budget believes that approximately 100,000 jobs were added
during the 1993-94 fiscal year.
Disbursements and transfers from the General Fund were $303 million below
the level projected in April 1993, an amount that would have been $423 million
had the State not accelerated the payment of Medicaid billings, which in the
April 1993 State Financial Plan were planned to be deferred into the 1994-95
fiscal year. Compared to the estimates included in the State Financial Plan
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formulated in April 1993, lower disbursements resulted from lower spending for
Medicaid, capital projects, and debt service (due to refundings) and
$114 million used to restructure the State's cash flow as part of the LGAC
program. Disbursements were higher than expected for general support for public
schools, the State share of income maintenance, overtime for prison guards, and
highway snow and ice removal. The State also made the first of six required
payments to the State of Delaware related to the settlement of Delaware's
litigation against the State regarding the disposition of abandoned property
receipts.
During the 1993-94 fiscal year, the State also established and funded the
CRF as a way to assist the State in financing the cost of litigation affecting
the State. The CRF was initially funded with a transfer of $100 million
attributable to the positive margin recorded in the 1992-93 fiscal year. In
addition, the State augmented this initial deposit with $132 million in debt
service savings attributable to the refinancing of State and public authority
bonds during 1993-94. A year-end transfer of $36 million was also made to the
CRF, which, after a disbursement for authorized fund purposes, brought the CRF
balance at the end of 1993-94 to $265 million. This amount was $165 million
higher than the amount originally targeted for this reserve fund.
1992-93 FISCAL YEAR
The State ended its 1992-93 fiscal year with a balance of $671 million in
the tax refund reserve account and $67 million in the Tax Stabilization Reserve
Fund.
The State's 1992-93 fiscal year was characterized by performance that was
better than projected for the national and regional economies. National gross
domestic product, State personal income, and State employment and unemployment
performed better than originally projected in April 1992. This favorable
economic performance, particularly at year end, combined with a tax-induced
acceleration of income into 1992, was the primary cause of the General Fund
surplus. Personal income tax collections were more than $700 million higher than
originally projected (before reflecting the tax refund reserve account
transaction), primarily in the withholding and estimated payment components of
the tax.
There were large, but mainly offsetting, variances in other categories of
receipts. Significantly higher-than-projected business tax collections and the
receipt of unbudgeted payments from the Medical Malpractice Insurance
Association ("MMIA") and the New York Racing Association approximately offset
the loss of an anticipated $200 million federal reimbursement, the loss of
certain budgeted hospital differential revenue as a result of unfavorable court
decisions, and shortfalls in certain miscellaneous revenues.
Disbursements and transfers to other funds were $45 million above
projections in April 1992, although this includes a $150 million payment to
health insurers (financed with a receipt from the MMIA made pursuant to
legislation passed in January 1993). All other disbursements were $105 million
lower than projected. This reduction primarily reflected lower costs in
virtually all categories of spending, including Medicaid, local health programs,
agency operations, fringe benefits, capital projects and debt service as
partially offset by higher-than-anticipated costs for education programs.
CERTAIN LITIGATION
The legal proceedings noted below involve State finances, State programs
and miscellaneous tort, real property and contract claims in which the State is
a defendant and the monetary damages sought are substantial. These proceedings
could affect adversely the financial condition of the State in the 1995-96
fiscal year or thereafter. The State will describe newly initiated proceedings.
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Among the more significant of these cases are those that involve: (i) the
validity of agreements and treaties by which various Indian tribes transferred
to New York title to certain land in New York; (ii) certain aspects of New
York's Medicaid rates and regulations, including reimbursements to providers of
mandatory and optional Medicaid services, and the eligibility for and nature of
home care services; (iii) challenges to provisions of Section 2807-C of the
Public Health Law, which impose a 13% surcharge on inpatient hospital bills paid
by commercial insurers and employee welfare benefit plans and portions of
Chapter 55 of the laws of 1992, which require hospitals to impose and remit to
the State an 11% surcharge on hospital bills paid by commercial insurers and
which require health maintenance organizations to remit to the State a surcharge
of up to 9%; (iv) two cases challenge provisions of Section 2807-c of the Public
Health Law, which impose a 13 percent surcharge on inpatient hospital bills paid
by commercial insurers and employee welfare benefit plans, and portions of
Chapter 55 of the Laws of 1992 which require hospitals to impose and remit to
the State an 11 percent surcharge on hospital bills paid by commercial insurers
and which require health maintenance organizations to remit to the State a
surcharge of up to 9 percent--in The Travelers Insurance Company v. Cuomo, et
al., commenced June 2, 1992, and The Health Insurance Association of America, et
al. v. Chassin, a al., commenced July 20, 1992, both in the United States
District Court for the Southern District of New York and consolidated,
plaintiffs allege that the surcharges are preempted by federal law (by decision
dated April 26, 1995, the United States Supreme Court upheld the surcharges as
not preempted by federal law); (v) challenges to the practice of reimbursing
certain Office of Mental Health patient care expenses from the client's Social
Security benefits; and (vi) alleged responsibility of New York officials to
assist in remedying racial segregation in the City of Yonkers. In addition,
aspects of petroleum business taxes are the subject of administrative claims and
litigation.
THE CITY OF NEW YORK
The fiscal health of the State of New York is closely related to the fiscal
health of its localities, particularly the City, which has required and
continues to require significant financial assistance from New York. The City's
independently audited operating results for each of its 1981 through 1993 fiscal
years showed a General Fund surplus reported in accordance with GAAP. In
addition, the City's financial statements for the 1995 fiscal year received an
unqualified opinion from the City's independent auditors, the eleventh
consecutive year the City received such an opinion.
As required by the Office of the State Deputy Comptroller for the City of
New York (the "OSDC"), the 1997-1998 Financial Plan reflects a program of
proposed actions by the City to close the gaps between projected revenues and
expenditures of $1.4 billion, $2.2 billion and 2.9 billion for the 1998, 1999
and 2000 fiscal years, respectively. These actions, a substantial number of
which are not specified in detail, include additional agency spending
reductions, reduction in entitlements, government procurement initiatives,
revenue initiatives and the availability of the general reserve.
The OSDC and the State Financial Control Board continue their respective
budgetary oversight activities.
In response to the City's fiscal crisis in 1975, the State took action
to assist the City in returning to fiscal stability. Among those actions, the
State established the Municipal Assistance Corporation for the City of New York
(the "MAC") to provide financing assistance to the City; the New York State
Financial Control Board (the "Control Board") to oversee the City's financial
affairs; the Office of the State Deputy Comptroller for the City of New York to
assist the Control Board in exercising its powers and responsibilities; and a
"Control Period" from 1975 to 1986 during which the City was subject to certain
statutorily-prescribed fiscal-monitoring arrangements. Although the Control
Board terminated the Control Period in 1986 when certain statutory conditions
were met,
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thus suspending certain Control Board powers, the Control Board, MAC and OSDC
continue to exercise various fiscal-monitoring functions over the City, and upon
the occurrence or "substantial likelihood and imminence" of the occurrence of
certain events, including, but not limited to a City operating budget deficit of
more than $100 million, the Control Board is required by law to reimpose a
Control Period. Currently, the City and its Covered Organizations (I.E., those
which receive or may receive monies from the City directly, indirectly or
contingently) operate under a four-year financial plan which the City prepares
annually and periodically updates.
The staffs of the OSDC and the Control Board issue periodic reports on
the City's financial plans, as modified, analyzing forecasts of revenues and
expenditures, cash flow, and debt service requirements, as well as compliance
with the financial plan, as modified, by the City and its Covered Organizations.
OSDC staff reports issued during the mid-1980's noted that the City's budgets
benefitted from a rapid rise in the City's economy, which boosted the City's
collection of property, business and income taxes. These resources were used to
increase the City's work force and the scope of discretionary and mandated City
services. Subsequent OSDC staff reports examined the 1987 stock market crash and
the 1989-92 recession, which affected the New York City region more severely
than the nation, and attributed an erosion of City revenues and increasing
strain on City expenditures to that recession. According to a recent OSDC staff
report, the City's economy is now slowly recovering, but the scope of that
recovery is uncertain and unlikely, in the foreseeable future, to match the
expansion of the mid-1980's. Also, staff reports of OSDC and the Control Board
have indicated that the City's recent balanced budgets have been accomplished,
in part, through the use of non-recurring resources, tax increases and
additional State assistance; that the City has not yet brought its long-term
expenditures in line with recurring revenues; and that the City is therefore
likely to continue to face future projected budget gaps requiring the City to
increase revenues and/or reduce expenditures. According to the most recent staff
reports of OSDC and the Control Board, during the four-year period covered by
the current financial plan, the City is relying on obtaining substantial
resources from initiatives needing approval and cooperation of its municipal
labor unions, Covered Organizations, and City Council, as well as the State and
federal governments, among others.
The City requires significant amounts of financing for seasonal and
capital purposes. The City's capital financing program projects long-term
financing requirements of approximately $16.1 billion for the City's fiscal
years 1997 through 2000. The major capital requirements include expenditures
for the City's water supply and sewage disposal systems, roads, bridges, mass
transit, schools, hospitals and housing.
OTHER LOCALITIES
In addition to the City, certain localities, including the City of
Yonkers, could have financial problems leading to requests for additional State
assistance during the State's 1995-96 fiscal year and thereafter.
Municipalities and school districts have engaged in substantial short-term and
long-term borrowings.
From time to time, federal expenditure reductions could reduce, or in
some cases, eliminate, federal funding of some local programs, and, accordingly,
might impose substantial increased expenditure requirements on affected
localities. If the State, the City or any of the public authorities were to
suffer serious financial difficulties jeopardizing their respective access to
the public credit markets, the marketability of notes and bonds issued by
localities within the State could be adversely affected. Localities also face
anticipated and potential problems resulting from certain pending litigation,
judicial decisions and long-range economic trends. Long-range potential problems
of declining urban population, increasing expenditures and other economic trends
could adversely affect localities and require increasing State assistance in the
future.
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AUTHORITIES
The fiscal stability of the State is related, in part, to the fiscal
stability of its public authorities. Public authorities are not subject to the
constitutional restrictions on the incurrence of debt which apply to the State
itself and may issue bonds and notes within the amounts, and as otherwise
restricted by, their legislative authorization. As of September 30, 1994, there
were 18 public authorities that had aggregate outstanding debt of $70.3 billion.
Some authorities also receive moneys from State appropriations to pay for the
operating costs of certain of their programs.
The Metropolitan Transit Authority (the "MTA"), which receives the
bulk of the appropriated moneys from the State, oversees the operation of the
City's bus and subway system by its affiliates, the New York City Transit
Authority and Manhattan and Bronx Surface Transit Operating Authority
(collectively, the "TA"). The MTA has depended and will continue to depend upon
federal, state and local government support to operate the transit system
because fare revenues are insufficient.
Over the past several years, the State has enacted several taxes
(including a surcharge on the profits of banks, insurance corporations and
general business corporations doing business in the 12-county region served by
the MTA and a special one-quarter of one percent regional sales and use tax)
that provide additional revenues for mass transit purposes, including assistance
to the MTA. In addition, a one-quarter of one percent regional mortgages
recording tax paid on certain mortgages creates an additional source of
recurring revenues for the MTA. Further, in 1993, the State dedicated a portion
of the State petroleum business tax to assist the MTA. For the 1995-96 State
fiscal year, total State assistance to the MTA is estimated at approximately
$1.1 billion.
In 1993, State legislation authorized the funding of a five-year
$9.56 billion MTA capital plan for the five-year period, 1992 through 1996 (the
"1992-96 Capital Program"). The MTA has received approval of the 1992-96 Capital
Program based on this legislation from the 1992-96 Capital Program Review Board,
as State law requires. This is the third five-year plan since the legislature
authorized procedures for the adoption, approval and amendment of a five-year
plan in 1981 for a capital program designed to upgrade the performance of the
MTA's transportation systems and to supplement, replace and rehabilitate
facilities and equipment. The MTA, the Triborough Bridge and Tunnel Authority,
and the TA are collectively authorized to issue an aggregate of $3.1 billion of
bonds (net of certain statutory exclusions) to finance a portion of the 1992-96
Capital Program. The 1992-96 Capital Program is expected to be financed in
significant part through dedication of State petroleum business taxes referred
to above.
There can be no assurance that all the necessary governmental actions
for the Capital Program will be taken, that funding sources currently identified
will not be decreased or eliminated, or that the 1992-96 Capital Program, or
parts thereof, will not be delayed or reduced. Furthermore, the power of the MTA
to issue certain bonds expected to be supported by the appropriation of State
petroleum business taxes is currently the subject of a court challenge. If the
Capital Program is delayed or reduced, ridership and fare revenues may decline,
which could, among other things, impair the MTA's ability to meet its operating
expenses without additional State assistance.
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APPENDIX C
INVESTING IN JAPAN AND ASIAN GROWTH MARKETS
JAPAN AND ITS SECURITIES MARKETS
The Japan Equity Portfolio will be subject to general economic and
political conditions in Japan. These include future political and economic
developments, the possible imposition of, or changes in, exchange controls or
other Japanese governmental laws or restrictions applicable to such investments,
diplomatic developments, political or social unrest and natural disasters.
Japan is largely dependent upon foreign economies for raw materials.
For instance, almost all of its oil is imported, the majority from the Middle
East. Oil prices therefore have a major impact on the domestic economy, as is
evidenced by the current account deficits triggered by the two oil crises of the
1970s. While Japan is working to reduce its dependence on foreign materials,
its lack of natural resources poses a significant obstacle to this effort.
GEOLOGICAL FACTORS. The islands of Japan lie in the western Pacific
Ocean, off the eastern coast of the continent of Asia. Japan has in the past
experienced earthquakes and tidal waves of varying degrees of severity, and the
risks of such phenomena, and damage resulting therefrom, continue to exist.
ASIAN GROWTH MARKETS
The Asia Growth Portfolio will be subject to certain risks and special
considerations, including those set forth below, which are not typically
associated with investing in securities of U.S. companies. In particular,
securities markets in Asian growth markets have been subject to substantial
price volatility, often without warning. This potential for sudden market
declines should be weighed and balanced against the potential for rapid growth
in Asian growth markets. Further, certain securities that the Portfolio may
purchase, and investment techniques in which the Portfolio may engage, involve
risks, including those set forth below.
INVESTMENT AND REPATRIATION RESTRICTIONS
Foreign investment in the securities markets of several Asian growth
markets is restricted or controlled to varying degrees. These restrictions may
limit investment in certain of the Asian growth markets and may increase
expenses of the Portfolio. For example, certain countries may require
governmental approval prior to investments by foreign persons in a particular
company or industry sector or limit investment by foreign persons to only a
specific class of securities of a company which may have less advantageous terms
(including price) than securities of the company available for purchase by
nationals. Certain countries may restrict or prohibit investment opportunities
in issuers or industries deemed important to national interests. In addition,
the repatriation of both investment income and capital from several of the Asian
growth markets is subject to restrictions such as the need for certain
government consents. Even where there is no outright restriction on
repatriation of capital, the mechanics of repatriation may affect certain
aspects of the operation of the Portfolio. For example, Taiwan imposes a
waiting period on the repatriation of investment capital for certain foreign
investors. Although these restrictions may in the future make it undesirable to
invest in the countries to which they apply, the Advisor does not believe that
any current repatriation restrictions would preclude the Portfolio from
effectively managing its assets.
If, because of restrictions on repatriation or conversion, the
Portfolio were unable to distribute substantially all of its net investment
income and long-term capital gains within applicable time periods, the Portfolio
could be subject to U.S. federal income and excise taxes which would not
otherwise be incurred and may cease to qualify for the favorable tax treatment
afforded to
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regulated investment companies under the Code, in which case it would become
subject to U.S. federal income tax on all of its income and gains.
Generally, there are restrictions on foreign investment in certain
Asian growth markets, although these restrictions vary in form and content. In
India, Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, the Philippines, Singapore and Thailand, the
Portfolio may be limited by government regulation or a company's charter to a
maximum percentage of equity ownership in any one company.
The Advisor has applied for approval from Indian governmental
authorities to invest in India on behalf of the Portfolio as a foreign
institutional investor (an "FII"). Under the guidelines that apply currently
for FIIs, no FII (or members of an affiliated group investing through one or
more FIIs) may hold more than 5% of the total issued capital of any Indian
company. In addition, all non-resident portfolio investments, including those
of all FIIs and their clients, may not exceed 24% of the issued share capital of
any Indian company; however, the 24% limit does not apply to investments by FIIs
through authorized offshore funds and offshore equity issues. Further, at least
70% of the total investments made by an FII pursuant to its FII authorization
must be in equity and equity related instruments such as convertible debentures
and tradeable warrants. Under a recently adopted policy, FIIs may purchase new
issues of equity securities directly from an Indian company, subject to certain
conditions. The procedures for such direct subscription by FIIs of such equity
securities are unclear and it is likely that a further limit, in addition to the
24% limit referred to above, may be imposed. The guidelines that apply for FIIs
are relatively recent and thus experience as to their application has been
limited. At present, FII authorizations are granted for five years and may be
renewed with the approval of India governmental authorities.
Korea generally prohibits foreign investment in Won-denominated debt
securities and Sri Lanka prohibits foreign investment in government debt
securities. In the Philippines, the Portfolio may generally invest in "B"
shares of Philippine issuers engaged in partly nationalized business activities,
which shares are made available to foreigners, and the market prices, liquidity
and rights of which may vary from shares owned by nationals. Similarly, in the
People's Republic of China (the "PRC"), the Portfolio may only invest in "B"
shares of securities traded on The Shanghai Securities Exchange and The Shenzhen
Stock Exchange, currently the two officially recognized securities exchanges in
the PRC. "B" shares traded on The Shanghai Securities Exchange are settled in
U.S. dollars and those traded on The Shenzhen Stock Exchange are generally
settled in Hong Kong dollars.
In Hong Kong, Korea, the Philippines, Taiwan and Thailand, there are
restrictions on the percentage of permitted foreign investment in shares of
certain companies, mainly those in highly regulated industries, although in
Taiwan there are limitations on foreign ownership of shares of any listed
company. In addition, Korea also prohibits foreign investment in specified
telecommunications companies and the Philippines prohibits foreign investment in
mass media companies and companies providing certain professional services.
MARKET CHARACTERISTICS
DIFFERENCES BETWEEN THE U.S. AND ASIAN SECURITIES MARKETS. The
securities markets of Asian growth markets have substantially less volume than
the New York Stock Exchange, and equity and debt securities of most companies in
Asian growth markets are less liquid and more volatile than equity and debt
securities of U.S. companies of comparable size. Some of the stock exchanges in
Asian growth markets, such as those in the PRC, are in the earliest stages of
their development. Many companies traded on securities markets in Asian growth
markets are smaller, newer and less seasoned than companies whose securities are
traded on securities markets in the United States. Investments in smaller
companies involve greater risk than is customarily associated with investing in
larger
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companies. Smaller companies may have limited product lines, markets or
financial or managerial resources and may be more susceptible to losses and
risks of bankruptcy. Additionally, market making and arbitrage activities are
generally less extensive in such markets, which may contribute to increased
volatility and reduced liquidity of such markets. Accordingly, each of these
markets may be subject to greater influence by adverse events generally
affecting the market, and by large investors trading significant blocks of
securities, than is usual in the United States. To the extent that any Asian
growth market experiences rapid increases in its money supply and investment in
equity securities for speculative purposes, the equity securities traded in any
such country may trade at price-earnings multiples higher than those of
comparable companies trading on securities markets in the United States, which
may not be sustainable. Securities markets in Asian growth markets may also be
subject to substantial governmental control, which may cause sudden or prolonged
disruptions in market prices unrelated to supply and demand considerations.
This may also be true of currency markets.
Brokerage commissions and other transaction costs on securities
exchanges in Asian growth markets are generally higher than in the United
States. In addition, security settlements may in some instance be subject to
delays and related administrative uncertainties, including risk of loss
associated with the credit of local brokers.
GOVERNMENT SUPERVISION OF ASIAN SECURITIES MARKETS; LEGAL SYSTEMS.
There is less government supervision and regulation of foreign securities
exchanges, listed companies and brokers in Asian growth markets than exists in
the United States. Less information, therefore, may be available to the Fund
than in respect of investments in the United States. Further, in certain Asian
growth markets, less information may be available to the Fund than to local
market participants. Brokers in Asian growth markets may not be as well
capitalized as those in the United States, so that they are more susceptible to
financial failure in times of market, political, or economic stress. In
addition, existing laws and regulations are often inconsistently applied. As
legal systems in some of the Asian growth markets develop, foreign investors may
be adversely affected by new laws and regulations, changes to existing laws and
regulations and preemption of local laws and regulations by national laws. In
circumstances where adequate laws exist, it may not be possible to obtain swift
and equitable enforcement of the law. Currently a mixture of legal and
structural restrictions affect the securities markets of certain Asian growth
markets.
Korea, in an attempt to avoid market manipulation, requires
institutional investors to deposit in their broker's account a percentage of the
amount to be invested prior to execution of a purchase order. That deposit
requirement will expose the Fund to the broker's credit risk. These examples
demonstrate that legal and structural developments can be expected to affect the
Portfolio, potentially affecting liquidity of positions held by the Portfolio,
in unexpected and significant ways from time to time.
FINANCIAL INFORMATION AND STANDARDS. Issuers in Asian growth markets
generally are subject to accounting, auditing and financial standards and
requirements that differ, in some cases significantly, from those applicable to
U.S. issuers. In particular, the assets and profits appearing on the financial
statements of an Asian growth market issuer may not reflect its financial
position or results of operations in accordance with U.S. generally accepted
accounting principles. In addition, for an issuer that keeps accounting records
in local currency, inflation accounting rules may require, for both tax and
accounting purposes, that certain assets and liabilities be restated on the
issuer's balance sheet in order to express items in terms of currency of
constant purchasing power. Inflation accounting may indirectly generate losses
or profits. Consequently, financial data may be materially affected by
restatements for inflation and may not accurately reflect the real condition of
those issuers and securities markets. Moreover, substantially less information
may be publicly
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available about issuers in Asian growth markets than is available about U.S.
issuers.
SOCIAL, POLITICAL AND ECONOMIC FACTORS
Asian growth markets may be subject to a greater degree of social,
political and economic instability than is the case in the United States and
Western European countries. Such instability may result from, among other
things, the following: (i) authoritarian governments or military involvement in
political and economic decision-making, and changes in government through
extra-constitutional means; (ii) popular unrest associated with demand for
improved political, economic and social conditions; (iii) internal insurgencies,
(iv) war or hostile relations with neighboring countries; and (v) ethnic,
religious and racial disaffection. Such social, political and economic
instability could significantly disrupt the principal financial markets in which
the Portfolio invests and adversely affect the value of the Portfolio's assets.
In addition, there may be the possibility of asset expropriations or future
confiscatory levels of taxation affecting the Portfolio.
Few Asian growth markets have western-style or fully democratic
governments. Some governments in the region are authoritarian and influenced by
security forces. During the course of the last 25 years, governments in the
region have been installed or removed as a result of military coups, while
others have periodically demonstrated repressive police state characteristics.
Disparities of wealth, among other factors, have also led to social unrest in
some Asian growth markets, accompanied, in certain cases, by violence and labor
unrest. Ethnic, religious and racial disaffection, as evidenced in India,
Pakistan and Sri Lanka, have created social, economic and political problems.
Several Asian growth markets have or in the past have had hostile
relationships with neighboring nations or have experienced internal insurgency.
Thailand has experienced border conflicts with Laos and Cambodia, and India is
engaged in border disputes with several of its neighbors, including the PRC and
Pakistan. Tension between the Tamil and Sinhalese communities in Sri Lanka has
resulted in periodic outbreaks of violence. An uneasy truce exists between
North Korea and South Korea, and the recurrence of hostilities remains possible.
Reunification of North Korea and South Korea could have a detrimental effect on
the economy of South Korea. Also, the PRC continues to claim sovereignty over
Taiwan. The PRC is acknowledged to possess nuclear weapons capability; North
Korea is alleged to possess or be in the process of developing such a
capability.
The economies of most Asian growth markets are heavily dependent upon
international trade and are accordingly affected by protective barriers and the
economic conditions of their trading partners, principally, the United States,
Japan, the PRC and the European Community. The enactment by the United States
or other principal trading partners of protectionist trade legislation,
reduction of foreign investment in the local economies and general declines in
the international securities markets could have a significant adverse effect
upon the securities markets of the Asian growth markets. In addition, the
economies of some Asian growth markets, Indonesia and Malaysia, for example, are
vulnerable to weakness in world prices for their commodity exports, including
crude oil.
Governments in certain Asian growth markets participate to a
significant degree, through ownership interest or regulation, in their
respective economies. Action by these governments could have a significant
adverse effect on market prices of securities and payment of dividends.
The PRC has only recently permitted private economic activities and
the PRC government has exercised and continues to exercise substantial control
over virtually every sector of the PRC economy through regulation and state
ownership. Continued economic growth and development in the PRC, as well as
opportunities for foreign investment, and prospects of private sector
enterprises, in the PRC,
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will depend in many respects on the implementation of the PRC's current program
of economic reform, which cannot be assured.
In Hong Kong, British proposals to extend limited democracy have
caused a political rift with the PRC, which is scheduled to assume sovereignty
over the colony in 1997. Although the PRC has committed by treaty to preserve
the economic and social freedoms enjoyed in Hong Kong for 50 years after
regaining control of Hong Kong, the continuation of the current form of the
economic system in Hong Kong after the reversion will depend on the actions of
the government of the PRC. In addition, such reversion has increased
sensitivity in Hong Kong to political developments and statements by public
figures in the PRC. Business confidence in Hong Kong, therefore, can be
significantly affected by such developments and statements, which in turn can
affect markets and business performance.
With respect to investments in Taiwan, it should be noted that Taiwan
lacks formal diplomatic relations with many nations, although it conducts trade
and financial relations with most major economic powers. Both the government of
the PRC and the government of the Republic of China in Taiwan claim sovereignty
over all of China. Although relations between Taiwan and the PRC are currently
peaceful, renewed frictions or hostility could interrupt operations of Taiwanese
companies in which the Portfolio invests and create uncertainty that could
adversely affect the value and marketability of its Taiwan investments.
With regard to India, agriculture occupies a more prominent position
in the Indian economy than in the United States, and the Indian economy
therefore is more susceptible to adverse changes in weather. The government of
India has exercised and continues to exercise significant influence over many
aspects of the economy, and the number of public sector enterprises in India is
substantial. Accordingly government actions in the future could have a
significant effect on the Indian economy which could affect private sector
companies, market conditions and prices and yields of securities held by the
Portfolio. Religious and ethnic unrest persists in India. The long standing
grievances between the Hindu and Muslim populations resulted in communal
violence during 1993 in the aftermath of the destruction of a mosque in Ayodhya
by radical elements of the Hindu population. The Indian government is also
confronted by separatist movements in several states and the long standing
border dispute with Pakistan over the State of Jammu and Kashmir, a majority of
whose population is Muslim, remains unsolved. In addition, Indian stock
exchanges have in the past been subject to repeated closure including for ten
days in December 1993 due to a broker's strike, and there can be no assurance
that this will not recur.
THINLY TRADED MARKETS
Compared to securities traded in the United States, all securities of
Asian growth market issuers may generally be considered to be thinly traded.
Even relatively widely held securities in such countries may not be able to
absorb trades of a size customarily transacted by institutional investors,
without price disruptions. Accordingly, the Portfolio's ability to reposition
itself will be more constrained than would be the case for a typical equity
mutual fund.
SETTLEMENT PROCEDURES AND DELAYS
Settlement procedures in Asian growth markets are less developed and
reliable than those in the United States and in other developed markets, and the
Portfolio may experience settlement delays or other material difficulties. This
problem is particularly severe in India where settlement is through physical
delivery and, where currently, a severe shortage of vault capacity exists among
custodial banks, although efforts are being undertaken to alleviate the
shortage. In addition, significant delays are common in registering transfers
of securities, and the Portfolio may be unable to sell such securities until the
registration process is completed and may experience delays in receipt of
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dividends and other entitlement. The recent and anticipated inflow of funds
into the Indian securities market has placed added strains on the settlement
system and transfer process. In addition, the Portfolio may be subject to
significant limitations in the future on the volume of trading during any
particular period, imposed by its sub-custodian in India or otherwise as a
result of such physical or other operational constraints.
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