<PAGE> 1
General Information, Purchases and
Redemptions
-------------------------------------
24-Hour Price and Balance Information
-------------------------------------
Nationwide 800-637-1700 M
www.reservefunds.com
[RESERVE FUNDS LOGO]
Founders of
"America's First
Money Fund"
RESERVE PRIVATE EQUITY SERIES
PROSPECTUS
RESERVE PRIVATE EQUITY SERIES ("RPES" or "Trust") is a no-load, open-end
mutual fund offering shares in seven Funds: Reserve Blue Chip Growth Fund,
Reserve Convertible Securities Fund, Reserve Informed Investors Growth Fund,
Reserve International Equity Fund, Reserve Large-Cap Growth Fund (formerly
Reserve Large-Cap Value Fund), Reserve Mid-Cap Equity Fund (formerly Reserve
Mid-Cap Growth Fund) and Reserve Small-Cap Growth Fund (each a "Fund", together
the "Funds"). This Prospectus, dated September 22, 1998, sets forth concisely
the information which a prospective investor should know about each Fund before
investing. A Statement of Additional Information ("SAI"), dated September 22,
1998, has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") and is
incorporated herein by reference. A copy of the SAI may be obtained without
charge by writing or calling the Trust at the above telephone number. The SEC
maintains a web site (http://www.sec.gov) that contains the Prospectus, SAI,
material incorporated by reference, and other information regarding the Funds
filed electronically with the SEC.
Each Fund offers two classes of shares which may be purchased at a price
equal to their net asset value -- the "Class R shares" (formerly known as Class
A shares) and the "Class I shares". See "How to Buy Shares" on page 16.
SHARES OF THE FUNDS ARE NOT DEPOSITS OR OBLIGATIONS OF, OR GUARANTEED OR
ENDORSED BY, ANY BANK AND ARE NOT FEDERALLY INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT
INSURANCE CORPORATION, THE FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD OR ANY OTHER AGENCY.
THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES AND
EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION NOR HAS THE SECURITIES
AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION OR ANY STATE SECURITIES COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE
ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A
CRIMINAL OFFENSE.
------------------
Prospectus dated September 22, 1998.
Investors are advised to read this Prospectus carefully and to retain it for
future reference.
<PAGE> 2
SHAREHOLDER EXPENSES
The following tables illustrate all expenses and fees that a shareholder of
each Fund will incur directly or indirectly for the fiscal year ended May 31,
1998.
SHAREHOLDER TRANSACTION EXPENSES
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS R CLASS I
------- -------
<S> <C> <C>
Sales Load Imposed on Purchases............................. None None
Sales Load Imposed on Reinvested Dividends.................. None None
Redemption Fees*............................................ None None
Exchange Fees............................................... None None
</TABLE>
- ---------------
* A $2 fee will be charged for Class R redemption checks issued by the
Funds of less than $100 and $100 for Class I redemption checks of less
than $100,000. Class R wire redemptions of less than $10,000 will be
charged a $10 fee and Class I wire redemptions of less than $100,000
will be charged a $100 fee.
ANNUAL FUND OPERATING EXPENSES
(as a percentage of average net assets)
LISTED BELOW ARE THE ANNUAL EXPENSES PAID BY EACH CLASS OF SHARES FOR EACH FUND
REGARDLESS OF THE AMOUNT OF YOUR INVESTMENT.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS R SHARES (FORMERLY CLASS A) CLASS I SHARES
----------------------------------- ------------------------------
TOTAL TOTAL
MANAGEMENT 12B-1 OPERATING MANAGEMENT 12B-1 OPERATING
FEE+ FEE* EXPENSES FEE+ FEE EXPENSES
---------- ----- --------- ---------- ----- ---------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Reserve Blue Chip Growth............................. 1.20% 0.25% 1.45% 0.90% 0.00% 0.90%
Reserve Convertible Securities....................... 1.30% 0.25% 1.55%** 1.00% 0.00% 1.00%
Reserve Informed Investors Growth.................... 1.30% 0.25% 1.55% 1.00% 0.00% 1.00%
Reserve International Equity......................... 1.55% 0.25% 1.80% 1.25% 0.00% 1.25%
Reserve Large-Cap Growth............................. 1.20% 0.25% 1.45% 0.90% 0.00% 0.90%
Reserve Mid-Cap Equity............................... 1.30% 0.25% 1.55% 1.00% 0.00% 1.00%
Reserve Small-Cap Growth............................. 1.30% 0.25% 1.55% 1.00% 0.00% 1.00%
</TABLE>
- ---------------
+ Most mutual funds display the management fee and ordinary operating expenses
as separate line items. The Funds are charged a Management Fee (see
"Management" on page 14) which includes all management fees and ordinary
operating expenses.
* Due to these distribution expenses, long-term shareholders may pay more than
the economic equivalent of the maximum front-end sales charge permitted by
the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
** During the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998, Reserve Management Company, Inc.,
the Funds' investment adviser, and RESRV Partners, Inc., the Funds'
distributor, voluntarily reimbursed some of the expenses attributable to the
Class R shares of the Reserve Convertible Securities Fund. With the
reimbursement, the Management Fee, 12b-1 Fee and Total Operating Expenses
attributable to the Class R shares of the Fund for the fiscal year ended May
31, 1998 amounted to 0.75%, 0.08% and 0.83%, respectively. As of the date of
this Prospectus, the reimbursements have been discontinued.
The purpose of this table is to assist the shareholders of each Fund in
understanding the costs and expenses that they will bear directly or indirectly.
2
<PAGE> 3
The following examples illustrate the expenses that a shareholder would pay
on a $1,000 investment over various time periods assuming: (1) a 5% annual rate
of return and (2) redemption at the end of each time period.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
CLASS R SHARES
(FORMERLY CLASS A) CLASS I SHARES
------------------------------- -------------------------------
1 3 5 10 1 3 5 10
YEAR YEARS YEARS YEARS YEAR YEARS YEARS YEARS
---- ----- ----- ----- ---- ----- ----- -----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Reserve Blue Chip Growth..................... $15 $46 $79 $174 $ 9 $29 $50 $111
Reserve Convertible Securities............... $16 $49 $84 $185 $10 $32 $55 $122
Reserve Small-Cap Growth..................... $16 $49 $84 $185 $10 $32 $55 $122
Reserve Informed Investors Growth............ $18 $57 $97 $212 $13 $40 $69 $151
Reserve International Equity................. $15 $46 $79 $174 $ 9 $29 $50 $111
Reserve Large-Cap Growth..................... $16 $49 $84 $185 $10 $32 $55 $122
Reserve Mid-Cap Equity....................... $16 $49 $84 $185 $10 $32 $55 $122
</TABLE>
THESE EXAMPLES SHOULD NOT BE CONSIDERED A REPRESENTATION OF PAST OR FUTURE
EXPENSES OR PERFORMANCE. ACTUAL EXPENSES MAY BE GREATER OR LESS THAN THOSE
SHOWN.
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
The following information applies to a share of the Reserve Private Equity
Series -- Reserve Blue Chip Growth Fund, Convertible Securities Fund, Reserve
Informed Investors Growth Fund, Reserve International Equity Fund, Reserve
Large-Cap Growth Fund (formerly Large-Cap Value Fund), Reserve Mid-Cap Equity
Fund (formerly Mid-Cap Growth Fund) and Reserve Small-Cap Growth Fund
outstanding throughout each period. Each Fund, prior to October 1, 1997, had two
classes of shares, Class A and Class D. Effective October 1, 1997, the shares of
Class D were merged into Class A. Effective September 22, 1998, the Class A
shares were redesignated as Class R shares. The Trust did not begin offering
Class I shares until October 1, 1998. As of that date, no other portfolios or
classes of shares were outstanding. This information should be read in
conjunction with the financial statements and related notes incorporated by
reference in the SAI for the Funds. Such information has been audited by
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, whose report thereon appears in the Trust's Annual
Report to Shareholders which is incorporated by reference in the SAI. Further
information concerning investment performance is contained in the Trust's Annual
Report, which is available without charge.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RESERVE BLUE CHIP GROWTH FUND CLASS R (FORMERLY CLASS A)
----------------------------- ----------------------------------------------
OCTOBER 28, 1994
YEAR ENDED MAY 31, (COMMENCEMENT OF
-------------------------- OPERATIONS) TO
1998 1997 1996 MAY 31, 1995
------ ------ ------ ----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value, beginning of period........................ $15.46 $14.91 $12.03 $10.00
------ ------ ------ ------
Income from investment operations
Net investment income (loss)............................ -- (.17) (.10) (.03)
Net realized and unrealized gain........................ 2.82 .91 3.62 2.06
------ ------ ------ ------
Total from investment operations............................ 2.82 .74 3.52 2.03
Less distribution from net realized income and gain......... (3.19) (.19) (.64) --
------ ------ ------ ------
Net asset value, end of period.............................. $15.09 $15.46 $14.91 $12.03
====== ====== ====== ======
Total Return................................................ 19.70% 5.12% 30.10% 20.30%(2)
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets in thousands, end of period...................... $8,532 $5,428 $5,130 $1,993
Ratio of expenses to average net assets..................... 1.75% 1.75% 1.75% 1.73%(1)
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net
assets.................................................... (.87)% (1.13)% (.94)% (.70)%(1)
Portfolio turnover rate..................................... 113% 109% 72% 68%
</TABLE>
3
<PAGE> 4
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS -- (CONTINUED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RESERVE CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES FUND CLASS R (FORMERLY CLASS A)
----------------------------------- ---------------------------------
SEPTEMBER 3, 1996
(COMMENCEMENT OF
YEAR ENDED OPERATIONS) TO
MAY 31, 1998 MAY 31, 1997
------------ -----------------
<S> <C> <C>
Net asset value, beginning of period........................ $ 11.08 $ 10.00
------- -------
Income from investment operations
Net investment income................................... .03 .34
Net realized and unrealized gain........................ .69 .99
------- -------
Total from investment operations............................ .72 1.33
Less distribution from net realized income and gain......... (1.27) (.25)
------- -------
Net asset value, end of period.............................. $ 10.53 $ 11.08
======= =======
Total Return................................................ 6.44% 13.53%(2)
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets in thousands, end of period...................... $24,659 $20,553
Ratio of expenses to average net assets(3).................. 1.75% 2.36%(1)
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets(3)..... 3.77% 3.67%(1)
Portfolio turnover rate..................................... 168% 113%
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RESERVE INFORMED INVESTORS GROWTH FUND CLASS R (FORMERLY CLASS A)
- -------------------------------------- -----------------------------------------------
DECEMBER 28, 1994
YEAR ENDED MAY 31, (COMMENCEMENT
-------------------------- OF OPERATIONS) TO
1998 1997 1996 MAY 31, 1995
------ ------ ------ -----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value, beginning of period........................ $11.48 $14.36 $11.99 $10.00
------ ------ ------ ------
Income from investment operations
Net investment loss..................................... (.20) (.07) (.33) (.07)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)................. 2.08 (1.66) 3.87 2.06
------ ------ ------ ------
Total from investment operations............................ 1.88 (1.73) 3.54 1.99
Less distribution from net realized gain.................... (2.90) (1.15) (1.17) --
------ ------ ------ ------
Net asset value, end of period.............................. $10.46 $11.48 $14.36 $11.99
====== ====== ====== ======
Total Return................................................ 17.88% (11.35)% 29.75% 19.90%(2)
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets in thousands, end of period...................... $4,334 $5,477 $6,393 $6,837
Ratio of expenses to average net assets..................... 1.75% 1.75% 1.75% 1.75%(1)
Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets.......... (.91)% (.57)% (1.57)% (1.62)%(1)
Portfolio turnover rate..................................... 410% 255% 132% 59%
</TABLE>
4
<PAGE> 5
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS -- (CONTINUED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RESERVE INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND CLASS R (FORMERLY CLASS A)
- --------------------------------- --------------------------------------
JULY 13, 1995
YEAR ENDED MAY 31, (COMMENCEMENT OF
------------------ OPERATIONS) TO
1998 1997 MAY 31, 1996
------- ------- ----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value, beginning of period........................ $ 12.59 $ 11.26 $10.00
------- ------- ------
Income from investment operations
Net investment loss..................................... (.04) (.07) (.05)
Net realized and unrealized gain........................ .67 1.40 1.31
------- ------- ------
Total from investment operations............................ .63 1.33 1.26
------- ------- ------
Net asset value, end of period.............................. $ 13.22 $ 12.59 $11.26
======= ======= ======
Total Return................................................ 5.00% 11.81% 12.60%(2)
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets in thousands, end of period...................... $12,851 $12,099 $3,578
Ratio of expenses to average net assets..................... 2.00% 2.00% 1.99%(1)
Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets.......... (.39)% (.82)% (.91)%(1)
Portfolio turnover rate..................................... 114% 52% 70%
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RESERVE LARGE-CAP GROWTH FUND* CLASS R (FORMERLY CLASS A)
- ------------------------------ --------------------------------------
JANUARY 2, 1996
YEAR ENDED MAY 31, (COMMENCEMENT OF
------------------ OPERATIONS) TO
1998 1997 MAY 31, 1996
------- ------- ----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value, beginning of period........................ $14.61 $10.95 $10.00
------ ------ ------
Income from investment operations
Net investment loss..................................... (.03) (.03) (.01)
Net realized and unrealized gains....................... 3.89 3.69 .96
------ ------ ------
Total from investment operations............................ 3.86 3.66 .95
Less distribution from net realized gain.................... (.31) -- --
------ ------ ------
Net asset value, end of period.............................. $18.16 $14.61 $10.95
====== ====== ======
Total Return................................................ 26.71% 33.42% 9.50%(2)
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets in thousands, end of period...................... $6,786 $3,054 $1,231
Ratio of expenses to average net assets..................... 1.75% 1.75% 1.75%(1)
Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets.......... (.36)% (.32)% (.32)%(1)
Portfolio turnover rate..................................... .25% 18% 0%
</TABLE>
5
<PAGE> 6
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS -- (CONTINUED)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RESERVE MID-CAP EQUITY FUND** CLASS R (FORMERLY CLASS A)
- ----------------------------- --------------------------------------
MARCH 13, 1996
YEAR ENDED MAY 31, (COMMENCEMENT OF
------------------ OPERATIONS) TO
1998 1997 MAY 31, 1996
------- ------- ----------------
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value, beginning of period........................ $13.20 $12.29 $10.94
------ ------ ------
Income from investment operations
Net investment loss..................................... (.26) (.11) (.01)
Net realized and unrealized gain........................ 1.50 1.02 1.36
------ ------ ------
Total from investment operations............................ 1.24 .91 1.35
Less distribution from net realized gain.................... (1.46) -- --
------ ------ ------
Net asset value, end of period.............................. $12.98 $13.20 $12.29
====== ====== ======
Total Return................................................ 10.31% 7.40% 12.34%(2)
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets in thousands, end of period...................... $3,381 $2,174 $ 131
Ratio of expenses to average net assets..................... 1.75% 1.75% 1.74%(1)
Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets.......... (1.21)% (1.31)% (.97)%(1)
Portfolio turnover rate..................................... 73% 102% 85%
</TABLE>
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
RESERVE SMALL-CAP GROWTH FUND CLASS R (FORMERLY CLASS A)
- ----------------------------- -----------------------------------------------
NOVEMBER 14, 1994
YEAR ENDED MAY 31, (COMMENCEMENT
-------------------------- OF OPERATIONS) TO
1998 1997 1996 MAY 31, 1995
------ ------ ------ ------------------
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Net asset value, beginning of period........................ $15.52 $19.56 $12.21 $10.00
------ ------ ------ ------
Income from investment operations...........................
Net investment loss..................................... (.39) (.28) (.17) (.09)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)................. 1.53 (3.76) 8.05 2.30
------ ------ ------ ------
Total from investment operations............................ 1.14 (4.04) 7.88 2.21
Less distribution from net realized gain.................... -- -- (.53) --
------ ------ ------ ------
Net asset value, end of period.............................. $16.66 $15.52 $19.56 $12.21
====== ====== ====== ======
Total Return................................................ 7.35% (20.65)% 65.55% 22.10%(2)
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA
Net assets in thousands, end of period...................... $5,541 $5,789 $6,657 $1,241
Ratio of expenses to average net assets..................... 1.75% 1.75% 1.75% 1.75%(1)
Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets.......... (1.64)% (1.69)% (1.70)% (1.62)%(1)
Portfolio turnover rate..................................... 46% 28% 38% 43%
</TABLE>
- ---------------
(1) Annualized.
(2) Total return is not annualized, and does not reflect impact of sales load.
(3) For the Reserve Convertible Securities Fund, the ratios of expenses to
average net assets, net of waiver, for the period September 3, 1996
(commencement of operations) to May 31, 1997 and the fiscal year ended May
31, 1998 were 0.52% and 0.83%, respectively, and the ratios of net
investment loss to average net assets, net of waiver, for the same periods
were 5.52% and 4.69%, respectively.
* Formerly Reserve Large-Cap Value Fund.
** Formerly Reserve Mid-Cap Growth Fund.
6
<PAGE> 7
INVESTMENT OBJECTIVES AND POLICIES
The investment objectives of the Funds are not fundamental and may be
changed without the approval of shareholders. Each of the Funds is classified as
a non-diversified mutual fund.
RESERVE BLUE CHIP GROWTH FUND. The Reserve Blue Chip Growth Fund's objective is
to seek capital appreciation through investment in a portfolio of U.S. common
stocks believed to offer favorable possibilities of capital appreciation. Any
production of income is secondary to this objective. There can be no assurance
that the Fund will achieve its investment objective.
Generally, the Fund will seek to invest in U.S. equities with investment
characteristics such as earnings growth, financial strength and projected
positive cash flow. These equity securities are usually traded as shares in the
U.S. but sometimes they may be represented by American Depository Receipts
("ADRs"). The Fund will invest at least 65% of its total assets in securities of
"blue chip" companies that have demonstrated long-term earnings growth,
financial stability and attractive valuation, unless the Fund has adopted a
temporary defensive position.
RESERVE CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES FUND. The Reserve Convertible Securities Fund's
investment objective is to seek returns which are derived from capital
appreciation and current income. There can be no assurance that the Fund will
achieve its investment objective.
Generally, the Fund will pursue its objective by investing primarily in
securities which are convertible into, or which derive their returns from, price
changes in the common stock of an underlying corporate issuer. These include,
but are not limited to, convertible debentures, convertible preferred stocks,
and "derivative" convertible securities such as "DECS" Dividend Enhanced
Convertible Stock), "ACES" (Automatically Convertible Equity Securities),
"PRIDES" (Preferred Redeemable Increased Dividend Equity Securities) and "PERCS"
(Preferred Equity Redemption Convertible Stock). The Fund will invest at least
65% of its total assets in convertible securities, unless the Fund has adopted a
temporary defensive position.
As a means of protecting principal value, the Fund invests in securities
possessing certain defensive characteristics, such as those whose underlying
common stocks are undervalued in terms of earnings relative to price, earnings
growth rate relative to price/earnings multiple, and price relative to book
value. Other defensive characteristics sought are high current yields,
short-to-intermediate maturities, and low price volatility relative to price
volatility of the underlying common shares.
The Fund will invest in both rated and unrated securities of similar quality
when it is believed that their yields or growth potential adequately compensate
it for the risk assumed. The Fund will not invest in securities whose
creditworthiness the Adviser and/or the Sub-Adviser perceive to be
deteriorating.
The Fund will also invest in "busted" convertible debt securities. These
securities trade like straight corporate debt having similar coupons, ratings,
and maturities, and to which the market accords little value for their
convertibility features.
RESERVE INFORMED INVESTORS GROWTH FUND. The Reserve Informed Investors Growth
Fund's investment objective is to seek growth through investment in a portfolio
of U.S. securities which are seasoned, well-managed, financially sound companies
with demonstrated superior earnings growth, accelerating cash flow and profit
margins and high or sharply rising return on equity. Priority companies are
those where management and/or large outside investors are buyers or owners of
the stock, or where the company itself is repurchasing its own shares on the
open market. These are the "Informed Investors." Any production of income is
secondary to this objective. There can be no assurance that the Fund will
achieve its investment objective.
Common sense suggests that the "Informed Investors" of the corporate world
are far closer to the day-to-day activities of the companies they own or manage
and often in a much more informed position to gauge the long-term effect certain
publicly disclosed information or developments may have on the future price of
their company's stock. Basic to the "Informed Investors" strategy is the belief
that it is far more prudent to invest in intrinsically undervalued stocks which
some of the nation's more knowledgeable investors own or are buying with their
own money, rather than to chase fad or glamour stocks masquerading as
disciplines.
The Fund emphasizes investment in small and medium-sized companies whose
outstanding shares have an aggregate market value of $200 million to $4 billion.
At least 65% of the value of the Fund's total assets will be invested in such
companies, unless the Fund has adopted a temporary defensive position. It is
expected that under normal market conditions the Fund will be substantially
fully invested in equity securities believed to have a potential for capital
growth which will result in greater-than-average share price fluctuations and
greater market risk than is involved in other securities.
RESERVE INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND. The Reserve International Equity Fund's
objective is to seek capital appreciation through investment in a portfolio of
equity securities of companies resident in countries experiencing rapid economic
growth. Any production of income is secondary to this objective. There can be no
assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective.
The Fund seeks to achieve its objective by following a structured and
disciplined investment policy of making investments in ADRs and common stocks of
non-U.S. companies. On occasion, warrants, convertible securities and
fixed-income instruments will also be used. Generally, the Fund will seek to
invest in foreign equity securities listed on foreign exchanges and issued by
companies with investment characteristics, such as earnings growth, financial
strength, and projected positive cash flow as significant factors in
7
<PAGE> 8
assessing value. When the Sub-Adviser deems it advisable because of unusual
economic, political or market conditions, the Fund may reduce or eliminate
positions in one country and switch them to other countries.
The Fund focuses on quality companies with high visibility and growth
characteristics in sales and earnings. Companies frequently are dominant within
their industry niche and many have a near monopoly position within their
country. Every stock in the Fund's portfolio has been carefully selected through
research and often through direct management contact.
The Fund favors companies where management has a significant ownership
stake. The companies that are usually avoided are those that depend heavily on
commodity price levels for their future earnings growth. The Fund's portfolio is
structured by combining a top-down quantitative country weighting process, which
looks at macroeconomics factors nationally and internationally, with a bottom-
up individual company selection procedure, which focuses on microeconomic
factors in a particular company. To attempt to control risk the Fund spreads its
assets among 80 to 110 companies in 15 to 23 foreign markets with an initial
position in any single issue between 1% and 2% of assets. Since investments are
in companies that have strong earnings growth, the Fund intends to remain as
fully invested as is prudently possible. Therefore, portfolio investments in
cash equivalents usually will not exceed 10% of assets. Stocks are selected for
their long-term investment attractiveness. A three-to-five-year time horizon
will be utilized for a holding period. In all circumstances, the Fund will
invest at least 65% of its total assets in equity securities of issuers
associated with at least three different countries, excluding the U.S., unless
the Fund has taken a temporary defensive position. The Fund will restrict
investment in the combination of warrants and stock options to 5% of total
assets at the time of purchase. Short-term profits are not pursued as an
objective, and there is no trading-type activity in stocks.
Summary of Investment Philosophy
The primary goal is to obtain consistent portfolio performance by investing
in quality companies with superior growth records in sales and earnings. The
Sub-Adviser's experience has shown that the best way to make money in common
stocks is to buy growth companies at attractive prices and to maintain those
positions for as long as the growth momentum continues and their valuations do
not reach extremes after an advance. Portfolios of foreign investments are
affected by different economic trends. By participating in a large variety of
investment opportunities, the probability of investment success increases, and
international diversification reduces the effect that events in any one country
will have on the portfolios. Portfolios of foreign securities are often effected
by different economic trends than those which effect U.S. securities, which is a
basic reason to diversify the traditional U.S.-based portfolio with investments
in foreign securities.
Investment Process
Country Allocation. Nine variables have been identified by the Sub-Adviser
which are deemed to be key in determining the future direction of stock markets.
The five macroeconomic factors are: Real Gross Domestic Product growth rate and
outlook; current inflation rate and its trend; relative interest rates and their
trend; outlook for the currency; and current account/trade balance levels. The
four stock market technical variables are: intermediate and long-term trends of
the stock prices versus the outlook for corporate profit; relative
price/earnings ratios and dividend yields; country pension fund regulations that
can affect the supply/demand factors for equities; and political stability and
government efforts to promote equity investments.
Stock Selection. After the top-down country allocation is in place, bottom-up
stock selection becomes the dominant activity. The focus is on quality
individual stock selection of companies with high visibility and growth in sales
and earnings. In emerging economies with less developed capital markets, a
strong balance sheet is essential. Stocks are not selected for
industry-balancing purposes. Highly cyclical stocks and recovery situations are
rarely used as is the case with companies that are primarily market-share and
sales driven, regardless of profitability and shareholder benefit.
Selling Disciplines. A stock is sold when the fundamental factors (excessive
price/exchange ratio, slowed growth, excessive debt, etc.) have changed to such
an extent that the company no longer qualifies or when industry conditions or
governmental regulations have changed so that they negatively impact the
company's future. On rare occasions, a stock is sold if a significantly more
attractive opportunity develops in that country.
RESERVE LARGE-CAP GROWTH FUND. The Reserve Large-Cap Growth Fund (formerly
Reserve Large-Cap Value Fund)'s investment objective is to seek long-term
capital appreciation through investment in a portfolio of large, high-quality
U.S. companies. Any production of income is secondary to this objective. There
can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective.
The Fund seeks to achieve its objective by primarily investing in
attractively valued and undervalued equity securities believed to offer
favorable possibilities of capital appreciation. Generally, the Fund will seek
to invest in equity securities issued by companies with investment
characteristics such as high return on shareholder's equity, strong company
management that enhances shareholder value, good cash flow generation and
favorable profit trends. Fundamentally, investment candidates are understandable
businesses that can generate consistent earnings growth where the company is
believed to be undervalued as a whole. Candidates are believed to be in a growth
phase or are entering a growth phase in their marketplace and have pricing
flexibility, the potential to increase volume of unit
8
<PAGE> 9
sales, and control over production and distribution. These companies also focus
on their core business, have a dominant brand name or a valuable franchise,
financial fundamentals are trending upward, and management that is dedicated to
enhancing shareholder value. The Fund will invest at least 65% of its total
assets in equity securities and at least 65% of total assets in the securities
of companies whose aggregate market value is $5 billion or more, i.e., "large
cap," unless the Fund has adopted a temporary defensive position. Investors
seeking the opportunity for above-average, long-term growth with below-average
overall risk (defined as loss of capital) and nominal current income may wish to
consider this Fund.
It is the Fund's view that high-quality, large companies can generate
consistent growth over time that is above the growth rate of the overall
economy. The Fund may also invest in companies presenting special situations
when it is believed that the shares offer a strong potential for capital
appreciation due to the market underestimating earnings potential, changes in
management or other similar opportunities.
RESERVE MID-CAP EQUITY FUND. The Reserve Mid-Cap Equity Fund (formerly Reserve
Mid-Cap Growth Fund)'s investment objective is to seek capital appreciation
through investment in a portfolio of medium-size companies. It is the
Sub-Adviser's view that mid-size companies in the U.S. are generally expected to
show growth over time that is above the growth rate of the overall U.S. economy
and that of larger companies. The Fund will invest at least 65% of its total
assets in equity securities of companies considered "mid-cap" or medium-size
companies, unless the Fund has adopted a temporary defensive position. The Fund
does not choose investment for dividend or interest income, nor does it try to
"time the market". The Fund will not employ any hedging strategies, and intends
to stay fully invested. Any production of income is secondary. There can be no
assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective.
A varied portfolio of stocks will generally be selected based on at least
one of the following criteria: companies selling at a discount to private market
value; undiscovered, underfollowed, or misunderstood companies with good or
improving earnings growth; low price/cash flow stocks with a visible catalyst
for price appreciation, growth rates greater than and price/cash flow less than
the S&P 400 mid-cap index. Additional considerations will be: management
incentives to increase shareholder value; management ownership of the stock;
margin levels and growth, return on capital invested, and strength of the
balance sheet.
The Funds may also invest in companies presenting special situations when it
is believed that the shares offer a strong potential for capital appreciation
due to the market underestimating earnings potential, changes in management or
other similar opportunities.
A result of the Fund's stock selection criteria is likely to be that the
median market capitalization for its portfolio companies will be about $2
billion and such companies would be considered "mid-cap" or medium-size
companies. The Fund will not routinely invest in any company with a market
capitalization of less than $500 million or more than $5 billion. The "mid-cap"
nature of the portfolio may result in some increased volatility over that of the
general market average. The Fund intends to be fully invested unless it has
adopted a temporary defensive position.
RESERVE SMALL-CAP GROWTH FUND. Reserve Small-Cap Growth Fund's objective is to
seek capital appreciation through investment in a portfolio of primarily small
capitalization companies. Any production of income is secondary to this
objective. There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment
objective.
Generally, the Fund will seek to invest in equity securities issued by
companies with investment characteristics such as accelerating rates of revenue
and earnings growth, market dominance or a strong defensible market niche, unit
growth couples with stable or rising profit margins, a sound balance sheet and
skilled management with an ownership stake. The Fund is designed for investors
seeking the opportunity for substantial long-term growth who can accept
above-average stock market risk and little or no current income. At least 65% of
the value of the Fund's assets will be invested in smaller-sized companies whose
outstanding shares have an aggregate market value of $1 billion or less, unless
the Fund has adopted a temporary defensive position.
It is the Sub-Adviser's view that small companies are generally expected to
show growth over time that is above the growth rate of the overall economy and
that of large established companies. The Fund may also invest in companies
presenting special situations when it is believed that the shares offer a strong
potential for capital appreciation due to the market underestimating earnings
potential, changes in management or other similar opportunities.
Investing in small companies involves greater risk than is customarily
associated with investments in larger, more established companies due to the
greater business risks of small size, limited markets and financial resources
and lack of information. The securities of smaller companies are often traded
over the counter and have less liquidity than larger stocks. Therefore, shares
of the Fund may be subject to greater fluctuation on value than shares of a
conservative equity fund which invests in larger capitalization companies.
INVESTMENT TECHNIQUES AND INVESTMENTS
The investments and techniques described in this section are subject to the
specific requirements or minimum investment policies found in the Investment
Objectives and Policies section of each Fund.
CASH EQUIVALENTS. Each Fund may invest in cash equivalents, which are
short-term obligations issued or guaranteed as to interest and principal by the
U.S. government or any instrumentality thereof (including repurchase agreements
collateralized by such securities) and
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deposit-type obligations of domestic and foreign banks or the equivalent
thereof. Instruments which are not rated may also be purchased by a Fund
provided such instruments are determined to be of comparable quality by the
Sub-Adviser under the supervision of the Adviser and the Board of Trustees to
those instruments in which the Fund may invest.
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS. Each Fund may engage in repurchase agreement
transactions. A repurchase agreement is a transaction by which a Fund purchases
a security and simultaneously commits to resell that security to the seller (a
bank or securities dealer) at an agreed-upon price at a later date. Each Fund
will limit repurchase agreements to those securities dealers who are deemed
credit worthy pursuant to guidelines adopted by the Board of Trustees. The
Sub-Advisers will follow procedures to assure that all repurchase agreements are
always fully collateralized as to principal and interest. If the other party to
the repurchase agreement defaults or becomes insolvent or declares bankruptcy, a
Fund may encounter difficulties and incur costs, and possibly a loss, upon
disposition of the underlying securities.
LENDING OF PORTFOLIO SECURITIES. Each Fund may from time to time lend
securities on a short-term basis to banks, brokers and dealers (but not
individuals) and receive as collateral cash, bank letters of credit or
securities issued by the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities
(or any combination thereof), which collateral will be required to be maintained
at all times in an amount equal to at least 100% of the current value of the
loaned securities plus accrued interest. The value of the securities loaned
cannot exceed 25% of each Fund's total assets. Loan arrangements made by a Fund
will require the borrower, after notice, to redeliver the securities within the
normal settlement time of three (3) Business Days. In connection with a loan of
securities, a Fund may pay reasonable finders', custodian and administrative
fees. Loans of securities involve risks of delay in receiving additional
collateral or in recovering the securities lent or even loss of rights in the
collateral in the event of insolvency of the borrower of the securities. The SAI
further explains each Fund's securities' lending policies.
U.S. TREASURY SECURITIES. Each Fund may invest in securities issued, guaranteed
or collateralized by U.S. Treasury obligations, including Bills, Notes, and
Bonds, all of which are backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S.
government.
SECURITIES OF U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCIES AND INSTRUMENTALITIES. Each Fund may
invest in both adjustable rate and fixed rate securities issued, guaranteed, or
collateralized by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. government,
including, but not limited to, Government National Mortgage Association (GNMA),
Federal National Mortgage Association (FNMA) and Federal Home Loan Mortgage
Corporation (FHLMC) securities. Obligations of GNMA, the Farmers Home
Administration and the Export-Import Bank are backed by the full faith and
credit of the U.S. In the case of securities not backed by the full faith and
credit of the U.S. government, the Funds must look principally to the agency
issuing or guaranteeing the obligation for ultimate repayment. Such securities
include obligations issued by the Student Loan Marketing Association (SLMA),
FNMA and FHLMC, each of which may borrow from the U.S.
Treasury to meet its obligations although the U.S. Treasury is under no
obligation to lend to such entities. GNMA, FNMA and FHLMC may also issue
collateralized mortgage obligations.
Each Fund may also invest in component parts of these securities or
instruments collateralized thereby, namely either the principal of such
obligations (principal only or "PO" class) or one of the interest payments
scheduled to be paid on such obligations (interest only or "IO" class). These
obligations may take the form of (i) obligations from which the interest coupons
have been stripped; (ii) the interest coupons that are stripped; (iii) book
entries at a Federal Reserve member bank representing ownership of obligation
components; or (iv) receipts evidencing the component parts (principal or
interest) of U.S. government obligations that have not actually been stripped.
Such receipts evidence ownership of component parts of U.S. government
obligations purchased by a third party (typically an investment-banking firm)
and held on its behalf by a major commercial bank or trust company pursuant to a
custody agreement. A "stripped security" issued by an investment-banking firm or
other private organization is not considered to be a U.S. government security.
CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES. Reserve Convertible Securities and Reserve
International Equity Funds may invest in convertible securities. Prior to
conversion, convertible securities have the same general characteristics as
non-convertible debt securities, which provide a stable stream of income with
generally higher yields than those of equity securities of the same or similar
issuers. The price of a convertible security will normally vary with changes in
the price of the underlying stock, although the higher yield tends to make the
convertible security less volatile than the underlying common stock. As with
debt securities, the market value of convertible securities tends to decline as
interest rates increase, and increase as interest rates decline. While
convertible securities generally offer lower interest or dividend yields than
non-convertible debt securities of similar quality, they enable investors to
benefit from increases in the market price of the underlying common stock. The
Funds will invest in such securities that are investment grade, rated Baa/BBB or
higher or unrated securities of equivalent quality. These bonds have speculative
characteristics and share some of the same characteristics of lower-rated
securities. For example, sustained periods of deteriorating economic conditions
or of rising interest rates are more likely to lead to a weakening in the
issuer's capacity to pay interest and repay principal than would be the case of
higher-rated securities. If a downgrade below the minimum rating occurs, the
Funds will sell the securities. Foreign convertible securities, which may be
held by the Reserve International Equity Fund, are not rated.
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RIGHTS AND WARRANTS. Reserve International Equity Fund will invest in rights or
warrants only if the underlying equity securities themselves are deemed
appropriate by the Sub-Adviser for inclusion in the Fund's portfolio. Rights and
warrants may be considered more speculative than certain other types of
investments in that they do not entitle a holder to dividends or voting rights
with respect to the underlying securities, nor do they represent any rights to
the assets of the issuing company. The value of a right or warrant does not
necessarily change with the value of the underlying security, although it may
decline because of a decrease in the value of the underlying security, the
passage of time or a change in perception as to the potential of the underlying
security, or any combination thereof. If the market price of the underlying
security is below the exercise price set forth in the warrant on the expiration
date, the warrant will expire worthless. Moreover, a right or warrant ceases to
have value if it is not exercised prior to the expiration date.
DEPOSITORY RECEIPTS. Reserve International Equity Fund may invest in depository
receipts which may not necessarily be denominated in the same currency as the
underlying securities into which they may be converted. In addition, the issuers
of the stock of unsponsored depository receipts are not obligated to disclose
material information in the U.S., and therefore, there may not be a correlation
between such information and the market value of the depository receipts. ADRs
are depository receipts typically issued by a U.S. bank or trust company that
evidence ownership of underlying securities issued by a foreign corporation.
Global Depository Receipts ("GDRs") and other types of depository receipts are
typically issued by foreign banks or trust companies and evidence ownership of
underlying securities issued by either a foreign or a U.S. company. Generally,
depository receipts in registered form are designed for use in the U.S.
securities markets, and depository receipts in bearer form are designed for use
in foreign securities markets. Investments of the Fund in ADRs are deemed to be
investments in securities issued by U.S. issuers and those in GDRs and other
types of depository receipts are deemed to be investments in the underlying
foreign securities.
The Fund may also invest in securities of supranational entities such as the
World Bank or the European Investment Bank.
ILLIQUID SECURITIES. Each Fund may hold up to 15% of the value of its net
assets in securities for which a liquid trading market does not exist and,
therefore, may not be able to readily sell such securities. Such securities
include securities that are not readily marketable, such as certain securities
that are subject to legal or contractual restrictions on resales, repurchase
agreements providing for settlement in more than seven (7) days after notice,
and certain asset-backed and mortgage-backed securities. The Fund will treat
U.S. government POs and IOs as illiquid securities so long as the staff of the
Securities and Exchange Commission maintains its position that such securities
are illiquid. Restricted securities eligible for resale pursuant to Rule 144A
under the Securities Act of 1933 that have a readily available market are not
considered illiquid for purposes of this limitation if they meet guidelines
established by the Board of Trustees.
Purchased over-the-counter ("OTC") options and the assets used as cover for
written OTC options will be treated as illiquid securities so long as the staff
of the Securities and Exchange Commission maintains its position that such
securities are illiquid. However, the Fund may treat a certain portion of the
securities it uses as cover for written OTC options as liquid provided it
follows a specified procedure. The Fund may sell OTC options only to qualified
dealers who agree that the Fund may repurchase any options it writes for a
maximum price to be calculated by a predetermined formula. In such cases, OTC
options would be considered liquid only to the extent that the maximum
repurchase price under the formula exceeds the intrinsic value of the option.
The Sub-Advisers will monitor the liquidity of such restricted securities under
the supervision of the Adviser and Board of Trustees.
Many of the foreign countries in which the Reserve International Equity Fund
invests do not have a Securities Act similar to the U.S. requiring an issuer to
register the sale of securities with a governmental agency or imposing legal
restrictions on resales of securities, either as to length of time the
securities may be held or manner of resale. However, there may be contractual
restrictions on resale of securities.
PUT AND CALL OPTIONS ON SPECIFIC SECURITIES. Each of the Funds may write and
sell covered put option contracts to the extent of 25% of the value of their
total assets at the time such option contracts are written. However, the Reserve
Small-Cap Growth Fund and Reserve Informed Investors Growth Fund may invest only
up to 5% of the value of their total assets, represented by the premium paid, in
the purchase of put and call options on specific securities. Such options may be
traded on national securities exchanges or over-the-counter.
There is no limitation on the amount of call options each Fund may write. A
call option gives the purchaser of the option, in exchange for the premium paid,
the right to buy the security subject to the option at the exercise price at any
time prior to expiration. The writer of a call option, in return for the
premium, has the obligation, upon the exercise of the option, to deliver,
depending upon the terms of the contract, the underlying securities or a
specified amount of cash to the purchaser upon receipt of the exercise price. A
put option gives the purchaser, in return for a premium, the right to sell the
security at the exercise price at any time prior to the expiration of the
option. The writer of a put option, in return for the premium, has the
obligation, upon exercise of the option, to acquire the underlying security at
the exercise price. If a call written by the Funds is exercised, the Funds forgo
any possible profit from an increase in the market price of the underlying
security or other asset over the exercise price plus the premium paid. In
writing puts, there is a risk that the Funds may be required to take delivery of
the underlying security or other asset at a disadvantageous price. Also, an
option purchased by the Funds may expire worthless, in which case the Funds
would lose the premium they paid.
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OTC options differ from exchange-traded options in several respects. They
are transacted directly with dealers and not with a clearing corporation, and
there is a risk of nonperformance by the dealer as a result of insolvency of the
dealer or otherwise, in which event the Funds may experience material losses.
However, in writing options the premium is paid in advance by the dealer. OTC
options are available for a greater variety of securities and other assets, and
a wider range of expiration dates and exercise prices, than for exchange traded
options.
The Funds will only write covered options. An option is covered so long as a
Fund which is obligated under the option owns an offsetting position in the
underlying security or maintains cash, U.S. government securities or other
liquid high-grade debt obligations with a market value sufficient to cover its
obligations in a segregated account with its custodian bank.
The successful use of options by a Fund is subject to its Sub-Adviser's
ability to correctly predict movements in the market. If the Sub-Adviser is not
successful in employing options in managing the Fund's investments, performance
will be worse than if the Fund did not make such investments. In addition, the
Fund would pay commissions and other costs in connection with such investments,
which may increase its expenses and reduce its return.
INVESTMENT IN FOREIGN SECURITIES. Reserve International Equity Fund may
purchase foreign equity and debt securities, including foreign government
securities to an aggregate of not more than 10% of its total assets in the
securities of issuers of any single foreign country. Foreign securities markets
generally are not as developed or efficient as those in the U.S. and securities
traded there are less liquid and more volatile than those traded in the U.S.
The Funds may be subject to additional risks because stock certificates and
other evidence of ownership of foreign issuers may be held outside the U.S. Such
additional risks include: adverse political and economic developments;
nationalization of foreign issuers and possible adoption of government
restrictions which might affect the payment of principal, interest and dividends
to U.S. investors. In addition, there may be less publicly available information
about a foreign issuer, since they are generally not subject to the timely
accounting and financial reporting disclosure standards of U.S. companies.
In making the allocation of assets in foreign markets, the Sub-Advisers will
consider such factors as prospects for relative economic growth, inflation,
interest rates, government policies influencing business conditions, the range
of individual investment opportunities available, and other pertinent financial,
tax, social, political and national factors, all in relation to the prevailing
prices of securities in each country. Nearly all foreign securities in which the
Reserve International Equity Fund may invest will be traded on foreign stock
exchanges or issued by foreign governments.
Reserve International Equity Fund will invest in developing countries, which
involves exposure to economic structures that are typically less diverse and
mature than in the U.S., and to political systems which are less stable. A
developing country may be considered to be one which is in the initial stages of
its conversion from an agrarian insular society to an international
manufacturing participant.
FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTIONS. Reserve International Equity Fund may engage in
foreign currency transactions in connection with its investment in foreign
securities but will not speculate in foreign-currency exchange. The value of the
assets of the Fund as measured in U.S. dollars may be affected favorably or
unfavorably by changes in foreign currency exchange rates and exchange-control
regulations, and the Fund may incur costs in connection with conversions between
various currencies. The Fund will conduct its foreign-currency exchange
transactions either on a spot (i.e., cash) basis at the spot rate prevailing in
the foreign-currency exchange market or through forward contracts to purchase or
sell foreign currencies. A forward foreign currency exchange contract involves
an obligation to purchase or sell a specific currency at a future date, which
may be any fixed number of days from the date of the contract agreed upon by the
parties, at a price set at the time of the contract. These contracts are traded
directly between currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their
customers.
When the Fund enters into a contract for the purchase or sale of a security
denominated in a foreign currency, it may want to establish the U.S. dollar cost
or proceeds, as the case may be. By entering into a forward contract in U.S.
dollars for the purchase or sale of the amount of foreign currency involved in
an underlying security transaction, the Fund is able to protect itself from
possible loss between trade and settlement dates resulting from an adverse
change in the relationship between the U.S. dollar and such foreign currency.
However, this tends to limit potential gains that might result from a positive
change in such currency relationships. The Fund may also hedge its foreign
currency exchange rate risk by engaging in foreign currency financial futures
and options transactions.
When the Fund's Sub-Adviser believes that the currency of a particular
foreign country may suffer a substantial decline against the U.S. dollar, it may
enter into a forward contract to sell an amount of foreign currency
approximating the value of some or all of the Fund's securities denominated in
such foreign currency. In this situation the Fund may, in the alternative, enter
into a forward contract to sell a different foreign currency for a fixed U.S.
dollar amount where the Fund's Sub-Adviser believes that the U.S. dollar value
of the currency to be sold pursuant to the forward contract will fall whenever
there is a decline in the U.S. dollar value of the currency in which portfolio
securities of the Fund are denominated ("cross-hedge"). The forecasting of
short-term currency market movements is extremely difficult and whether such a
short-term hedging strategy will be successful is highly uncertain.
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It is impossible to forecast with absolute precision the market value of
portfolio securities at the expiration of a contract. Accordingly, it may be
necessary for the Fund to purchase additional currency on the spot market (and
bear the expense of such purchase) if the market value of the security is less
than the amount of foreign currency the Fund is obligated to deliver when a
decision is made to sell the security and make delivery of the foreign currency
in settlement of a forward contract. Conversely, it may be necessary to sell on
the spot market some of the foreign currency received upon the sale of the
portfolio security if its market value exceeds the amount of foreign currency
the Fund is obligated to deliver.
The Fund will not enter into forward contracts or maintain a net exposure in
such contracts where the Fund would be obligated to deliver an amount of foreign
currency in excess of the value of the Fund's securities or other assets (a)
denominated in that currency or (b) in the case of a "cross-hedge," denominated
in a currency or currencies that the Fund's Sub-Adviser believes will have price
movements that tend to correlate closely with that currency. The Fund's
Custodian bank segregates cash or liquid high-grade debt securities in an amount
not less than the value of the Fund's total assets committed to forward foreign
currency exchange contracts entered into for the purchase of a foreign currency.
If the value of the securities segregated declines, additional cash or
securities are added so that the segregated amount is not less than the amount
of the Fund's commitments with respect to such contracts. There is no limitation
as to the percentage of the Fund's assets that may be committed to such
foreign-currency exchange contracts. The Fund generally will not enter into a
forward contract with a term longer than one year.
DEFENSIVE POSITION. For temporary defensive purposes, each Fund may invest
without limitation in certain types of short-term, liquid, high-grade debt
securities. These securities may include U.S. government securities, qualifying
bank deposits, money-market instruments, and other types of short-term debt
securities including notes and bonds. For Funds that may invest in foreign
countries, such securities may also include short-term, foreign-currency
denominated securities issued by foreign governmental entities, companies and
supranational organizations. For a complete description of the types of
securities each Fund may invest in while in a temporary defensive position,
please see the Funds' SAI.
NON-DIVERSIFIED STATUS. As a non-diversified mutual fund, each Fund is
permitted to have all its assets invested in a limited number of issuers. As a
result, an investment in a Fund could entail greater risk than a mutual fund
with a policy of diversification.
RISK CONSIDERATIONS
Investment in certain Funds involves the special risk considerations
described below. These risks may be heightened when investing in emerging
markets.
CURRENCY CONSIDERATIONS. Some of the assets of the Reserve International Equity
Fund will be invested in securities denominated in foreign currencies and a
corresponding portion of the Fund's revenues will be received in such
currencies. Therefore, the dollar equivalent of their net assets, distributions
and income will be adversely affected by reductions in the value of certain
foreign currencies relative to the U.S. dollar. If the value of the foreign
currencies in which a Fund receives its income falls relative to the U.S. dollar
between receipt of the income and the making of Fund distributions, the Fund may
be required to liquidate securities in order to make distributions if it has
insufficient cash in U.S. dollars to meet distribution requirements that the
Fund must satisfy to qualify as a regulated investment company for federal
income tax purposes. Similarly, if an exchange rate declines between the time
the Fund incurs expenses in U.S. dollars and the time cash expenses are paid,
the amount of the currency required to be converted into U.S. dollars in order
to pay expenses in U.S. dollars, could be greater than the equivalent amount of
such expenses in the currency at the time they were incurred. In light of these
risks, the Fund may engage in certain currency-hedging transactions, which
themselves involve certain special risks. See "Investment Techniques and
Investments" on page 9.
FOREIGN INVESTMENT. The securities markets of many foreign countries are
relatively small, with the majority of market capitalization and trading volume
concentrated in a limited number of companies representing a small number of
industries. Consequently, the Reserve International Equity Fund, whose
investment portfolios include such securities, may experience greater price
volatility and significantly lower liquidity than a portfolio invested solely in
equity securities of U.S. companies. These markets may be subject to greater
influence by adverse events affecting the general market and by large investors
trading significant blocks of securities than is usual in the U.S. securities
settlements may in some instances be subject to delays and related
administrative uncertainties. These problems are particularly severe in India,
where settlement is through physical delivery and where a severe shortage of
vault capacity exists among custodial banks. Efforts are being undertaken to
alleviate the shortage. Certain foreign countries require governmental approval
prior to investments by foreign persons or limit investment by foreign persons
to only a specified percentage of an issuer's outstanding securities or a
specific class of securities which may have less advantageous terms (including
price) than securities of the company available for purchase by nationals. These
restrictions or controls may at times limit or preclude investment in certain
securities and may increase the costs and expenses of the Fund. In addition, the
repatriation of investment income, capital or the proceeds of sales of
securities from certain of the countries is controlled under regulations,
including, in some cases, the need for certain advance government notification
or authority, and if a deterioration occurs in a country's balance of payments,
the country could impose temporary restrictions on foreign capital remittances.
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The Fund could be adversely affected by delays in, or a refusal to grant,
any required governmental approval for repatriation, as well as by the
application to it of other restrictions on investments. Investing in local
markets may require the Fund to adopt special procedures, which may involve
additional costs to the Fund. The liquidity of the Fund's investments in any
country in which any of these factors exist could be affected and the
Sub-Adviser will monitor the effect of any such factor or factors on the Fund's
investments. Furthermore, transaction costs including brokerage commissions for
transactions both on and off the securities exchanges in many foreign countries
are generally higher than in the U.S.
Issuers of securities in foreign jurisdictions are generally not subject to
the same degree of regulation as are U.S. issuers with respect to such matters
as insider trading rules, restrictions on market manipulation, shareholder proxy
requirements and timely disclosure of information. The reporting, accounting and
auditing standards of foreign countries may differ, in some cases significantly,
from U.S. standards in important respects and less information may be available
to investors than is available about U.S. issuers.
The economies of individual foreign countries may differ favorably or
unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such respects as to growth of the gross
domestic product or gross national product, rate of inflation, capital
reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and balance of payments position.
Nationalization, expropriation or confiscatory taxation, currency blockage,
political changes, government regulation, political or social instability or
diplomatic developments could adversely affect the economy of a foreign country
or the Fund's investments in such country. In the event of expropriation,
nationalization or other confiscation, the Fund could lose its entire investment
in the country involved. In addition, laws in foreign countries governing
business organizations, bankruptcy and insolvency may provide less protection to
security holders such as the Fund than that provided by U.S. laws.
U.S. AND FOREIGN TAXES (RISK CONSIDERATIONS). Although each of the Funds
intends to continue to qualify as a regulated investment company under the
Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), and to distribute
substantially all of its taxable income so as to avoid the imposition of U.S.
income and excise taxes, it is possible that events could occur which would
cause a Fund to incur some U.S. taxes. In addition, one or more of the Funds
with investments in stock or securities of foreign corporations, (e.g., the
Reserve International Equity Fund), may incur foreign income taxes. The
applicable tax laws which affect the Funds and their shareholders are subject to
change, which may be retroactive. Prospective investors should consult their own
tax advisors with regard to the federal tax consequences of the purchase,
ownership, or disposition of a Fund's shares, as well as the tax consequences
arising under the laws of any state, foreign country, or other taxing
jurisdiction. See the discussion at "Taxes" and "Foreign Taxes" set forth below.
FIXED-INCOME SECURITIES. The value of a Fund's shares will fluctuate with the
value of its investments. The value of fixed-income securities will decline in
value as interest rates rise, and increase in value as interest rates decline.
MANAGEMENT
INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT AGREEMENT. Since November 15, 1971, Reserve Management
Company, Inc. (the "Adviser"), 14 Locust Place, Manhasset, NY 11030, and its
affiliates have provided investment advice to the Reserve Funds which currently
has assets in excess of $5.1 billion as of the date of this prospectus. Under
the Investment Management Agreement, the Adviser manages the Funds and invests
in furtherance of its objectives and policies subject to the overall control and
direction of the Funds' Board of Trustees. The Adviser supervises a continuous
investment program for the Funds, evaluates and monitors each Sub-Adviser's
performance, investment programs, and compliance with applicable laws and
regulations, and recommends to the Board of Trustees whether the Sub-Adviser's
contract should be continued or modified. The Adviser is also responsible for
the day-to-day administration of each Fund's activities. Under the Investment
Management Agreement, the Adviser pays all employee costs, costs of the
Sub-Advisers and other ordinary operating expenses of each Fund. Excluded from
ordinary operating expenses are interest, taxes, brokerage fees, extraordinary
legal and accounting fees and expenses, payments made pursuant to the Trust's
Distribution Plan and the fees of the disinterested Trustees.
For its services under the Investment Management Agreement, the Adviser is
paid a Management Fee represented as a percentage of the average daily net
assets of each Fund and class in the amounts shown on the chart entitled "Annual
Fund Operating Expenses" found on page 2.
YEAR 2000. The Trust could be adversely affected if the computer systems and
service providers that interface with it are unable to process data from January
1, 2000 and after. However, the Adviser is taking steps to reasonably address
this issue and to obtain assurance that comparable effort is being made by the
Trust's other service providers. There can be no assurance that these steps will
be sufficient to avoid any adverse impact to the Trust.
SUB-ADVISERS. The Investment Management Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreements
provide that the Adviser and each Sub-Adviser, respectively, shall not be liable
for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by a Fund
in connection with the matters to which the agreements relate, except a loss
resulting from the willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the
part of the Adviser or Sub-Adviser in the performance of their duties or from
reckless disregard by them of their duties under each respective agreement. None
of these organizations have previously served as either Adviser or Sub-Adviser
to a registered investment company.
The Adviser and Trust have retained the Sub-Advisers listed below. Each is a
registered investment adviser.
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TRAINER, WORTHAM & COMPANY, INC., 845 THIRD AVENUE, NEW YORK, NY 10022, was
formed in 1924 and manages over $2.5 billion for individuals, family trusts and
employee benefit plans and has over seventy years experience using the
investment policies discussed herein. Charles V. Moore, the Fund's portfolio
manager has been the president of the Sub-Adviser since 1978 and is responsible
for the day-to-day investment decisions of the Reserve Blue Chip Growth Fund.
NEW VERNON ADVISORS, INC., 310 SOUTH STREET, P.O. BOX 1913, MORRISTOWN, NJ
07962, an affiliate of William E. Simon & Sons, L.L.C., was formed in 1990 and
currently manages or advises $700 million for private investment funds,
high-net-worth individuals, charitable organizations and educational
institutions. J. Peter Simon, an Executive Director and a founder of William E.
Simon & Sons, is president of New Vernon Advisors, Inc., and serves as the
firm's convertible securities manager and is responsible for the day-to-day
investment decisions of the Reserve Convertible Securities Fund.
T.H. FITZGERALD & CO., 180 CHURCH STREET, NAUGATUCK, CT 06770, was formed in
1959 and currently manages over $200 million for employee benefit plans, bank
trust departments, an insurance company and a public authority and has over ten
years of experience in using the investment policies discussed herein. Thomas H.
Fitzgerald, Jr., who founded his firm in 1959, serves as the Fund's portfolio
manager and is responsible for the day-to-day investment decisions of the
Reserve Informed Investors Growth Fund.
PINNACLE ASSOCIATES, LTD., 666 FIFTH AVENUE, NEW YORK, NY 10103, was formed
in 1984 and currently manages over $400 million for individuals, family trusts
and employee-benefit plans. Nicholas Reitenbach is director of international
investments and partner of Pinnacle Associates, Ltd., and serves as the Reserve
International Equity Fund's primary portfolio manager. Mr. Reitenbach has over
thirty years of experience in using the investment techniques discussed herein.
SIPHRON CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, 280 S. BEVERLY DRIVE, BEVERLY HILLS, CA 90212,
was formed in 1991 and currently manages over $750 million for tax-exempt and
taxable clients. The senior management of Siphron Capital has over thirty years
of experience in using the investment policies discussed herein. David C.
Siphron and Peter D. Siphron, both partners of the firm, serve as the Reserve
Large-Cap Growth Fund's portfolio managers, providing investment recommendations
based on a proprietary combination of fundamental and technical analysis.
Portfolio actions are based on mutual consent, with David Siphron having final
approval.
PEKIN, SINGER & SHAPIRO ASSET MANAGEMENT, 311 SOUTH WACKER DRIVE, CHICAGO,
IL 60606, was formed in 1990 and currently manages over $359 million for
individuals, family trusts, and institutions. JoAnne Pekin, a founder of the
firm and its president, and Martha Doran serve as the Fund's portfolio managers.
Mrs. Pekin has more than thirty years of experience in the investment business
and is responsible for the day-to-day investment decisions of the Reserve
Mid-Cap Equity Fund.
ROANOKE ASSET MANAGEMENT, 529 FIFTH AVENUE, NEW YORK, NY 10017, was formed
in 1978 and currently manages over $200 million for high-net-worth individuals,
foundations, endowments, corporations and municipalities, and each of the
portfolio managers has over twenty-five years of experience in using the
investment policies discussed herein. Edwin G. Vroom, president, Brian J.
O'Connor, executive vice-president, and Adele S. Weisman, senior vice-president,
serve as the Fund's portfolio managers, and have worked together as a team for
over twenty years. Together, they are responsible for the day-to-day investment
decisions of the Reserve Small-Cap Growth Fund.
For their services, the Sub-Adviser of each Fund receive an annual fee of up
to one-half of the Adviser's net profit for the year before taxes of the
respective Fund. Net profit is deemed to be the Management Fee less Fund
expenses and all applicable sales and marketing costs. The Adviser may also pay
a Sub-Adviser for marketing assistance.
PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS. Decisions as to the purchase and sale of securities for
each Fund and the execution of these transactions, including the negotiation of
brokerage commission on such transactions, are the responsibility of each
Sub-Adviser. In general, each Sub-Adviser seeks to obtain prompt and reliable
execution of purchase and sale orders at the most favorable net prices or
yields. In determining the best net price and execution, each Sub-Adviser may
take into account a broker's or dealer's operational and financial capabilities
and the type of transaction involved.
The Sub-Advisers may consider statistical, research, or other services
provided by brokers or dealers, some of which may be useful to each Sub-Adviser
in their other business functions. To the extent such non-price factors are
taken into account, the execution price paid may be increased, but only in
reasonable relation to the benefit of such non-price factors as determined in
good faith by each Sub-Adviser. Each Sub-Adviser is authorized to place
portfolio transactions with brokers or dealers participating in the distribution
of shares of its Fund, but only if the Sub-Advisers reasonably believe that the
execution and commission are comparable to those available from other qualified
firms. Further, subject to procedures adopted by, and under the supervision of
the Board of Trustees, each Sub-Adviser is authorized to place portfolio
transactions with brokers or dealers affiliated with each Sub-Adviser, provided
the commission or fee paid on the transaction is reasonable and fair when
compared to the commission or fee charged by other brokers or dealers on
comparable transactions involving similar securities being purchased or sold on
a securities exchange during a comparable period of time.
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<PAGE> 16
The annual portfolio turnover rate of each Fund is expected to approximate
100%, except for the Reserve International Equity Fund, which is expected to be
less than 100% under normal market conditions. See "Portfolio Turnover,
Transaction Charges and Allocation" in the SAI. High portfolio turnover rates
(i.e., over 100%) can increase the Fund's transaction costs, including brokerage
commissions.
During the fiscal years ended May 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998, the portfolio
turnover rate for the Reserve Informed Investors Growth Fund was higher than
expected due to the following market conditions: (1) extraordinary volatility,
especially in the small to medium capitalization stocks which have a dominant
weight in the portfolio, made it necessary to re-balance the Fund's weighted
capitalization; (2) concentration of informed investor buy signals in a tightly
defined number of industry sectors lead to higher than normal portfolio sector
concentration which often amplified volatility and turnover rates through the
need for re-balancing of the portfolio; (3) market responses to the earnings
outlook for a broad list of portfolio-held companies led to a series of
management miscalls; and (4) a substantial portion of the gain on the S&P 500
indices has been attributable to the largest capitalization stocks on the
indices. The Sub-Adviser has had to guide the Fund through a market which has
been turbulent and extremely narrow as a result, while strictly adhering to the
Fund's informed investor strategy.
In the Sub-Adviser's view, all of these factors are showing signs of
moderating. The Fund's Sub-Adviser believes that the Fund's portfolio turnover
rate should revert to the expected level of close to 100% during the current
fiscal year.
If the markets remain highly volatile, the portfolio turnover rate of the
Reserve Convertible Securities Fund is expected to remain above historical
levels (i.e. approximately 100%) on an annualized basis as a result of swapping
common stock for the related convertible security when the premium warrants or
changing perceptions of a given company's prospects.
TRUSTEES. Under the Declaration of Trust, which is governed by the laws of the
State of Delaware, the Trustees are ultimately responsible for the conduct of
its affairs. The Trustees serve indefinite terms (subject to certain removal
procedures) and they appoint their own successors, provided that at least a
majority of the Trustees have been elected by shareholders. The Declaration of
Trust provides that a Trustee may be removed at any special meeting of
shareholders by a vote of a majority of the Trust's outstanding shares.
TRANSFER AGENT AND DIVIDEND-PAYING AGENT. The Trust acts as its own transfer
agent and divided-paying agent.
HOW TO BUY SHARES
METHOD OF PAYMENT. For Class R Shares, the minimum initial investment is $1,000
and the minimum subsequent investment is $100, except for IRAs. However, Class R
shareholders (except IRAs) must achieve a balance of $2,500 within twelve (12)
months, or the Fund may choose to impose a fee (currently $5 monthly; see "Small
Balances"). The initial minimum investment in Class R Shares for an IRA is $250,
and subsequent investments are accepted in any amount. For Class I Shares, the
minimum initial investment is $250,000 and the minimum subsequent investment is
$10,000. The Funds reserve the right, with respect to any person or class of
persons, under certain circumstances to waive or lower investment minimums. An
initial purchase must be accompanied by an Account Application. If no dealer or
broker is named in the Account Application, the Distributor will act as dealer.
Shares of the Funds may be purchased each Business Day at the public offering
price determined after receipt of payment and a request in proper form by the
Funds or by an investment dealer which has a sales agreement with the Funds'
Distributor. The public offering price is equal to the net asset value of a
Fund. Payments (denominated in U.S. dollars) must be made if purchasing directly
from the Funds:
- By check -- Drawn on a U.S. bank, payable to or endorsed to Reserve
Private Equity Series. You must include your account number on each check
unless it is an initial purchase. Checks should be mailed to The Reserve
Funds, 810 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10019-5868. A fee (currently $15)
will be imposed if any check used for investment in your account does not
clear. The investor is also liable to reimburse the Funds for any loss
incurred due to a returned check. Neither initial nor subsequent
investments may be made by a third party check.
- By wire -- Prior to calling your bank, call the Funds for specific
instructions at 800-637-1700 or the broker-dealer or financial institution
from which you received this prospectus.
Investments in the Funds may also be made through investment dealers which
have sales agreements with RESRV Partners, Inc., the distributor of the Funds'
shares ("Authorized Dealer"). Such dealers should send the investor's Account
Application and payment to the Funds. Payment may be made by check or wire.
Purchase orders will be confirmed at the public offering price calculated next
after receipt by the Funds or an Authorized Dealer (which order must be promptly
transmitted to the Funds), of a properly completed Account Application and
payment. The Fund must be notified before 4:00 PM (New York time) of the amount
to be transmitted and the account to be credited, and the Fund must receive the
credit at its bank by 4:00 PM (New York time). Orders received by the Funds or
an Authorized Dealer after 4:00 PM (New York time) will be priced at the public
offering price in effect at 4:00 PM (New York time) on the next Business Day.
GENERAL INFORMATION. Shares of each Fund will have the same relative rights and
privileges and be subject to the same fees and expenses except as set forth
below. The Board of Trustees may determine in the future that other allocations
of expenses are appropriate and amend this plan accordingly without the approval
of shareholders. Income, realized and unrealized capital gains and
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losses, and expenses of the Funds of the Trust shall be allocated to shares of
that Fund. Expenses of the Trust not allocable to a specific Fund shall be
allocated to each Fund on the basis of the net asset value of that Fund in
relation to the net asset value ("NAV") of the Trust.
The Distributor, at its expense, will also provide additional compensation
to broker-dealers, financial consultants and financial institutions in
connection with actual or anticipated sales of shares of the Funds, but only to
the extent permitted by law or regulation.
VOTING RIGHTS. Shares of the Funds shall have exclusive voting rights on any
matter submitted to shareholders that relates solely to its arrangement.
RESERVE PRIVATE EQUITY SERIES AUTOMATIC ASSET-BUILDER PLAN. (Class R shares
only). If you have an account balance of $5,000 or more, you may purchase
shares of a Fund ($25 minimum) from a checking, NOW, or bank money-market
deposit account or from a U.S. government distribution ($25 minimum) such as
Social Security, federal salary, or certain veterans' benefits, or other
payments from the federal government. Call the Funds at 800 637-1700 for an
application.
NET ASSET VALUE. Fund shares are issued at NAV which is calculated at the close
of each Business Day (normally 4:00 PM New York time). A Business Day is Monday
through Friday exclusive of regional bank holidays and New Year's Day, Martin
Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day (observed),
Independence Day, Labor Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day,
Christmas, any other days the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") is closed for
trading. The NAV per share of each Fund is determined by adding the value of a
Fund's portfolio securities, cash and other assets, subtracting its liabilities,
and dividing the result by the number of shares outstanding.
INDIVIDUAL RETIREMENT ACCOUNTS. Investors may use each Fund as an investment
for Individual Retirement Accounts ("IRAs"). A master IRA plan, with information
regarding administration fees and other details are available from RESRV
Partners, Inc. The initial minimum investment is $250. Subsequent investments
are accepted in any amount.
DISTRIBUTOR. The Funds' Distributor is RESRV Partners, Inc. ("RESRV") 810
Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10019-5868. The Distributor is a wholly-owned
subsidiary of the Adviser.
All orders for the purchase of shares of each Fund are subject to acceptance
or rejection by RESRV, at its sole discretion. The sale of shares will be
suspended during any period when the determination of net asset value is
suspended, and may be suspended by the Board of Trustees whenever, in its
judgment, it is in the best interests of the Funds to do so.
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE. Shares of each RPES Fund may be exchanged for shares in the
Reserve money-market funds and other separate investment portfolios that may be
offered by the Trust at NAV.
The exchange privilege is not available for shares which have been held for
less than fifteen (15) days. Exchanges by telephone are an automatic privilege
unless the shareholder notifies the Fund on the Account Application that his
authorization has been withheld. Unless authorization is withheld, the Fund will
honor requests by any person by telephone at 800-637-1700, that the Fund deems
to be valid. The Funds and their affiliates may be liable for any losses caused
by their failure to employ reasonable procedures to avoid unauthorized or
fraudulent instructions.
To reduce such risk, the registration of the account into which shares are
to be exchanged must be identical to the registration of the originating account
and all telephone exchange requests will be recorded. The Fund may also require
the use of a password or other form of personal identification. In addition,
each Fund will provide written confirmation of exchange transactions. During
periods of volatile economic and market conditions, a shareholder may have
difficulty making an exchange request by telephone, in which case an exchange
request would have to be made in writing.
The Trust may modify or discontinue the exchange privilege at any time, and
will do so on sixty (60) days notice, if such notice is required by regulations
adopted under the 1940 Act. The notice period may be shorter if applicable law
permits. The Trust reserves the right to reject telephone or written requests
submitted in bulk on behalf of ten (10) or more accounts. A pattern of frequent
exchanges may be deemed by the Adviser to be abusive and contrary to the best
interests of the Fund's other shareholders and, at the Adviser's discretion, may
be limited by the Fund's refusal to accept additional purchases and/or exchanges
from the investor and/or the imposition of fees. The Funds do not have any
specific definition of what constitutes a pattern of frequent exchanges. Any
such restriction will be made on a prospective basis, upon notice to the
shareholder not later than ten (10) days following such shareholder's most
recent exchange. Telephone and written exchange requests must be received by the
Funds by 4:00 PM (New York time) on a regular Business Day to take effect that
day. Exchange requests received after 4:00 PM (New York time) will be effected
at the next calculated NAV.
Exchanges of shares are taxable events and may result in a gain or loss for
federal income tax purposes. See the discussion at "Taxes" set forth below. A
prospectus for any of the Reserve money-market funds or other series of the
Trust may be obtained from the Distributor or any Authorized Dealer. An investor
considering an exchange should refer to the appropriate Fund Prospectus for
additional information since each Fund has different investment objectives and
policies.
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DISTRIBUTION PLAN. Under the Distribution Plan ("Plan") adopted pursuant to
Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act, each Fund pays RESRV for advertising, marketing
and distributing each Fund's Class R shares and for servicing each Fund's Class
R shareholders at a maximum annual rate of 0.25% of the value of each Fund's
average daily net assets attributable to its Class R shares. If the Plan were
terminated or not continued, no amounts (other than amounts accrued but not yet
paid) would be owed by the Funds. The Class I shares of each Fund do not
participate in the Plan.
Under the Plan, RESRV at its discretion may make payments to brokers,
financial institutions and financial intermediaries ("Firms") for administration
and for servicing Fund shareholders who are also their clients and/or for
distribution. Firms receive such fees with respect to the average daily NAV of
each Fund's Class R shares owned by shareholders for whom they perform services
and are the dealer of record. Firms providing distribution assistance or
administrative services for each Fund may be required to register as securities
dealers in certain states. The fees, payable to RESRV, under the Plan are made
without regard to actual expenses incurred. Thus, if fees exceed distribution
expenses, RESRV will incur a profit; however, if expenses exceed fees, then they
will incur a loss. RESRV may use such fees to promote the sale of shares by
paying for the preparation, printing and distribution of prospectuses to other
than current shareholders or other promotional activities.
SHARES OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST
The Trust is an open-end management investment company commonly known as a
mutual fund. The Trust was organized as an unincorporated Delaware business
trust on April 22, 1993, and is authorized to issue an unlimited number of
shares of beneficial interest, which may be issued in any number of portfolios
and classes. Shareholders are entitled to a full vote for each full share held
(and fractional votes for fractional shares) and have equal rights with respect
to earnings, dividends, redemption and in the net assets of their respective
portfolios on liquidation. The Trust has no intention of issuing share
certificates. All shares issued will be fully paid and non-assessable and will
have no preemptive or conversion rights. The Trustees do not intend to hold
annual meetings of shareholders. The Trustees will call such special meetings of
shareholders as may be required under the 1940 Act (e.g., to approve a new
investment advisory agreement or to change the fundamental investment policies)
or by the Declaration of Trust.
TAXES
The following discussion is intended for general information only.
Prospective investors should consult their own tax advisors with regard to the
federal tax consequences of the purchase, ownership, or disposition of Fund
shares, as well as the tax consequences arising under the laws of any state,
foreign country, or other taxing jurisdiction.
Each Fund intends to maintain its regulated investment company status for
federal income tax purposes, so that it will not be liable for federal income
taxes to the extent its investment company taxable income and net capital gains
are distributed. Dividends paid by each Fund from net investment income,
including net short- term capital gains, whether in cash or in additional shares
of each Fund, will be taxable as ordinary income.
The Code imposes a nondeductible 4% excise tax on regulated investment
companies that do not distribute to their shareholders in each calendar year an
amount equal to 98% of their calendar year ordinary income, plus 98% of their
capital gain net income (the excess of short- and long-term capital gains over
short- and long-term capital losses) for the one-year period ending October 31.
Dividends declared in October, November, or December of any year to shareholders
of record on any date in such a month will be deemed to have been received by
the shareholders and paid by each Fund on December 31 of such year, provided
such dividends are paid during January of the following year.
Distribution of net capital gains (the excess of net long-term capital gains
over net short-term capital losses), if any, designated as capital gain
dividends may be taxable to individuals and certain other shareholders at the
maximum federal 20% capital gains rate, depending upon the holding period of the
assets giving rise to the capital gains, whether paid in cash or additional
shares of the Fund, regardless of the length of time Fund shares have been held,
and are not eligible for the dividends-received deduction available to
corporations. Dividends and other distributions may also be subject to state and
local taxes. A purchase of Fund shares shortly before the ex-dividend date or
capital gains distribution could result in the receipt of an amount which,
although in effect a return of principal, is subject to income taxes.
Under the Code, exchanges and redemptions of shares, including transfers of
shares of each Fund for shares of another fund with which the Funds have
exchange privileges, are taxable events, and accordingly, may result in a
capital gain or loss for shareholders participating in such transactions.
Capital gains may be taxable to individuals and certain other shareholders at
the maximum federal 20% capital gains rate, depending upon the shareholder's
holding period for the Fund shares. Deductions for losses recognized on the
disposition of shares may, in some circumstances, be disallowed or deferred.
Furthermore, shareholders electing to reinvest dividends or other distributions
in new shares will, nevertheless, be treated as having received such
distributions for tax purposes.
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A Fund may be required to withhold U.S. federal income tax at the rate of
31% of all taxable distributions payable to certain shareholders who fail to
provide the Fund with their correct taxpayer identification number or to make
required certifications, or who have been notified by the Internal Revenue
Service that they are subject to backup withholding. Backup withholding is not
an additional tax. Any amounts withheld may be credited against the
shareholder's U.S. federal income tax liability.
For tax purposes, each Fund will send shareholders an annual notice of
dividends and distributions paid during the prior year. Shareholders are advised
to retain all statements received from each Fund to maintain accurate records of
their investments. The tax treatment of non-resident alien individuals, foreign
corporations, and other non-U.S. shareholders may differ from that described
above. Further information relating to tax matters is contained in the SAI.
Prospective investors should consult their own tax advisors with regard to the
federal tax consequences of the purchase, ownership, or disposition of Fund
shares, as well as the tax consequences arising under the laws of any state,
foreign country, or other taxing jurisdiction.
FOREIGN TAXES
One or more of the Funds with investments in stock or securities of foreign
corporations, (e.g., the Reserve International Equity Fund), may incur foreign
income taxes, including foreign taxes withheld at the source. If certain
statutory requirements are met, a Fund which incurs foreign income taxes may
make an election which has the effect of causing a U.S. shareholder to include
in income and treat as if paid by such shareholder his or her pro rata share of
such foreign income taxes, for which the U.S. shareholder may be able to claim a
tax deduction or tax credit. There can be no assurance that a Fund will meet the
requirements or elect to pass through its foreign income taxes to its
shareholders. Further information relating to tax matters is contained in the
SAI. Prospective investors should consult their own tax advisors with regard to
the federal tax consequences of the purchase, ownership, or disposition of Fund
shares, as well as the tax consequences arising under the laws of any state,
foreign country, or other taxing jurisdiction.
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS
All dividends and capital gains distributions, if any, are paid in the form
of additional shares credited to an investor's account at NAV unless the
shareholder has requested on the Account Application or in writing to the Fund
one of the following three options:
(1) Distribute capital gains in cash and reinvest income dividends.
(2) Distribute income dividends in cash and reinvest capital gains.
(3) Distribute both income dividends and capital gains in cash.
These three options are not available for retirement plans or accounts with
a NAV of less than $1,000 and/or if the distribution would be less than $25.
Any net investment income will be distributed quarterly as dividends to
shareholders. Any net realized short- and long-term capital gains, if any, will
be paid to shareholders at least annually. The payment date will be used to
determine NAV when dividends and capital gains distributions are reinvested.
REDEMPTIONS
TIME AND METHOD OF REDEMPTION. Each Fund's shares are redeemed at NAV
determined as of the next close of the NYSE on a regular Business Day after the
written request by any person in proper form is received by the Fund, at 810
Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10019-5868. Redemptions may be effected during
regular Business Days from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM (New York time). Redemption
requests received after the close of business will be effected at the next
calculated net asset value.
WRITTEN AND TELEPHONE REDEMPTION REQUESTS. The Funds strongly suggest (but do
not require) that each Class R redemption be at least $1,000 and each Class I
redemption be at least $100,000, except for redemptions which are intended to
liquidate the account. A shareholder will be charged $2 for Class R redemption
checks issued by the Funds for less than $100, and $100 for Class I redemption
checks of less than $100,000. Upon request, redemptions will be made by bank
wire, however, Class R wire redemptions of less than $10,000 will be charged a
fee (currently $10) and Class I wire redemptions of less than $100,000 will also
be charged a fee (currently $100). The Funds assume no responsibility for delays
in the receipt of wired or mailed funds. The use of a predesignated financial
institution, such as a savings bank, credit union or savings and loan
association which is not a member of the Federal Reserve wire system to receive
your wire could cause such a delay. If a Fund has previously been advised in
writing of your brokerage or bank account, telephone requests will be accepted
by calling 800-637-1700. The Funds may be liable for any losses caused by their
failure to employ reasonable procedures. To reduce the risk of loss, proceeds of
telephone redemptions may be sent only (1) to the bank or brokerage account
designated by the shareholder on the Application or in a letter with the
signature(s) guaranteed; or (2) to the address of record if all the conditions
listed below are met. To change the designated brokerage or bank account it is
necessary to contact the Firm through which shares of the Fund were purchased
or, if purchased directly from the Funds, it is necessary to send a
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written request to the Funds with signature(s) guaranteed as described below.
Other redemption orders must be in writing with the necessary signature(s)
guaranteed by a domestic commercial bank; a domestic trust company; a domestic
savings bank, credit union or savings association; or a member firm of a
national securities exchange. Guarantees from notaries public are unacceptable.
The Funds will waive the signature guarantee requirement for redemption requests
once every thirty (30) days if all of the following conditions apply: if the
redemption check is (1) for $5,000 or less; (2) payable to the shareholder(s) of
record; and (3) mailed to the shareholder(s) at the address of record. The
requirement of a guaranteed signature protects against an unauthorized person
redeeming shares and obtaining the redemption proceeds. Redemption instructions
and election of the plans described below may be made when your account is
opened. Subsequent elections and changes in instructions must be in writing with
the signature(s) guaranteed. Changes in registration or authorized signatories
may require additional documentation.
The Funds reserve the right to refuse a telephone redemption if they believe
it is advisable to do so. Procedures for telephone redemptions may be modified
or terminated by a Fund at any time without notice to shareholders. During times
of drastic economic or market conditions, shareholders may experience difficulty
in contacting the Funds by telephone to request a redemption or exchange of a
Fund's shares. In such cases shareholders should consider using another method
of redemption, such as a written request.
AUTOMATIC WITHDRAWAL PLANS. (Class R shares only). If you have an account with
a balance of at least $5,000, you may make a written election to participate in
either of the following: (i) an Income Distribution Plan providing for monthly,
quarterly or annual payments by redemption of shares from reinvested dividends
or distributions paid to your account during the preceding period; or (ii) a
Fixed Amount Withdrawal Plan providing for the automatic redemption of a
sufficient number of shares of your account to make a specified monthly,
quarterly or annual payment of a fixed amount. Changes to instructions must be
in writing with signature(s) guaranteed. In order for such payments to continue
under either Plan, there must be a minimum of $25 available from reinvested
dividends or distributions. Payments can be made to you or your designee. An
application for the Automatic Withdrawal Plans can be obtained from the Funds.
The amount, frequency and recipient of the payments may be changed by giving
proper written notice to the Funds. The Funds may impose a charge or modify or
terminate any Automatic Withdrawal Plan at any time after the participant has
been duly notified. This privilege may not be available to clients of some Firms
or may be available subject to conditions or limitations.
RESERVE AUTOMATIC TRANSFER PLAN. (Class R shares only). You may redeem Class R
shares of a Fund by telephone (minimum $100) without charge if you have filed a
separate Reserve Automatic Transfer Plan application with the Fund. The proceeds
will be transferred between your Fund account and the checking, NOW or bank
money-market deposit account (as permitted) designated in the application. Only
such an account maintained in a domestic financial institution which is an
Automated Clearing House member may be so designated. Redemption proceeds will
be on deposit in your account at the Automated Clearing House member bank
ordinarily two (2) Business Days after receipt of the redemption request. The
Funds may impose a charge or modify or terminate this privilege at any time
after the participant has been duly notified. This privilege may not be
available to clients of some Firms or may be available subject to conditions or
limitations.
REDEMPTIONS THROUGH BROKERS AND FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS. Redemptions through
brokers and financial institutions may involve such Firms' own redemption
minimums, service fees, and other redemption requirements.
RESTRICTIONS. The right of redemption may be suspended or the date of payment
postponed for more than seven (7) days only (a) when the NYSE is closed (other
than for customary closings), (b) when, as determined by the SEC, trading on the
NYSE is restricted or an emergency exists making it not reasonably practicable
to dispose of securities owned by the Fund or for it to determine fairly the
value of its net assets, or (c) for such periods as the SEC may by order permit.
If shares of a Fund are purchased by check or Reserve Automatic Transfer Plan,
the Fund may delay transmittal of redemption proceeds until such time as it has
assured itself that good payment has been collected for the purchase of such
shares, which will generally be up to ten (10) Business Days. When a purchase is
made by wire and subsequently redeemed, the proceeds from such redemptions
normally will not be transmitted until two (2) Business Days after the purchase
by wire.
GENERAL INFORMATION
JOINT OWNERSHIP. When an account is registered in the name of one person and
another, for example a husband and wife, either person is entitled to redeem
shares in the account. The Funds assume no responsibility to either joint owner
for actions taken by the other with respect to an account so registered. The
investment Application provides that persons so registering their account
indemnify and hold the Fund harmless for actions taken by either party.
BACKUP WITHHOLDING. The Funds are required by federal law to withhold 31% of
dividends and other distributions that are subject to federal income tax if (i)
a correct and certified Taxpayer Identification Number ("TIN") is not provided
for your account, (ii) you fail to certify that you have not been notified by
the IRS that you underreported taxable interest or dividend payments or (iii) a
Fund is notified by the IRS (or a broker) that the TIN provided is incorrect or
you are otherwise subject to backup withholding. Amounts withheld and forwarded
to the IRS can be credited as a payment of tax when completing your federal
income tax return. For individual shareholders, the TIN is the social security
number. However, special rules apply for certain accounts. For example, for an
account established under
20
<PAGE> 21
the Uniform Gift to Minors Act, the TIN of the minor should be furnished.
Shareholders should be aware that, under regulations promulgated by the IRS, a
Fund may be fined $50 annually for each account for which a certified TIN is not
provided or is incorrect. In the event that such a fine is imposed, a
corresponding charge will be made against the account.
REPORTS AND STATEMENTS. Shareholders receive an annual report containing
audited financial statements and an unaudited semiannual report. A statement is
mailed to each shareholder at least quarterly.
SMALL BALANCES. (Class R shares only). If a Class R shareholder account (other
than an IRA) does not achieve a balance of $2,500 within twelve (12) months, the
Funds reserve the right to impose a monthly fee (currently $5) or redeem the
account and remit the proceeds. The minimum balance requirement will be waived
if the account balance drops below $2,500 due to market depreciation. Some Firms
may establish variations of minimum balances and fee amounts if those variations
are approved by the Funds.
RESERVE EASY ACCESS. Easy Access is The Reserve Funds' 24-hour toll-free
telephone service that lets customers use a touch-tone phone to obtain price
information and account balances. To use it, call 800-637-1700 and follow the
instructions. Clients may also access full account activity for the previous six
months on the internet at www.reservefunds.com.
SPECIAL SERVICES. The Funds reserve the right, upon notice, to charge
shareholder accounts for specific costs incurred in processing unusual
transactions for shareholders. Such transactions include, but are not limited
to, stop payment requests on official Trust checks, returned checks and special
research services.
PERFORMANCE. From time to time, in advertisements and sales literature, the
Funds may present information regarding the total return on a hypothetical
investment in a Fund for various periods of performance and may make comparisons
of such total return to various stock indices (group of unmanaged common
stocks), or to groups of mutual funds. Such comparative performance information
will also be stated in the same terms in which the comparative data or indices
are stated. For these purposes, the performance of a Fund, as well as the
performance of the other mutual funds, do not reflect sales charges, the
inclusion of which would reduce a fund's performance.
Total return for a period is the percentage change in value during the
period of an investment in the Fund's shares, including the value of shares
acquired through reinvestment of all dividends and capital gains distributions.
The average annual total return for a given period may be calculated by finding
the average annual compounded rate of return that would equate a hypothetical
$1,000 investment to the value that the investment could be redeemed for at the
end of the period. All of the calculations described above will assume the
reinvestment of dividends and distributions in additional shares of the Fund.
Performance of a Fund will vary from time to time, and past results are not
necessarily indicative of future results. Performance information supplied by
each Fund may not provide a basis of comparison with other investments using
different reinvestment assumptions or time periods.
------------------------
THIS PROSPECTUS IS INTENDED TO CONSTITUTE AN OFFER BY EACH FUND ONLY OF THE
SECURITIES OF WHICH IT IS THE ISSUER AND IS NOT INTENDED TO CONSTITUTE AN OFFER
BY ANY FUND OF THE SECURITIES OF ANY OTHER FUND WHOSE SECURITIES ARE ALSO
OFFERED BY THIS PROSPECTUS. NO FUND INTENDS TO MAKE ANY REPRESENTATION AS TO THE
ACCURACY OR COMPLETENESS OF THE DISCLOSURE IN THIS PROSPECTUS RELATING TO ANY
OTHER FUND.
NO PERSON HAS BEEN AUTHORIZED TO GIVE ANY INFORMATION OR TO MAKE ANY
REPRESENTATIONS OTHER THAN THOSE CONTAINED IN THIS PROSPECTUS AND, IF GIVEN OR
MADE, SUCH INFORMATION OR REPRESENTATIONS MUST NOT BE RELIED UPON. THIS
PROSPECTUS DOES NOT CONSTITUTE AN OFFERING IN ANY JURISDICTION IN WHICH SUCH
OFFERING MAY NOT LAWFULLY BE MADE.
------------------------
21
<PAGE> 22
GLOSSARY
The following terms are frequently used in this Prospectus.
EQUITY SECURITIES are, (i) common stocks, partnership interests, business trust
shares and other equity or ownership interests in business enterprises, and (ii)
securities convertible into, and rights and warrants to subscribe for the
purchase of, such stocks, shares and interests.
DEBT SECURITIES are bonds, debentures, notes, bills, repurchase agreements,
loans, other direct debt instruments and other fixed, floating and variable rate
debt obligations.
FIXED-INCOME SECURITIES are debt securities and dividend-paying preferred stocks
which includes floating rate and variable rate instruments.
CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES are fixed-income securities that are convertible into
common stock.
U.S. GOVERNMENT SECURITIES are securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S.
government, its agencies or other federal governmental entities.
FOREIGN GOVERNMENT SECURITIES are securities issued or guaranteed by
governments, quasi-governmental entities, governmental agencies or other federal
governmental entities, other than the U.S. government.
QUALIFYING BANK DEPOSITS are certificates of deposit, bankers' acceptances and
interest-bearing savings deposits of banks having total assets of more than $1
billion and which may or may not be members of the Federal Deposit Insurance
Corporation.
RULE 144A SECURITIES are securities that may be resold without registration
pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the
"SECURITIES ACT").
1940 ACT is the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
22
<PAGE> 23
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<PAGE> 24
[This page intentionally left blank.]
<PAGE> 25
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
TABLE OF CONTENTS
<S> <C>
PAGE
---
Shareholder Expenses............................ 2
Financial Highlights............................ 3
Investment Objectives and Policies.............. 7
Investment Techniques and Investments........... 9
Risk Considerations............................. 13
Management...................................... 14
How to Buy Shares............................... 16
Shares of Beneficial Interest................... 18
Taxes........................................... 18
Foreign Taxes................................... 19
Dividends and Distributions..................... 19
Redemptions..................................... 19
General Information............................. 20
Glossary........................................ 22
Investors are advised to read and retain
this Prospectus for future reference.
</TABLE>
Founders of
"America's First
Money Fund"
810 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10019-5868
GENERAL INFORMATION, PURCHASES AND REDEMPTIONS
Nationwide 800-637-1700 M www.reservefunds.com
Distributor -- Resrv Partners, Inc.
RPES 09/98
<PAGE> 26
RESERVE PRIVATE EQUITY SERIES
810 SEVENTH AVENUE, NEW YORK, N.Y. 10019
212-977-9982 - 800-637-1700
-------------------------------------------------------------
24-HOUR YIELD AND BALANCE INFORMATION
Nationwide 800-637-1700 - www.reservefunds.com
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
This Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") describes Reserve Private
Equity Series ("Trust" or "RPES"), which consists of seven portfolios: Reserve
Blue Chip Growth Fund, Reserve Convertible Securities Fund, Reserve Informed
Investors Growth Fund, Reserve International Equity Fund, Reserve Large-Cap
Growth Fund (formerly Reserve Large-Cap Value Fund), Reserve Mid-Cap Equity Fund
(formerly Reserve Mid-Cap Growth Fund) and Reserve Small-Cap Growth Fund (each a
"Fund", together the "Funds"). This Statement is not a Prospectus, but provides
detailed information to supplement the Prospectus, dated September 22, 1998 and
should be read in conjunction with it. A copy of the Prospectus may be obtained
without charge by writing or calling the Trust at the above address or
telephone. The Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") maintains a web site
(http://www.sec.gov) that contains the SAI, the Prospectus, material
incorporated by reference, and other information regarding the Funds
electronically filed with the SEC. This SAI is dated September 22, 1998.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
PAGE
----
<S> <C>
Investment Policies...................................
Other Policies........................................
Trustees and Officers of the Trust....................
Investment Management and Other Agreements............
Portfolio Turnover, Transaction Charges and Allocation
Shares of Beneficial Interest.........................
Purchase, Redemption and Pricing of Shares............
Distributions and Taxes...............................
Performance Information...............................
Financial Statements..................................
</TABLE>
SHARES OF THE FUNDS ARE NOT DEPOSITS OR OBLIGATIONS OF, OR GUARANTEED OR
ENDORSED BY, ANY BANK AND ARE NOT FEDERALLY INSURED BY THE FEDERAL DEPOSIT
INSURANCE CORPORATION, THE FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD OR ANY OTHER AGENCY
<PAGE> 27
INVESTMENT POLICIES
Each Fund has adopted as fundamental policies the following limitations on
its investment activities. These fundamental policies may not be changed without
the affirmative vote of a majority of the outstanding shares of a Fund, as
defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 ("1940 Act"). Each Fund may not:
(1) borrow money except as a temporary measure for extraordinary or emergency
purposes and then only in an amount not to exceed 33 1/3% of the market
value of its assets;
(2) issue senior securities as defined in the 1940 Act except that each Fund
may borrow money in accordance with limitation (1);
(3) act as an underwriter with respect to the securities of others except to
the extent that, in connection with the disposition of portfolio
securities, it may be deemed to be an underwriter under certain federal
securities laws;
(4) invest 25% or more of the value of its total assets in the securities of
issuers in any particular industry;
(5) purchase, sell or otherwise invest in real estate or commodities or
commodity contracts except each Fund may purchase readily marketable
securities of companies holding real estate or interests therein and
interest rate futures contracts, stock index futures contracts, and put
and call options on interest rate futures contracts;
(6) invest in voting securities or in companies for the purpose of exercising
control; and
(7) purchase securities on margin, except to obtain such short-term credits as
may be necessary for the clearance of transactions; however, each Fund may
make margin deposits in connection with options and financial futures
transactions.
Each Fund has reserved the right to purchase and write interest rate
futures contracts and put and call options on interest rate futures contracts.
The Funds do not intend to use these techniques for the foreseeable future and
shareholders will be given notice should any Fund determine that they will be
used.
As non-diversified companies, each Fund is permitted to invest all of its
assets in a limited number of issuers. However, each Fund intends to comply with
Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the "Code"), in
order to qualify as a regulated investment company for federal income tax
purposes. To qualify, each Fund must diversify its holdings so that, at the
close of each quarter of its taxable year, (a) at least 50% of the value of its
total assets is represented by cash, cash items, securities issued by the U.S.
government or its agencies or instrumentalities, securities of other regulated
investment companies, and other securities limited generally with respect to any
one issuer to an amount not more than 5% of the total assets of the Fund and not
more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and (b) not
more than 25% of the value of its total assets is invested in the securities of
any one issuer (other than the U.S. government or its agencies or
instrumentalities or regulated investment companies), or in two or more issuers
that the Fund controls and that are engaged in the same or similar trades or
businesses. In the event of a decline in the market value of the securities of
one or more such issuers exceeding 5%, an investment in a Fund could entail
greater risk than in a fund which has a policy of diversification.
OTHER POLICIES
LENDING OF SECURITIES. Each Fund may, to increase its income, lend its
securities to brokers, dealers and institutional investors if the loan is
collateralized in accordance with applicable regulatory requirements (the
"Guidelines") and if, after any loan, the value of the securities loaned does
not exceed 25% of the value of its assets. Under the present Guidelines, the
loan collateral must, on each business day, at least equal the value of the
loaned securities and must consist of cash, bank letters of credit or securities
of the U.S. government or its agencies or instrumentalities. To be acceptable as
collateral, letters of credit must obligate a bank to pay amounts demanded by a
Fund if the demand meets the terms of the letter. Such terms and the issuing
bank would have to be satisfactory to the Fund. Any loan might be
2
<PAGE> 28
secured by any one or more of the three types of collateral. Each Fund receives
amounts equal to the dividends or interest on loaned securities and also
receives one or more negotiated loan fees, interest on securities used as
collateral or interest on short term debt securities purchased with such
collateral, either of which type of interest may be shared with the borrower.
Each Fund may also pay reasonable finders, custodian and administrative fees.
Loan arrangements made by a Fund will comply with all other applicable
regulatory requirements including the rules of the New York Stock Exchange
("NYSE"), which require the borrower, after notice, to redeliver the securities
within the normal settlement time three (3) Business Days. While voting rights
may pass with the loaned securities, if a material event will occur affecting an
investment on loan, the loan must be called and the securities voted.
ILLIQUID SECURITIES. Each Fund may not invest more than 15% of its net assets in
repurchase agreements which have a maturity of longer than seven (7) days or in
other illiquid securities, including securities that are illiquid by virtue of
the absence of a readily available market, or legal or contractual restriction
on resale. Historically, illiquid securities have included securities subject to
contractual or legal restrictions on resale because they have not been
registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended ("Securities Act"),
securities which are otherwise not readily marketable and repurchase agreements
having a maturity of longer than seven (7) days. Securities which have not been
registered under the Securities Act are referred to as private placements or
restricted securities and are purchased directly from the issuer or in the
secondary market. Mutual funds do not typically hold a significant amount of
these restricted or other illiquid securities because of the potential for
delays on resale and uncertainty in valuation. Limitations on resale may have an
adverse effect on the marketability of portfolio securities and a mutual fund
might be unable to dispose of restricted or other illiquid securities promptly
or at reasonable prices and might thereby experience difficulty satisfying
redemptions within seven (7) days. A mutual fund might also have to register
such restricted securities in order to dispose of them resulting in additional
expense and delay. Adverse market conditions could impede such a public offering
of securities.
In recent years, however, a large institutional market has developed for
certain securities that are not registered under the Securities Act including
repurchase agreements, commercial paper, foreign securities, municipal
securities and corporate bonds and notes. Institutional investors depend on an
efficient institutional market in which the unregistered security can be readily
resold or on an issuer's ability to honor a demand for repayment. The fact that
there are contractual or legal restrictions on resale to the general public or
to certain institutions may not be indicative of the liquidity of such
investments.
Rule 144A under the Securities Act allows for a broader institutional
trading market for securities otherwise subject to restriction on resale to the
general public.
Rule 144A establishes a "safe harbor" from the registration requirements
of the Securities Act for resales of certain securities to qualified
institutional buyers. The Adviser anticipates that the market for certain
restricted securities such as institutional commercial paper will expand further
as a result of this new regulation and the development of automated systems for
the trading, clearance and settlement of unregistered securities of domestic and
foreign issuers, such as the PORTAL(R) System sponsored by the NASD.
Restricted securities eligible for resale pursuant to Rule 144A under the
Securities Act for which there is a readily available market will not be deemed
to be illiquid if they meet guidelines established by the Board of Trustees. The
Adviser will monitor the liquidity of such restricted securities subject to the
supervision of the Board of Trustees. In reaching liquidity decisions, the
Adviser will consider, among other things, the following factors: (1) the
frequency of trades and quotes for the security; (2) the number of dealers
wishing to purchase or sell the security and the number of potential purchasers;
(3) dealer undertakings to make a market in the security and (4) the nature of
the security and the nature of the marketplace trades (e.g., the time needed to
dispose of the security, the method of soliciting offers and the mechanics of
the transfer). Repurchase agreements subject to demand are deemed to have a
maturity equal to the notice period. Investing in Rule 144A securities could
have the effect of increasing the level of the
3
<PAGE> 29
Fund's illiquidity to the extent that qualified institutional buyers become, for
a time, uninterested in purchasing these securities.
SECURITIES OF FOREIGN COMPANIES. (Reserve International Equity Fund only).
Investing in foreign securities may result in greater risk than that incurred by
investing in domestic securities. There is generally less publicly available
information about foreign companies compared to reports and ratings that are
published about companies in the U.S.
It is contemplated that most foreign securities will be purchased in
over-the-counter markets or on stock exchanges located in the countries in which
the respective principal offices of the issuers of the various securities are
located, if that is the best available market. Foreign stock markets are
generally not as developed or efficient as those in the U.S. While growing in
volume, they usually have substantially less volume than the NYSE, and
securities of some foreign companies are less liquid and more volatile than
securities of comparable U.S. companies. Similarly, volume and liquidity in most
foreign bond markets is less than in the U.S. and at times volatility of price
can be greater than in the U.S. Commissions on foreign stock exchanges are
generally higher than commissions on U.S. exchanges, although the Fund will
endeavor to achieve the most favorable net results on its portfolio
transactions. There is generally less government supervision and regulation of
foreign stock exchanges, brokers and listed companies than in the US.
With respect to certain foreign countries, there is the possibility of
adverse changes in investments or exchange control regulations, expropriation or
confiscatory taxation, limitations on the removal of funds or other assets of
the Fund, political or social instability, or diplomatic developments which
could affect U.S. investments in those countries. Moreover, individual foreign
economies may differ favorably or unfavorably from the U.S. economy in such
respects as growth of gross national product, rate of inflation, capital
reinvestment, resource self-sufficiency and balance of payments position.
The dividends and interest payable on certain of the Fund's foreign
portfolio securities may be subject to foreign withholding taxes, thus reducing
the net amount of income available for distribution to the Fund's shareholders.
Shareholders otherwise subject to U.S. federal income taxes may, subject to
certain limitations, be entitled to claim a credit or deduction for U.S. federal
income tax purposes for their proportionate share of such foreign taxes paid by
the Fund.
RISKS OF OPTIONS TRANSACTIONS. An exchange-traded option position may be closed
out only on a national securities exchange ("Exchange") which provides a
secondary market for an option of the same series. Although a Fund will
generally purchase or write only those options for which there appears to be an
active secondary market, there is no assurance that a liquid secondary market on
an Exchange will exist for any particular option at any particular time, and for
some exchange-traded options, no secondary market on an Exchange may exist. In
that event, it might not be possible to effect closing transactions in
particular options with the result that a Fund would have to exercise its
exchange-traded options in order to realize any profit and may incur transaction
costs as a result. If a Fund, as a covered call option writer, is unable to
effect a closing purchase transaction in a secondary market, it will not be able
sell the underlying security until the option expires or it delivers the
underlying security upon exercise.
Reasons for the absence of a liquid secondary market on an Exchange
include the following (a) insufficient trading interest in certain options; (b)
restrictions on transactions imposed by an Exchange; (c) trading halts,
suspension or other restrictions imposed with respect to particular classes or
series of options or underlying securities; (d) interruption of the normal
operations on an Exchange; (e) inadequacy of the facilities of an Exchange or
the Options Clearing Corporation ("OCC") to handle current trading volume; or
(f) a decision by one or more Exchanges to discontinue the trading of options
(or a particular class or series of options), in which event the secondary
market on the Exchange (or in the class or series of options) would cease to
exist, although outstanding options on that Exchange that had been issued by the
4
<PAGE> 30
OCC as a result of trades on that Exchange would generally continue to be
exercisable in accordance with their terms.
In the event of the bankruptcy of a broker through which a Fund engages in
options transactions, the Fund could experience delays and/or losses in
liquidating open positions purchased or sold through the broker and/or incur a
loss of all or part of its margin deposits with the broker. Similarly, in the
event of the bankruptcy of the writer of an over-the-counter option with a
recognized U.S. securities dealer ("OTC option") purchased by a Fund, the Fund
could experience a loss of all or part of the value of the option. Transactions
are entered into by the Fund only with brokers or financial institutions deemed
creditworthy by the Sub-Adviser.
The hours of trading for options may not conform to the hours during which
the underlying securities are traded. To the extent that the option markets
close before the market for the underlying securities, significant price and
rate movements can take place in the underlying markets that cannot be reflected
in the option markets.
DEFENSIVE POSITION. For temporary defensive purposes, each Fund may vary from
its investment policy during periods in which conditions in securities markets
or other economic or political conditions warrant. In such circumstances, a Fund
will increase its position in debt securities, which may include U.S. government
securities, qualifying bank deposits, money-market instruments and other types
of short-term debt securities including notes and bonds. For Funds that may
invest in foreign countries, such securities may also include short-term U.S.
government securities and U.S. dollar- or foreign currency-denominated
short-term indebtedness, cash equivalents and fixed-income securities issued or
guaranteed by governmental entities, or by companies or supranational
organizations (e.g., International Bank for Reconstruction and Development and
the European Community) rated AA or better by Standard & Poor's Corporation
("S&P"), or Aa or better by Moody's Investor Service, Inc. ("Moody's"); or if
not so rated, of equivalent investment quality as determined by the Adviser.
Apart from periods of defensive investment, each Fund may also at any time
temporarily invest funds awaiting reinvestment or held as reserves for dividends
and other distributions to shareholders in U.S. dollar-denominated money-market
instruments.
TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS OF THE TRUST
The Trustees and officers of the Trust and their principal occupations during
the past five years are set forth below.
** BRUCE R. BENT, 61, President, Treasurer and Trustee, 810 Seventh
Avenue, New York, NY 10019-5868.
Mr. Bent is President, Treasurer, and Trustee of Reserve Fund ("RF"),
Reserve Institutional Trust ("RIT"), Reserve Tax-Exempt Trust ("RTET"),
Reserve New York Tax-Exempt Trust ("RNYTET") and Reserve Private Equity Series
("RPES"), Director, Vice President and Secretary of Reserve Management
Company, Inc. ("RMCI") and Reserve Management Corporation ("RMC"); and
Chairman and Director of Resrv Partners, Inc. ("RESRV").
+EDWIN EHLERT, JR., 66, Trustee, 125 Elm Street, Westfield, NJ 07091.
Mr. Ehlert is President and Director of Ehlert Travel Associates, Inc.
(travel agency) and Ehlert Travel Associates of Florida, Inc. (travel agency),
and Trustee of RF, RIT, RTET, RNYTET and RPES.
+ HENRI W. EMMET, 72, Trustee, 1535 Presidential Drive, Apt. 4A, Columbus, OH
43212.
Mr. Emmet retired as the Managing Director of Servus Associates, Inc.
in 1994 and U.S.A. Representative of the First National Bank of Southern
Africa in 1996. Since 1995, Mr. Emmet has served
5
<PAGE> 31
as a Principal of Global Interaction, which provides consulting services to
international banking interests. He is currently Trustee of RF, RIT, RTET,
RNYTET and RPES.
+DONALD J. HARRINGTON, C.M., 53, Trustee, St. John's University, Jamaica, NY
11439.
The Reverend Harrington is President of St. John's University, NY, a
Trustee RF, RIT, RTET, RNYTET and RPES and a Director of the Bear Stearns
Companies, Inc. since 1993.
BRUCE R. BENT II, 32, Senior Vice President and Assistant Secretary, 810
Seventh Avenue, New York, NY 10019-5868.
Mr. Bent II joined The Reserve Funds in 1992 and is Senior Vice President
and Assistant Secretary of RF, RIT, RTET, RNYTET and RPES.
MARYKATHLEEN FOYNES, 28, Counsel and Secretary, 810 Seventh Avenue, New York, NY
10019-5868.
Ms. Foynes is Counsel and Secretary of RF, RIT, RNYTET, RTET and RPES.
Before joining The Reserve Funds in 1998, Ms. Foynes was a staff attorney at
PaineWebber, Inc.
- -------------
+ Messrs. Ehlert, Emmet and Harrington are members of a Review Committee which
performs the functions of an Audit Committee and reviews compliance procedures
and practices.
** Interested Trustee within the meaning of the 1940 Act of 1940.
The members of the Board of Trustees who are not Interested Trustees, will be
paid a stipend of $3,500 for each joint Board meeting that they attend and an
annual fee of $16,000 by for service to all of the trusts in the complex.
Under the Declaration of Trust, the Trustees and officers are entitled to
be indemnified by the Trust to the fullest extent permitted by law against all
liabilities and expenses reasonably incurred by them in connection with any
claim, suit or judgment or other liability or obligation of any kind in which
they become involved by virtue of their service as a Trustee or officer of the
Trust, except liabilities incurred by reason of their willful misfeasance, bad
faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the
conduct of their office.
As of August 31, 1998, Trustees and officers (excluding Bruce R. Bent)
directly or indirectly as a group owned less than 1% of the outstanding shares
of the Funds. As of August 31, 1998, Bruce R. Bent owned 2.2% of the outstanding
shares of all the Funds combined. The Trust does not pay any pension or
retirement benefits.
COMPENSATION TABLE
for fiscal year ended May 31, 1998
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
AGGREGATE TOTAL COMPENSATION
COMPENSATION FROM TRUST AND TRUST COMPLEX
NAME OF TRUSTEE, POSITION FROM TRUST (4 ADDITIONAL TRUSTS) PAID TO TRUSTEE
- --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Bruce R. Bent, President and Trustee $ 0 $ 0
Edwin Ehlert, Jr., Trustee $117 $30,000
Henri W. Emmet, Trustee $117 $30,000
Rev. Donald J. Harrington, Trustee $117 $30,000
</TABLE>
6
<PAGE> 32
INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT AND OTHER AGREEMENTS
THE ADVISER. Reserve Management Company, Inc. ("RMCI" or "Adviser") 14
Locust Place, Manhasset, NY 11030, a registered investment adviser, manages the
Trust and provides it with investment advice. Under an Investment Management
Agreement, the Adviser manages each Fund, is responsible for the day-to-day
oversight of the Trust's operations and otherwise administers the affairs of the
Trust as it deems advisable subject to the overall control and direction of the
Trustees and the investment policies and limitations of the Trust described in
the Prospectus and SAI. RMCI pays all employee costs and other ordinary
operating costs of each Fund pursuant to the Investment Management Agreement
which include: registration fees paid to the commission and state regulators,
costs associated with the annual update of each Fund's registration statement,
auditing annual financial statements, and printing and mailing costs (exclusive
of those associated with the Distribution Plan). Excluded from ordinary
operating costs are interest charges, taxes, brokerage fees, extraordinary legal
and accounting fees and expenses, payments made pursuant to the Trust's
Distribution Plan and the fees of the disinterested Trustees, for which each
Fund pays its direct or allocated share.
For its management services, and for paying all of the employee costs,
costs of each Sub-Adviser and other ordinary operating expenses of the Trust,
RMCI is periodically paid a Management Fee at the following rates:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
MANAGEMENT FEE*
---------------------------------
CLASS R SHARES CLASS I SHARES
<S> <C> <C>
Reserve Blue Chip Growth 1.20% 0.90%
Reserve Convertible Securities 1.30% 1.00%
Reserve Informed Investors Growth 1.30% 1.00%
Reserve International Equity 1.55% 1.25%
Reserve Large-Cap Growth 1.20% 0.90%
Reserve Mid-Cap Growth 1.30% 1.00%
Reserve Small-Cap Growth 1.30% 1.00%
</TABLE>
- -------------
* As a percentage of the average daily net assets attributable to each
Class.
The Investment Management Agreement is subject to annual review and must
be approved at least annually by a vote of a majority of the Board of Trustees,
including a majority of those who are not "interested persons" as defined in the
1940 Act, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such
renewal. The Agreement terminates automatically upon its assignment and may be
terminated without penalty upon 60 days' written notice by vote of the Trustees,
by vote of a majority of outstanding voting shares of the Fund or by the
Adviser.
For the fiscal years ended May 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998, the fees payable
to the Adviser under the Investment Management Agreement amounted to $337,840,
$545,982 and $795,252, respectively.
THE SUB-ADVISER. The Adviser and the Trust have entered into Sub-Advisory
Agreements with several Sub-Advisers. Each Sub-Adviser is a registered
investment adviser. Pursuant to the Sub-Advisory Agreements, the Adviser will
pay the Sub-Adviser at the end of each fiscal quarter a fee equal to up to
one-half of the Adviser's net profit for the year before taxes on the respective
Fund. Net profit is deemed to be the Management Fee less Fund expenses and all
applicable sales and marketing costs. The chart below shows the Sub-Adviser
retained for each Fund and the amounts paid to each Sub-Adviser pursuant to the
Sub-Advisory Agreements during the last three fiscal years.
7
<PAGE> 33
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Fund Sub-Adviser 1998 1997 1996
- ---- ----------- ---- ---- ----
<S> <C> <C> <C> <C>
Reserve Blue Chip Growth Trainer, Wortham & Company $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
845 Third Avenue
New York, NY 10022
Reserve Convertible New Vernon Advisers, Inc. $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
Securities 310 South Street
P.O. Box 1913
Morristown, NJ 07962
Reserve Informed Investors T.H. Fitzgerald & Co. $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
Growth 180 Church Street
Naugatuck, CT 06770
Reserve International Pinnacle Associates, Ltd. $29,000 $ 0 $ 0
Equity 666 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10103
Reserve Large-Cap Growth Siphron Capital Management $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
280 S. Beverly Drive
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Reserve Mid-Cap Equity* Pekin, Singer & Shapiro N/A N/A N/A
Asset Management
311 South Wacker Drive
Chicago, IL 60606
Reserve Small-Cap Growth Roanoke Asset Management $ 0 $ 0 $ 0
529 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10017
</TABLE>
- --------------------------
* Until June 30, 1998, Southern Capital Advisors, 50 Front Street, Memphis, TN
38103, served as the Sub-Adviser for Reserve Mid-Cap Growth Fund. For the
fiscal years ended May 31, 1998 and 1997 and the period from March 13, 1996 to
May 31, 1996, Southern Capital Advisors was paid sub-advisory fees amounting
to $0, $0, and $0, respectively.
Each Sub-Advisory Agreement is subject to annual review and approval by
the Trustees, including a majority of those who are not "interested persons" as
defined in the 1940 Act, cast in person at a meeting called for purpose of
voting on such renewal. Each agreement automatically terminates upon its
assignment and may be terminated without penalty upon 60 days' written notice by
vote of the Trustees, by vote of a majority of outstanding voting shares of the
Fund or by the Sub-Advisor.
CUSTODIAN. The Chase Manhattan Bank, 4 New York Plaza, New York, NY 10004
is Custodian for the cash and securities of the Trust. The Custodian maintains
custody of the Trust's cash and securities, handles its securities settlements
and performs transaction processing for receipts and disbursements in connection
with the purchase and sale of the Trust's shares.
DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT. Resrv Partners, Inc. ("RESRV"), 810 Seventh
Avenue, New York, NY 10019-5868, is a distributor of the shares of the Trust.
RESRV is a "principal underwriter" for the Trust within the meaning of the 1940
Act, and as such acts as agent in arranging for the continuous offering of Trust
shares. RESRV has the right to enter into dealer agreements with brokers or
other
8
<PAGE> 34
persons of its choice for the sale of Trust shares. RESRV's principal business
is the distribution of shares of mutual funds and it has retained no
underwriting commissions during the last three fiscal years.
The Distribution Agreement must be approved annually by the Trustees,
including a majority of those who are not "interested persons," as defined in
the 1940 Act.
DISTRIBUTION PLAN. The Trust maintains a Distribution Plan ("Plan") and
related agreements, as amended, under Rule 12b-1 of the 1940 Act, which provides
that investment companies may pay distribution expenses, directly or indirectly,
pursuant to a plan adopted by the Board and approved by its shareholders.
Pursuant to the Plan, the Distributor or its affiliates may make payments
("assistance payments") to brokers, financial institutions and financial
intermediaries ("Firms") in respect of each Fund's Class R shareholder accounts
("qualified accounts") as to which the Firm has rendered distribution assistance
or other services. The Distributor may also retain amounts to pay for
advertising and marketing expenses. Assistance payments by the Distributor are
made to Firms at an annual rate of 0.25% of the average daily net asset value
("NAV") of all Firms' qualified accounts. The Trustees have determined that
there is a reasonable likelihood that the Plan will benefit the Trust and its
shareholders and that its costs are primarily intended to result in the sale of
the Trust's shares. The Class I shares of each Fund do not participate in the
Plan.
The Glass-Steagall Act prohibits all entities which receive deposits from
engaging to any extent in the business of issuing, underwriting, selling or
distributing securities, although national and state-chartered banks are
permitted to purchase and sell securities upon the order and for the account of
their customers. Those persons who wish to provide assistance in the form of
activities not primarily intended to result in the sale of Fund shares (such as
administrative and account maintenance services) may include banks, upon advice
of counsel that they are permitted to do so under applicable laws and
regulations, including the Glass-Steagall Act. In such event, no preference will
be given to securities issued by such banks as investments, and the assistance
payments received by such banks under the Plan may or may not compensate the
banks for their administrative and account maintenance services for which the
banks may also receive compensation from the bank accounts they service. It is
Fund management's position that payments to banks pursuant to the Plan for
activities not primarily intended to result in the sale of Fund shares, such as
administrative and account maintenance services, do not violate the
Glass-Steagall Act. However, this is an unsettled area of the law and if a
determination contrary to management's position is made by a bank regulatory
agency or court concerning payments to banks contemplated by the Plan, any such
payments will be terminated and any shares registered in the bank's name, for
its underlying customer, will be registered in the name of that customer.
Financial institutions providing distribution assistance or administrative
services for the Fund may be required to register as securities dealers in
certain states.
Under the Plan, the Trust's officers report quarterly the amounts and
purposes of assistance payments to the Trustees. During the continuance of the
Plan the selection and nomination of the disinterested Trustees of the Trust are
at the discretion of the disinterested Trustees currently in office.
The Plan and related agreements as to any Fund may be terminated at any
time by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of that Fund.
The Plan and related agreements may be renewed from year to year if approved by
a vote of a majority of the Board of Trustees, including a majority of those who
are not "interested persons" as defined in the 1940 Act. The Plan may not be
amended to increase materially the amount to be spent for distribution without
shareholder approval. All material amendments to the Plan must be approved by a
majority vote of the Board of Trustees, including a majority of the
disinterested Trustees, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of
such vote.
For the fiscal period ended May 31, 1998, with respect to the qualified
accounts, the Trust made assistance payments to Firms for expenditures under the
Plan in the aggregate amount of $123,792, which constituted 0.25% of the Fund's
average daily net assets attributable to the Class R shares (formerly known
9
<PAGE> 35
as Class A shares and including the former Class D shares) during the period. Of
the $123,792 paid by the Trust under the Plan, with respect to the Class A
shares, $194 was spent on advertising, $43,159 was spent on the printing and
mailing of prospectuses for persons other than current shareholders, $81,437 was
spent for compensation to brokers and dealers and other financial intermediaries
and $223 was spent on printing of sales literature, travel, entertainment, due
diligence and other promotional expenses. The excess was absorbed by the
Distributor.
INDEPENDENT ACCOUNTANTS. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, 1301 Avenue of
Americas, New York, NY 10019 is the Trust's independent accountants.
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER, TRANSACTION CHARGES AND ALLOCATION
The annual portfolio turnover rate of each Fund is expected to approximate
100%, except for Reserve International Equity Fund, which is expected to be less
than 100% under normal market conditions and except for Reserve Informed
Investors Fund, which is expected to approximate 200% under normal market
conditions. Turnover rate is the lesser of purchases or sales of portfolio
securities for a year (excluding all securities with maturities of one year or
less) divided by the monthly average of the market value of such securities.
Subject to the overall supervision of the officers of the Trust, its Board
of Trustees, and the Adviser, each Sub-Adviser places all orders for the
purchase and sale of their respective Fund's investment securities. In general,
in the purchase and sale of investment securities, each Sub-Adviser will seek to
obtain prompt and reliable execution of orders at the most favorable prices or
yields. In determining best price and execution, each Sub-Adviser may take into
account a dealer's operational and financial capabilities, the type of
transaction involved, the dealer's general relationship with the Fund's
Sub-Adviser, and any statistical, research, or other services provided by the
dealer. To the extent such non-price factors are taken into account, the
execution price paid may be increased, but only in reasonable relation to the
benefit of such non-price factors to the Fund as determined in good faith by the
Fund's Sub-Adviser. Brokers or dealers who execute investment securities
transactions for a Fund may also sell its shares; however, any such sales will
not be either a qualifying or disqualifying factor in the selection of brokers
or dealers. Subject to procedures adopted by, and the supervision of, the Board
of Trustees, each Sub-Adviser is authorized to place portfolio transactions with
brokers or dealers affiliated with it provided the commission or fee charged is
comparable to that charged by non-affiliated brokers or dealers on comparable
transactions involving similar securities being purchased or sold during a
comparable period of time on a securities exchange. Any such transactions will
be in accordance with Rule 17e-1 under the 1940 Act.
When transactions are made in the over-the-counter market, each Fund deals
with the primary market makers unless more favorable prices are otherwise
obtainable.
For the fiscal years ended May 31, 1996, 1997 and 1998, the Trust paid
$106,504, $164,911 and $242,827, respectively, in brokerage commissions with
respect to portfolio transactions aggregating $57,755,867, $113,307,153 and
$183,924,454, respectively. All of the amount paid in fiscal 1998 in brokerage
commissions was to brokers or dealers who provide research and investment
services.
For the period of March 13, 1996 through May 31, 1996 and for the fiscal
years ended May 31, 1997 and 1998, the Reserve Mid-Cap Equity Fund (formerly
Reserve Mid-Cap Growth Fund) paid $0, $955 and $6,740, respectively, in
brokerage commissions with respect to portfolio transactions to Morgan Keegan,
an affiliate of Southern Capital Advisers, the former Sub-Adviser to the Fund.
For the fiscal year ended May 31, 1998, the amount paid to Morgan Keegan
represented 52% of the aggregate brokerage commissions paid by the Fund and
0.009% of the aggregate dollar amount of the Fund's portfolio transactions.
10
<PAGE> 36
SHARES OF BENEFICIAL INTEREST
The Declaration of Trust permits the Trust to issue an unlimited number of
full and fractional shares of beneficial interest, and to divide or combine the
shares into a greater or lesser number of shares without thereby changing the
proportionate beneficial interests in the Trust. If they deem it advisable in
the best interests of shareholders, the Trustees of the Trust may classify or
reclassify any unissued shares of the Trust by setting or changing the
preferences, conversion or other rights, voting powers, restrictions,
limitations as to dividends, qualifications, or terms or conditions of
redemption of the stock. Any changes would be required to comply with any
applicable state and federal securities laws. These currently require that each
series and class be preferred over all other series in respect of assets
specifically allocated to such series and classes. It is anticipated that under
most circumstances, the rights of any additional series or class would be
comparable unless otherwise required to respond to the particular situation.
Upon liquidation of the Trust, shareholders are entitled to share
proportionately in the net assets of their respective series and class of the
Trust available for distribution to such shareholders. No changes can be made to
the Trust's issued shares without shareholder approval.
Each Fund share when issued is fully paid, non-assessable and fully
transferable or redeemable at the shareholder's option. Each share has an equal
interest in the net assets of its class, equal rights to all dividends and other
distributions from its class, and one vote for all purposes. Shares of separate
class vote together for the election of Trustees and have noncumulative voting
rights, meaning that the holders of more than 50% of the shares voting for the
election of Trustees could elect all Trustees if they so choose, and in such
event the holders of the remaining shares could not elect any person to the
Board of Trustees.
The Declaration of Trust further provides that the Trustees will not be
liable for errors of judgment or mistakes of fact or law, but nothing in the
Declaration protects a Trustee against any liability to which he would otherwise
be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence, or
reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his office.
SEC regulations provide that if a series is separately affected by a
matter requiring a vote (election of Trustees, ratification of independent
accountant selection, and approval of an underwriting agreement are not
considered to have such separate effect and may be voted upon by the Trust as a
whole), each such class votes separately. Each class votes separately on such
matters as approval of the Investment Management Agreement and material
amendments to the Plan, which require approval by a majority of the effected
shareholders. For this purpose a "majority" is constituted by either 50% of all
shares voting as a group or 67% of the shares voted as a group at a meeting of
shareholders at which at least 50% of the shares of each group are represented.
11
<PAGE> 37
As of August 31, 1998, the following persons owned of record or
beneficially 5% or more of the Funds outstanding shares:
RESERVE BLUE CHIP GROWTH FUND
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name and Address % of Shares and Class Nature of Ownership
- ---------------- --------------------- -------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Trainer Wortham & Co., Inc. 24.5% Beneficial
845 Third Avenue
New York, NY 10022
Reserve Management Co., Inc. 19.3% Beneficial
810 Seventh Avenue
New York, NY 10019
Arthur T. Bent III 5.0% Beneficial
810 Seventh Avenue
New York, NY 10019
</TABLE>
RESERVE CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES FUND
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name and Address % of Shares and Class Nature of Ownership
- ---------------- --------------------- -------------------
<S> <C> <C>
New Vernon Advisors, Inc. 50.1% Beneficial
310 South Street, P.O. Box
191
Morristown, NJ 07962-1913
William E. Simon Foundation 10.8% Beneficial
Inc.
310 South Street
Morristown, NJ 07962
MCP Investment Associates, 5.8% Beneficial
LLC
270 South Service Road
Melville, NY 11747
</TABLE>
12
<PAGE> 38
RESERVE INFORMED INVESTORS GROWTH FUND
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name and Address % of Shares and Class Nature of Ownership
- ---------------- --------------------- -------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Arthur T. Bent III 12.0% Beneficial
810 Seventh Avenue
New York, NY 10019
Bear Stearns Securities Corp. 10.5% Record
1 Metrotech Center North
Brooklyn, NY 11201-3859
Reserve Management Co., Inc. 8.2% Beneficial
810 Seventh Avenue
New York, NY 10019
Bruce R. Bent 8.0% Beneficial
810 Seventh Avenue
New York, NY 10019
Anna T. Dolan MD PC Pension Plan 5.5% Beneficial
22 Edgecliff Terrace
Yonkers, NY 10705
</TABLE>
RESERVE INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name and Address % of Shares and Class Nature of Ownership
- ---------------- --------------------- -------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Washington Trust Bank TTEE 38.2% Record
P.O. Box 2127
Spokane, WA 99210-2127
Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. 19.4% Record
101 Montgomery St.
San Francisco, CA 94014
Wabanc & Co. 16.3% Beneficial
P.O. Box 2127 Trust Ops
Spokane, WA 99210-2121
</TABLE>
13
<PAGE> 39
RESERVE LARGE-CAP GROWTH FUND
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name and Address % of Shares and Class Nature of Ownership
---------------- --------------------- -------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Taconic Petroleum Corp. 15.0% Beneficial
810 Seventh Avenue
New York, NY 10019
Reserve Management Co., Inc. 7.0% Beneficial
810 Seventh Avenue
New York, NY 10019
Charles Schwab & Co., Inc. 6.5% Record
101 Montgomery St.
San Francisco, CA 94104
Arthur T. Bent III 5.4% Beneficial
810 Seventh Avenue
New York, NY 10019
</TABLE>
RESERVE MID-CAP EQUITY FUND
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name and Address % of Shares and Class Nature of Ownership
- ---------------- --------------------- -------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Reserve Management Co., Inc. 36.0% Beneficial
810 Seventh Avenue
New York, NY 10019
Arthur T. Bent III 9.4% Beneficial
810 Seventh Avenue
New York, NY 10019
Anna T. Dolan MD PC Pension Plan 6.4% Beneficial
22 Edgecliff Terrace
Yonkers, NY 10705
Bear Stearns Securities Corp. 5.2% Record
1 Metrotech Center North
Brooklyn, NY 11201-3859
Bruce R. Bent 5.0% Beneficial
810 Seventh Avenue
New York, NY 10019
</TABLE>
14
<PAGE> 40
RESERVE SMALL-CAP GROWTH FUND
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
Name and Address % of Shares and Class Nature of Ownership
---------------- --------------------- -------------------
<S> <C> <C>
Bear Stearns Securities Corp. 15.7% Record
1 Metrotech Center North
Brooklyn, NY 11201-3859
Reserve Management Co., Inc. 1.3% Beneficial
810 Seventh Avenue
New York, NY 10019
Arthur T. Bent III 10.7% Beneficial
810 Seventh Avenue
New York, NY 10019
Bruce R. Bent 6.6% Beneficial
810 Seventh Avenue
New York, NY 10019
</TABLE>
PURCHASE, REDEMPTION AND PRICING OF SHARES
Redemption payments are normally made by check or wire transfer, but the Trust
may be authorized to make payment of redemptions partly or wholly in kind (that
is, by delivery of portfolio instruments valued at the same time as the
redemption net asset value is determined). The Trust has elected to permit any
shareholder of record to make redemptions wholly in cash to the extent the
shareholder's redemptions in any shareholder of record, any 90-day period do not
exceed the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the net assets of the series. The
election is irrevocable pursuant to rules and regulations under the 1940 Act
unless withdrawal is permitted by order of the SEC. In disposing of such
securities an investor might incur transaction costs and on the date of
disposition might receive an amount less than the NAV of the redemption.
NET ASSET VALUE. Shares are offered at NAV which is calculated for each
Fund and class at the end of each business day (currently 4:00 PM New York time)
that the NYSE is open for trading and on other days there is a sufficient degree
of trading to materially affect the Fund's NAV. The NAV is not calculated on
regional banking holidays or New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day,
Presidents' Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day (observed), Independence Day, Labor
Day, Columbus Day, Veterans Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, or any other
days the NYSE is closed for trading. The NAV per share of each class is
determined by adding the value of all its securities and other assets,
subtracting its liabilities and dividing the result by the total number of
outstanding shares of each class that represent an interest in the Fund.
Investment securities are valued at the last sale price on the securities
exchange or national securities market on which such securities are primarily
traded. Securities not listed on an exchange or national securities market, or
securities in which there were no transactions, are valued at the average of the
last bid and asked prices, except in the case of open short positions where the
asked price is used for valuation purposes. Bid price is used when no asked
price is available. Market quotations for foreign securities in foreign
currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the prevailing rates of exchange.
Any securities or other assets for which recent market quotations are not
readily available are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the
Board of Trustees.
15
<PAGE> 41
EXCHANGE PRIVILEGE: Shares of each RPES Fund may be exchanged for shares in the
Reserve money-market funds and other separate investment portfolios that may be
offered by the Trust at NAV.
SHARE CERTIFICATES: Share certificates are not issued by the Trust.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
Set forth below is a discussion of certain U.S. federal income tax issues
concerning the Funds and the purchase, ownership and disposition of Fund shares.
This discussion does not purport to be complete or to deal with all aspects of
federal income taxation that may be relevant to shareholders in light of their
particular circumstances, nor to certain types of shareholders subject to
special treatment under the federal income tax laws. This discussion is based
upon present provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the
"Code"), the regulations promulgated thereunder and judicial and administrative
rulings, all of which are subject to change which may be retroactive.
Prospective investors should consult their own tax advisors with regard to the
federal tax consequences of the purchase, ownership, or disposition of Fund
shares, as well as the tax consequences arising under the laws of any state,
foreign country, or other taxing jurisdiction.
Each Fund intends to qualify as a regulated investment company under
Subchapter M of the Code so long as such qualification is in the best interests
of shareholders. If it so qualifies, each Fund generally will not be subjected
to federal income tax on distributed amounts. Shareholders of a Fund, however,
will be subject to federal income tax on any ordinary income and net capital
gains realized by the Fund and distributed to shareholders, whether distributed
in cash or in the form of additional shares. Distributions of net capital gains
(the excess of net long-term capital gains over net short-term capital losses),
if any, designated as capital gain dividends may be taxable to individuals and
certain other shareholders at the maximum federal 20% capital gains rates,
depending upon the Fund's holding period for the assets giving rise to the
capital gains, regardless of how long the shareholder has held the Fund's
shares. The maximum 20% capital gains rate generally applies to gains from the
sale of assets held for more than 12 months. Capital gain from the sale of
assets held for one year or less will generally be taxed as ordinary income.
Upon the taxable disposition (including a sale or redemption) of shares of
a Fund, a shareholder may realize a gain or loss depending upon his basis in his
shares. Such gain or loss generally will be treated as capital gain or loss if
the shares are capital assets in the shareholder's hands. Capital gains may be
taxable to individuals and certain other shareholders at the maximum federal 20%
capital gains rate, depending upon the shareholder's holding period for the
shares. However, a loss realized by a shareholder on the disposition of Fund
shares with respect to which capital gain dividends have been paid will, to the
extent of such capital gain dividends, be treated as long-term capital loss if
such shares have been held by the shareholder for six months or less. Further, a
loss realized on disposition will be disallowed to the extent the shares
disposed of are replaced (whether by reinvestment of distributions or otherwise)
within a period of 61 days beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the
shares are disposed of. In such a case, the basis of the shares acquired will be
adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss.
Shareholders receiving distributions in the form of additional shares of a
Fund will have a cost basis for federal income tax purposes in each share
received equal to the NAV of a share of that Fund on the reinvestment date. An
exchange of shares in a Fund for shares of another RPES Fund will be treated as
a taxable sale of the exchanged Fund shares. Accordingly, a shareholder may
recognize a gain or loss for federal income tax purposes depending upon his or
her basis in the Fund shares exchanged. A gain or loss will be treated as a
capital gain or loss if the shares are capital assets in the shareholder's
hands. The shareholder will have a tax basis in the newly acquired Fund shares
equal to the amount invested and will begin a new holding period for federal
income tax purposes.
16
<PAGE> 42
In order to qualify as a "regulated investment company" under the Code,
each of the Funds must, among other things, (i) derive in each taxable year at
least 90% of its gross income from dividends, interest, payments from certain
securities loans, and gains from the sale of stock, securities or foreign
currencies or other income (such as gains from options, futures or forward
contracts) from investing in stock, securities or currencies; and (ii) hold as
of the close of each quarter at least 50% of its assets in certain investments
assets, such as cash, U.S. government securities, securities of other regulated
investment companies and other securities, with such other securities limited
from any issuer to not more than 5% of the value of the Fund's total assets and
10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and hold not more than
25% of the value of the Fund's assets in the securities of any one issuer (other
than U.S. government securities or securities of other regulated investment
companies).
The Code imposes a non-deductible, 4% excise tax on regulated investment
companies that do not distribute to their shareholders in each calendar year an
amount equal to (i) 98% of their calendar year ordinary income; plus 98% of
their capital gain net income (the excess of short- and long-term capital
losses) for the one year period ending October 31. Dividends declared in
October, November or December of any year to shareholders of record on any date
in such a month will be deemed to have been received by the shareholders and
paid by the Fund on December 31 of that year, provided such dividends are paid
during January of the following year.
Dividends to shareholders who are non-resident aliens may be subject to a
U.S. withholding tax at a rate of up to 30% under existing provisions of the
Code applicable to foreign individuals and entities unless a reduced rate of
withholding or a withholding exemption is provided under applicable treaty laws.
Non-resident aliens are urged to consult their own tax adviser concerning the
applicability of the U.S. withholding tax.
Investment by a Fund in zero coupon or other discount debt securities will
result in income to the Fund equal to a portion of the excess of the face value
of the debt securities over their issue price (the "original issue discount")
each year that the securities are held, even though the Fund receives no cash
interest payments. This income is included in determining the amount of income
which a Fund must distribute to maintain its status as a regulated investment
company and to avoid the payment of federal income tax and the 4% excise tax. In
addition, if a Fund invests in certain high-yield original issue discount
securities issued by corporations, a portion of the original issue discount
accruing on any such obligation may be eligible for the deduction for dividends
received by corporations. In such event, dividends of investment company taxable
income received from a Fund by its corporate shareholders to the extent
attributable to such portion of accrued original issue discount, may be eligible
for this deduction for dividends received by corporations if so designated by
the Fund in a written notice to shareholders. Gains derived by a Fund from the
disposition of any market discount bonds (i.e., bonds purchased other than at
original issue, where the face value of the bonds exceeds their purchase price)
held by a Fund will be taxed as ordinary income to the extent of the accrued
market discount of the bonds, unless the Fund elects to include the market
discount in income as it accrues.
The Code includes rules applicable to certain non-equity listed options,
futures contracts, and options on futures contracts which a Fund may write,
purchase or sell. Such options and contracts are classified as Section 1256
contracts under the Code. The character of gain or loss resulting from the sale,
disposition, closing out, expiration or other termination of Section 1256
contracts is generally treated as long-term capital gain or loss to the extent
of 60% thereof and short-term capital gain or loss to the extent of 40% thereof
("60/40 gain or loss"). Such contracts generally are required to be treated as
sold at market value on the last day of such fiscal year and on certain other
dates for federal income tax purposes ("marked-to-market"). Generally, equity
options (options to buy or sell stocks) are not classified as Section 1256
contracts and are not subject to the marked-to-market rule or to 60/40 gain or
loss treatment. Any gains or losses recognized by a Fund from transactions in
equity options generally constitute short-term capital gains or losses. If
equity call options written, or equity put options purchased, by a Fund are
17
<PAGE> 43
exercised, the gain or loss realized on the sale of the underlying securities
may be either short-term or long-term, depending on the holding period of the
securities. In determining the amount of gain or loss, the sales proceeds are
reduced by the premium paid for equity puts or increased by the premium received
for equity calls.
Generally, the hedging transactions undertaken by a Fund may result in
"straddles" for U.S. federal income tax purposes. The straddle rules may affect
the character of gains or losses realized by a Fund. In addition, losses
realized by a Fund on positions that are part of a straddle may be deferred
under the straddle rules, rather than being taken into account in calculating
the taxable income for the taxable year in which the losses are realized.
Because only a few regulations implementing the straddle rules have been
promulgated, the tax consequences to a Fund of engaging in hedging transactions
are not entirely clear. Hedging transactions may increase the amount of
short-term capital gain realized by the Fund which is taxed as ordinary income
when distributed to shareholders. In addition, certain carrying charges
(including interest expense) associated with positions in a straddle may be
required to be capitalized rather than deducted currently.
A Fund may make one or more of the elections available under the Code
which are applicable to straddles. If a Fund makes any of the elections, this
amount, character and timing of gains or losses from the affected straddle
positions will be determined under rules that vary according to the election(s)
made. The rules applicable under certain of the elections may operate to
accelerate the recognition of gains or losses from the affected straddle
positions.
Because the straddle rules may affect the character of gains or losses,
defer losses and/or accelerate the recognition of gains or losses from the
affected straddle position, the amount which may be distributed to shareholder,
and which will be taxed as ordinary income or capital gain, may be increased or
decreased as compared to a fund that did not engage in such hedging
transactions. Recently enacted rules may affect the timing and character of gain
if a Fund engages in transactions that reduce or eliminate its risk of loss with
respect to appreciated financial positions. If a Fund enters into certain
transactions in property while holding substantially identical property, the
Fund would be treated as if it had sold and immediately repurchased the property
and would be taxed on any gain (but not loss) from the constructive sale. The
character of gain from a constructive sale would depend upon the Fund's holding
period in the property. Loss from a constructive sale would be recognized when
the property was subsequently disposed of, and its character would depend on the
Fund's holding period and the application of various loss deferral provisions of
the Code.
Gains or losses attributable to fluctuations in exchange rates which occur
between the time a Fund accrues income or other receivables or accrues expenses
or other liabilities denominated in a foreign currency and the time the Fund
actually collects such receivables or pays such liabilities generally are
treated as ordinary income or ordinary loss. Similarly, on disposition of some
investments, including debt securities and certain forward contracts denominated
in a foreign currency, gains or losses attributable to fluctuations in the value
of the foreign currency between the acquisition and disposition of the position
also are treated as ordinary gain or loss. These gains and losses, referred to
under the Code as "section 988" gains or losses, increase or decrease the amount
of a Fund's investment company taxable income available to be distributed to its
shareholders as ordinary income.
A Fund may be subject to non-U.S. tax on income and gains received from
securities of non-U.S. issuers which generally is withheld by a foreign country
at the source. The U.S. has entered into tax treaties with many foreign
countries which may entitle a Fund to a reduced rate of tax or exemption from
tax on income. It is impossible to determine the effective rate of foreign tax
in advance since the amount of a Fund's assets to be invested within various
countries is not known. The Funds intend to operate so as to qualify for tax
treaty benefits where applicable. To the extent that a Fund is liable for
foreign income taxes withheld at the source, the Fund may operate so as to meet
the requirements of the Code to "pass through" to its shareholders tax benefits
attributable to foreign income taxes paid by the Fund. If more
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than 50% of the value of the Fund's total assets at the close of its taxable
year is comprised of securities issued by foreign corporations, the Fund may
elect to "pass through" to its shareholders the amount of foreign taxes paid by
the Fund. Pursuant to this election shareholders will be required to (i) include
in gross income, even though not actually received, their respective
proportional share of foreign taxes paid by the Fund; (ii) treat their
proportional share of foreign taxes as paid by them; and (iii) subject to
certain limitations, either deduct their proportional share of foreign taxes in
computing their taxable income, or use such share as foreign tax credit against
U.S. income tax (but not both). No deduction for foreign taxes may be claimed by
a non-corporate shareholder who does not itemize deductions. One or more of the
Funds may meet the requirements to "pass through" to its shareholders foreign
income taxes paid, but there can be no assurance that any Fund will do so. Each
shareholder will be notified within 60 days after the close of the taxable year
of the Fund if the foreign taxes paid by the Fund will "pass through" for that
year, and, if so, the amount of each shareholder's proportional share (by
country) of (i) the foreign taxes paid and (ii) the Fund's gross income from
foreign sources. The notice shall also include the amount of foreign taxes not
allowable for "pass through" treatment because of a failure to satisfy certain
requirements imposed under the Code.
A Fund may invest in shares of foreign corporations which may be
classified under the Code as passive foreign investment companies ("PFICs"). In
general, a foreign corporation is classified as a PFIC if at least one-half of
its assets constitute investment-type assets, or 75% or more of its gross income
is investment-type income. If a Fund receives a so-called "excess distribution"
with respect to PFIC stock, the Fund itself may be subject to a tax on a portion
of the excess distribution, whether or not the corresponding income is
distributed by the Fund to shareholders. In general, under the PFIC rules, an
excess distribution is treated as having been realized ratably over the period
during which the Fund held the PFIC shares. The Fund itself will be subject to
tax on the portion, if any, of an excess distribution that is so allocated to
prior Fund taxable years and an interest factor will be added to the tax, as if
the tax had been payable in such prior taxable years. Certain distributions from
a PFIC as well as gain from the sale of PFIC shares are treated as excess
distributions. Excess distributions are characterized as ordinary income even
though, absent application of the PFIC rules, certain excess distributions might
have been classified as capital gain.
A Fund may be eligible to elect alternative tax treatment with respect to
PFIC shares. Under an election that currently is available in some
circumstances, the Fund generally would be required to include in its gross
income its share of the earnings of a PFIC on a current basis, regardless of
whether distributions are received from the PFIC in a given year. If this
election were made, the special rules, discussed above, relating to the taxation
of excess distributions, would not apply. In addition, another election may be
available that would involve marking to market the Fund's PFIC shares at the end
of each taxable year (and on certain other dates prescribed in the Code), with
the result that unrealized gains are treated as though they were realized. If
this election were made, tax at the Fund level under the PFIC rules would
generally be eliminated, but the Fund could, in limited circumstances, incur
nondeductible interest charges.
Because the application of the PFIC rules may affect, among other things,
the character of gains, the amount of gain or loss and the timing of the
recognition of income with respect to PFIC shares, as well as subject a Fund to
tax on certain income from PFIC shares, the amount that must be distributed to
shareholders, and which will be taxed to shareholders as ordinary income or
capital gain, may be increased or decreased as compared to a fund that did not
invest in PFIC shares.
A Fund generally will be required to withhold federal income tax at a rate
of 31% ("backup withholding") from dividends paid, capital gain distributions,
and redemption proceeds to shareholders if (i) the shareholder fails to furnish
the Fund with the shareholder's correct taxpayer identification number or social
security number, (ii) the IRS notifies the shareholder or the Fund that the
shareholder has failed to report properly certain interest and dividend income
to the IRS and to respond to notices to that effect, or
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<PAGE> 45
(iii) when required to do so, the shareholder fails to certify that he or she is
not subject to backup withholding. Any amounts withheld may be credited against
the shareholder's federal income tax liability.
The foregoing is a general summary of certain provisions of the Code and
Treasury Regulations in effect. For the complete provisions, reference should be
made to the pertinent Code sections and Treasury Regulations promulgated
thereunder. The Code and the Treasury Regulations thereunder are subject to
change by legislative or administrative action either prospectively or
retroactively.
Dividends paid by the Fund are generally expected to be subject to any
state or local taxes on income. Shareholders should consult their own attorneys
or tax advisers about the tax consequences related to investing in the Fund.
PERFORMANCE INFORMATION
Each Fund may from time to time advertise its total return. Total return
is computed by finding the average annual compounded rates of return over the 1,
5 and 10 year periods or up to the life of a Fund that would equate the initial
amount invested to the ending redeemable value, according to the following
formula:
P (1+T)n = ERV
Where: P = a hypothetical initial payment of $1,000
T = average annual total return
n = number of years
ERV = ending redeemable value of a hypothetical
$1,000 payment made at the beginning of the
1, 5 or 10 year periods, at the end of the
1, 5 or 10 year periods (or fractional
portion thereof)
In advertising and sales literature, each Fund may compare its performance to
(i) the Standard & Poor's 500 Stock Index, Dow Jones Industrial Average, the
Russell 2000, or other unmanaged indices so that investors may compare each
Fund's results with those of a group of unmanaged securities widely regarded by
investors as representative of the securities markets in general; (ii) other
groups of mutual funds tracked by independent research firms which rank mutual
funds by overall performance, investment objectives and assets, or tracked by
other services, companies, publications, or persons; and (iii) the Consumer
Price Index (measure for inflation) to assess the real rate of return from an
investment in each Fund. Unmanaged indices may assume the reinvestment of
dividends but generally do not reflect deductions for administrative and
management costs and expenses.
Each Fund may also compute aggregate total return for specified periods
based on a hypothetical Fund account with an assumed initial investment of
$10,000. The aggregate total return is determined by dividing the NAV of the
account at the end of the specified period by the value of the initial
investment and is expressed as a percentage. Calculation of aggregate total
return assumes reinvestment of all income dividends and capital gain
distributions during the period.
Each Fund may also quote annual, average annual and annualized total
return and aggregate total performance data both as a percentage and as a dollar
amount based on a hypothetical $10,000 investment for various periods. Such data
will be computed as described above, except that the rates of return calculated
will not be average annual rates, but rather actual annual, annualized or
aggregate rates of return.
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FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
Financial Statements (audited) for the Trust for the fiscal year ended May
31, 1998, including notes thereto, are incorporated by reference in the SAI from
the Trust's Annual Report to Shareholders dated May 31, 1998 filed with the SEC
on July 31, 1998.
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