1940 Act No. 811-7205
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM N-1A
REGISTRATION STATEMENT (No. 33-54837)
UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 [x]
Pre-Effective Amendment No. [ ]
Post-Effective Amendment No. 12 [x]
and
REGISTRATION STATEMENT
UNDER THE INVESTMENT
COMPANY ACT OF 1940 (No. 811-7245) [x]
Amendment No. [x]
Variable Insurance Products Fund III
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)
82 Devonshire St., Boston, MA 02109
(Address Of Principal Executive Office)
Registrant's Telephone Number, Including Area Code 617-563-7000
Eric D. Roiter, Secretary, 82 Devonshire St., Boston, MA 02109
(Name and Address of Agent for Service)
It is proposed that this filing will become effective:
( ) Immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b)
( ) On [ ] pursuant to paragraph (b)
( ) 60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)
( ) On [ ], pursuant to paragraph (a)(1) of Rule 485
( ) 75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)
(x) On December 30, 1998 pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of Rule 485
If appropriate, check the following box:
( ) this post-effective amendment designates a new effective date
for a previously filed post-effective amendment.
VARIABLE INSURANCE PRODUCTS FUND III
MID CAP PORTFOLIO
CROSS REFERENCE SHEET
FORM N-1A
ITEM NUMBER PROSPECTUS SECTION
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
1 .............................. Cover Page
2 a .............................. *
b,c .............................. *
3 a .............................. *
b .............................. *
c .............................. Performance
d .............................. *
4 a i............................. Charter
ii........................... The Fund at a Glance; Investment Principles and
Risks
b .............................. Investment Principles and Risks
c .............................. Who May Want to Invest; Investment Principles
and Risks
5 a .............................. Charter
b i............................. Cover Page; The Fund at a Glance; Charter
ii........................... The Fund at a Glance; Charter
iii.......................... Breakdown of Expenses
c .............................. Charter
d .............................. Charter; Breakdown of Expenses
e .............................. Charter; Breakdown of Expenses
f .............................. Breakdown of Expenses
g i............................. Charter; Breakdown of Expenses
ii............................. *
5A .............................. *
6 a i............................. Charter; Transaction Details
ii........................... Charter; Transaction Details
iii.......................... *
b ............................. Charter
c .............................. *
d .............................. *
e .............................. Cover Page; Transaction Details
f, g .............................. Distributions and Taxes
h .............................. Who May Want to Invest
7 a .............................. Cover Page; Charter
b i, ii.... ................... Transaction Details
iii, iv, v ................. *
c .............................. *
d .............................. *
e .............................. *
f .............................. Breakdown of Expenses
8 a............................. Transaction Details
b, c .... .................. *
d............................ Transaction Details
9 .............................. *
</TABLE>
* Not Applicable
Please read this prospectus before investing, and keep it on file for
future reference. It contains important information, including how the
fund invests and to help you decide if the fund's goal matches your
own.
To learn more about the fund and its investments, you can obtain a
copy of the fund's most recent financial report and portfolio listing,
or a copy of the Statement of Additional Information (SAI) dated
December 30, 1998. The SAI has been filed with the Securities and
Exchange Commission (SEC) and is available along with other related
materials on the SEC's Internet Web site (http://www.sec.gov).The SAI
is incorporated herein by reference (legally forms a part of the
prospectus). For a free copy of either document, call Fidelity at
1-800-544-1916, or your insurance company.
Shares of the fund may be purchased only by the separate accounts of
insurance companies, for the purpose of funding variable annuity and
variable life insurance contracts. The fund may not be available in
your state due to various insurance regulations. Please check with
your insurance company for availability. If the fund in this
prospectus is not available in your state, this prospectus is not to
be considered a solicitation. Please read this prospectus in
conjunction with the prospectus of the separate account of the
specific insurance product that accompanies this prospectus and keep
them on file for future reference.
MUTUAL FUND SHARES ARE NOT DEPOSITS OR OBLIGATIONS OF, OR GUARANTEED
BY, ANY DEPOSITORY INSTITUTION. SHARES ARE NOT INSURED BY THE FDIC,
FEDERAL RESERVE BOARD, OR ANY OTHER AGENCY, AND ARE SUBJECT TO
INVESTMENT RISKS, INCLUDING POSSIBLE LOSS OF PRINCIPAL AMOUNT
INVESTED.
lIKE ALL MUTUAL FUNDS, THESE SECURITIES HAVE NOT
BEEN APPROVED OR DISAPPROVED BY THE SECURITIES
AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION, NOR HAS THE SECURITIES
AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION PASSED UPON THE
ACCURACY OR ADEQUACY OF THIS PROSPECTUS. ANY
REPRESENTATION TO THE CONTRARY IS A CRIMINAL
OFFENSE.
VIPIII-MID-pro-1298
VARIABLE
INSURANCE
PRODUCTS
FUND III
INITIAL CLASS
SERVICE CLASS
Variable Insurance Products Fund III (the Trust) is designed to
provide investment vehicles for variable annuity and variable life
insurance contracts of various insurance companies. Mid Cap Portfolio
is a fund of the Trust.
MID CAP PORTFOLIO seeks to provide long-term growth of capital by
investing primarily in equity securities of companies with medium
market capitalizations.
PROSPECTUS
DECEMBER 30, 1998(FIDELITY_LOGO_GRAPHIC) 82 DEVONSHIRE STREET, BOSTON,
MA 02109
CONTENTS
KEY FACTS 3 THE FUND AT A GLANCE
4 WHO MAY WANT TO INVEST
THE FUND IN DETAIL 4 CHARTER How the fund is organized.
5 INVESTMENT PRINCIPLES AND RISKS The fund's overall
approach to investing.
6 BREAKDOWN OF EXPENSES How operating costs are
calculated and what they include.
7 PERFORMANCE
ACCOUNT POLICIES 8 DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
8 TRANSACTION DETAILS Share price calculations and the
timing of purchases and redemptions.
KEY FACTS
THE FUND AT A GLANCE
Mid Cap Portfolio is designed to provide an investment vehicle for
variable annuity and variable life insurance contracts of various
insurance companies.
MANAGEMENT: Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR) is the
management arm of Fidelity Investments, which was established in 1946
and is now America's largest mutual fund manager. Foreign affiliates
of FMR may help choose investments for the fund.
GOAL: Long-term growth of capital (increase in the value of the fund's
shares).
STRATEGY: Invests mainly in equity securities of companies with medium
market capitalizations.
WHO MAY WANT TO INVEST
The fund is designed for investors who are willing to ride out stock
market fluctuations in pursuit of potentially high long-term returns.
The fund is designed for investors who want to be invested in the
stock market for its long-term growth potential. The fund invests for
growth and does not pursue income.
The value of the fund's investments will vary from day to day, and
generally reflect changes in market conditions, interest rates, and
other company, political, or economic news. In the short-term, stock
prices can fluctuate dramatically in response to these factors. Over
time, however, stocks have shown greater growth potential than other
types of securities. When fund shares are redeemed, they may be worth
more or less than their original cost. By itself, the fund does not
constitute a balanced investment plan.
The fund is composed of multiple classes of shares. All classes of the
fund have a common investment objective and investment portfolio.
Initial Class shares, the original class of shares, are offered at net
asset value and are not subject to a 12b-1 fee. Service Class shares
are offered at net asset value and are subject to a 12b-1 fee. Because
Initial Class shares are not subject to a 12b-1 fee, Initial Class
shares are expected to have a higher total return than Service Class
shares (excluding charges and expenses attributable to any particular
insurance product). Initial Class and Service Class shares are offered
through this prospectus.
THE SPECTRUM OF FIDELITY
FUNDS
Broad categories of Fidelity funds are presented
here in order of ascending risk. Generally,
investors seeking to maximize return must
assume greater risk. Mid Cap Portfolio is in the
GROWTH category.
(solid bullet) MONEY MARKET Seeks income and stability
by investing in high-quality, short-term
investments.
(solid bullet) INCOME Seeks income by investing in bonds.
(solid bullet) ASSET ALLOCATION Seeks high total return with
reduced risk through a mix of stocks, bonds,
and short-term and money market instruments.
(solid bullet) GROWTH AND INCOME Seeks long-term growth
and income by investing in stocks and bonds.
(right arrow) GROWTH Seeks long-term growth by investing
mainly in stocks.
(checkmark)
THE FUND IN DETAIL
CHARTER
MID CAP PORTFOLIO IS A MUTUAL FUND: an investment that pools
shareholders' money and invests it toward a specified goal. The fund
is a diversified fund of Variable Insurance Products Fund III (VIP
III), an open-end management investment company organized as a
Massachusetts business trust on July 14, 1994.
THE FUND IS GOVERNED BY A BOARD OF TRUSTEES which is responsible for
protecting the interests of shareholders. The trustees are experienced
executives who meet periodically throughout the year to oversee the
fund's activities, review contractual arrangements with companies that
provide services to the fund, and review the fund's performance. The
trustees serve as trustees for other Fidelity funds. The majority of
trustees are not otherwise affiliated with Fidelity.
THE FUND MAY HOLD SPECIAL SHAREHOLDER MEETINGS AND MAIL PROXY
MATERIALS. These meetings may be called to elect or remove trustees,
change fundamental policies, approve a management contract, or for
other purposes. Shareholders not attending these meetings are
encouraged to vote by proxy. An insurance company issuing a variable
contract that participates in the fund will vote shares held in its
separate account as required by law and interpretations thereof, as
may be amended or changed from time to time. In accordance with
current law and interpretations thereof, a participating insurance
company is required to request voting instructions from policyowners
and must vote shares in the separate account in proportion to the
voting instructions received. The number of votes your insurance
company is entitled to is based upon the dollar value of its
investment. For a further discussion, please refer to your insurance
company's separate account prospectus.
Separate votes are taken by each class of shares, fund, or trust, if a
matter affects just that class of shares, fund, or trust,
respectively.
FMR AND ITS AFFILIATES
Fidelity Investments is one of the largest investment management
organizations in the United States and has its principal business
address at 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109. It
includes a number of different subsidiaries and divisions which
provide a variety of financial services and products. The fund employs
various Fidelity companies to perform activities required for its
operation.
The fund is managed by FMR, which chooses the fund's investments and
handles its business affairs. Fidelity Management & Research (U.K.)
Inc. (FMR U.K.), in London, England, and Fidelity Management &
Research (Far East) Inc. (FMR Far East), in Tokyo, Japan, assist FMR
with foreign investments.
Katherine Collins is manager of VIP III Mid Cap Portfolio, which she
has managed since December 1998. She also manages another Fidelity
fund. Since joining Fidelity in 1990, Ms. Collins has worked as an
analyst and manager.
The fund has an investment objective similar to that of an existing
Fidelity fund. The fund's objective is most similar to that of
Fidelity Advisor Mid Cap Fund. The performance of a separate account
investing in the fund is not expected to be the same as the
performance of the fund due in part to dissimilarities in their
investments. Various insurance-related costs at the insurance
company's separate account will also affect performance.
The fund sells its shares to separate accounts of insurance companies
that are both affiliated and unaffiliated with FMR. The fund currently
does not foresee any disadvantages to policyowners arising out of the
fact that the fund offers its shares to separate accounts of various
insurance companies to serve as the investment medium for their
variable products. Nevertheless, the Board of Trustees intends to
monitor events in order to identify any material irreconcilable
conflicts which may possibly arise, and to determine what action, if
any, should be taken in response to such conflicts. If such a conflict
were to arise, one or more insurance companies' separate accounts
might be required to withdraw its investments in the fund and shares
of another fund may be substituted. This might force the fund to sell
securities at disadvantageous prices. In addition, the Board of
Trustees may refuse to sell shares of the fund to any separate account
or may suspend or terminate the offering of shares of the fund if such
action is required by law or regulatory authority or is in the best
interests of the shareholders of the fund.
(checkmark)
FIDELITY FACTS
Fidelity offers the broadest selection of mutual
funds in the world.
(solid bullet) Number of Fidelity mutual funds: over
(solid bullet) Assets in Fidelity mutual funds: over $
billion
(solid bullet) Number of shareholder accounts: over
million
(solid bullet) Number of investment analysts and portfolio
managers: over
Fidelity investment personnel may invest in securities for their own
accounts pursuant to a code of ethics that establishes procedures for
personal investing and restricts certain transactions.
Fidelity Distributors Corporation (FDC) distributes and markets
Fidelity's funds and services.
Fidelity Investments Institutional Operations Company, Inc. (FIIOC)
performs transfer agent servicing functions for each class of the
fund.
FMR Corp. is the ultimate parent company of FMR, FMR U.K., and FMR Far
East. Members of the Edward C. Johnson 3d family are the predominant
owners of a class of shares of common stock representing approximately
49% of the voting power of FMR Corp. Under the Investment Company Act
of 1940 (the 1940 Act), control of a company is presumed where one
individual or group of individuals owns more than 25% of the voting
stock of that company; therefore, the Johnson family may be deemed
under the 1940 Act to form a controlling group with respect to FMR
Corp.
FMR may allocate brokerage transactions to its broker-dealer
affiliates and in a manner that takes into account the sale of the
shares of Fidelity's variable insurance funds, provided that the fund
receives brokerage services and commission rates comparable to those
of other broker-dealers.
INVESTMENT PRINCIPLES AND RISKS
The fund seeks long-term growth of capital by investing primarily in
equity securities of companies with medium market capitalizations. FMR
normally invests at least 65% of the fund's total assets in these
securities. The fund has the flexibility, however, to invest the
balance in other market capitalizations and security types.
Medium market capitalization companies are those whose market
capitalization is similar to the market capitalization of companies in
the S&P MidCap 400 at the time of the fund's investment. Companies
whose capitalization no longer meets this definition after purchase
continue to be considered medium-capitalized for purposes of the 65%
policy. As of July 31, 1998, the S&P MidCap 400 included companies
with capitalizations between $310 million and $31.2 billion. S&P Mid
Cap 400 Index is an unmanaged index of medium capitalization stocks.
The size of companies in the S&P MidCap 400 changes with market
conditions and the composition of the index.
Investing in medium capitalization stocks may involve greater risk
than investing in large capitalization stocks, because they can be
subject to more abrupt or erratic movements. However, they tend to
involve less risk than stocks of small capitalization companies.
The value of the fund's domestic and foreign investments varies in
response to many factors. Stock values fluctuate in response to the
activities of individual companies and general market and economic
conditions. Investments in foreign securities may involve risks in
addition to those of U.S. investments, including increased political
and economic risk, as well as exposure to currency fluctuations.
FMR may use various investment techniques to hedge a portion of the
fund's risks, but there is no guarantee that these strategies will
work as FMR intends. Also, as a mutual fund, the fund seeks to spread
investment risk by diversifying its holdings among many companies and
industries. Of course, when fund shares are redeemed, they may be
worth more or less than their original cost.
FMR normally invests the fund's assets according to its investment
strategy. The fund also reserves the right to invest without
limitation in preferred stocks and investment-grade debt instruments
for temporary, defensive purposes.
SECURITIES AND INVESTMENT PRACTICES
The following pages contain more detailed information about types of
instruments in which the fund may invest, strategies FMR may employ in
pursuit of the fund's investment objective, and a summary of related
risks. Any restrictions listed supplement those discussed earlier in
this section. A complete listing of the fund's limitations and more
detailed information about the fund's investments are contained in the
fund's SAI. Policies and limitations are considered at the time of
purchase; the sale of instruments is not required in the event of a
subsequent change in circumstances.
FMR may not buy all of these instruments or use all of these
techniques unless it believes that they are consistent with the fund's
investment objective and policies and that doing so will help the fund
achieve its goal. Fund holdings and recent investment strategies are
detailed in the fund's financial reports, which are sent to
shareholders twice a year. For a free SAI or financial report, contact
your insurance company.
EQUITY SECURITIES may include common stocks, preferred stocks,
convertible securities, and warrants. Common stocks, the most familiar
type, represent an equity (ownership) interest in a corporation.
Although equity securities have a history of long-term growth in
value, their prices fluctuate based on changes in a company's
financial condition and on overall market and economic conditions.
Smaller companies are especially sensitive to these factors.
RESTRICTIONS: With respect to 75% of its total assets, the fund may
not purchase more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of a
single issuer. This limitation does not apply to securities of other
investment companies.
DEBT SECURITIES. Bonds and other debt instruments are used by issuers
to borrow money from investors. The issuer generally pays the investor
a fixed, variable, or floating rate of interest, and must repay the
amount borrowed at maturity. Some debt securities, such as zero coupon
bonds, do not pay current interest, but are sold at a discount from
their face values.
Debt securities have varying levels of sensitivity to changes in
interest rates and varying degrees of credit quality. In general, bond
prices rise when interest rates fall, and fall when interest rates
rise. Longer-term bonds and zero coupon bonds are generally more
sensitive to interest rate changes.
Lower-quality debt securities (sometimes called "junk bonds") are
considered to have speculative characteristics and involve greater
risk of default or price changes due to changes in the issuer's
creditworthiness, or they may already be in default. The market prices
of these securities may fluctuate more than higher-quality securities
and may decline significantly in periods of general or regional
economic difficulty.
RESTRICTIONS: Purchase of a debt security is consistent with the
fund's debt quality policy if it is rated at or above the stated level
by Moody's Investors Service (Moody's) or rated in the equivalent
categories by Standard & Poor's (S&P), or is unrated but judged to be
of equivalent quality by FMR. The fund currently intends to limit its
investments in lower than Baa-quality debt securities to less than 35%
of its assets.
EXPOSURE TO FOREIGN MARKETS. Foreign securities, foreign currencies,
and securities issued by U.S. entities with substantial foreign
operations may involve additional risks and considerations. These
include risks relating to political, economic, or regulatory
conditions in foreign countries; fluctuations in foreign currencies;
withholding or other taxes; trading, settlement, custodial, and other
operational risks; and the potentially less stringent investor
protection and disclosure standards of foreign markets. Additionally,
governmental issuers of foreign debt securities may be unwilling to
pay interest and repay principal when due, and may require that the
conditions for payment be renegotiated. All of these factors can make
foreign investments, especially those in emerging markets, more
volatile and potentially less liquid than U.S. investments.
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS. In a repurchase agreement, the fund buys a
security at one price and simultaneously agrees to sell it back at a
higher price. Delays or losses could result if the other party to the
agreement defaults or becomes insolvent.
ADJUSTING INVESTMENT EXPOSURE. The fund can use various techniques to
increase or decrease its exposure to changing security prices,
interest rates, currency exchange rates, commodity prices, or other
factors that affect security values. These techniques may involve
derivative transactions such as buying and selling options and futures
contracts, entering into currency exchange contracts or swap
agreements, and purchasing indexed securities.
FMR can use these practices to adjust the risk and return
characteristics of the fund's portfolio of investments. If FMR judges
market conditions incorrectly or employs a strategy that does not
correlate well with the fund's investments, these techniques could
result in a loss, regardless of whether the intent was to reduce risk
or increase return. These techniques may increase the volatility of
the fund and may involve a small investment of cash relative to the
magnitude of the risk assumed. In addition, these techniques could
result in a loss if the counterparty to the transaction does not
perform as promised.
ILLIQUID AND RESTRICTED SECURITIES. Some investments may be determined
by FMR, under the supervision of the Board of Trustees, to be
illiquid, which means that they may be difficult to sell promptly at
an acceptable price. The sale of some illiquid securities, and some
other securities, may be subject to legal restrictions. Difficulty in
selling securities may result in a loss or may be costly to the fund.
RESTRICTIONS: The fund may not purchase a security if, as a result,
more than 10% of its assets would be invested in illiquid securities.
OTHER INSTRUMENTS may include securities of closed-end investment
companies and real estate-related instruments.
CASH MANAGEMENT. The fund may invest in money market securities, in
repurchase agreements, and in a money market fund available only to
funds and accounts managed by FMR or its affiliates, whose goal is to
seek a high level of current income while maintaining a stable $1.00
share price. A major change in interest rates or a default on the
money market fund's investments could cause its share price to change.
DIVERSIFICATION. Diversifying a fund's investment portfolio can reduce
the risks of investing. This may include limiting the amount of money
invested in any one issuer or, on a broader scale, in any one
industry.
RESTRICTIONS: With respect to 75% of its total assets, the fund may
not purchase a security if, as a result, more than 5% would be
invested in the securities of any one issuer. This limitation does not
apply to U.S. Government securities or to securities of other
investment companies.
The fund may not invest more than 25% of its total assets in any one
industry. This limitation does not apply to U.S. Government
securities.
BORROWING. The fund may borrow from banks or from other funds advised
by FMR or its affiliates, or through reverse repurchase agreements. If
the fund borrows money, its share price may be subject to greater
fluctuation until the borrowing is paid off. If the fund makes
additional investments while borrowings are outstanding, this may be
considered a form of leverage.
RESTRICTIONS: The fund may borrow only for temporary or emergency
purposes, but not in an amount exceeding 331/3% of its total assets.
LENDING securities to broker-dealers and institutions, including
Fidelity Brokerage Services, Inc. (FBSI), an affiliate of FMR, is a
means of earning income. This practice could result in a loss or a
delay in recovering the fund's securities. The fund may also lend
money to other funds advised by FMR.
RESTRICTIONS: Loans, in the aggregate, may not exceed 331/3% of the
fund's total assets.
INTERNAL REVENUE SERVICE (IRS) LIMITATIONS. In addition to the above,
the fund also follows certain limitations imposed by the IRS on
separate accounts of insurance companies relating to the tax-deferred
status of variable contracts. More specific information may be
contained in your insurance company's separate account prospectus.
FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT POLICIES AND RESTRICTIONS
Some of the policies and restrictions discussed on the preceding pages
are fundamental, that is, subject to change only by shareholder
approval. The following paragraphs restate all those that are
fundamental. All policies stated throughout this prospectus, other
than those identified in the following paragraphs, can be changed
without shareholder approval.
The fund seeks long-term growth of capital.
With respect to 75% of its total assets, the fund may not purchase a
security if, as a result, more than 5% would be invested in the
securities of any one issuer and may not purchase more than 10% of the
outstanding voting securities of a single issuer. These limitations do
not apply to U.S. Government securities or to securities of other
investment companies.
The fund may not invest more than 25% of its total assets in any one
industry. This limitation does not apply to U.S. Government
securities.
The fund may borrow only for temporary or emergency purposes, but not
in an amount exceeding 331/3% of its total assets.
Loans, in the aggregate, may not exceed 33% of the fund's total
assets.
BREAKDOWN OF EXPENSES
Like all mutual funds, the fund pays fees related to its daily
operations. Expenses paid out of each Class's assets are reflected in
that class's share price.
The fund pays a MANAGEMENT FEE to FMR for managing its investments and
business affairs. FMR in turn pays fees to affiliates who provide
assistance with these services. The fund also pays OTHER EXPENSES,
which are explained below.
FMR may, from time to time, agree to reimburse the fund for management
fees and other expenses above a specified limit. FMR retains the
ability to be repaid by the fund if expenses fall below the specified
limit prior to the end of the fiscal year. Reimbursement arrangements,
which may be terminated at any time without notice, can decrease the
fund's expenses and boost its performance.
MANAGEMENT FEE
The management fee is calculated and paid to FMR every month. The fee
is calculated by adding a group fee rate to an individual fund fee
rate, dividing by twelve, and multiplying the result by the fund's
monthly average net assets throughout the month.
The group fee rate is based on the average net assets of all the
mutual funds advised by FMR. This rate cannot rise above 0.52%, and it
drops as total assets under management increase.
For November 1998, the group fee rate was ___%. The individual fund
fee rate is 0.30%.
FMR HAS SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENTS with FMR U.K. and FMR Far East. These
sub-advisers provide FMR with investment research and advice on
issuers based outside the United States. Under the sub-advisory
agreements, FMR pays FMR U.K. and FMR Far East fees equal to 110% and
105%, respectively, of the costs of providing these services.
The sub-advisers may also provide investment management services. In
return, FMR pays FMR U.K. and FMR Far East a fee equal to 50% of its
management fee rate with respect to the fund's investments that the
sub-adviser manages on a discretionary basis.
OTHER EXPENSES
While the management fee is a significant component of the fund's
annual operating costs, the fund has other expenses as well.
FIIOC performs transfer agency, dividend disbursing, and shareholder
servicing functions for Initial Class and Service Class of the fund.
Fidelity Service Company, Inc. (FSC) calculates the net asset value
per share (NAV) and dividends of the fund, maintains the fund's
general accounting records, and administers the fund's securities
lending program.
The fund has entered into arrangements with its custodian whereby
credits realized as a result of uninvested cash balances may be used
to reduce custodian expenses.
Effective _________ FMR has voluntarily agreed to reimburse the fund
to the extent that total operating expenses (excluding interest,
taxes, brokerage commissions, and extraordinary expenses), as a
percentage of its average net assets, exceed 1.00% for Initial Class
shares and 1.10% for Service Class shares.
The fund also pays other expenses, such as legal, audit, and custodian
fees; in some instances, proxy solicitation costs; and the
compensation of trustees who are not affiliated with Fidelity. A
broker-dealer may use a portion of the commissions paid by the fund to
reduce the fund's custodian or transfer agent fees.
For Initial Class shares, the fund has adopted a DISTRIBUTION AND
SERVICE PLAN. This Plan recognizes that FMR may use its management fee
revenues, as well as its past profits or its resources from any other
source, to pay FDC for expenses incurred in connection with the
distribution of Initial Class shares. FMR, directly or through FDC,
may make payments to third parties, such as banks or broker-dealers,
that engage in the sale of, or provide shareholder support services
for, Initial Class shares. Currently, the Board of Trustees has
authorized such payments.
For Service Class shares, the fund has adopted a DISTRIBUTION AND
SERVICE PLAN. Under the plan, Service Class of the fund is authorized
to pay FDC (for remittance quarterly to an insurance company) a 12b-1
fee as compensation for its services and expenses in connection with
the distribution of Service Class shares. Depending on an insurance
company's corporate structure and applicable state law, FDC may remit
payments to the insurance company's affiliated broker-dealer or other
affiliated company, rather than to the insurance company itself.
Under the plan for Service Class, the fund may pay FDC a 12b-1 fee at
an annual rate of 0.25% of its average net assets, or such lesser
amount as the Trustees may determine from time to time. Service Class
of the fund currently pays FDC a 12b-1 fee at an annual rate of 0.10%
of its average net assets throughout the month. Service Class 12b-1
fee rates may be increased only when the Trustees believe that it is
in the best interests of Variable Product owners to do so. (For
purposes of this discussion, "Variable Product" refers to a variable
annuity contract or variable life insurance policy for which shares of
the funds are available as underlying investment options.)
Up to the full amount of the Service Class 12b-1 fee may be reallowed
to insurance companies as compensation for their services in
connection with the distribution of Service Class shares and for
providing support services to Variable Product owners, based upon the
level of such services provided. These services may include, without
limitation: answering questions about the funds from Variable Product
owners; receiving and answering correspondence from Variable Product
owners (including requests for prospectuses and statements of
additional information for the funds); performing sub-accounting with
respect to Variable Product values allocated to the funds; preparing,
printing and distributing reports of values to Variable Product owners
who have contract values allocated to the funds; printing and
distributing prospectuses, statements of additional information, any
supplements thereto, and shareholder reports; preparing, printing and
distributing marketing materials for Variable Products; assisting
customers in completing applications for Variable Products and
selecting underlying mutual fund investment options; preparing,
printing and distributing sub-account performance figures for
sub-accounts investing in fund shares; and providing other reasonable
assistance in connection with the distribution of fund shares to
insurers.
The Service Class plan specifically recognizes that FMR may make
payments from its management fee revenue, past profits, or other
resources to FDC for expenses incurred in connection with the
distribution of Service Class shares, including payments made to
insurance companies and others that provide shareholder support
services or engage in the sale of Service Class shares. The Board of
Trustees of the fund has authorized such payments.
The fund's portfolio turnover rate varies from year to year. High
turnover rates increase transaction costs and may increase capital
gains. FMR considers these effects when evaluating the anticipated
benefits of short-term investing.
PERFORMANCE
The fund's total return may be quoted in advertising in accordance
with current law and interpretations thereof.
EXPLANATION OF TERMS
TOTAL RETURN is the change in value of an investment over a given
period, assuming reinvestment of any dividends and capital gains. A
CUMULATIVE TOTAL RETURN reflects actual performance over a stated
period of time. An AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN is a hypothetical rate
of return that, if achieved annually, would have produced the same
cumulative total return if performance had been constant over the
entire period. Average annual total returns smooth out variations in
performance; they are not the same as actual year-by-year results.
Other illustrations of fund performance may show moving averages over
specified periods.
The fund's recent strategies, performance, and holdings are detailed
twice a year in financial reports, which are sent to all shareholders.
For additional performance information, contact your insurance company
for a free annual report.
TOTAL RETURNS QUOTED FOR A CLASS INCLUDE THE CLASS'S EXPENSES, BUT MAY
NOT INCLUDE CHARGES AND EXPENSES ATTRIBUTABLE TO ANY PARTICULAR
INSURANCE PRODUCT. BECAUSE SHARES OF THE FUND MAY BE PURCHASED ONLY
THROUGH VARIABLE ANNUITY AND VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE CONTRACTS, YOU
SHOULD CAREFULLY REVIEW THE PROSPECTUS OF THE INSURANCE PRODUCT YOU
HAVE CHOSEN FOR INFORMATION ON RELEVANT CHARGES AND EXPENSES.
Excluding these charges from quotations of a class's performance has
the effect of increasing the performance quoted. You should bear in
mind the effect of these charges when comparing the fund's performance
to that of other mutual funds.
TOTAL RETURNS ARE BASED ON PAST RESULTS AND ARE NOT AN INDICATION OF
FUTURE PERFORMANCE.
ACCOUNT POLICIES
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
For a discussion of the tax status of your variable insurance
contract, refer to the prospectus of your insurance company's separate
account. It is suggested you keep all statements you receive to assist
in your personal recordkeeping.
It is expected that shares of the fund will be held under the terms of
variable annuity and variable life insurance contracts. Under current
tax law, dividend or capital gain distributions from the fund are not
currently taxable when left to accumulate within a variable annuity or
variable life insurance contract. Depending on the variable contract,
withdrawals from the contract may be subject to ordinary income tax
and, in addition, to a 10% penalty tax on withdrawals before age 59.
The fund is treated as a separate entity for federal income tax
purposes. The fund intends to pay out all of its net investment income
and net realized capital gains, if any, for each year. Any dividends
from the fund will be distributed at least annually. Normally, net
realized capital gains, if any, are distributed each year for the
fund. Such income and capital gain distributions from the fund are
automatically reinvested in additional shares of the same class of the
fund. The fund makes dividend and capital gain distributions on a
per-share basis for each class. After each distribution from the fund,
the fund's share price drops by the amount of the distribution.
Because dividend and capital gain distributions are reinvested, the
total value of an account will not be affected because, although the
shares will have a lower price, there will be correspondingly more of
them.
TRANSACTION DETAILS
THE FUND IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS each day the New York Stock Exchange
(NYSE) is open. FSC normally calculates each class's NAV as of the
close of business of the NYSE, normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time.
A CLASS'S NAV is the value of a single share. The NAV of each class is
computed by adding that class's pro rata share of the value of the
fund's investments, cash, and other assets, subtracting that class's
pro rata share of the value of the fund's liabilities, subtracting the
liabilities allocated to that class, and dividing the result by the
number of shares of that class that are outstanding.
The fund's assets are valued primarily on the basis of market
quotations. Short-term securities with remaining maturities of sixty
days or less for which quotations are not readily available are valued
on the basis of amortized cost. This method minimizes the effect of
changes in a security's market value. Foreign securities are valued on
the basis of quotations from the primary market in which they are
traded, and are translated from the local currency into U.S. dollars
using current exchange rates. In addition, if quotations are not
readily available, or if the values have been materially affected by
events occurring after the closing of a foreign market, assets may be
valued by another method that the Board of Trustees believes
accurately reflects fair value.
A CLASS'S OFFERING PRICE (price to buy one share) is its NAV. A
class's REDEMPTION PRICE (price to sell one share) is its NAV.
THE FUND RESERVES THE RIGHT to suspend the offering of shares for a
period of time. The fund also reserves the right to reject any
specific purchase order. Purchase orders may be refused if, in FMR's
opinion, they would disrupt management of the fund.
INVESTMENTS AND REDEMPTIONS. Investments may be made only by separate
accounts established and maintained by insurance companies for the
purpose of funding variable annuity and variable life insurance
contracts. Please refer to the prospectus of your insurance company's
separate account for information on how to invest in and redeem from
the fund.
Each participating insurance company receives orders from its variable
contract owners to purchase or redeem shares of the fund each business
day. That night, all orders received by that insurance company on that
business day are aggregated, and the insurance company places a net
purchase or redemption order for shares of the fund the morning of the
next business day. These orders are generally executed at the NAV that
was computed at the close of the previous business day in order to
provide a match between the variable contract owners' orders to the
insurance companies and the insurance companies' orders to the fund.
In some cases, an insurance company's order for fund shares may be
executed at the NAV next computed after the order is actually
transmitted to the fund.
Redemption proceeds will normally be wired to the insurance company on
the next business day after receipt of the redemption instructions by
the fund, but in no event later than 7 days following receipt of
instructions. The fund may suspend redemptions or postpone payment
dates on days when the NYSE is closed (other than weekends or
holidays), when trading on the NYSE is restricted, or as permitted by
the SEC.
This prospectus is printed on recycled paper using soy-based inks.
VARIABLE INSURANCE PRODUCTS FUND III
MID CAP PORTFOLIO
CROSS REFERENCE SHEET
FORM N-1A
ITEM NUMBER STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION SECTION
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
10, 11 ............................ Cover Page
12 ............................ Description of the Trust
13 a - c ............................ Investment Policies and Limitations
d ............................ *
14 a - c ............................ Trustees and Officers
15 a, b ............................ FMR
c ............................ *
16 a i ............................ FMR; Portfolio Transactions
ii ............................ Trustees and Officers
iii ............................ Management Contract
b ............................ Management Contract
c, d ............................ Contracts with FMR Affiliates
e ............................ *
f ............................ Distribution and Service Plans
g ............................ *
h ............................ Description of the Trust
i ............................ Contracts with FMR Affiliates
17 a - c ............................ Portfolio Transactions
d, e ............................ *
18 a ............................ Description of the Trust
b ............................ *
19 a ............................ Additional Purchase and Redemption Information
b ............................ Valuation
c ............................ *
20 ............................ Distributions and Taxes
21 a i, ii ............................ Contracts with FMR Affiliates
a iii ............................ *
b, c ............................ *
22 a ............................ *
b ............................ Performance
23 ............................ *
</TABLE>
* Not Applicable
VARIABLE INSURANCE PRODUCTS FUND III:
MID CAP PORTFOLIO
INITIAL CLASS AND SERVICE CLASS
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
DECEMBER 30, 1998
This Statement of Additional Information (SAI) is not a prospectus but
should be read in conjunction with the fund's current Prospectus
(dated December 30, 1998) for Initial Class and Service Class shares.
Please retain this document for future reference. To obtain a free
additional copy of a Prospectus or an Annual Report, please call
Fidelity at 1-800-544-1916, or your insurance company.
TABLE OF CONTENTS PAGE
Investment Policies and Limitations 11
Portfolio Transactions 16
Valuation 17
Performance 17
Additional Purchase and Redemption Information 18
Distributions and Taxes 18
FMR 19
Trustees and Officers 19
Management Contract 31
Distribution and Service Plans 22
Contracts with FMR Affiliates 23
Description of the Trust 23
Appendix 24
INVESTMENT ADVISER
Fidelity Management & Research Company (FMR)
INVESTMENT SUB-ADVISERS
Fidelity Management & Research (U.K.) Inc. (FMR U.K.)
Fidelity Management & Research (Far East) Inc. (FMR Far East)
DISTRIBUTOR
Fidelity Distributors Corporation (FDC)
TRANSFER AGENT
Fidelity Investments Institutional Operations Company, Inc. (FIIOC)
CUSTODIAN
Brown Brothers Harriman & Co.
VIPIII-MC-ptb-1298
INVESTMENT POLICIES AND LIMITATIONS
The following policies and limitations supplement those set forth in
the Prospectus. Unless otherwise noted, whenever an investment policy
or limitation states a maximum percentage of the fund's assets that
may be invested in any security or other asset, or sets forth a policy
regarding quality standards, such standard or percentage limitation
will be determined immediately after and as a result of the fund's
acquisition of such security or other asset. Accordingly, any
subsequent change in values, net assets, or other circumstances will
not be considered when determining whether the investment complies
with the fund's investment policies and limitations.
The fund's fundamental investment policies and limitations cannot be
changed without approval by a "majority of the outstanding voting
securities" (as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the
1940 Act)) of the fund. However, except for the fundamental investment
limitations listed below, the investment policies and limitations
described in this SAI are not fundamental and may be changed without
shareholder approval.
THE FOLLOWING ARE THE FUND'S FUNDAMENTAL INVESTMENT LIMITATIONS SET
FORTH IN THEIR ENTIRETY. THE FUND MAY NOT:
(1) with respect to 75% of the fund's total assets, purchase the
securities of any issuer (other than securities issued or guaranteed
by the U.S. Government or any of its agencies or instrumentalities, or
securities of other investment companies) if, as a result, (a) more
than 5% of the fund's total assets would be invested in the securities
of that issuer, or (b) the fund would hold more than 10% of the
outstanding voting securities of that issuer;
(2) issue senior securities, except as permitted under the Investment
Company Act of 1940;
(3) borrow money, except that the fund (i) may borrow money for
temporary or emergency purposes (not for leveraging or investment) or
(ii) engage in reverse repurchase agreements, provided that (i) and
(ii) in combination (borrowings) do not exceed 33 1/3% of its total
assets (including the amount borrowed) less liabilities (other than
borrowings). Any borrowings that come to exceed 33 1/3% of the value
of the fund's total assets by reason of a decline in net assets will
be reduced within three days (exclusive of Sundays and holidays) to
the extent necessary to comply with the 33 1/3% limitation;
(4) underwrite securities issued by others, except to the extent that
the fund may be considered an underwriter within the meaning of the
Securities Act of 1933 in the disposition of restricted securities;
(5) purchase the securities of any issuer (other than securities
issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or any of its agencies or
instrumentalities) if, as a result, more than 25% of its total assets
would be invested in the securities of companies whose principal
business activities are in the same industry;
(6) purchase or sell real estate unless acquired as a result of
ownership of securities or other instruments (but this shall not
prevent the fund from investing in securities or other instruments
backed by real estate or securities of companies engaged in the real
estate business);
(7) purchase or sell physical commodities unless acquired as a result
of ownership of securities or other instruments (but this shall not
prevent the fund from purchasing or selling options and futures
contracts or from investing in securities or other instruments backed
by physical commodities); or
(8) lend any security or make any other loan if, as a result, more
than 33 1/3% of its total assets would be lent to other parties, but
this limitation does not apply to purchases of debt securities or to
repurchase agreements.
(9) The fund may, notwithstanding any other fundamental investment
policy or limitation, invest all of its assets in the securities of a
single open-end management investment company managed by Fidelity
Management & Research Company or an affiliate or successor with
substantially the same fundamental investment objective, policies, and
limitations as the fund.
THE FOLLOWING INVESTMENT LIMITATIONS FOR THE FUND ARE NOT FUNDAMENTAL
AND MAY BE CHANGED, AS REGULATORY AGENCIES PERMIT, WITHOUT SHAREHOLDER
APPROVAL.
(i) The fund does not currently intend to sell securities short,
unless it owns or has the right to obtain securities equivalent in
kind and amount to the securities sold short, and provided that
transactions in futures contracts and options are not deemed to
constitute selling securities short.
(ii) The fund does not currently intend to purchase securities on
margin, except that the fund may obtain such short-term credits as are
necessary for the clearance of transactions, and provided that margin
payments in connection with futures contracts and options on futures
contracts shall not constitute purchasing securities on margin.
(iii) The fund may borrow money only (a) from a bank or from a
registered investment company or portfolio for which FMR or an
affiliate serves as investment adviser or (b) by engaging in reverse
repurchase agreements with any party (reverse repurchase agreements
are treated as borrowings for purposes of fundamental investment
limitation (3)). The fund will not borrow from other funds advised by
FMR or its affiliates if total outstanding borrowings immediately
after such borrowing would exceed 15% of the fund's total assets.
(iv) The fund does not currently intend to purchase any security if,
as a result, more than 10% of its net assets would be invested in
securities that are deemed to be illiquid because they are subject to
legal or contractual restrictions on resale or because they cannot be
sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business at
approximately the prices at which they are valued.
(v) The fund does not currently intend to lend assets other than
securities to other parties, except by: (a) lending money (up to 5% of
the fund's net assets) to a registered investment company or portfolio
for which FMR or an affiliate serves as investment adviser or (b)
acquiring loans, loan participations, or other forms of direct debt
instruments and, in connection therewith, assuming any associated
unfunded commitments of the sellers. (This limitation does not apply
to purchases of debt securities or to repurchase agreements.)
(vi) The fund does not currently intend to invest in oil, gas, or
other mineral exploration or development programs or leases.
With respect to limitation (iv), if through a change in values, net
assets, or other circumstances, the fund were in a position where more
than 10% of its net assets was invested in illiquid securities, it
would consider appropriate steps to protect liquidity.
For the fund's limitations on futures and options transactions, see
the section entitled "Limitations on Futures and Options Transactions"
on page 21.
THE FOLLOWING PAGES CONTAIN MORE DETAILED INFORMATION ABOUT TYPES OF
INSTRUMENTS IN WHICH THE FUND MAY INVEST, STRATEGIES FMR MAY EMPLOY IN
PURSUIT OF THE FUND'S INVESTMENT OBJECTIVE, AND A SUMMARY OF RELATED
RISKS. FMR MAY NOT BUY ALL OF THESE INSTRUMENTS OR USE ALL OF THESE
TECHNIQUES UNLESS IT BELIEVES THAT DOING SO WILL HELP THE FUND ACHIEVE
ITS GOAL.
AFFILIATED BANK TRANSACTIONS. A fund may engage in transactions with
financial institutions that are, or may be considered to be,
"affiliated persons" of the fund under the 1940 Act. These
transactions may involve repurchase agreements with custodian banks;
short-term obligations of, and repurchase agreements with, the 50
largest U.S. banks (measured by deposits); municipal securities; U.S.
Government securities with affiliated financial institutions that are
primary dealers in these securities; short-term currency transactions;
and short-term borrowings. In accordance with exemptive orders issued
by the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), the Board of Trustees
has established and periodically reviews procedures applicable to
transactions involving affiliated financial institutions.
CLOSED-END INVESTMENT COMPANIES are investment companies that issue a
fixed number of shares which trade on a stock exchange or
over-the-counter. Closed-end investment companies are professionally
managed and may invest in any type of security. Shares of closed-end
investment companies may trade at a premium or a discount to their net
asset value. A fund may purchase shares of closed-end investment
companies to facilitate investment in certain foreign countries.
CONVERTIBLE SECURITIES are bonds, debentures, notes, preferred stocks
or other securities that may be converted or exchanged (by the holder
or by the issuer) into shares of the underlying common stock (or cash
or securities of equivalent value) at a stated exchange ratio. A
convertible security may also be called for redemption or conversion
by the issuer after a particular date and under certain circumstances
(including a specified price) established upon issue. If a convertible
security held by a fund is called for redemption or conversion, the
fund could be required to tender it for redemption, convert it into
the underlying common stock, or sell it to a third party.
Convertible securities generally have less potential for gain or loss
than common stocks. Convertible securities generally provide yields
higher than the underlying common stocks, but generally lower than
comparable non-convertible securities. Because of this higher yield,
convertible securities generally sell at prices above their
"conversion value," which is the current market value of the stock to
be received upon conversion. The difference between this conversion
value and the price of convertible securities will vary over time
depending on changes in the value of the underlying common stocks and
interest rates. When the underlying common stocks decline in value,
convertible securities will tend not to decline to the same extent
because of the interest or dividend payments and the repayment of
principal at maturity for certain types of convertible securities.
However, securities that are convertible other than at the option of
the holder generally do not limit the potential for loss to the same
extent as securities convertible at the option of the holder. When the
underlying common stocks rise in value, the value of convertible
securities may also be expected to increase. At the same time,
however, the difference between the market value of convertible
securities and their conversion value will narrow, which means that
the value of convertible securities will generally not increase to the
same extent as the value of the underlying common stocks. Because
convertible securities may also be interest-rate sensitive, their
value may increase as interest rates fall and decrease as interest
rates rise. Convertible securities are also subject to credit risk,
and are often lower-quality securities.
EXPOSURE TO FOREIGN MARKETS. Foreign securities, foreign currencies,
and securities issued by U.S. entities with substantial foreign
operations may involve significant risks in addition to the risks
inherent in U.S. investments.
Foreign investments involve risks relating to local political,
economic, regulatory, or social instability, military action or
unrest, or adverse diplomatic developments, and may be affected by
actions of foreign governments adverse to the interests of U.S.
investors. Such actions may include expropriation or nationalization
of assets, confiscatory taxation, restrictions on U.S. investment or
on the ability to repatriate assets or convert currency into U.S.
dollars, or other government intervention. There is no assurance that
FMR will be able to anticipate these potential events or counter their
effects. In addition, the value of securities denominated in foreign
currencies and of dividends and interest paid with respect to such
securities will fluctuate based on the relative strength of the U.S.
dollar.
It is anticipated that in most cases the best available market for
foreign securities will be on an exchange or in over-the-counter (OTC)
markets located outside of the United States. Foreign stock markets,
while growing in volume and sophistication, are generally not as
developed as those in the United States, and securities of some
foreign issuers may be less liquid and more volatile than securities
of comparable U.S. issuers. Foreign security trading, settlement and
custodial practices (including those involving securities settlement
where fund assets may be released prior to receipt of payment) are
often less developed than those in U.S. markets, and may result in
increased risk or substantial delays in the event of a failed trade or
the insolvency of, or breach of duty by, a foreign broker-dealer,
securities depository or foreign subcustodian. In addition, the costs
associated with foreign investments, including withholding taxes,
brokerage commissions and custodial costs, are generally higher than
with U.S. investments.
Foreign markets may offer less protection to investors than U.S.
markets. Foreign issuers are generally not bound by uniform
accounting, auditing, and financial reporting requirements and
standards of practice comparable to those applicable to U.S. issuers.
Adequate public information on foreign issuers may not be available,
and it may be difficult to secure dividends and information regarding
corporate actions on a timely basis. In general, there is less overall
governmental supervision and regulation of securities exchanges,
brokers, and listed companies than in the United States. OTC markets
tend to be less regulated than stock exchange markets and, in certain
countries, may be totally unregulated. Regulatory enforcement may be
influenced by economic or political concerns, and investors may have
difficulty enforcing their legal rights in foreign countries.
Some foreign securities impose restrictions on transfer within the
United States or to U.S. persons. Although securities subject to such
transfer restrictions may be marketable abroad, they may be less
liquid than foreign securities of the same class that are not subject
to such restrictions.
American Depositary Receipts (ADRs) as well as other "hybrid" forms of
ADRs, including European Depositary Receipts (EDRs) and Global
Depositary Receipts (GDRs), are certificates evidencing ownership of
shares of a foreign issuer. These certificates are issued by
depository banks and generally trade on an established market in the
United States or elsewhere. The underlying shares are held in trust by
a custodian bank or similar financial institution in the issuer's home
country. The depository bank may not have physical custody of the
underlying securities at all times and may charge fees for various
services, including forwarding dividends and interest and corporate
actions. ADRs are alternatives to directly purchasing the underlying
foreign securities in their national markets and currencies. However,
ADRs continue to be subject to many of the risks associated with
investing directly in foreign securities. These risks include foreign
exchange risk as well as the political and economic risks of the
underlying issuer's country.
The risks of foreign investing may be magnified for investments in
emerging markets. Security prices in emerging markets can be
significantly more volatile than those in more developed markets,
reflecting the greater uncertainties of investing in less established
markets and economies. In particular, countries with emerging markets
may have relatively unstable governments, may present the risks of
nationalization of businesses, restrictions on foreign ownership and
prohibitions on the repatriation of assets, and may have less
protection of property rights than more developed countries. The
economies of countries with emerging markets may be based on only a
few industries, may be highly vulnerable to changes in local or global
trade conditions, and may suffer from extreme and volatile debt
burdens or inflation rates. Local securities markets may trade a small
number of securities and may be unable to respond effectively to
increases in trading volume, potentially making prompt liquidation of
holdings difficult or impossible at times.
FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSACTIONS. A fund may conduct foreign currency
transactions on a spot (i.e., cash) or forward basis (i.e., by
entering into forward contracts to purchase or sell foreign
currencies). Although foreign exchange dealers generally do not charge
a fee for such conversions, they do realize a profit based on the
difference between the prices at which they are buying and selling
various currencies. Thus, a dealer may offer to sell a foreign
currency at one rate, while offering a lesser rate of exchange should
the counterparty desire to resell that currency to the dealer. Forward
contracts are customized transactions that require a specific amount
of a currency to be delivered at a specific exchange rate on a
specific date or range of dates in the future. Forward contracts are
generally traded in an interbank market directly between currency
traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers. The
parties to a forward contract may agree to offset or terminate the
contract before its maturity, or may hold the contract to maturity and
complete the contemplated currency exchange. A fund may use currency
forward contracts for any purpose consistent with its investment
objective.
The following discussion summarizes the principal currency management
strategies involving forward contracts that could be used by a fund. A
fund may also use swap agreements, indexed securities, and options and
futures contracts relating to foreign currencies for the same
purposes.
A "settlement hedge" or "transaction hedge" is designed to protect a
fund against an adverse change in foreign currency values between the
date a security is purchased or sold and the date on which payment is
made or received. Entering into a forward contract for the purchase or
sale of the amount of foreign currency involved in an underlying
security transaction for a fixed amount of U.S. dollars "locks in" the
U.S. dollar price of the security. Forward contracts to purchase or
sell a foreign currency may also be used by a fund in anticipation of
future purchases or sales of securities denominated in foreign
currency, even if the specific investments have not yet been selected
by FMR.
A fund may also use forward contracts to hedge against a decline in
the value of existing investments denominated in foreign currency. For
example, if a fund owned securities denominated in pounds sterling, it
could enter into a forward contract to sell pounds sterling in return
for U.S. dollars to hedge against possible declines in the pound's
value. Such a hedge, sometimes referred to as a "position hedge,"
would tend to offset both positive and negative currency fluctuations,
but would not offset changes in security values caused by other
factors. A fund could also hedge the position by selling another
currency expected to perform similarly to the pound sterling. This
type of hedge, sometimes referred to as a "proxy hedge," could offer
advantages in terms of cost, yield, or efficiency, but generally would
not hedge currency exposure as effectively as a direct hedge into U.S.
dollars. Proxy hedges may result in losses if the currency used to
hedge does not perform similarly to the currency in which the hedged
securities are denominated.
A fund may enter into forward contracts to shift its investment
exposure from one currency into another. This may include shifting
exposure from U.S. dollars to a foreign currency, or from one foreign
currency to another foreign currency. This type of strategy, sometimes
known as a "cross-hedge," will tend to reduce or eliminate exposure to
the currency that is sold, and increase exposure to the currency that
is purchased, much as if a fund had sold a security denominated in one
currency and purchased an equivalent security denominated in another.
Cross-hedges protect against losses resulting from a decline in the
hedged currency, but will cause a fund to assume the risk of
fluctuations in the value of the currency it purchases.
Under certain conditions, SEC guidelines require mutual funds to set
aside appropriate liquid assets in a segregated custodial account to
cover currency forward contracts. As required by SEC guidelines, a
fund will segregate assets to cover currency forward contracts, if
any, whose purpose is essentially speculative. A fund will not
segregate assets to cover forward contracts entered into for hedging
purposes, including settlement hedges, position hedges, and proxy
hedges.
Successful use of currency management strategies will depend on FMR's
skill in analyzing currency values. Currency management strategies may
substantially change a fund's investment exposure to changes in
currency exchange rates and could result in losses to a fund if
currencies do not perform as FMR anticipates. For example, if a
currency's value rose at a time when FMR had hedged a fund by selling
that currency in exchange for dollars, a fund would not participate in
the currency's appreciation. If FMR hedges currency exposure through
proxy hedges, a fund could realize currency losses from both the hedge
and the security position if the two currencies do not move in tandem.
Similarly, if FMR increases a fund's exposure to a foreign currency
and that currency's value declines, a fund will realize a loss. There
is no assurance that FMR's use of currency management strategies will
be advantageous to a fund or that it will hedge at appropriate times.
FUND'S RIGHTS AS A SHAREHOLDER. The fund does not intend to direct or
administer the day-to-day operations of any company. A fund, however,
may exercise its rights as a shareholder and may communicate its views
on important matters of policy to management, the Board of Directors,
and shareholders of a company when FMR determines that such matters
could have a significant effect on the value of the fund's investment
in the company. The activities in which a fund may engage, either
individually or in conjunction with others, may include, among others,
supporting or opposing proposed changes in a company's corporate
structure or business activities; seeking changes in a company's
directors or management; seeking changes in a company's direction or
policies; seeking the sale or reorganization of the company or a
portion of its assets; or supporting or opposing third-party takeover
efforts. This area of corporate activity is increasingly prone to
litigation and it is possible that a fund could be involved in
lawsuits related to such activities. FMR will monitor such activities
with a view to mitigating, to the extent possible, the risk of
litigation against a fund and the risk of actual liability if a fund
is involved in litigation. No guarantee can be made, however, that
litigation against a fund will not be undertaken or liabilities
incurred.
FUTURES AND OPTIONS. The following paragraphs pertain to futures and
options: Asset Coverage for Futures and Options Positions, Combined
Positions, Correlation of Price Changes, Futures Contracts, Futures
Margin Payments, Limitations on Futures and Options Transactions,
Liquidity of Options and Futures Contracts, Options and Futures
Relating to Foreign Currencies, OTC Options, Purchasing Put and Call
Options, and Writing Put and Call Options.
ASSET COVERAGE FOR FUTURES AND OPTIONS POSITIONS. The fund will comply
with guidelines established by the SEC with respect to coverage of
options and futures strategies by mutual funds and, if the guidelines
so require, will set aside appropriate liquid assets in a segregated
custodial account in the amount prescribed. Securities held in a
segregated account cannot be sold while the futures or option strategy
is outstanding, unless they are replaced with other suitable assets.
As a result, there is a possibility that segregation of a large
percentage of the fund's assets could impede portfolio management or
the fund's ability to meet redemption requests or other current
obligations.
COMBINED POSITIONS involve purchasing and writing options in
combination with each other, or in combination with futures or forward
contracts, to adjust the risk and return characteristics of the
overall position. For example, purchasing a put option and writing a
call option on the same underlying instrument would construct a
combined position whose risk and return characteristics are similar to
selling a futures contract. Another possible combined position would
involve writing a call option at one strike price and buying a call
option at a lower price, to reduce the risk of the written call option
in the event of a substantial price increase. Because combined options
positions involve multiple trades, they result in higher transaction
costs and may be more difficult to open and close out.
CORRELATION OF PRICE CHANGES. Because there are a limited number of
types of exchange-traded options and futures contracts, it is likely
that the standardized contracts available will not match a fund's
current or anticipated investments exactly. A fund may invest in
options and futures contracts based on securities with different
issuers, maturities, or other characteristics from the securities in
which the fund typically invests, which involves a risk that the
options or futures position will not track the performance of the
fund's other investments.
Options and futures prices can also diverge from the prices of their
underlying instruments, even if the underlying instruments match a
fund's investments well. Options and futures prices are affected by
such factors as current and anticipated short-term interest rates,
changes in volatility of the underlying instrument, and the time
remaining until expiration of the contract, which may not affect
security prices the same way. Imperfect correlation may also result
from differing levels of demand in the options and futures markets and
the securities markets, from structural differences in how options and
futures and securities are traded, or from imposition of daily price
fluctuation limits or trading halts. A fund may purchase or sell
options and futures contracts with a greater or lesser value than the
securities it wishes to hedge or intends to purchase in order to
attempt to compensate for differences in volatility between the
contract and the securities, although this may not be successful in
all cases. If price changes in a fund's options or futures positions
are poorly correlated with its other investments, the positions may
fail to produce anticipated gains or result in losses that are not
offset by gains in other investments.
FUTURES CONTRACTS. In purchasing a futures contract, the buyer agrees
to purchase a specified underlying instrument at a specified future
date. In selling a futures contract, the seller agrees to sell a
specified underlying instrument at a specified future date. The price
at which the purchase and sale will take place is fixed when the buyer
and seller enter into the contract. Some currently available futures
contracts are based on specific securities, such as U.S. Treasury
bonds or notes, and some are based on indices of securities prices,
such as the Standard & Poor's 500 Index (S&P 500). Futures can be held
until their delivery dates, or can be closed out before then if a
liquid secondary market is available.
The value of a futures contract tends to increase and decrease in
tandem with the value of its underlying instrument. Therefore,
purchasing futures contracts will tend to increase a fund's exposure
to positive and negative price fluctuations in the underlying
instrument, much as if it had purchased the underlying instrument
directly. When a fund sells a futures contract, by contrast, the value
of its futures position will tend to move in a direction contrary to
the market. Selling futures contracts, therefore, will tend to offset
both positive and negative market price changes, much as if the
underlying instrument had been sold.
FUTURES MARGIN PAYMENTS. The purchaser or seller of a futures contract
is not required to deliver or pay for the underlying instrument unless
the contract is held until the delivery date. However, both the
purchaser and seller are required to deposit "initial margin" with a
futures broker, known as a futures commission merchant (FCM), when the
contract is entered into. Initial margin deposits are typically equal
to a percentage of the contract's value. If the value of either
party's position declines, that party will be required to make
additional "variation margin" payments to settle the change in value
on a daily basis. The party that has a gain may be entitled to receive
all or a portion of this amount. Initial and variation margin payments
do not constitute purchasing securities on margin for purposes of a
fund's investment limitations. In the event of the bankruptcy of an
FCM that holds margin on behalf of a fund, the fund may be entitled to
return of margin owed to it only in proportion to the amount received
by the FCM's other customers, potentially resulting in losses to the
fund.
LIMITATIONS ON FUTURES AND OPTIONS TRANSACTIONS. The fund intends to
file a notice of eligibility for exclusion from the definition of the
term "commodity pool operator" with the Commodity Futures Trading
Commission (CFTC) and the National Futures Association, which regulate
trading in the futures markets. The fund intends to comply with Rule
4.5 under the Commodity Exchange Act, which limits the extent to which
the fund can commit assets to initial margin deposits and option
premiums.
In addition, the fund will not: (a) sell futures contracts, purchase
put options, or write call options if, as a result, more than 25% of
the fund's total assets would be hedged with futures and options under
normal conditions; (b) purchase futures contracts or write put options
if, as a result, the fund's total obligations upon settlement or
exercise of purchased futures contracts and written put options would
exceed 25% of its total assets under normal conditions; or (c)
purchase call options if, as a result, the current value of option
premiums for call options purchased by the fund would exceed 5% of the
fund's total assets. These limitations do not apply to options
attached to or acquired or traded together with their underlying
securities, and do not apply to securities that incorporate features
similar to options.
The above limitations on the fund's investments in futures contracts
and options, and the fund's policies regarding futures contracts and
options discussed elsewhere in this SAI, may be changed as regulatory
agencies permit.
LIQUIDITY OF OPTIONS AND FUTURES CONTRACTS. There is no assurance a
liquid secondary market will exist for any particular options or
futures contract at any particular time. Options may have relatively
low trading volume and liquidity if their strike prices are not close
to the underlying instrument's current price. In addition, exchanges
may establish daily price fluctuation limits for options and futures
contracts, and may halt trading if a contract's price moves upward or
downward more than the limit in a given day. On volatile trading days
when the price fluctuation limit is reached or a trading halt is
imposed, it may be impossible to enter into new positions or close out
existing positions. If the secondary market for a contract is not
liquid because of price fluctuation limits or otherwise, it could
prevent prompt liquidation of unfavorable positions, and potentially
could require a fund to continue to hold a position until delivery or
expiration regardless of changes in its value. As a result, a fund's
access to other assets held to cover its options or futures positions
could also be impaired.
OPTIONS AND FUTURES RELATING TO FOREIGN CURRENCIES. Currency futures
contracts are similar to forward currency exchange contracts, except
that they are traded on exchanges (and have margin requirements) and
are standardized as to contract size and delivery date. Most currency
futures contracts call for payment or delivery in U.S. dollars. The
underlying instrument of a currency option may be a foreign currency,
which generally is purchased or delivered in exchange for U.S.
dollars, or may be a futures contract. The purchaser of a currency
call obtains the right to purchase the underlying currency, and the
purchaser of a currency put obtains the right to sell the underlying
currency.
The uses and risks of currency options and futures are similar to
options and futures relating to securities or indices, as discussed
above. A fund may purchase and sell currency futures and may purchase
and write currency options to increase or decrease its exposure to
different foreign currencies. Currency options may also be purchased
or written in conjunction with each other or with currency futures or
forward contracts. Currency futures and options values can be expected
to correlate with exchange rates, but may not reflect other factors
that affect the value of a fund's investments. A currency hedge, for
example, should protect a Yen-denominated security from a decline in
the Yen, but will not protect a fund against a price decline resulting
from deterioration in the issuer's creditworthiness. Because the value
of a fund's foreign-denominated investments changes in response to
many factors other than exchange rates, it may not be possible to
match the amount of currency options and futures to the value of the
fund's investments exactly over time.
OTC OPTIONS. Unlike exchange-traded options, which are standardized
with respect to the underlying instrument, expiration date, contract
size, and strike price, the terms of over-the-counter (OTC) options
(options not traded on exchanges) generally are established through
negotiation with the other party to the option contract. While this
type of arrangement allows the purchaser or writer greater flexibility
to tailor an option to its needs, OTC options generally involve
greater credit risk than exchange-traded options, which are guaranteed
by the clearing organization of the exchanges where they are traded.
PURCHASING PUT AND CALL OPTIONS. By purchasing a put option, the
purchaser obtains the right (but not the obligation) to sell the
option's underlying instrument at a fixed strike price. In return for
this right, the purchaser pays the current market price for the option
(known as the option premium). Options have various types of
underlying instruments, including specific securities, indices of
securities prices, and futures contracts. The purchaser may terminate
its position in a put option by allowing it to expire or by exercising
the option. If the option is allowed to expire, the purchaser will
lose the entire premium. If the option is exercised, the purchaser
completes the sale of the underlying instrument at the strike price. A
purchaser may also terminate a put option position by closing it out
in the secondary market at its current price, if a liquid secondary
market exists.
The buyer of a typical put option can expect to realize a gain if
security prices fall substantially. However, if the underlying
instrument's price does not fall enough to offset the cost of
purchasing the option, a put buyer can expect to suffer a loss
(limited to the amount of the premium, plus related transaction
costs).
The features of call options are essentially the same as those of put
options, except that the purchaser of a call option obtains the right
to purchase, rather than sell, the underlying instrument at the
option's strike price. A call buyer typically attempts to participate
in potential price increases of the underlying instrument with risk
limited to the cost of the option if security prices fall. At the same
time, the buyer can expect to suffer a loss if security prices do not
rise sufficiently to offset the cost of the option.
WRITING PUT AND CALL OPTIONS. The writer of a put or call option takes
the opposite side of the transaction from the option's purchaser. In
return for receipt of the premium, the writer assumes the obligation
to pay the strike price for the option's underlying instrument if the
other party to the option chooses to exercise it. The writer may seek
to terminate a position in a put option before exercise by closing out
the option in the secondary market at its current price. If the
secondary market is not liquid for a put option, however, the writer
must continue to be prepared to pay the strike price while the option
is outstanding, regardless of price changes, and must continue to set
aside assets to cover its position. When writing an option on a
futures contract, a fund will be required to make margin payments to
an FCM as described above for futures contracts.
If security prices rise, a put writer would generally expect to
profit, although its gain would be limited to the amount of the
premium it received. If security prices remain the same over time, it
is likely that the writer will also profit, because it should be able
to close out the option at a lower price. If security prices fall, the
put writer would expect to suffer a loss. This loss should be less
than the loss from purchasing the underlying instrument directly,
however, because the premium received for writing the option should
mitigate the effects of the decline.
Writing a call option obligates the writer to sell or deliver the
option's underlying instrument, in return for the strike price, upon
exercise of the option. The characteristics of writing call options
are similar to those of writing put options, except that writing calls
generally is a profitable strategy if prices remain the same or fall.
Through receipt of the option premium, a call writer mitigates the
effects of a price decline. At the same time, because a call writer
must be prepared to deliver the underlying instrument in return for
the strike price, even if its current value is greater, a call writer
gives up some ability to participate in security price increases.
ILLIQUID INVESTMENTS are investments that cannot be sold or disposed
of in the ordinary course of business at approximately the prices at
which they are valued. Under the supervision of the Board of Trustees,
FMR determines the liquidity of a fund's investments and, through
reports from FMR, the Board monitors investments in illiquid
instruments. In determining the liquidity of a fund's investments, FMR
may consider various factors, including (1) the frequency of trades
and quotations, (2) the number of dealers and prospective purchasers
in the marketplace, (3) dealer undertakings to make a market, (4) the
nature of the security (including any demand or tender features), and
(5) the nature of the marketplace for trades (including the ability to
assign or offset the fund's rights and obligations relating to the
investment).
Investments currently considered by FMR to be illiquid include
repurchase agreements not entitling the holder to repayment of
principal and payment of interest within seven days, over-the-counter
options, and non-government stripped fixed-rate mortgage-backed
securities. Also, FMR may determine some restricted securities,
government-stripped fixed-rate mortgage-backed securities, loans and
other direct debt instruments, emerging market securities, and swap
agreements to be illiquid. However, with respect to over-the-counter
options a fund writes, all or a portion of the value of the underlying
instrument may be illiquid depending on the assets held to cover the
option and the nature and terms of any agreement the fund may have to
close out the option before expiration.
In the absence of market quotations, illiquid investments are priced
at fair value as determined in good faith by a committee appointed by
the Board of Trustees.
INDEXED SECURITIES are instruments whose prices are indexed to the
prices of other securities, securities indices, currencies, precious
metals or other commodities, or other financial indicators. Indexed
securities typically, but not always, are debt securities or deposits
whose value at maturity or coupon rate is determined by reference to a
specific instrument or statistic.
Gold-indexed securities typically provide for a maturity value that
depends on the price of gold, resulting in a security whose price
tends to rise and fall together with gold prices. Currency-indexed
securities typically are short-term to intermediate-term debt
securities whose maturity values or interest rates are determined by
reference to the values of one or more specified foreign currencies,
and may offer higher yields than U.S. dollar-denominated securities.
Currency-indexed securities may be positively or negatively indexed;
that is, their maturity value may increase when the specified currency
value increases, resulting in a security that performs similarly to a
foreign-denominated instrument, or their maturity value may decline
when foreign currencies increase, resulting in a security whose price
characteristics are similar to a put on the underlying currency.
Currency-indexed securities may also have prices that depend on the
values of a number of different foreign currencies relative to each
other.
The performance of indexed securities depends to a great extent on the
performance of the security, currency, or other instrument to which
they are indexed, and may also be influenced by interest rate changes
in the United States and abroad. Indexed securities may be more
volatile than the underlying instruments. Indexed securities are also
subject to the credit risks associated with the issuer of the
security, and their values may decline substantially if the issuer's
creditworthiness deteriorates. Recent issuers of indexed securities
have included banks, corporations, and certain U.S. Government
agencies.
INTERFUND BORROWING AND LENDING PROGRAM. Pursuant to an exemptive
order issued by the SEC, a fund may lend money to, and borrow money
from, other funds advised by FMR or its affiliates. A fund will lend
through the program only when the returns are higher than those
available from an investment in repurchase agreements, and will borrow
through the program only when the costs are equal to or lower than the
cost of bank loans. Interfund loans and borrowings normally extend
overnight, but can have a maximum duration of seven days. Loans may be
called on one day's notice. A fund may have to borrow from a bank at a
higher interest rate if an interfund loan is called or not renewed.
Any delay in repayment to a lending fund could result in a lost
investment opportunity or additional borrowing costs.
LOANS AND OTHER DIRECT DEBT INSTRUMENTS. Direct debt instruments are
interests in amounts owed by a corporate, governmental, or other
borrower to lenders or lending syndicates (loans and loan
participations), to suppliers of goods or services (trade claims or
other receivables), or to other parties. Direct debt instruments are
subject to a fund's policies regarding the quality of debt securities.
Purchasers of loans and other forms of direct indebtedness depend
primarily upon the creditworthiness of the borrower for payment of
interest and repayment of principal. Direct debt instruments may not
be rated by any nationally recognized statistical rating service. If
scheduled interest or principal payments are not made, the value of
the instrument may be adversely affected. Loans that are fully secured
provide more protections than an unsecured loan in the event of
failure to make scheduled interest or principal payments. However,
there is no assurance that the liquidation of collateral from a
secured loan would satisfy the borrower's obligation, or that the
collateral could be liquidated. Indebtedness of borrowers whose
creditworthiness is poor involves substantially greater risks and may
be highly speculative. Borrowers that are in bankruptcy or
restructuring may never pay off their indebtedness, or may pay only a
small fraction of the amount owed. Direct indebtedness of developing
countries also involves a risk that the governmental entities
responsible for the repayment of the debt may be unable, or unwilling,
to pay interest and repay principal when due.
Investments in loans through direct assignment of a financial
institution's interests with respect to a loan may involve additional
risks. For example, if a loan is foreclosed, the purchaser could
become part owner of any collateral, and would bear the costs and
liabilities associated with owning and disposing of the collateral. In
addition, it is conceivable that under emerging legal theories of
lender liability, a purchaser could be held liable as a co-lender.
Direct debt instruments may also involve a risk of insolvency of the
lending bank or other intermediary. Direct debt instruments that are
not in the form of securities may offer less legal protection to the
purchaser in the event of fraud or misrepresentation. In the absence
of definitive regulatory guidance, FMR uses its research to attempt to
avoid situations where fraud or misrepresentation could adversely
affect a fund.
A loan is often administered by a bank or other financial institution
that acts as agent for all holders. The agent administers the terms of
the loan, as specified in the loan agreement. Unless, under the terms
of the loan or other indebtedness, the purchaser has direct recourse
against the borrower, the purchaser may have to rely on the agent to
apply appropriate credit remedies against a borrower. If assets held
by the agent for the benefit of a purchaser were determined to be
subject to the claims of the agent's general creditors, the purchaser
might incur certain costs and delays in realizing payment on the loan
or loan participation and could suffer a loss of principal or
interest.
Direct indebtedness may include letters of credit, revolving credit
facilities, or other standby financing commitments that obligate
purchasers to make additional cash payments on demand. These
commitments may have the effect of requiring a purchaser to increase
its investment in a borrower at a time when it would not otherwise
have done so, even if the borrower's condition makes it unlikely that
the amount will ever be repaid. A fund will set aside appropriate
liquid assets in a segregated custodial account to cover its potential
obligations under standby financing commitments.
The fund limits the amount of total assets that it will invest in any
one issuer or in issuers within the same industry (see the fund's
investment limitations). For purposes of these limitations, a fund
generally will treat the borrower as the "issuer" of indebtedness held
by the fund. In the case of loan participations where a bank or other
lending institution serves as financial intermediary between a fund
and the borrower, if the participation does not shift to the fund the
direct debtor-creditor relationship with the borrower, SEC
interpretations require a fund, in appropriate circumstances, to treat
both the lending bank or other lending institution and the borrower as
"issuers" for these purposes. Treating a financial intermediary as an
issuer of indebtedness may restrict a fund's ability to invest in
indebtedness related to a single financial intermediary, or a group of
intermediaries engaged in the same industry, even if the underlying
borrowers represent many different companies and industries.
LOWER-QUALITY DEBT SECURITIES. Lower-quality debt securities have poor
protection with respect to the payment of interest and repayment of
principal, or may be in default. These securities are often considered
to be speculative and involve greater risk of loss or price changes
due to changes in the issuer's capacity to pay. The market prices of
lower-quality debt securities may fluctuate more than those of
higher-quality debt securities and may decline significantly in
periods of general economic difficulty, which may follow periods of
rising interest rates.
While the market for high-yield corporate debt securities has been in
existence for many years and has weathered previous economic
downturns, the 1980s brought a dramatic increase in the use of such
securities to fund highly leveraged corporate acquisitions and
restructurings. Past experience may not provide an accurate indication
of the future performance of the high-yield bond market, especially
during periods of economic recession.
The market for lower-quality debt securities may be thinner and less
active than that for higher-quality debt securities, which can
adversely affect the prices at which the former are sold. If market
quotations are not available, lower-quality debt securities will be
valued in accordance with procedures established by the Board of
Trustees, including the use of outside pricing services. Judgment
plays a greater role in valuing high-yield debt securities than is the
case for securities for which more external sources for quotations and
last-sale information are available. Adverse publicity and changing
investor perceptions may affect the liquidity of lower-quality debt
securities and the ability of outside pricing services to value
lower-quality debt securities.
Since the risk of default is higher for lower-quality debt securities,
FMR's research and credit analysis are an especially important part of
managing securities of this type. FMR will attempt to identify those
issuers of high-yielding securities whose financial condition is
adequate to meet future obligations, has improved, or is expected to
improve in the future. FMR's analysis focuses on relative values based
on such factors as interest or dividend coverage, asset coverage,
earnings prospects, and the experience and managerial strength of the
issuer.
A fund may choose, at its expense or in conjunction with others, to
pursue litigation or otherwise to exercise its rights as a security
holder to seek to protect the interests of security holders if it
determines this to be in the best interest of the fund's shareholders.
REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS. Equity real estate investment trusts
own real estate properties, while mortgage real estate investment
trusts make construction, development, and long-term mortgage loans.
Their value may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying
property of the trusts, the creditworthiness of the issuer, property
taxes, interest rates, and tax and regulatory requirements, such as
those relating to the environment. Both types of trusts are dependent
upon management skill, are not diversified, and are subject to heavy
cash flow dependency, defaults by borrowers, self-liquidation, and the
possibility of failing to qualify for tax-free status of income under
the Internal Revenue Code and failing to maintain exemption from the
1940 Act.
REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS. In a repurchase agreement, a fund purchases a
security and simultaneously commits to sell that security back to the
original seller at an agreed-upon price. The resale price reflects the
purchase price plus an agreed-upon incremental amount which is
unrelated to the coupon rate or maturity of the purchased security. As
protection against the risk that the original seller will not fulfill
its obligation, the securities are held in a separate account at a
bank, marked-to-market daily, and maintained at a value at least equal
to the sale price plus the accrued incremental amount. While it does
not presently appear possible to eliminate all risks from these
transactions (particularly the possibility that the value of the
underlying security will be less than the resale price, as well as
delays and costs to a fund in connection with bankruptcy proceedings),
the fund will engage in repurchase agreement transactions with parties
whose creditworthiness has been reviewed and found satisfactory by
FMR.
RESTRICTED SECURITIES generally can be sold in privately negotiated
transactions, pursuant to an exemption from registration under the
Securities Act of 1933, or in a registered public offering. Where
registration is required, a fund may be obligated to pay all or part
of the registration expense and a considerable period may elapse
between the time it decides to seek registration and the time it may
be permitted to sell a security under an effective registration
statement. If, during such a period, adverse market conditions were to
develop, a fund might obtain a less favorable price than prevailed
when it decided to seek registration of the security.
REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS. In a reverse repurchase agreement, a
fund sells a security to another party, such as a bank or
broker-dealer, in return for cash and agrees to repurchase that
security at an agreed-upon price and time. While a reverse repurchase
agreement is outstanding, a fund will maintain appropriate liquid
assets in a segregated custodial account to cover its obligation under
the agreement. The fund will enter into reverse repurchase agreements
with parties whose creditworthiness has been reviewed and found
satisfactory by FMR. Such transactions may increase fluctuations in
the market value of fund assets and may be viewed as a form of
leverage.
SECURITIES LENDING. A fund may lend securities to parties such as
broker-dealers or institutional investors, including Fidelity
Brokerage Services, Inc. (FBSI). FBSI is a member of the New York
Stock Exchange and a subsidiary of FMR Corp.
Securities lending allows a fund to retain ownership of the securities
loaned and, at the same time, to earn additional income. Since there
may be delays in the recovery of loaned securities, or even a loss of
rights in collateral supplied should the borrower fail financially,
loans will be made only to parties deemed by FMR to be of good
standing. Furthermore, they will only be made if, in FMR's judgment,
the consideration to be earned from such loans would justify the risk.
FMR understands that it is the current view of the SEC Staff that a
fund may engage in loan transactions only under the following
conditions: (1) the fund must receive 100% collateral in the form of
cash or cash equivalents (e.g., U.S. Treasury bills or notes) from the
borrower; (2) the borrower must increase the collateral whenever the
market value of the securities loaned (determined on a daily basis)
rises above the value of the collateral; (3) after giving notice, the
fund must be able to terminate the loan at any time; (4) the fund must
receive reasonable interest on the loan or a flat fee from the
borrower, as well as amounts equivalent to any dividends, interest, or
other distributions on the securities loaned and to any increase in
market value; (5) the fund may pay only reasonable custodian fees in
connection with the loan; and (6) the Board of Trustees must be able
to vote proxies on the securities loaned, either by terminating the
loan or by entering into an alternative arrangement with the borrower.
Cash received through loan transactions may be invested in other
eligible securities. Investing this cash subjects that investment, as
well as the security loaned, to market forces (i.e., capital
appreciation or depreciation).
SHORT SALES "AGAINST THE BOX." A fund may sell securities short when
it owns or has the right to obtain securities equivalent in kind or
amount to the securities sold short. Such short sales are known as
short sales "against the box." If a fund enters into a short sale
against the box, it will be required to set aside securities
equivalent in kind and amount to the securities sold short (or
securities convertible or exchangeable into such securities) and will
be required to hold such securities while the short sale is
outstanding. The fund will incur transaction costs, including interest
expenses, in connection with opening, maintaining, and closing short
sales against the box.
SWAP AGREEMENTS can be individually negotiated and structured to
include exposure to a variety of different types of investments or
market factors. Depending on their structure, swap agreements may
increase or decrease a fund's exposure to long- or short-term interest
rates (in the United States or abroad), foreign currency values,
mortgage securities, corporate borrowing rates, or other factors such
as security prices or inflation rates. Swap agreements can take many
different forms and are known by a variety of names.
In a typical cap or floor agreement, one party agrees to make payments
only under specified circumstances, usually in return for payment of a
fee by the other party. For example, the buyer of an interest rate cap
obtains the right to receive payments to the extent that a specified
interest rate exceeds an agreed-upon level, while the seller of an
interest rate floor is obligated to make payments to the extent that a
specified interest rate falls below an agreed-upon level. An interest
rate collar combines elements of buying a cap and selling a floor.
Swap agreements will tend to shift a fund's investment exposure from
one type of investment to another. For example, if the fund agreed to
exchange payments in dollars for payments in foreign currency, the
swap agreement would tend to decrease the fund's exposure to U.S.
interest rates and increase its exposure to foreign currency and
interest rates. Caps and floors have an effect similar to buying or
writing options. Depending on how they are used, swap agreements may
increase or decrease the overall volatility of a fund's investments
and its share price.
The most significant factor in the performance of swap agreements is
the change in the specific interest rate, currency, or other factors
that determine the amounts of payments due to and from a fund. If a
swap agreement calls for payments by the fund, the fund must be
prepared to make such payments when due. In addition, if the
counterparty's creditworthiness declined, the value of a swap
agreement would be likely to decline, potentially resulting in losses.
A fund may be able to eliminate its exposure under a swap agreement
either by assignment or other disposition, or by entering into an
offsetting swap agreement with the same party or a similarly
creditworthy party.
A fund will maintain appropriate liquid assets in a segregated
custodial account to cover its current obligations under swap
agreements. If a fund enters into a swap agreement on a net basis, it
will segregate assets with a daily value at least equal to the excess,
if any, of the fund's accrued obligations under the swap agreement
over the accrued amount the fund is entitled to receive under the
agreement. If a fund enters into a swap agreement on other than a net
basis, it will segregate assets with a value equal to the full amount
of the fund's accrued obligations under the agreement.
WARRANTS. Warrants are instruments which entitle the holder to buy an
equity security at a specific price for a specific period of time.
Changes in the value of a warrant do not necessarily correspond to
changes in the value of its underlying security. The price of a
warrant may be more volatile than the price of its underlying
security, and a warrant may offer greater potential for capital
appreciation as well as capital loss.
Warrants do not entitle a holder to dividends or voting rights with
respect to the underlying security and do not represent any rights in
the assets of the issuing company. A warrant ceases to have value if
it is not exercised prior to its expiration date. These factors can
make warrants more speculative than other types of investments.
PORTFOLIO TRANSACTIONS
All orders for the purchase or sale of portfolio securities are placed
on behalf of the fund by FMR pursuant to authority contained in the
management contract. FMR is also responsible for the placement of
transaction orders for other investment companies and accounts for
which it or its affiliates act as investment adviser. In selecting
broker-dealers, subject to applicable limitations of the federal
securities laws, FMR considers various relevant factors, including,
but not limited to: the size and type of the transaction; the nature
and character of the markets for the security to be purchased or sold;
the execution efficiency, settlement capability, and financial
condition of the broker-dealer firm; the broker-dealer's execution
services rendered on a continuing basis; the reasonableness of any
commissions; and, if applicable, arrangements for payment of fund
expenses.
If FMR grants investment management authority to a sub-adviser (see
the section entitled "Management Contracts"), that sub-adviser is
authorized to place orders for the purchase and sale of portfolio
securities, and will do so in accordance with the policies described
above.
Generally, commissions for investments traded on foreign exchanges
will be higher than for investments traded on U.S. exchanges and may
not be subject to negotiation.
The fund may execute portfolio transactions with broker-dealers who
provide research and execution services to the fund or other accounts
over which FMR or its affiliates exercise investment discretion. Such
services may include advice concerning the value of securities; the
advisability of investing in, purchasing, or selling securities; and
the availability of securities or the purchasers or sellers of
securities. In addition, such broker-dealers may furnish analyses and
reports concerning issuers, industries, securities, economic factors
and trends, portfolio strategy, and performance of accounts; and
effect securities transactions and perform functions incidental
thereto (such as clearance and settlement).
The selection of such broker-dealers for transactions in equity
securities is generally made by FMR (to the extent possible consistent
with execution considerations) in accordance with a ranking of
broker-dealers determined periodically by FMR's investment staff based
upon the quality of research and execution services provided.
For transactions in fixed-income securities, FMR's selection of
broker-dealers is generally based on the availability of a security
and its price and, to a lesser extent, on the overall quality of
execution and other services, including research, provided by the
broker-dealer.
The receipt of research from broker-dealers that execute transactions
on behalf of a fund may be useful to FMR in rendering investment
management services to that fund or its other clients, and conversely,
such research provided by broker-dealers who have executed transaction
orders on behalf of other FMR clients may be useful to FMR in carrying
out its obligations to a fund. The receipt of such research has not
reduced FMR's normal independent research activities; however, it
enables FMR to avoid the additional expenses that could be incurred if
FMR tried to develop comparable information through its own efforts.
Fixed-income securities are generally purchased from an issuer or
underwriter acting as principal for the securities, on a net basis
with no brokerage commission paid. However, the dealer is compensated
by a difference between the security's original purchase price and the
selling price, the so-called "bid-asked spread." Securities may also
be purchased from underwriters at prices that include underwriting
fees.
Subject to applicable limitations of the federal securities laws, the
fund may pay a broker-dealer commissions for agency transactions that
are in excess of the amount of commissions charged by other
broker-dealers in recognition of their research and execution
services. In order to cause the fund to pay such higher commissions,
FMR must determine in good faith that such commissions are reasonable
in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services
provided by such executing broker-dealers, viewed in terms of a
particular transaction or FMR's overall responsibilities to that fund
or its other clients. In reaching this determination, FMR will not
attempt to place a specific dollar value on the brokerage and research
services provided, or to determine what portion of the compensation
should be related to those services.
FMR is authorized to use research services provided by and to place
portfolio transactions with brokerage firms that have provided
assistance in the distribution of shares of the fund or shares of
other Fidelity funds to the extent permitted by law. FMR may use
research services provided by and place agency transactions with
National Financial Services Corporation (NFSC) and Fidelity Brokerage
Services Japan LLC (FBSJ), indirect subsidiaries of FMR Corp., if the
commissions are fair, reasonable, and comparable to commissions
charged by non-affiliated, qualified brokerage firms for similar
services. Prior to December 9, 1997, FMR used research services
provided by and placed agency transactions with Fidelity Brokerage
Services (FBS), an indirect subsidiary of FMR Corp.
To the extent permitted by applicable law, FMR is authorized to
allocate portfolio transactions in a manner that takes into account
assistance received in the distribution of shares of the funds or
other Fidelity funds and to use the research services of brokerage
and other firms that have provided such assistance.
Section 11(a) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 prohibits members
of national securities exchanges from executing exchange transactions
for accounts which they or their affiliates manage, unless certain
requirements are satisfied. Pursuant to such requirements, the Board
of Trustees has authorized NFSC to execute portfolio transactions on
national securities exchanges in accordance with approved procedures
and applicable SEC rules.
The Trustees of the fund periodically review FMR's performance of its
responsibilities in connection with the placement of portfolio
transactions on behalf of the fund and review the commissions paid by
the fund over representative periods of time to determine if they are
reasonable in relation to the benefits to the fund.
Because a high turnover rate increases transaction costs and may
increase taxable gains, FMR carefully weighs the anticipated benefits
of short-term investing against these consequences. An increased
turnover rate is due to a greater volume of shareholder purchase
orders, short-term volatility and other special market conditions.
The Trustees of the fund have approved procedures in conformity with
Rule 10f-3 under the 1940 Act whereby a fund may purchase securities
that are offered in underwritings in which an affiliate of FMR
participates. These procedures prohibit the fund from directly or
indirectly benefiting an FMR affiliate in connection with such
underwritings. In addition, for underwritings where an FMR affiliate
participates as a principal underwriter, certain restrictions may
apply that could, among other things, limit the amount of securities
that the fund could purchase in the underwriting.
From time to time the Trustees will review whether the recapture for
the benefit of the fund of some portion of the brokerage commissions
or similar fees paid by the fund on portfolio transactions is legally
permissible and advisable. The fund seeks to recapture soliciting
broker-dealer fees on the tender of portfolio securities, but at
present no other recapture arrangements are in effect. The Trustees
intend to continue to review whether recapture opportunities are
available and are legally permissible and, if so, to determine in the
exercise of their business judgment whether it would be advisable for
the fund to seek such recapture.
Although the Trustees and officers of the fund are substantially the
same as those of other funds managed by FMR or its affiliates,
investment decisions for the fund are made independently from those of
other funds managed by FMR or accounts managed by FMR affiliates. It
sometimes happens that the same security is held in the portfolio of
more than one of these funds or accounts. Simultaneous transactions
are inevitable when several funds and accounts are managed by the same
investment adviser, particularly when the same security is suitable
for the investment objective of more than one fund or account.
When two or more funds are simultaneously engaged in the purchase or
sale of the same security, the prices and amounts are allocated in
accordance with procedures believed to be appropriate and equitable
for the fund. In some cases this system could have a detrimental
effect on the price or value of the security as far as the fund is
concerned. In other cases, however, the ability of the fund to
participate in volume transactions will produce better executions and
prices for the fund. It is the current opinion of the Trustees that
the desirability of retaining FMR as investment adviser to the fund
outweighs any disadvantages that may be said to exist from exposure to
simultaneous transactions.
VALUATION
FSC normally determines the fund's net asset value per share (NAV) as
of the close of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) (normally 4:00 p.m.
Eastern time). The valuation of portfolio securities is determined as
of this time for the purpose of computing the fund's NAV.
Portfolio securities are valued by various methods depending on the
primary market or exchange on which they trade. Most equity securities
for which the primary market is the United States are valued at last
sale price or, if no sale has occurred, at the closing bid price. Most
equity securities for which the primary market is outside the United
States are valued using the official closing price or the last sale
price in the principal market in which they are traded. If the last
sale price (on the local exchange) is unavailable, the last evaluated
quote or last bid price normally is used. Securities of other open-end
investment companies are valued at their respective NAVs.
Fixed-income securities and other assets for which market quotations
are readily available may be valued at market values determined by
such securities' most recent bid prices (sales prices if the principal
market is an exchange) in the principal market in which they normally
are traded, as furnished by recognized dealers in such securities or
assets. Or, fixed-income securities and convertible securities may be
valued on the basis of information furnished by a pricing service that
uses a valuation matrix which incorporates both dealer-supplied
valuations and electronic data processing techniques. Use of pricing
services has been approved by the Board of Trustees. A number of
pricing services are available, and the fund may use various pricing
services or discontinue the use of any pricing service.
Futures contracts and options are valued on the basis of market
quotations, if available.
Foreign securities are valued based on prices furnished by independent
brokers or quotation services which express the value of securities in
their local currency. FSC gathers all exchange rates daily at the
close of the NYSE using the last quoted price on the local currency
and then translates the value of foreign securities from their local
currencies into U.S. dollars. Any changes in the value of forward
contracts due to exchange rate fluctuations and days to maturity are
included in the calculation of NAV. If an extraordinary event that is
expected to materially affect the value of a portfolio security occurs
after the close of an exchange on which that security is traded, then
that security will be valued as determined in good faith by a
committee appointed by the Board of Trustees.
Short-term securities with remaining maturities of sixty days or less
for which market quotations and information furnished by a pricing
service are not readily available are valued either at amortized cost
or at original cost plus accrued interest, both of which approximate
current value. In addition, securities and other assets for which
there is no readily available market value may be valued in good faith
by a committee appointed by the Board of Trustees. The procedures set
forth above need not be used to determine the value of the securities
owned by the fund if, in the opinion of a committee appointed by the
Board of Trustees, some other method would more accurately reflect the
fair market value of such securities.
PERFORMANCE
A class may quote performance in various ways. All performance
information supplied by the funds in advertising is historical and is
not intended to indicate future returns. The class's share price and
total return fluctuate in response to market conditions and other
factors, and the value of a fund's shares when redeemed may be more or
less than their original cost.
TOTAL RETURN CALCULATIONS. Total returns quoted in advertising reflect
all aspects of a class's return, including the effect of reinvesting
dividends and capital gain distributions, and any change in the
class's NAV over a stated period. A class's total return may be
calculated by using the performance data of a previously existing
class prior to the date that the new class commenced operations,
adjusted to reflect differences in sales charges but not 12b-1 fees.
Average annual total returns are calculated by determining the growth
or decline in value of a hypothetical historical investment in a class
over a stated period, and then calculating the annually compounded
percentage rate that would have produced the same result if the rate
of growth or decline in value had been constant over the period. For
example, a cumulative total return of 100% over ten years would
produce an average annual total return of 7.18%, which is the steady
annual rate of return that would equal 100% growth on a compounded
basis in ten years. While average annual total returns are a
convenient means of comparing investment alternatives, investors
should realize that a class's performance is not constant over time,
but changes from year to year, and that average annual total returns
represent averaged figures as opposed to the actual year-to-year
performance of a class.
In addition to average annual total returns, a class may quote
unaveraged or cumulative total returns reflecting the simple change in
value of an investment over a stated period. Average annual and
cumulative total returns may be quoted as a percentage or as a dollar
amount, and may be calculated for a single investment, a series of
investments, or a series of redemptions, over any time period. Total
returns may be broken down into their components of income and capital
(including capital gains and changes in share price) in order to
illustrate the relationship of these factors and their contributions
to total return. Total returns may be quoted on a before-tax or
after-tax basis. Total returns, yields, and other performance
information may be quoted numerically or in a table, graph, or similar
illustration.
NET ASSET VALUE. Charts and graphs using a class's NAVs, adjusted
NAVs, and benchmark indices may be used to exhibit performance. An
adjusted NAV includes any distributions paid by a fund and reflects
all elements of a class's return. Unless otherwise indicated, a
class's adjusted NAVs are not adjusted for sales charges, if any.
MOVING AVERAGES. A growth fund may illustrate performance using moving
averages. A long-term moving average is the average of each week's
adjusted closing NAV for a specified period. A short-term moving
average is the average of each day's adjusted closing NAV for a
specified period. Moving Average Activity Indicators combine adjusted
closing NAVs from the last business day of each week with moving
averages for a specified period to produce indicators showing when an
NAV has crossed, stayed above, or stayed below its moving average.
PERFORMANCE COMPARISONS. A class's performance may be compared to the
performance of other mutual funds in general, or to the performance of
particular types of mutual funds. These comparisons may be expressed
as mutual fund rankings prepared by Lipper Analytical Services, Inc.
(Lipper), an independent service located in Summit, New Jersey that
monitors the performance of mutual funds. Generally, Lipper rankings
are based on total return, assume reinvestment of distributions, do
not take sales charges or trading fees into consideration, and are
prepared without regard to tax consequences. In addition to the mutual
fund rankings, a class's performance may be compared to stock, bond,
and money market mutual fund performance indices prepared by Lipper or
other organizations. When comparing these indices, it is important to
remember the risk and return characteristics of each type of
investment. For example, while stock mutual funds may offer higher
potential returns, they also carry the highest degree of share price
volatility. Likewise, money market funds may offer greater stability
of principal, but generally do not offer the higher potential returns
available from stock mutual funds.
From time to time, a class's performance may also be compared to other
mutual funds tracked by financial or business publications and
periodicals. For example, the fund may quote Morningstar, Inc. in its
advertising materials. Morningstar, Inc. is a mutual fund rating
service that rates mutual funds on the basis of risk-adjusted
performance. Rankings that compare the performance of Fidelity funds
to one another in appropriate categories over specific periods of time
may also be quoted in advertising.
A class's performance may also be compared to that of a benchmark
index representing the universe of securities in which the fund may
invest. The total return of a benchmark index reflects reinvestment of
all dividends and capital gains paid by securities included in the
index. Unlike a class's returns, however, the index returns do not
reflect brokerage commissions, transaction fees, or other costs of
investing directly in the securities included in the index.
The fund may compare its performance to that of the Standard & Poor's
Mid Cap 400 Index, a widely recognized, unmanaged index of 400
medium-capitalization stocks.
The fund may be compared in advertising to Certificates of Deposit
(CDs) or other investments issued by banks or other depository
institutions. Mutual funds differ from bank investments in several
respects. For example, the fund may offer greater liquidity or higher
potential returns than CDs, the fund does not guarantee your principal
or your return, and fund shares are not FDIC insured.
Fidelity may provide information designed to help individuals
understand their investment goals and explore various financial
strategies. Such information may include information about current
economic, market, and political conditions; materials that describe
general principles of investing, such as asset allocation,
diversification, risk tolerance, and goal setting; questionnaires
designed to help create a personal financial profile; worksheets used
to project savings needs based on assumed rates of inflation and
hypothetical rates of return; and action plans offering investment
alternatives. Materials may also include discussions of Fidelity's
asset allocation funds and other Fidelity funds, products, and
services.
Ibbotson Associates of Chicago, Illinois (Ibbotson) provides
historical returns of the capital markets in the United States,
including common stocks, small capitalization stocks, long-term
corporate bonds, intermediate-term government bonds, long-term
government bonds, Treasury bills, the U.S. rate of inflation (based on
the CPI), and combinations of various capital markets. The performance
of these capital markets is based on the returns of different indices.
Fidelity funds may use the performance of these capital markets in
order to demonstrate general risk-versus-reward investment scenarios.
Performance comparisons may also include the value of a hypothetical
investment in any of these capital markets. The risks associated with
the security types in any capital market may or may not correspond
directly to those of the funds. Ibbotson calculates total returns in
the same method as the funds. The funds may also compare performance
to that of other compilations or indices that may be developed and
made available in the future.
In advertising materials, Fidelity may reference or discuss its
products and services, which may include other Fidelity funds;
retirement investing; brokerage products and services; model
portfolios or allocations; saving for college or other goals; and
charitable giving. In addition, Fidelity may quote or reprint
financial or business publications and periodicals as they relate to
current economic and political conditions, fund management, portfolio
composition, investment philosophy, investment techniques, the
desirability of owning a particular mutual fund, and Fidelity services
and products. Fidelity may also reprint, and use as advertising and
sales literature, articles from Fidelity Focus(registered trademark),
a quarterly magazine provided free of charge to Fidelity fund
shareholders.
In advertising materials and registration statements, Fidelity and
insurance companies may refer to each portfolio of Variable Insurance
Products Fund (VIP), Variable Insurance Products Fund II (VIP II), and
Variable Insurance Products Fund III (VIP III) either with or without
the name "Fidelity" before the trust's name (or acronym). In either
case, however, the trust's name (or acronym) will appear before the
portfolio's name to distinguish the portfolio from other Fidelity
funds.
A fund may be advertised as part of certain asset allocation programs
involving other Fidelity or non-Fidelity mutual funds. These asset
allocation programs may advertise a model portfolio and its
performance results.
A fund may present its fund number, Quotron(trademark) number, and
CUSIP number, and discuss or quote its current portfolio manager.
VOLATILITY. A class of the fund may quote various measures of
volatility and benchmark correlation in advertising. In addition, the
fund may compare these measures to those of other funds. Measures of
volatility seek to compare a class's historical share price
fluctuations or total returns to those of a benchmark. Measures of
benchmark correlation indicate how valid a comparative benchmark may
be. All measures of volatility and correlation are calculated using
averages of historical data.
MOMENTUM INDICATORS indicate price movements over specific periods of
time for each class of the fund. Each point on the momentum indicator
represents the class's percentage change in price movements over that
period.
The fund may advertise examples of the effects of periodic investment
plans, including the principle of dollar cost averaging. In such a
program, an investor invests a fixed dollar amount in a fund at
periodic intervals, thereby purchasing fewer shares when prices are
high and more shares when prices are low. While such a strategy does
not assure a profit or guard against loss in a declining market, the
investor's average cost per share can be lower than if fixed numbers
of shares are purchased at the same intervals. In evaluating such a
plan, investors should consider their ability to continue purchasing
shares during periods of low price levels.
The fund is available only through the purchase of variable annuity
and variable life insurance contracts offering deferral of income
taxes on earnings, which may produce superior after-tax returns over
time. For example, a $1,000 investment earning a taxable return of 10%
annually would have an after-tax value of $1,949 after ten years,
assuming tax was deducted from the return each year at a 31% rate. An
equivalent tax-deferred investment would have an after-tax value of
$2,100 after ten years, assuming tax was deducted at a 31% rate from
the tax-deferred earnings at the end of the ten-year period.
Individuals holding shares of a fund through a variable annuity or
variable life insurance contract may receive additional tax benefits
from the deferral of income taxes associated with variable contracts.
Individuals should consult their tax advisors to determine the effect
of holding variable contracts on their individual tax situations.
As of _____________, FMR advised over $__ billion in municipal fund
assets, $__ billion in money market fund assets, $___ billion in
equity fund assets, $__ billion in international fund assets, and $__
billion in Spartan fund assets. The fund may reference the growth and
variety of money market mutual funds and the adviser's innovation and
participation in the industry. The equity funds under management
figure represents the largest amount of equity fund assets under
management by a mutual fund investment adviser in the United States,
making FMR America's leading equity (stock) fund manager. FMR, its
subsidiaries, and affiliates maintain a worldwide information and
communications network for the purpose of researching and managing
investments abroad.
YIELDS AND TOTAL RETURNS QUOTED FOR A CLASS INCLUDE THE CLASS'S
EXPENSES, BUT MAY NOT INCLUDE CHARGES AND EXPENSES ATTRIBUTABLE TO ANY
PARTICULAR INSURANCE PRODUCT. BECAUSE YOU CAN PURCHASE SHARES OF THE
FUND ONLY THROUGH A VARIABLE ANNUITY AND/OR A VARIABLE LIFE INSURANCE
CONTRACT, YOU SHOULD CAREFULLY REVIEW THE PROSPECTUS OF THE INSURANCE
PRODUCT YOU HAVE CHOSEN FOR INFORMATION ON RELEVANT CHARGES AND
EXPENSES. Excluding these charges from quotations of a class's
performance has the effect of increasing the performance quoted.
ADDITIONAL PURCHASE AND REDEMPTION INFORMATION
The fund is open for business and its net asset value per share (NAV)
is calculated each day the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) is open for
trading. The NYSE has designated the following holiday closings for
1998: New Year's Day, Martin Luther King's Birthday, Presidents' Day,
Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day (observed), Labor Day,
Thanksgiving Day, and Christmas Day. Although FMR expects the same
holiday schedule to be observed in the future, the NYSE may modify its
holiday schedule at any time. In addition, on days when the Federal
Reserve Wire System is closed, federal funds wires cannot be sent.
FSC normally determines each class's NAV as of the close of the NYSE
(normally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time). However, NAV may be calculated
earlier if trading on the NYSE is restricted or as permitted by the
SEC. To the extent that portfolio securities are traded in other
markets on days when the NYSE is closed, a class's NAV may be affected
on days when investors do not have access to the fund to purchase or
redeem shares. In addition, trading in some of a fund's portfolio
securities may not occur on days when the fund is open for business.
If the Trustees determine that existing conditions make cash payments
undesirable, redemption payments may be made in whole or in part in
securities or other property, valued for this purpose as they are
valued in computing class's NAV. Shareholders receiving securities or
other property on redemption may realize a gain or loss for tax
purposes, and will incur any costs of sale, as well as the associated
inconveniences.
DISTRIBUTIONS AND TAXES
For a discussion of tax consequences of variable contracts, please
refer to your insurance company's separate account prospectus.
Variable contracts purchased through insurance company separate
accounts provide for the accumulation of all earnings from interest,
dividends, and capital appreciation without current federal income tax
liability to the owner. Depending on the variable contract,
distributions from the contract may be subject to ordinary income tax
and a 10% penalty tax on distributions before age 59. Only the portion
of a distribution attributable to income is subject to federal income
tax. Investors should consult with competent tax advisers for a more
complete discussion of possible tax consequences in a particular
situation.
Section 817(h) of the Internal Revenue Code provides that the
investments of a separate account underlying a variable insurance
contract (or the investments of a mutual fund, the shares of which are
owned by the variable separate account) must be "adequately
diversified" in order for the contract to be treated as an annuity or
life insurance for tax purposes. The Treasury Department has issued
regulations prescribing these diversification requirements. The fund
intends to comply with these requirements.
TAX STATUS OF THE FUND. The fund intends to qualify each year as a
"regulated investment company" for tax purposes so that it will not be
liable for federal tax on income and capital gains distributed to
shareholders. In order to qualify as a regulated investment company
and avoid being subject to federal income or excise taxes at the fund
level, the fund intends to distribute substantially all of its net
investment income and net realized capital gains within each calendar
year as well as on a fiscal year basis, and intends to comply with
other tax rules applicable to regulated investment companies. Income
and capital gain distributions are reinvested in additional shares of
the same class of the fund. This is done to preserve the
tax-advantaged status of the variable contracts.
If a fund purchases shares in certain foreign investment entities,
defined as passive foreign investment companies (PFICs) in the
Internal Revenue Code, it may be subject to U.S. federal income tax on
a portion of any excess distribution or gain from the disposition of
such shares. Interest charges may also be imposed on a fund with
respect to deferred taxes arising from such distributions or gains.
Generally, the fund will elect to mark-to-market any PFIC shares.
Unrealized gains will be recognized as income for tax purposes and
must be distributed to shareholders as dividends.
The fund is treated as a separate entity from the other funds, if any,
of its trust for tax purposes.
FMR
All of the stock of FMR is owned by FMR Corp., its parent organized in
1972. The voting common stock of FMR Corp. is divided into two
classes. Class B is held predominantly by members of the Edward C.
Johnson 3d family and is entitled to 49% of the vote on any matter
acted upon by the voting common stock. Class A is held predominantly
by non-Johnson family member employees of FMR Corp. and its affiliates
and is entitled to 51% of the vote on any such matter. The Johnson
family group and all other Class B shareholders have entered into a
shareholders' voting agreement under which all Class B shares will be
voted in accordance with the majority vote of Class B shares. Under
the 1940 Act, control of a company is presumed where one individual or
group of individuals owns more than 25% of the voting stock of that
company. Therefore, through their ownership of voting common stock and
the execution of the shareholders' voting agreement, members of the
Johnson family may be deemed, under the 1940 Act, to form a
controlling group with respect to FMR Corp.
At present, the principal operating activities of FMR Corp. are those
conducted by its division, Fidelity Investments Retail Marketing
Company, which provides marketing services to various companies within
the Fidelity organization.
Fidelity investment personnel may invest in securities for their own
accounts pursuant to a code of ethics that sets forth all employees'
fiduciary responsibilities regarding the funds, establishes procedures
for personal investing and restricts certain transactions. For
example, all personal trades in most securities require pre-clearance,
and participation in initial public offerings is prohibited. In
addition, restrictions on the timing of personal investing in relation
to trades by Fidelity funds and on short-term trading have been
adopted.
TRUSTEES AND OFFICERS
The Trustees, Members of the Advisory Board, and executive officers of
the trust are listed below. Except as indicated, each individual has
held the office shown or other offices in the same company for the
last five years. All persons named as Trustees and Members of the
Advisory Board also serve in similar capacities for other funds
advised by FMR. The business address of each Trustee, Member of the
Advisory Board, and officer who is an "interested person" (as defined
in the 1940 Act) is 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02109,
which is also the address of FMR. The business address of all the
other Trustees is Fidelity Investments, P.O. Box 9235, Boston,
Massachusetts 02205-9235. Those Trustees who are "interested persons"
by virtue of their affiliation with either the trust or FMR are
indicated by an asterisk (*).
*EDWARD C. JOHNSON 3d ( ), Trustee and President, is Chairman, Chief
Executive Officer and a Director of FMR Corp.; a Director and Chairman
of the Board and of the Executive Committee of FMR; Chairman and a
Director of Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc. (1998),
Fidelity Management & Research (U.K.) Inc., and Fidelity Management &
Research (Far East) Inc. Abigail Johnson, Vice President of certain
Equity Funds, is Mr. Johnson's daughter.
J. GARY BURKHEAD ( ), Member of the Advisory Board (1997), is Vice
Chairman and a Member of the Board of Directors of FMR Corp. (1997),
and President of Fidelity Personal Investments and Brokerage Group
(1997). Previously, Mr. Burkhead served as President of Fidelity
Management & Research Company.
RALPH F. COX ( ), Trustee, is President of RABAR Enterprises
(management consulting - engineering industry, 1994). Prior to
February 1994, he was President of Greenhill Petroleum Corporation
(petroleum exploration and production). Until March 1990, Mr. Cox was
President and Chief Operating Officer of Union Pacific Resources
Company (exploration and production). He is a Director of USA Waste
Services, Inc. (non-hazardous waste, 1993), CH2M Hill Companies
(engineering), Rio Grande, Inc. (oil and gas production), and Daniel
Industries (petroleum measurement equipment manufacturer). In
addition, he is a member of advisory boards of Texas A&M University
and the University of Texas at Austin.
PHYLLIS BURKE DAVIS ( ), Trustee. Prior to her retirement in September
1991, Mrs. Davis was the Senior Vice President of Corporate Affairs of
Avon Products, Inc. She is currently a Director of BellSouth
Corporation (telecommunications), Eaton Corporation (manufacturing,
1991), and the TJX Companies, Inc. (retail stores), and previously
served as a Director of Hallmark Cards, Inc. (1985-1991) and Nabisco
Brands, Inc. In addition, she is a member of the President's Advisory
Council of The University of Vermont School of Business
Administration.
ROBERT M. GATES ( ), Trustee (1997), is a consultant, author, and
lecturer (1993). Mr. Gates was Director of the Central Intelligence
Agency (CIA) from 1991-1993. From 1989 to 1991, Mr. Gates served as
Assistant to the President of the United States and Deputy National
Security Advisor. Mr. Gates is a Director of LucasVarity PLC
(automotive components and diesel engines), Charles Stark Draper
Laboratory (non-profit), NACCO Industries, Inc. (mining and
manufacturing), and TRW Inc. (original equipment and replacement
products). Mr. Gates also is a Trustee of the Forum for International
Policy and of the Endowment Association of the College of William and
Mary. In addition, he is a member of the National Executive Board of
the Boy Scouts of America.
E. BRADLEY JONES ( ), Trustee. Prior to his retirement in 1984, Mr.
Jones was Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of LTV Steel Company.
He is a Director of TRW Inc. (original equipment and replacement
products), Consolidated Rail Corporation, Birmingham Steel
Corporation, and RPM, Inc. (manufacturer of chemical products), and he
previously served as a Director of NACCO Industries, Inc. (mining and
manufacturing, 1985-1995), Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Inc.
(1985-1995), and Cleveland-Cliffs Inc. (mining), and as a Trustee of
First Union Real Estate Investments. In addition, he serves as a
Trustee of the Cleveland Clinic Foundation, where he has also been a
member of the Executive Committee as well as Chairman of the Board and
President, a Trustee and member of the Executive Committee of
University School (Cleveland), and a Trustee of Cleveland Clinic
Florida.
DONALD J. KIRK ( ), Trustee, is Executive-in-Residence (1995) at
Columbia University Graduate School of Business and a financial
consultant. From 1987 to January 1995, Mr. Kirk was a Professor at
Columbia University Graduate School of Business. Prior to 1987, he was
Chairman of the Financial Accounting Standards Board. Mr. Kirk is a
Director of General Re Corporation (reinsurance), and he previously
served as a Director of Valuation Research Corp. (appraisals and
valuations, 1993-1995). In addition, he serves as Chairman of the
Board of Directors of the National Arts Stabilization Inc., Chairman
of the Board of Trustees of the Greenwich Hospital Association,
Director of the Yale-New Haven Health Services Corp. (1998), a Member
of the Public Oversight Board of the American Institute of Certified
Public Accountants' SEC Practice Section (1995), and as a Public
Governor of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.
(1996).
*PETER S. LYNCH ( ), Trustee, is Vice Chairman and Director of FMR.
Prior to May 31, 1990, he was a Director of FMR and Executive Vice
President of FMR (a position he held until March 31, 1991); Vice
President of Fidelity Magellan Fund and FMR Growth Group Leader; and
Managing Director of FMR Corp. Mr. Lynch was also Vice President of
Fidelity Investments Corporate Services (1991-1992). In addition, he
serves as a Trustee of Boston College, Massachusetts Eye & Ear
Infirmary, Historic Deerfield (1989) and Society for the Preservation
of New England Antiquities, and as an Overseer of the Museum of Fine
Arts of Boston.
WILLIAM O. McCOY ( ), Trustee (1997), is the Vice President of Finance
for the University of North Carolina (16-school system, 1995). Prior
to his retirement in December 1994, Mr. McCoy was Vice Chairman of the
Board of BellSouth Corporation (telecommunications, 1984) and
President of BellSouth Enterprises (1986). He is currently a Director
of Liberty Corporation (holding company, 1984), Weeks Corporation of
Atlanta (real estate, 1994), Carolina Power and Light Company
(electric utility, 1996) and the Kenan Transport Co. (1996).
Previously, he was a Director of First American Corporation (bank
holding company, 1979-1996). In addition, Mr. McCoy serves as a member
of the Board of Visitors for the University of North Carolina at
Chapel Hill (1994) and for the Kenan-Flager Business School
(University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, 1988).
GERALD C. McDONOUGH ( ), Trustee and Chairman of the non-interested
Trustees, is Chairman of G.M. Management Group (strategic advisory
services). Mr. McDonough is a Director of York International Corp.
(air conditioning and refrigeration), Commercial Intertech Corp.
(hydraulic systems, building systems, and metal products, 1992), CUNO,
Inc. (liquid and gas filtration products, 1996), and Associated
Estates Realty Corporation (a real estate investment trust, 1993). Mr.
McDonough served as a Director of ACME-Cleveland Corp. (metal working,
telecommunications, and electronic products) from 1987-1996 and
Brush-Wellman Inc. (metal refining) from 1983-1997.
MARVIN L. MANN ( ), Trustee (1993), is Chairman of the Board, Lexmark
International, Inc. (office machines, 1991). Prior to 1991, he held
the positions of Vice President of International Business Machines
Corporation ("IBM") and President and General Manager of various IBM
divisions and subsidiaries. Mr. Mann is a Director of M.A. Hanna
Company (chemicals, 1993), Imation Corp. (imaging and information
storage, 1997).
ROBERT C. POZEN ( ), Trustee (1997) and Senior Vice President, is also
President and a Director of FMR (1997); and President and a Director
of Fidelity Investments Money Management, Inc. (1998), Fidelity
Management & Research (U.K.) Inc. (1997), and Fidelity Management &
Research (Far East) Inc. (1997). Previously, Mr. Pozen served as
General Counsel, Managing Director, and Senior Vice President of FMR
Corp.
THOMAS R. WILLIAMS ( ), Trustee, is President of The Wales Group, Inc.
(management and financial advisory services). Prior to retiring in
1987, Mr. Williams served as Chairman of the Board of First Wachovia
Corporation (bank holding company), and Chairman and Chief Executive
Officer of The First National Bank of Atlanta and First Atlanta
Corporation (bank holding company). He is currently a Director of
ConAgra, Inc. (agricultural products), Georgia Power Company (electric
utility), National Life Insurance Company of Vermont, American
Software, Inc., and AppleSouth, Inc. (restaurants, 1992).
ABIGAIL P. JOHNSON ( ), is Vice President of certain Equity Funds
(1997), and is a Director of FMR Corp. (1994). Before assuming her
current responsibilities, Ms. Johnson managed a number of Fidelity
funds. Edward C. Johnson 3d, Trustee and President of the Funds, is
Ms. Johnson's father.
ROBERT A. LAWRENCE ( ), is Vice President of certain Equity Funds
(1997), Vice President of Fidelity Real Estate High Income Fund (1995)
and Fidelity Real Estate High Income Fund II (1996), and Senior Vice
President of FMR (1993).
KATHERINE COLLINS ( ), is manager of VIP III Mid Cap Portfolio, which
she has managed since December 1998. She also manages another
Fidelity fund. Since joining Fidleity in 1990, Ms. Collins has worked
as an analyst and manager.
RICHARD A. SPILLANE, JR. ( ), is Vice President of certain Equity
Funds and Senior Vice President of FMR (1997). Since joining Fidelity,
Mr. Spillane is Chief Investment Officer for Fidelity International,
Limited. Prior to that position, Mr. Spillane served as Director of
Research.
ERIC D. ROITER ( ), Secretary (1998), is Vice President (1998) and
General Counsel of FMR (1998). Mr. Roiter was an Adjunct Member,
Faculty of Law, at Columbia University Law School (1996-1997). Prior
to joining Fidelity, Mr. Roiter was a partner at Debevoise & Plimpton
(1981-1997) and served as an Assistant General Counsel of the U.S.
Securities and Exchange Commission (1979-1981).
RICHARD A. SILVER ( ), Treasurer (1997), is Treasurer of the Fidelity
funds and is an employee of FMR (1997). Before joining FMR, Mr. Silver
served as Executive Vice President, Fund Accounting & Administration
at First Data Investor Services Group, Inc. (1996-1997). Prior to
1996, Mr. Silver was Senior Vice President and Chief Financial Officer
at The Colonial Group, Inc. Mr. Silver also served as Chairman of the
Accounting/Treasurer's Committee of the Investment Company Institute
(1987-1993).
JOHN H. COSTELLO ( ), Assistant Treasurer, is an employee of FMR.
LEONARD M. RUSH ( ), Assistant Treasurer (1994), is an employee of FMR
(1994). Prior to becoming Assistant Treasurer of the Fidelity funds,
Mr. Rush was Chief Compliance Officer of FMR Corp. (1993-1994) and
Chief Financial Officer of Fidelity Brokerage Services, Inc.
(1990-1993).
The following table sets forth an estimate describing the compensation
of each Trustee and Member of the Advisory Board of the fund for his
or her services for the fiscal year ended December 31, 1999, or the
calendar year ended December 31, 1997, as applicable.
COMPENSATION TABLE
Trustees and Aggregate Total
Members of the Advisory Board Compensation Compensation
from the from the
Fund B,+ Fund Complex*,A
J. Gary Burkhead** $ 0 $ 0
Ralph F. Cox $ 25 $ 214,500
Phyllis Burke Davis $ 25 $ 210,000
Robert M. Gates*** $ 25 $176,000
Edward C. Johnson 3d ** $ 0 $ 0
E. Bradley Jones $ 25 $ 211,500
Donald J. Kirk $ 25 $ 211,500
Peter S. Lynch** $ 0 $ 0
William O. McCoy**** $ 25 $ 214,500
Gerald C. McDonough $ 31 $ 264,500
Marvin L. Mann $ 25 $ 214,500
Robert C. Pozen** $ 0 $ 0
Thomas R. Williams $ 25 $ 214,500
* Information is for the calendar year ended December 31, 1997 for 230
funds in the complex.
** Interested Trustees of the fund and Mr. Burkhead are compensated by
FMR.
*** Mr. Gates was appointed to the Board of Trustees of Variable
Insurance Products Fund III effective March 1, 1997.
**** Mr. McCoy was appointed to the Board of Trustees of Variable
Insurance Products Fund III effective January 1, 1997.
+ Figures presented are estimated for the fund's first full fiscal
year ending December 31, 1999.
A Compensation figures include cash and amounts required to be
deferred, and may include amounts deferred at the election of
Trustees. For the calendar year ended December 31, 1997, the Trustees
accrued required deferred compensation from the funds as follows:
Ralph F. Cox, $75,000; Phyllis Burke Davis, $75,000; Robert M. Gates,
$62,500; E. Bradley Jones, $75,000; Donald J. Kirk, $75,000; William
O. McCoy, $75,000; Gerald C. McDonough, $87,500; Marvin L. Mann,
$75,000; and Thomas R. Williams, $75,000. Certain of the
non-interested Trustees elected voluntarily to defer a portion of
their compensation: Ralph F. Cox, $53,699; Marvin L. Mann, $53,699;
and Thomas R. Williams, $62,462.
B Compensation figures include cash.
Under a deferred compensation plan adopted in September 1995 and
amended in November 1996 (the Plan), non-interested Trustees must
defer receipt of a portion of, and may elect to defer receipt of an
additional portion of, their annual fees. Amounts deferred under the
Plan are subject to vesting and are treated as though equivalent
dollar amounts had been invested in shares of a cross-section of
Fidelity funds including funds in each major investment discipline and
representing a majority of Fidelity's assets under management (the
Reference Funds). The amounts ultimately received by the Trustees
under the Plan will be directly linked to the investment performance
of the Reference Funds. Deferral of fees in accordance with the Plan
will have a negligible effect on a fund's assets, liabilities, and net
income per share, and will not obligate a fund to retain the services
of any Trustee or to pay any particular level of compensation to the
Trustee. A fund may invest in the Reference Funds under the Plan
without shareholder approval.
As of the public offering of shares of the fund, 100% of the each
classes total outstanding shares were held by FMR, or its affiliates.
FMR Corp. is the ultimate parent company of FMR and these affiliates.
By virtue of his ownership interests in FMR Corp., as described in the
"FMR" section on page 28, Mr. Edward C. Johnson 3d, President and
Trustee of the fund, may be deemed to be a beneficial owner of these
shares.
A shareholder owning of record or beneficially more than 25% of a
fund's outstanding shares may be considered a controlling person. That
shareholder's vote could have a more significant effect on matters
presented at a shareholders' meeting than votes of other shareholders.
MANAGEMENT CONTRACT
The fund has entered into a management contract with FMR, pursuant to
which FMR furnishes investment advisory and other services.
MANAGEMENT SERVICES. Under the terms of its management contract with
the fund, FMR acts as investment adviser and, subject to the
supervision of the Board of Trustees, directs the investments of the
fund in accordance with its investment objective, policies, and
limitations. FMR also provides the fund with all necessary office
facilities and personnel for servicing the fund's investments,
compensates all officers of the fund and all Trustees who are
"interested persons" of the trust or of FMR, and all personnel of the
fund or FMR performing services relating to research, statistical, and
investment activities.
In addition, FMR or its affiliates, subject to the supervision of the
Board of Trustees, provide the management and administrative services
necessary for the operation of the fund. These services include
providing facilities for maintaining the fund's organization;
supervising relations with custodians, transfer and pricing agents,
accountants, underwriters, and other persons dealing with the fund;
preparing all general shareholder communications and conducting
shareholder relations; maintaining the fund's records and the
registration of the fund's shares under federal securities laws and
making necessary filings under state securities laws; developing
management and shareholder services for the fund; and furnishing
reports, evaluations, and analyses on a variety of subjects to the
Trustees.
MANAGEMENT-RELATED EXPENSES. In addition to the management fee payable
to FMR and the fees payable to the transfer, dividend disbursing, and
shareholder servicing agent, pricing and bookkeeping agent, and
securities lending agent, as applicable, the fund or each class
thereof, as applicable, pays all of its expenses that are not assumed
by those parties. The fund pays for the typesetting, printing, and
mailing of its proxy materials to shareholders, legal expenses, and
the fees of the custodian, auditor and non-interested Trustees. The
fund's management contract further provides that the fund will pay for
typesetting, printing, and mailing prospectuses, statements of
additional information, notices, and reports to shareholders; however,
under the terms of the fund's transfer agent agreement, the transfer
agent bears the costs of providing these services to existing
shareholders of the applicable classes. Other expenses paid by the
fund include interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, the fund's
proportionate share of insurance premiums and Investment Company
Institute dues, and the costs of registering shares under federal
securities laws and making necessary filings under state securities
laws. The fund is also liable for such non-recurring expenses as may
arise, including costs of any litigation to which the fund may be a
party, and any obligation it may have to indemnify its officers and
Trustees with respect to litigation.
MANAGEMENT FEE. For the services of FMR under the management contract,
the fund pays FMR a monthly management fee which has two components: a
group fee rate and an individual fund fee rate.
The group fee rate is based on the monthly average net assets of all
of the registered investment companies with which FMR has management
contracts.
The following is the fee schedule for the Mid Cap Portfolio.
GROUP FEE RATE SCHEDULE EFFECTIVE ANNUAL FEE RATES
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Average Group Assets Annualized Rate Group Net Assets Effective Annual Fee
Rate
0 - $ 3 billion .5200% $0.5 billion .5200%
3 - 6 .4900 25 .4238
6 - 9 .4600 50 .3823
9 - 12 .4300 75 .3626
12 - 15 .4000 100 .3512
15 - 18 .3850 125 .3430
18 - 21 .3700 150 .3371
21 - 24 .3600 175 .3325
24 - 30 .3500 200 .3284
30 - 36 .3450 225 .3249
36 - 42 .3400 250 .3219
42 - 48 .3350 275 .3190
48 - 66 .3250 300 .3163
66 - 84 .3200 325 .3137
84 - 102 .3150 350 .3113
102 - 138 .3100 375 .3090
138 - 174 .3050 400 .3067
174 - 210 .3000 425 .3046
210 - 246 .2950 450 .3024
246 - 282 .2900 475 .3003
282 - 318 .2850 500 .2982
318 - 354 .2800 525 .2962
354 - 390 .2750 550 .2942
390 - 426 .2700
426 - 462 .2650
462 - 498 .2600
498 - 534 .2550
Over - 534 .2500
</TABLE>
The group fee rate is calculated on a cumulative basis pursuant to the
graduated fee rate schedule shown above on the left. The schedule
above on the right shows the effective annual group fee rate at
various asset levels, which is the result of cumulatively applying the
annualized rates on the left. For example, the effective annual fee
rate at $___ billion of group net assets - the approximate level for
month of fiscal year end 199__ - was, which is the weighted average of
the respective fee rates for each level of group net assets up to $__
billion.
The fund's individual fund fee rate is .30%. Based on the average
group net assets of the funds advised by FMR for [month of fiscal year
end 199__, the stock fund's annual management fee rate would be
calculated as follows:
Group Fee Rate Individual Fund Fee Rate Management Fee Rate
._____% + 0.30% = .____%
One-twelfth of this annual management fee rate is applied to the
fund's net assets averaged for the most recent month, giving a dollar
amount, which is the fee for that month.
FMR may, from time to time, voluntarily reimburse all or a portion of
the class's operating expenses (exclusive of interest, taxes,
brokerage commissions, and extraordinary expenses), which is subject
to revision or termination. FMR retains the ability to be repaid for
these expense reimbursements in the amount that expenses fall below
the limit prior to the end of the fiscal year. Expense reimbursements
by FMR will increase the class's total returns, and repayment of the
reimbursement by the class will lower its total returns.
FMR has voluntarily agreed, subject to revision or termination, to
reimburse a fund if, and to the extent that, its aggregate operating
expenses, including management fees, exceed a specified annual rate
for the fund. The following provides the expense cap information:
(1.00%) for Initial Class shares and (1.10%) for Service Class shares
of the fund.
SUB-ADVISERS. On behalf of the fund, FMR may also grant the
sub-advisers investment management authority as well as the authority
to buy and sell securities if FMR believes it would be beneficial to
the fund.
Currently, FMR U.K. and FMR Far East each focus on issuers in
countries other than the United States such as those in Europe, Asia,
and the Pacific Basin.
FMR U.K. and FMR Far East, which were organized in 1986, are wholly
owned subsidiaries of FMR. Under the sub-advisory agreements FMR pays
the fees of FMR U.K. and FMR Far East. For providing non-discretionary
investment advice and research services, FMR pays FMR U.K. and FMR Far
East fees equal to 110% and 105%, respectively, of FMR U.K.'s and FMR
Far East's costs incurred in connection with providing investment
advice and research services.
On behalf of the fund, for providing discretionary investment
management and executing portfolio transactions, FMR pays FMR U.K. and
FMR Far East a fee equal to 50% of its monthly management fee rate
with respect to the fund's average net assets managed by the
sub-adviser on a discretionary basis.
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE PLANS
The Trustees have approved Distribution and Service Plans on behalf of
Service Class of the fund and Initial Class of the fund (the Plans)
pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act (the Rule). The Rule
provides in substance that a mutual fund may not engage directly or
indirectly in financing any activity that is primarily intended to
result in the sale of shares of the fund except pursuant to a plan
approved on behalf of the fund under the Rule. The Plans, as approved
by the Trustees, allow Service Class and Initial Class of the funds
and FMR to incur certain expenses that might be considered to
constitute direct or indirect payment by the funds of distribution
expenses.
Pursuant to the Service Class Plans for the fund, FDC is paid a
monthly distribution fee at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of Service
Class's average net assets determined at the close of business on each
day throughout the month. Currently, the Trustees have approved a
monthly distribution fee for Service Class with a 12b-1 Plan at an
annual rate of 0.10% of its average net assets. This fee rate may be
increased only when, in the opinion of the Trustees, it is in the best
interests of Variable Product owners to do so. (For purposes of this
discussion, "Variable Product" refers to a variable annuity contract
or variable life insurance policy for which shares of the fund are
available as underlying investment options.)
Under each Plan, if the payment of management fees by the fund to FMR
is deemed to be indirect financing by the fund of the distribution of
its shares, such payment is authorized by the Plan. The Service Class
Plan specifically recognizes that FMR may use its management fee
revenue, as well as its past profits or its other resources, to pay
FDC for expenses incurred in connection with the distribution of
Service Class shares, including payments made to third parties that
engage in the sale of Service Class shares or to third parties,
including banks, that render shareholder support services. The Initial
Class Plan specifically recognizes that FMR may use its management fee
revenue, as well as its past profits or its other resources, to pay
FDC for expenses incurred in connection with the distribution of
Initial Class shares. In addition, the Initial Class Plan provides
that FMR, directly or through FDC, may make payments to third parties,
such as banks or broker-dealers, that engage in the sale of Initial
Class shares, or provide shareholder support services. Currently, the
Board of Trustees has authorized such payments for Service Class and
Initial Class shares.
Payments may be made by FMR, either directly or through FDC, to third
parties.
Prior to approving the Plan, the Trustees carefully considered all
pertinent factors relating to the implementation of the Plan and
determined that there is a reasonable likelihood that the Plan will
benefit the applicable class of the fund and Variable Product owners.
In particular, the Trustees noted that the Initial Class Plan does not
authorize payments by Initial Class of the fund other than those made
to FMR under its management contract with the fund. To the extent that
the Plan gives FMR and FDC greater flexibility in connection with the
distribution of shares of the applicable class, additional sales of
fund shares may result. Furthermore, certain shareholder support
services may be provided more efficiently under the Plans by insurance
companies and their affiliates with whom Variable Product owners have
other relationships.
The Service Class Plan does not provide for specific payments by
Service Class of any of the expenses of FDC, or obligate FDC or FMR to
perform any specific type or level of distribution activities or incur
any specific level of expense in connection with distribution
activities. After payments by FDC for advertising, marketing and
distribution, and payments to third parties, the amounts remaining, if
any, may be used as FDC may elect.
The Glass-Steagall Act generally prohibits federally and state
chartered or supervised banks from engaging in the business of
underwriting, selling, or distributing securities. Although the scope
of this prohibition under the Glass-Steagall Act has not been clearly
defined by the courts or appropriate regulatory agencies, FDC believes
that the Glass-Steagall Act should not preclude a bank from performing
shareholder support services, or servicing and recordkeeping
functions. FDC intends to engage banks only to perform such functions.
However, changes in federal or state statutes and regulations
pertaining to the permissible activities of banks and their affiliates
or subsidiaries, as well as further judicial or administrative
decisions or interpretations, could prevent a bank from continuing to
perform all or a part of the contemplated services. If a bank were
prohibited from so acting, the Trustees would consider what actions,
if any, would be necessary to continue to provide efficient and
effective shareholder services. In such event, changes in the
operation of the funds might occur, including possible termination of
any automatic investment or redemption or other services then provided
by the bank. It is not expected that shareholders would suffer any
adverse financial consequences as a result of any of these
occurrences. In addition, state securities laws on this issue may
differ from the interpretations of federal law expressed herein, and
banks and other financial institutions may be required to register as
dealers pursuant to state law.
The fund may execute portfolio transactions with, and purchase
securities issued by, depository institutions that receive payments
under the Plans. No preference for the instruments of such depository
institutions will be shown in the selection of investments.
CONTRACTS WITH FMR AFFILIATES
The fund has entered into a transfer agent agreement with FIIOC, an
affiliate of FMR. Under the terms of the agreements, FIIOC maintains
the master accounts of the participating insurance companies. For
providing transfer agency services, FIIOC receives an asset-based fee
of 0.067% for each account. For the fund, the asset-based fees are
subject to adjustment if the year-to-date total return of the S&P 500
exceeds a positive or negative 15%. FIIOC pays out-of-pocket expenses
associated with providing transfer agent services. In addition, FIIOC
bears the expense of typesetting, printing and mailing prospectuses,
statements of additional information, and all other reports, notices,
and statements to shareholders allocable to the master account of
participating insurance companies.
The fund has entered into a service agent agreement with FSC, an
affiliate of FMR. Under the terms of the agreements, FSC calculates
the NAV and dividends for each class of the fund, maintains the
portfolio and general accounting records of the fund, and administers
the securities lending program for the fund.
For providing pricing and bookkeeping services, FSC receives a monthly
fee based on the fund's average daily net assets throughout the month.
The annual fee rates for pricing and bookkeeping services are 0.06%
for the first $500 million of average net assets and 0.03% for average
net assets in excess of $500 million. The fee, not including
reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses, for the fund is limited to a
minimum of $60,000 and a maximum of $800,000 per year.
For administering the securities lending program of the fund, FSC
receives fees based on the number and duration of individual
securities loans.
The fund has entered into a distribution agreement with FDC, an
affiliate of FMR organized as a Massachusetts corporation on July 18,
1960. FDC is a broker-dealer registered under the Securities Exchange
Act of 1934 and is a member of the National Association of Securities
Dealers, Inc. The distribution agreements call for FDC to use all
reasonable efforts, consistent with its other business, to secure
purchasers for shares of the fund, which are continuously offered at
NAV. Promotional and administrative expenses in connection with the
offer and sale of shares are paid by FMR.
DESCRIPTION OF THE TRUST
TRUST ORGANIZATION. The fund is a fund of Variable Insurance Products
Fund III, an open-end management investment company organized as a
Massachusetts business trust on July 14, 1994. The name of the trust
was changed from Fidelity Advisor Annuity Fund to Variable Insurance
Products Fund III on December 30, 1996.
The Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to create additional
funds.
Investments in the trust may be made only by the separate accounts of
insurance companies for the purpose of funding variable annuity and
variable life insurance contracts issued by insurance companies.
In the event that FMR ceases to be the investment adviser to a trust
or a fund, the right of the trust or fund to use the identifying name
"Fidelity" may be withdrawn. There is a remote possibility that one
fund might become liable for any misstatement in its prospectus or
statement of additional information about another fund.
The assets of the trust received for the issue or sale of shares of
each of its funds and all income, earnings, profits, and proceeds
thereof, subject only to the rights of creditors, are especially
allocated to such fund, and constitute the underlying assets of such
fund. The underlying assets of the fund are segregated on the books of
account, and are to be charged with the liabilities with respect to
such fund and with a share of the general liabilities of their
respective trusts. Expenses with respect to each trust are to be
allocated in proportion to the asset value of their respective funds,
except where allocations of direct expense can otherwise be fairly
made. The officers of each trust, subject to the general supervision
of the Boards of Trustees, have the power to determine which expenses
are allocable to a given fund, or which are general or allocable to
all of the funds of a certain trust. In the event of the dissolution
or liquidation of a trust, shareholders of the fund of the trust are
entitled to receive as a class the underlying assets of such fund
available for distribution.
SHAREHOLDER AND TRUSTEE LIABILITY. The trust is an entity of the type
commonly known as a "Massachusetts business trust." Under
Massachusetts law, shareholders of such a trust may, under certain
circumstances, be held personally liable for the obligations of the
trust. The Declaration of Trust provides that the trust shall not have
any claim against shareholders except for the payment of the purchase
price of shares and requires that each agreement, obligation, or
instrument entered into or executed by the trust or its Trustees shall
include a provision limiting the obligations created thereby to the
trust and its assets. The Declaration of Trust provides for
indemnification out of the fund's property of any shareholder held
personally liable for the obligations of the fund. The Declaration of
Trust also provides that its funds shall, upon request, assume the
defense of any claim made against any shareholder for any act or
obligation of the fund and satisfy any judgment thereon. Thus, the
risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss on account of
shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which the fund
itself would be unable to meet its obligations. FMR believes that, in
view of the above, the risk of personal liability to shareholders is
remote.
The Declaration of Trust further provides that the Trustees, if they
have exercised reasonable care, will not be liable for any neglect or
wrongdoing, but nothing in the Declarations of Trust protects Trustees
against any liability to which they would otherwise be subject by
reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence, or
reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of their
office. Claims asserted against one class of shares of a fund may
subject holders of another class of shares of that fund to certain
liabilities.
VOTING RIGHTS. The fund's capital consists of shares of beneficial
interest. Shareholders of the fund receive one vote for each dollar
value of net asset value they own. The shares have no preemptive or
conversion rights; the voting and dividend rights and the right of
redemption are described in the Prospectus. Shares are fully paid and
nonassessable, except as set forth under the heading "Shareholder and
Trustee Liability" above. Shareholders representing 10% or more of a
trust or fund may, as set forth in the Declaration of Trust, call
meetings of a trust or fund for any purpose related to the trust or
fund, as the case may be, including, in the case of a meeting of an
entire trust, the purpose of voting on removal of one or more
Trustees. The trust or fund may be terminated upon the sale of its
assets to another open-end management investment company, or upon
liquidation and distribution of its assets, if approved by vote of the
holders of a majority of Variable Insurance Products Fund III or its
funds, as determined by the current value of each such shareholder's
investment in the trust or fund. If not so terminated, the trust or
fund will continue indefinitely.
CUSTODIAN. Brown Brothers Harriman & Co., 40 Water Street, Boston,
Massachusetts is custodian of the assets of the fund. The custodian
is responsible for the safekeeping of a fund's assets and the
appointment of any subcustodian banks and clearing agencies. The
custodians take no part in determining the investment policies of a
funds or in deciding which securities are purchased or sold by a fund.
However, a fund may invest in obligations of the custodians and may
purchase securities from or sell securities to the custodians. The
Bank of New York and The Chase Manhattan Bank, each headquartered in
New York, also may serve as special purpose custodians of certain
assets in connection with repurchase agreement transactions.
FMR, its officers and directors, its affiliated companies, and the
Board of Trustees may, from time to time, conduct transactions with
various banks, including banks serving as custodians for certain funds
advised by FMR. The Boston branch of Brown Brothers Harriman & Co.
leases its office space from an affiliate of FMR at a lease payment
which, when entered into, was consistent with prevailing market rates.
Transactions that have occurred to date include mortgages and personal
and general business loans. In the judgment of FMR, the terms and
conditions of those transactions were not influenced by existing or
potential custodial or other fund relationships.
AUDITOR. Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP, 160 Federal Street, Boston,
Massachusetts serves as the independent accountant of Variable
Insurance Products Fund III. The auditor examines financial statements
for the fund and provides other audit, tax, and related services.
APPENDIX
DESCRIPTION OF MOODY'S INVESTORS SERVICE RATINGS OF CORPORATE BONDS
Moody's ratings for obligations with an original remaining maturity in
excess of one year fall within nine categories. They range from Aaa
(highest quality) to C (lowest quality). Moody's applies numerical
modifiers of 1, 2, or 3 to each generic rating classification from Aa
through B. The modifier 1 indicates that the security ranks in the
higher end of its generic rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a
mid-range ranking; and the modifier 3 indicates that the issue ranks
on the lower end of its generic rating category.
AAA - Bonds that are rated Aaa are judged to be of the best quality.
They carry the smallest degree of investment risk and are generally
referred to as "gilt edged." Interest payments are protected by a
large or by an exceptionally stable margin and principal is secure.
While the various protective elements are likely to change, such
changes as can be visualized are most unlikely to impair the
fundamentally strong position of such issues.
AA - Bonds that are rated Aa are judged to be of high quality by all
standards. Together with the Aaa group they comprise what are
generally known as high-grade bonds. They are rated lower than the
best bonds because margins of protection may not be as large as in Aaa
securities or fluctuation of protective elements may be of greater
amplitude or there may be other elements present which make the
long-term risks appear somewhat larger than the Aaa securities.
A - Bonds that are rated A possess many favorable investment
attributes and are to be considered as upper-medium-grade obligations.
Factors giving security to principal and interest are considered
adequate but elements may be present which suggest a susceptibility to
impairment sometime in the future.
BAA - Bonds that are rated Baa are considered as medium-grade
obligations, (i.e., they are neither highly protected nor poorly
secured). Interest payments and principal security appear adequate for
the present but certain protective elements may be lacking or may be
characteristically unreliable over any great length of time. Such
bonds lack outstanding investment characteristics and in fact have
speculative characteristics as well.
BA - Bonds that are rated Ba are judged to have speculative elements;
their future cannot be considered as well assured. Often the
protection of interest and principal payments may be very moderate and
thereby not well safeguarded during both good and bad times over the
future. Uncertainty of position characterizes bonds in this class.
B - Bonds that are rated B generally lack characteristics of the
desirable investment. Assurance of interest and principal payments or
of maintenance of other terms of the contract over any long period of
time may be small.
CAA - Bonds that are rated Caa are of poor standing. Such issues may
be in default or there may be present elements of danger with respect
to principal or interest.
CA - Bonds that are rated Ca represent obligations which are
speculative in a high degree. Such issues are often in default or have
other marked short-comings.
C - Bonds that are rated C are the lowest-rated class of bonds and
issues so rated can be regarded as having extremely poor prospects of
ever attaining any real investment standing.
DESCRIPTION OF STANDARD & POOR'S RATINGS OF CORPORATE BONDS
Debt issues may be designated by Standard & Poor's as either
investment grade ("AAA" through "BBB") or speculative grade ("BB"
through "D"). While speculative grade debt will likely have some
quality and protective characteristics, these are outweighed by large
uncertainties or major exposures to adverse conditions. Ratings from
AA to CCC may be modified by the addition of a plus sign (+) or minus
sign (-) to show relative standing within the major rating categories.
AAA - Debt rated AAA has the highest rating assigned by Standard &
Poor's to a debt obligation. Capacity to pay interest and repay
principal is extremely strong.
AA - Debt rated AA has a very strong capacity to pay interest and
repay principal and differs from the higher-rated issues only in small
degree.
A - Debt rated A has a strong capacity to pay interest and repay
principal, although it is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse
effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than debt
in higher rated categories.
BBB - Debt rated BBB is regarded as having an adequate capacity to pay
interest and repay principal. Whereas it normally exhibits adequate
protection parameters, adverse economic conditions or changing
circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to pay
interest and repay principal for debt in this category than in
higher-rated categories.
BB - Debt rated BB has less near-term vulnerability to default than
other speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing
uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic
conditions which could lead to inadequate capacity to meet timely
interest and principal payments. The BB rating category is also used
for debt subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or
implied BBB- rating.
B - Debt rated B has a greater vulnerability to default but currently
has the capacity to meet interest payments and principal repayments.
Adverse business, financial, or economic conditions will likely impair
capacity or willingness to pay interest and repay principal. The B
rating category is also used for debt subordinated to senior debt that
is assigned an actual or implied BB or BB- rating.
CCC - Debt rated CCC has a currently identifiable vulnerability to
default, and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and
economic conditions to meet timely payment of interest and repayment
of principal. In the event of adverse business, financial, or economic
conditions, it is not likely to have the capacity to pay interest and
repay principal. The CCC rating category is also used for debt
subordinated to senior debt that is assigned an actual or implied B or
B- rating.
CC - The rating CC is typically applied to debt subordinated to senior
debt which is assigned an actual or implied CCC debt rating.
C - The rating C is typically applied to debt subordinated to senior
debt which is assigned an actual or implied CCC- debt rating. The C
rating may be used to cover a situation where a bankruptcy petition
has been filed but debt service payments are continued.
CI - The rating CI is reserved for income bonds on which no interest
is being paid.
D - Debt rated D is in payment default. The D rating category is used
when interest payments or principal payments are not made on the date
due even if the applicable grace period has not expired, unless S&P
believes that such payments will be made during such grace period. The
D rating will also be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition if
debt service payments are jeopardized.
PART C. OTHER INFORMATION
Item 24. Financial Statements and Exhibits
(a) 1. Not Applicable.
(b) Exhibits:
(1) (a) Declaration of Trust, dated July 14, 1994, is incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit 1 to the Registration Statement filed
on July 29, 1994.
(b) Supplement to the Declaration of Trust, dated December 30,
1996, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 1(b) to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 8.
(2) By-Laws for Fidelity Advisor Annuity Fund (currently
Variable Insurance Products Fund III) are incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 2 to the Registration Statement filed on July 29
1994.
(3) Not Applicable.
(4) Not Applicable.
(5) (a) Management Contract between Fidelity Advisor Annuity Growth
Opportunities Fund (currently Growth Opportunities Portfolio) and
Fidelity Management & Research Company, dated November 18, 1994, is
incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 5(b) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 1.
(b) Management Contract between Fidelity Advisor Annuity Income &
Growth Fund (currently Balanced Portfolio) and Fidelity Management &
Research Company, dated November 18, 1994, is incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 5(c) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1.
(c) Management Contract between Variable Insurance Products Fund III:
Growth & Income Portfolio and Fidelity Management & Research Company,
dated January 1, 1997, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit
5(g) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 7.
(d) Sub-Advisory Agreement among Fidelity Management & Research
Company, Fidelity Management & Research (U.K.) Inc. and Fidelity
Advisor Annuity Fund (currently Variable Insurance Products Fund III)
on behalf of Fidelity Advisor Annuity Growth Opportunities Fund
(currently Growth Opportunities Portfolio), dated November 18, 1994,
is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 5(i) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 1.
(e) Sub-Advisory Agreement among Fidelity Management & Research
Company, Fidelity Management & Research (U.K.) Inc. and Fidelity
Advisor Annuity Fund (currently Variable Insurance Products Fund III)
on behalf of Fidelity Advisor Annuity Income & Growth Fund (currently
Balanced Portfolio), dated November 18, 1994, is incorporated herein
by reference to Exhibit 5(j) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1.
(f) Sub-Advisory Agreement among Fidelity Management & Research
Company, Fidelity Management & Research (U.K.) Inc. and Variable
Insurance Products Fund III on behalf of Growth & Income Portfolio,
dated January 1, 1997, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit
5(m) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 7.
(g) Sub-Advisory Agreement among Fidelity Management & Research
Company, Fidelity Management & Research (Far East) Inc. and Fidelity
Advisor Annuity Fund (currently Variable Insurance Products Fund III)
on behalf of Fidelity Advisor Annuity Growth Opportunities Fund
(currently Growth Opportunities Portfolio), dated November 18, 1994,
is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 5(m) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 1.
(h) Sub-Advisory Agreement among Fidelity Management & Research
Company, Fidelity Management & Research (Far East) Inc. and Fidelity
Advisor Annuity Fund (currently Variable Insurance Products Fund III)
on behalf of Fidelity Advisor Annuity Income & Growth Fund (currently
Balanced Portfolio), dated November 18, 1994, is incorporated herein
by reference to Exhibit 5(n) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1.
(i) Sub-Advisory Agreement among Fidelity Management & Research
Company, Fidelity Management & Research (Far East) Inc. and Variable
Insurance Products Fund III on behalf of Growth & Income Portfolio,
dated January 1, 1997, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit
5(i) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 9.
(j) Form of Management Contract between Variable Insurance Products
Fund III: Mid Cap Portfolio and Fidelity Management & Research Company
is filed herein as Exhibit 5(j).
(k) Form of Sub-Advisory Agreement among Fidelity Management &
Research Company, Fidelity Management & Research (UK) Inc. and
Variable Insurance Products Fund III on behalf of Mid Cap Portfolio is
filed herein as Exhibit 5(k).
(l) Form of Sub-Advisory Agreement among Fidelity Management &
Research Company, Fidelity Management & Research (Far East) Inc. and
Variable Insurance Products Fund III on behalf of Mid Cap Portfolio is
filed herein as Exhibit 5(l).
(6) (a) General Distribution Agreement between Fidelity Advisor
Annuity Growth Opportunities Fund (currently Growth Opportunities
Portfolio) and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, dated November 18,
1994, is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 6(b) to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 1.
(b) General Distribution Agreement between Fidelity Advisor Annuity
Income & Growth Fund (currently Balanced Portfolio) and Fidelity
Distributors Corporation, dated November 18, 1994, is incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit 6(c) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 1.
(c) General Distribution Agreement between Variable Insurance
Products Fund III: Growth & Income Portfolio and Fidelity Distributors
Corporation is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 6(c) to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 9.
(d) Amendments, dated March 14, 1996 and July 15, 1996, to General
Distribution Agreement between Growth Opportunities and Balanced
Portfolios and Fidelity Distributors Corporation, are incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit 6(b) of Fidelity Court Street Trust's
Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 (File No. 2-58774).
(e) Form of Service Contract between Fidelity Distributors
Corporation and "Qualified Recipients" with respect to "Initial Class"
shares is filed herein as Exhibit 6(e).
(f) Form of Service Contract between Fidelity Distributors
Corporation and "Qualified Recipients" with respect to Service Class
shares is filed herein as Exhibit 6(f).
(g) Form of General Distribution Agreement between Variable Insurance
Products Fund III: Mid Cap Portfolio and Fidelity Distributors
Corporation is filed herein as Exhibit 6(g).
(7) (a) Retirement Plan for Non-Interested Person Trustees, Directors
or General Partners, as amended on November 16, 1995, is incorporated
herein by reference to Exhibit 7(a) of Fidelity Select Portfolio's
Post-Effective Amendment No. 54 (File No. 2-69972).
(b) The Fee Deferral Plan for Non-Interested Person Directors and
Trustees of the Fidelity Funds, effective as of September 14, 1995 and
amended through November 14, 1996, is incorporated herein by reference
to Exhibit 7(b) of Fidelity Aberdeen Street Trust's Post-Effective
Amendment No. 19 (File No. 33-43529).
(8) (a) Custodian Agreement, Appendix A, and Appendix C, dated August
1, 1994, between The Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A. and Fidelity Advisor
Annuity Fund (currently Variable Insurance Products Fund III) on
behalf of Income & Growth Fund (currently Balanced Portfolio) is
incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 8(a) of Fidelity
Investment Trust's Post-Effective Amendment No. 59 (File No. 2-90649).
(b) Appendix B, dated September 14, 1995, to the Custodian Agreement,
dated August 1, 1994, between The Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A. and
Fidelity Advisor Annuity Fund (currently Variable Insurance Products
Fund III) on behalf of Income & Growth Fund (currently Balanced
Portfolio) is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 8(b) of
Fidelity Charles Street Trust's Post-Effective Amendment No. 54 (File
No. 2-73133).
(c) Custodian Agreement and Appendix C, dated September 1, 1994,
between Brown Brothers Harriman & Company and Fidelity Advisor Annuity
Fund (currently Variable Insurance Products Fund III) on behalf of
Growth Opportunities Fund (currently Growth Opportunities Portfolio)
is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 8(a) of Fidelity
Commonwealth Trust's Post-Effective Amendment No. 56 (File No.
2-52322).
(d) Appendix A, dated September 14, 1995, to the Custodian Agreement,
dated September 1, 1994, between Brown Brothers Harriman & Company and
Fidelity Advisor Annuity Fund (currently Variable Insurance Products
Fund III) on behalf of Growth Opportunities Fund (currently Growth
Opportunities Portfolio) is incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit 8(b) of Fidelity Mt. Vernon Street Trust's Post-Effective
Amendment No. 33 (File No. 2-79755).
(e) Appendix B, dated September 14, 1995, to the Custodian Agreement,
dated September 1, 1994, between Brown Brothers Harriman & Company and
Fidelity Advisor Annuity Fund (currently Variable Insurance Products
Fund III) on behalf of Growth Opportunities Fund (currently Growth
Opportunities Portfolio) is incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit 8(b) of Fidelity Capital Trust's Post-Effective Amendment No.
63 (File No. 2-61760).
(f) Custodian Agreement and Appendix C, dated August 1, 1994, between
The Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A. and Variable Insurance Products Fund
III on behalf of Growth & Income Portfolio is incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 8(f) of Fidelity Investment Trust's
Post-Effective Amendment No. 59 (File No. 2-90649).
(g) Appendix A, dated May 1, 1997, to the Custodian Agreement, dated
August 1, 1994 between The Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A. and Variable
Insurance Products Fund III on behalf of Growth & Income Portfolio is
incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 8(g) to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 9.
(h) Appendix B, dated September 18, 1997, to the Custodian Agreement,
dated August 1, 1994 between The Chase Manhattan Bank, N.A. and
Variable Insurance Products Fund III on behalf of Growth & Income
Portfolio is incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 8(h) to
Post-Effective Amendment No. 9.
(i) Form of Custodian Agreement and Appendix C, dated September 1,
1994, between Brown Brothers Harriman & Company and Variable Insurance
Products Fund III on behalf of Mid Cap Portfolio is filed herein as
Exhibit 8(i).
(j) Form of Appendix A, dated June 1, 1998, to the Custodian
Agreement, dated September 1, 1994, between Brown Brothers Harriman &
Company and Variable Insurance Products Fund III on behalf of Mid Cap
Portfolio is filed herein as Exhibit 8(j).
(k) Form of Appendix B, dated June 18, 1998, to the Custodian
Agreement, dated September 1, 1994, between Brown Brothers Harriman &
Company and Variable Insurance Products Fund III on behalf of Mid Cap
Portfolio is filed herein as Exhibit 8(k).
(9) None.
(10) Not Applicable.
(11) (a) Not Applicable.
(b) Not Applicable.
(12) Not Applicable.
(13) Not Applicable.
(14) Not Applicable.
(15) (a) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for
Growth & Income Portfolio: Initial Class is incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 15(a) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 9.
(b) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Growth
Opportunities Portfolio: Initial Class is incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 15(b) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 9.
(c) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Balanced
Portfolio: Initial Class is incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit 15(c) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 9.
(d) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Growth &
Income Portfolio: Service Class is incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit 15(d) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 9.
(e) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Growth
Opportunities Portfolio: Service Class is incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 15(e) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 9.
(f) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Balanced
Portfolio: Service Class is incorporated herein by reference to
Exhibit 15(f) to Post-Effective Amendment No. 9.
(g) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Mid Cap
Portfolio: Initial Class is filed herein as Exhibit 15(g).
(h) Distribution and Service Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 for Mid Cap
Portfolio: Service Class is filed herein as Exhibit 15(h).
(16) (a) A schedule for the computation of cumulative total returns
and average annual total returns is incorporated herein by reference
to Exhibit 16 to Post-Effective Amendment No. 3.
(b) A schedule for the computation of a moving average (using
Income & Growth Fund (currently Balanced Portfolio) as an example) is
incorporated herein by reference to Exhibit 16 to Post-Effective
Amendment No. 3.
(17) Not Applicable.
(18) Rule 18f-3 Plan dated March 19, 1998 is incorporated herein by
reference to Exhibit 18 to Post-Effective Amendment No. 11.
Item 25. Persons Controlled by or Under Common Control with Registrant
The Board of Trustees of Registrant is the same as the Board of
Trustees of other funds advised by FMR, each of which has Fidelity
Management and Research Company as its investment adviser. In
addition, the officers of these funds are substantially identical.
Nonetheless, Registrant takes the position that it is not under common
control with these other funds since the power residing in the
respective boards and officers arises as the result of an official
position with the respective funds.
Item 26. Number of Holders of Securities
As of August 31, 1998
Title of Class Number of Record Holders
Growth & Income Portfolio 19
Growth Opportunities Portfolio 34
Balanced Portfolio 14
Mid Cap Portfolio 0
Item 27. Indemnification
Article XI, Section 2 of the Declaration of Trust sets forth the
reasonable and fair means for determining whether indemnification
shall be provided to any past or present Trustee or officer. It states
that the Registrant shall indemnify any present or past Trustee or
officer to the fullest extent permitted by law against liability and
all expenses reasonably incurred by him in connection with any claim,
action, suit, or proceeding in which he is involved by virtue of his
service as a Trustee, an officer, or both. Additionally, amounts paid
or incurred in settlement of such matters are covered by this
indemnification. Indemnification will not be provided in certain
circumstances, however. These include instances of willful
misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence, and reckless disregard of
the duties involved in the conduct of the particular office involved.
Pursuant to Section 11 of the Distribution Agreement, the Registrant
agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Distributor and each of its
directors and officers and each person, if any, who controls the
Distributor within the meaning of Section 15 of the 1933 Act against
any loss, liability, claim, damages or expense arising by reason of
any person acquiring any shares, based upon the ground that the
registration statement, Prospectus, Statement of Additional
Information, shareholder reports or other information filed or made
public by the Registrant included a materially misleading statement or
omission. However, the Registrant does not agree to indemnify the
Distributor or hold it harmless to the extent that the statement or
omission was made in reliance upon, and in conformity with,
information furnished to the Registrant by or on behalf of the
Distributor. The Registrant does not agree to indemnify the parties
against any liability to which they would be subject by reason of
willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence, and reckless
disregard of the obligations and duties under the Distribution
Agreement.
Pursuant to the agreement by which Fidelity Investments Institutional
Operations Company, Inc. ("FIIOC") is appointed transfer agent, the
Registrant agrees to indemnify and hold FIIOC harmless against any
losses, claims, damages, liabilities or expenses (including reasonable
counsel fees and expenses) resulting from:
(1) any claim, demand, action or suit brought by any person other
than the Registrant, including by a shareholder, which names FIIOC
and/or the Registrant as a party and is not based on and does not
result from FIIOC's willful misfeasance, bad faith or negligence or
reckless disregard of duties, and arises out of or in connection with
FIIOC's performance under the Transfer Agency Agreement; or
(2) any claim, demand, action or suit (except to the extent
contributed to by FIIOC's willful misfeasance, bad faith or negligence
or reckless disregard of duties) which results from the negligence of
the Registrant, or from FIIOC's acting upon any instruction(s)
reasonably believed by it to have been executed or communicated by any
person duly authorized by the Registrant, or as a result of FIIOC's
acting in reliance upon advice reasonably believed by FIIOC to have
been given by counsel for the Registrant, or as a result of FIIOC's
acting in reliance upon any instrument or stock certificate reasonably
believed by it to have been genuine and signed, countersigned or
executed by the proper person.
Item 28. Business and Other Connections of Investment Adviser
(1) FIDELITY MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH COMPANY (FMR)
82 Devonshire Street, Boston, MA 02109
FMR serves as investment adviser to a number of other investment
companies. The directors and officers of the Adviser have held,
during the past two fiscal years, the following positions of a
substantial nature.
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Edward C. Johnson 3d Chairman of the Board and Director of FMR; President
and Chief Executive Officer of FMR Corp.; Chairman
of the Board and Director of FMR Corp., Fidelity
Investments Money Management, Inc. (FIMM), Fidelity
Management & Research (U.K.) Inc. (FMR U.K.), and
Fidelity Management & Research (Far East) Inc. (FMR
Far East); Chairman of the Executive Committee of
FMR; Director of Fidelity Investments Japan Limited
(FIJ); President and Trustee of funds advised by FMR.
Robert C. Pozen President and Director of FMR; Senior Vice President
and Trustee of funds advised by FMR; President and
Director of FIMM, FMR U.K., and FMR Far East;
Previously, General Counsel, Managing Director, and
Senior Vice President of FMR Corp.
Peter S. Lynch Vice Chairman of the Board and Director of FMR.
John H. Carlson Vice President of FMR and of funds advised by FMR.
Dwight D. Churchill Senior Vice President of FMR and Vice President of
Bond Funds advised by FMR; Vice President of FIMM.
Brian Clancy Vice President of FMR and Treasurer of FMR, FIMM,
FMR U.K., and FMR Far East.
Barry Coffman Vice President of FMR.
Arieh Coll Vice President of FMR.
Frederic G. Corneel Tax Counsel of FMR.
Stephen G. Manning Assistant Treasurer of FMR, FIMM, FMR U.K., FMR
Far East; Vice President and Treasurer of FMR Corp.;
Treasurer of Strategic Advisers, Inc.
William Danoff Senior Vice President of FMR and Vice President of a
fund advised by FMR.
Scott E. DeSano Vice President of FMR.
Penelope Dobkin Vice President of FMR and of a fund advised by FMR.
Walter C. Donovan Vice President of FMR.
Bettina Doulton Vice President of FMR and of funds advised by FMR.
Margaret L. Eagle Vice President of FMR and of funds advised by FMR.
William R. Ebsworth Vice President of FMR.
Richard B. Fentin Senior Vice President of FMR and Vice President of a
fund advised by FMR.
Gregory Fraser Vice President of FMR and of a fund advised by FMR.
Jay Freedman Assistant Clerk of FMR; Clerk of FMR Corp., FMR
U.K., FMR Far East, and Strategic Advisers, Inc.;
Secretary of FIMM; Associate General Counsel FMR
Corp.
David L. Glancy Vice President of FMR and of a fund advised by FMR.
Barry A. Greenfield Vice President of FMR and of a fund advised by FMR.
Boyce I. Greer Senior Vice President of FMR and Vice President of
Money Market Funds advised by FMR; Vice President
of FIMM.
Bart A. Grenier Senior Vice President of FMR; Vice President of
High-Income Funds advised by FMR.
Robert Haber Vice President of FMR.
Richard C. Habermann Senior Vice President of FMR; Vice President of funds
advised by FMR.
Fred L. Henning Jr. Senior Vice President of FMR and Vice President of
Fixed-Income Funds advised by FMR.
Bruce T. Herring Vice President of FMR.
Robert F. Hill Vice President of FMR; Director of Technical Research.
Abigail P. Johnson Senior Vice President of FMR and Vice President of
funds advised by FMR; Director of FMR Corp.;
Associate Director and Senior Vice President of Equity
Funds advised by FMR.
David B. Jones Vice President of FMR.
Steven Kaye Vice President of FMR and of a fund advised by FMR.
Francis V. Knox Vice President of FMR; Compliance Officer of FMR
U.K.
Harris Leviton Vice President of FMR and of a fund advised by FMR.
Bradford E. Lewis Vice President of FMR and of funds advised by FMR.
Richard R. Mace Jr. Vice President of FMR and of funds advised by FMR.
Charles A. Mangum Vice President of FMR and of a fund advised by FMR.
Kevin McCarey Vice President of FMR and of a fund advised by FMR.
Neal P. Miller Vice President of FMR.
Jacques Perold Vice President of FMR.
Alan Radlo Vice President of FMR.
Eric D. Roiter Senior Vice President and General Counsel of FMR and
Secretary of funds advised by FMR.
Lee H. Sandwen Vice President of FMR.
Patricia A. Satterthwaite Vice President of FMR and of a fund advised by FMR.
Fergus Shiel Vice President of FMR.
Richard A. Silver Vice President of FMR.
Carol A. Smith-Fachetti Vice President of FMR.
Steven J. Snider Vice President of FMR and of funds advised by FMR.
Thomas T. Soviero Vice President of FMR and of a fund advised by FMR.
Richard Spillane Senior Vice President of FMR; Associate Director and
Senior Vice President of Equity Funds advised by FMR;
Previously, Senior Vice President and Director of
Operations and Compliance of FMR U.K.
Thomas M. Sprague Vice President of FMR and of funds advised by FMR.
Robert E. Stansky Senior Vice President of FMR and Vice President of a
fund advised by FMR.
Scott D. Stewart Vice President of FMR.
Thomas Sweeney Vice President of FMR.
Beth F. Terrana Senior Vice President of FMR and Vice President of a
fund advised by FMR.
Yoko Tilley Vice President of FMR.
Joel C. Tillinghast Vice President of FMR and of a fund advised by FMR.
Robert Tuckett Vice President of FMR.
Jennifer Uhrig Vice President of FMR and of funds advised by FMR.
George A. Vanderheiden Senior Vice President of FMR and Vice President of
funds advised by FMR; Director of FMR Corp.
Steven S. Wymer Vice President of FMR and of a fund advised by FMR.
</TABLE>
(2) FIDELITY MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH (U.K.) INC. (FMR U.K.)
25 Lovat Lane, London, EC3R 8LL, England
FMR U.K. provides investment advisory services to Fidelity Management
& Research Company and Fidelity Management Trust Company. The
directors and officers of the Sub-Adviser have held the following
positions of a substantial nature during the past two fiscal years.
Edward C. Johnson 3d Chairman of the Board and Director of FMR U.K.,
FMR, FMR Corp., FIMM, and FMR Far East; President
and Chief Executive Officer of FMR Corp.; Chairman
of the Executive Committee of FMR; Director of
Fidelity Investments Japan Limited (FIJ); President and
Trustee of funds advised by FMR.
Robert C. Pozen President and Director of FMR; Senior Vice President
and Trustee of funds advised by FMR; President and
Director of FIMM, FMR U.K., and FMR Far East;
Previously, General Counsel, Managing Director, and
Senior Vice President of FMR Corp.
Brian Clancy Treasurer of FMR U.K., FMR Far East, FMR, and
FIMM and Vice President of FMR.
Stephen G. Manning Assistant Treasurer of FMR U.K., FMR, FMR Far East,
and FIMM; Vice President and Treasurer of FMR
Corp.; Treasurer of Strategic Advisers, Inc.
Francis V. Knox Compliance Officer of FMR U.K.; Vice President of
FMR.
Jay Freedman Clerk of FMR U.K., FMR Far East, FMR Corp. and
Strategic Advisers, Inc.; Assistant Clerk of FMR;
Secretary of FIMM; Associate General Counsel FMR
Corp.
Sarah H. Zenoble Senior Vice President and Director of Operations and
Compliance.
(3) FIDELITY MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH (Far East) INC. (FMR Far East)
Shiroyama JT Mori Bldg., 4-3-1 Toranomon Minato-ku, Tokyo 105,
Japan
FMR Far East provides investment advisory services to Fidelity
Management & Research Company and Fidelity Management Trust Company.
The directors and officers of the Sub-Adviser have held the following
positions of a substantial nature during the past two fiscal years.
Edward C. Johnson 3d Chairman of the Board and Director of FMR Far
East, FMR, FMR Corp., FIMM, and FMR U.K.;
Chairman of the Executive Committee of FMR;
President and Chief Executive Officer of FMR
Corp.; Director of Fidelity Investments Japan
Limited (FIJ); President and Trustee of funds
advised by FMR.
Robert C. Pozen President and Director of FMR; Senior Vice
President and Trustee of funds advised by FMR;
President and Director of FIMM, FMR U.K., and
FMR Far East; Previously, General Counsel,
Managing Director, and Senior Vice President of
FMR Corp.
Robert H. Auld Senior Vice President of FMR Far East.
Brian Clancy Treasurer of FMR Far East, FMR U.K., FMR,
and FIMM and Vice President of FMR.
Jay Freedman Clerk of FMR Far East, FMR U.K., FMR Corp.
and Strategic Advisers, Inc.; Assistant Clerk of
FMR; Secretary of FIMM; Associate General
Counsel FMR Corp.
Stephen G. Manning Assistant Treasurer of FMR Far East, FMR,
FMR U.K., and FIMM; Vice President and
Treasurer of FMR Corp.; Treasurer of Strategic
Advisers, Inc.
Billy Wilder Vice President of FMR Far East; President and
Representative Director of Fidelity Investments
Japan Limited.
Item 29. Principal Underwriters
(a) Fidelity Distributors Corporation (FDC) acts as distributor for
most funds advised by FMR.
(b)
Name and Principal Positions and Offices Positions and Offices
Business Address* With Underwriter With Registrant
Edward C. Johnson 3d Director Trustee and President
Michael Mlinac Director None
James Curvey Director None
Martha B. Willis President None
Eric D. Roiter Senior Vice President Secretary
Caron Ketchum Treasurer and Controller None
Gary Greenstein Assistant Treasurer None
Jay Freedman Assistant Clerk None
Linda Holland Compliance Officer None
* 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, MA
(c) Not applicable.
Item 30. Location of Accounts and Records
All accounts, books, and other documents required to be maintained by
Section 31(a) of the 1940 Act and the Rules promulgated thereunder are
maintained by Fidelity Management & Research Company or Fidelity
Service Company, Inc., 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, MA 02109, or the
funds' respective custodian: The Chase Manhattan Bank, 1 Chase
Manhattan Plaza, New York, N.Y, or Brown Brothers Harriman & Co., 40
Water Street, Boston, MA.
Item 31. Management Services - Not applicable.
Item 32. Undertakings
The Registrant undertakes for Variable Insurance Products Fund III:
Mid Cap Portfolio: (1) to call a meeting of shareholders for the
purpose of voting upon the questions of removal of a trustee or
trustees, when requested to do so by record holders of not less than
10% of its outstanding shares; and (2) to assist in communications
with other shareholders pursuant to Section 16(c)(1) and (2), whenever
shareholders meeting the qualifications set forth in Section 16(c)
seek the opportunity to communicate with other shareholders with a
view toward requesting a meeting.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the
Investment Company Act of 1940, the Registrant has duly caused this
Post-Effective Amendment No. 12 to the Registration Statement to be
signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in
the City of Boston, and Commonwealth of Massachusetts, on the 29th day
of September 1998.
VARIABLE INSURANCE PRODUCTS FUND III
By _/s/Edward C. Johnson 3d_____(dagger)
Edward C. Johnson 3d, President
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this
Registration Statement has been signed below by the following persons
in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
(Signature) (Title) (Date)
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C> <C>
/s/Edward C. Johnson 3d(dagger) President and Trustee September 29, 1998
Edward C. Johnson 3d (Principal Executive Officer)
/s/Richard A. Silver Treasurer September 29, 1998
Richard A. Silver
/s/Robert C. Pozen Trustee September 29, 1998
Robert C. Pozen
/s/Ralph F. Cox * Trustee September 29, 1998
Ralph F. Cox
/s/Phyllis Burke Davis * Trustee September 29, 1998
Phyllis Burke Davis
/s/Robert M. Gates ** Trustee September 29, 1998
Robert M. Gates
/s/E. Bradley Jones * Trustee September 29, 1998
E. Bradley Jones
/s/Donald J. Kirk * Trustee September 29, 1998
Donald J. Kirk
/s/Peter S. Lynch * Trustee September 29, 1998
Peter S. Lynch
/s/Marvin L. Mann * Trustee September 29, 1998
Marvin L. Mann
/s/William O. McCoy * Trustee Sepetmber 29, 1998
William O. McCoy
/s/Gerald C. McDonough * Trustee September 29, 1998
Gerald C. McDonough
/s/Thomas R. Williams * Trustee September 29, 1998
Thomas R. Williams
</TABLE>
(dagger) Signatures affixed by Robert C. Pozen pursuant to a power of
attorney dated July 17, 1997 and filed herewith.
* Signature affixed by Robert C. Hacker pursuant to a power of
attorney dated December 19, 1996 and filed herewith.
** Signature affixed by Robert C. Hacker pursuant to a power of
attorney dated March 6, 1997 and filed herewith.
POWER OF ATTORNEY
I, the undersigned President and Director, Trustee, or General
Partner, as the case may be, of the following investment companies:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Fidelity Aberdeen Street Trust Fidelity Hereford Street Trust
Fidelity Advisor Series I Fidelity Income Fund
Fidelity Advisor Series II Fidelity Institutional Cash Portfolios
Fidelity Advisor Series III Fidelity Institutional Tax-Exempt Cash Portfolios
Fidelity Advisor Series IV Fidelity Investment Trust
Fidelity Advisor Series V Fidelity Magellan Fund
Fidelity Advisor Series VI Fidelity Massachusetts Municipal Trust
Fidelity Advisor Series VII Fidelity Money Market Trust
Fidelity Advisor Series VIII Fidelity Mt. Vernon Street Trust
Fidelity Beacon Street Trust Fidelity Municipal Trust
Fidelity Boston Street Trust Fidelity Municipal Trust II
Fidelity California Municipal Trust Fidelity New York Municipal Trust
Fidelity California Municipal Trust II Fidelity New York Municipal Trust II
Fidelity Capital Trust Fidelity Phillips Street Trust
Fidelity Charles Street Trust Fidelity Puritan Trust
Fidelity Commonwealth Trust Fidelity Revere Street Trust
Fidelity Concord Street Trust Fidelity School Street Trust
Fidelity Congress Street Fund Fidelity Securities Fund
Fidelity Contrafund Fidelity Select Portfolios
Fidelity Corporate Trust Fidelity Sterling Performance Portfolio, L.P.
Fidelity Court Street Trust Fidelity Summer Street Trust
Fidelity Court Street Trust II Fidelity Trend Fund
Fidelity Covington Trust Fidelity U.S. Investments-Bond Fund, L.P.
Fidelity Daily Money Fund Fidelity U.S. Investments-Government Securities
Fidelity Destiny Portfolios Fund, L.P.
Fidelity Deutsche Mark Performance Fidelity Union Street Trust
Portfolio, L.P. Fidelity Union Street Trust II
Fidelity Devonshire Trust Fidelity Yen Performance Portfolio, L.P.
Fidelity Exchange Fund Newbury Street Trust
Fidelity Financial Trust Variable Insurance Products Fund
Fidelity Fixed-Income Trust Variable Insurance Products Fund II
Fidelity Government Securities Fund Variable Insurance Products Fund III
Fidelity Hastings Street Trust
</TABLE>
in addition to any other investment company for which Fidelity
Management & Research Company or an affiliate acts as investment
adviser and for which the undersigned individual serves as President
and Director, Trustee, or General Partner (collectively, the "Funds"),
hereby constitute and appoint Robert C. Pozen my true and lawful
attorney-in-fact, with full power of substitution, and with full power
to him to sign for me and in my name in the appropriate capacity, all
Registration Statements of the Funds on Form N-1A, Form N-8A, or any
successor thereto, any and all subsequent Amendments, Pre-Effective
Amendments, or Post-Effective Amendments to said Registration
Statements on Form N-1A, Form N-8A, or any successor thereto, any
Registration Statements on Form N-14, and any supplements or other
instruments in connection therewith, and generally to do all such
things in my name and on my behalf in connection therewith as said
attorney-in-fact deems necessary or appropriate, to comply with the
provisions of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company
Act of 1940, and all related requirements of the Securities and
Exchange Commission. I hereby ratify and confirm all that said
attorney-in-fact or his substitutes may do or cause to be done by
virtue hereof. This power of attorney is effective for all documents
filed on or after August 1, 1997.
WITNESS my hand on the date set forth below.
/s/Edward C. Johnson 3d_ July 17, 1997
Edward C. Johnson 3d
POWER OF ATTORNEY
I, the undersigned Director, Trustee, or General Partner, as the case
may be, of the following investment companies:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Fidelity Aberdeen Street Trust Fidelity Government Securities Fund
Fidelity Advisor Annuity Fund Fidelity Hastings Street Trust
Fidelity Advisor Series I Fidelity Hereford Street Trust
Fidelity Advisor Series II Fidelity Income Fund
Fidelity Advisor Series III Fidelity Institutional Cash Portfolios
Fidelity Advisor Series IV Fidelity Institutional Tax-Exempt Cash Portfolios
Fidelity Advisor Series V Fidelity Institutional Trust
Fidelity Advisor Series VI Fidelity Investment Trust
Fidelity Advisor Series VII Fidelity Magellan Fund
Fidelity Advisor Series VIII Fidelity Massachusetts Municipal Trust
Fidelity Beacon Street Trust Fidelity Money Market Trust
Fidelity Boston Street Trust Fidelity Mt. Vernon Street Trust
Fidelity California Municipal Trust Fidelity Municipal Trust
Fidelity California Municipal Trust II Fidelity Municipal Trust II
Fidelity Capital Trust Fidelity New York Municipal Trust
Fidelity Charles Street Trust Fidelity New York Municipal Trust II
Fidelity Commonwealth Trust Fidelity Phillips Street Trust
Fidelity Congress Street Fund Fidelity Puritan Trust
Fidelity Contrafund Fidelity Revere Street Trust
Fidelity Corporate Trust Fidelity School Street Trust
Fidelity Court Street Trust Fidelity Securities Fund
Fidelity Court Street Trust II Fidelity Select Portfolios
Fidelity Covington Trust Fidelity Sterling Performance Portfolio, L.P.
Fidelity Daily Money Fund Fidelity Summer Street Trust
Fidelity Daily Tax-Exempt Fund Fidelity Trend Fund
Fidelity Destiny Portfolios Fidelity U.S. Investments-Bond Fund, L.P.
Fidelity Deutsche Mark Performance Fidelity U.S. Investments-Government Securities
Portfolio, L.P. Fund, L.P.
Fidelity Devonshire Trust Fidelity Union Street Trust
Fidelity Exchange Fund Fidelity Union Street Trust II
Fidelity Financial Trust Fidelity Yen Performance Portfolio, L.P.
Fidelity Fixed-Income Trust Variable Insurance Products Fund
Variable Insurance Products Fund II
</TABLE>
plus any other investment company for which Fidelity Management &
Research Company or an affiliate acts as investment adviser and for
which the undersigned individual serves as Director, Trustee, or
General Partner (collectively, the "Funds"), hereby constitute and
appoint Arthur J. Brown, Arthur C. Delibert, Stephanie A. Djinis,
Robert C. Hacker, Thomas M. Leahey, Richard M. Phillips, and Dana L.
Platt, each of them singly, my true and lawful attorneys-in-fact, with
full power of substitution, and with full power to each of them, to
sign for me and in my name in the appropriate capacities, all
Registration Statements of the Funds on Form N-1A, Form N-8A or any
successor thereto, any and all subsequent Amendments, Pre-Effective
Amendments, or Post-Effective Amendments to said Registration
Statements on Form N-1A or any successor thereto, any Registration
Statements on Form N-14, and any supplements or other instruments in
connection therewith, and generally to do all such things in my name
and behalf in connection therewith as said attorneys-in-fact deem
necessary or appropriate, to comply with the provisions of the
Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, and all
related requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission. I
hereby ratify and confirm all that said attorneys-in-fact or their
substitutes may do or cause to be done by virtue hereof. This power
of attorney is effective for all documents filed on or after March 1,
1997.
WITNESS my hand on the date set forth below.
/s/Robert M. Gates March 6, 1997
Robert M. Gates
POWER OF ATTORNEY
We, the undersigned Directors, Trustees, or General Partners, as the
case may be, of the following investment companies:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Fidelity Aberdeen Street Trust Fidelity Government Securities Fund
Fidelity Advisor Annuity Fund Fidelity Hastings Street Trust
Fidelity Advisor Series I Fidelity Hereford Street Trust
Fidelity Advisor Series II Fidelity Income Fund
Fidelity Advisor Series III Fidelity Institutional Cash Portfolios
Fidelity Advisor Series IV Fidelity Institutional Tax-Exempt Cash Portfolios
Fidelity Advisor Series V Fidelity Institutional Trust
Fidelity Advisor Series VI Fidelity Investment Trust
Fidelity Advisor Series VII Fidelity Magellan Fund
Fidelity Advisor Series VIII Fidelity Massachusetts Municipal Trust
Fidelity Beacon Street Trust Fidelity Money Market Trust
Fidelity Boston Street Trust Fidelity Mt. Vernon Street Trust
Fidelity California Municipal Trust Fidelity Municipal Trust
Fidelity California Municipal Trust II Fidelity Municipal Trust II
Fidelity Capital Trust Fidelity New York Municipal Trust
Fidelity Charles Street Trust Fidelity New York Municipal Trust II
Fidelity Commonwealth Trust Fidelity Phillips Street Trust
Fidelity Congress Street Fund Fidelity Puritan Trust
Fidelity Contrafund Fidelity Revere Street Trust
Fidelity Corporate Trust Fidelity School Street Trust
Fidelity Court Street Trust Fidelity Securities Fund
Fidelity Court Street Trust II Fidelity Select Portfolios
Fidelity Covington Trust Fidelity Sterling Performance Portfolio, L.P.
Fidelity Daily Money Fund Fidelity Summer Street Trust
Fidelity Daily Tax-Exempt Fund Fidelity Trend Fund
Fidelity Destiny Portfolios Fidelity U.S. Investments-Bond Fund, L.P.
Fidelity Deutsche Mark Performance Fidelity U.S. Investments-Government Securities
Portfolio, L.P. Fund, L.P.
Fidelity Devonshire Trust Fidelity Union Street Trust
Fidelity Exchange Fund Fidelity Union Street Trust II
Fidelity Financial Trust Fidelity Yen Performance Portfolio, L.P.
Fidelity Fixed-Income Trust Variable Insurance Products Fund
Variable Insurance Products Fund II
</TABLE>
plus any other investment company for which Fidelity Management &
Research Company or an affiliate acts as investment adviser and for
which the undersigned individual serves as Directors, Trustees, or
General Partners (collectively, the "Funds"), hereby constitute and
appoint Arthur J. Brown, Arthur C. Delibert, Stephanie A. Djinis,
Robert C. Hacker, Thomas M. Leahey, Richard M. Phillips, and Dana L.
Platt, each of them singly, our true and lawful attorneys-in-fact,
with full power of substitution, and with full power to each of them,
to sign for us and in our names in the appropriate capacities, all
Registration Statements of the Funds on Form N-1A, Form N-8A or any
successor thereto, any and all subsequent Amendments, Pre-Effective
Amendments, or Post-Effective Amendments to said Registration
Statements on Form N-1A or any successor thereto, any Registration
Statements on Form N-14, and any supplements or other instruments in
connection therewith, and generally to do all such things in our names
and behalf in connection therewith as said attorneys-in-fact deems
necessary or appropriate, to comply with the provisions of the
Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, and all
related requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission. I
hereby ratify and confirm all that said attorneys-in-fact or their
substitutes may do or cause to be done by virtue hereof. This power
of attorney is effective for all documents filed on or after January
1, 1997.
WITNESS our hands on this nineteenth day of December, 1996.
/s/Edward C. Johnson 3d___________ /s/Peter S. Lynch________________
Edward C. Johnson 3d Peter S. Lynch
/s/J. Gary Burkhead_______________ /s/William O. McCoy______________
J. Gary Burkhead William O. McCoy
/s/Ralph F. Cox __________________ /s/Gerald C. McDonough___________
Ralph F. Cox Gerald C. McDonough
/s/Phyllis Burke Davis_____________ /s/Marvin L. Mann________________
Phyllis Burke Davis Marvin L. Mann
/s/E. Bradley Jones________________ /s/Thomas R. Williams ____________
E. Bradley Jones Thomas R. Williams
/s/Donald J. Kirk __________________
Donald J. Kirk
Exhibit 5(j)
FORM OF
MANAGEMENT CONTRACT
between
VARIABLE INSURANCE PRODUCTS FUND III
MID CAP PORTFOLIO
and
FIDELITY MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH COMPANY
AGREEMENT MADE as of this __ day of December 1998, by and between
Variable Insurance Products Fund III, a Massachusetts business trust
which may issue one or more series of shares of beneficial interest
(hereinafter called the "Fund"), on behalf of Mid Cap Portfolio
(hereinafter called the "Portfolio"), and Fidelity Management &
Research Company, a Massachusetts corporation (hereinafter called the
"Adviser") as set forth in its entirety below.
1. (a) Investment Advisory Services. The Adviser undertakes to act as
investment adviser of the Portfolio and shall, subject to the
supervision of the Fund's Board of Trustees, direct the investments of
the Portfolio in accordance with the investment objective, policies
and limitations as provided in the Portfolio's Prospectus or other
governing instruments, as amended from time to time, the Investment
Company Act of 1940 and rules thereunder, as amended from time to time
(the "1940 Act"), and such other limitations as the Portfolio may
impose by notice in writing to the Adviser. The Adviser shall also
furnish for the use of the Portfolio office space and all necessary
office facilities, equipment and personnel for servicing the
investments of the Portfolio; and shall pay the salaries and fees of
all officers of the Fund, of all Trustees of the Fund who are
"interested persons" of the Fund or of the Adviser and of all
personnel of the Fund or the Adviser performing services relating to
research, statistical and investment activities. The Adviser is
authorized, in its discretion and without prior consultation with the
Portfolio, to buy, sell, lend and otherwise trade in any stocks, bonds
and other securities and investment instruments on behalf of the
Portfolio. The investment policies and all other actions of the
Portfolio are and shall at all times be subject to the control and
direction of the Fund's Board of Trustees.
(b) Management Services. The Adviser shall perform (or arrange for
the performance by its affiliates of) the management and
administrative services necessary for the operation of the Fund. The
Adviser shall, subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees,
perform various services for the Portfolio, including but not limited
to: (i) providing the Portfolio with office space, equipment and
facilities (which may be its own) for maintaining its organization;
(ii) on behalf of the Portfolio, supervising relations with, and
monitoring the performance of, custodians, depositories, transfer and
pricing agents, accountants, attorneys, underwriters, brokers and
dealers, insurers and other persons in any capacity deemed to be
necessary or desirable; (iii) preparing all general shareholder
communications, including shareholder reports; (iv) conducting
shareholder relations; (v) maintaining the Fund's existence and its
records; (vi) during such times as shares are publicly offered,
maintaining the registration and qualification of the Portfolio's
shares under federal and state law; and (vii) investigating the
development of and developing and implementing, if appropriate,
management and shareholder services designed to enhance the value or
convenience of the Portfolio as an investment vehicle.
The Adviser shall also furnish such reports, evaluations, information
or analyses to the Fund as the Fund's Board of Trustees may request
from time to time or as the Adviser may deem to be desirable. The
Adviser shall make recommendations to the Fund's Board of Trustees
with respect to Fund policies, and shall carry out such policies as
are adopted by the Trustees. The Adviser shall, subject to review by
the Board of Trustees, furnish such other services as the Adviser
shall from time to time determine to be necessary or useful to perform
its obligations under this Contract.
(c) The Adviser shall place all orders for the purchase and sale of
portfolio securities for the Portfolio's account with brokers or
dealers selected by the Adviser, which may include brokers or dealers
affiliated with the Adviser. The Adviser shall use its best efforts to
seek to execute portfolio transactions at prices which are
advantageous to the Portfolio and at commission rates which are
reasonable in relation to the benefits received. In selecting brokers
or dealers qualified to execute a particular transaction, brokers or
dealers may be selected who also provide brokerage and research
services (as those terms are defined in Section 28(e) of the
Securities Exchange Act of 1934) to the Portfolio and/or the other
accounts over which the Adviser or its affiliates exercise investment
discretion. The Adviser is authorized to pay a broker or dealer who
provides such brokerage and research services a commission for
executing a portfolio transaction for the Portfolio which is in excess
of the amount of commission another broker or dealer would have
charged for effecting that transaction if the Adviser determines in
good faith that such amount of commission is reasonable in relation to
the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such
broker or dealer. This determination may be viewed in terms of either
that particular transaction or the overall responsibilities which the
Adviser and its affiliates have with respect to accounts over which
they exercise investment discretion. The Trustees of the Fund shall
periodically review the commissions paid by the Portfolio to determine
if the commissions paid over representative periods of time were
reasonable in relation to the benefits to the Portfolio.
The Adviser shall, in acting hereunder, be an independent contractor.
The Adviser shall not be an agent of the Portfolio.
2. It is understood that the Trustees, officers and shareholders of
the Fund are or may be or become interested in the Adviser as
directors, officers or otherwise and that directors, officers and
stockholders of the Adviser are or may be or become similarly
interested in the Fund, and that the Adviser may be or become
interested in the Fund as a shareholder or otherwise.
3. The Adviser will be compensated on the following basis for the
services and facilities to be furnished hereunder. The Adviser shall
receive a monthly management fee, payable monthly as soon as
practicable after the last day of each month, composed of a Group Fee
and an Individual Fund Fee.
(a) Group Fee Rate. The Group Fee Rate shall be based upon the
monthly average of the net assets of the registered investment
companies having Advisory and Service or Management Contracts with the
Adviser (computed in the manner set forth in the Fund's Declaration of
Trust or other organizational document) determined as of the close of
business on each business day throughout the month. The Group Fee Rate
shall be determined on a cumulative basis pursuant to the following
schedule:
Average Net Assets Annualized Fee Rate (for each level)
0 - $ 3 billion .5200%
3 - 6 .4900
6 - 9 .4600
9 - 12 .4300
12 - 15 .4000
15 - 18 .3850
18 - 21 .3700
21 - 24 .3600
24 - 30 .3500
30 - 36 .3450
36 - 42 .3400
42 - 48 .3350
48 - 66 .3250
66 - 84 .3200
84 - 102 .3150
102 - 138 .3100
138 - 174 .3050
174 - 210 .3000
210 - 246 .2950
246 - 282 .2900
282 - 318 .2850
318 - 354 .2800
354 - 390 .2750
390 - 426 .2700
426 - 462 .2650
462 - 498 .2600
498 - 534 .2550
Over - 534 .2500
(b) Individual Fund Fee Rate. The Individual Fund Fee Rate shall be
.30%.
The sum of the Group Fee Rate, calculated as described above to the
nearest millionth, and the Individual Fund Fee Rate shall constitute
the Annual Management Fee Rate. One-twelfth of the Annual Management
Fee Rate shall be applied to the average of the net assets of the
Portfolio (computed in the manner set forth in the Fund's Declaration
of Trust or other organizational document) determined as of the close
of business on each business day throughout the month.
(c) In case of termination of this Contract during any month, the
fee for that month shall be reduced proportionately on the basis of
the number of business days during which it is in effect, and the fee
computed upon the average net assets for the business days it is so in
effect for that month.
4. It is understood that the Portfolio will pay all its expenses,
which expenses payable by the Portfolio shall include, without
limitation, (i) interest and taxes; (ii) brokerage commissions and
other costs in connection with the purchase or sale of securities and
other investment instruments; (iii) fees and expenses of the Fund's
Trustees other than those who are "interested persons" of the Fund or
the Adviser; (iv) legal and audit expenses; (v) custodian, registrar
and transfer agent fees and expenses; (vi) fees and expenses related
to the registration and qualification of the Fund and the Portfolio's
shares for distribution under state and federal securities laws; (vii)
expenses of printing and mailing reports and notices and proxy
material to shareholders of the Portfolio; (viii) all other expenses
incidental to holding meetings of the Portfolio's shareholders,
including proxy solicitations therefor; (ix) a pro rata share, based
on relative net assets of the Portfolio and other registered
investment companies having Advisory and Service or Management
Contracts with the Adviser, of 50% of insurance premiums for fidelity
and other coverage; (x) its proportionate share of association
membership dues; (xi) expenses of typesetting for printing
Prospectuses and Statements of Additional Information and supplements
thereto; (xii) expenses of printing and mailing Prospectuses and
Statements of Additional Information and supplements thereto sent to
existing shareholders; and (xiii) such non-recurring or extraordinary
expenses as may arise, including those relating to actions, suits or
proceedings to which the Portfolio is a party and the legal obligation
which the Portfolio may have to indemnify the Fund's Trustees and
officers with respect thereto.
5. The services of the Adviser to the Portfolio are not to be deemed
exclusive, the Adviser being free to render services to others and
engage in other activities, provided, however, that such other
services and activities do not, during the term of this Contract,
interfere, in a material manner, with the Adviser's ability to meet
all of its obligations with respect to rendering services to the
Portfolio hereunder. In the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith,
gross negligence or reckless disregard of obligations or duties
hereunder on the part of the Adviser, the Adviser shall not be subject
to liability to the Portfolio or to any shareholder of the Portfolio
for any act or omission in the course of, or connected with, rendering
services hereunder or for any losses that may be sustained in the
purchase, holding or sale of any security or other investment
instrument.
6. (a) Subject to prior termination as provided in sub-paragraph (d)
of this paragraph 6, this Contract shall continue in force until July
31, 1999 and indefinitely thereafter, but only so long as the
continuance after such date shall be specifically approved at least
annually by vote of the Trustees of the Fund or by vote of a majority
of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio.
(b) This Contract may be modified by mutual consent subject to the
provisions of Section 15 of the 1940 Act, as modified by or
interpreted by any applicable order or orders of the Securities and
Exchange Commission (the "Commission") or any rules or regulations
adopted by, or interpretative releases of, the Commission.
(c) In addition to the requirements of sub-paragraphs (a) and (b) of
this paragraph 6, the terms of any continuance or modification of this
Contract must have been approved by the vote of a majority of those
Trustees of the Fund who are not parties to the Contract or interested
persons of any such party, cast in person at a meeting called for the
purpose of voting on such approval.
(d) Either party hereto may, at any time on sixty (60) days' prior
written notice to the other, terminate this Contract, without payment
of any penalty, by action of its Trustees or Board of Directors, as
the case may be, or with respect to the Portfolio by vote of a
majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio. This
Contract shall terminate automatically in the event of its assignment.
7. The Adviser is hereby expressly put on notice of the limitation of
shareholder liability as set forth in the Fund's Declaration of Trust
or other organizational document and agrees that the obligations
assumed by the Fund pursuant to this Contract shall be limited in all
cases to the Portfolio and its assets, and the Adviser shall not seek
satisfaction of any such obligation from the shareholders or any
shareholder of the Portfolio or any other Portfolios of the Fund. In
addition, the Adviser shall not seek satisfaction of any such
obligations from the Trustees or any individual Trustee. The Adviser
understands that the rights and obligations of any Portfolio under the
Declaration of Trust or other organizational document are separate and
distinct from those of any and all other Portfolios.
8. This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed in accordance
with, the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts without giving
effect to the choice of laws provisions thereof.
The terms "vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities,"
"assignment," and "interested persons," when used herein, shall have
the respective meanings specified in the 1940 Act, as now in effect or
as hereafter amended, and subject to such orders as may be granted by
the Commission.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties have caused this instrument to be
signed on their behalf by their respective officers thereunto duly
authorized, and their respective seals to be hereunto affixed, all as
of the date written above.
SIGNATURE LINES OMITTED
Exhibit 5(k)
SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT
between
FIDELITY MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH COMPANY
and
FIDELITY MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH (U.K.) INC.
and
VARIABLE INSURANCE PRODUCTS FUND III
ON BEHALF OF MID CAP PORTFOLIO
AGREEMENT made this __ day of December, 1998, by and between Fidelity
Management & Research Company, a Massachusetts corporation with
principal offices at 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts
(hereinafter called the "Advisor"); Fidelity Management & Research
(U.K.) Inc. (hereinafter called the "Sub-Advisor"); and Variable
Insurance Products Fund III, a Massachusetts business trust which may
issue one or more series of shares of beneficial interest (hereinafter
called the "Trust") on behalf of Mid Cap Portfolio (hereinafter called
the "Portfolio").
WHEREAS the Trust and the Advisor have entered into a Management
Contract on behalf of the Portfolio, pursuant to which the Advisor is
to act as investment manager of the Portfolio; and
WHEREAS the Sub-Advisor and its subsidiaries and other affiliated
persons have personnel in various locations throughout the world and
have been formed in part for the purpose of researching and compiling
information and recommendations with respect to the economies of
various countries, and securities of issuers located in such
countries, and providing investment advisory services in connection
therewith;
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual
promises hereinafter set forth, the Trust, the Advisor and the
Sub-Advisor agree as follows:
1. Duties: The Advisor may, in its discretion, appoint the
Sub-Advisor to perform one or more of the following services with
respect to all or a portion of the investments of the Portfolio. The
services and the portion of the investments of the Portfolio to be
advised or managed by the Sub-Advisor shall be as agreed upon from
time to time by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor. The Sub-Advisor shall
pay the salaries and fees of all personnel of the Sub-Advisor
performing services for the Portfolio relating to research,
statistical and investment activities.
(a) INVESTMENT ADVICE: If and to the extent requested by the
Advisor, the Sub-Advisor shall provide investment advice to the
Portfolio and the Advisor with respect to all or a portion of the
investments of the Portfolio, and in connection with such advice shall
furnish the Portfolio and the Advisor such factual information,
research reports and investment recommendations as the Advisor may
reasonably require. Such information may include written and oral
reports and analyses.
(b) INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT: If and to the extent requested by the
Advisor, the Sub-Advisor shall, subject to the supervision of the
Advisor, manage all or a portion of the investments of the Portfolio
in accordance with the investment objective, policies and limitations
provided in the Portfolio's Prospectus or other governing instruments,
as amended from time to time, the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the
"1940 Act") and rules thereunder, as amended from time to time, and
such other limitations as the Trust or Advisor may impose with respect
to the Portfolio by notice to the Sub-Advisor. With respect to the
portion of the investments of the Portfolio under its management, the
Sub-Advisor is authorized to make investment decisions on behalf of
the Portfolio with regard to any stock, bond, other security or
investment instrument, and to place orders for the purchase and sale
of such securities through such broker-dealers as the Sub-Advisor may
select. The Sub-Advisor may also be authorized, but only to the extent
such duties are delegated in writing by the Advisor, to provide
additional investment management services to the Portfolio, including
but not limited to services such as managing foreign currency
investments, purchasing and selling or writing futures and options
contracts, borrowing money or lending securities on behalf of the
Portfolio. All investment management and any other activities of the
Sub-Advisor shall at all times be subject to the control and direction
of the Advisor and the Trust's Board of Trustees.
(c) SUBSIDIARIES AND AFFILIATES: The Sub-Advisor may perform any or
all of the services contemplated by this Agreement directly or through
such of its subsidiaries or other affiliated persons as the
Sub-Advisor shall determine; provided, however, that performance of
such services through such subsidiaries or other affiliated persons
shall have been approved by the Trust to the extent required pursuant
to the 1940 Act and rules thereunder.
2. Information to be Provided to the Trust and the Advisor: The
Sub-Advisor shall furnish such reports, evaluations, information or
analyses to the Trust and the Advisor as the Trust's Board of Trustees
or the Advisor may reasonably request from time to time, or as the
Sub-Advisor may deem to be desirable.
3. Brokerage: In connection with the services provided under
subparagraph (b) of paragraph 1 of this Agreement, the Sub-Advisor
shall place all orders for the purchase and sale of portfolio
securities for the Portfolio's account with brokers or dealers
selected by the Sub-Advisor, which may include brokers or dealers
affiliated with the Advisor or Sub-Advisor. The Sub-Advisor shall use
its best efforts to seek to execute portfolio transactions at prices
which are advantageous to the Portfolio and at commission rates which
are reasonable in relation to the benefits received. In selecting
brokers or dealers qualified to execute a particular transaction,
brokers or dealers may be selected who also provide brokerage and
research services (as those terms are defined in Section 28(e) of the
Securities Exchange Act of l934) to the Portfolio and/or to the other
accounts over which the Sub-Advisor or Advisor exercise investment
discretion. The Sub-Advisor is authorized to pay a broker or dealer
who provides such brokerage and research services a commission for
executing a portfolio transaction for the Portfolio which is in excess
of the amount of commission another broker or dealer would have
charged for effecting that transaction if the Sub-Advisor determines
in good faith that such amount of commission is reasonable in relation
to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such
broker or dealer. This determination may be viewed in terms of either
that particular transaction or the overall responsibilities which the
Sub-Advisor has with respect to accounts over which it exercises
investment discretion. The Trustees of the Trust shall periodically
review the commissions paid by the Portfolio to determine if the
commissions paid over representative periods of time were reasonable
in relation to the benefits to the Portfolio.
4. Compensation: The Advisor shall compensate the Sub-Advisor on the
following basis for the services to be furnished hereunder.
(a) INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE: For services provided under
subparagraph (a) of paragraph 1 of this Agreement, the Advisor agrees
to pay the Sub-Advisor a monthly Sub-Advisory Fee. The Sub-Advisory
Fee shall be equal to 110% of the Sub-Advisor's costs incurred in
connection with rendering the services referred to in subparagraph (a)
of paragraph 1 of this Agreement. The Sub-Advisory Fee shall not be
reduced to reflect expense reimbursements or fee waivers by the
Advisor, if any, in effect from time to time.
(b) INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT FEE: For services provided under
subparagraph (b) of paragraph 1 of this Agreement, the Advisor agrees
to pay the Sub-Advisor a monthly Investment Management Fee. The
Investment Management Fee shall be equal to: (i) 50% of the monthly
management fee rate (including performance adjustments, if any) that
the Portfolio is obligated to pay the Advisor under its Management
Contract with the Advisor, multiplied by: (ii) the fraction equal to
the net assets of the Portfolio as to which the Sub-Advisor shall have
provided investment management services divided by the net assets of
the Portfolio for that month. If in any fiscal year the aggregate
expenses of the Portfolio exceed any applicable expense limitation
imposed by any state or federal securities laws or regulations, and
the Advisor waives all or a portion of its management fee or
reimburses the Portfolio for expenses to the extent required to
satisfy such limitation, the Investment Management Fee paid to the
Sub-Advisor will be reduced by 50% of the amount of such waivers or
reimbursements multiplied by the fraction determined in (ii). If the
Sub-Advisor reduces its fees to reflect such waivers or reimbursements
and the Advisor subsequently recovers all or any portion of such
waivers or reimbursements, then the Sub-Advisor shall be entitled to
receive from the Advisor a proportionate share of the amount
recovered. To the extent that waivers and reimbursements by the
Advisor required by such limitations are in excess of the Advisor's
management fee, the Investment Management Fee paid to the Sub-Advisor
will be reduced to zero for that month, but in no event shall the
Sub-Advisor be required to reimburse the Advisor for all or a portion
of such excess reimbursements.
(c) PROVISION OF MULTIPLE SERVICES: If the Sub-Advisor shall have
provided both investment advisory services under subparagraph (a) and
investment management services under subparagraph (b) of paragraph (1)
for the same portion of the investments of the Portfolio for the same
period, the fees paid to the Sub-Advisor with respect to such
investments shall be calculated exclusively under subparagraph (b) of
this paragraph 4.
5. Expenses: It is understood that the Portfolio will pay all of its
expenses other than those expressly stated to be payable by the
Sub-Advisor hereunder or by the Advisor under the Management Contract
with the Portfolio, which expenses payable by the Portfolio shall
include, without limitation, (i) interest and taxes; (ii) brokerage
commissions and other costs in connection with the purchase or sale of
securities and other investment instruments; (iii) fees and expenses
of the Trust's Trustees other than those who are "interested persons"
of the Trust, the Sub-Advisor or the Advisor; (iv) legal and audit
expenses; (v) custodian, registrar and transfer agent fees and
expenses; (vi) fees and expenses related to the registration and
qualification of the Trust and the Portfolio's shares for distribution
under state and federal securities laws; (vii) expenses of printing
and mailing reports and notices and proxy material to shareholders of
the Portfolio; (viii) all other expenses incidental to holding
meetings of the Portfolio's shareholders, including proxy
solicitations therefore; (ix) a pro rata share, based on relative net
assets of the Portfolio and other registered investment companies
having Advisory and Service or Management Contracts with the Advisor,
of 50% of insurance premiums for fidelity and other coverage; (x) its
proportionate share of association membership dues; (xi) expenses of
typesetting for printing Prospectuses and Statements of Additional
Information and supplements thereto; (xii) expenses of printing and
mailing Prospectuses and Statements of Additional Information and
supplements thereto sent to existing shareholders; and (xiii) such
non-recurring or extraordinary expenses as may arise, including those
relating to actions, suits or proceedings to which the Portfolio is a
party and the legal obligation which the Portfolio may have to
indemnify the Trust's Trustees and officers with respect thereto.
6. Interested Persons: It is understood that Trustees, officers and
shareholders of the Trust are or may be or become interested in the
Advisor or the Sub-Advisor as directors, officers or otherwise and
that directors, officers and stockholders of the Advisor or the
Sub-Advisor are or may be or become similarly interested in the Trust,
and that the Advisor or the Sub-Advisor may be or become interested in
the Trust as a shareholder or otherwise.
7. Services to Other Companies or Accounts: The services of the
Sub-Advisor to the Advisor are not to be deemed to be exclusive, the
Sub-Advisor being free to render services to others and engage in
other activities, provided, however, that such other services and
activities do not, during the term of this Agreement, interfere, in a
material manner, with the Sub-Advisor's ability to meet all of its
obligations hereunder. The Sub-Advisor shall for all purposes be an
independent contractor and not an agent or employee of the Advisor or
the Trust.
8. Standard of Care: In the absence of willful misfeasance, bad
faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of obligations or duties
hereunder on the part of the Sub-Advisor, the Sub-Advisor shall not be
subject to liability to the Advisor, the Trust or to any shareholder
of the Portfolio for any act or omission in the course of, or
connected with, rendering services hereunder or for any losses that
may be sustained in the purchase, holding or sale of any security.
9. Duration and Termination of Agreement; Amendments:
(a) Subject to prior termination as provided in sub-paragraph (d) of
this paragraph 9, this Agreement shall continue in force until July
31, 1999 and indefinitely thereafter, but only so long as the
continuance after such period shall be specifically approved at least
annually by vote of the Trust's Board of Trustees or by vote of a
majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio.
(b) This Agreement may be modified by mutual consent of the Advisor,
the Sub-Advisor and the Portfolio subject to the provisions of Section
15 of the 1940 Act, as modified by any applicable order or orders of
the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission") or any rules
or regulations adopted by, or interpretative releases of, the
Commission.
(c) In addition to the requirements of sub-paragraphs (a) and (b) of
this paragraph 9, the terms of any continuance or modification of this
Agreement must have been approved by the vote of a majority of those
Trustees of the Trust who are not parties to this Agreement or
interested persons of any such party, cast in person at a meeting
called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
(d) Either the Advisor, the Sub-Advisor or the Portfolio may, at any
time on sixty (60) days' prior written notice to the other parties,
terminate this Agreement, without payment of any penalty, by action of
its Board of Trustees or Directors, or with respect to the Portfolio
by vote of a majority of its outstanding voting securities. This
Agreement shall terminate automatically in the event of its
assignment.
10. Limitation of Liability: The Sub-Advisor is hereby expressly put
on notice of the limitation of shareholder liability as set forth in
the Declaration of Trust or other organizational document of the Trust
and agrees that any obligations of the Trust or the Portfolio arising
in connection with this Agreement shall be limited in all cases to the
Portfolio and its assets, and the Sub-Advisor shall not seek
satisfaction of any such obligation from the shareholders or any
shareholder of the Portfolio. Nor shall the Sub-Advisor seek
satisfaction of any such obligation from the Trustees or any
individual Trustee.
11. Governing Law: This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed
in accordance with, the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,
without giving effect to the choice of laws provisions thereof.
The terms "registered investment company," "vote of a majority of the
outstanding voting securities," "assignment," and "interested
persons," when used herein, shall have the respective meanings
specified in the Investment Company Act of 1940 as now in effect or as
hereafter amended.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties hereto have caused this instrument to
be signed in their behalf by their respective officers thereunto duly
authorized, and their respective seals to be hereunto affixed, all as
of the date written above.
SIGNATURE LINES OMITTED
Exhibit 5(l)
SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT
between
FIDELITY MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH COMPANY
and
FIDELITY MANAGEMENT & RESEARCH (FAR EAST) INC.
and
variable insurance products fund iiI
on behalf of MID CAP PORTFOLIO
AGREEMENT made this __ day of December 1998, by and between Fidelity
Management & Research Company, a Massachusetts corporation with
principal offices at 82 Devonshire Street, Boston, Massachusetts
(hereinafter called the "Advisor"); Fidelity Management & Research
(Far East) Inc. (hereinafter called the "Sub-Advisor"); and Variable
Insurance Products Fund III, a Massachusetts business trust which may
issue one or more series of shares of beneficial interest (hereinafter
called the "Trust") on behalf of Mid Cap Portfolio (hereinafter called
the "Portfolio").
WHEREAS the Trust and the Advisor have entered into a Management
Contract on behalf of the Portfolio, pursuant to which the Advisor is
to act as investment manager of the Portfolio; and
WHEREAS the Sub-Advisor and its subsidiaries and other affiliated
persons have personnel in various locations throughout the world and
have been formed in part for the purpose of researching and compiling
information and recommendations with respect to the economies of
various countries, and securities of issuers located in such
countries, and providing investment advisory services in connection
therewith;
NOW THEREFORE, in consideration of the premises and the mutual
promises hereinafter set forth, the Trust, the Advisor and the
Sub-Advisor agree as follows:
1. Duties: The Advisor may, in its discretion, appoint the
Sub-Advisor to perform one or more of the following services with
respect to all or a portion of the investments of the Portfolio. The
services and the portion of the investments of the Portfolio to be
advised or managed by the Sub-Advisor shall be as agreed upon from
time to time by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor. The Sub-Advisor shall
pay the salaries and fees of all personnel of the Sub-Advisor
performing services for the Portfolio relating to research,
statistical and investment activities.
(a) INVESTMENT ADVICE: If and to the extent requested by the
Advisor, the Sub-Advisor shall provide investment advice to the
Portfolio and the Advisor with respect to all or a portion of the
investments of the Portfolio, and in connection with such advice shall
furnish the Portfolio and the Advisor such factual information,
research reports and investment recommendations as the Advisor may
reasonably require. Such information may include written and oral
reports and analyses.
(b) INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT: If and to the extent requested by the
Advisor, the Sub-Advisor shall, subject to the supervision of the
Advisor, manage all or a portion of the investments of the Portfolio
in accordance with the investment objective, policies and limitations
provided in the Portfolio's Prospectus or other governing instruments,
as amended from time to time, the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the
"1940 Act") and rules thereunder, as amended from time to time, and
such other limitations as the Trust or Advisor may impose with respect
to the Portfolio by notice to the Sub-Advisor. With respect to the
portion of the investments of the Portfolio under its management, the
Sub-Advisor is authorized to make investment decisions on behalf of
the Portfolio with regard to any stock, bond, other security or
investment instrument, and to place orders for the purchase and sale
of such securities through such broker-dealers as the Sub-Advisor may
select. The Sub-Advisor may also be authorized, but only to the extent
such duties are delegated in writing by the Advisor, to provide
additional investment management services to the Portfolio, including
but not limited to services such as managing foreign currency
investments, purchasing and selling or writing futures and options
contracts, borrowing money, or lending securities on behalf of the
Portfolio. All investment management and any other activities of the
Sub-Advisor shall at all times be subject to the control and direction
of the Advisor and the Trust's Board of Trustees.
(c) SUBSIDIARIES AND AFFILIATES: The Sub-Advisor may perform any or
all of the services contemplated by this Agreement directly or through
such of its subsidiaries or other affiliated persons as the
Sub-Advisor shall determine; provided, however, that performance of
such services through such subsidiaries or other affiliated persons
shall have been approved by the Trust to the extent required pursuant
to the 1940 Act and rules thereunder.
2. Information to be Provided to the Trust and the Advisor: The
Sub-Advisor shall furnish such reports, evaluations, information or
analyses to the Trust and the Advisor as the Trust's Board of Trustees
or the Advisor may reasonably request from time to time, or as the
Sub-Advisor may deem to be desirable.
3. Brokerage: In connection with the services provided under
subparagraph (b) of paragraph 1 of this Agreement, the Sub-Advisor
shall place all orders for the purchase and sale of portfolio
securities for the Portfolio's account with brokers or dealers
selected by the Sub-Advisor, which may include brokers or dealers
affiliated with the Advisor or Sub-Advisor. The Sub-Advisor shall use
its best efforts to seek to execute portfolio transactions at prices
which are advantageous to the Portfolio and at commission rates which
are reasonable in relation to the benefits received. In selecting
brokers or dealers qualified to execute a particular transaction,
brokers or dealers may be selected who also provide brokerage and
research services (as those terms are defined in Section 28(e) of the
Securities Exchange Act of l934) to the Portfolio and/or to the other
accounts over which the Sub-Advisor or Advisor exercise investment
discretion. The Sub-Advisor is authorized to pay a broker or dealer
who provides such brokerage and research services a commission for
executing a portfolio transaction for the Portfolio which is in excess
of the amount of commission another broker or dealer would have
charged for effecting that transaction if the Sub-Advisor determines
in good faith that such amount of commission is reasonable in relation
to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such
broker or dealer. This determination may be viewed in terms of either
that particular transaction or the overall responsibilities which the
Sub-Advisor has with respect to accounts over which it exercises
investment discretion. The Trustees of the Trust shall periodically
review the commissions paid by the Portfolio to determine if the
commissions paid over representative periods of time were reasonable
in relation to the benefits to the Portfolio.
4. Compensation: The Advisor shall compensate the Sub-Advisor on the
following basis for the services to be furnished hereunder.
(a) INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE: For services provided under
subparagraph (a) of paragraph 1 of this Agreement, the Advisor agrees
to pay the Sub-Advisor a monthly Sub-Advisory Fee. The Sub-Advisory
Fee shall be equal to 105% of the Sub-Advisor's costs incurred in
connection with rendering the services referred to in subparagraph (a)
of paragraph 1 of this Agreement. The Sub-Advisory Fee shall not be
reduced to reflect expense reimbursements or fee waivers by the
Advisor, if any, in effect from time to time.
(b) INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT FEE: For services provided under
subparagraph (b) of paragraph 1 of this Agreement, the Advisor agrees
to pay the Sub-Advisor a monthly Investment Management Fee. The
Investment Management Fee shall be equal to: (i) 50% of the monthly
management fee rate (including performance adjustments, if any) that
the Portfolio is obligated to pay the Advisor under its Management
Contract with the Advisor, multiplied by: (ii) the fraction equal to
the net assets of the Portfolio as to which the Sub-Advisor shall have
provided investment management services divided by the net assets of
the Portfolio for that month. If in any fiscal year the aggregate
expenses of the Portfolio exceed any applicable expense limitation
imposed by any state or federal securities laws or regulations, and
the Advisor waives all or a portion of its management fee or
reimburses the Portfolio for expenses to the extent required to
satisfy such limitation, the Investment Management Fee paid to the
Sub-Advisor will be reduced by 50% of the amount of such waivers or
reimbursements multiplied by the fraction determined in (ii). If the
Sub-Advisor reduces its fees to reflect such waivers or reimbursements
and the Advisor subsequently recovers all or any portion of such
waivers and reimbursements, then the Sub-Advisor shall be entitled to
receive from the Advisor a proportionate share of the amount
recovered. To the extent that waivers and reimbursements by the
Advisor required by such limitations are in excess of the Advisor's
management fee, the Investment Management Fee paid to the Sub-Advisor
will be reduced to zero for that month, but in no event shall the
Sub-Advisor be required to reimburse the Advisor for all or a portion
of such excess reimbursements.
(c) PROVISION OF MULTIPLE SERVICES: If the Sub-Advisor shall have
provided both investment advisory services under subparagraph (a) and
investment management services under subparagraph (b) of paragraph 1
for the same portion of the investments of the Portfolio for the same
period, the fees paid to the Sub-Advisor with respect to such
investments shall be calculated exclusively under subparagraph (b) of
this paragraph 4.
5. Expenses: It is understood that the Portfolio will pay all of its
expenses other than those expressly stated to be payable by the
Sub-Advisor hereunder or by the Advisor under the Management Contract
with the Portfolio, which expenses payable by the Portfolio shall
include, without limitation, (i) interest and taxes; (ii) brokerage
commissions and other costs in connection with the purchase or sale of
securities and other investment instruments; (iii) fees and expenses
of the Trust's Trustees other than those who are "interested persons"
of the Trust, the Sub-Advisor or the Advisor; (iv) legal and audit
expenses; (v) custodian, registrar and transfer agent fees and
expenses; (vi) fees and expenses related to the registration and
qualification of the Trust and the Portfolio's shares for distribution
under state and federal securities laws; (vii) expenses of printing
and mailing reports and notices and proxy material to shareholders of
the Portfolio; (viii) all other expenses incidental to holding
meetings of the Portfolio's shareholders, including proxy
solicitations therefore; (ix) a pro rata share, based on relative net
assets of the Portfolio and other registered investment companies
having Advisory and Service or Management Contracts with the Advisor,
of 50% of insurance premiums for fidelity and other coverage; (x) its
proportionate share of association membership dues; (xi) expenses of
typesetting for printing Prospectuses and Statements of Additional
Information and supplements thereto; (xii) expenses of printing and
mailing Prospectuses and Statements of Additional Information and
supplements thereto sent to existing shareholders; and (xiii) such
non-recurring or extraordinary expenses as may arise, including those
relating to actions, suits or proceedings to which the Portfolio is a
party and the legal obligation which the Portfolio may have to
indemnify the Trust's Trustees and officers with respect thereto.
6. Interested Persons: It is understood that Trustees, officers and
shareholders of the Trust are or may be or become interested in the
Advisor or the Sub-Advisor as directors, officers or otherwise and
that directors, officers and stockholders of the Advisor or the
Sub-Advisor are or may be or become similarly interested in the Trust,
and that the Advisor or the Sub-Advisor may be or become interested in
the Trust as a shareholder or otherwise.
7. Services to Other Companies or Accounts: The services of the
Sub-Advisor to the Advisor are not to be deemed to be exclusive, the
Sub-Advisor being free to render services to others and engage in
other activities, provided, however, that such other services and
activities do not, during the term of this Agreement, interfere, in a
material manner, with the Sub-Advisor's ability to meet all of its
obligations hereunder. The Sub-Advisor shall for all purposes be an
independent contractor and not an agent or employee of the Advisor or
the Trust.
8. Standard of Care: In the absence of willful misfeasance, bad
faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of obligations or duties
hereunder on the part of the Sub-Advisor, the Sub-Advisor shall not be
subject to liability to the Advisor, the Trust or to any shareholder
of the Portfolio for any act or omission in the course of, or
connected with, rendering services hereunder or for any losses that
may be sustained in the purchase, holding or sale of any security.
9. Duration and Termination of Agreement; Amendments:
(a) Subject to prior termination as provided in sub-paragraph (d) of
this paragraph 9, this Agreement shall continue in force until July
31, 1999 and indefinitely thereafter, but only so long as the
continuance after such period shall be specifically approved at least
annually by vote of the Trust's Board of Trustees or by vote of a
majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Portfolio.
(b) This Agreement may be modified by mutual consent of the Advisor,
the Sub-Advisor and the Portfolio, subject to the provisions of
Section 15 of the 1940 Act, as modified by or interpreted by any
applicable order or orders of the Securities and Exchange Commission
(the "Commission") or any rules or regulations adopted by, or
interpretative releases of, the Commission.
(c) In addition to the requirements of sub-paragraphs (a) and (b) of
this paragraph 9, the terms of any continuance or modification of this
Agreement must have been approved by the vote of a majority of those
Trustees of the Trust who are not parties to this Agreement or
interested persons of any such party, cast in person at a meeting
called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
(d) Either the Advisor, the Sub-Advisor or the Portfolio may, at any
time on sixty (60) days' prior written notice to the other parties,
terminate this Agreement, without payment of any penalty, by action of
its Board of Trustees or Directors, or with respect to the Portfolio
by vote of a majority of its outstanding voting securities. This
Agreement shall terminate automatically in the event of its
assignment.
10. Limitation of Liability: The Sub-Advisor is hereby expressly put
on notice of the limitation of shareholder liability as set forth in
the Declaration of Trust or other organizational document of the Trust
and agrees that any obligations of the Trust or the Portfolio arising
in connection with this Agreement shall be limited in all cases to the
Portfolio and its assets, and the Sub-Advisor shall not seek
satisfaction of any such obligation from the shareholders or any
shareholder of the Portfolio. Nor shall the Sub-Advisor seek
satisfaction of any such obligation from the Trustees or any
individual Trustee.
11. Governing Law: This Agreement shall be governed by, and construed
in accordance with, the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts,
without giving effect to the choice of laws provisions thereof.
The terms "registered investment company," "vote of a majority of the
outstanding voting securities," "assignment," and "interested
persons," when used herein, shall have the respective meanings
specified in the Investment Company Act of 1940 as now in effect or as
hereafter amended.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF the parties hereto have caused this instrument to
be signed in their behalf by their respective officers thereunto duly
authorized, and their respective seals to be hereunto affixed, all as
of the date written above.
SIGNATURE LINES OMITTED
Exhibit 6(e)
FORM OF
SERVICE CONTRACT
With Respect to Initial Class Shares of:
{Insert trust name and fund name}
To Fidelity Distributors Corporation:
We desire to enter into a Contract with you for activities in
connection with (i) the distribution of shares of the funds noted
above (the "Funds") of which you are the principal underwriter as
defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "Act") and for
which you are the agent for the continuous distribution of shares, and
(ii) the servicing of holders of shares of the Funds and existing and
prospective holders of Variable Products (as defined below).
THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THIS CONTRACT ARE AS FOLLOWS:
1. We shall provide distribution and certain shareholder services for
our clients who own or are considering the purchase of variable
annuity contracts or variable life insurance policies for which shares
of the Funds are available as underlying investment options ("Variable
Products"), which services may include, without limitation, answering
questions about the Funds from owners of Variable Products; receiving
and answering correspondence (including requests for prospectuses and
statements of additional information for the Funds); performing
subaccounting with respect to Variable Products' values allocated to
the Funds; preparing, printing and distributing reports of values to
owners of Variable Products who have contract values allocated to the
Funds; printing and distributing prospectuses, statements of
additional information, any supplements to prospectuses and statements
of additional information, and shareholder reports; preparing,
printing and distributing marketing materials for Variable Products;
assisting customers in completing applications for Variable Products
and selecting underlying mutual fund investment options; preparing,
printing and distributing subaccount performance figures for
subaccounts investing in Fund shares; and providing other reasonable
assistance in connection with the distribution of Fund shares to
insurers.
2. We shall provide such office space and equipment, telephone
facilities and personnel (which may be all or any part of the space,
equipment and facilities currently used in our business, or all or any
personnel employed by us) as is necessary or beneficial for us to
provide information and services to existing and prospective owners of
Variable Products, and to assist you in providing services with
respect to Variable Products.
3. We agree to indemnify and hold you, the Funds, and the Funds'
advisers and transfer agent harmless from any and all direct or
indirect liabilities or losses resulting from requests, directions,
actions or inactions, of or by us or our officers, employees or agents
regarding the purchase, redemption, transfer or registration of Fund
shares that underlie Variable Products of our clients. Such
indemnification shall survive the termination of this Contract.
Neither we nor any of our officers, employees or agents are
authorized to make any representation concerning Fund shares except
those contained in the registration statement or prospectus for the
Fund shares, as such registration statement and prospectus may be
amended or supplemented from time to time, or in reports or proxy
statements for the Fund, or in sales literature or other promotional
material approved by the Fund or its designee or by you, except with
the permission of the Fund or you or the designee of either.
4. In consideration of the services and facilities described herein,
we shall be entitled to receive, and you shall pay or cause to be paid
to us, fees at an annual rate as set forth on the accompanying fee
schedule. We understand that the payment of such fees has been
authorized pursuant to, and shall be paid in accordance with, a
Distribution and Service Plan approved by the Board of Trustees of the
applicable Fund, by those Trustees who are not "interested persons" of
the Fund (as defined in the 1940 Act) and who have no direct or
indirect financial interest in the operation of the Distribution and
Service Plan or in any agreements related to the Distribution and
Service Plan ("Qualified Trustees"), and by shareholders of such
class; and that such fees are subject to change during the term of
this Contract and shall be paid only so long as this Contract is in
effect. We also understand and agree that, notwithstanding anything
to the contrary, if at any time payment of all such fees would, in
your reasonable determination, conflict with the limitations on sales
or service charges set forth in Section 2830(d) of the NASD Conduct
Rules, then such fees shall not be paid; provided that in such event
each Fund's Board of Trustees may, but is not required to, establish
procedures to pay such fees, or a portion thereof, in such manner and
amount as they shall deem appropriate.
5. We agree to conduct our activities in accordance with any
applicable federal or state laws and regulations, including securities
laws and any obligation thereunder to disclose to our clients the
receipt of fees in connection with their investment in Variable
Products.
6. This Contract shall continue in force for one year from the
effective date (see below), and thereafter shall continue
automatically for successive annual periods, provided such continuance
is specifically subject to termination without penalty at any time if
a majority of each Fund's Qualified Trustees or a majority of the
outstanding voting securities (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the
applicable class vote to terminate or not to continue the Distribution
and Service Plan. Either of us also may cancel this Contract without
penalty upon telephonic or written notice to the other; and upon
telephonic or written notice to us, you may also amend or change any
provision of this Contract. This Contract will also terminate
automatically in the event of its assignment (as defined in the 1940
Act).
7. All communications to you shall be sent to you at your offices, 82
Devonshire Street, Boston, MA 02109. Any notice to us shall be duly
given if mailed or telegraphed to us at the address shown in this
Contract.
8. This Contract shall be construed in accordance with the laws of
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Very truly yours,
Company Name:______________________________________
(Please Print or Type Name of Qualified Recipient)
By: ____________________________________________
Name:
Title:
____________________________________________________
Street
____________________________________________________
City State Zip Code
Date: ______________________________
FIDELITY DISTRIBUTORS CORPORATION
By: ______________________________________
Eric D. Roiter
NOTE: Please return TWO signed copies of this Service Contract to
Fidelity Distributors Corporation. Upon acceptance, one countersigned
copy will be returned to you.
FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY:
EFFECTIVE DATE: ___________________
FEE SCHEDULE FOR QUALIFIED RECIPIENTS OF
{Insert trust name and fund name}
(1) Those who have signed the Service Contract and who render
distribution, administrative support and recordkeeping services as
described in paragraph 1 of the Service Contract will hereafter be
referred to as "Qualified Recipients."
(2) A Qualified Recipient providing services pursuant to the Service
Contract will be paid a quarterly fee at an annualized rate of _____
(_) basis points of the average aggregate net assets of its clients
invested in Initial Class shares of the Funds listed above. In order
to be assured of receiving full payment under this paragraph (2) for a
given calendar quarter, a Qualified Recipient must have insurance
company clients with a minimum of $___ million of average net assets
in the aggregate in the Funds listed below. For any calendar quarter
during which assets in these Funds are in the aggregate less than $___
million, the amount of qualifying assets may be considered to be zero
for the purpose of computing the payments due under this paragraph
(2), and the payments under this paragraph (2) may be reduced or
eliminated.
{Insert trust name and fund name}
(3) The fees paid to each Qualified Recipient will be calculated and
paid quarterly. Checks will be mailed to each Qualified Recipient by
the 30th of the following month.
Exhibit 6(f)
FORM OF
SERVICE CONTRACT
With Respect to Service Class Shares of:
{Insert trust name and fund name}
To Fidelity Distributors Corporation:
We desire to enter into a Contract with you for activities in
connection with (i) the distribution of shares of the funds noted
above (the "Funds") of which you are the principal underwriter as
defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "Act") and for
which you are the agent for the continuous distribution of shares, and
(ii) the servicing of holders of shares of the Funds and existing and
prospective holders of Variable Products (as defined below).
THE TERMS AND CONDITIONS OF THIS CONTRACT ARE AS FOLLOWS:
1. We shall provide distribution and certain shareholder services for
our clients who own or are considering the purchase of variable
annuity contracts or variable life insurance policies for which shares
of the Funds are available as underlying investment options ("Variable
Products"), which services may include, without limitation, answering
questions about the Funds from owners of Variable Products; receiving
and answering correspondence (including requests for prospectuses and
statements of additional information for the Funds); performing
subaccounting with respect to Variable Products' values allocated to
the Funds; preparing, printing and distributing reports of values to
owners of Variable Products who have contract values allocated to the
Funds; printing and distributing prospectuses, statements of
additional information, any supplements to prospectuses and statements
of additional information, and shareholder reports; preparing,
printing and distributing marketing materials for Variable Products;
assisting customers in completing applications for Variable Products
and selecting underlying mutual fund investment options; preparing,
printing and distributing subaccount performance figures for
subaccounts investing in Fund shares; and providing other reasonable
assistance in connection with the distribution of Fund shares to
insurers.
2. We shall provide such office space and equipment, telephone
facilities and personnel (which may be all or any part of the space,
equipment and facilities currently used in our business, or all or any
personnel employed by us) as is necessary or beneficial for us to
provide information and services to existing and prospective owners of
Variable Products, and to assist you in providing services with
respect to Variable Products.
3. We agree to indemnify and hold you, the Funds, and the Funds'
advisers and transfer agent harmless from any and all direct or
indirect liabilities or losses resulting from requests, directions,
actions or inactions, of or by us or our officers, employees or agents
regarding the purchase, redemption, transfer or registration of Fund
shares that underlie Variable Products of our clients. Such
indemnification shall survive the termination of this Contract.
Neither we nor any of our officers, employees or agents are
authorized to make any representation concerning Fund shares except
those contained in the registration statement or prospectus for the
Fund shares, as such registration statement and prospectus may be
amended or supplemented from time to time, or in reports or proxy
statements for the Fund, or in sales literature or other promotional
material approved by the Fund or its designee or by you, except with
the permission of the Fund or you or the designee of either.
4. In consideration of the services and facilities described herein,
we shall be entitled to receive, and you shall pay or cause to be paid
to us, fees at an annual rate as set forth on the accompanying fee
schedule. We understand that the payment of such fees has been
authorized pursuant to, and shall be paid in accordance with, a
Distribution and Service Plan approved by the Board of Trustees of the
applicable Fund, by those Trustees who are not "interested persons" of
the Fund (as defined in the 1940 Act) and who have no direct or
indirect financial interest in the operation of the Distribution and
Service Plan or in any agreements related to the Distribution and
Service Plan ("Qualified Trustees"), and by shareholders of such
class; and that such fees are subject to change during the term of
this Contract and shall be paid only so long as this Contract is in
effect. We also understand and agree that, notwithstanding anything
to the contrary, if at any time payment of all such fees would, in
your reasonable determination, conflict with the limitations on sales
or service charges set forth in Section 2830(d) of the NASD Conduct
Rules, then such fees shall not be paid; provided that in such event
each Fund's Board of Trustees may, but is not required to, establish
procedures to pay such fees, or a portion thereof, in such manner and
amount as they shall deem appropriate.
5. We agree to conduct our activities in accordance with any
applicable federal or state laws and regulations, including securities
laws and any obligation thereunder to disclose to our clients the
receipt of fees in connection with their investment in Variable
Products.
6. This Contract shall continue in force for one year from the
effective date (see below), and thereafter shall continue
automatically for successive annual periods, provided such continuance
is specifically subject to termination without penalty at any time if
a majority of each Fund's Qualified Trustees or a majority of the
outstanding voting securities (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the
applicable class vote to terminate or not to continue the Distribution
and Service Plan. Either of us also may cancel this Contract without
penalty upon telephonic or written notice to the other; and upon
telephonic or written notice to us, you may also amend or change any
provision of this Contract. This Contract will also terminate
automatically in the event of its assignment (as defined in the 1940
Act).
7. All communications to you shall be sent to you at your offices, 82
Devonshire Street, Boston, MA 02109. Any notice to us shall be duly
given if mailed or telegraphed to us at the address shown in this
Contract.
8. This Contract shall be construed in accordance with the laws of
the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Very truly yours,
Company Name:______________________________________
(Please Print or Type Name of Qualified Recipient)
By: ____________________________________________
Name:
Title:
____________________________________________________
Street
____________________________________________________
City State Zip Code
Date: ______________________________
FIDELITY DISTRIBUTORS CORPORATION
By: ______________________________________
Eric D. Roiter
NOTE: Please return TWO signed copies of this Service Contract to
Fidelity Distributors Corporation. Upon acceptance, one countersigned
copy will be returned to you.
FOR INTERNAL USE ONLY:
EFFECTIVE DATE: ___________________
FEE SCHEDULE FOR QUALIFIED RECIPIENTS OF
{Insert trust name and fund name}
(1) Those who have signed the Service Contract and who render
distribution, administrative support and recordkeeping services as
described in paragraph 1 of the Service Contract will hereafter be
referred to as "Qualified Recipients."
(2) A Qualified Recipient providing services pursuant to the Service
Contract will be paid a quarterly fee at an annualized rate of __
basis points of the average aggregate net assets of its clients
invested in Service Class shares of the Funds listed above.
(3) In addition, a Qualified Recipient providing services pursuant
to the Service Contract will be paid a quarterly fee at an annualized
rate of __ basis points of the average aggregate net assets of its
clients invested in service class Shares of the Funds listed above.
In order to be assured of receiving full payment under this paragraph
(3) for a given calendar quarter, a Qualified Recipient must have
insurance company clients with a minimum of $___ million of average
net assets in the aggregate in the Funds listed below. For any
calendar quarter during which assets in these Funds are in the
aggregate less than $___ million, the amount of qualifying assets may
be considered to be zero for the purpose of computing the payments due
under this paragraph (3), and the payments under this paragraph (3)
may be reduced or eliminated.
{Insert trust name and fund name}
(4) The fees paid to each Qualified Recipient will be calculated and
paid quarterly. Checks will be mailed to each Qualified Recipient by
the 30th of the following month.
Exhibit 6(g)
FORM OF
GENERAL DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENT
between
VARIABLE INSURANCE PRODUCTS FUND III
and
FIDELITY DISTRIBUTORS CORPORATION
Agreement made this ___ day of December 1998, Variable Insurance
Products Fund III, a Massachusetts business trust having its principal
place of business in Boston, Massachusetts and which may issue one or
more series of beneficial interest ("Issuer"), with respect to shares
of Mid Cap Portfolio, a series of the Issuer, and Fidelity
Distributors Corporation, a Massachusetts corporation having its
principal place of business in Boston, Massachusetts ("Distributors").
In consideration of the mutual promises and undertakings herein
contained, the parties agree as follows:
1. Sale of Shares - The Issuer grants to Distributors the right to
sell shares on behalf of the Issuer during the term of this Agreement
and subject to the registration requirements of the Securities Act of
1933, as amended ("1933 Act"), and of the laws governing the sale of
securities in the various states ("Blue Sky Laws") under the following
terms and conditions: Distributors (i) shall have the right to sell,
as agent on behalf of the Issuer, shares authorized for issue and
registered under the 1933 Act, and (ii) may sell shares under offers
of exchange, if available, between and among the funds advised by
Fidelity Management & Research Company ("FMR") or any of its
affiliates.
2. Sales of Shares by the Issuer - The rights granted to Distributors
shall be nonexclusive in that the Issuer reserves the right to sell
its shares to investors on applications received and accepted by the
Issuer. Further, the Issuer reserves the right to issue shares in
connection with the merger or consolidation, or acquisition by the
Issuer through purchase or otherwise, with any other investment
company, trust, or personal holding company.
3. Shares Covered by this Agreement - This Agreement shall apply to
unissued shares of the Issuer, shares of the Issuer held in its
treasury in the event that in the discretion of the Issuer treasury
shares shall be sold, and shares of the Issuer repurchased for resale.
4. Public Offering Price - Except as otherwise noted in the Issuer's
current Prospectus and/or Statement of Additional Information, all
shares sold to investors by Distributors or the Issuer will be sold at
the public offering price. The public offering price for all accepted
subscriptions will be the net asset value per share, as determined in
the manner described in the Issuer's current Prospectus and/or
Statement of Additional Information. The Issuer shall in all cases
receive the net asset value per share on all sales. If a sales charge
is in effect, Distributors shall have the right subject to such rules
or regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission as may then
be in effect pursuant to Section 22 of the Investment Company Act of
1940 to pay a portion of the sales charge to dealers who have sold
shares of the Issuer. If a fee in connection with the shareholder
redemptions is in effect, the Issuer shall collect the fee on behalf
of Distributors and, unless otherwise agreed upon by the Issuer and
Distributors, Distributors shall be entitled to receive all of such
fees.
5. Suspension of Sales - If and whenever the determination of net
asset value is suspended and until such suspension is terminated, no
further orders for shares shall be processed by Distributors except
such unconditional orders as may have been placed with Distributors
before it had knowledge of the suspension. In addition, the Issuer
reserves the right to suspend sales and Distributors' authority to
process orders for shares on behalf of the Issuer if, in the judgment
of the Issuer, it is in the best interests of the Issuer to do so.
Suspension will continue for such period as may be determined by the
Issuer.
6. Solicitation of Sales - In consideration of these rights granted to
Distributors, Distributors agrees to use all reasonable efforts,
consistent with its other business, to secure purchasers for shares of
the Issuer. This shall not prevent Distributors from entering into
like arrangements (including arrangements involving the payment of
underwriting commissions) with other issuers. This does not obligate
Distributors to register as a broker or dealer under the Blue Sky Laws
of any jurisdiction in which it is not now registered or to maintain
its registration in any jurisdiction in which it is now registered.
If a sales charge is in effect, Distributors shall have the right to
enter into sales agreements with dealers of its choice for the sale of
shares of the Issuer to the public at the public offering price only
and fix in such agreements the portion of the sales charge which may
be retained by dealers, provided that the Issuer shall approve the
form of the dealer agreement and the dealer discounts set forth
therein and shall evidence such approval by filing said form of dealer
agreement and amendments thereto as an exhibit to its currently
effective Registration Statement under the 1933 Act.
7. Authorized Representations - Distributors is not authorized by the
Issuer to give any information or to make any representations other
than those contained in the appropriate registration statements or
Prospectuses and Statements of Additional Information filed with the
Securities and Exchange Commission under the 1933 Act (as these
registration statements), Prospectuses and Statements of Additional
Information may be amended from time to time), or contained in
shareholder reports or other material that may be prepared by or on
behalf of the Issuer for Distributors' use. This shall not be
construed to prevent Distributors from preparing and distributing
sales literature or other material as it may deem appropriate.
8. Portfolio Securities - Portfolio securities of the Issuer may be
bought or sold by or through Distributors, and Distributors may
participate directly or indirectly in brokerage commissions or
"spreads" for transactions in portfolio securities of the Issuer.
9. Registration of Shares - The Issuer agrees that it will take all
action necessary to register shares under the 1933 Act (subject to the
necessary approval of its shareholders) so that there will be
available for sale the number of shares Distributors may reasonably be
expected to sell. The Issuer shall make available to Distributors
such number of copies of its currently effective Prospectus and
Statement of Additional Information as Distributors may reasonably
request. The Issuer shall furnish to Distributors copies of all
information, financial statements and other papers which Distributors
may reasonably request for use in connection with the distribution of
shares of the Issuer.
10. Expenses - The Issuer shall pay all fees and expenses (a) in
connection with the preparation, setting in type and filing of any
registration statement, Prospectus and Statement of Additional
Information under the 1933 Act and amendments for the issuer of its
shares, (b) in connection with the registration and qualification of
shares for sale in the various states in which the Board of Trustees
of the Issuer shall determine it advisable to qualify such shares for
sales (including registering the Issuer as a broker or dealer or any
officer of the Issuer as agent or salesman in any state), (c) of
preparing, setting in type, printing and mailing any report or other
communication to shareholders of that Issuer in their capacity as
such, and (d) of preparing, setting in type, printing and mailing
Prospectuses, Statements of Additional Information and any supplements
thereto sent to existing shareholders.
As provided in the Distribution and Service Plan adopted by the
Issuer, it is recognized by the Issuer that FMR may make payment to
Distributors with respect to any expenses incurred in the distribution
of shares of the Issuer, such payments payable from the past profits
or other resources of FMR including management fees paid to it by the
Issuer.
11. Indemnification - The Issuer agrees to indemnify and hold
harmless Distributors and each of its directors and officers and each
person, if any, who controls Distributors within the meaning of
Section 15 of the 1933 Act against any loss, liability, claim, damages
or expense (including the reasonable cost of investigating or
defending any alleged loss, liability, claim, damages, or expense and
reasonable counsel fees incurred in connection therewith) arising by
reason of any person acquiring any shares, based upon the ground that
the registration statement, Prospectus, Statement of Additional
Information, shareholder reports or other information filed or made
public by the Issuer (as from time to time amended) included an untrue
statement of a material fact or omitted to state a material fact
required to be stated or necessary in order to make the statements not
misleading under the 1933 Act, or any other statute or the common law.
However, the Issuer does not agree to indemnify Distributors or hold
it harmless to the extent that the statement or omission was made in
reliance upon, and in conformity with, information furnished to the
Issuer by or on behalf of Distributors. In no case (i) is the
indemnity of the Issuer in favor of Distributors or any person
indemnified to be deemed to protect Distributors or any person against
any liability to the Issuer or its security holders to which
Distributors or such person would otherwise be subject by reason of
wilful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance
of its duties or by reason of its reckless disregard of its
obligations and duties under this Agreement, or (ii) is the Issuer to
be liable under its indemnity agreement contained in this paragraph
with respect to any claim made against Distributors or any person
indemnified unless Distributors or person, as the case may be, shall
have notified the Issuer in writing of the claim within a reasonable
time after the summons or other first written notification giving
information of the nature of the claim shall have been served upon
Distributors or any such person (or after Distributors or such person
shall have received notice of service on any designated agent).
However, failure to notify the Issuer of any claim shall not relieve
the Issuer from any liability which it may have to Distributors or any
person against whom such action is brought otherwise than on account
of its indemnity agreement contained in this paragraph. The Issuer
shall be entitled to participate at its own expense in the defense,
or, if it so elects, to assume the defense of any suit brought to
enforce any claim, but if the Issuer elects to assume the defense, the
defense shall be conducted by counsel chosen by it and satisfactory to
Distributors or person or persons, defendant or defendants in the
suit. In the event the Issuer elects to assume the defense of any
suit and retain counsel, Distributors, officers or directors or
controlling person or persons, defendant or defendants in the suit,
shall bear the fees and expenses of any additional counsel retained by
them. If the Issuer does not elect to assume the defense of any suit,
it will reimburse Distributors, officers or directors or controlling
person or persons, defendant or defendants in the suit, for the
reasonable fees and expenses of any counsel retained by them. The
Issuer agrees to notify Distributors promptly of the commencement of
any litigation or proceedings against it or any of its officers or
trustees in connection with the issuance or sale of any of the shares.
Distributors also covenants and agrees that it will indemnify and
hold harmless the Issuer and each of its Board members and officers
and each person, if any, who controls the Issuer within the meaning of
Section 15 of the 1933 Act, against any loss, liability, damages,
claim or expense (including the reasonable cost of investigating or
defending any alleged loss, liability, damages, claim or expense and
reasonable counsel fees incurred in connection therewith) arising by
reason of any person acquiring any shares, based upon the 1933 Act or
any other statute or common law, alleging any wrongful act of
Distributors or any of its employees or alleging that the registration
statement, Prospectus, Statement of Additional Information,
shareholder reports or other information filed or made public by the
Issuer (as from time to time amended) included an untrue statement of
a material fact or omitted to state a material fact required to be
stated or necessary in order to make the statements not misleading,
insofar as the statement or omission was made in reliance upon, and in
conformity with information furnished to the Issuer by or on behalf of
Distributors. In no case (i) is the indemnity of Distributors in
favor or the Issuer or any person indemnified to be deemed to protect
the Issuer or any person against any liability to which the Issuer or
such person would otherwise be subject by reason of willful
misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its
duties or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and
duties under this Agreement, or (ii) is Distributors to be liable
under its indemnity agreement contained in this paragraph with respect
to any claim made against the Issuer or any person indemnified unless
the Issuer or person, as the case may be, shall have notified
Distributors in writing of the claim within a reasonable time after
the summons or other first written notification giving information of
the nature of the claim shall have been served upon the Issuer or any
such person (or after the Issuer or such person shall have received
notice of service on any designated agent). However, failure to
notify Distributors of any claim shall not relieve Distributors from
any liability which it may have to the Issuer or any person against
whom the action is brought otherwise than on account of its indemnity
agreement contained in this paragraph. In the case of any notice to
Distributors, it shall be entitled to participate, at its own expense,
in the defense or, if it so elects, to assume the defense of any suit
brought to enforse the claim, but if Distributors elects to assume the
defense, the defense shall be conducted by counsel chosen by it and
satisfactory to the Issuer, to its officers and Board and to any
controlling person or persons, defendant or defendants in the suit.
In the event that Distributors elects to assume the defense of any
suit and retain counsel, the Issuer or controlling persons, defendant
or defendants in the suits, shall bear the fees and expense of any
additional counsel retained by them. If Distributors does not elect
to assume the defense of any suit, it will reimburse the Issuer,
officers and Board or controlling person or persons, defendant or
defendants in the suit, for the reasonable fees and expenses of any
counsel retained by them. Distributors agrees to notify the Issuer
promptly of the commencement of any litigation or proceedings against
it in connection with the issuer and sale of any of the shares.
12. Effective Date - This agreement shall be effective upon its
execution, and unless terminated as provided, shall continue in force
until March 31, 1999 and thereafter from year to year, provided
continuance is approved annually by the vote of a majority of the
Board members of the Issuer, and by the vote of those Board members of
the Issuer who are not "interested persons" of the Issuer and, if a
plan under Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 is in
effect, by the vote of those Board members of the Issuer who are not
"interested persons" of the Issuer and who are not parties to the
Distribution and Service Plan or this Agreement and have no financial
interest in the operation of the Distribution and Service Plan or in
any agreements related to the Distribution and Service Plan, cast in
person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on the approval.
This Agreement shall automatically terminate in the event of its
assignment. As used in this paragraph, the terms "assignment" and
"interested persons" shall have the respective meanings specified in
the Investment Company Act of 1940 as now in effect or as hereafter
amended. In addition to termination by failure to approve continuance
or by assignment, this Agreement may at any time be terminated by
either party upon not less than sixty days' prior written notice to
the other party.
13. Notice - Any notice required or permitted to be given by either
party to the other shall be deemed sufficient if sent by registered or
certified mail, postage prepaid, addressed by the party giving notice
to the other party at the last address furnished by the other party to
the party giving notice: if to the Issuer, at 82 Devonshire Street,
Boston, Massachusetts, and if to Distributors, at 82 Devonshire
Street, Boston, Massachusetts.
14. Limitation of Liability - Distributors is expressly put on notice
of the limitation of shareholder liability as set forth in the
Declaration of Trust or other organizational document of the Issuer
and agrees that the obligations assumed by the Issuer under this
contract shall be limited in all cases to the Issuer and its assets.
Distributors shall not seek satisfaction of any such obligation from
the shareholders or any shareholder of the Issuer. Nor shall
Distributors seek satisfaction of any such obligation from the
Trustees or any individual Trustee of the Issuer. Distributors
understands that the rights and obligations of each series of shares
of the Issuer under the Issuer's Declaration of Trust or other
organizational document are separate and distinct from those of any
and all other series.
15. This agreement shall be governed by, and construed in accordance
with, the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, without giving
effect to the choice of laws provisions thereof.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Issuer has executed this instrument in its
name and behalf, and its seal affixed, by one of its officers duly
authorized, and the Distributor has executed this instrument in its
name and behalf, and its corporate seal affixed, by one of its
officers duly authorized, as of the day and year first above written.
SIGNATURE LINES OMITTED
Exhibit 8(i)
CUSTODIAN AGREEMENT
Dated as of: September 1, 1994
Between
Each of the Investment Companies
Listed on Appendix "A" Attached Hereto
and
Brown Brothers Harriman & Company
TABLE OF CONTENTS
ARTICLE
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Page
I. APPOINTMENT OF CUSTODIAN 1
II. POWERS AND DUTIES OF CUSTODIAN 1
2.01 Safekeeping 1
2.02 Manner of Holding Securities 1
2.03 Security Purchases 2
2.04 Exchanges of Securities 2
2.05 Sales of Securities 3
2.06 Depositary Receipts 3
2.07 Exercise of Rights; Tender Offers 3
2.08 Stock Dividends, Rights, Etc. 3
2.09 Options 4
2.10 Futures Contracts 4
2.11 Borrowing 4
2.12 Interest Bearing Deposits 5
2.13 Foreign Exchange Transactions 5
2.14 Securities Loans 5
2.15 Collections 6
2.16 Dividends, Distributions and Redemptions 6
2.17 Proceeds from Shares Sold 6
2.18 Proxies, Notices, Etc. 6
2.19 Bills and Other Disbursements 7
2.20 Nondiscretionary Functions 7
2.21 Bank Accounts 7
2.22 Deposit of Fund Assets in Securities Systems 7
2.23 Other Transfers 8
2.24 Establishment of Segregated Account 9
2.25 Custodian's Books and Records . 9
2.26 Opinion of Fund's Independent Certified Public
Accountants 9
2.27 Reports of Independent Certified Public Accountants 10
2.28 Overdraft Facility 10
III. PROPER INSTRUCTIONS, SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
AND RELATED MATTERS 10
3.01 Proper Instructions and Special Instructions 10
3.02 Authorized Persons 11
3.03 Persons Having Access to Assets of the Portfolios 11
3.04 Actions of the Custodian Based on Proper
Instructions and Special Instructions 11
IV. SUBCUSTODIANS 11
4.01 Domestic Subcustodians 12
4.02 Foreign Subcustodians and Interim Subcustodians 12
4.03 Special Subcustodians 13
4.04 Termination of a Subcustodian 13
4.05 Certification Regarding Foreign Subcustodians 13
V. STANDARD OF CARE; INDEMNIFICATION 14
5.01 Standard of Care 14
5.02 Liability of Custodian for Actions of Other Persons 15
5.03 Indemnification 15
5.04 Investment Limitations 16
5.05 Fund's Right to Proceed 16
VI. COMPENSATION 17
VII. TERMINATION 17
7.01 Termination of Agreement as to One or More Funds 17
7.02 Termination as to One or More Portfolios 18
VIII. DEFINED TERMS 18
IX. MISCELLANEOUS 19
9.01 Execution of Documents, Etc 19
9.02 Representative Capacity; Nonrecourse Obligations 19
9.03 Several Obligations of the Funds and the Portfolios 19
9.04 Representations and Warranties 19
9.05 Entire Agreement 20
9.06 Waivers and Amendments 20
9.07 Interpretation 20
9.08 Captions 20
9.09 Governing Law 20
9.10 Notices 21
IX. MISCELLANEOUS 21
9.11 Assignment 21
9.12 Counterparts 21
9.13 Confidentiality; Survival of Obligations 21
</TABLE>
APPENDICES
Appendix "A" - List of Funds and Portfolios
Appendix "B" - List of Additional Custodians,
Special Subcustodians and Foreign Subcustodians
Appendix "C" - Procedures Relating to
Custodian's Security Interest
CUSTODIAN AGREEMENT
AGREEMENT made as of the 1st day of September, 1994 between each of
the Investment Companies Listed on Appendix "A" hereto, as the same
may be amended from time to time (each a "Fund" and collectively the
"Funds") and Brown Brothers Harriman & Company (the "Custodian").
W I T N E S S E T H
WHEREAS, each Fund is or may be organized with one or more series of
shares, each of which shall represent an interest in a separate
portfolio of cash, securities and other assets (all such existing and
additional series now or hereafter listed on Appendix "A" being
hereinafter referred to individually, as a "Portfolio," and
collectively, as the "Portfolios"); and
WHEREAS, each Fund desires to appoint the Custodian as custodian on
behalf of each of its Portfolios in accordance with the provisions of
the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "1940 Act"), and
the rules and regulations thereunder, under the terms and conditions
set forth in this Agreement, and the Custodian has agreed so to act as
custodian.
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants and
agreements herein contained, the parties hereto agree as follows:
ARTICLE I
APPOINTMENT OF CUSTODIAN
On behalf of each of its Portfolios, each Fund hereby employs and
appoints the Custodian as a custodian, subject to the terms and
provisions of this Agreement. Each Fund shall deliver to the
Custodian, or shall cause to be delivered to the Custodian, cash,
securities and other assets owned by each of its Portfolios from time
to time during the term of this Agreement and shall specify to which
of its Portfolios such cash, securities and other assets are to be
specifically allocated.
ARTICLE II
POWERS AND DUTIES OF CUSTODIAN
As custodian, the Custodian shall have and perform the powers and
duties set forth in this Article II. Pursuant to and in accordance
with Article IV hereof, the Custodian may appoint one or more
Subcustodians (as hereinafter defined) to exercise the powers and
perform the duties of the Custodian set forth in this Article II and
references to the Custodian in this Article II shall include any
Subcustodian so appointed.
Section 2.01. Safekeeping. The Custodian shall keep safely all
cash, securities and other assets of each Fund's Portfolios delivered
to the Custodian and, on behalf of such Portfolios, the Custodian
shall, from time to time, accept delivery of cash, securities and
other assets for safekeeping.
Section 2.02. Manner of Holding Securities.
(a) The Custodian shall at all times hold securities of each Fund's
Portfolios either: (i) by physical possession of the share
certificates or other instruments representing such securities in
registered or bearer form; or (ii) in book-entry form by a Securities
System (as hereinafter defined) in accordance with the provisions of
Section 2.22 below.
(b) The Custodian shall at all times hold registered securities of
each Portfolio in the name of the Custodian, the Portfolio or a
nominee of either of them, unless specifically directed by Proper
Instructions to hold such registered securities in so-called street
name; provided that, in any event, all such securities and other
assets shall be held in an account of the Custodian containing only
assets of a Portfolio, or only assets held by the Custodian as a
fiduciary or custodian for customers; and provided further, that the
records of the Custodian shall indicate at all times the Portfolio or
other customer for which such securities and other assets are held in
such account and the respective interests therein.
Section 2.03. Security Purchases. Upon receipt of Proper
Instructions (as hereinafter defined), the Custodian shall pay for and
receive securities purchased for the account of a Portfolio, provided
that payment shall be made by the Custodian only upon receipt of the
securities: (a) by the Custodian; (b) by a clearing corporation of a
national securities exchange of which the Custodian is a member; or
(c) by a Securities System. Notwithstanding the foregoing, upon
receipt of Proper Instructions: (i) in the case of a repurchase
agreement, the Custodian may release funds to a Securities System
prior to the receipt of advice from the Securities System that the
securities underlying such repurchase agreement have been transferred
by book-entry into the Account (as hereinafter defined) maintained
with such Securities System by the Custodian, provided that the
Custodian's instructions to the Securities System require that the
Securities System may make payment of such funds to the other party to
the repurchase agreement only upon transfer by book-entry of the
securities underlying the repurchase agreement into the Account; (ii)
in the case of time deposits, call account deposits, currency
deposits, and other deposits, foreign exchange transactions, futures
contracts or options, pursuant to Sections 2.09, 2.10, 2.12 and 2.13
hereof, the Custodian may make payment therefor before receipt of an
advice or confirmation evidencing said deposit or entry into such
transaction; (iii) in the case of the purchase of securities, the
settlement of which occurs outside of the United States of America,
the Custodian may make payment therefor and receive delivery of such
securities in accordance with local custom and practice generally
accepted by Institutional Clients (as hereinafter defined) in the
country in which the settlement occurs, but in all events subject to
the standard of care set forth in Article V hereof; and (iv) in the
case of the purchase of securities in which, in accordance with
standard industry custom and practice generally accepted by
Institutional Clients with respect to such securities, the receipt of
such securities and the payment therefor take place in different
countries, the Custodian may receive delivery of such securities and
make payment therefor in accordance with standard industry custom and
practice for such securities generally accepted by Institutional
Clients, but in all events subject to the standard of care set forth
in Article V hereof. For purposes of this Agreement, an
"Institutional Client" shall mean a major commercial bank,
corporation, insurance company, or substantially similar institution,
which, as a substantial part of its business operations, purchases or
sells securities and makes use of custodial services.
Section 2.04. Exchanges of Securities. Upon receipt of Proper
Instructions, the Custodian shall exchange securities held by it for
the account of a Portfolio for other securities in connection with any
reorganization, recapitalization, split-up of shares, change of par
value, conversion or other event relating to the securities or the
issuer of such securities, and shall deposit any such securities in
accordance with the terms of any reorganization or protective plan.
The Custodian shall, without receiving Proper Instructions: surrender
securities in temporary form for definitive securities; surrender
securities for transfer into the name of the Custodian, a Portfolio or
a nominee of either of them, as permitted by Section 2.02(b); and
surrender securities for a different number of certificates or
instruments representing the same number of shares or same principal
amount of indebtedness, provided that the securities to be issued will
be delivered to the Custodian or a nominee of the Custodian.
Section 2.05. Sales of Securities. Upon receipt of Proper
Instructions, the Custodian shall make delivery of securities which
have been sold for the account of a Portfolio, but only against
payment therefor in the form of: (a) cash, certified check, bank
cashier's check, bank credit, or bank wire transfer; (b) credit to the
account of the Custodian with a clearing corporation of a national
securities exchange of which the Custodian is a member; or (c) credit
to the Account of the Custodian with a Securities System, in
accordance with the provisions of Section 2.22 hereof.
Notwithstanding the foregoing: (i) in the case of the sale of
securities, the settlement of which occurs outside of the United
States of America, such securities shall be delivered and paid for in
accordance with local custom and practice generally accepted by
Institutional Clients in the country in which the settlement occurs,
but in all events subject to the standard of care set forth in Article
V hereof; (ii) in the case of the sale of securities in which, in
accordance with standard industry custom and practice generally
accepted by Institutional Clients with respect to such securities, the
delivery of such securities and receipt of payment therefor take place
in different countries, the Custodian may deliver such securities and
receive payment therefor in accordance with standard industry custom
and practice for such securities generally accepted by Institutional
Clients, but in all events subject to the standard of care set forth
in Article V hereof; and (iii) in the case of securities held in
physical form, such securities shall be delivered and paid for in
accordance with "street delivery custom" to a broker or its clearing
agent, against delivery to the Custodian of a receipt for such
securities, provided that the Custodian shall have taken reasonable
steps to ensure prompt collection of the payment for, or the return
of, such securities by the broker or its clearing agent, and provided
further that the Custodian shall not be responsible for the selection
of or the failure or inability to perform of such broker or its
clearing agent.
Section 2.06. Depositary Receipts. Upon receipt of Proper
Instructions, the Custodian shall surrender securities to the
depositary used for such securities by an issuer of American
Depositary Receipts or International Depositary Receipts (hereinafter
referred to, collectively, as "ADRs"), against a written receipt
therefor adequately describing such securities and written evidence
satisfactory to the Custodian that the depositary has acknowledged
receipt of instructions to issue ADRs with respect to such securities
in the name of the Custodian or a nominee of the Custodian, for
delivery to the Custodian at such place as the Custodian may from time
to time designate. Upon receipt of Proper Instructions, the Custodian
shall surrender ADRs to the issuer thereof, against a written receipt
therefor adequately describing the ADRs surrendered and written
evidence satisfactory to the Custodian that the issuer of the ADRs has
acknowledged receipt of instructions to cause its depository to
deliver the securities underlying such ADRs to the Custodian.
Section 2.07. Exercise of Rights; Tender Offers. Upon receipt of
Proper Instructions, the Custodian shall: (a) deliver warrants, puts,
calls, rights or similar securities to the issuer or trustee thereof,
or to the agent of such issuer or trustee, for the purpose of exercise
or sale, provided that the new securities, cash or other assets, if
any, acquired as a result of such actions are to be delivered to the
Custodian; and (b) deposit securities upon invitations for tenders
thereof, provided that the consideration for such securities is to be
paid or delivered to the Custodian, or the tendered securities are to
be returned to the Custodian. Notwithstanding any provision of this
Agreement to the contrary, the Custodian shall take all necessary
action, unless otherwise directed to the contrary in Proper
Instructions, to comply with the terms of all mandatory or compulsory
exchanges, calls, tenders, redemptions, or similar rights of security
ownership, and shall promptly notify each applicable Fund of such
action in writing by facsimile transmission or in such other manner as
such Fund and the Custodian may agree in writing.
Section 2.08. Stock Dividends, Rights, Etc. The Custodian shall
receive and collect all stock dividends, rights and other items of
like nature and, upon receipt of Proper Instructions, take action with
respect to the same as directed in such Proper Instructions.
Section 2.09. Options. Upon receipt of Proper Instructions and in
accordance with the provisions of any agreement between the Custodian,
any registered broker-dealer and, if necessary, a Fund on behalf of
any applicable Portfolio relating to compliance with the rules of the
Options Clearing Corporation or of any registered national securities
exchange or similar organization(s), the Custodian shall: (a) receive
and retain confirmations or other documents, if any, evidencing the
purchase or writing of an option on a security or securities index by
the applicable Portfolio; (b) deposit and maintain in a segregated
account, securities (either physically or by book-entry in a
Securities System), cash or other assets; and (c) pay, release and/or
transfer such securities, cash or other assets in accordance with
notices or other communications evidencing the expiration, termination
or exercise of such options furnished by the Options Clearing
Corporation, the securities or options exchange on which such options
are traded, or such other organization as may be responsible for
handling such option transactions. Each Fund, on behalf of its
applicable Portfolios, and the broker-dealer shall be responsible for
the sufficiency of assets held in any segregated account established
in compliance with applicable margin maintenance requirements and the
performance of other terms of any option contract.
Section 2.10. Futures Contracts. Upon receipt of Proper
Instructions, or pursuant to the provisions of any futures margin
procedural agreement among a Fund, on behalf of any applicable
Portfolio, the Custodian and any futures commission merchant (a
"Procedural Agreement"), the Custodian shall: (a) receive and retain
confirmations, if any, evidencing the purchase or sale of a futures
contract or an option on a futures contract by the applicable
Portfolio; (b) deposit and maintain in a segregated account, cash,
securities and other assets designated as initial, maintenance or
variation "margin" deposits intended to secure the applicable
Portfolio's performance of its obligations under any futures contracts
purchased or sold or any options on futures contracts written by the
Portfolio, in accordance with the provisions of any Procedural
Agreement designed to comply with the rules of the Commodity Futures
Trading Commission and/or any commodity exchange or contract market
(such as the Chicago Board of Trade), or any similar organization(s),
regarding such margin deposits; and (c) release assets from and/or
transfer assets into such margin accounts only in accordance with any
such Procedural Agreements. Each Fund, on behalf of its applicable
Portfolios, and such futures commission merchant shall be responsible
for the sufficiency of assets held in the segregated account in
compliance with applicable margin maintenance requirements and the
performance of any futures contract or option on a futures contract in
accordance with its terms.
Section 2.11. Borrowing. Upon receipt of Proper Instructions, the
Custodian shall deliver securities of a Portfolio to lenders or their
agents, or otherwise establish a segregated account as agreed to by
the applicable Fund on behalf of such Portfolio and the Custodian, as
collateral for borrowings effected by such Portfolio, provided that
such borrowed money is payable by the lender (a) to or upon the
Custodian's order, as Custodian for such Portfolio, and (b)
concurrently with delivery of such securities.
Section 2.12. Interest Bearing Deposits.
Upon receipt of Proper Instructions directing the Custodian to
purchase interest bearing fixed term and call deposits (hereinafter
referred to collectively, as "Interest Bearing Deposits") for the
account of a Portfolio, the Custodian shall purchase such Interest
Bearing Deposits in the name of the Portfolio with such banks or trust
companies (including the Custodian, any Subcustodian or any subsidiary
or affiliate of the Custodian) (hereinafter referred to as "Banking
Institutions") and in such amounts as the applicable Fund may direct
pursuant to Proper Instructions. Such Interest Bearing Deposits may
be denominated in U.S. Dollars or other currencies, as the applicable
Fund on behalf of its Portfolio may determine and direct pursuant to
Proper Instructions. The Custodian shall include in its records with
respect to the assets of each Portfolio appropriate notation as to the
amount and currency of each such Interest Bearing Bank Deposit, the
accepting Banking Institution and all other appropriate details, and
shall retain such forms of advice or receipt evidencing such account,
if any, as may be forwarded to the Custodian by the Banking
Institution. The responsibilities of the Custodian to each Fund for
Interest Bearing Deposits accepted on the Custodian's books in the
United States on behalf of the Fund's Portfolios shall be that of a
U.S. bank for a similar deposit. With respect to Interest Bearing
Deposits other than those accepted on the Custodian's books, (a) the
Custodian shall be responsible for the collection of income as set
forth in Section 2.15 and the transmission of cash and instructions to
and from such accounts; and (b) the Custodian shall have no duty with
respect to the selection of the Banking Institution or, so long as the
Custodian acts in accordance with Proper Instructions, for the failure
of such Banking Institution to pay upon demand. Upon receipt of
Proper Instructions, the Custodian shall take such reasonable actions
as the applicable Fund deems necessary or appropriate to cause each
such Interest Bearing Deposit Account to be insured to the maximum
extent possible by all applicable deposit insurers including, without
limitation, the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
Section 2.13. Foreign Exchange Transactions
(a) Foreign Exchange Transactions Other Than as Principal. Upon
receipt of Proper Instructions, the Custodian shall settle foreign
exchange contracts or options to purchase and sell foreign currencies
for spot and future delivery on behalf of and for the account of a
Portfolio with such currency brokers or Banking Institutions as the
applicable Fund may determine and direct pursuant to Proper
Instructions. The Custodian shall be responsible for the transmission
of cash and instructions to and from the currency broker or Banking
Institution with which the contract or option is made, the safekeeping
of all certificates and other documents and agreements evidencing or
relating to such foreign exchange transactions and the maintenance of
proper records as set forth in Section 2.25. The Custodian shall have
no duty with respect to the selection of the currency brokers or
Banking Institutions with which a Fund deals on behalf of its
Portfolios or, so long as the Custodian acts in accordance with Proper
Instructions, for the failure of such brokers or Banking Institutions
to comply with the terms of any contract or option.
(b) Foreign Exchange Contracts as Principal. The Custodian shall
not be obligated to enter into foreign exchange transactions as
principal. However, if the Custodian has made available to a Fund its
services as a principal in foreign exchange transactions, upon receipt
of Proper Instructions, the Custodian shall enter into foreign
exchange contracts or options to purchase and sell foreign currencies
for spot and future delivery on behalf of and for the account of a
Portfolio of such Fund with the Custodian as principal. The Custodian
shall be responsible for the selection of the currency brokers or
Banking Institutions and the failure of such currency brokers or
Banking Institutions to comply with the terms of any contract or
option.
(c) Payments. Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained
herein, upon receipt of Proper Instructions the Custodian may, in
connection with a foreign exchange contract, make free outgoing
payments of cash in the form of U.S. Dollars or foreign currency prior
to receipt of confirmation of such foreign exchange contract or
confirmation that the countervalue currency completing such contract
has been delivered or received.
Section 2.14. Securities Loans. Upon receipt of Proper
Instructions, the Custodian shall, in connection with loans of
securities by a Portfolio, deliver securities of such Portfolio to the
borrower thereof prior to receipt of the collateral, if any, for such
borrowing; provided that, in cases of loans of securities secured by
cash collateral, the Custodian's instructions to the Securities System
shall require that the Securities System deliver the securities of the
Portfolio to the borrower thereof only upon receipt of the collateral
for such borrowing.
Section 2.15. Collections. The Custodian shall, and shall cause any
Subcustodian to: (a) collect amounts due and payable to each Fund
with respect to portfolio securities and other assets of each of such
Fund's Portfolios; (b) promptly credit to the account of each
applicable Portfolio all income and other payments relating to
portfolio securities and other assets held by the Custodian hereunder
upon Custodian's receipt of such income or payments or as otherwise
agreed in writing by the Custodian and the applicable Fund; (c)
promptly endorse and deliver any instruments required to effect such
collections; (d) promptly execute ownership and other certificates and
affidavits for all federal, state and foreign tax purposes in
connection with receipt of income, capital gains or other payments
with respect to portfolio securities and other assets of each
applicable Portfolio, or in connection with the purchase, sale or
transfer of such securities or other assets; and (e) promptly file any
certificates or other affidavits for the refund or reclaim of foreign
taxes paid, and promptly notify each applicable Fund of any changes to
law, interpretative rulings or procedures regarding such reclaims, and
otherwise use all available measures customarily used to minimize the
imposition of foreign taxes at source, and promptly inform each
applicable Fund of alternative means of minimizing such taxes of which
the Custodian shall become aware (or with the exercise of reasonable
care should have become aware); provided, however, that with respect
to portfolio securities registered in so-called street name, the
Custodian shall use its best efforts to collect amounts due and
payable to each Fund with respect to its Portfolios. The Custodian
shall promptly notify each applicable Fund in writing by facsimile
transmission or in such other manner as each such Fund and the
Custodian may agree in writing if any amount payable with respect to
portfolio securities or other assets of the Portfolios of such Fund(s)
is not received by the Custodian when due. The Custodian shall not be
responsible for the collection of amounts due and payable with respect
to portfolio securities or other assets that are in default.
Section 2.16. Dividends, Distributions and Redemptions. The
Custodian shall promptly release funds or securities: (a) upon
receipt of Proper Instructions, to one or more Distribution Accounts
designated by the applicable Fund or Funds in such Proper
Instructions; or (b) upon receipt of Special Instructions, as
otherwise directed by the applicable Fund or Funds, for the purpose of
the payment of dividends or other distributions to shareholders of
each applicable Portfolio, and payment to shareholders who have
requested repurchase or redemption of their shares of the Portfolio(s)
(collectively, the "Shares"). For purposes of this Agreement, a
"Distribution Account" shall mean an account established at a Banking
Institution designated by the applicable Fund on behalf of one or more
of its Portfolios in Special Instructions.
Section 2.17. Proceeds from Shares Sold. The Custodian shall
receive funds representing cash payments received for Shares issued or
sold from time to time by the Funds, and shall promptly credit such
funds to the account(s) of the applicable Portfolio(s). The Custodian
shall promptly notify each applicable Fund of Custodian's receipt of
cash in payment for Shares issued by such Fund by facsimile
transmission or in such other manner as the Fund and Custodian may
agree in writing. Upon receipt of Proper Instructions, the Custodian
shall: (a) deliver all federal funds received by the Custodian in
payment for Shares in payment for such investments as may be set forth
in such Proper Instructions and at a time agreed upon between the
Custodian and the applicable Fund; and (b) make federal funds
available to the applicable Fund as of specified times agreed upon
from time to time by the applicable Fund and the Custodian, in the
amount of checks received in payment for Shares which are deposited to
the accounts of each applicable Portfolio.
Section 2.18. Proxies, Notices, Etc. The Custodian shall deliver to
each applicable Fund, in the most expeditious manner practicable, all
forms of proxies, all notices of meetings, and any other notices or
announcements affecting or relating to securities owned by one or more
of the applicable Fund's Portfolios that are received by the
Custodian, any Subcustodian, or any nominee of either of them, and,
upon receipt of Proper Instructions, the Custodian shall execute and
deliver, or cause such Subcustodian or nominee to execute and deliver,
such proxies or other authorizations as may be required. Except as
directed pursuant to Proper Instructions, neither the Custodian nor
any Subcustodian or nominee shall vote upon any such securities, or
execute any proxy to vote thereon, or give any consent or take any
other action with respect thereto.
Section 2.19. Bills and Other Disbursements. Upon receipt of Proper
Instructions, the Custodian shall pay or cause to be paid, all bills,
statements, or other obligations of each Portfolio.
Section 2.20. Nondiscretionary Functions. The Custodian shall
attend to all nondiscretionary details in connection with the sale,
exchange, substitution, purchase, transfer or other dealings with
securities or other assets of each Portfolio held by the Custodian,
except as otherwise directed from time to time pursuant to Proper
Instructions.
Section 2.21. Bank Accounts
(a) Accounts with the Custodian and any Subcustodians. The Custodian
shall open and operate a bank account or accounts (hereinafter
referred to collectively, as "Bank Accounts") on the books of the
Custodian or any Subcustodian provided that such account(s) shall be
in the name of the Custodian or a nominee of the Custodian, for the
account of a Portfolio, and shall be subject only to the draft or
order of the Custodian; provided however, that such Bank Accounts in
countries other than the United States may be held in an account of
the Custodian containing only assets held by the Custodian as a
fiduciary or custodian for customers, and provided further, that the
records of the Custodian shall indicate at all times the Portfolio or
other customer for which such securities and other assets are held in
such account and the respective interests therein. Such Bank Accounts
may be denominated in either U.S. Dollars or other currencies. The
responsibilities of the Custodian to each applicable Fund for deposits
accepted on the Custodian's books in the United States shall be that
of a U.S. bank for a similar deposit. The responsibilities of the
Custodian to each applicable Fund for deposits accepted on any
Subcustodian's books shall be governed by the provisions of Section
5.02.
(b) Accounts With Other Banking Institutions. The Custodian may open
and operate Bank Accounts on behalf of a Portfolio, in the name of the
Custodian or a nominee of the Custodian, at a Banking Institution
other than the Custodian or any Subcustodian, provided that such
account(s) shall be in the name of the Custodian or a nominee of the
Custodian, for the account of a Portfolio, and shall be subject only
to the draft or order of the Custodian; provided however, that such
Bank Accounts may be held in an account of the Custodian containing
only assets held by the Custodian as a fiduciary or custodian for
customers, and provided further, that the records of the Custodian
shall indicate at all times the Portfolio or other customer for which
such securities and other assets are held in such account and the
respective interests therein. Such Bank Accounts may be denominated
in either U.S. Dollars or other currencies. Subject to the provisions
of Section 5.01(a), the Custodian shall be responsible for the
selection of the Banking Institution and for the failure of such
Banking Institution to pay according to the terms of the deposit.
(c) Deposit Insurance. Upon receipt of Proper Instructions, the
Custodian shall take such reasonable actions as the applicable Fund
deems necessary or appropriate to cause each deposit account
established by the Custodian pursuant to this Section 2.21 to be
insured to the maximum extent possible by all applicable deposit
insurers including, without limitation, the Federal Deposit Insurance
Corporation.
Section 2.22. Deposit of Fund Assets in Securities Systems. The
Custodian may deposit and/or maintain domestic securities owned by a
Portfolio in: (a) The Depository Trust Company; (b) the Participants
Trust Company; (c) any book-entry system as provided in (i) Subpart O
of Treasury Circular No. 300, 31 CFR 306.115, (ii) Subpart B of
Treasury Circular Public Debt Series No. 27-76, 31 CFR 350.2, or (iii)
the book-entry regulations of federal agencies substantially in the
form of 31 CFR 306.115; or (d) any other domestic clearing agency
registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") under
Section 17A of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (or as may
otherwise be authorized by the Securities and Exchange Commission to
serve in the capacity of depository or clearing agent for the
securities or other assets of investment companies) which acts as a
securities depository and the use of which each applicable Fund has
previously approved by Special Instructions (as hereinafter defined)
(each of the foregoing being referred to in this Agreement as a
"Securities System"). Use of a Securities System shall be in
accordance with applicable Federal Reserve Board and SEC rules and
regulations, if any, and subject to the following provisions:
(A) The Custodian may deposit and/or maintain securities held
hereunder in a Securities System, provided that such securities are
represented in an account ("Account") of the Custodian in the
Securities System which Account shall not contain any assets of the
Custodian other than assets held as a fiduciary, custodian, or
otherwise for customers and shall be so designated on the books and
records of the Securities System.
(B) The Securities System shall be obligated to comply with the
Custodian's directions with respect to the securities held in such
Account and shall not be entitled to a lien against the assets in such
Account for extensions of credit to the Custodian other than for
payment of the purchase price of such assets.
(C) Each Fund hereby designates the Custodian as the party in whose
name any securities deposited by the Custodian in the Account are to
be registered.
(D) The books and records of the Custodian shall at all times
identify those securities belonging to each Portfolio which are
maintained in a Securities System.
(E) The Custodian shall pay for securities purchased for the account
of a Portfolio only upon (w) receipt of advice from the Securities
System that such securities have been transferred to the Account of
the Custodian, and (x) the making of an entry on the records of the
Custodian to reflect such payment and transfer for the account of such
Portfolio. The Custodian shall transfer securities sold for the
account of a Portfolio only upon (y) receipt of advice from the
Securities System that payment for such securities has been
transferred to the Account of the Custodian, and (z) the making of an
entry on the records of the Custodian to reflect such transfer and
payment for the account of such Portfolio. Copies of all advices from
the Securities System relating to transfers of securities for the
account of a Portfolio shall identify such Portfolio and shall be
maintained for such Portfolio by the Custodian. The Custodian shall
deliver to each applicable Fund on the next succeeding business day
daily transaction reports which shall include each day's transactions
in the Securities System for the account of each applicable Portfolio.
Such transaction reports shall be delivered to each applicable Fund or
any agent designated by such Fund pursuant to Proper Instructions, by
computer or in such other manner as such Fund and the Custodian may
agree in writing.
(F) The Custodian shall, if requested by a Fund pursuant to Proper
Instructions, provide such Fund with all reports obtained by the
Custodian or any Subcustodian with respect to a Securities System's
accounting system, internal accounting control and procedures for
safeguarding securities deposited in the Securities System.
(G) Upon receipt of Special Instructions, the Custodian shall
terminate the use of any Securities System (except the federal
book-entry system) on behalf of any Portfolio as promptly as
practicable and shall take all actions reasonably practicable to
safeguard the securities of any Portfolio maintained with such
Securities System.
Section 2.23. Other Transfers.
(a) Upon receipt of Proper Instructions, the Custodian shall transfer
to or receive from a third party that has been appointed to serve as
an additional custodian of one or more Portfolios (an "Additional
Custodian") securities, cash and other assets of such Portfolio(s) in
accordance with such Proper Instructions. Each Additional Custodian
shall be identified as such on Appendix B, as the same may be amended
from time to time in accordance with the provisions of Section
9.06(c).
(b) Upon receipt of Special Instructions, the Custodian shall make
such other dispositions of securities, funds or other property of a
Portfolio in a manner or for purposes other than as expressly set
forth in this Agreement, provided that the Special Instructions
relating to such disposition shall include a statement of the purpose
for which the delivery is to be made, the amount of funds and/or
securities to be delivered, and the name of the person or persons to
whom delivery is to be made, and shall otherwise comply with the
provisions of Sections 3.01 and 3.03 hereof.
Section 2.24. Establishment of Segregated Account. Upon receipt of
Proper Instructions, the Custodian shall establish and maintain on its
books a segregated account or accounts for and on behalf of a
Portfolio, into which account or accounts may be transferred cash
and/or securities or other assets of such Portfolio, including
securities maintained by the Custodian in a Securities System pursuant
to Section 2.22 hereof, said account or accounts to be maintained:
(a) for the purposes set forth in Sections 2.09, 2.10 and 2.11 hereof;
(b) for the purposes of compliance by the Portfolio with the
procedures required by Investment Company Act Release No. 10666, or
any subsequent release or releases of the SEC relating to the
maintenance of segregated accounts by registered investment companies;
or (c) for such other purposes as set forth, from time to time, in
Special Instructions.
Section 2.25. Custodian's Books and Records. The Custodian shall
provide any assistance reasonably requested by a Fund in the
preparation of reports to such Fund's shareholders and others, audits
of accounts, and other ministerial matters of like nature. The
Custodian shall maintain complete and accurate records with respect to
securities and other assets held for the accounts of each Portfolio as
required by the rules and regulations of the SEC applicable to
investment companies registered under the 1940 Act, including: (a)
journals or other records of original entry containing a detailed and
itemized daily record of all receipts and deliveries of securities
(including certificate and transaction identification numbers, if
any), and all receipts and disbursements of cash; (b) ledgers or other
records reflecting (i) securities in transfer, (ii) securities in
physical possession, (iii) securities borrowed, loaned or
collateralizing obligations of each Portfolio, (iv) monies borrowed
and monies loaned (together with a record of the collateral therefor
and substitutions of such collateral), (v) dividends and interest
received, (vi) the amount of tax withheld by any person in respect of
any collection made by the Custodian or any Subcustodian, and (vii)
the amount of reclaims or refunds for foreign taxes paid; and (c)
cancelled checks and bank records related thereto. The Custodian
shall keep such other books and records of each Fund as such Fund
shall reasonably request. All such books and records maintained by
the Custodian shall be maintained in a form acceptable to the
applicable Fund and in compliance with the rules and regulations of
the SEC, including, but not limited to, books and records required to
be maintained by Section 31(a) of the 1940 Act and the rules and
regulations from time to time adopted thereunder. All books and
records maintained by the Custodian pursuant to this Agreement shall
at all times be the property of each applicable Fund and shall be
available during normal business hours for inspection and use by such
Fund and its agents, including, without limitation, its independent
certified public accountants. Notwithstanding the preceding sentence,
no Fund shall take any actions or cause the Custodian to take any
actions which would cause, either directly or indirectly, the
Custodian to violate any applicable laws, regulations or orders.
Section 2.26. Opinion of Fund's Independent Certified Public
Accountants. The Custodian shall take all reasonable action as a Fund
may request to obtain from year to year favorable opinions from such
Fund's independent certified public accountants with respect to the
Custodian's activities hereunder in connection with the preparation of
the Fund's Form N-1A and the Fund's Form N-SAR or other periodic
reports to the SEC and with respect to any other requirements of the
SEC.
Section 2.27. Reports by Independent Certified Public Accountants.
At the request of a Fund, the Custodian shall deliver to such Fund a
written report prepared by the Custodian's independent certified
public accountants with respect to the services provided by the
Custodian under this Agreement, including, without limitation, the
Custodian's accounting system, internal accounting control and
procedures for safeguarding cash, securities and other assets,
including cash, securities and other assets deposited and/or
maintained in a Securities System or with a Subcustodian. Such report
shall be of sufficient scope and in sufficient detail as may
reasonably be required by any Fund and as may reasonably be obtained
by the Custodian.
Section 2.28. Overdraft Facility. In the event that the Custodian
is directed by Proper Instructions to make any payment or transfer of
funds on behalf of a Portfolio for which there would be, at the close
of business on the date of such payment or transfer, insufficient
funds held by the Custodian on behalf of such Portfolio, the Custodian
may, in its discretion, provide an overdraft (an "Overdraft") to the
applicable Fund on behalf of such Portfolio, in an amount sufficient
to allow the completion of such payment. Any Overdraft provided
hereunder: (a) shall be payable on the next Business Day, unless
otherwise agreed by the applicable Fund and the Custodian; and (b)
shall accrue interest from the date of the Overdraft to the date of
payment in full by the applicable Fund on behalf of the applicable
Portfolio at a rate agreed upon in writing, from time to time, by the
Custodian and the applicable Fund. The Custodian and each Fund
acknowledge that the purpose of such Overdrafts is to temporarily
finance the purchase or sale of securities for prompt delivery in
accordance with the terms hereof, or to meet emergency expenses not
reasonably foreseeable by such Fund. The Custodian shall promptly
notify each applicable Fund in writing (an "Overdraft Notice") of any
Overdraft by facsimile transmission or in such other manner as such
Fund and the Custodian may agree in writing. At the request of the
Custodian, each applicable Fund, on behalf of one or more of its
Portfolios, shall pledge, assign and grant to the Custodian a security
interest in certain specified securities of the applicable Portfolio,
as security for Overdrafts provided to such Portfolio, under the terms
and conditions set forth in Appendix "C" attached hereto.
ARTICLE III
PROPER INSTRUCTIONS, SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS
AND RELATED MATTERS
Section 3.01. Proper Instructions and Special Instructions.
(a) Proper Instructions. As used herein, the term "Proper
Instructions" shall mean: (i) a tested telex, a written (including,
without limitation, facsimile transmission) request, direction,
instruction or certification signed or initialed by or on behalf of
the applicable Fund by one or more Authorized Persons (as hereinafter
defined); (ii) a telephonic or other oral communication by one or more
Authorized Persons; or (iii) a communication effected directly between
an electro-mechanical or electronic device or system (including,
without limitation, computers) by or on behalf of the applicable Fund
by one or more Authorized Persons; provided, however, that
communications of the types described in clauses (ii) and (iii) above
purporting to be given by an Authorized Person shall be considered
Proper Instructions only if the Custodian reasonably believes such
communications to have been given by an Authorized Person with respect
to the transaction involved. Proper Instructions in the form of oral
communications shall be confirmed by the applicable Fund by tested
telex or in writing in the manner set forth in clause (i) above, but
the lack of such confirmation shall in no way affect any action taken
by the Custodian in reliance upon such oral instructions prior to the
Custodian's receipt of such confirmation. Each Fund and the Custodian
are hereby authorized to record any and all telephonic or other oral
instructions communicated to the Custodian. Proper Instructions may
relate to specific transactions or to types or classes of
transactions, and may be in the form of standing instructions.
(b) Special Instructions. As used herein, the term "Special
Instructions" shall mean Proper Instructions countersigned or
confirmed in writing by the Treasurer or any Assistant Treasurer of
the applicable Fund or any other person designated by the Treasurer of
such Fund in writing, which countersignature or confirmation shall be
(i) included on the same instrument containing the Proper Instructions
or on a separate instrument relating thereto, and (ii) delivered by
hand, by facsimile transmission, or in such other manner as the
applicable Fund and the Custodian agree in writing.
(c) Address for Proper Instructions and Special Instructions. Proper
Instructions and Special Instructions shall be delivered to the
Custodian at the address and/or telephone, telecopy or telex number
agreed upon from time to time by the Custodian and the applicable
Fund.
Section 3.02. Authorized Persons. Concurrently with the execution
of this Agreement and from time to time thereafter, as appropriate,
each Fund shall deliver to the Custodian, duly certified as
appropriate by a Treasurer or Assistant Treasurer of such Fund, a
certificate setting forth: (a) the names, titles, signatures and
scope of authority of all persons authorized to give Proper
Instructions or any other notice, request, direction, instruction,
certificate or instrument on behalf of such Fund (collectively, the
"Authorized Persons" and individually, an "Authorized Person"); and
(b) the names, titles and signatures of those persons authorized to
issue Special Instructions. Such certificate may be accepted and
relied upon by the Custodian as conclusive evidence of the facts set
forth therein and shall be considered to be in full force and effect
until delivery to the Custodian of a similar certificate to the
contrary. Upon delivery of a certificate which deletes the name(s) of
a person previously authorized by a Fund to give Proper Instructions
or to issue Special Instructions, such persons shall no longer be
considered an Authorized Person or authorized to issue Special
Instructions for that Fund.
Section 3.03. Persons Having Access to Assets of the Portfolios.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary contained in this Agreement,
no Authorized Person, Trustee, officer, employee or agent of any Fund
shall have physical access to the assets of any Portfolio of that Fund
held by the Custodian nor shall the Custodian deliver any assets of a
Portfolio for delivery to an account of such person; provided,
however, that nothing in this Section 3.03 shall prohibit (a) any
Authorized Person from giving Proper Instructions, or any person
authorized to issue Special Instructions from issuing Special
Instructions, so long as such action does not result in delivery of or
access to assets of any Portfolio prohibited by this Section 3.03; or
(b) each Fund's independent certified public accountants from
examining or reviewing the assets of the Portfolios of the Fund held
by the Custodian. Each Fund shall deliver to the Custodian a written
certificate identifying such Authorized Persons, Trustees, officers,
employees and agents of such Fund.
Section 3.04. Actions of Custodian Based on Proper Instructions and
Special Instructions. So long as and to the extent that the Custodian
acts in accordance with (a) Proper Instructions or Special
Instructions, as the case may be, and (b) the terms of this Agreement,
the Custodian shall not be responsible for the title, validity or
genuineness of any property, or evidence of title thereof, received by
it or delivered by it pursuant to this Agreement.
ARTICLE IV
SUBCUSTODIANS
The Custodian may, from time to time, in accordance with the relevant
provisions of this Article IV, appoint one or more Domestic
Subcustodians, Foreign Subcustodians, Interim Subcustodians and
Special Subcustodians to act on behalf of a Portfolio. (For purposes
of this Agreement, all duly appointed Domestic Subcustodians, Foreign
Subcustodians, Interim Subcustodians, and Special Subcustodians are
hereinafter referred to collectively, as "Subcustodians.")
Section 4.01. Domestic Subcustodians. The Custodian may, at any
time and from time to time, appoint any bank as defined in Section
2(a)(5) of the 1940 Act meeting the requirements of a custodian under
Section 17(f) of the 1940 Act and the rules and regulations
thereunder, to act on behalf of one or more Portfolios as a
subcustodian for purposes of holding cash, securities and other assets
of such Portfolios and performing other functions of the Custodian
within the United States (a "Domestic Subcustodian"); provided, that,
the Custodian shall notify each applicable Fund in writing of the
identity and qualifications of any proposed Domestic Subcustodian at
least thirty (30) days prior to appointment of such Domestic
Subcustodian, and such Fund may, in its sole discretion, by written
notice to the Custodian executed by an Authorized Person disapprove of
the appointment of such Domestic Subcustodian. If, following notice
by the Custodian to each applicable Fund regarding appointment of a
Domestic Subcustodian and the expiration of thirty (30) days after the
date of such notice, such Fund shall have failed to notify the
Custodian of its disapproval thereof, the Custodian may, in its
discretion, appoint such proposed Domestic Subcustodian as its
subcustodian.
Section 4.02. Foreign Subcustodians and Interim Subcustodians.
(a) Foreign Subcustodians. The Custodian may, at any time and from
time to time, appoint: (i) any bank, trust company or other entity
meeting the requirements of an "eligible foreign custodian" under
Section 17(f) of the 1940 Act and the rules and regulations thereunder
or by order of the Securities and Exchange Commission exempted
therefrom, or (ii) any bank as defined in Section 2(a)(5) of the 1940
Act meeting the requirements of a custodian under Section 17(f) of the
1940 Act and the rules and regulations thereunder to act on behalf of
one or more Portfolios as a subcustodian for purposes of holding cash,
securities and other assets of such Portfolios and performing other
functions of the Custodian in countries other than the United States
of America (a "Foreign Subcustodian"); provided, that, prior to the
appointment of any Foreign Subcustodian, the Custodian shall have
obtained written confirmation of the approval of the Board of Trustees
or other governing body or entity of each applicable Fund on behalf of
its applicable Portfolio(s) (which approval may be withheld in the
sole discretion of such Board of Trustees or other governing body or
entity) with respect to (i) the identity and qualifications of any
proposed Foreign Subcustodian, (ii) the country or countries in which,
and the securities depositories or clearing agencies, if any, through
which, any proposed Foreign Subcustodian is authorized to hold
securities and other assets of the applicable Portfolio(s), and (iii)
the form and terms of the subcustodian agreement to be entered into
between such proposed Foreign Subcustodian and the Custodian. Each
such duly approved Foreign Subcustodian and the countries where and
the securities depositories and clearing agencies through which they
may hold securities and other assets of the applicable Portfolios
shall be listed on Appendix "B" attached hereto, as it may be amended,
from time to time, in accordance with the provisions of Section
9.05(c) hereof. Each Fund shall be responsible for informing the
Custodian sufficiently in advance of a proposed investment by one of
its Portfolios which is to be held in a country in which no Foreign
Subcustodian is authorized to act, in order that there shall be
sufficient time for the Custodian to effect the appropriate
arrangements with a proposed foreign subcustodian, including obtaining
approval as provided in this Section 4.02(a). The Custodian shall not
amend any subcustodian agreement entered into with a Foreign
Subcustodian, or agree to change or permit any changes thereunder, or
waive any rights under such agreement, which materially affect a
Fund's rights or the Foreign Subcustodian's obligations or duties to
a Fund under such agreement, except upon prior approval pursuant to
Special Instructions.
(b) Interim Subcustodians. Notwithstanding the foregoing, in the
event that a Portfolio shall invest in a security or other asset to be
held in a country in which no Foreign Subcustodian is authorized to
act, the Custodian shall promptly notify the applicable Fund in
writing by facsimile transmission or in such other manner as such Fund
and Custodian shall agree in writing of the unavailability of an
approved Foreign Subcustodian in such country; and the Custodian
shall, upon receipt of Special Instructions, appoint any Person
designated by the applicable Fund in such Special Instructions to hold
such security or other asset. (Any Person appointed as a subcustodian
pursuant to this Section 4.02(b) is hereinafter referred to as an
"Interim Subcustodian.")
Section 4.03. Special Subcustodians. Upon receipt of Special
Instructions, the Custodian shall, on behalf of one or more
Portfolios, appoint one or more banks, trust companies or other
entities designated in such Special Instructions to act as a
subcustodian for purposes of: (i) effecting third-party repurchase
transactions with banks, brokers, dealers or other entities through
the use of a common custodian or subcustodian; (ii) establishing a
joint trading account for the applicable Portfolio(s) and other
registered open-end management investment companies for which Fidelity
Management & Research Company serves as investment adviser, through
which such Portfolios and such other investment companies shall
collectively participate in certain repurchase transactions; (iii)
providing depository and clearing agency services with respect to
certain variable rate demand note securities; and (iv) effecting any
other transactions designated by each applicable Fund in Special
Instructions. (Each such designated subcustodian is hereinafter
referred to as a "Special Subcustodian.") Each such duly appointed
Special Subcustodian shall be listed on Appendix "B" attached hereto,
as it may be amended from time to time in accordance with the
provisions of Section 9.05(c) hereof. In connection with the
appointment of any Special Subcustodian, the Custodian shall enter
into a subcustodian agreement with the Special Subcustodian in form
and substance approved by each applicable Fund, provided that such
agreement shall in all events comply with the provisions of the 1940
Act and the rules and regulations thereunder and the terms and
provisions of this Agreement. The Custodian shall not amend any
subcustodian agreement entered into with a Special Subcustodian, or
agree to change or permit any changes thereunder, or waive any rights
under such agreement, except upon prior approval pursuant to Special
Instructions.
Section 4.04. Termination of a Subcustodian. The Custodian shall
(i) cause each Domestic Subcustodian and Foreign Subcustodian to, and
(ii) use its best efforts to cause each Interim Subcustodian and
Special Subcustodian to, perform all of its obligations in accordance
with the terms and conditions of the subcustodian agreement between
the Custodian and such Subcustodian. In the event that the Custodian
is unable to cause such Subcustodian to fully perform its obligations
thereunder, the Custodian shall forthwith, upon the receipt of Special
Instructions, terminate such Subcustodian with respect to each
applicable Fund and, if necessary or desirable, appoint a replacement
Subcustodian in accordance with the provisions of Section 4.01 or
Section 4.02, as the case may be. In addition to the foregoing, the
Custodian (A) may, at any time in its discretion, upon written
notification to each applicable Fund, terminate any Domestic
Subcustodian, Foreign Subcustodian or Interim Subcustodian, and (B)
shall, upon receipt of Special Instructions, terminate any
Subcustodian with respect to each applicable Fund, in accordance with
the termination provisions under the applicable subcustodian
agreement.
Section 4.05. Certification Regarding Foreign Subcustodians. Upon
request of a Fund, the Custodian shall deliver to such Fund a
certificate stating: (i) the identity of each Foreign Subcustodian
then acting on behalf of the Custodian for such Fund and its
Portfolios; (ii) the countries in which and the securities
depositories and clearing agents through which each such Foreign
Subcustodian is then holding cash, securities and other assets of any
Portfolio of such Fund; and (iii) such other information as may be
requested by such Fund to ensure compliance with Rule 17(f)-5 under
the 1940 Act.
ARTICLE V
STANDARD OF CARE; INDEMNIFICATION
Section 5.01. Standard of Care.
(a) General Standard of Care. The Custodian shall exercise
reasonable care and diligence in carrying out all of its duties and
obligations under this Agreement, and shall be liable to each Fund for
all loss, damage and expense suffered or incurred by such Fund or its
Portfolios resulting from the failure of the Custodian to exercise
such reasonable care and diligence.
(b) Actions Prohibited by Applicable Law, Etc. In no event shall the
Custodian incur liability hereunder if the Custodian or any
Subcustodian or Securities System, or any subcustodian, securities
depository or securities system utilized by any such Subcustodian, or
any nominee of the Custodian or any Subcustodian (individually, a
"Person") is prevented, forbidden or delayed from performing, or omits
to perform, any act or thing which this Agreement provides shall be
performed or omitted to be performed, by reason of: (i) any provision
of any present or future law or regulation or order of the United
States of America, or any state thereof, or of any foreign country, or
political subdivision thereof or of any court of competent
jurisdiction; or (ii) any act of God or war or other similar
circumstance beyond the control of the Custodian, unless, in each
case, such delay or nonperformance is caused by (A) the negligence,
misfeasance or misconduct of the applicable Person, or (B) a
malfunction or failure of equipment operated or utilized by the
applicable Person other than a malfunction or failure beyond such
Person's control and which could not reasonably be anticipated and/or
prevented by such Person.
(c) Mitigation by Custodian. Upon the occurrence of any event which
causes or may cause any loss, damage or expense to any Fund or
Portfolio, (i) the Custodian shall, (ii) the Custodian shall cause any
applicable Domestic Subcustodian or Foreign Subcustodian to, and (iii)
the Custodian shall use its best efforts to cause any applicable
Interim Subcustodian or Special Subcustodian to, use all commercially
reasonable efforts and take all reasonable steps under the
circumstances to mitigate the effects of such event and to avoid
continuing harm to the Funds and the Portfolios.
(d) Advice of Counsel. The Custodian shall be entitled to receive
and act upon advice of counsel on all matters. The Custodian shall be
without liability for any action reasonably taken or omitted in good
faith pursuant to the advice of (i) counsel for the applicable Fund or
Funds, or (ii) at the expense of the Custodian, such other counsel as
the applicable Fund(s) and the Custodian may agree upon; provided,
however, with respect to the performance of any action or omission of
any action upon such advice, the Custodian shall be required to
conform to the standard of care set forth in Section 5.01(a).
(e) Expenses of the Funds. In addition to the liability of the
Custodian under this Article V, the Custodian shall be liable to each
applicable Fund for all reasonable costs and expenses incurred by such
Fund in connection with any claim by such Fund against the Custodian
arising from the obligations of the Custodian hereunder, including,
without limitation, all reasonable attorneys' fees and expenses
incurred by such Fund in asserting any such claim, and all expenses
incurred by such Fund in connection with any investigations, lawsuits
or proceedings relating to such claim; provided, that such Fund has
recovered from the Custodian for such claim.
(f) Liability for Past Records. The Custodian shall have no
liability in respect of any loss, damage or expense suffered by a
Fund, insofar as such loss, damage or expense arises from the
performance of the Custodian's duties hereunder by reason of the
Custodian's reliance upon records that were maintained for such Fund
by entities other than the Custodian prior to the Custodian's
appointment as custodian for such Fund.
Section 5.02. Liability of Custodian for Actions of Other Persons.
(a) Domestic Subcustodians and Foreign Subcustodians. The Custodian
shall be liable for the actions or omissions of any Domestic
Subcustodian or any Foreign Subcustodian to the same extent as if such
action or omission were performed by the Custodian itself. In the
event of any loss, damage or expense suffered or incurred by a Fund
caused by or resulting from the actions or omissions of any Domestic
Subcustodian or Foreign Subcustodian for which the Custodian would
otherwise be liable, the Custodian shall promptly reimburse such Fund
in the amount of any such loss, damage or expense.
(b) Interim Subcustodians. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section
5.01 to the contrary, the Custodian shall not be liable to a Fund for
any loss, damage or expense suffered or incurred by such Fund or any
of its Portfolios resulting from the actions or omissions of an
Interim Subcustodian unless such loss, damage or expense is caused by,
or results from, the negligence, misfeasance or misconduct of the
Custodian; provided, however, in the event of any such loss, damage or
expense, the Custodian shall take all reasonable steps to enforce such
rights as it may have against such Interim Subcustodian to protect the
interests of the Funds and the Portfolios.
(c) Special Subcustodians and Additional Custodians. Notwithstanding
the provisions of Section 5.01 to the contrary and except as otherwise
provided in any subcustodian agreement to which the Custodian, a Fund
and any Special Subcustodian or Additional Custodian are parties, the
Custodian shall not be liable to a Fund for any loss, damage or
expense suffered or incurred by such Fund or any of its Portfolios
resulting from the actions or omissions of a Special Subcustodian or
Additional Subcustodian, unless such loss, damage or expense is caused
by, or results from, the negligence, misfeasance or misconduct of the
Custodian; provided, however, that in the event of any such loss,
damage or expense, the Custodian shall take all reasonable steps to
enforce such rights as it may have against any Special Subcustodian or
Additional Custodian to protect the interests of the Funds and the
Portfolios.
(d) Securities Systems. Notwithstanding the provisions of Section
5.01 to the contrary, the Custodian shall not be liable to a Fund for
any loss, damage or expense suffered or incurred by such Fund or any
of its Portfolios resulting from the use by the Custodian of a
Securities System, unless such loss, damage or expense is caused by,
or results from, the negligence, misfeasance or misconduct of the
Custodian; provided, however, that in the event of any such loss,
damage or expense, the Custodian shall take all reasonable steps to
enforce such rights as it may have against the Securities System to
protect the interests of the Funds and the Portfolios.
(e) Reimbursement of Expenses. Each Fund agrees to reimburse the
Custodian for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses incurred by the
Custodian on behalf of such Fund in connection with the fulfillment of
its obligations under this Section 5.02; provided, however, that such
reimbursement shall not apply to expenses occasioned by or resulting
from the negligence, misfeasance or misconduct of the Custodian.
Section 5.03. Indemnification.
(a) Indemnification Obligations. Subject to the limitations set
forth in this Agreement, each Fund severally and not jointly agrees to
indemnify and hold harmless the Custodian and its nominees from all
loss, damage and expense (including reasonable attorneys' fees)
suffered or incurred by the Custodian or its nominee caused by or
arising from actions taken by the Custodian on behalf of such Fund in
the performance of its duties and obligations under this Agreement;
provided, however, that such indemnity shall not apply to loss, damage
and expense occasioned by or resulting from the negligence,
misfeasance or misconduct of the Custodian or its nominee. In
addition, each Fund agrees severally and not jointly to indemnify any
Person against any liability incurred by reason of taxes assessed to
such Person, or other loss, damage or expenses incurred by such
Person, resulting from the fact that securities and other property of
such Fund's Portfolios are registered in the name of such Person;
provided, however, that in no event shall such indemnification be
applicable to income, franchise or similar taxes which may be imposed
or assessed against any Person.
(b) Notice of Litigation, Right to Prosecute, Etc. No Fund shall be
liable for indemnification under this Section 5.03 unless a Person
shall have promptly notified such Fund in writing of the commencement
of any litigation or proceeding brought against such Person in respect
of which indemnity may be sought under this Section 5.03. With
respect to claims in such litigation or proceedings for which
indemnity by a Fund may be sought and subject to applicable law and
the ruling of any court of competent jurisdiction, such Fund shall be
entitled to participate in any such litigation or proceeding and,
after written notice from such Fund to any Person, such Fund may
assume the defense of such litigation or proceeding with counsel of
its choice at its own expense in respect of that portion of the
litigation for which such Fund may be subject to an indemnification
obligation; provided, however, a Person shall be entitled to
participate in (but not control) at its own cost and expense, the
defense of any such litigation or proceeding if such Fund has not
acknowledged in writing its obligation to indemnify the Person with
respect to such litigation or proceeding. If such Fund is not
permitted to participate or control such litigation or proceeding
under applicable law or by a ruling of a court of competent
jurisdiction, such Person shall reasonably prosecute such litigation
or proceeding. A Person shall not consent to the entry of any
judgment or enter into any settlement in any such litigation or
proceeding without providing each applicable Fund with adequate notice
of any such settlement or judgment, and without each such Fund's prior
written consent. All Persons shall submit written evidence to each
applicable Fund with respect to any cost or expense for which they are
seeking indemnification in such form and detail as such Fund may
reasonably request.
Section 5.04. Investment Limitations. If the Custodian has
otherwise complied with the terms and conditions of this Agreement in
performing its duties generally, and more particularly in connection
with the purchase, sale or exchange of securities made by or for a
Portfolio, the Custodian shall not be liable to the applicable Fund
and such Fund agrees to indemnify the Custodian and its nominees, for
any loss, damage or expense suffered or incurred by the Custodian and
its nominees arising out of any violation of any investment or other
limitation to which such Fund is subject.
Section 5.05. Fund's Right to Proceed. Notwithstanding anything to
the contrary contained herein, each Fund shall have, at its election
upon reasonable notice to the Custodian, the right to enforce, to the
extent permitted by any applicable agreement and applicable law, the
Custodian's rights against any Subcustodian, Securities System, or
other Person for loss, damage or expense caused such Fund by such
Subcustodian, Securities System, or other Person, and shall be
entitled to enforce the rights of the Custodian with respect to any
claim against such Subcustodian, Securities System or other Person,
which the Custodian may have as a consequence of any such loss, damage
or expense, if and to the extent that such Fund has not been made
whole for any such loss or damage. If the Custodian makes such Fund
whole for any such loss or damage, the Custodian shall retain the
ability to enforce its rights directly against such Subcustodian,
Securities System or other Person. Upon such Fund's election to
enforce any rights of the Custodian under this Section 5.05, such Fund
shall reasonably prosecute all actions and proceedings directly
relating to the rights of the Custodian in respect of the loss, damage
or expense incurred by such Fund; provided that, so long as such Fund
has acknowledged in writing its obligation to indemnify the Custodian
under Section 5.03 hereof with respect to such claim, such Fund shall
retain the right to settle, compromise and/or terminate any action or
proceeding in respect of the loss, damage or expense incurred by such
Fund without the Custodian's consent and provided further, that if
such Fund has not made an acknowledgement of its obligation to
indemnify, such Fund shall not settle, compromise or terminate any
such action or proceeding without the written consent of the
Custodian, which consent shall not be unreasonably withheld or
delayed. The Custodian agrees to cooperate with each Fund and take
all actions reasonably requested by such Fund in connection with such
Fund's enforcement of any rights of the Custodian. Each Fund agrees
to reimburse the Custodian for all reasonable out-of-pocket expenses
incurred by the Custodian on behalf of such Fund in connection with
the fulfillment of its obligations under this Section 5.05; provided,
however, that such reimbursement shall not apply to expenses
occasioned by or resulting from the negligence, misfeasance or
misconduct of the Custodian.
ARTICLE VI
COMPENSATION
On behalf of each of its Portfolios, each Fund shall compensate the
Custodian in an amount, and at such times, as may be agreed upon in
writing, from time to time, by the Custodian and such Fund.
ARTICLE VII
TERMINATION
Section 7.01. Termination of Agreement as to One or More Funds.
With respect to each Fund, this Agreement shall continue in full force
and effect until the first to occur of: (a) termination by the
Custodian by an instrument in writing delivered or mailed to such
Fund, such termination to take effect not sooner than ninety (90) days
after the date of such delivery; (b) termination by such Fund by an
instrument in writing delivered or mailed to the Custodian, such
termination to take effect not sooner than thirty (30) days after the
date of such delivery; or (c) termination by such Fund by written
notice delivered to the Custodian, based upon such Fund's
determination that there is a reasonable basis to conclude that the
Custodian is insolvent or that the financial condition of the
Custodian is deteriorating in any material respect, in which case
termination shall take effect upon the Custodian's receipt of such
notice or at such later time as such Fund shall designate. In the
event of termination pursuant to this Section 7.01 by any Fund (a
"Terminating Fund"), each Terminating Fund shall make payment of all
accrued fees and unreimbursed expenses with respect to such
Terminating Fund within a reasonable time following termination and
delivery of a statement to the Terminating Fund setting forth such
fees and expenses. Each Terminating Fund shall identify in any notice
of termination a successor custodian or custodians to which the cash,
securities and other assets of its Portfolios shall, upon termination
of this Agreement with respect to such Terminating Fund, be delivered.
In the event that no written notice designating a successor custodian
shall have been delivered to the Custodian on or before the date when
termination of this Agreement as to a Terminating Fund shall become
effective, the Custodian may deliver to a bank or trust company doing
business in Boston, Massachusetts, of its own selection, having an
aggregate capital, surplus, and undivided profits, as shown by its
last published report, of not less than $25,000,000, all securities
and other assets of such Terminating Fund's Portfolios held by the
Custodian and all instruments held by the Custodian relative thereto
and all other property of the Terminating Fund's Portfolios held by
the Custodian under this Agreement. Thereafter, such bank or trust
company shall be the successor of the Custodian with respect to such
Terminating Fund under this Agreement. In the event that securities
and other assets of such Terminating Fund's Portfolios remain in the
possession of the Custodian after the date of termination hereof with
respect to such Terminating Fund owing to failure of the Terminating
Fund to appoint a successor custodian, the Custodian shall be entitled
to compensation for its services in accordance with the fee schedule
most recently in effect, for such period as the Custodian retains
possession of such securities and other assets, and the provisions of
this Agreement relating to the duties and obligations of the Custodian
and the Terminating Fund shall remain in full force and effect. In
the event of the appointment of a successor custodian, it is agreed
that the cash, securities and other property owned by a Terminating
Fund and held by the Custodian, any Subcustodian or nominee shall be
delivered to the successor custodian; and the Custodian agrees to
cooperate with such Terminating Fund in the execution of documents and
performance of other actions necessary or desirable in order to
substitute the successor custodian for the Custodian under this
Agreement.
Section 7.02. Termination as to One or More Portfolios. This
Agreement may be terminated as to one or more of a Fund's Portfolios
(but less than all of its Portfolios) by delivery of an amended
Appendix "A" deleting such Portfolios pursuant to Section 9.05(b)
hereof, in which case termination as to such deleted Portfolios shall
take effect thirty (30) days after the date of such delivery. The
execution and delivery of an amended Appendix "A" which deletes one or
more Portfolios shall constitute a termination of this Agreement only
with respect to such deleted Portfolio(s), shall be governed by the
preceding provisions of Section 7.01 as to the identification of a
successor custodian and the delivery of cash, securities and other
assets of the Portfolio(s) so deleted, and shall not affect the
obligations of the Custodian and any Fund hereunder with respect to
the other Portfolios set forth in Appendix "A," as amended from time
to time.
ARTICLE VIII
DEFINED TERMS
The following terms are defined in the following sections:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
Term Section
Account 2.22
ADRs 2.06
Additional Custodian 2.23(a)
Authorized Person(s) 3.02
Banking Institution 2.12(a)
Business Day Appendix "C"
Bank Accounts 2.21
Distribution Account 2.16
Domestic Subcustodian 4.01
Foreign Subcustodian 4.02(a)
Fund Preamble
Institutional Client 2.03
Interim Subcustodian 4.02(b)
Overdraft 2.28
Overdraft Notice 2.28
Person 5.01(b)
Portfolio Preamble
Procedural Agreement 2.10
Proper Instructions 3.01(a)
SEC 2.22
Securities System 2.22
Shares 2.16
Special Instructions 3.01(b)
Special Subcustodian 4.03
Subcustodian Article IV
Terminating Fund 7.01
1940 Act Preamble
</TABLE>
ARTICLE IX
MISCELLANEOUS
Section 9.01. Execution of Documents, Etc.
(a) Actions by each Fund. Upon request, each Fund shall execute and
deliver to the Custodian such proxies, powers of attorney or other
instruments as may be reasonable and necessary or desirable in
connection with the performance by the Custodian or any Subcustodian
of their respective obligations to such Fund under this Agreement or
any applicable subcustodian agreement with respect to such Fund,
provided that the exercise by the Custodian or any Subcustodian of any
such rights shall in all events be in compliance with the terms of
this Agreement.
(b) Actions by Custodian. Upon receipt of Proper Instructions, the
Custodian shall execute and deliver to each applicable Fund or to such
other parties as such Fund(s) may designate in such Proper
Instructions, all such documents, instruments or agreements as may be
reasonable and necessary or desirable in order to effectuate any of
the transactions contemplated hereby.
Section 9.02. Representative Capacity; Nonrecourse Obligations. A
COPY OF THE DECLARATION OF TRUST OR OTHER ORGANIZATIONAL DOCUMENT OF
EACH FUND IS ON FILE WITH THE SECRETARY OF THE STATE OF THE FUND'S
FORMATION, AND NOTICE IS HEREBY GIVEN THAT THIS AGREEMENT IS NOT
EXECUTED ON BEHALF OF THE TRUSTEES OF ANY FUND AS INDIVIDUALS, AND THE
OBLIGATIONS OF THIS AGREEMENT ARE NOT BINDING UPON ANY OF THE
TRUSTEES, OFFICERS, SHAREHOLDERS OR PARTNERS OF ANY FUND INDIVIDUALLY,
BUT ARE BINDING ONLY UPON THE ASSETS AND PROPERTY OF EACH FUND'S
RESPECTIVE PORTFOLIOS. THE CUSTODIAN AGREES THAT NO SHAREHOLDER,
TRUSTEE, OFFICER OR PARTNER OF ANY FUND MAY BE HELD PERSONALLY LIABLE
OR RESPONSIBLE FOR ANY OBLIGATIONS OF ANY FUND ARISING OUT OF THIS
AGREEMENT.
Section 9.03. Several Obligations of the Funds and the Portfolios.
WITH RESPECT TO ANY OBLIGATIONS OF A FUND ON BEHALF OF ANY OF ITS
PORTFOLIOS ARISING OUT OF THIS AGREEMENT, INCLUDING, WITHOUT
LIMITATION, THE OBLIGATIONS ARISING UNDER SECTIONS 2.28, 5.03, 5.05
and ARTICLE VI HEREOF, THE CUSTODIAN SHALL LOOK FOR PAYMENT OR
SATISFACTION OF ANY OBLIGATION SOLELY TO THE ASSETS AND PROPERTY OF
THE PORTFOLIO TO WHICH SUCH OBLIGATION RELATES AS THOUGH EACH FUND HAD
SEPARATELY CONTRACTED WITH THE CUSTODIAN BY SEPARATE WRITTEN
INSTRUMENT WITH RESPECT TO EACH OF ITS PORTFOLIOS.
Section 9.04. Representations and Warranties.
(a) Representations and Warranties of Each Fund. Each Fund hereby
severally and not jointly represents and warrants that each of the
following shall be true, correct and complete with respect to each
Fund at all times during the term of this Agreement: (i) the Fund is
duly organized under the laws of its jurisdiction of organization and
is registered as an open-end management investment company under the
1940 Act; and (ii) the execution, delivery and performance by the Fund
of this Agreement are (w) within its power, (x) have been duly
authorized by all necessary action, and (y) will not (A) contribute to
or result in a breach of or default under or conflict with any
existing law, order, regulation or ruling of any governmental or
regulatory agency or authority, or (B) violate any provision of the
Fund's corporate charter, Declaration of Trust or other organizational
document, or bylaws, or any amendment thereof or any provision of its
most recent Prospectus or Statement of Additional Information.
(b) Representations and Warranties of the Custodian. The Custodian
hereby represents and warrants to each Fund that each of the following
shall be true, correct and complete at all times during the term of
this Agreement: (i) the Custodian is duly organized under the laws of
its jurisdiction of organization and qualifies to act as a custodian
to open-end management investment companies under the provisions of
the 1940 Act; and (ii) the execution, delivery and performance by the
Custodian of this Agreement are (w) within its power, (x) have been
duly authorized by all necessary action, and (y) will not (A)
contribute to or result in a breach of or default under or conflict
with any existing law, order, regulation or ruling of any governmental
or regulatory agency or authority, or (B) violate any provision of the
Custodian's corporate charter, or other organizational document, or
bylaws, or any amendment thereof.
Section 9.05. Entire Agreement. This Agreement constitutes the
entire understanding and agreement of the Fund, on the one hand, and
the Custodian, on the other, with respect to the subject matter hereof
and accordingly, supersedes as of the effective date of this Agreement
any custodian agreement heretofore in effect between each Fund and the
Custodian.
Section 9.06. Waivers and Amendments. No provision of this
Agreement may be waived, amended or terminated except by a statement
in writing signed by the party against which enforcement of such
waiver, amendment or termination is sought; provided, however: (a)
Appendix "A" listing the Portfolios of each Fund for which the
Custodian serves as custodian may be amended from time to time to add
one or more Portfolios for one or more Funds, by each applicable
Fund's execution and delivery to the Custodian of an amended Appendix
"A", and the execution of such amended Appendix by the Custodian, in
which case such amendment shall take effect immediately upon execution
by the Custodian; (b) Appendix "A" may be amended from time to time to
delete one or more Portfolios (but less than all of the Portfolios) of
one or more of the Funds, by each applicable Fund's execution and
delivery to the Custodian of an amended Appendix "A", in which case
such amendment shall take effect thirty (30) days after such delivery,
unless otherwise agreed by the Custodian and each applicable Fund in
writing; (c) Appendix "B" listing Foreign Subcustodians, Special
Subcustodians and Additional Custodians approved by any Fund may be
amended from time to time to add or delete one or more Foreign
Subcustodians, Special Subcustodians or Additional Custodians for a
Fund or Funds by each applicable Fund's execution and delivery to the
Custodian of an amended Appendix "B", in which case such amendment
shall take effect immediately upon execution by the Custodian; and (d)
Appendix "C" setting forth the procedures relating to the Custodian's
security interest with respect to each Fund may be amended only by an
instrument in writing executed by each applicable Fund and the
Custodian.
Section 9.07. Interpretation. In connection with the operation of
this Agreement, the Custodian and any Fund may agree in writing from
time to time on such provisions interpretative of or in addition to
the provisions of this Agreement with respect to such Fund as may in
their joint opinion be consistent with the general tenor of this
Agreement. No interpretative or additional provisions made as
provided in the preceding sentence shall be deemed to be an amendment
of this Agreement or affect any other Fund.
Section 9.08. Captions. Headings contained in this Agreement, which
are included as convenient references only, shall have no bearing upon
the interpretation of the terms of the Agreement or the obligations of
the parties hereto.
Section 9.09. Governing Law. Insofar as any question or dispute may
arise in connection with the custodianship of foreign securities
pursuant to an agreement with a Foreign Subcustodian that is governed
by the laws of the State of New York, the provisions of this Agreement
shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the
State of New York, provided that in all other instances this Agreement
shall be construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the
Commonwealth of Massachusetts, in each case without giving effect to
principles of conflicts of law.
Section 9.10. Notices. Except in the case of Proper Instructions or
Special Instructions, notices and other writings contemplated by this
Agreement shall be delivered by hand or by facsimile transmission
(provided that in the case of delivery by facsimile transmission,
notice shall also be mailed postage prepaid to the parties at the
following addresses:
(a) If to any Fund:
c/o Fidelity Management & Research Company
82 Devonshire Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02109
Attn: Treasurer of the Fidelity Funds
Telephone: (617) 563-7000
Telefax: (617) 476-4195
(b) If to the Custodian:
Brown Brothers Harriman & Company
40 Water Street
Boston, Massachusetts 02109
Attn: W. Casey Gildea, Assistant Manager
Telephone: (617) 772-1330
Telefax: (617) 772-2263
or to such other address as a Fund or the Custodian may have
designated in writing to the other.
Section 9.11. Assignment. This Agreement shall be binding on and
shall inure to the benefit of each Fund severally and the Custodian
and their respective successors and assigns, provided that, subject to
the provisions of Section 7.01 hereof, neither the Custodian nor any
Fund may assign this Agreement or any of its rights or obligations
hereunder without the prior written consent of the other party.
Section 9.12. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any
number of counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original.
With respect to each Fund, this Agreement shall become effective when
one or more counterparts have been signed and delivered by such Fund
and the Custodian.
Section 9.13. Confidentiality; Survival of Obligations. The parties
hereto agree that each shall treat confidentially the terms and
conditions of this Agreement and all information provided by each
party to the other regarding its business and operations. All
confidential information provided by a party hereto shall be used by
any other party hereto solely for the purpose of rendering services
pursuant to this Agreement and, except as may be required in carrying
out this Agreement, shall not be disclosed to any third party without
the prior consent of such providing party. The foregoing shall not be
applicable to any information that is publicly available when provided
or thereafter becomes publicly available other than through a breach
of this Agreement, or that is required to be disclosed by any bank
examiner of the Custodian or any Subcustodian, any auditor of the
parties hereto, by judicial or administrative process or otherwise by
applicable law or regulation. The provisions of this Section 9.13 and
Sections 9.01, 9.02, 9.03, 9.09, Section 2.28, Section 3.04, Section
7.01, Article V and Article VI hereof and any other rights or
obligations incurred or accrued by any party hereto prior to
termination of this Agreement shall survive any termination of this
Agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the parties has caused this Agreement to
be executed in its name and behalf on the day and year first above
written.
Each of the Investment Companies Listed on Brown Brothers Harriman &
Company
Appendix "A" Attached Hereto, on Behalf
of each of Their Respective Portfolios
By: ______________________ By: _______________________
Name: ______________________ Name: _______________________
Title: ______________________ Title: _______________________
FORM OF
Appendix "C" to the
Custodian Agreement
Between
Each of the Investment Companies
Listed on Appendix "A" Thereto
And
BROWN BROTHERS HARRIMAN & COMPANY
Dated as of SEPTEMBER 1, 1994
PROCEDURES RELATING TO CUSTODIAN'S SECURITY INTEREST
As security for any Overdrafts (as defined in the Custodian
Agreement) of any Portfolio, the applicable Fund, on behalf of such
Portfolio, shall pledge, assign and grant to the Custodian a security
interest in Collateral (as hereinafter defined), under the terms,
circumstances and conditions set forth in this Appendix "C".
Section 1. Defined Terms. As used in this Appendix "C" the
following terms shall have the following respective meanings:
(a) "Business Day" shall mean any day that is not a Saturday, a
Sunday or a day on which the Custodian is closed for business.
(b) "Collateral" shall mean, with respect to any Portfolio,
securities held by the Custodian on behalf of the Portfolio having a
fair market value (as determined in accordance with the procedures set
forth in the prospectus for the Portfolio) equal to the aggregate of
all Overdraft Obligations of such Portfolio: (i) identified in any
Pledge Certificate executed on behalf of such Portfolio; or (ii)
designated by the Custodian for such Portfolio pursuant to Section 3
of this Appendix C. Such securities shall consist of marketable
securities held by the Custodian on behalf of such Portfolio or, if no
such marketable securities are held by the Custodian on behalf of such
Portfolio, such other securities designated by the applicable Fund in
the applicable Pledge Certificate or by the Custodian pursuant to
Section 3 of this Appendix C.
(c) "Overdraft Obligations" shall mean, with respect to any
Portfolio, the amount of any outstanding Overdraft(s) provided by the
Custodian to such Portfolio together with all accrued interest
thereon.
(d) "Pledge Certificate" shall mean a Pledge Certificate in the form
attached to this Appendix "C" as Schedule 1 executed by a duly
authorized officer of the applicable Fund and delivered by such Fund
to the Custodian by facsimile transmission or in such other manner as
the applicable Fund and the Custodian may agree in writing.
(e) "Release Certificate" shall mean a Release Certificate in the
form attached to this Appendix "C" as Schedule 2 executed by a duly
authorized officer of the Custodian and delivered by the Custodian to
the applicable Fund by facsimile transmission or in such other manner
as such Fund and the Custodian may agree in writing.
(f) "Written Notice" shall mean a written notice executed by a duly
authorized officer of the party delivering the notice and delivered by
facsimile transmission or in such other manner as the applicable Fund
and the Custodian shall agree in writing.
Section 2. Pledge of Collateral. To the extent that any Overdraft
Obligations of a Portfolio are not satisfied by the close of business
on the first Business Day following the Business Day on which the
applicable Fund receives Written Notice requesting security for such
Overdraft Obligation and stating the amount of such Overdraft
Obligation, the applicable Fund, on behalf of such Portfolio, shall
pledge, assign and grant to the Custodian a first priority security
interest, by delivering to the Custodian, a Pledge Certificate
executed by such Fund on behalf of such Portfolio describing the
applicable Collateral. Such Written Notice may, in the discretion of
the Custodian, be included within or accompany the Overdraft Notice
relating to the applicable Overdraft Obligations.
Section 3. Failure to Pledge Collateral. In the event that the
applicable Fund shall fail: (a) to pay, on behalf of the applicable
Portfolio, the Overdraft Obligation described in such Written Notice;
(b) to deliver to the Custodian a Pledge Certificate pursuant to
Section 2; or (c) to identify substitute securities pursuant to
Section 6 upon the sale or maturity of any securities identified as
Collateral, the Custodian may, by Written Notice to the applicable
Fund specify Collateral which shall secure the applicable Overdraft
Obligation. Such Fund, on behalf of any applicable Portfolio, hereby
pledges, assigns and grants to the Custodian a first priority security
interest in any and all Collateral specified in such Written Notice;
provided that such pledge, assignment and grant of security shall be
deemed to be effective only upon receipt by the applicable Fund of
such Written Notice.
Section 4. Delivery of Additional Collateral. If at any time the
Custodian shall notify a Fund by Written Notice that the fair market
value of the Collateral securing any Overdraft Obligation of one of
such Fund's Portfolios is less than the amount of such Overdraft
Obligation, such Fund, on behalf of the applicable Portfolio, shall
deliver to the Custodian, within one (1) Business Day following the
Fund's receipt of such Written Notice, an additional Pledge
Certificate describing additional Collateral. If such Fund shall fail
to deliver such additional Pledge Certificate, the Custodian may
specify Collateral which shall secure the unsecured amount of the
applicable Overdraft Obligation in accordance with Section 3 of this
Appendix C.
Section 5. Release of Collateral. Upon payment by a Fund, on behalf
of one of its Portfolios, of any Overdraft Obligation secured by the
pledge of Collateral, the Custodian shall promptly deliver to such
Fund a Release Certificate pursuant to which the Custodian shall
release Collateral from the lien under the applicable Pledge
Certificate or Written Notice pursuant to Section 3 having a fair
market value equal to the amount paid by such Fund on account of such
Overdraft Obligation. In addition, if at any time a Fund shall notify
the Custodian by Written Notice that such Fund desires that specified
Collateral be released and: (a) that the fair market value of the
Collateral securing any Overdraft Obligation shall exceed the amount
of such Overdraft Obligation; or (b) that the Fund has delivered a
Pledge Certificate substituting Collateral for such Overdraft
Obligation, the Custodian shall deliver to such Fund, within one (1)
Business Day following the Custodian's receipt of such Written Notice,
a Release Certificate relating to the Collateral specified in such
Written Notice.
Section 6. Substitution of Collateral. A Fund may substitute
securities for any securities identified as Collateral by delivery to
the Custodian of a Pledge Certificate executed by such Fund on behalf
of the applicable Portfolio, indicating the securities pledged as
Collateral.
Section 7. Security for Individual Portfolios' Overdraft
Obligations. The pledge of Collateral by a Fund on behalf of any of
its individual Portfolios shall secure only the Overdraft Obligations
of such Portfolio. In no event shall the pledge of Collateral by one
of a Fund's Portfolios be deemed or considered to be security for the
Overdraft Obligations of any other Portfolio of such Fund or of any
other Fund.
Section 8. Custodian's Remedies. Upon (a) a Fund's failure to pay
any Overdraft Obligation of an applicable Portfolio within thirty (30)
days after receipt by such Fund of a Written Notice demanding security
therefore, and (b) one (1) Business Day's prior Written Notice to such
Fund, the Custodian may elect to enforce its security interest in the
Collateral securing such Overdraft Obligation, by taking title to (at
the then prevailing fair market value), or selling in a commercially
reasonable manner, so much of the Collateral as shall be required to
pay such Overdraft Obligation in full. Notwithstanding the provisions
of any applicable law, including, without limitation, the Uniform
Commercial Code, the remedy set forth in the preceding sentence shall
be the only right or remedy to which the Custodian is entitled with
respect to the pledge and security interest granted pursuant to any
Pledge Certificate or Section 3. Without limiting the foregoing, the
Custodian hereby waives and relinquishes all contractual and common
law rights of set off to which it may now or hereafter be or become
entitled with respect to any obligations of any Fund to the Custodian
arising under this Appendix "C" to the Agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the parties has caused this Appendix to
be executed in its name and behalf on the day and year first above
written.
Each of the Investment Companies Listed on BROWN BROTHERS HARRIMAN &
Schedule "A" to the Custodian Agreement, on COMPANY
Behalf of Each of Their Respective Portfolios
By: ______________________ By: ______________________
Name: ______________________ Name: ______________________
Title: ______________________ Title: ______________________
SCHEDULE 1
TO
APPENDIX "C"
PLEDGE CERTIFICATE
This Pledge Certificate is delivered pursuant to the Custodian
Agreement dated as of [ ] (the "Agreement"), between [
] (the "Fund") and [ ] (the "Custodian"). Capitalized terms
used herein without definition shall have the respective meanings
ascribed to them in the Agreement. Pursuant to [Section 2 or Section
4] of Appendix "C" attached to the Agreement, the Fund, on behalf of [
] (the "Portfolio"), hereby pledges, assigns and grants to the
Custodian a first priority security interest in the securities listed
on Exhibit "A" attached to this Pledge Certificate (collectively, the
"Pledged Securities"). Upon delivery of this Pledge Certificate, the
Pledged Securities shall constitute Collateral, and shall secure all
Overdraft Obligations of the Portfolio described in that certain
Written Notice dated , 19 , delivered by the Custodian to
the Fund. The pledge, assignment and grant of security in the Pledged
Securities hereunder shall be subject in all respect to the terms and
conditions of the Agreement, including, without limitation, Sections 7
and 8 of Appendix "C" attached thereto.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Fund has caused this Pledge Certificate to be
executed in its name, on behalf of the Portfolio this day of
19 .
[FUND], on Behalf of [Portfolio]
By: ___________________
Name: ___________________
Title: ___________________
EXHIBIT "A"
TO
PLEDGE CERTIFICATE
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Type of Certificate/CUSIP Number of
Issuer Security Numbers Shares
</TABLE>
SCHEDULE 2
TO
APPENDIX "C"
RELEASE CERTIFICATE
This Release Certificate is delivered pursuant to the Custodian
Agreement dated as of [ ] (the "Agreement"), between [
] (the "Fund") and [ ] (the "Custodian"). Capitalized terms
used herein without definition shall have the respective meanings
ascribed to them in the Agreement. Pursuant to Section 5 of Appendix
"C" attached to the Agreement, the Custodian hereby releases the
securities listed on Exhibit "A" attached to this Release Certificate
from the lien under the [Pledge Certificate dated ___________, 19 or
the Written Notice delivered pursuant to Section 3 of Appendix "C"
dated _________, 19 ].
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Custodian has caused this Release Certificate
to be executed in its name and on its behalf this day of 19 .
BROWN BROTHERS HARRIMAN & COMPANY
By: _____________________
Name: _____________________
Title: _____________________
EXHIBIT "A"
TO
RELEASE CERTIFICATE
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C> <C> <C>
Type of Certificate/CUSIP Number of
Issuer Security Numbers Shares
</TABLE>
Exhibit 8(j)
FORM OF
APPENDIX "A"
TO
CUSTODIAN AGREEMENT
BETWEEN
Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. and each of the following Investment
Companies
Dated as of June 1 1998
The following is a list of Funds and their respective Portfolios for
which the Custodian shall serve under a Custodian Agreement dated as
of September 1, 1994:
<TABLE>
<S> <C> <C>
Fund Portfolio Effective as of:
Fidelity Advisor Series I Fidelity Advisor Large Cap Fund January 18, 1996
Fidelity Advisor Mid Cap Fund January 18, 1996
Fidelity Advisor Growth Opportunities Fund September 1, 1994
Fidelity Advisor Strategic Opportunities Fund September 1, 1994
Fidelity Advisor Series VII Fidelity Advisor Natural Resources Fund September 1, 1997
Fidelity Advisor Series VIII Fidelity Advisor International Capital Appreciation Fund October 31, 1997
Fidelity Capital Trust Fidelity Capital Appreciation Fund September 1, 1994
Fidelity Stock Selector September 1, 1994
Fidelity Value Fund September 1, 1994
Fidelity Commonwealth Trust Fidelity Small Cap Stock Fund March 2, 1998
Fidelity Large Cap Stock Fund May 8, 1995
Fidelity Small Cap Selector March 2, 1998
Fidelity Congress Street Fund Fidelity Congress Street Fund September 1, 1994
Fidelity Contrafund Fidelity Contrafund September 1, 1994
Fidelity Devonshire Trust Fidelity Real Estate Investment Portfolio September 1, 1994
Fidelity Utilities Fund September 1, 1994
Fidelity Exchange Fund Fidelity Exchange Fund September 1, 1994
Fidelity Financial Trust Fidelity Convertible Securities Fund September 1, 1994
Fidelity Retirement Growth Fund September 1, 1994
Fidelity Hastings Street Trust Fidelity Fifty September 1, 1994
Fidelity Contrafund II March 19, 1998
*Fidelity Select Portfolios: American Gold Portfolio has been renamed to Fidelity
Select Portfolios: Gold Portfolio effective 6/1/98.
Fidelity Investment Trust Fidelity Canada Fund September 1, 1994
Fidelity France Fund September 14, 1995
Fidelity Germany Fund September 14, 1995
Fidelity Hong Kong & China Fund September 14, 1995
Fidelity Japan Small Companies Fund September 14, 1995
Fidelity Latin America Fund September 1, 1994
Fidelity Nordic Fund September 14, 1995
Fidelity United Kingdom Fund September 14, 1995
Fidelity Mt. Vernon Street Trust Fidelity Emerging Growth Fund September 1, 1994
Fidelity Growth Company Fund September 1, 1994
Fidelity Puritan Trust Fidelity Balanced Fund September 1, 1994
Fidelity Global Balanced Fund September 1, 1994
Fidelity Low-Priced Stock Fund September 1, 1994
Fidelity Securities Fund Fidelity Blue Chip Growth Fund September 1, 1994
Fidelity Dividend Growth Fund September 1, 1994
Fidelity OTC Portfolio September 1, 1994
Fidelity Select Portfolios Air Transportation Portfolio September 1, 1994
American Gold Portfolio September 1, 1994
Automotive Portfolio September 1, 1994
Biotechnology Portfolio September 1, 1994
Brokerage and Investment Management Portfolio September 1, 1994
Business Services and Outsourcing Portfolio December 18, 1997
Chemicals Portfolio September 1, 1994
Computers Portfolio September 1, 1994
Construction and Housing Portfolio September 1, 1994
Consumer Industries Portfolio September 1, 1994
Cyclical Industries Portfolio January 16, 1997
Defense and Aerospace Portfolio September 1, 1994
Developing Communications Portfolio September 1, 1994
Electronics Portfolio September 1, 1994
Energy Portfolio September 1, 1994
Energy Service Portfolio September 1, 1994
Environmental Services Portfolio September 1, 1994
Financial Services Portfolio September 1, 1994
Food and Agriculture Portfolio September 1, 1994
Health Care Portfolio September 1, 1994
Home Finance Portfolio September 1, 1994
Industrial Equipment Portfolio September 1, 1994
Industrial Materials Portfolio September 1, 1994
Insurance Portfolio September 1, 1994
Leisure Portfolio September 1, 1994
Medical Delivery Portfolio September 1, 1994
Medical Equipment and Systems Portfolio December 18, 1997
Multimedia Portfolio September 1, 1994
Natural Gas Portfolio September 1, 1994
Natural Resources Portfolio January 16, 1997
Natural Gas Portfolio September 1, 1994
Paper and Forest Products Portfolio September 1, 1994
Paper and Forest Products Portfolio September 1, 1994
Precious Metals and Minerals Portfolio September 1, 1994
Regional Banks Portfolio September 1, 1994
Retailing Portfolio September 1, 1994
Software and Computer Service Portfolio September 1, 1994
Technology Portfolio September 1, 1994
Telecommunications Portfolio September 1, 1994
Transportation Portfolio September 1, 1994
Utilities Growth Portfolio September 1, 1994
Variable Insurance Products Fund Growth Portfolio September 1, 1994
Variable Insurance Products Fund II Contrafund Portfolio September 1, 1994
Variable Insurance Products Fund III Growth Opportunities Portfolio September 1, 1994
</TABLE>
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, each of the parties hereto has caused this
Appendix to be executed in its name and behalf as of the day and year
first set forth opposite each such Portfolio.
Each of the Investment Companies Brown Brothers Harriman & Co.
Listed on this Appendix "a", on behalf
of each of their respective portfolios
By: ________________________ By: ________________________
Name: ________________________ Name: ________________________
Title: ________________________ Title: ________________________
Exhibit 8(k)
FORM OF
Appendix "B"
To
Custodian Agreement
Between
Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. and Each of the Investment
Companies Listed on Appendix "A" thereto
Dated as of June 18, 1998
The following is a list of Additional Custodians, Special
Subcustodians and Foreign Subcustodians under the Custodian Agreement
dated as of September 1, 1994 (the "Custodian Agreement"):
A. Additional Custodians
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C>
CUSTODIAN PURPOSE
Bank of New York FICASH
FITERM
B. Special Subcustodians:
SUBCUSTODIAN PURPOSE
Bank of New York FICASH
</TABLE>
C. Foreign Subcustodians:
<TABLE>
<CAPTION>
<S> <C> <C>
COUNTRY FOREIGN SUBCUSTODIAN DEPOSITORY
Argentina Citibank, N.A., Buenos Aires Caja de Valores, S.A.;
(Citibank, N.A., New York Agt. 7/16/81 Central de Registracion y
New York Agreement Amendment 8/31/90) Liquidacion de Instrumentos de
Endeudamiento Publico (CRYL)
BankBoston, N.A., Buenos Aires
(First Nat. Bank of Boston Agreement 1/15/88
Omnibus Amendment 2/22/94)
Australia National Australia Bank Ltd., Melbourne Austraclear Limited;
(National Australia Bank Agt. 5/1/85 Reserve Bank Information and
Agreement Amendment 2/13/92 Transfer System (RITS)
Omnibus Amendment 11/22/93)
Austria Creditanstalt, AG, Vienna Oesterreichische Kontrollbank
(Creditanstalt Bankverein Agreement 12/18/89 Aktiengesellschaft (OEKB)
Omnibus Amendment 1/17/94)
Bahrain British Bank of the Middle East, Manama None
Bangladesh Standard Chartered Bank, Dhaka None
(Standard Chartered Bank Agreement 2/18/92)
Belgium Banque Bruxelles Lambert, Brussels Caisse Interprofessionnelle de Depot
(Banque Bruxelles Lambert Agreement 11/15/90 et Virements de Titres (CIK);
Omnibus Amendment 3/1/94) Banque Nationale de Belgique (BNB)
Bermuda Bank of N.T. Butterfield & Son Ltd., Hamilton
Botswana Stanbic Bank Botswana, Limited, Gaborone
Brazil BankBoston, N.A., Sao Paulo Sao Paulo Stock Exchange
(First National Bank of Boston Agreement 1/5/88 (BOVESPA);
Omnibus Amendment 2/22/94) Rio de Janeiro Exchange (BVRJ);
Camara de Liquidacao e Custodia
S.A. (CLC)
Canada Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce, Toronto Canadian Depository for Securities,
(Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce Ltd., (CDS)
Agreement 9/9/88
Omnibus Amendment 12/1/93)
Royal Bank of Canada, Toronto Bank of Canada
Proposed Agreement 2/23/96
Chile Citibank, N.A., Santiago Deposito Central de Valores, S.A.
(Citibank N.A., New York Agreement 7/16/81 (DCV)
New York Agreement Amendment 8/31/90)
China-Shanghai Standard Chartered Bank, Shanghai Shanghai Securities Central Clearing
(Standard Chartered Bank Agreement 2/18/92) & Registration Corporation
(SSCCRC)
China-Shenzhen Standard Chartered Bank, Shenzhen Shenzhen Securities Registration
(Standard Chartered Bank Agreement 2/18/92) Corp. Ltd., (SSRC)
Colombia Cititrust Colombia , S.A., Sociedad Fiduciaria, Bogota Deposito Central de Valores (DCV)
(Citibank N.A., New York Agreement 7/16/81
New York Agreement Amendment 8/31/90 Deposito Centralizado de Valores
Citibank N.A. Subsidiary Amendment 10/19/95 (DECEVAL)
Citibank N.A./Cititrust Colombia Agreement 12/2/91)
Czech Republic Citibank a.s., Praha, an indirect subsidiary of Stredisko Cennych Papiru (SCP)
Citibank, N.A. Czech National Bank
Denmark Den Danske Bank, Copenhagen Vaerdipapircentralen - VP Center
(Den Danske Bank Agreement 1/1/89
Omnibus Amendment 12/1/93)
Ecuador Citibank, N.A., Quito None
(Citibank, N.A. New York Agreement 7/16/81
New York Agreement Amendment 8/31/90
Citibank, Quito Side Letter 7/3/95)
Egypt Citibank, N.A., Cairo Misr for Clearing, Settlement
(Citibank, N.A. New York Agreement 7/16/81 and Depository
New York Agreement Amendment 8/31/90)
Finland Merita Bank Ltd., Helsinki Finnish Central Securities
Depository Ltd.
France Banque Paribas, Paris SICOVAM;
Agreement 4/2/93) Banque de France
Germany Dresdner Bank AG, Frankfurt Deutsche Borse Clearing (DBC)
(Dresdner Bank Agreement 10/6/95)
Ghana Merchant Bank (Ghana) Limited, Accra None
Greece Citibank, N.A., Athens The Central Securities Depository,
(Citibank N.A., New York Agreement 7/16/81 Apothetirion Titlon A.E.
New York Agreement Amendment 8/31/90)
The Bank of Greece
Hong Kong The Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Central Clearing and
Corp., Ltd., Hong Kong Settlement System (CCASS)
(Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corp. Agt. 4/19/91
Omnibus Supplement 12/29/93)
Hungary Citibank Budapest, Rt. Central Depository and Clearing
(Citibank N.A., New York Agreement 7/16/81 House (Budapest) Ltd.,
New York Agreement Amendment 8/31/90 (KELER Ltd.)
Citibank N.A. Subsidiary Amendment 10/19/95
Citibank N.A./Citibank Budapest Agmt. 1/24/92
(amended 6/23/92 and 9/29/92))
India Citibank, N.A., Mumbai National Securities Depository Limited
(Citibank N.A., New York Agreement 7/16/81
New York Agreement Amendment 8/31/90
Citibank, Mumbai Amendment 11/17/93)
Standard Chartered Bank, Mumbai
(Standard Chartered Bank Agreement 2/18/92
SCB, Mumbai Annexure and Side Letter 7/18/94)
Indonesia Citibank, N.A., Jakarta None
(Citibank N.A., New York Agreement 7/16/81
New York Agreement Amendment 8/31/90)
Ireland Allied Irish Banks, plc., Dublin Gilt Settlement Office (GSO)
(Allied Irish Banks Agreement 1/10/89
Omnibus Amendment 4/8/94) CREST
Israel Bank Hapoalim, B.M. Tel-Aviv Stock Exchange
(Bank Hapoalim Agreement 8/27/92) (TASE) Clearinghouse Ltd.
Italy Banca Commerciale Italiana, Milan Monte Titoli S.p.A.
(Banca Commerciale Italiana Agreement 5/8/89
Agreement Amendment 10/8/93 Banca D'Italia
Omnibus Amendment 12/14/93)
Japan The Bank of Tokyo-Mitsubishi, Ltd., Japan Securities Depository Center.,
Tokyo (JASDEC); Bank of Japan
Jordan Arab Bank, plc, Amman None
(Arab Bank Agreement 4/5/95
Kenya Stanbic Bank Kenya, Limited, Nairobi None
Lebanon British Bank of the Middle East, Beirut Midclear
Malaysia Hongkong Bank Malaysia Berhad, Malaysian Central Depository Sdn.
Kuala Lumpur Bhd (MCD)
(Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corp. Agt. 4/19/91
Omnibus Supplement 12/29/93
Malaysia Subsidiary Supplement 5/23/94) Bank Negara Malaysia
Mauritius Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corp., Ltd., Central Depository & Settlement Co.,
Port Louis Ltd.
Mexico Citibank Mexico, S.A., Mexico City Institucion para el Deposito de
(Citibank N.A., New York Agreement 7/16/81 Valores- S.D. INDEVAL, S.A. de
New York Agreement Amendment 8/31/90 C.V.
Citibank, Mexico, S.A. Amendment 2/7/95)
Banco de Mexico
Morocco Banque Marocaine du Commerce Exterieur, MAROCLEAR
Casablanca
(BMCE Agreement 7/6/94)
Namibia Standard Bank Namibia Ltd., Windhoek None
Netherlands ABN-AMRO, Bank N. V., Amsterdam Nederlands Centraal Instituut voor
(ABN-AMRO Agreement 12/19/88) (NECIGEF)/KAS Associatie N.V.
(KAS); De Nederlandsche Bank (DNB)
New Zealand National Australia Bank Ltd., Melbourne New Zealand Securities
(National Australia Bank Agreement 5/1/85 Depository Limited (NZCDS)
Agreement Amendment 2/13/92
Omnibus Amendment 11/22/93
New Zealand Addendum 3/7/89)
Norway Den norske Bank ASA, Oslo Verdipapirsentralen (VPS)
(Den norske Bank Agreement 11/16/94)
Oman British Bank of the Middle East, Muscat Muscat Securities Market
Pakistan Standard Chartered Bank, Karachi The Central Depository
(Standard Chartered Bank Agreement 2/18/92) Company of Pakistan (CDC)
Peru Citibank, N.A., Lima Caja de Valores (CAVAL)
(Citibank N.A., New York Agreement 7/16/81
New York Agreement Amendment 8/31/90)
Philippines Citibank, N.A., Manila The Philippines Central Depository,
(Citibank N.A., New York Agreement 7/16/81 Inc.; The Registry of Scripless
New York Agreement Amendment 8/31/90) Securities of the Bureau of the
Treasury Department of Finance
Poland Citibank Poland, S.A., Warsaw National Depository of Securities
(Citibank N.A., New York Agreement 7/16/81
New York Agreement Amendment 8/31/90 National Bank of Poland
Citibank Subsidiary Amendment 10/19/95
Citibank, N.A./Citibank Poland S.A. Agt. 11/6/92)
Bank Polska Kasa Opieki S.A., Warsaw
Portugal Banco Comercial Portuges, Lisboa Central de Valores Mobiliaros
(Interbolsa)
Russia Credit Suisse First Boston (Moscow), Ltd Rosvneshtorgbank (VTB)
Citibank T/O, Moscow Moscow Interbank Currency
Exchange Clearinghouse (MICEX)
National Depository Center
Singapore Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Central Depository Pte Ltd. (CDP)
Corp., Ltd., Singapore
(Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corp. Agt. 4/19/91
Omnibus Supplement 12/29/93)
Slovak Republic Internationale Nederlanden Bank N.V.(ING Bank Stredisko Cennych Papeirov (SCP)
N.V.), Amsterdam
National Bank of Slovakia
South Africa First National Bank of Southern Africa Ltd., The Central Depository (Pty) Ltd.
Johannesburg (CD)
(First National Bank of Southern Africa Agmt. 8/7/91)
South Korea Citibank, N.A., Seoul Korean Securities Depository (KSD)
(Citibank N.A., New York Agreement 7/16/81
New York Agreement Amendment 8/31/90
Citibank, Seoul Agreement Supplement 10/28/94)
Spain Banco Santander S.A., Madrid Servicio de Compensacion y
(Banco Santander Agreement 12/14/88) Liquidacion de Valores (SCLV)
Banco de Espana
Sri Lanka Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corp. Ltd., Central Depository System (Pvt)
Colombo Limited (CDS)
(Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corp. Agt. 4/19/91
Omnibus Supplement 12/29/93)
Swaziland Standard Bank Swaziland, Limited, Mbabane None
Sweden Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken, Stockholm Vardepapperscentralen VPC AB
(Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken Agreement 2/20/89
Omnibus Amendment 12/3/93)
Switzerland Swiss Bank Corporation, Basel Schweizerische Effekten - Giro A.G.
(Swiss Bank Corporation Agreement 3/1/94) (SEGA)
Taiwan Standard Chartered Bank, Taipei Taiwan Securities Central Depository
(Standard Chartered Bank Agmt. 2/18/92) Co. Ltd. (TSCD)
Thailand Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corp. Ltd., Thailand Securities Depository
Bangkok Company (TSD)
(Hongkong & Shanghai Banking Corp. Agmt. 4/19/91
Omnibus Amendment 12/29/93)
Transnational Cedel Bank Societe
Anonyme, Luxembourg
Euroclear Clearance System
Societe Cooperative, Belgium
Turkey Citibank, N.A., Istanbul Takas ve Saklama Bankasi A.S. (TvS)
(Citibank N.A., New York Agmt. 7/16/81
New York Agmt. Amendment 8/31/90) Central Bank of Turkey (CBT)
United Kingdom Lloyds Bank PLC, London Central Gilts Office (CGO);
CREST;
Central Money Markets Office
(CMO)
Uruguay BankBoston, N.A. Montevideo None
Venezuela Citibank, N.A., Caracas The Caja Venezolana de
(Citibank N.A., New York Agreement 7/16/81 Valores (CVV)
New York Agreement Amendment 8/31/90)
Zambia Stanbic Bank Zambia Ltd., Lusaka Lusaka Central Depository
Zimbabwe Stanbic Bank Zimbabwe Ltd., Harare None
Each of the Investment Companies Listed on
Appendix "A" to the Custodian Agreement,
on Behalf of Each of Their Respective
Portfolios
By:_______________________________
Name: _____________________________
Title: ______________________________
</TABLE>
Exhibit 15(g)
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE PLAN
Initial Class Shares
1. This Distribution and Service Plan (the "Plan"), when effective in
accordance with its terms, shall be the written plan contemplated by
Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the
"Act") for the original class of shares of Mid Cap Portfolio ("Initial
Class"), a class of shares of Mid Cap Portfolio (the "Fund"), a series
of Variable Insurance Products Fund III (the "Trust").
2. The Trust has entered into a General Distribution Agreement on
behalf of the Fund with Fidelity Distributors Corporation (the
"Distributor") under which the Distributor uses all reasonable
efforts, consistent with its other business, to secure purchasers for
the Fund's shares of beneficial interest ("Shares"). Under the
agreement, the Distributor pays the expenses of printing and
distributing any prospectuses, reports and other literature used by
the Distributor, advertising, and other promotional activities in
connection with the offering of Shares of the Fund for sale to the
public. It is recognized that Fidelity Management & Research Company
(the "Adviser") may use its management fee revenues as well as its
past profits or its resources from any other source, to make payments
to the Distributor with respect to any expenses incurred in connection
with the distribution of Initial Class Shares, including the
activities referred to above.
3. The Adviser directly, or through the Distributor, may, subject to
the approval of the Trustees, make payments to securities dealers and
other third parties who engage in the sale of Initial Class Shares or
who render shareholder support services, including but not limited to
providing office space, equipment and telephone facilities, answering
routine inquiries regarding the Fund, processing shareholder
transactions and providing such other shareholder services as the
Trust may reasonably request.
4. The Initial Class will not make separate payments as a result of
this Plan to the Adviser, Distributor or any other party, it being
recognized that the Fund presently pays, and will continue to pay, a
management fee to the Adviser. To the extent that any payments made
by the Fund to the Adviser, including payment of management fees,
should be deemed to be indirect financing of any activity primarily
intended to result in the sale of Initial Class Shares within the
meaning of Rule 12b-1, then such payments shall be deemed to be
authorized by this Plan.
5. This Plan shall become effective upon the first business day of
the month following approval by a vote of at least a "majority of the
outstanding voting securities" (as defined in the Act) of the Initial
Class, this plan having been approved by a vote of a majority of the
Trustees of the Trust, including a majority of the Trustees who are
not "interested persons" of the Trust (as defined in the Act) and who
have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of this
Plan or in any agreement related to the Plan (the "Independent
Trustees"), cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of
voting on this Plan.
6. This Plan shall, unless terminated as hereinafter provided, remain
in effect until April 30, 1999, and from year to year thereafter,
provided, however, that such continuance is subject to approval
annually by a vote of a majority of the Trustees of the Trust,
including a majority of the Independent Trustees, cast in person at a
meeting called for the purpose of voting on this Plan. This Plan may
be amended at any time by the Board of Trustees, provided that (a) any
amendment to authorize direct payments by the Initial Class to finance
any activity primarily intended to result in the sale of Initial Class
Shares, to increase materially the amount spent by the Initial Class
for distribution, or any amendment of the Management Contract to
increase the amount to be paid by the Fund thereunder shall be
effective only upon approval by a vote of a majority of the
outstanding voting securities of the Initial Class, in the case of
this Plan, or upon approval by a vote of a majority of the outstanding
voting securities of the Fund, in the case of the Management Contract,
and (b) any material amendments of this Plan shall be effective only
upon approval in the manner provided in the first sentence of this
paragraph 6.
7. This Plan may be terminated at any time, without the payment of
any penalty, by a vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees or by
a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the
Initial Class.
8. During the existence of this Plan, the Trust shall require the
Adviser and/or Distributor to provide the Trust, for review by the
Trustees, and the Trustees shall review, at least quarterly, a written
report of the amounts expended in connection with financing any
activity primarily intended to result in the sale of Initial Class
Shares (making estimates of such costs where necessary or desirable)
and the purposes for which such expenditures were made.
9. This Plan does not require the Adviser or Distributor to perform
any specific type or level of distribution activities or to incur any
specific level of expenses for activities primarily intended to result
in the sale of Initial Class Shares.
10. Consistent with the limitation of shareholder liability as set
forth in the Trust's Declaration of Trust, any obligation assumed by
Initial Class pursuant to this Plan and any agreement related to this
Plan shall be limited in all cases to Initial Class and its assets and
shall not constitute an obligation of any shareholder of the Trust or
any other class of the Fund, series of the Trust, or class of such
series.
11. If any provision of this Plan shall be held or made invalid by a
court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of the Plan
shall not be affected thereby.
Exhibit 15(h)
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE PLAN
Service Class Shares
1. This Distribution and Service Plan (the "Plan"), when effective in
accordance with its terms, shall be the written plan contemplated by
Securities and Exchange Commission Rule 12b-1 under the Investment
Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Act") for the Service Class
shares of Mid Cap Portfolio ("Service Class"), a class of shares of
Mid Cap Portfolio (the "Fund"), a portfolio of Variable Insurance
Products Fund III (the "Trust"). The Fund's shares of beneficial
interest ("Shares") may from time to time be offered to insurance
companies for allocation to certain of their separate accounts
established for the purpose of funding variable annuity contracts and
variable life insurance policies ("Variable Products").
2. The Trust has entered into a General Distribution Agreement on
behalf of the Fund with Fidelity Distributors Corporation (the
"Distributor"), under which the Distributor uses all reasonable
efforts, consistent with its other business, to secure purchasers of
the Fund's Shares. Such efforts may include, but neither are required
to include nor are limited to, the following: (1) formulation and
implementation of marketing and promotional activities, such as mail
promotions and television, radio, newspaper, magazine and other mass
media advertising; (2) preparation, printing and distribution of sales
literature; (3) preparation, printing and distribution of prospectuses
of the Fund and reports to recipients other than existing insurance
company shareholders; (4) obtaining such information, analyses and
reports with respect to marketing and promotional activities as the
Distributor may, from time to time, deem advisable; (5) making
payments to insurance companies and others engaged in the sale of
Shares or who engage in shareholder support services; and (6)
providing training, marketing and support to such insurance companies
and others with respect to Shares.
3. In consideration for the services provided and the expenses
incurred by the Distributor pursuant to the General Distribution
Agreement and paragraph 2 hereof, all with respect to Service Class
shares, Service Class shall pay to the Distributor a fee at the annual
rate of 0.25% (or such lesser amount as the Trustees may, from time to
time, determine) of the average daily net assets of Service Class
throughout the month. The determination of daily net assets shall be
made at the close of business each day throughout the month and
computed in the manner specified in the Fund's then current Prospectus
for the determination of the net asset value of the Fund's Service
Class Shares.
4. The Distributor may use all or any portion of the fee received
pursuant to this Plan to compensate insurance companies or others who
have engaged in the sale of Service Class Shares or in shareholder
support services pursuant to agreements with the Distributor, or to
pay any of the expenses associated with other activities authorized
under paragraph 2 hereof. Such services may include, but are not
limited to, the following: (1) answering questions about the Fund
from owners of Variable Products; (2) receiving and answering
correspondence from owners of Variable Products (including requests
for prospectuses and statements of additional information for the
Fund); (3) performing sub-accounting with respect to Variable Product
values allocated to the Fund; (4) preparing, printing and distributing
reports of values to Variable Product owners who have values allocated
to the Fund; (5) printing and distributing prospectuses, statements of
additional information, any supplements thereto, and shareholder
reports; (6) preparing, printing and distributing marketing materials
for Variable Products; (7) assisting customers in completing
applications for Variable Products and selecting underlying mutual
fund investment options; (8) preparing, printing and distributing
sub-account performance figures for sub-accounts investing in Fund
Shares; and (9) providing other reasonable assistance in connection
with the distribution of Fund Shares to insurers.
5. The Fund presently pays, and will continue to pay, a management
fee to Fidelity Management & Research Company (the "Adviser") pursuant
to a management agreement between the Fund and the Adviser (the
"Management Contract"). It is recognized that the Adviser may use its
management fee revenue, as well as its past profits or its resources
from any other source, to make payments to the Distributor with
respect to any expenses incurred in connection with the distribution
of Service Class Shares, including the activities referred to in
paragraph 2 hereof. To the extent that the payment of management fees
by the Fund to the Adviser should be deemed to be indirect financing
of any activity primarily intended to result in the sale of Service
Class Shares within the meaning of Rule 12b-1, then such payment shall
be deemed to be authorized by this Plan.
6. This Plan shall become effective upon approval by a vote of a
majority of the Trustees of the Trust, including a majority of the
Trustees who are not "interested persons" of the Trust (as defined in
the Act) and who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the
operation of this Plan or in any agreement related to the Plan (the
"Independent Trustees"), cast in person at a meeting called for the
purpose of voting on this Plan.
7. This Plan shall, unless terminated as hereinafter provided, remain
in effect until April 30, 1999, and from year to year thereafter;
provided, however, that such continuance is subject to approval
annually by a vote of a majority of the Trustees of the Trust,
including a majority of the Independent Trustees, cast in person at a
meeting called for the purpose of voting on this Plan. This Plan may
be amended at any time by the Board of Trustees, provided that (a) any
amendment to increase materially the fee provided for in paragraph 3
hereof or any amendment of the Management Contract to increase the
amount to be paid by the Fund thereunder shall be effective only upon
approval by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities
of Service Class, in the case of this Plan, or upon approval by a vote
of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund, in the
case of the Management Contract, and (b) any material amendment of
this Plan shall be effective only upon approval in the manner provided
in the first sentence of this paragraph 7.
8. This Plan may be terminated at any time, without the payment of
any penalty, by a vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees or by
a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of Service
Class.
9. During the existence of this Plan, the Trust shall require the
Adviser and/or the Distributor to provide the Trust, for review by the
Trustees, and the Trustees shall review, at least quarterly, a written
report of the amounts expended in connection with financing any
activity primarily intended to result in the sale of shares of Service
Class (making estimates of such costs where necessary or desirable)
and the purposes for which such expenditures were made.
10. This Plan does not require the Adviser or Distributor to perform
any specific type or level of distribution activities or to incur any
specific level of expenses for activities primarily intended to result
in the sale of Service Class Shares.
11. Consistent with the limitation of shareholder liability as set
forth in the Trust's Declaration of Trust, any obligation assumed by
Service Class pursuant to this Plan and any agreement related to this
Plan shall be limited in all cases to Service Class and its assets and
shall not constitute an obligation of any shareholder of the Trust or
of any other class of the Fund, series of the Trust, or class of such
series.
12. If any provision of the Plan shall be held or made invalid by a
court decision, statute, rule or otherwise, the remainder of the Plan
shall not be affected thereby.
